SECTION 9.0 CONSERVATION AND INCIDENTAL TAKE ESTIMATES

Transcription

1 SECTION 9.0 CONSERVATION AND ESTIMATES A Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) is required to disclose impacts likely to result from the proposed Taking of species for which coverage is requested, and the HCP must also incorporate measures to minimize and mitigate the impacts of such Takings. This section presents overall impact and Take estimates associated with implementation of the MSHCP Plan. This section also summarizes measures incorporated in the MSHCP to minimize and mitigate the identified impacts, including conservation estimates. These measures are described in greater detail throughout the MSHCP Plan. For example, Section 3.0 of this document describes the MSHCP Conservation Area that will be assembled to offset the impacts of the proposed Taking. Section 5.0 of this document describes proposed management and monitoring efforts within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Section 6.0 discusses implementation measures incorporated in the Plan to minimize impacts and Section 7.0 incorporates measures to minimize impacts associated with specific Covered Activities. Taken together, these measures represent minimization of identified impacts to the maximum extent practicable as summarized at the end of this section (Section 9.3). 9.1 OVERALL CONSERVATION AND IMPACT ESTIMATES OF VEGETATION COMMUNITIES This Section provides the overall conservation and impact estimates for Vegetation Communities with implementation of the MSHCP. Table 9-1 summarizes anticipated Conservation and loss of the Vegetation Communities within the Plan Area. In general, the MSHCP tends to protect more sensitive upland, wetland and forest Vegetation Communities that support a larger number of sensitive species in the Plan Area. Vegetation Communities may be considered within four broad categories: sensitive upland, wetland, forest and Agriculture. Sensitive upland communities include chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub. Wetland communities include meadows and marshes, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub/woodland/forest, cismontane alkali marsh and water. Forest communities include montane coniferous forest, and woodlands and forests. As shown in Table 9-1, implementation of the MSHCP generally would result in the greatest amount of protection for sensitive upland, wetland and forest communities because these Vegetation Communities generally tend to support a broader assemblage of sensitive species. FINAL MSHCP 9-1

2 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates TABLE 9-1 OVERALL VEGETATION COMMUNITY CONSERVATION AND IMPACT ESTIMATES Vegetation Community Total Acres in Plan Area* Total Acres Conserved Percent of Total Vegetation Community Acres Conserved in Plan Area Total Acres Potentially Affected* Percent of Total Vegetation Community Acres Potentially Affected in Plan Area Agriculture 169,480 20,020 12% 149,460 88% Chaparral 434, ,280 63% 162,670 37% Cismontane Alkali Marsh 1, % 1,220 97% Coastal Sage Scrub 156,450 81,720 52% 74,730 48% Desert Scrubs 14,570 4,990 34% 9,580 66% Grassland 154,140 42,820 28% 111,320 72% Meadows and Marshes 1, % % Montane Coniferous Forest 29,910 20,500 69% 9,410 31% Playas and Vernal Pools 7,910 6,750 85% 1,160 15% Riparian Scrub, Woodland, Forest 15,030 11,190 74% 3,840 26% Riversidean Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub 7,940 5,230 66% 2,710 34% Unknown 1,350 1,240 92% 110 8% Water 12,210 10,340 85% 1,870 15% Woodlands and Forests 34,300 23,500 69% 10,800 31% Developed or Disturbed Land 218,260 4,780 2% 213,480 98% T O T A L S 1,258, , ,870 * This includes the following acreages of each Vegetation Community on American Indian Lands that, while within the Plan Area, are not a part of the Plan: Agriculture: 1,110 Unknown: 10 Chaparral: 20,290 Water: 10 Cismontane Alkali Marsh: 1,110 Woodlands and Forests: 1,050 Coastal Sage Scrub: 3,760 Developed or Disturbed Land: 510 Desert Scrubs: 5,190 Grasslands: 7,260 Meadows and Marshes: 50 Montane Coniferous Forest: 10 Riparian Scrub, Woodland, Forest: 420 Riversidean Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub: 790 Anticipated impacts to coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, and FINAL MSHCP 9-2

3 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates meadows and marshes under the MSHCP Plan would result in a substantial reduction of sensitive Vegetation Communities within the Plan Area. Impacts to these Vegetation Communities would also have substantial adverse effects on listed, sensitive, or special status species that occupy and utilize these Vegetation Communities. For example, a substantial reduction of coastal sage scrub Habitat would adversely affect listed and other sensitive species, such as the coastal California gnatcatcher, through habitat modification. Inclusion of a large percentage of chaparral within the MSHCP Conservation Area would reduce identified impacts to this community given the extensive acreage and wide distribution of this Vegetation Community in the Plan Area and the relatively low number of listed species preferring this Vegetation Community within the Plan Area. A majority of the playas and vernal pools and riparian scrub/woodland/forest wetland communities would be conserved. In general, inclusion of the majority of the forest communities as Conserved Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area would minimize identified impacts to these communities. Although not a sensitive Vegetation Community, impacts to agricultural land would cause a substantial reduction of this community and would also adversely affect sensitive species that occupy or utilize agricultural lands including raptors and burrowing mammals. Anticipated impacts to Vegetation Communities may be contrasted with the anticipated Conservation shown in Table 9-1. As described in this Plan, Conservation would occur within an appropriately designed, managed and funded MSHCP Conservation Area consistent with overall and speciesspecific conservation objectives. 9.2 COVERED SPECIES This section provides the overall conservation and impact estimates for Covered Species under the MSHCP Plan. In addition to describing the Conservation Strategy developed for each of the Covered Species, maps and definitions are provided or referenced to facilitate review of the species Conservation and impact summary contained in this section. Comprehensive analyses of the Covered Species are located in the Species Accounts in Section B of the MSHCP Reference Document, Volume II. FINAL MSHCP 9-3

4 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates Conservation Strategy The MSHCP will implement a Conservation Strategy for each of the Covered Species. The Conservation Strategy for each species consists of four components: (1) a global biological goal, (2) global biological objectives, (3) species-specific biological objectives, and (4) management and monitoring activities (as referenced in global biological objective #11). (1) Global Biological Goal The following global biological goal applies to the Conservation of each of the MSHCP Covered Species: In the MSHCP Plan Area, Conserve Covered Species and their Habitats. (2) Global Biological Objectives The following global biological objectives shall be implemented for the benefit of the MSHCP Covered Species in order to achieve the global biological goal: 1. The MSHCP Conservation Area shall be approximately 500,000 acres in size and shall be comprised of approximately 347,000 acres of Public/Quasi-Public Lands and approximately 153,000 acres of Additional Reserve Lands. The MSHCP Conservation Area shall incorporate the Cores and Linkages as well as habitat distributions generally as presented in the MSHCP Conservation Area Description in Section A of the MSHCP Reference Document, Volume II. 2. Upland habitat quality within the MSHCP Conservation Area shall be maintained and managed generally in similar or better condition as at the time lands are conveyed to the MSHCP Conservation Area. 3. Wetland habitat quality within the MSHCP Conservation Area shall be maintained and managed generally in similar or better condition as at the time lands are conveyed to the MSHCP Conservation Area. FINAL MSHCP 9-4

5 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates 4. Best Management Practices (BMPs) shall be implemented in accordance with the guidelines presented in Appendix C of this document. For Flood Control projects, the existing NPDES general permit for storm water discharges associated with construction activities (Water Quality Order DWQ) and Section 1601 Streambed Alteration Agreement for flood control facilities maintenance shall be implemented. 5. New land uses adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area shall implement the Guidelines Pertaining to the Urban/Wildlands Interface presented in Section of this document. 6. The Maintenance of Existing Habitat Conditions Prior to Reserve Assembly policies presented in Section of this document shall be implemented to ensure that habitat quality within the Criteria Area generally remains in its existing condition prior to conveyance of lands to the MSHCP Conservation Area. 7. The Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policies presented in Section of this document shall be implemented for the benefit of the following species. Other species survey requirements associated with the MSHCP are documented in Section and of this document. A complete summary of all MSHCP species survey requirements is provided in Appendix E to this document. Amphibians: Birds: arroyo toad California red-legged frog coast range newt mountain yellow-legged frog western spadefoot American bittern bald eagle black-crowned night-heron black swift Cooper s hawk double-crested cormorant downy woodpecker least Bell s vireo FINAL MSHCP 9-5

6 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates Lincoln s sparrow MacGillivray's warbler Nashville warbler osprey peregrine falcon purple martin southwestern willow flycatcher tree swallow tricolored blackbird western yellow-billed cuckoo white-faced ibis white-tailed kite Wilson's warbler yellow-breasted chat yellow warbler Fish: Invertebrates: Plants: arroyo chub Santa Ana sucker Riverside fairy shrimp Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp vernal pool fairy shrimp Brand s phacelia California black walnut California muhly California Orcutt grass Coulter's goldfields Coulter's matilija poppy Davidson s saltscale Engelmann oak Fish s milkwort graceful tarplant lemon lily FINAL MSHCP 9-6

7 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates little mousetail Mojave tarplant mud nama ocellated Humboldt lily Orcutt s brodiaea Parish s brittlescale Parish's meadowfoam prostrate navarretia San Diego button-celery San Jacinto Valley crownscale San Miguel savory Santa Ana River woolly-star slender-horned spine flower smooth tarplant spreading navarretia thread-leaved brodiaea vernal barley Wright's trichocoronis Reptiles: western pond turtle 8. The Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species policies presented in Section of this document shall be implemented for the benefit of the following species. Other species survey requirements associated with the MSHCP are documented in Section and of this document A complete summary of all MSHCP species survey requirements is provided in Appendix E to this document. Brand s phacelia California Orcutt grass Hammitt s clay-cress Johnston s rock-cress many-stemmed dudleya Munz s mariposa lily Munz s onion FINAL MSHCP 9-7

8 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates San Diego ambrosia San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw San Miguel savory (Santa Rosa Plateau, Steele Rock) slender-horned spine flower spreading navarretia Wright s trichocoronis Yucaipa onion 9. The Additional Needs and Procedures policies presented in Section of this document shall be implemented for the benefit of the following species. Other species survey requirements associated with the MSHCP are documented in Section and of this document A complete summary of all MSHCP species survey requirements is provided in Appendix E to this document. Amphibians: Birds: Mammals: Plants: arroyo toad California red-legged frog mountain yellow-legged frog burrowing owl Aguanga kangaroo rat Los Angeles pocket mouse San Bernardino kangaroo rat Coulter s goldfields Davidson s saltscale heart-leaved pitcher sage little mousetail mud nama Nevin s barberry Parish s brittlescale prostrate navarretia round-leaved filaree San Jacinto Valley crownscale FINAL MSHCP 9-8

9 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates smooth tarplant thread-leaved brodiaea Vail Lake ceanothus 10. Covered Activities within the Criteria Area and Allowable Uses within the MSHCP Conservation Area shall be implemented in accordance with the siting, construction, design, operations and maintenance guidelines included in Section 7.0 of this document. 11. Monitoring and management activities shall be undertaken for each of the MSHCP Covered Species. Monitoring and management activities are described in Sections 5.2 and 5.3 of this document. (3) Species-Specific Biological Objectives Species-specific biological objectives have been established for each of the Covered Species in the MSHCP. Species-specific objectives are presented in each of the individual species accounts contained in Section B of the MSHCP Reference Document, Volume II and in Table 9-2 presented later in this section. The quantitative information presented in these accounts sets the overall parameters for species Conservation and Reserve Assembly, but should not be regarded as absolute. Some variation in the quantifications is anticipated as the Additional Reserve Lands are assembled to provide for flexibility in Reserve Assembly and to enable responses to changing conditions on the ground during the long-term Reserve Assembly process. Additionally, the species conservation levels are preliminary and may be modified based on future data collection efforts and as jointly agreed upon by the affected Permittees and the Wildlife Agencies. In the individual species accounts, each species has been assigned a group designation - Group 1, Group 2 or Group 3. These species groupings, which are based on the group definitions incorporated in the Natural Communities Conservation Planning Act, have been assigned to assist development of individual species objectives as well as monitoring and management requirements for the MSHCP. The three group definitions are as follows: Group 1 -- Take coverage is warranted based upon regional or landscape level considerations, such as healthy population levels, widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area, FINAL MSHCP 9-9

10 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates and life history characteristics that respond to habitat-scale conservation and management actions. Group 2 -- Take coverage is warranted based on regional or landscape level considerations with the addition of site-specific conservation and management requirements that are clearly identified in the MSHCP for species that are generally well-distributed, but that have Core Areas that require Conservation. Group 3 -- Take coverage is warranted based upon site specific considerations and the identification of specific conservation and management conditions for species within a narrowly defined Habitat or limited geographic area within the MSHCP Plan Area. (4) Monitoring and Management Activities Monitoring and management activities have been identified for each of the Covered Species as presented in Sections 5.2 and 5.3 of this document. Species Accounts Maps Maps have been prepared to accompany the species Conservation and Take summary presented in this section. These maps contain the following information: Figures 9-1, 9-2, and Place Name Maps -These maps show the locations of place names referenced in the individual species accounts. Three place names maps are provided: Geographic Place Names, Geologic Features, and Rivers, Creeks and Water Bodies. Figures 9-4, 9-5, 9-6, 9-7 and Criteria Area Maps - The MSHCP Criteria Area generally depicts the area from which Additional Reserve Lands will be assembled. The following maps have been prepared to depict the relationship of the Criteria Area to various analysis factors referenced in the species accounts (the data sources for the analysis factors shown on the maps are summarized in Sections 2.1.1, and 2.1.3): FINAL MSHCP 9-10

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19 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates! Criteria Area with Bioregions! Criteria Area with coastal sage scrub habitat quality! Criteria Area with mapped wetland resources! Criteria Area with sensitive soils! Criteria Area with elevations In addition to the figures noted above, two other maps will facilitate review of the species Conservation and Take summary presented in this section. Numbered and lettered Cores and Linkages, shown in Figure 3-2 (the Core and Linkage Map) and referenced in the individual species accounts, depict existing and proposed Cores and Linkages within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Numbered Area Plan Subunits, which are referenced in the individual species accounts when defining units of measurement for some individual species objectives, are depicted in Figure 3-3 (the Area Plan Subunits Map) and defined more specifically in Section 3.3 of this document. Definitions Where specific or unique definitions have been developed for use in the MSHCP and may be referenced in the species accounts, those definitions are provided following the Table of Contents in this document. For other biological terms, refer to the following suggested references: Lincoln, R.G. Boxshall, and P. Clark A Dictionary of Ecology, Evolution and Systematics, Second Edition, Cambridge University Press, 361. Pp. Steen, E.G Dictionary of Biology. Barnes & Noble Books, San Francisco, 640 pp. Species Conservation and Take Summary Anticipated Conservation and Take of Covered Species are summarized in Table 9-2 and presented in detail in Section B of the MSHCP Reference Document, Volume II. Table 9-2 includes the 146 species anticipated to be covered under the MSHCP Plan and is separated into nine columns: Species Name (common/scientific), Group Designation, Rationale for Group Designation, Species Objectives, Conservation Analysis Summary, Incidental Take, Requirements, Monitoring, and Management Activities Summary. In addition to providing the group designation, the rationale FINAL MSHCP 9-19

20 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates for the group designation is also provided for each of the Covered Species. The Species Objectives and Conservation Analysis Summary columns explain the measures that will be taken to conserve the Covered Species with implementation of the MSHCP Plan. The Incidental Take column summarizes the anticipated Take of Covered Species with implementation of the Plan. The Requirements column identifies whether a survey must be conducted for a particular species and references the section of the MSHCP Plan where survey requirements are more specifically defined. The Monitoring column incorporates information from Table 5-8 in Section 5.3 of this document including monitoring frequency for assessment of species distribution and reproduction. Finally, the Management Activities column summarizes specific management activities that will be performed for each species. The General Management measures referenced in this column are presented in Section 5.2 of this document. As described in Section 2.1.4, of the 146 Covered Species addressed in the MSHCP, 118 species are considered to be adequately conserved. The remaining 28 Covered Species will be considered to be adequately conserved when certain conservation requirements are met as identified in the speciesspecific conservation objectives for those species. For 16 of the 28 species, particular speciesspecific conservation objectives, which are identified in Table 9-3, must be satisfied to shift those particular species to the list of Covered Species Adequately Conserved. For the remaining 12 species, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for these species on Forest Service Land in order to shift these species to the list of Covered Species Adequately Conserved. More complete information regarding these 28 species is also included in Table 9-2, which summarizes anticipated Conservation and Take of the 146 Covered Species as described above. TABLE 9-3. TO BE MET FOR 28 SPECIES PRIOR TO INCLUDING THOSE SPECIES ON THE LIST OF COVERED SPECIES ADEQUATELY CONSERVED 1 REPTILES San Bernardino mountain kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra San Diego mountain kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata pulchra REQUIREMENT In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. FINAL MSHCP 9-20

21 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates TABLE 9-3 (Continued) southern rubber boa Charina bottae umbratica southern sagebrush lizard Sceloporus graciosus vandenburgianus BIRDS California spotted owl Strix occidentalis occidentalis grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum Lincoln s sparrow (breeding) Melospiza lincolnii Williamson's sapsucker Sphyrapicus thyroideus REQUIREMENT In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. Species Specific Conservation Objective: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100 percent) and at least 3 of the 4 smaller Core Areas (75 percent) in at least 1 year out of any 5 consecutive year period. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 8,000 acres in 7 Core Areas. Core areas may include the following: 1) Prado Basin, 2) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake/Johnson Ranch area, 3) Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, 4) Badlands, 5) Box Springs, 6) Santa Rosa Plateau/Tenaja, 7) Kabian Park, 8) Steele Peak, 9) Sycamore Canyon, 10) Potrero, and 11) Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area. Three of the 7 Core Areas will be large, consisting of a minimum of 2,000 acres of grassland habitat or grassland-dominated habitat (<20 percent shrub cover). The other 4 Core Areas may be smaller but will consist of at least 500 acres of contiguous grassland habitat or grassland-dominated habitat (<20 percent shrub cover). Five of the 7 Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 grasshopper sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Species Specific Conservation Objective: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100 percent) in at least 1 year out of any 5 consecutive-year period. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: least 100 acres in 3 Core Areas. Core Areas may include the following: (1) Tahquitz Valley; (2) Round Valley; (3) Garner Valley. The three Core Areas will be large, consisting of a minimum of 50 acres of montane meadow, wet montane meadow, and edges of montane riparian or riparian scrub. The Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 Lincoln's sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. FINAL MSHCP 9-21

22 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates TABLE 9-3 (Continued) MAMMALS San Bernardino flying squirrel Glaucomys sabrinus californicus PLANTS beautiful hulsea Hulsea vestita ssp. callicarpha California bedstraw Galium californicum ssp. primum California muhly Muhlenbergia californica chickweed oxytheca Oxytheca caryophylloides Cleveland's bush monkeyflower Mimulus clevelandii cliff cinquefoil Potentilla rimicola Coulter s matilija poppy Romneya coulteri Fish s milkwort Polygala cornuta var. fishiae REQUIREMENT Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm occupation of 1000 ha (2470 acres) with a mean density of at least 2 individuals per hectare (2 individuals per 2.47 acres) in the San Jacinto mountains; and in the San Bernardino Mountains confirm occupation of 100 ha. Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 16 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with no fewer than 50 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) containing at least 50 clumps (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) managed with 1,000 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm five localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 30 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 50 individuals (ramets or genets) each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). FINAL MSHCP 9-22

23 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates TABLE 9-3 (Continued) graceful tarplant Holocarpha virgata ssp. elongata lemon lily Lilium parryi Mojave tarplant Deinandra mohavensis ocellated Humboldt lily Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum Parry s spine flower Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi peninsular spine flower Chorizanthe leptotheca Plummer s mariposa lily Calochortus plummerae Rainbow manzanita Arctostaphylos rainbowensis shaggy-haired alumroot Heuchera hirsutissima REQUIREMENT Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with 1,000 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least four localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) occupying at least 100 acres. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm six localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) of at least 500 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with more than 50 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. FINAL MSHCP 9-23

24 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates TABLE 9-3 (Continued) small-flowered microseris Microseris douglasii var. platycarpha sticky-leaved dudleya Dudleya viscida Notes: REQUIREMENT Species Specific Conservation Objective: In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, a Memorandum of Understanding must be executed with the Forest Service that addresses management for this species on Forest Service Land. 1 The species-specific conservation objectives listed in this table comprise only a portion of the objectives that must be satisfied for each species. The objectives summarized in Table 9-2 and presented in detail in the species accounts of the MSHCP Reference Document, Volume II must also be fulfilled for each species. 9.3 MINIMIZATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES Minimization and mitigation measures incorporated in the MSHCP Plan are presented in detail throughout this document and the accompanying Reference Document - Volume II of the MSHCP. This section summarizes and references those measures. Minimization and mitigation measures have been incorporated in the MSHCP planning process and will be implemented during the longterm MSHCP implementation process. The various points in the process during which minimization and mitigation measures were and should be considered are listed below:! during the alternatives development and conservation planning process;! during the development of implementation procedures and strategies;! during Reserve Assembly activities;! during long-term management and monitoring activities. As part of the alternatives development and conservation planning process, as discussed in detail in Sections 2.0 and 3.4 of this document, a variety of alternatives and conservation planning strategies were considered to minimize the likely effects on Covered Species of anticipated growth in Western Riverside County. Of the four alternatives considered in detail, local stakeholders and decision makers selected Alternative 1, the alternative addressing conservation needs for the greatest number of species and the largest MSHCP Conservation Area. Also, as part of the conservation FINAL MSHCP 9-24

25 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates planning process, the circulation element required to accommodate projected growth was analyzed in the context of conservation goals. Certain roads or road extensions were eliminated from the circulation element or realigned in order to minimize impacts to Covered Species including the following: Keller, Baxter, De Portola, Del Rio, Avenida la Cresta, Calle Contento, Murrieta Hot Springs, Nicolas, Cactus Valley, Dunlap, Antelope Dawson, Newport, Estelle Mountain, Melanie, Indian Truck Trail, Castile, Hixon, Gibble, Fairview, Orange, Reservoir, Pico, 9 th, B Street, and 10 th. A Modified Reserve Design alternative was considered during the conservation planning process. It was determined that this alternative did not provide for substantially greater Conservation of Covered Species than would occur with the proposed Plan. This alternative was determined to be infeasible as part of a screening process. The screening analysis is documented in the Alternatives Screening Report included in the Appendix to the EIR/EIS for the MSHCP Plan and includes a description of the Modified Reserve Design alternative as well as a discussion of the reasons why the alternative was not carried forward for further analysis. While the Modified Reserve Design alternative would not provide for Conservation of species in addition to the 146 anticipated to be conserved under the MSHCP Plan, it would provide for a larger MSHCP Conservation Area and broader Linkages. A substantial amount of the additional Conservation provided under this alternative would be within areas designated for urban levels of Development and would thus conflict with local land use plans. A variety of implementation procedures and strategies are incorporated in the MSHCP to minimize and mitigate impacts to Covered Species. These procedures and strategies are described in detail in Sections 6.0 and 7.0 of this document and include elements such as the following - avoidance and minimization; survey requirements for certain species and associated avoidance and minimization requirements; criteria for siting, design, construction, operations and maintenance for Covered Activities incorporating avoidance and minimization requirements; and measures to ensure that indirect effects associated with land uses in proximity to the MSHCP Conservation Area are minimized. Likewise, a variety of measures are incorporated in the MSHCP Plan during the long-term Reserve Assembly process to ensure that the MSHCP Conservation Area is assembled in a manner consistent with MSHCP conservation goals and that the most appropriate lands are assembled for the MSHCP Conservation Area. These measures include requirements for prioritization of acquisitions, use of new information obtained as a result of surveys to focus acquisition efforts, guidelines to ensure that Reserve Assembly occurs in general Rough Step with Take of Covered Species, and assurances of adequate funding for Reserve Assembly. FINAL MSHCP 9-25

26 9.0 Conservation and Incidental Take Estimates Comprehensive management and monitoring activities also will be undertaken during the life of the MSHCP Permit as described in Section 5.0 of this document. The monitoring and management plans are designed to address identified threats to Covered Species and to be consistent with MSHCP conservation objectives that call for establishment of a functioning, self-sustaining MSHCP Conservation Area. Mitigation measures incorporated in the Plan to compensate for Take of Covered Species that cannot be avoided or minimized, and to be undertaken by the Permittees include contribution of approximately 103,000 acres to the MSHCP Conservation Area and adherence to the requirements of the MSHCP. In addition, the Permittees will contribute to long-term management and monitoring of the MSHCP Conservation Area. These contributions are described in greater detail in Section 8.0 of this document. FINAL MSHCP 9-26

27 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES INVERTEBRATES/CRUSTACEANS Riverside fairy shrimp (Streptocephalus woottoni) Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp (Linderiella santarosae) 3 The Riverside fairy shrimp is narrowly distributed in the Plan Area. It is known from five localities in deep vernal pools. In the Plan Area vernal pools supporting Riverside Fairy shrimp have identified on Murrieta stony clay loams, Las Posas series, Wyman clay loam, and Willows soils. Five known key populations occur within the Plan Area. They are located on the Santa Rosa Plateau, Skunk Hollow, Murrieta and Lake Elsinore back basin. Preservation of this species must be analyzed based on Core Areas. Riverside fairy shrimp requires specific conditions, occurs in few locations, and uses a well-defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed. This species will require site specific considerations, protection of essential Habitat on a landscape basis, and species specific management conditions. 3 The Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp is narrowly distributed in the Plan Area. It is restricted to cool-water vernal pools which are formed on Southern Basalt Flows. In the Plan Area, this species, and its microhabitat are only known to occur on the Santa Rosa Plateau. least five Core Areas of occupied vernal pools (or vernal pool complex) and their watersheds. Core Areas include the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve (17,188 acres), Skunk Hollow (156 acres), Murrieta (1,292 acres) and Lake Elsinore back basin (3,180 acres). least 11,942 acres of landscape habitat area which might contain suitable vernal pool habitat for Riverside fairy shrimp (playa, basalt flows, and clay soils). These areas may support other non-mapped pools and depressions which may be suitable for Riverside fairy shrimp. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important for the Riverside fairy shrimp. This objective shall be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Poolspolicy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable Riverside fairy shrimp habitat, defined as vernal pools, stock ponds, ephemeral ponds, or other human-modified depressions, is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. least 32 acres of basalt flow vernal pools and a majority of their watersheds within the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. Conservation for the Riverside fairy shrimp will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 11,942 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within five Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, other areas within the Criteria Area identified as important for the Riverside fairy shrimp will be conserved. This objective shall be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable Habitat for this species is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in Orange and San Diego counties. Conservation for the Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 32 acres of suitable basalt vernal pool Conserved Habitat within 1 Core Area. In addition, at least Within the key population areas, approximately 5,868 acres (33 percent) of potential vernal pool and playa Habitat and suitable soils Habitat land coverages would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Any Riverside fairy shrimp present within this area would be subject to Incidental Take under the guidelines implemented as part of this Plan. Within the key population areas, no basalt flow vernal pool Habitat would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, and approximately 252 acres (11 percent) of potential Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools). Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine 8 General Management Measure 4. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area containing Murrieta stony clay loams, Las Posas series, Wyman clay loam, or Willows soils will evaluate their Core Area for the presence of historic or vestigial vernal pools. A program to enhance these areas will be undertaken. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, that pond water seasonally will be identified and monitored for the presence of fairy shrimp. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved known or future vernal pools or depressions. Particular management emphasis will be given to discing, illegal dumping and maintaining hydrology. 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved known and future basalt vernal pools. Particular management emphasis will be given to maintaining hydrology. FINAL MSHCP 9-27

28 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Because the Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp requires specific conditions, occurs in few locations, and is confined to a well defined Habitat that is very narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of preferred Habitat, and species specific management conditions. least 2,134 acres of area on the basalt flow that may contain unmapped vernal pool Habitat which might support Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important for the Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp. This objective shall be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp Habitat, defined as vernal pools, stock ponds, ephemeral ponds, or other human-modified depressions over Basaltic soils, is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. 2,134 acres of Basalt flow soils, which may support suitable vernal pools within the MSHCP Plan Area will be conserved. This objective will be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable Habitat for this species is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. Furthermore, the MSHCP Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in Orange, and San Diego counties. vernal pool supporting basalt flow Habitats would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The entire known population would be included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and therefore, no Take of populations is anticipated. Areas and Vernal Pools). vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi) 3 The vernal pool fairy shrimp is narrowly distributed at relatively few locations within the MSHCP Plan Area in suitable Habitat. It is present in vernal pools in three key locations in the MSHCP Plan Area. Key locations are the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, Skunk Hollow, and Salt Creek in west Hemet. Conservation analysis for this species must be considered based on Core Areas. Because the vernal pool fairy shrimp requires specific conditions, occurs in few locations, and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site-specific considerations, protection of essential Habitat on a landscape basis, and species specific management conditions. least 476 acres of suitable Habitat by conserving vernal pool and playa Habitat (does not include watershed acreages) within the West Hemet portion of Salt Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, and Skunk Hollow. least 2,647 acres of alkali playa (Willow, Traver and Domino soils) in the floodplain of the San Jacinto River and west Hemet portion of Salt Creek which contains suitable Habitat for this species. least three Core Areas, which include the three Conservation for the vernal pool fairy shrimp will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 3,123 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within three Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, other areas within the Criteria Area identified as important for the vernal pool fairy shrimp will be conserved. This objective shall be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of About 67 acres (12 percent) of potential vernal pool and playa Habitat for the vernal pool fairy shrimp within the three locations and 4,016 acres (60 percent) of Willows, Traver, and Domino soils within the flood plain of the San Jacinto River and the west Hemet portion of Salt Creek, would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Any vernal pool fairy shrimp present within this area would be subject to Incidental Take under the guidelines implemented as part of this Plan. Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools). 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved vernal pools or depressions. Particular management emphasis will be given to farming, grazing, alteration of hydrology and non-native Habitat creation. FINAL MSHCP 9-28

29 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: known occupied vernal pools (or vernal pool complexes) and their watersheds in the West Hemet portion of Salt Creek (4,043 acres), Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve (17,188 acres), and Skunk Hollow (156 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important for the vernal pool fairy shrimp. This objective shall be met through implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable vernal pool fairy shrimp Habitat, defined as vernal pools, stock ponds, ephemeral ponds, or other human-modified depressions over willow soils, is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and, if suitable Habitat for this species is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a single-season dry or wet season survey for this species shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the fairy shrimp shall be conserved. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in Orange, and San Diego counties. INVERTEBRATES/INSECTS Dehli Sands flower-loving fly (Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis) 3 The Delhi Sands flower-loving fly is found at low numbers and is narrowly distributed within the Plan Area. This species is restricted by the distribution and availability of open Habitats within the fine, sandy Delhi series soils. USFWS has identified three main population areas are known to currently or to have at one time existed in the Plan Area. One is located in the northwestern corner of the Plan Area, a second is located in the Jurupa Hills, and the third is located in the Agua Mansa Industrial Center area. Because the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly requires a specific Habitat type, this species will require site specific considerations, protection and enhancement of this limited Habitat type, and species specific management to maintain the Habitat and populations. Conservation for this species within the Plan Area will occur according to the process described in either Objective 1A, Objective 1B or Objective 1C noted below. Under Objective 1A, surveys for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly will not be required on a project-by-project bases. Under Objectives 1B and 1C, project-by-project surveys in accordance with USFWS Interim General Guidelines for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly will be required. Any revisions to these Guidelines shall be approved by the County in order for it to be applicable to the requirements of the MSHCP. Implementation of the Objectives below will provide for Conservation of the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Initially, the Local Permittees will utilize Objective 1B. However, During the life Conservation for the Delhi sands flower-loving fly will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 50 acres of primary Habitat and 170 acres of restorable Habitat as Conserved Habitat within three Core Areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area, totaling approximately 220 acres. This acreage may be updated based on site-specific base mapping within three years after permit issuance. The first priority for Conservation will be within Core Areas including the three known point localities of the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. These locations include Approximately 452 acres (90 percent) of primary Habitat over Delhi soils and 791 acres (82 percent) of potentially restorable Habitat for the Delhi sands flower-loving fly would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. One (25 percent) of the 5 precision code "1" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 1** Reserve Managers will manage conserved lands to maintain presence of Delhi fly at existing levels and provide opportunities for colonization by Delhi fly within the 170 acres of restorable lands to be conserved. Management considerations will include measures to maintain ecological processes (i.e., sand transport). As opportunities are available, Reserve Managers will work with others involved in Delhi fly Conservation outside the Plan Area to develop a scientifically acceptable program for determining long-term evidence of successful reproduction. Particular management measures for known and future occurrences will include sand management (possibly transporting soils mechanically within the MSHCP Conservation Area to ensure that sand is maintained). The Core Areas will be fenced and signed to prevent trespassing, possibly patrolled. FINAL MSHCP 9-29

30 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES of the Plan, the Local Permittees may elect to utilize Objective 1A, 1B or 1C. Fulfillment of the ultimate requirements of any single one of the Objectives, 1A, 1B or 1C, in combination with the other components of the MSHCP Conservation Strategy for this species as described in the Introduction to Species Accounts, Volume II.B of the MSHCP, is anticipated to provide for Conservation for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Objective 1A: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Delhi soils in at least three Core Areas, totaling 220 acres of Additional Reserve Lands. Areas to be conserved may include suitable dispersal and/or movement habitat and interconnecting linkages within the Core Areas themselves or be contiguous to areas that have already been conserved within and outside the Plan Area including locations outside the MSHCP Criteria Area or within San Bernardino County in the situation noted below. The first priority for conservation will be within Core Areas including the three known occupied areas that include the known localities of the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly in the Plan Area. These locations include one in the northwestern corner of the Plan Area near Hamner Avenue and SR-60 (Mira Loma), one in the Jurupa Hills, and one in the Agua Mansa Industrial Center. If conservation is not feasible in these areas, those acres may be conserved in other locations within the MSHCP Plan Area and outside the Criteria Area or within San Bernardino County, subject to approval by the Wildlife Agencies and provided the other location has long-term conservation value for the species. Long-term conservation value will be measured by such factors as occupation by the Delhi Sands flowerloving fly on the lands to be conserved, presence of Delhi soils, opportunities for connectivity to other areas conserved for the species and other appropriate factors. Conservation within Riverside or San Bernardino County will be within Service one in the northwestern corner of the Plan Area near Hamner Avenue and SR-60, one in the Jurupa Hills, and one in the vicinity of the Agua Mansa Industrial Center. If Conservation is infeasible in these areas, other locations within the MSHCP Plan Area and outside the Criteria Area, or within San Bernardino County, may be considered to achieve the acreage Conservation requirement. If Conservation occurs in these areas, it shall be demonstrated that the conserved areas will have long-term Conservation value for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Long-term Conservation value will be measured by such factors as occupation by the fly on the lands to be conserved, presence of Delhi soils, opportunities for connectivity to other areas conserved for the fly and other factors such as may be determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee. Also, the MSHCP Conservation Area will include suitable dispersal and/or movement Habitat and interconnecting Linkages, including Delhi soils and other open Habitats. These Habitats will be conserved in between Core Areas or areas that have already been conserved for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall document successful reproduction at all three Core Areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area, or other areas to be conserved in accordance with Objective 1, as measured by the presence/absence of pupae cases or newly emerged (teneral) individuals once a year for the first five years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee as described in Section 6.6 of the MSHCP, Volume I (but These sites will be weeded and planted with native seed collected locally. FINAL MSHCP 9-30

31 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES identified recovery units as set forth in the Recovery Plan for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Progress toward achieving this objective will be measured and reported on an annual basis as part of the annual reporting required in Section 6.11 of the Plan. Annual reporting with respect to this Objective 1A will be in accordance with the Rough Step analysis parameters described in Section 6.7 of the Plan. For purposes of Reserve Assembly accounting in accordance with the Rough Step procedures, the baseline for analysis will be Delhi Sands flower-loving fly suitable habitat within the Criteria Area as depicted on Figure 9-9. Suitable habitat for this species is defined as Delhi soils co-occurring with coastal sage scrub, grassland and alluvial fan sage scrub (prime habitat) and Delhi soils co-occurring with agriculture (restorable habitat). In accordance with the requirements of Section 6.7 of the Plan, if Objective 1A is selected by the Local Permittees and the Rough Step rule is not met for this species during any analysis period, the Permittees must conserve appropriate lands supporting suitable habitat to bring the Plan back into the parameters of the rule prior to authorizing additional loss of suitable habitat. The total private lands acreage of suitable habitat within the Criteria Area ( TA in rough step rule) is 810 acres. The Additional Reserve Lands acreage goal for suitable habitat c in rough step rule) is 220 acres. Loss of suitable habitat will be measured only within the Criteria Area. Conservation of suitable habitat will be measured inside and outside the Criteria Area as long as the Conservation meets the configuration parameters of Objective 1A as stated in the first paragraph of this Objective. not less frequently than every 8 years). Finally, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in southern San Bernardino County. Objective 1B: With the exception of Cells 21, 22 and 55 within Area Plan Subunit 3 of the Jurupa Area Plan FINAL MSHCP 9-31

32 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES discussed below, include within the MSHCP Conservation Area locations within the Plan Area determined to be occupied by the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly based on the results of surveys conducted in accordance with USFWS Interim General Guidelines for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly. Any revision to these Guidelines shall be approved by the County in order for it to be applicable to the requirements of the MSHCP. s shall be conducted for future projects within the approximately 5,100 acres of mapped Delhi Soils within the Plan Area (see Figure 9-10, Delhi Sands flower-loving fly soils with Criteria Area). It is understood that surveys would be conducted within suitable habitat areas of the mapped Delhi soils as determined by the surveying biologist. For example, according to the MSHCP database of the approximately 5,100 acres of mapped Delhi soils within the Plan Area, approximately 2,500 acres (49%) are already developed according to the MSHCP vegetation map and would not be considered to be suitable habitat. Once two years of surveys have been conducted, no further surveys shall be required. If the project site is determined to be occupied, 75 percent of the mapped Delhi Soils on site will be conserved. However, if the surveying biologist determines that distribution of habitat for the Delhi Sands flower-loving on site is not consistent with the extent of mapped Delhi Soils on site, 75 percent of such habitat on site will be conserved. The Service will be given 60 days to review and comment on the surveying biologists determination. If the Service disagrees with the determination of the surveying biologist, the applicable Local Permittee(s) and the Service will meet and confer within 10 working days to attempt to resolve the different determinations. If it is determined that 75 percent conservation on the occupied site is infeasible or the Service FINAL MSHCP 9-32

33 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES concurs that such conservation would not contribute to the long-term conservation of the species, conservation may occur within the conservation areas identified in Objective 1A at a ratio of three times (3:1) the mapped Delhi soils or subject to Service concurrence, the habitat of the species as identified by survey biologist on the identified occupied site. At such time asthe cumulative conservation according to the above methodology results in the conservation of 220 acres, no further surveys or conservation will be required. If surveys for future projects are conducted in accordance with USFWS Interim General Guidelines within the mapped Delhi Soils within the Plan Area, not already conserved, and no new Delhi Sands flower-loving flies within the Plan Area are detected, no additional conservation within the Plan Area will be required. Within Cells 21, 22 and 55 of Area Plan Subunit 3 of the Jurupa Area Plan, surveys shall not be required. Instead, 50 acres of Additional Reserve Lands shall be acquired within the geographic areas identified in Objective 1A and according to the reserve configuration guidance included in Objective 1A. Tracking of acreage conserved and lost within these cells shall be in accordance with the Rough Step analysis parameters described in Objective 1A. For purposes of Cells 21, 22 and 25, the total private lands acreage of suitable habitat within the Criteria Area ( TA in Rough Step rule) is 270 acres. The Additional Reserve Lands acreage goal for suitable habitat ( C in Rough Step rule) is 50 acres. Loss of suitable habitat will be measured only within the Criteria Area. Conservation of suitable habitat will be measured inside and outside the Criteria Area as long as the Conservation meets the configuration parameters of Objective 1A. FINAL MSHCP 9-33

34 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 1C: least 50 acres of Additional Reserve Lands within the Plan Area and a combination of: 1) 80 percent of areas identified as occupied by the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly by existing data or determined to be occupied during surveys conducted in accordance with USFWS Interim General Guidelines for the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly and any County approved revisions to these Guidelines; and 2) mitigation offsite at a ratio of 2:1 of areas determined to be occupied by existing data or protocol surveys. s shall be conducted for projects within the approximately 5,100 acres of mapped Delhi Soils within the Plan Area (see Figure 9-10, Delhi Sands flower-loving fly soils with Criteria Area). Once two years of surveys have been conducted, no further surveys shall be required. The survey area may be modified by mutual agreement of the Wildlife Agencies and the Permittee with land use authority over the proposed project area. If project surveys or existing data show occupancy of the site or a portion of the site by the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly, take of the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly on 20 percent of the occupied habitat may occur. The remaining 80 percent of the onsite habitat shall be avoided by the project applicant and managed for conservation of the species. Due to the critical condition of this species, the Wildlife Agencies and the Permittees shall focus conservation efforts in the northwestern portion of the Plan Area in areas known to be occupied by the Delhi Sands flowerloving fly. Upon the completion of the acquisition of 50 acres of Delhi Sands flower-loving fly habitat in Riverside County by the Parties, the survey and mitigation/avoidance requirements shall revert to:! Projects proposed on the approximately 5,100 acres of Delhi Soils within the Plan FINAL MSHCP 9-34

35 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Area will conduct focused surveys using USFWS Interim General Guidelines for the Delhi Sands flowerloving fly and any County approved revisions to these Guidelines to determine occupancy by the Delhi Sands flowerloving fly.! When Delhi flies are present on the project site, occupied habitat shall be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio at a location consistent with achieving long-term conservation value for the species.! If, prior to the conservation of the first 50 acres, a project has avoided 80 percent of the occupied habitat on the project site, the project proponent may request of the Permittee a modification of their project to allow the development of the 80 percent avoidance area. If the Permittee, with the concurrence of the Wildlife Agencies, determines that the conservation of Delhi Sands flower-loving fly habitat at an offsite location would result in equal or greater conservation value for the species than the habitat in the 80 percent onsite avoidance area and that the alternative mitigation site is at a location consistent with achieving long-term conservation value for the species, then the Permittee may authorize the loss of Delhi Sands flower-loving fly habitat on the avoidance area. The mitigation for this take shall be at a 2:1 ratio with the take area being the areas identified as the entire occupied area (i.e., mitigation includes the occupied habitat previously authorized for development) when the 80 percent onsite avoidance area was established. FINAL MSHCP 9-35

36 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall document successful reproduction at all three Core Areas or other areas to be conserved in accordance with Objective 1, as measured by the presence/absence of pupae cases or newly emerged (teneral) individuals once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined to be appropriate (but not less frequently than every 8 years). Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) 3 The Quino checkerspot butterfly is narrowly distributed at relatively few locations within the Plan Area in suitable Habitat. Although they may occur in nearly any upland Habitat that is relatively open, they are also restricted by the distribution and availability of their host plants. Because of wide-spread infestation of non-native exotic weed species and Habitat type conversion, much of the Habitat that was once open and suitable is now densely vegetated and unsuitable. Patches of suitable Habitat within larger Habitat matrices are unpredictably available and distributed. Spatially clustered Quino checkerspot butterfly observations have been organized into occurrence complexes for the purposes of Conservation analysis. Occurrence complexes are known segments of short-term population distributions presumed to be within a larger distribution of metapopulations. There are 22 occurrence complexes within the Plan Area. Large and/or strategically located occurrence complexes are considered core populations. There are seven identified Core population Areas. The Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain portion of the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/Harford Springs Core Area is unoccupied; it was historically occupied, but Quino has been extirpated. The other core populations occur in the southwestern portion of the Riverside Basin in the south and southeastern portions of the Plan Area from the vicinity of Diamond Valley Lake trending to the south and east into the Anza Valley. least 67,493 acres of Habitat mosaic (which may include chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrubs, grasslands, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, playas and vernal pools, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitats) supporting the seven Core populations in the southwest portion of the County, including 1) the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/ Harford Springs Core Area (17,989 acres), 2) Warm Springs Creek Core Area (3,517 acres), 3) Johnson Ranch/Lake Skinner Core Area (8,068 acres), 4) Oak Mountain Core Area (8,737 acres), 5) Wilson Valley Core Area (9,303 acres), 6) Sage Core Area (4,462 acres), and 7) Silverado/Tule Peak Core Area (15,202 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 12 known satellite (non-core) occurrence complexes within the following six areas: French Valley, Oak Mountain/Vail Lake, Anza Valley, Sage/Wilson Valley, Brown Canyon/Cactus Valley and Aguanga. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain landscape connectivity around the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/Harford Springs Core Area and between and among the core and satellite occurrence populations in the southeastern portion of the Plan Area. In the Lake Mathews Core Area, the MSHCP Conservation for the Quino checkerspot butterfly will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 67,493 acres of Core Area including suitable Conserved Habitat mosaic within seven Core Areas and an additional 12 satellite locations. These areas are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. Potential dispersion inhibitors, such as busy roads and highways, will be modified by engineers to accommodate movement of the species. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will document the distribution of Quino checkerspot on an annual basis. The current population size of the Quino checkerspot is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern San Diego County. Approximately 41,668 acres (38%) of potential Habitat mosaic within the Core Area (15,511 acres [46%] in the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain Core Area; 1,305 acres [27%] in the Warm Springs Core Area; 5,707 acres41%] in the Johnson Ranch/Lake Skinner Core Area; 4,291 acres [33%] acres in the Oak Mountain Core Area; 102 acres (1%) in the Wilson Valley Core Area; 8,999 acres [67%] of the Sage Core Area, and; 5,728 acres [27%] of the Silverado/Tule Peak Core Area) for the Quino checkerspot would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to incidental take consistent with the Plan. Twenty-seven (32%) of the 85 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, three (11%) are mapped within existing agriculture and one (4%) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages. None 1 Each Reserve Manager will evaluate the condition of the Quino checkerspot Habitat within their Core Area and maintain an adaptive program to maintain and/or enhance Quino checkerspot Habitat to increase the value of the Habitat and viability of the Quino checkerspot. This Adaptive Management program will assess the efficacy of various methods such as fire to retain a low vegetation layer or open aspect to the vegetation and remove weedy annual species; using mechanical equipment to attain Habitat openings within dense chaparral areas between occupied areas to facilitate movement; or other measures which might enhance unoccupied Habitat or preserve Habitat quality in occupied areas. Reserve Managers will maintain landscape connectivity around the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/Harford Springs Core Area and between and among the core and satellite occurrence populations in the southeastern portion of the Plan Area. In the Lake Mathews Core Area, the reserve configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between Lake Mathews, Olsen Canyon, Monument Peak, Dawson Canyon, Estelle Mountain, Bull Canyon, Steele Valley, Gavilan Hills, and Harford Springs areas. (In the southwestern Riverside County area, reserve configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between and among the core population occurrences and the satellite occurrences in Antelope Valley and Murrieta Hot Springs area, east through the French Valley/Lake Skinner area, east to the Sage and Santa Rosa Hills area, east and south through Wilson Valley, Billy Goat Mountain, Aguanga, Tule Valley, and north to Anza and the Cahuilla Indian Reservation.) Reserve Managers will document distribution on an annual basis. Other management activities will focus on non-native species, farming, grazing, off-road vehicles and human collection. FINAL MSHCP 9-36

37 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Quino checkerspot requires specific Habitat that is narrowly distributed, is extremely vulnerable to Habitat degradation and fragmentation, and will require site specific management considerations. Conservation Area configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between Lake Mathews, Olsen Canyon, Monument Peak, Dawson Canyon, Estelle Mountain, Bull Canyon, Steele Valley, Gavilan Hills, and Harford Springs areas. In the southwestern Riverside County area, the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between and among the core population occurrences and the satellite occurrences in Antelope Valley and Murrieta Hot Springs area, east through the French Valley/Lake Skinner area, east to the Sage and Santa Rosa Hills area, east and south through Wilson Valley, Billy Goat Mountain, Aguanga, Tule Valley, and north to Anza and the Cahuilla Indian Reservation. The MSHCP Conservation Area configuration will provide a connection between the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/Harford Springs Core Area and the other Core Areas through the Steele Peak/North Peak North Elsinore/Warm Springs, Sedco Hills and Iodine Spring areas. Numerous roads and highways cross this connection and engineering design measures will be implemented to accommodate dispersion of butterflies throughout the Plan Area. Objective 4: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will document the distribution of Quino checkerspot on an annual basis. FISH arroyo chub (Gila orcutti) 2 The arroyo chub is distributed within two watersheds, the Santa Ana and Santa Margarita watersheds. It occurs in several locations within these watersheds. Although the preferred Habitat, open water and emergent vegetation in lower gradient streams with sand or mud substrate, is located in numerous areas within the Plan Area, only six Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, 4,580 acres of Habitat that provides potential spawning and foraging opportunities for the arroyo chub in the Santa Ana and Santa Margarita watersheds. achieved by inclusion of at least 4,580 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including the occupied Habitat (water and freshwater marsh) and adjacent buffer and streambank (includes a variety of Habitats) About 520 acres (10 percent) of potential Habitat for the arroyo chub will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will prepare an Adaptive Management plan for the arroyo chub. The management plan will address threats to the chub from degraded Habitat, including reduced water quality, loss of Habitat and introduction of non-native species; identify areas of the watershed that are necessary to successful spawning of the FINAL MSHCP 9-37

38 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES drainages currently support populations of the arroyo chub. These locations comprise the Core Areas for the species and include the Santa Margarita River, De Luz Creek upstream of the De Luz Post Office, lower Sandia Creek, Murrieta Creek near its mouth at the Santa Margarita River, Cole Creek between the confluence of Murrieta Creek and the edge of the Conservancy property, and Temecula Creek upstream of Vail Lake. Within the Santa Ana River, the species Core Area occurs from the Riverside and San Bernardino county line downstream to the Prado Dam (Swift 2001). Because it requires specific well known Habitat conditions and occurs in few Core Areas within a larger Habitat category, the arroyo chub will require Conservation on a landscape level as well as on site specific considerations for the known Core Areas as a Group 2 species. Objective 4: Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, the suitable Core Areas for the arroyo chub in the Santa Ana watershed. Conserve the natural river bottom and banks, including the adjacent upland Habitat where available to provide shade and suitable microclimate conditions (e.g., alluvial terraces, riparian vegetation) of the Santa Ana River from the Orange County and Riverside County line to the upstream boundary of the Plan Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, the suitable Core Areas and available adjacent Habitat for the arroyo chub in the Santa Margarita watershed. Conserve the natural river and or creek bottom and banks up to an elevation of 400 meters in the reach of the Santa Margarita River in the Plan Area, and in De Luz Creek and its tributary downstream to the County line, in upper Sandia Creek downstream to the County line, in Murrieta Creek from Winchester Road to near its confluence with the Santa Margarita River, in Cole Creek between its confluence with Murrieta Creek and the boundary of Conservancy property and in Temecula Creek from Long (Smith) Canyon just below the falls near the County line downstream to a concrete drop structure at Highway 79 (upstream of Vail Lake). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, the Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in the Santa Margarita watershed will assess the range of chub movement in the watershed and the need for connectivity and identify measures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible. Within the MSCHP Conservation Area, the Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in Objectives 2 and 3 will assess threats to the chub from degraded Habitat (e.g., within the MSHCP Conservation Area. All of the known and potential locations, refugia, and spawning areas are included within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, Objectives 4 and 5 will provide assessment of barriers and threats to the arroyo chub by the Reserve Managers and shall identify measures to be implemented if feasible. with the Plan. A total of 10 acres (3 percent) of the open water Habitat within the Santa Ana River will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations. These open water areas are currently unsuitable areas of isolated ponds that are not connected to the Santa Ana River but are located within the area analyzed for Conservation of this species. Other upland and adjacent areas within the Santa Ana River watershed that are not conserved include adjacent Habitat within the Green River Golf Club, an upland area within the Silver Lakes areas and upland area between Mission Boulevard and Rancho Jurupa Park where the adjacent Habitat area narrows. None of the stream channel reaches of the Santa Ana River are outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. None of the open water or emergent vegetation within the Santa Margarita River and its arroyo chub occupied tributaries is located outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi- Public designations. Other upland and adjacent areas within the Santa Margarita River watershed that are not conserved include adjacent Habitat within De Luz Creek which averages narrower than the 600-foot area analyzed for Conservation. This drainage averages approximately 380 feet in width within the MSHCP Conservation Area. De Luz Creek drainage is conserved, however the buffer of upland Habitat is narrower than most of the other drainages within which the arroyo chub occurs. chub; and identify and implement Habitat Conservation measures to protect these critical areas from degradation due to flood control and water Conservation operations. The management plan will also include monitoring to assess current range of chub movement within the Santa Margarita River watershed and assess the need for connectivity within the portion of the watershed in the Plan Area and implement measures to restore connectivity if needed. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create Habitat for the chub to appropriate conditions for spawning, foraging and refugia in both the Santa Ana River and Santa Margarita River watersheds. Reserve Managers will identify and protect spawning sites and monitor annually each of the Core Areas in order to obtain estimates of recruitment success. Enhancement measures will include removal of exotic species, the creation of stream meanders, pool-riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation. Existing flood control structures will be evaluated for need and modified as possible and as the opportunity arises to improve fish Habitat. Within the Santa Ana River, enhancement measures will be concentrated in the area down stream of Mission Boulevard to the Riverside/Orange county line to reduce Habitat favorable to non-native species, thereby reducing predatory and competitive pressure on the chub. Reserve Managers will conduct or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program within the Santa Ana River and Santa Margarita River watersheds. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fish barriers at sources of non-native species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fish through mechanical means (e.g., gill nets, trapping, etc.). Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in the Santa Margarita Margarita watershed will assess the range of arroyo chub movement in the watershed and the need for connectivity and identify measures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible. FINAL MSHCP 9-38

39 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES reduced water quality, loss of Habitat, presence of non-native predators and vegetation); identify areas of the watershed that are necessary to successful spawning of the chub, identify areas for creation of stream meanders, pool riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation as appropriate and feasible and identify and implement management measures to address threats and protect critical areas. None of the Core Areas, spawning areas, dispersal, or refugia areas are outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area for either watershed. It should be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area would be subject to the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. The Incidental Take of the chub is difficult to quantify because larva and adults are quite small in body sizes, finding a dead or impaired specimen is unlikely, the species occurs in Habitat that make detection difficult and losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. Santa Ana sucker (Catastomus santaanae) 3 The Santa Ana sucker is narrowly distributed at few locations within the Plan Area. Although the preferred Habitat, open water and emergent vegetation occurs in numerous areas within the Plan Area, suckers are concentrated within 5 to 10 miles of the Santa Ana River (between the Riverside/San Bernardino County line and Van Buren Boulevard) and disperse into more marginal Habitats (between Van Buren and Prado Dam). There are suckers present below Prado Dam, however this area is probably a sink because the dam is a barrier to upstream migration. The Santa Ana sucker has specific Habitat requirements and conditions within the larger riverine Habitat within which it occurs. Because it requires specific Habitat conditions, occurs in few locations within a larger Habitat category, and occurs in low densities, the Santa Ana sucker will require Conservation on a landscape level, with site specific considerations and management at the known locations and thus has been identified as a Group 3 species. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 3,480 acres of the suitable Habitat for the Santa Ana sucker including the Santa Ana River within the natural river bottom and banks. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Core Areas upstream of River Road, between River Road and Prado Dam, and downstream of Prado Dam; the known spawning areas at Sunnyslope Creek and within the area just below Mission Boulevard upstream to the Rialto Drain; and refugia and dispersal areas including the Market Street Seep, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Anza Park Drain, Arroyo Tequesquite, Hidden Valley Drain, and Evans Lake Drain. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the natural river bottom and banks of the Santa Ana River from the Orange County and Riverside County line to the upstream boundary of the Plan Area, including the adjacent upland Habitat, achieved by inclusion of at least 3,480 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including the occupied Habitat (water and freshwater marsh) and adjacent buffer and streambank (includes a variety of Habitats) within the MSHCP Conservation Area. All of the known and potential refugia and spawning areas are included within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, Objectives 4 and 5 will provide assessment of barriers and threats to the Santa Ana sucker by the Reserve Managers and will identify measures to be implemented if feasible. The Incidental Take of the sucker is difficult to quantify because larva and adults are quite small in body sizes, finding a dead or impaired specimen is unlikely, the species occurs in Habitat that make detection difficult and losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. About 390 acres of potential Habitat for the Santa Ana sucker, including the preferred Habitat and the Habitat adjacent to the channel, will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 10 percent of the total potential Habitat. A total of 10 acres (3 percent) of the open water Habitat that is potentially occupied by the Santa Ana sucker will be outside the Criteria None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will conduct, or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program within the Santa Ana River. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fish barriers at sources of non-native species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fish through mechanical means (e.g., gillnets, trapping, etc.). Reserve Managers will prepare a monitoring plan to assess extent of sucker movement within the Santa Ana River. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, current migration barriers to the sucker include Prado Dam and culverts immediately below River Road Bridge. The management plan will assess the need for population connectivity within the Santa Ana River and implement measures to remove barriers. Reserve Managers will conserve the natural river bottom and banks and adjacent Habitats which provide shade and suitable microclimate conditions (e.g., alluvial terraces, riparian vegetation) of the Santa Ana River with a minimum of 0.5 mile upstream of the confluence of each of the tributaries to the Santa Ana River FINAL MSHCP 9-39

40 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: Objective 5: where available, to provide shade and suitable microclimate conditions (e.g., alluvial terraces, riparian vegetation). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, the Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in Objectives 2 and 3 will assess barriers to sucker movement and the need for connectivity and identify measures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible. Within the MSHP Conservation Area, the Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in Objectives 2 and 3 will assess threats to the sucker from degraded Habitat (e.g., reduced water quality, loss of Habitat, presence of non-native predators and vegetation); identify areas of the watershed that are necessary to successful sucker spawning, identify areas for creation of stream meanders, pool riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation as appropriate and feasible and identify and implement management measures to address threats and protect critical areas. Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations. These open water areas are currently unsuitable areas of isolated ponds that are not connected to the Santa Ana River but are located within the area analyzed for Conservation of this species. Other upland and adjacent areas that are not conserved include adjacent Habitat within the Green River Golf Club, an upland area within the Silver Lakes areas and upland area between Mission Boulevard and Rancho Jurupa Park where the adjacent Habitat area narrows. None of the stream channel reaches of the Santa Ana River are outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. None of the Core population areas, spawning areas, dispersal, or refugia areas are outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. It should be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area would be subject to the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. between the Riverside/San Bernardino County line and the Riverside/Orange County line. Tributaries include Sunnyslope Creek, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Arroyo Tequesquite, Anza Park Drain, Evans Lake Drain, Temescal Creek and Aliso Creek. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve existing water quality and flow levels in the Santa Ana River by the use and enforcement of current or better water quality standards and at a minimum maintenance of existing flows. Permitted activities must maintain current water quality standards and flows. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create Habitat for the sucker to appropriate conditions for spawning, foraging and refugia within the Santa Ana River and its tributaries as directed in the management plan. Enhancement measures will include control of exotic plant species, the creation of stream meanders, pool-riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation. Enhancement measures will be concentrated in the area between Mission Boulevard and the Riverside/Orange county line to reduce Habitat favorable to non native species, thereby reducing predatory and competitive pressure on the sucker. Reserve Managers will protect and manage the core population areas upstream of River Road, between River Road and Prado Dam, and downstream of Prado Dam, the known spawning areas at Sunnyslope Creek and within the area just below Mission Boulevard upstream to the Rialto Drain and refugia and dispersal areas including the Market Street Seep, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Anza Park Drain, Arroyo Tequesquite, Hidden Valley Drain, and Evans Lake Drain. Reserve Managers will identify and implement steps to reduce the turbidity that currently affect the water quality below the Prado Dam by conducting a sediment transport study on the Santa Ana River in cooperation with other Federal, local and state agencies. Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in Objectives 2 and 3 of the Species Account will assess barriers to sucker movement and the need for connectivity and identify measures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible. Reserve Managers will conduct, or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in, a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program within the Santa Ana River. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fish barriers at sources of non-native FINAL MSHCP 9-40

41 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fish through mechanical means (e.g., gillnets, trapping, etc.). AMPHIBIANS arroyo toad (Bufo californicus) 3 The arroyo toad has narrow Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area, typically being restricted to the middle reaches of third order streams. Currently, the known distribution of arroyo toads within the Plan Area include Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco Creek, Tenaja Creek, Los Alamos Creek, San Jacinto River, Bautista Creek, and Wilson Creek. These areas have also been modeled as key populations and Habitat for this species. Primary Habitat for this species includes suitable riparian Habitat with secondary Habitats including adjacent upland areas. Because the arroyo toad requires very specific breeding Habitat conditions, only occurs within a few locations, and uses a well-defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of primary breeding Habitat and adjacent upland areas, and species-specific Conservation measures. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for arroyo toad will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Arroyo toad located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: least 1,602 acres of suitable breeding Habitat (riparian scrub, woodlands and forests, meadows and marshes, and alluvial fan scrub Habitat). Suitable breeding Habitat for the arroyo toad includes low-gradient (usually less than 2 percent), sandy stream reaches that often (although not necessarily annually) support shallow pools with little current that persist for at least three months during the spring and summer. least nine Core Areas which include portions of San Juan Creek (1,414 acres), Los Alamos Creek (7,898 acres), San Jacinto River (3,096 acres), Indian Creek (5,973 acres), Bautista Creek (3,148 acres), Wilson Creek (2,631 acres), Temecula Creek (5,663 acres), Arroyo Seco (2,798 acres), and Vail Lake (1,017 acres)(as discussed below). least 7,005 acres of necessary suitable upland Habitat as defined within the species account, adjacent to San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, and Vail Lake, including agricultural lands, woodlands and forests, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and grasslands. s for arroyo toad will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Arroyo toad Conservation for the arroyo toad will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 8,607 acres of suitable Conserved breeding and adjacent upland Habitat within nine Core Areas which are composed of streams or rivers with adjacent uplands within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are not necessarily connected to one another, but potential Linkages exist. In addition, surveys for arroyo toad will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Arroyo toad locations identified as a result of survey efforts will be conserved in accordance with the procedures described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas, given existing constraints and activities covered under the MSHCP. At a minimum, these areas will include portions of San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, and Vail Lake, which are important to the arroyo toad. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will maintain breeding populations at a minimum of 80 percent of the conserved breeding locations as measured by the presence/absence of juveniles toads, Approximately 296 acres (16 percent) of occupied and modeled suitable breeding Habitat and 2,321 (25 percent) of occupied and modeled suitable upland Habitat adjacent to breeding Habitat (2,617 acres total [23 percent]), would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Outlying areas will be subject to surveys and protection. Because the location of these occupied areas is yet unknown, the following gaps are identified. Gaps in modeled suitable Habitat coverage occur within the San Jacinto and Santa Margarita Watershed areas. Gaps within the San Jacinto area primarily occur on Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in-holdings along Bautista Creek (Sections 27, 26, 34, and 35 [T.5S., R.1W.] and Section 1 [T.6S., R.1E.]) and on forest in-holdings (Sections 17, 18, 19, ad 20 [T.5S., R.2E.] and Section 13 [T.5S., R.1.E.]) and other areas (Sections 10, 11, 14, and 15 [T.5S., R.1E.]) along the San Jacinto River. Gaps within the Santa Margarita Watershed area primarily occur on forest service in-holdings along Arroyo Seco Creek in the vicinity of Crosley Homestead (Sections 25 and 36 [T.8S., R.1W.], Sections 1 and 2 [T.9S., R1W.], and Section 31 [T.8S., R.1E.]) and other areas along Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 1 to 5 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area, given existing constraints and activities covered under the MSHCP. At a minimum, these areas will include portions of San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Tenaja Creek, Los Alamos Creek, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, and Vail Lake, which are important to the arroyo toad. The ecological processes and breeding populations will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, farming, mining, grazing, recreation, and predation. FINAL MSHCP 9-41

42 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: locations identified as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the Criteria Area, given existing constraints and activities covered under the MSHCP. At a minimum, these areas will include portions of San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, and Vail Lake, which are important to the arroyo toad. tadpoles, or egg masses across any five consecutive years. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. Temecula Creek in the Aguanga Valley (Sections 19, 28, 29, 33, and 34 [T.8S., R.1E.]) although the main creek areas are included with minimum 1,000-foot buffers. NOTE: Maintaining or, if feasible, restoring ecological processes within the MSHCP Conservation Area may include: allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial fan Habitat, and other riparian Habitat; careful planning and design of existing and future authorized used that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water Conservation, and sand and gravel mining; controlling or removing known threats from important arroyo toad creeks and rivers (i.e., portions of San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, and Vail Lake), including, but not limited to, eliminating non-native fishes and bullfrogs; restoring natural hydrologic processes; limiting livestock access to streams, creeks, ponds, and pools; limiting recreational use of certain areas; altering water use; controlling farming and agricultural practices within and adjacent to occupied Habitat or upstream of occupied Habitat; controlling weed abatement, discing, and pesticide/herbicide use adjacent and upstream of occupied Habitat, and; removing exotic vegetation. FINAL MSHCP 9-42

43 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 6: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain breeding populations at a minimum of 80 percent of the conserved breeding locations as measured by the presence/absence of juveniles toads (roughly 10 to 30 mm [Sweet 1993]), tadpoles, or egg masses across any 5 consecutive years. California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii) 3 The California red-legged frog has narrow Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area, typically being restricted to the lowland streams, wetlands, and pools where dense vegetation surrounds relatively deep water with small (<300 km 2 ) watersheds. They also require adjacent upland areas to move between suitable breeding sites. Currently, the known distribution of red-legged frogs within the Plan Area is limited to the Santa Rosa Plateau (Cole Creek). Suitable plateau and drainage Habitat and connections to other suitable Habitat in the southern Santa Ana Mountains has been delineated for this species. Primary breeding Habitat for this species includes suitable wetland Habitat with secondary Habitats including adjacent upland areas. Because the red-legged frog requires very specific breeding Habitat conditions, only occurs within a single location, and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of primary breeding Habitat and adjacent upland areas, and species-specific Conservation measures. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for California red-legged frog will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). California red-legged frogs located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: least 766 acres of occupied and historic breeding Habitat (riparian scrub, woodlands and forests, open water, and playas and vernal pools). Breeding Habitat for the red-legged frog includes cool, deep pools, lowland streams, and other wetlands where dense vegetation surrounds relatively them. These areas generally have a small (<300 km2) watershed. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Core Areas in the Santa Rosa Plateau (9,028 acres) and the southern Santa Ana Mountains (30,964 acres), and the intervening lands which shall provide movement between the Core Areas. The intervening lands are primarily situated around Avenoloca Mesa, Redonda Mesa, slopes and foothills of Squaw Mountain, and Alamos Canyon. least 39,147 acres of upland Habitat adjacent to occupied or suitable breeding Habitat. These areas are situated around the Santa Rosa Plateau, southern Santa Ana Mountains, and intervening lands including Avenoloca Mesa, Redonda Mesa, slopes and foothills of Squaw Mountain, Alamos Canyon and environs. Upland Habitats include woodlands and forests, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and grasslands. s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present Conservation for the California red-legged frog will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 39,913 acres of suitable Conserved primary breeding Habitat and Conserved secondary upland Habitat within 2 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are connected by a large interstitial area which has small drainages and large upland areas which will need to be protected as they are determined to be important to red-legged frog. In addition, surveys for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Red-legged frog locations identified as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers Incidental Take of the California red-legged frog is difficult to quantify due to a relative lack of species occurrence data. However, the maximum level of Take of the red-legged frog can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Approximately 47 acres (6 percent) of probable suitable primary breeding Habitat and 9,371 (19 percent) of suitable secondary upland movement Habitat (9,418 acres total [19 percent]), would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 1** General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. Reserve Managers will determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, mining, human collection, and predation. FINAL MSHCP 9-43

44 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Red-legged frog locations identified as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the Criteria Area. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. shall determine if successful reproduction is occurring as measured by the presence/ absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). Furthermore, the Area Plan is contiguous with suitable Habitat in Orange and San Diego counties. Objective 6: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, determine if successful reproduction is occurring as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first five years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee as described in Section 6.6, MSHCP Volume I (but not less frequently than every 8 years). coast range newt (Taricha tarosa tarosa) 3 The coast range newt has narrow Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area, typically being restricted to "pools and runs" stream configurations and adjacent upland Habitats within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion. Currently, the known distribution of coast range newt within the Plan Area is restricted to the Santa Ana Mountains. Because the coast range newt requires very specific breeding Habitat conditions, only occurs within a few locations, and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of primary breeding Habitat and adjacent upland areas, and species-specific Conservation measures. least 8,441 acres of primary breeding Habitat (playa and vernal pools, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and water) within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion. Within the greater Habitat categories, coast range newt breeding activities are limited to streams and creeks which may form "pool and runs" hydrology. least 76,579 acres of the secondary Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial scrub, and oak woodlands and forests) within the Santa Ana Mountains Conservation for the coast range newt will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 8,441 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 76,579 acres of secondary upland Conserved Habitat within one Core Area (Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion) within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Area provides connections between seasonally preferred Habitats. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain a 100-meter buffer around breeding Habitat areas identified above; maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas Incidental Take of the coast range newt is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of the species distribution within the Plan Area, and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the maximum level of Take of the coast range newt can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take None 8 1** General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. Reserve Managers will determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of FINAL MSHCP 9-44

45 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: Objective 5: Bioregion. Secondary Habitat is limited to a 2 km buffer around streams and creeks. A 100-meter buffer, where possible, will be established around emergent vegetation areas identified in Objective 1 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area for water quality purposes. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include creeks, streams, ponds, and other wetland Habitat in the Cleveland National Forest (Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion) and Santa Rosa Plateau (includes portions of Cole Creek). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain occupancy of at least 75 percent of the occupied coast range newt Habitat and determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of larvae or egg masses once a year for the first five years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee as described in Section 6.6, MSHCP Volume I (but not less frequently than every 8 years). within the MSHCP Conservation Area; minimally these areas will include creeks, streams, ponds, and other wetland Habitat in the Cleveland National Forest (Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion) and Santa Rosa Plateau (includes portions of Cole Creek); and maintain occupancy of at least 75 percent of the occupied Coast range newt Habitat and determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of larvae or egg masses once a year for the first five years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee. The current population size and distribution of the coast range newt is unknown. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in Orange and San Diego counties. consistent with the Plan. Approximately 4,011 acres (32 percent) of potential primary breeding Habitat and 32,069 acres (30 percent) of secondary upland Habitat for the coast range newt would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, mining, human collection, and predation. mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana mucosa) 3 The mountain yellow-legged frog has narrow Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area, typically being restricted to streams, creeks, and small pools in the San Jacinto Mountains that contain dependable, year-round quantities of cool water. Within the Plan Area, yellow-legged frogs have been recently observed (i.e., within the last 7 years) only in upper reaches and tributaries of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River. Specific locations include: Dark Canyon, Hall Canyon, Fuller Mill Creek, and the North Fork above least 335 acres of primary breeding Habitat above 370 meters (riparian scrub woodland and forest) within the San Jacinto Mountains. Primary breeding Habitat for the yellow-legged frog includes aquatic Habitats with gently sloping shore margins that receive some sunlight, and clear cool water. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Conservation for the mountain yellow-legged frog will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 335 acres of suitable Conserved primary and 32,399 acres of Conserved secondary Habitat within one Core Area. In addition, surveys for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat Approximately 138 acres (29 percent) of suitable primary breeding Habitat and 11,459 (26 percent) of potentially suitable secondary Habitat (11,597 acres total [26 percent]), would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 1** General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes (with particularly emphasis on removing non-native predatory fish and bullfrogs) within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include areas above 370 meters at the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Fuller Mill Creek, and Hall Canyon above Lake Fulmor. Reserve Managers will maintain successful reproduction within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile FINAL MSHCP 9-45

46 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Highway 74. Historically, yellow-legged frogs were also observed in Strawberry Creek, Indian Creek, Black Mountain Creek, and lower sections of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River. Because the mountain yellowlegged frog presently occurs at only a few locations in very low numbers, requires specific breeding Habitat conditions, and is narrowly distributed, this species will require site-specific considerations, protection of primary breeding Habitat and adjacent upland areas, and speciesspecific Conservation measures. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for mountain yellow-legged frog will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Mountain yellow-legged frog located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: Objective 5: Core Areas above 370 meters at the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Hall Canyon, and Fuller Mill Creek and other perennial water streams in the San Jacinto Mountains. least 32,399 acres of the secondary wooded Habitat above 370 meters (oak woodlands and forests and and montane coniferous forest) within the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Hall Canyon, and Fuller Mill Creek and other perennial water streams in the San Jacinto Mountains. s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the amphibian species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Mountain yellow-legged frog localities identified as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes (with particular emphasis on removing non-native predatory fish and bullfrogs) within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the Criteria Area. At a minimum, these areas will include areas above 370 meters at the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Fuller Mill Creek, and Hall Canyon above Lake Fulmor. is present (see Amphibian Species Area Map, Figure 6-3 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Mountain yellow-legged frog localities identified as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes (with particularly emphasis on removing non-native predatory fish and bullfrogs) within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas. At a minimum, these areas will include areas above 370 meters at the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Fuller Mill Creek, and Hall Canyon above Lake Fulmor. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain successful reproduction as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of water quality and predation. Objective 6: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain successful reproduction as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first five years FINAL MSHCP 9-46

47 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee as described in Section 6.6 (but not less frequently than every 8 years). western spadefoot (Scaphiopus hammondii) 2 The western spadefoot population is patchily but widely distributed throughout the Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. Primary Habitat for this species includes suitable breeding Habitat below 1500 meters (i.e.,vernal pools or other standing water that is free of exotic species) with secondary Habitats including adjacent chaparral, sage scrub, grassland, and alluvial scrub Habitats. It is assumed that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with sitespecific requirements (e.g., vernal pools) if management addresses the threats of increased roads (limit roads or provide toad walls and culverts for safe dispersal), exotic species (e.g., bass, sunfish, and bullfrogs), and destruction of Habitat. Management of Habitat for a wide variety of upland species such as the Stephens kangaroo rat, Los Angeles pocket mouse, and a variety of vernal pool-associated plants and invertebrates will benefit the western spadefoot. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area approximately 6,749 acres of primary Habitat for the western spadefoot. Suitable primary Habitat is limited to playas and vernal pools below 1,500 meters within chaparral, sage scrub, grassland, and alluvial scrub Habitats. least six Core Areas at the Santa Rosa Plateau (8,360 acres), San Jacinto River (7,680 acres), Salt Creek (320 acres), Skunk Hollow (approx. 10 acres), and Hemet (approx. 100 acres) areas. Conserve additional breeding Habitat in the form of isolated pools, road ruts, or creeks at Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, the Badlands, Potrero Valley, the Banning Bench, Sage/Vail Lake, San Jacinto Mountains, and Anza Valley. least 377,183 acres of suitable secondary Habitat adjacent to protected primary Habitat. Suitable secondary Habitat includes chaparral, grasslands, sage scrub, and alluvial scrub Habitats below 1,500 meters. These Habitats will be preserved throughout the Plan Area in large blocks representing all portions of the Plan Area. The majority of Habitat Conservation will occur in large core blocks throughout the Plan Area, including Santa Rosa Plateau, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, the Badlands, Potrero Valley, the Banning Bench, Sage/Vail Lake,San Jacinto Mountains, and Anza Valley. These areas are anticipated to fulfill the remaining life history Conservation for the western spadefoot will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 6,749 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 377,183 acres of suitable secondary Habitat within the San Jacinto Foothills and Riverside Lowlands Bioregions below 1,500 meters within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the western spadefoot is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. Approximately 1,162 acres (15 percent) of potential primary Habitat and 314,381 acres (45 percent) of secondary Habitat for the western spadefoot would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Fifteen (48 percent) of the 31 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 2 (13 percent) are mapped within existing agriculture and 5 (33 percent) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages. None 8 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve Habitat quality at all locales within the MSHCP Conservation Area by preserving the watersheds and hydrological processes within the vernal pools, temporary ponds, and drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the sites and vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create primary Habitats within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will maintain successful reproduction at a minimum of 75% of the conserved breeding locations as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile toads once every 8 years. The hydrological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology, non-native plant species, farming, mining, grazing, off-road vehicle use and predation. FINAL MSHCP 9-47

48 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES requirements of the species including aestivating, dispersing, and foraging Habitat. Objective 4 : Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain successful reproduction at a minimum of 75 percent of the conserved breeding locations as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile toads once every 8 years. REPTILES Belding s orange-throated whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus beldingi) 1 The Belding's orange-throated whiptail population is widespread throughout the Plan Area. The orange-throated whiptail occurs in a wide variety of Habitats but is more closely tied to coastal sage scrub and chaparral Habitats with less than 90 percent vegetative cover. The species is common in most areas of the Plan Area within the central basin and foothills areas. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain adequate Habitat for this species, although management of Habitat for species such as the Stephens' kangaroo rat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, and Los Angeles pocket mouse may benefit the orange-throated whiptail. least 226,313 acres of coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, chaparral, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and riparian scrub and woodlands within the Riverside lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions below 1,040 meters. The majority of Habitat Conservation will occur in large core blocks throughout the Plan Area. least nine Core Areas including Santa Rosa Plateau (8,360 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,070 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres), and Anza Valley (4,290 acres) and numerous smaller Proposed and Existing Noncontiguous Habitat Blocks. Conservation for the orange-throated whiptail will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 226,313 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 9 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the orange-throated whiptail is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. Approximately 155,483 acres (41 percent) of potential Habitat for the orange-throated whiptail would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Seventy-seven (55 percent) of the 140 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, of these, 16 are mapped within existing agriculture and 22 are located in developed, disturbed land, or water categories. The remaining 39 (51 percent) are in native Habitats. None 8 General Management Measures 1, 3 and 4. coastal western whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus) 1 The coastal western whiptail population is widespread throughout the Plan Area. The coastal western whiptail occurs in a wide variety of Habitats including coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan scrub, woodlands, grasslands, playas, and respective ecotones between these Habitats. The species is common in most areas of the Plan Area, including the fringes of urbanized areas. Existing data suggests it may occur at all elevation least 142,117 acres of coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan scrub, woodlands, grasslands, and playas. The majority of Habitat Conservation will occur in large blocks within the Plan Area. Conservation for the western whiptail will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 142,117 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 13 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Approximately 182,962 acres (56 percent) of potential Habitat for the western whiptail would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Thirty-six (67 percent) of the 54 precision code "1" or "2" None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-48

49 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES levels within the Plan Area. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain this species, although management of Habitat for species such as the California gnatcatcher, Stephens' kangaroo rat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, and Los Angeles pocket mouse may benefit the coastal western whiptail. least 13 Core Areas at the Santa Rosa Plateau (8,360 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,020 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres), Anza Valley (4,290 acres), Agua Tibia Wilderness (10,460 acres), Santa Ana Mountain foothills (71,490 acres), Santa Ana River (10,740 acres), and Paloma Valley/Hogbacks (5,050 acres). Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the western whiptail is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 16 (44 percent) are mapped within existing agriculture, 6 (17 percent) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages, and 14 (39 percent) are in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, woodlands and forests, and non-native grassland Habitats. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Linkages between large Habitat areas, including contiguous uplands from Estelle Mountain to Wildomar, Gavilan Hills, San Jacinto River, Kolb Creek/Arroyo Seco, Temecula Creek, Tucalota Creek, Wilson Creek, Tule Creek, and San Gorgonio Wash. granite night lizard (Xantusia henshawi henshawi) 2 Granite night lizards occur in localized populations distributed east of Interstate 215, but primarily within the eastern portion of the Plan Area. Localized populations are often found in flaking granite, rock outcrops, and boulderfields, most commonly with chaparral, sage scrub, mixed conifer forest, and oak woodland. Though they primarily occupy these features, granite night lizards have been documented in outlying Habitat. No specific management regimes have been identified to maintain adequate Habitat for this species. Because granite night lizards occur in localized conditions and secretive and difficult to detect, it will require some site specific management or monitoring activities. least 297,143 acres of chaparral, sage scrub, coniferous forest, and oak woodland in the eastern portion of the Plan Area (east of Interstate 215). Acreage conserved will include Linkages between conserved areas, and the rocky outcrops, flaking granite, and boulderfields that are a limiting Habitat feature for this species. least 9 Core Areas at the Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,070 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake/Wilson Valley (50,000 acres), Agua Tibia Mountains (10,460 acres), San Jacinto Mountains (140,000 acres), and Anza Valley (4,290 acres). Conservation for the granite night lizard will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 297,143 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 9 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat distributed throughout the MSHCP Conservation Area and the species range within the Plan Area. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. Although the current population size of the granite night lizard is unknown, the general distribution is known. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. The Incidental Take of the granite night lizard is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of the species distribution within the Plan Area and the fact that losses may be masked by natural fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the maximum level of Take for this species can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for the species. Approximately 197,038 acres (40 percent) of potential Habitat for the granite night lizard would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Take consistent with the Plan. Twenty-eight (74 percent) of the 47 precision code "1" or "2" records None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to Habitat destruction, agriculture, predation and harassment by cats and dogs, brush management and collecting. FINAL MSHCP 9-49

50 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 5 (18 percent) are mapped within existing developed or disturbed land coverages. The remaining 23 (82 percent) are in natural Habitats. granite spiny lizard (Sceloporus orcutti) 1 The granite spiny lizard population is widespread throughout the Plan Area. The granite spiny lizard occurs in a wide variety of Habitats but is restricted to granite outcrops and boulder fields. The species is common in most areas of the Plan Area where granite outcrops and boulder fields occur and is well distributed throughout, occurring at all elevation levels. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain adequate Habitat for this species, although management of Habitat for a wide variety of upland species such as the California gnatcatcher, Stephens' kangaroo rat, forest species, Los Angeles pocket mouse may benefit the granite spiny lizard, where the managed species co-occur with granite outcrops and boulder fields. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area granite outcrops and boulder fields within at least 408,216 acres of chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, pinyon juniper scrub, montane coniferous forest, and woodlands and forests in large blocks throughout the Plan Area. least 12 Core Areas at the Santa Rosa Plateau (8,360 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,070 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres), Aqua Tibia Mountains (10,460 acres), San Jacinto Mountains (140,000 acres), Santa Ana Mountains (71,490 acres), and Anza Valley (4,290 acres). Conservation for the granite spiny lizard will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 408,216 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 12 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the granite spiny lizard is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. Approximately 237,637 acres (37 percent)of potential Habitat for the granite spiny lizard would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Seventy (68 percent) of the 103 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 13 (19 percent) are mapped within existing agriculture and 18 (26 percent) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages. The remaining 39 (56 percent) are in natural Habitats. None 8 General Management Measure 1. northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber) 2 The northern red-diamond rattlesnake is widely distributed throughout the Plan Area. Data collected for this species shows a patchy distribution within the Plan Area without clearly defined Core Areas. The red-diamond rattlesnake is often found in areas with dense vegetation especially chaparral and sage scrub up to 1,520 meters in elevation. There are no definable Core Areas for this species. It is anticipated that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements (e.g., hibernacula). least 338,672 acres of chaparral and sage scrub within the Plan Area below 1,520 meters. Acreage conserved include large core blocks within the MSHCP Conservation Area representing a wide range of elevations. least 10 Core Areas at the Santa Ana Mountains (71,490 acres), Agua Tibia Mountains (10,460 acres), San Jacinto Mountains (140,000 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,070 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Conservation for the northern red-diamond rattlesnake will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 338,672 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 12 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the red-diamond rattlesnake is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR The Incidental Take of northern red-diamond rattlesnake is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of the species distribution within the Plan Area and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the maximum level of Take of the northern red-diamond rattlesnake can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. Approximately 214,769 acres (39 percent) of potential Habitat for the None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to off-road vehicle activity, brush management activities, predation by domestic animals and road kills. FINAL MSHCP 9-50

51 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres), and Anza Valley (4,290 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Linkages between Core Areas (including hibernacula that are a limiting Habitat feature for this species). Connections between the Core Areas will be facilitated by upland and riparian connections from Estelle Mountain to Wildomar, Gavilan Hills, San Jacinto River, Kolb Creek/Arroyo Seco, Temecula Creek, Tucalota Creek, Wilson Creek, Tule Creek, and San Gorgonio Wash. database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. northern red-diamond rattlesnake would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Thirty-two (62 percent) of the 52 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, of these, 6 (19 percent) are mapped within existing agricultural areas and 9 (28 percent) are mapped in residential/urban/exotic/pond areas. San Bernardino mountain kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra) 2 The mountain kingsnake populations are narrowly defined within the Plan Area. The San Diego Mountain kingsnake is only known to occur within the Santa Ana Mountains, Aqua-Tibia Mountains, and Desert Transition Bioregions above 500 meters in elevation (Fisher and Case, 1997). The San Bernardino mountain kingsnake is only known to occur within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains bioregions above 1,500 meters (Fisher and Case, 1997). Both species are restricted to rock outcrops, talus, and steep shady canyons within coniferous and mixed coniferous, hardwood, or riparian woodlands and other edge Habitats when associated with coniferous Habitat. It is anticipated that these species' will respond to a landscape level of management. Because the San Diego and San Bernardino mountain kingsnakes are largely restricted to US Forest Service lands, coverage is dependent on management commitments from the US Forest Service. least 22,159 acres of montane coniferous forest, deciduous woodlands and forest, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest between above 1500 meters in elevation within the San Jacinto Mountains and San Bernardino Mountains Bioregions for the San Bernardino mountain kingsnake. Conserved Habitat will include Linkages between conserved areas. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area suitable microhabitat (e.g., rock outcrops, talus, and steep shady canyons) within coniferous and mixed coniferous, hardwood, or riparian woodlands. Conservation for the San Bernardino mountain kingsnake will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 22,159 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 2 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in San Bernardino County. Approximately 7,571 acres (26 percent) of potential Habitat for the San Bernardino mountain kingsnake would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to logging and firewood harvesting, removal of rock outcrops and ground debris and human collection. San Diego banded gecko (Coleonyx variegatus abbottii) 2 The San Diego banded gecko population is patchily but widely distributed throughout the Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. The San Diego banded gecko occurs in a wide variety of sage scrub and chaparral Habitats, where suitable cover exists associated with granitic outcrops and boulder fields where there is also ground debris (i.e., yucca stalks). There are no definable key or core populations for this species within the Plan Area. Because it requires scattered to extensive least 147,066 acres of sage scrub and chaparral below 1,520 meters in elevation in large core blocks within the Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 7 Core Areas at the San Jacinto foothills (149,750 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Conservation for the San Diego banded gecko will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 147,066 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 7 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Approximately 125,771 acres (46 percent) of potential Habitat for the San Diego banded gecko would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Six (40 percent) of the 15 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the San Diego banded gecko within Core Areas for this species with regard to illegal collecting, Habitat destruction (including dirt road and trail construction), artificial lighting, non-native predators, introduction of exotic grasses, and off-road vehicle usage. FINAL MSHCP 9-51

52 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES exfoliated rocky outcrops with weathered, well-drained, coarse to rocky sandy loam soil, and healthy, mature sage scrub and chaparral Habitat with an open understory, the San Diego banded gecko will require site-specific considerations and management conditions. Lake (29,070 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Santa Ana Mountains (71,490 acres), and Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres). Connections between these blocks will be facilitated by upland and riparian connections from Estelle Mountain to Wildomar, Gavilan Hills, San Jacinto River, Temecula Creek, and Tucalota Creek. Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size and distribution of the San Diego banded gecko is unknown, however the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 1 (17 percent) are mapped within existing agriculture and 1 (17 percent) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area suitable microhabitat (e.g., exfoliating granite outcrops, boulderfields, ground debris, yucca stems) within the general Habitats to maintain areas for daily cover, hibernation and reproduction purposes. San Diego horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei) 1 The San Diego horned lizard population is widespread throughout the Plan Area. The horned lizard occurs primarily in scrub, chaparral, and grassland Habitats. The species is common in most areas of the Plan Area except where adjacent to urban situations. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain this species, although management of Habitat for species such as the California gnatcatcher, Stephens' kangaroo rat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, and Los Angeles pocket mouse may benefit the horned lizard. least 407,036 acres of scrub, chaparral, woodland and grassland Habitat. The majority of Habitat Conservation will occur in large blocks within the Plan Area. least 13 Core Areas at the Santa Rosa Plateau (8,360 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (29,070 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,180 acres), San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris (17,470 acres), the Badlands (24,920 acres), Potrero Valley (10,000 acres), the Banning Bench (9,610 acres), Sage/Vail Lake (50,000 acres), Anza Valley (4,290 acres), Agua Tibia Wilderness (10,460 acres), Paloma Valley/ Hogbacks (5,050 acres), Santa Ana Mountain foothills (71,490 acres), and Santa Ana River (10,740 acres). Conservation for the San Diego horned lizard will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 407,036 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 13 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size of the horned lizard is unknown, but the general distribution is, and a relatively sizable database is present within the UCR database. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. Approximately 322,536 acres (44 percent) of potential Habitat for the San Diego horned lizard would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Seventy-eight (56 percent) of the 135 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However of these, 9 (12 percent) are mapped within existing agriculture and 20 (26 percent) are located in developed or disturbed Habitat coverages. Forty-nine (63 percent) are in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, woodlands and forests, and non-native grassland Habitats. None 8 General Management Measures 1, 3 and 4. San Diego mountain kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata pulchra) 2 The mountain kingsnake populations are narrowly defined within the Plan Area. The San Diego mountain kingsnake is only known to occur within the Santa Ana Mountains, Aqua-Tibia Mountains, and Desert Transition Bioregions above 500 meters in elevation (Fisher and Case, 1997). least 7,708 acres of montane coniferous forest, deciduous woodlands and forest, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest above 500 meters in elevation within the Santa Ana Mountains, Agua-Tibia Conservation for the San Diego mountain kingsnake will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 7,708 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within 3 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks Approximately 2,723 acres (26 percent) of potential Habitat for the San Diego mountain kingsnake would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to logging and firewood harvesting, removal of rock outcrops and ground debris, and human collection. FINAL MSHCP 9-52

53 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES The San Bernardino Mountain kingsnake is only known to occur within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains bioregions above 1,500 meters (Fisher and Case, 1997). Both species are restricted to rock outcrops, talus, and steep shady canyons within coniferous and mixed coniferous, hardwood, or riparian woodlands and other edge Habitats when associated with coniferous Habitat. It is anticipated that these species' will respond to a landscape level of management. Because the San Diego and San Bernardino mountain kingsnakes are largely restricted to US Forest Service lands, coverage is dependent on management commitments from the US Forest Service. Mountains, and Desert Transition Bioregions for the San Diego mountain kingsnake. Conserved Habitat will include Linkages between conserved areas. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area suitable microhabitat (e.g., rock outcrops, talus, and steep shady canyons) within coniferous and mixed coniferous, hardwood, or riparian woodlands. of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside and San Diego counties. areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. southern rubber boa (Charina bottae umbratica) 2 The southern rubber boa population is narrowly defined within the San Jacinto Mountains. The rubber boa is often found in fallen debris, rock piles, and steep, rocky montane areas within coniferous forests, woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands above 1,540 meters in elevation. It is assumed that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements (i.e., fallen debris, rock piles) if management addresses the threats of development, firewood harvesting, poaching, off-road vehicle use, fern harvesting, commercial timber harvesting, fire management, and land exchanges. least 2,577 acres of chaparral, grassland, montane coniferous forest, deciduous woodlands, and forest above 1,540 meters in elevation within the Plan Area. Conserved Habitat will include both Linkages between conserved areas and the fallen debris and rock piles that are a limiting Habitat feature for this species. Habitat conserved for this species will be limited to large blocks within the San Jacinto Mountains. Conservation for the southern rubber boa will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 2,577 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within one Core Area (San Jacinto Mountains) within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Area provides connections between seasonally preferred Habitats. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size and distribution of the southern rubber boa is unknown. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. Incidental Take of the southern rubber boa is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of the species distribution within the Plan Area and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the maximum level of Take of the southern rubber boa can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Approximately 155 acres (5 percent) of potential Habitat for the southern rubber boa would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain sufficient suitable microhabitat sites (i.e., fallen debris, rock piles) within the general Habitats. Particular management emphasis will be given with regard to fire and fire suppression, logging and firewood harvesting, fern harvesting, commercial timber harvesting and Habitat fragmentation. southern sagebush lizard (Sceloporus graciosus vandenburgianus) 2 For purposes of this analysis, the southern sagebrush lizard population is found within the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains above 5,000 feet. The sagebrush lizard occurs primarily in open montane areas with good light and scattered low bushes. Habitats in which it is found includes montane chaparral, sage brush, hardwood and conifer forests and woodlands and juniper least 41,105 acres of chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert sage scrub, montane coniferous forest, peninsular juniper woodland, and woodlands and forest Habitats above 1,500 meters in elevation in the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains bioregions. Conserved Habitat will include both Conservation for the southern sagebrush lizard will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 41,105 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat within the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains above 1,500 meters. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the Approximately 10,246 acres (20 percent) of potential Habitat for the sagebrush lizard would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Eleven (42 percent) of None 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain sufficient suitable microhabitat sites (i.e., fallen debris, rock piles) within the general Habitats. Particular management emphasis will be given with regard to fire and fire suppression, off-road vehicle use, catastrophic fire, invasive species, human collection, predation and harassment by cats and dogs, and local isolation of populations. FINAL MSHCP 9-53

54 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES woodlands. It is anticipated that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements (i.e., fallen debris and rock piles) if management addresses the threats of catastrophic fire, off-road vehicle usage, road construction, and Habitat destruction. Linkages between conserved areas and the fallen debris and rock piles that are a limiting Habitat feature for this species. Habitat conserved for this species will be limited to large blocks within the San Jacinto Mountains. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area suitable microhabitat sites (e.g., fallen debris and rock piles) within the general Habitats. continued use of 75 percent of the Core Areas. The current population size and distribution of the sagebrush lizard is unknown, but key Habitat areas are known. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. the 26 precision code "1" or "2" records would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) 3 The western pond turtle has narrow Habitat requirements and potentially limited distribution within the Plan Area, typically being restricted to slow moving permanent or intermittent streams, small ponds, small lakes, reservoirs, and other long term water deposits, where abundant cover is available. The pond turtle may also use adjacent uplands up to 2 km from water bodies. Currently, the species is known from throughout the Plan Area, but key areas appear to be at the confluence of Temecula Creek and Murrieta Creek, Santa Ana River, Santa Rosa Plateau, and San Jacinto River. Because the pond turtle requires very specific Habitat conditions and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of primary Habitat and adjacent upland areas, and species-specific Conservation measures. least 18,289 acres of suitable primary pond turtle Habitat (open water, meadows and marshes, and riparian scrub, woodland and forest). Conservation areas will include slow moving permanent or intermittent rivers and streams, small ponds, wetlands, arroyos, vernal pools, small lakes, abandoned gravel pits, permanent stock ponds, sewage treatment lagoons, reservoirs, areas with submerged rocks and roots, emergent basking sites, partially submerged logs, emergent (matted) vegetation, rocks and mudbanks. least eight Core Areas, including but not limited to, Cajalco Creek (7,849 acres), San Mateo Creek (18,375 acres), Santa Ana River (34,598 acres), Chino Creek (2,446 acres), Temecula Creek (17,784 acres), Murrieta Creek (23,084 acres), Santa Rosa Plateau (17,187 acres), and San Jacinto River (70,294 acres). Please note that the acreages include all Habitats within the 2 kilometer buffer area and river/creek system. Conservation for the western pond turtle will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 78,288 acres of suitable Conserved wetland and upland Habitat within at least eight Core Areas which are composed of suitable occupied wetland areas and surrounding upland buffers and other large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with numerous connections of Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain continued use at a minimum of 75 percent of the conserved Core Areas as measured once every three years. The current population size of the western pond turtle is unknown, but the general distribution is, and the species is generally readily detectable. Furthermore, the Plan Area is contiguous with suitable Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties. The Incidental Take of the western pond turtle is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of western pond turtle can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. Approximately 5,331 acres (22 percent) of suitable wetland Habitat and 34,068 acres (36 percent) of suitable adjacent upland Habitat will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 3 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include portions of Temecula Creek, Santa Margarita River, Murrieta Creek, Santa Ana River, San Jacinto River, and potentially others. Maintaining ecological processes may include: allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding and Habitat regeneration within occupied and potentially suitable streams and ponds; maintaining natural hydrologic processes; limiting livestock access to streams, creeks, ponds, and pools; limiting recreational use of certain areas; altering water use; managing for urban-related predators; and removing exotic vegetation and aquatic species. Reserve Managers will ensure the continued use at a minimum of 75% of the conserved Core Areas as measured once every 3 years. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 59,999 acres of upland Habitat including grasslands, oak woodlands, chaparral, seasonal flood plains, coastal sage scrub, and other Habitats within about 2 km of water bodies within the MSHCP Conservation Area lands adjacent to the riparian woodland. FINAL MSHCP 9-54

55 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area riparian/wetland and overland dispersal Habitat along the Santa Margarita River, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, San Jacinto River, Temescal Wash, Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Canyan Creek, Sycamore Canyon Creek, Kolb Creek, Wilson Creek, Cottonwood Creek, Tule Creek, San Gorgonio Wash, Bautista Creek, Poppet Creek, portions of Diamond Valley Lake, Vail Lake, Lake Elsinore, Lake Mathews, Lake Perris, portions of Canyon Lake, and numerous creeks, pools, and other water bodies on Forest Service lands. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain continued use at a minimum of 75 percent of the conserved Core Areas as measured once every 3 years. BIRDS American bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) 2 The American bittern is sparsely-distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat, however, it is not predictably distributed within all suitable areas. It is found in margins surrounding open water bodies, and freshwater marshes where emergent vegetation is present. There are several likely Core Areas for this species based on past use by the American bittern or presence of suitable Habitat, including Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, and Collier Marsh. The breeding locations (possibly at Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area [Garrett and Dunn 1980] and Santa Ana River/Prado Basin [L. Hays, pers. obs.]) which have been documented as active or possible are located at specific sites that require Conservation. Because it is well known for using emergent Habitat but has specific breeding location requirements, it is anticipated that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site specific requirements. least 410 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the American bittern consisting of freshwater marsh. least 3 Core Areas including Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Subunit 4 of RecheCanyon/Badlands Area Plan; 2,690 acres), a possible nesting area, Santa Ana River/Prado Basin (9,670 acres), a known nesting area, and Collier Marsh (Proposed Linkage 2; 160 acres), a potential nesting area, as well as other suitable Habitat locations at Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake (Existing Core J; 24,370 acres), Lake Mathews (Existing Core C; 15,610 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), Temescal Wash (Subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan; 4,010 acres), and Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres). achieved by inclusion of at least 410 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including freshwater marsh and the three Core Areas (including the two known or possible nest sites within the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and Collier Marsh) as well as the suitable locations at Lake Skinner, Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, Temescal Wash, and Temecula Creek. The current population size of the American bittern is unknown due to its very secretive nature. About 60 acres (approximately 13 percent) of potential Habitat for the American bittern will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public areas and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Not-conserved Habitat includes the margins surrounding Hemet Lake and Lake Riverside. Covered activities in these areas will be subject to the MSHCP Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy included in Section 6.1.2, Volume I of the MSHCP which calls for avoidance and minimization of impacts to riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional Habitat and/or nesting areas in the Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake, Collier Marsh, Temescal Wash, Temecula Creek, Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, Lake Perris and Lake Skinner areas. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In order to assure the continued presence of American Bittern at a minimum of 50% of the locations in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur, Reserve Managers will demonstrate presence/ absence at least once every 8 years. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological processes on the Santa Ana River and any other river systems important to maintain the integrity of nesting sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to grazing, recreation and hunting activities, as well as pesticide use. A 100-meter buffer will be established around emergent vegetation areas identified in Objective 2 FINAL MSHCP 9-55

56 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. Objective 4: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of 50 percent of the Core Areas. bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) 1 The bald eagle has a wide distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat. It occurs or has occurred at every open water body within the Plan Area. It uses suitable Habitat predictably and responds well to available suitable Habitat. It occurs within the Plan Area predominantly as a winter visitor with casual occurrences in the summer of individuals that have lingered at the wintering sites. It has attempted to breed at Lake Elsinore and at Lake Skinner but has not done so successfully. least 10,340 acres of open water Habitat at the following seven open water bodies and one drainage: Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail lake, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake and Santa Ana River. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 5,520 acres of suitable riparian Habitat within the Prado Basin and Santa Ana River. A 100-meter buffer will be established around open water bodies identified in Objective 1 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. achieved by inclusion of at least 15,860 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including open water bodies and riparian Habitat within the Santa Ana River and Prado Basin. The current population size of the bald eagle is unknown because it is primarily a winter and transient visitor. However, a single pair has made repeated, but unsuccessful, attempts to breed at Lake Skinner in recent years. The estimated Take of the bald eagle is based on the acreage of potentially suitable and/or occupied Habitat. About 2,140 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat for the bald eagle will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Potential Habitat not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area includes the open water Habitat at Hemet Lake and Lake Riverside. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of bald eagle for hunting and recreational activities, as well as pesticide use. Reserve Managers (including at Lake Perris) will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer (buffering consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris), and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Bell s sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli) 2 The Bell's sage sparrow is widely but sparsely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat in the Riverside lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains, Desert Transition and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. It is absent from higher elevation Bioregions. The Bell's sage sparrow occurs within several areas that appear to be Core Areas including Jurupa Mountains, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Wasson Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau, Sedco Hills, Hogbacks, Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/Aguanga, Tule Valley, Santa Rosa Hills, Lakeview Mountains, Lake Perris, Badlands, and Box Springs Mountains. However, none of these Core Areas contains large or dense populations of the Bell's sage sparrow. The Bell's sage sparrow is a year-round resident within the Plan Area. Because it is well known for using coastal sage scrub and chaparral Habitats, occurs widely but sparsely and well scattered within these Habitats in the Riverside lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, Desert Transition, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, it is anticipated that this species will respond least 245,750 acres of suitable Habitat for Bell's sage sparrow including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and desert scrubs in Riverside lowland, Santa Ana Mountains, Desert Transition, and San Jacinto foothills Bioregions. least 12 of 14 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages for Bell's sage sparrow. Core areas will include the Jurupa Mountains (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 2; 1,230 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Sedco Hills (Proposed Linkage 8; 5,470 acres), Hogbacks (Proposed Core 2; 5,050 acres), Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/Aguanga (Proposed Core 7; 50,000 acres), achieved by inclusion of at least 245,750 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 12 of 14 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, 34 recent and high precision locations will be inside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public Lands, all of which are recorded for the suitable Habitat of Bell's sage sparrow. Conservation also will be provided for the Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and areas important for dispersal including the Jurupa Mountains, which is also conserved as a Core Area, Reche Canyon, and San Timoteo Creek areas as well as other Linkages. The current population size of the Bell's sage sparrow is unknown. However the Habitat requirements of the species and locations that constitute key populations are well documented. The Incidental Take of the Bell's sage sparrow is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of Bell's sage sparrow can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 177,440 acres of potential Habitat for the Bell's sage sparrow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 42 percent of the total potential Habitat and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 73,180 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas, which may provide None 8 Reserve Managers responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the sage sparrow Habitat within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create suitable Habitat within the Core Area to keep the coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the baseline value within the areas defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will conserve Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and other areas important for dispersal at the Jurupa Mountains, Reche Canyon, and San Timoteo Creek. Particular management emphasis will be given to alteration of the natural fire regime and predation by domestic animals within the MSHCP Conservation Area. FINAL MSHCP 9-56

57 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES well to a landscape level of management with site specific requirements. Tule Valley, (Proposed Core 6; 4,290 acres), Lakeview Mountains (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 5; 7,150 acres), Lake Perris (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), Badlands (Proposed Core 3; 24,920 acres), and Box Springs Mountains (Existing Noncontiguous Habitat Block A plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 8; 2,920 acres). some Habitat value, but will not be managed for the benefit of covered species and cannot be relied upon as conserved Habitat for the Bell's sage sparrow. These areas include the Santa Rosa Plateau, Santa Rosa Hills, and a portion of the Badlands. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and areas important for dispersal including the Jurupa Mountains, Reche Canyon, and San Timoteo Creek areas. Core Areas not conserved within Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations include the Santa Rosa Plateau and Santa Rosa Hills. A total of 64 recent and high precision point locations of the Bell's sage sparrow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations. Of these 64 point locations, 18 (18 percent) will be in the Rural/ Mountainous zone. Of the 46 (47 percent) points located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, 26 are mapped in existing residential/urban/ exotic areas. black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) (Breeding Rookeries) 2 The black-crowned night heron is relatively welldistributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat; however, it is not predictably distributed within all suitable areas. It occurs at almost all of the open water bodies where emergent or riparian vegetation is present and many of the playas and riparian drainages that may provide foraging opportunities. There are several Core Areas for this species, including Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, and Collier Marsh. The breeding locations, which have been documented as active or historic, are located at specific sites that require Conservation. Because it is well known for using emergent Habitat, riparian areas for breeding, and ponds and other aquatic Habitat for foraging, but has specific locations that are used for breeding, it is assumed that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements (e.g., breeding rookeries). least 16,560 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the black-crowned night heron including freshwater marsh, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and cismontane alkali marsh. least the 3 known and historic breeding locations in the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Subunit 4 of Reche Canyon/Badlands Area Plan; 2,690 acres), and Collier Marsh areas (Proposed Linkage 2; 160 acres). A 100-meter buffer will be established around the Core Areas identified in Objective 2 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. achieved by inclusion of at least 16,560 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including 9,840 acres of primary breeding and foraging Habitat and 6,720 acres of secondary foraging Habitat. Additionally, the three core known or potential breeding locations, Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Collier Marsh, and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area within large blocks of Habitat are included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. As these Core Areas are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area, a 100-meter buffer will be established around each Core Areas. The current population size of the black-crowned night-heron is unknown. The Incidental Take of the black-crowned night-heron is difficult to quantify at this time owing to our limited knowledge of the precise location and extent of nesting sites and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the level of Take of black-crowned night-heron can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will be impacted or become unsuitable for this species. About 2,840 acres (22 percent) of potential primary breeding and foraging Habitat for the black-crowned night-heron will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/ Quasi-Public Lands. Approximately 1,160 acres (14 percent) of potential None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional nesting areas in the Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake, Collier Marsh, Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, and Lake Skinner areas. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time nest sites in the reserve area. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining hydrological process, specifically seasonal flows in the Santa Ana River. FINAL MSHCP 9-57

58 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES secondary foraging Habitat for the black-crowned night-heron will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands. This comprises approximately 19 percent of the total potential Habitat. No Take of nesting colonies will occur. The estimate of Incidental Take is consistent with the anticipated land uses and the application of the riparian/riverine area and vernal pool avoidance and land use adjacency policies/guidelines. black swift (Cypseloides niger) - breeding 1 The black swift has been recorded in very low numbers spread widely over the Plan Area. Almost all of the observations are of migrating individuals except for the vicinity of the known nesting location in the San Jacinto Mountains. It will forage on the wing in every Habitat available within the Plan Area. It has very specialized nest site requirements that only occur in one or possibly two locations within the Plan Area both of which are located within the San Bernardino National Forest. For foraging purposes, it can be managed on a landscape level. The black swift is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. Include within the MSHCP Conservation area at least 34,020 acres of deciduous woodland and forest and montane coniferous forest within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains Bioregions to provide breeding and foraging Habitat, including the known nesting location of the black swift at Tahquitz Creek within the San Jacinto Wilderness Area and the potential nesting location at the north fork of the San Jacinto River in the San Jacinto Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 34,020 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat, including montane coniferous woodland and deciduous woodland and forest Habitats of the San Jacinto Mountains and San Bernardino Bioregions. In addition, the one known and one potential nest site will be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the black swift within the Plan Area is unknown. The Incidental Take of the black swift is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of black swift can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat. Approximately 12,270 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for the black swift will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Land designations and individuals within this area will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. No known nesting locations will be subject to Take. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve managers will manage the known and future nesting locations of this species where proximate to existing or proposed recreational activities, particularly trail systems. burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) 3 The burrowing owl is narrowly distributed at relatively few locations within the Plan Area in suitable Habitat. Although the preferred Habitat, grassland and some forms of agriculture land, is well distributed, the recent locations of the burrowing owl are clumped in only a few locations. Because this species requires specific soil and micro- Habitat conditions, occurs in few locations within a broad Habitat category, requires a relatively large home range to support its life history requirements, occurs in relatively low numbers, and is semi-colonial, the burrowing owl will least 27,470 acres of suitable primary Habitat for the burrowing owl including grasslands. least 5 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. Core areas may include the following: (1) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres); (2) playa west of Hemet (Proposed achieved by inclusion of at least 27,470 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 22,120 acres of suitable secondary Conserved Habitat and 5 of 6 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, 16 recent and high precision locations will be inside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public Lands. Conservation The Incidental Take of the burrowing owl is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution within the Plan Area and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the maximum level of Take of burrowing owl can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to Habitat loss and use of rodenticides and pesticides. Reserve Managers will conduct presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl where potential Habitat occurs within the MSHCP Conservation Area prior to conducting activities that may negatively affect the burrowing owl. s will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided as described in the BMP (Appendix C). Passive relocation (use of one way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present FINAL MSHCP 9-58

59 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES require site-specific considerations and management conditions. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for burrowing owl will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the burrowing owl survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Burrowing Owl Area Map, Figure 6-4 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Burrowing owls located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: Objective 5: Noncontiguous Habitat Block 7; 1,250 acres); (3) San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake area including Lake Perris area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres); (4) Lake Mathews (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 2; 23,710 acres); and (5) along the Santa Ana River (9,670 acres). The Core Areas should support a combined total breeding population of approximately 120 burrowing owls with no fewer than five pairs in any one Core area. least 22,120 acres of suitable secondary Habitat for the burrowing owl including playas and vernal pools, and agriculture outside of the Core Areas identified above. Areas where additional suitable Habitat could be conserved include west of the Jurupa Mountains, near Temescal Wash (i.e., vicinity of Alberhill), near Temecula Creek, within the Lakeview Mountains, Banning, the Badlands, Gavilan Hills, and Quail Valley. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known nesting locations of the burrowing owl at Lake Perris, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife area, Lake Skinner area, the area around Diamond Valley Lake, playa west of Hemet, Lakeview Mountains, Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain Reserve and Sycamore Canyon Regional Park. s for burrowing owl will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the burrowing owl survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Burrowing Owl Area Map, Figure 6-4 of the MSHCP, Volume I). The locations of this species determined as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I and the guidance provided below: also will be provided for the Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and areas important for dispersal as described above. The current population size of the burrowing owl is unknown; however, the foraging and nesting Habitat requirements are well defined. s will be conducted and locations of owls will be conserved in accordance with procedures described in Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. The Conservation Strategy of this species includes pre-construction surveys of potential Habitat areas and Conservation as appropriate until sufficient Conservation is attained because it occurs in grassland Habitats that are not relatively abundant within the MSHCP Conservation Area and the distribution of the species within the Plan Area is not well known. These surveys will provide the information to determine whether the area is currently being used by the species and will supplement the known locations. Translocation of burrowing owls may be used if necessary to establish colonies in currently unoccupied areas. become unsuitable for this species. About 82,490 acres (75 percent) of the primary potential Habitat for the burrowing owl will be outside of the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public lands and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. About 101,400 acres (82 percent) of the secondary potential Habitat for the burrowing owl will be outside of the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. A total of 22 point localities recorded within the UCR database will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. Core Areas not conserved include Valle Vista. Smaller numbers of clustered locations of burrowing owls that will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands, include those locations at the area west of the Jurupa Mountains, San Jacinto, Rancho California area (Long Canyon and De Portola Road), and March ARB. Historically, there were a number of locations concentrated within the Moreno Valley area, however due to the age of the location and the development within the area, the number currently within this area is unknown and receives no Conservation within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Individual locations that are outside the MSHCP Conservation Area include locations at Beaumont, Banning, and Murrieta. outside the nesting season. Translocation sites for the burrowing owl will be created in the reserve for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be identified, taking into consideration unoccupied Habitat areas, presence of burrowing mammals, existing colonies and effects to other Covered Species. The Wildlife Agencies will concur with the site selection prior to translocation site development. FINAL MSHCP 9-59

60 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted utilizing accepted protocols as follows. If burrowing owls are detected on the project site then the action(s) taken will be as follows: If the site is within the Criteria Area, then at least 90 percent of the area with long-term Conservation value will be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Otherwise: 1) If the site contains, or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable Habitat or the survey reveals that the site and the surrounding area supports fewer than 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on-site burrowing owls will be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols. 2) If the site (including adjacent areas) supports three or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable Habitat and is non-contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, at least 90 percent of the area with long-term Conservation value and burrowing owl pairs will be conserved onsite. The survey and Conservation requirements stated in this objective will be eliminated when it is demonstrated that Objectives 1 4 have been met. Objective 6: Pre-construction presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl within the survey area where suitable Habitat is present will be conducted for all Covered Activities through the life of the permit. s will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided. Passive relocation (use of one way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present outside the nesting season. FINAL MSHCP 9-60

61 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 7: Translocation sites for the burrowing owl will be created in the MSHCP Conservation Area for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be identified, taking into consideration unoccupied Habitat areas, presence of burrowing mammals to provide suitable burrow sites, existing colonies and effects to other Covered Species. Reserve Managers will consult with the Wildlife Agencies regarding site selection prior to translocation site development. cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) 3 The cactus wren is narrowly distributed at relatively few locations in suitable Habitat within the Plan Area. Although the preferred Habitat, coastal sage scrub, desert scrubs, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub is well distributed, the locations of the cactus wren are clumped in few locations due to its specific Habitat requirements. It requires patches of cactus-dominated sage scrub Habitat in the Riverside Lowland and San Jacinto Foothill Bioregions of the Plan Area. Because this species has specific Habitat requirements (cactus patches), occurs in few locations within a broader Habitat category, and occurs in relatively low numbers within the Plan Area, the cactus wren will require site-specific considerations, a landscape level of management, and species-specific Conservation measures as a Group 3 species. least 77,070 acres of suitable Habitat for the cactus wren including desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and coastal sage scrub within Riverside Lowland and San Jacinto Foothill Bioregions. least 11 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages including Chino Hills (Proposed Extension of Existing Core 1; 270 acres), Badlands (Proposed Core 3; 24,920 acres), Box Springs Mountains (Existing Noncontiguous Habitat Block A plus Proposed Constrained Linkages 7 and 8; 4,000 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Alberhill (Subunit 2 of Elsinore Area Plan; 3,460 acres), Motte-Rimrock area MSHCP Conservation Area (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 4; 1,150 acres), Lake Perris/ Bernasconi Hills (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), Lake Skinner (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres), and Aguanga (Subunit 4 of REMAP Area Plan; 2,660 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area micro-habitat (i.e., cactus patches) in potential nesting Habitat. achieved by inclusion of at least 77,070 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 11 of 12 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, 14 recent and high precision locations will be inside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public Lands, all of which are recorded for the suitable Habitat of the cactus wren. Conservation also will be provided for the Habitat Linkages between Core Areas as identified above. Additionally, the species-specific Conservation measure for the cactus wren consists of conserving the microhabitat for this species which is composed of cactus patches within the Core Areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the cactus wren is unknown but has been estimated at 100 to 110 pairs (McKernan 1998 pers. comm.). The Incidental Take of the cactus wren is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of cactus wrens can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 63,700 acres (45 percent) of potential Habitat for the cactus wren will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the plan. Of this, approximately 19,940 acres of potential Habitat (14 percent) are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area, will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, and the existing zoning/ordinances for these areas do not preclude development and could allow substantial fragmentation and/or degradation of Habitat for proposed covered species, the anticipated levels of development of these areas may be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the cactus wren. A total of 20 locations within the UCR database None 8 Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of cactus patches within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create cactus patches, the preferred microhabitat, within the Core Area to keep the areal extent of cactus patches within 10% of that present at the base line surveys. Within each Core area, Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the cactus wren Habitat determined to be occupied using existing information and baseline surveys. Baseline surveys of the Core Areas will be conducted as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by cactus wren within each core area. Particular management emphasis will be given to fire and fire suppression activities, grazing, farming, competition from non-native species, and Habitat fragmentation and transition. FINAL MSHCP 9-61

62 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES of the cactus wren will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, 9 of which are located within residential or developed areas and may no longer be extant. The Core Area within the Temecula Creek area west of Vail Lake is not considered conserved. Although a Proposed Constrained Linkage is located within this drainage, the upland areas within which the cactus wren might be present are not conserved. California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia) 2 The California horned lark is relatively widely-distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat, however, it is not predictably distributed within all suitable areas. It occurs in some of the sparsely vegetated Habitats but has not been documented to be uniformly distributed within all open Habitat areas. There appear to be several Core Areas including Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, the grasslands within Prado Basin, Wasson Canyon area, Moreno Valley/March ARB, and Murrieta/Murrieta Hot Springs area. Because it is well known for using open, sparsely vegetated Habitats but has specific locations that appear to be Core Areas, it responds well to a landscape level of management with site specific requirements. least 153,750 acres of suitable foraging and nesting Habitat for the California horned lark including playa and vernal pool Habitats, agriculture (field croplands), grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, coastal sage scrub, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub. The scrub Habitats provide foraging Habitat and nesting opportunities in areas where the scrub is relatively sparse. least 3 Core Areas and a portion of a fourth Core Area for the California horned lark including grasslands around Prado Basin (including the adjacent Santa Ana River area; 9,670 acres), Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Subunit 4 of Reche Canyon/Badlands Area Plan; 2,690 acres), and a portion of the Core Area in the Murrieta/Murrieta Hot Springs area (Proposed Core 2; 5,050 acres). Other locations are conserved as well, although they may not include Core Areas. These other locations include Lake Elsinore grasslands, Santa Rosa Plateau, and Wilson Valley. achieved by the inclusion of at least 153,750 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the Core Areas within the Prado Basin, Wasson Canyon, and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, as well as a portion of the Core Area within the Murrieta/Murrieta Hot Springs area (Proposed Core 2). The current population size of the California horned lark is unknown however the foraging and nesting Habitat requirements are well defined. The species is moderately predictable in its occurrence and may vary in number within the area from a few to many individuals. It occurs repeatedly in a number of conserved locations. About 284,800 acres (65 percent) of potential Habitat for the California horned lark will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. One of the 5 Core Areas, the Moreno Valley/March ARB area, will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. A portion of a Core Area within the Murrieta/Murrieta Hot Springs area will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for pesticide use and Habitat fragmentation and destruction. California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis) 2 The California spotted owl has a sparse distribution within the Santa Ana Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains Bioregions of the MSHCP Plan Area within montane coniferous and oak-deciduous least 41,370 acres of suitable montane coniferous forest and oak deciduous woodland and forest Habitats within the Santa Ana Mountains (7,350 achieved by inclusion of at least 41,370 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the known nesting localities within large Approximately 16,000 acres (about 28 percent) of potential Habitat for the California spotted owl will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi- None 8 Reserve Managers will mange micro Habitat (i.e., old-growth forest) and integrate monitoring and management programs for the California spotted owl and the San Bernardino Flying squirrel. Reserve Managers will manage the known nesting locations and FINAL MSHCP 9-62

63 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES woodlands and forest Habitats. It is a Group 2 species because its Conservation requires integration of Habitat protection with site specific monitoring and management. acres), San Bernardino Mountains (1,620 acres), and San Jacinto Mountains (32,400 acres) Bioregions for breeding, foraging, wintering use, and dispersal movement for the California spotted owl. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the nesting locations within the Santa Ana, San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains. blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to incidental take consistent with the Plan. Approximately five locations from the CDFG database appear to be located outside of the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations. Only one of these five locations outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area has been recorded as nesting (1988). No other known nesting areas are outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi- Public designations. No take of nesting locations is included within this permit. potential nesting Habitat (e.g., Habitat that consists of large blocks of mature forest with large trees and snags for nesting, dense, multi-layered canopy cover for roost seclusion, and a permanent water source, consistent with the species' needs) within the San Jacinto, San Bernardino, and Santa Ana mountains. Particular management emphasis will be given to fire and fire suppression activities, alteration of hydrology, farming, mining, logging and firewood harvesting. coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) 2 The coastal California gnatcatcher is distributed widely within suitable Habitat in the Riverside lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions especially along the Interstate 15/215 corridor from the Santa Ana River to Temecula and into the Vail Lake area. It is absent from the higher elevations and desert areas. The Coastal California gnatcatcher occurs in 16 Core Areas within the Plan Area including Alessandro Hills, El Cerrito, Lake Mathews- Estelle Mountain Reserve, Alberhill area, the proposed North Peak Conservation Bank/Meadowbrook area, Wasson Canyon, Railroad Canyon, Quail Valley, Sedco Hills, Hogbacks, Murrieta Hot Springs, Lake Skinner, Buck Road to Pourroy Road east of Murrieta Hot Springs, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley including the eastern Temecula Creek area, Rancho California east of Interstate 15 to De Portola Road, and Norco Hills. The coastal California gnatcatcher, as a year-round resident, has lower dispersal capabilities than small passerine birds that are long-distance migrants and thus relies on Habitat Linkages for localized and regional movements. Because the coastal California gnatcatcher is well known for using coastal sage scrub within the lowland and foothill Bioregions, occurs widely within its suitable Habitat, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, it is included as a Group 2 species to be managed at a Habitat level with site specific requirements in Core Areas and Linkages. least 77,070 acres of suitable Habitat including coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan scrub and desert scrub in the Riverside Lowland and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 13 of the Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages within 9 Core and Linkage areas including El Cerrito/Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain Reserve (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Alberhill area (Subunit 2 of the Elsinore Area Plan; 3,460 acres), the proposed North Peak Conservation Bank/Meadowbrook area (Subunit 6 of the Elsinore Area Plan; 1,080 acres), Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of the Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Railroad Canyon/Sedco Hills (Proposed Linkage 8; 5,470 acres), a portion of the Quail Valley area (Proposed Linkage 7; 3,400 acres), Hogbacks/Murrieta Hot Springs (Proposed Core 2 plus Existing Constrained Linkage A; 5,350 acres), Lake Skinner/Buck Road to Pourroy Road east of Murrieta Hot Springs (Existing Core J plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 5, 6, and 7; 29,060 acres), Vail Lake/Wilson Valley including the eastern Temecula Creek area (Proposed Core 7; 50,000 acres). Due to mapping achieved by inclusion of at least 77,070 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 13 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will document that the MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every three years) the continued use of and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. The current number of locations of the gnatcatcher in Riverside County is estimated at 250 to 300 pairs. The gnatcatcher is restricted to more lowland areas and is not distributed evenly through the preferred Habitat. It occurs in a patchy distribution and thus the suitable Habitat as well as the Core Areas and connections of these Core Areas need to be addressed as described in detail above. Numerous small patches and small numbers of gnatcatchers are conserved as well and are likely to be important as About 63,700 acres of potential primary Habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi- Public designations, or about 45 percent of the total potential primary Habitat. Of this, approximately 19,940 acres (14 percent) of potential primary Habitat is located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. Based on the evaluation of Habitat quality provided by PSBS and KTU+A (1995), approximately 40,810 acres (39 percent) of moderate, high and very high quality Habitat will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. This includes 3,470 acres (19 percent) of the very high quality Habitat, 20,680 acres (39 percent) of the high quality Habitat, and 16,660 acres (49 percent) of the moderate quality Habitat. Core Areas not conserved within Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations include the Norco Hills population (approximately 5 locations), None 3 3 Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area as identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the sage scrub vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create sage scrub within the Core Area to keep the percent cover of coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the baseline value within the areas defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the occupied gnatcatcher Habitat, as determined using existing information and baseline surveys, within each Core Area. Reserve Managers will maintain (once every three years) continued use of and successful reproduction at 75% of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Conduct baseline surveys as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by gnatcatchers within each Core Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to fire and fire suppression activities, farming, grazing, domestic animals, Habitat fragmentation and transition, and competition with non-native species. FINAL MSHCP 9-63

64 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES configuration, some of the coastal California gnatcatcher Core Areas have been combined in order to provide the acreage of MSHCP Conservation Area within the Core Area. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every three years) continued use of and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. providing a source of dispersing birds. These small populations, many of which are documented above to be preserved may be important to prevent further isolation of remaining breeding groups. Alessandro Hills (approximately eight locations), a portion of the Quail Valley area (approximately six locations), and Rancho California east of Interstate 15 to De Portola Road (approximately 10 locations some of which may no longer be extant due to recent development in the area). Based on the UCR database, a total of 27 locations (7 percent) will be in the Rural/Mountainous zone and 130 locations (33 percent) are located outside the MSCHP Conservation Area. However, of the 130 points, 37 are mapped in existing residential/ urban/exotic areas. Cooper s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) 2 The Cooper's hawk is widely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. It occurs within all Bioregions of the Plan Area. There are several areas that appear to be Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Canyon, Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Slater Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau West, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, Tucalota Creek, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley, San Bernardino National Forest, and Cleveland National Forest. Because it is well known for using riparian scrub, forest and woodland, oak woodland and forest, and montane coniferous forest, occurs in all Bioregions of the Plan Area, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, it is a Group 2 species. least 54,580 acres of suitable Habitat including riparian scrub, forest, and woodland, oak woodland and forest, and montane coniferous forest. least 10 Core Areas at (1) the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), (2) San Timoteo Canyon (Subunit 3 of The Pass Area Plan; 2,290 acres), (3) Temescal Wash (Subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan; 4,010 acres), (4) Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), (5) Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), (6) Murrieta Creek (Subunit 1 of Southwest Area Plan; 2,060 acres), (7) Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), (8) Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540), (9) San Bernardino National Forest (Existing Core K;149,750 acres), (10) Cleveland National Forest (Existing Core B; 71,490 acres). achieved by inclusion of at least 54,580 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 10 Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Canyon, Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley, San Bernardino National Forest, and Cleveland National Forest. About 22,100 acres (29 percent) of potential Habitat for the Cooper's hawk will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 5,430 acres (7 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/ Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development in these areas will likely be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the Cooper's hawk. A portion of the core population within the Santa Rosa Plateau is within the Rural/ Mountainous designation and is not considered to be conserved. The population at Slater Canyon is also within the Rural/Mountainous designation and is not considered to be conserved. The core population None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will maintain the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat for this species and will selectively rehabilitate or revegetate all such potential Habitat areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will manage any nesting locations found in the future within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to Habitat destruction and degradation, timber harvesting, pesticide use and human disturbance at nest sites. FINAL MSHCP 9-64

65 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES area at Tucalota Creek is constrained by existing development and although Habitat is provided within the drainage by conserved riparian scrub, woodland and forest, the individuals within this drainage are not considered to be conserved. double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 2 The double-crested cormorant has a wide distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. It occurs at every open water body within the Plan Area and thus uses Habitat predictably and responds well to available suitable Habitat. It will use Habitat near open water bodies containing trees for creating rookeries. The only known nesting location in the Plan Area and any nesting locations found in the future will require site specific management. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 16,100 acres of open water Habitat within seven open water bodies and one drainage including Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail Lake, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River and the wetland Habitats within Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known double-crested cormorant rookery in the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. achieved by inclusion of at least 16,100 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat (open water and wetland Habitat within the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River) and the known rookery location in the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. The current population size of the double-crested cormorant is unknown, however it appears to have regular use of specified areas and a known breeding location that has been regularly monitored in the past. The estimated Take of the doublecrested cormorant is based on the acreage of potentially suitable and/or occupied Habitat. About 2,180 acres of potential Habitat for the double-crested cormorant will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/ Quasi-Public Lands and individuals located within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. This comprises approximately 12 percent of the total potential Habitat. This includes the open water bodies composed of Hemet Lake, and Lake Riverside. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological processes within the following: Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail Lake, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Reserve Managers will manage the known double-crested cormorant rookery in the Santa Ana River drainage/prado Basin, as well as future rookeries. Particular management emphasis will be given to pesticide use, flood control measures and Habitat destruction, and human persecution. downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 2 The downy woodpecker is sparsely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. There are several areas that appear to be Core Areas including Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Temescal Canyon, Alberhill Creek, Temecula Creek, and the Vail Lake area. It also occurs in other areas of the Plan Area including but not limited to San Timoteo Creek, the Badlands, Potrero, the mountain Bioregions, and Wilson Valley. Because it is well known for using riparian scrub, forest and woodland, and oak woodland and forest, occurs in all Bioregions of the Plan Area with known Core Areas, a landscape level of management with site specific requirements is proposed. least 34,080 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the downy woodpecker including riparian scrub, forest and woodland, and oak woodland and forest. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 5 Core Areas and Linkages within the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of the Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), Temescal Wash (Subunit 3 of the Temescal Canyon Area Plan; 4,010 acres), Alberhill Creek (Subunit 2 of the Elsinore Area Plan; 3,460 acres), and Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of the Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. achieved by the inclusion of at least 34,080 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will conserve the micro- Habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. Five of the Core Areas of the downy woodpecker are conserved within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area and additional areas with few or no recorded locations but that contain potential Habitat are also conserved. About 12,710 acres (about 27 percent) of potential Habitat for the downy woodpecker will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None of the Core Areas will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of this, approximately 5,390 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/ Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development in these areas will likely be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the downy woodpecker. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological process of Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Reserve Managers will manage known and future identified nesting localities and protect micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. FINAL MSHCP 9-65

66 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis) 1 The ferruginous hawk has a widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable foraging Habitat. It occurs within the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall and may winter within the area. It does not require specific conditions or locations for nesting because it does not nest in the region. It is an opportunistic predator that may forage anywhere within open Habitats in the area. Include with the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 144,120 acres of agriculture (field crops), grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, including 2,690 acres at Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area and 5,520 acres of riparian Habitat at Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. achieved by inclusion of at least 144,120 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including agriculture (field crops), grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest. The main areas within which the species has been observed, Prado Basin/Santa Ana River and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, will be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the ferruginous hawk is unknown, however the foraging Habitat requirements are well defined. The species is moderately predictable in its occurrence and may vary in number within the area from a few to many individuals. It has occurred repeatedly in a number of conserved locations. About 257,290 acres (64 percent) of potential Habitat for the ferruginous hawk will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals occurring within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 General Management Measure 1. golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) 2 The golden eagle is widely distributed as a foraging species throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within all bioregions and in virtually all Habitats except dense conifer woodlands at high elevations. There are several golden eagle nest sites within the Plan Area as well. Nest sites occur within a variety of Habitats, predominantly chaparral, but are more closely associated with specific topography and micro-habitat features than Habitat type. Nest site locations include Temecula Gorge, in the hills east of Sun City, in the hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371, Elsinore Peak, Rawson Canyon, Double Butte, Mesa de Burro on the Santa Rosa Plateau, on a transmission line in San Timoteo Canyon (likely nest) and possibly in the Box Springs Mountains and on Arlington Mountain, although these last two locations may have now been abandoned. These nest site locations will be considered core areas that require Conservation. least 164,390 acres of suitable foraging Habitat for the golden eagle including grasslands, playas and vernal pools, desert scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, oak woodlands and forests, and coastal sage scrub. Conserved Habitats will be distributed throughout all bioregions of the Plan Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area and buffer from disturbance the known nesting locations at Temecula Gorge, in the hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371, at Elsinore Peak, at Rawson Canyon, at Mesa de Burro on Santa Rosa Plateau, and in San Timoteo Canyon (likely nest). Buffering of the nest sites will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area within a one mile radius around each of the achieved by inclusion of at least 164,390 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat, the known nest sites at Temecula Gorge, in the hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371, at Elsinore Peak, on Mesa de Burro on the Santa Rosa Plateau, in San Timoteo Canyon near El Casco (likely nest), and in Rawson Canyon, and the 1 mile buffer protection around the nest sites. The current population size of the golden eagle is unknown however there are recorded nesting locations. As identified in Objective 3, the MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of About 191,770 acres (54 percent) of potential Habitat for the golden eagle will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and will be subject to incidental take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 43,740 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development in these areas will likely be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for None 8 8 Reserve Managers will buffer from disturbance, and monitor and manage through time known nesting locations at Temecula Gorge, in the hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371, at Elsinore peak, Rawson Canyon. Buffering of the nest sites will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat in the Criteria Area and reserve within a one mile radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. Monitoring and management will be used to demonstrate continued (once every eight years) use and successful reproduction at 75% of the known nesting localities (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). FINAL MSHCP 9-66

67 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. Maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known nesting localities (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. the known golden eagle known nesting localities (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Although the Sun City, Arlington Mountain, Box Springs Mountains (potential), and Double Butte nesting locations are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area, they have not been recently documented as being active and no take of active nest sites will be permitted. foraging for the golden eagle. Four point locations are located within the Rural/Mountainous category. A total of 28 point localities will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. The nest site location at Double Butte is not considered conserved and has not been documented as being active. The nest site location in the hills east of Sun City is within the Rural/Mountainous designation. The current status of the Sun City site is not known. The CNDDB recorded it as active in It was not mentioned as being active during recent discussions of nest sites (P. Bloom 2001 pers. comm.). The two known or potential nest site locations in the Box Springs Mountains and on Arlington Mountain are no longer active (LaPré 2002). No Take of active nest sites will be permitted. grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) 2 The grasshopper sparrow is widely, but sparsely, distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat in the Riverside Lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. It is absent from the higher elevation Bioregions and the desert transition Bioregions. The grasshopper sparrow has well known and restricted Habitat requirements. It is sensitive to Edge Effects and requires relatively large blocks of contiguous Habitat. Grasshopper sparrow habitat requirements are well known. Once conservation has been achieved, and specific locations that support Core Areas are known, it is anticipated that this species will respond well to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements. It has therefore been included in Group 2. least 38,690 acres of suitable Habitat for the grasshopper sparrow including grassland Habitat within the Riverside Lowland, San Jacinto Foothills, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100 percent) and at least 3 of the 4 smaller Core Areas (75 percent) in at least 1 year out of any 5 consecutive year period. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following Conservation must be demonstrated: least 8,000 acres in 7 potential Core Areas. Core areas may include the following: 1) Prado Basin, 2) Lake Skinner/ Diamond Valley Lake/Johnson Ranch achieved by inclusion of at least 38,690 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat. In addition, implementation of Objective 2 for this species will provide Conservation of at least 7 Core Areas, 3 large (>2,000 acres) and 4 smaller (>500 acres), consisting of contiguous grassland or grassland- dominated Habitat and maintenance of occupancy and successful breeding within these Core Areas. However, the Plan does not require surveys or Habitat assessments for this species to inform assemblage of the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is possible that the overall acreage goal of 153,000 new acres of Conservation could be The Incidental Take of the grasshopper sparrow is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of grasshopper sparrow can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 93,350 acres (71 percent) of Habitat for the grasshopper sparrow will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. A total of 110 acres, 4 percent, of the native grasslands will be outside None 1 to 5 1** Reserve Managers will conduct surveys for grasshopper sparrow on all conserved lands with suitable Habitat within 3 years after they are added to the MSHCP Conservation Area. Results will be used to update the baseline distribution and determine the number of occupied Core Areas as defined under Objective 1 of the Species Account, and direct management activities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100%) and at least 3 of the 4 smaller Core Areas (75%) in at least 1 year out of any 5 consecutive year period. Five of the 7 Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 grasshopper sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the grassland vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance, restore, and/or create grassland, with an emphasis on native grasslands, within the FINAL MSHCP 9-67

68 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES The MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term conservation of the species. However, the grasshopper sparrow is a grassland species and as much as 70% of the mapped grassland within the Plan Area would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Because the grasshopper sparrow does not tolerate fragmentation and most of the grassland in the Plan Area will be lost, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 2. area, 3) Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, 4) Badlands, 5) Box Springs, 6) Santa Rosa Plateau/Tenaja, 7) Kabian Park, 8) Steele Peak, 9) Sycamore Canyon, 10) Potrero, and 11) Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area. Three of the 7 Core Areas will be large, consisting of a minimum of 2,000 acres of grassland Habitat or grassland-dominated Habitat (<20 percent shrub cover). The other 4 Core Areas may be smaller but will consist of at least 500 acres of contiguous grassland Habitat or grassland-dominated Habitat (<20 percent shrub cover). Five of the 7 Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 grasshopper sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. achieved without conserving the 7 Core Areas of grassland Habitat, leaving the species vulnerable to extirpation in the Plan Area and failing to meet the objectives of the Plan. Under those circumstances the Incidental Take of the species will not be covered if the species were to be listed during the life of the Plan. of the MSHCP Conservation Area. Three locations within the location database are within the Rural/Mountainous category. Seven point localities will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area, two of which are recorded for residential land use and may no longer be extant. Core Area to keep the percent cover of grassland within 10% of the baseline value in the areas defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. great blue heron (Ardea herodias) 2 The great blue heron is expected to be relatively welldistributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat. It likely occurs at almost all of the open water bodies where emergent or riparian vegetation is present and many of the playas and riparian drainages that may provide foraging opportunities as well as many irrigation ditches, ponds and areas where suitable foraging opportunities are present. There are no locations that have been recorded within the UCR database, thus the distribution of this species is based on anecdotal observation and expert opinion. Several areas are likely Core Areas for this species, including Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Lake Skinner, and Collier Marsh. The breeding locations, which have been documented as active or historic, are located at specific sites that require Conservation. Because it is well known for using emergent Habitat, riparian areas for nesting, ponds and other aquatic Habitat, but has specific locations that are used for breeding, it is assumed that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site-specific requirements (e.g., breeding rookeries). least 16,560 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the great blue heron including freshwater marsh, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and cismontane alkali marsh. least the 3 known breeding locations, in the Santa Ana River/Prado Basin (9,670 acres), Lake Skinner area (Existing Core J; 24,370 acres), and Collier Marsh areas (Proposed Linkage 2; 160 acres). A 100-meter buffer will be established around the Core Areas identified in Objective 2 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. achieved by inclusion of at least 16,560 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including 9,840 acres of primary breeding and foraging Habitat and 6,720 acres of secondary foraging Habitat. Additionally, the three core known or potential breeding locations, Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Collier Marsh, and Lake Skinner area within large blocks of Habitat are included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. As these Core Areas are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area, a 100-meter buffer will be established around each Core Areas. The current population size of the great blue heron is unknown. Implementation of the MSHCP, including the Conservation of existing or potentially occupied Habitat, core populations, and current and historic nesting locations, is anticipated to maintain the status of the species and its Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Incidental Take of the great blue heron is difficult to quantify at this time owing to our limited knowledge of the precise location and extent of nesting sites and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the level of Take of great blue heron can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will be impacted or become unsuitable for this species. About 2,840 acres (22 percent) of potential primary breeding and foraging Habitat for the great blue heron will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Approximately 1,160 acres (14 percent) of potential secondary foraging Habitat for the great blue heron will be outside the None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the 3 known and historic breeding locations (Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Lake Skinner, and Collier Marsh) for Habitat conversion and pesticide use. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time nest sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining hydrological process, specifically seasonal flows in the Santa Ana River. FINAL MSHCP 9-68

69 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. No rookeries are anticipated to be subject to Incidental Take. least Bell s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) 2 The least Bell s vireo is relatively well distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat in the Riverside Lowland and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. It has relatively narrow and well documented Habitat requirements. It occurs in several areas that appear to be Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Temescal Wash (including Alberhill Creek), Mockingbird Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner (including Rawson Canyon), Vail Lake, Wilson Creek, and San Timoteo Canyon. Because it is well known for using riparian scrub, forest and woodland, has been well documented for its Habitat requirements, occurs within specified and known Bioregions, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, it will require Conservation on a landscape level with site specific considerations for Core Areas. least 9,430 acres of suitable Habitat including riparian forest, woodland and scrub Habitat within the Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 8 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. Core areas could include the following areas: 1) the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres); 2) Temescal Wash including Alberhill Creek (includes Subunit 3 of the Temescal Canyon Area Plan plus Proposed Linkage 2 and Proposed Constrained Linage 6; 4,290 acres); 3) Murrieta Creek (Subunit 1 of the Southwest Area Plan; 2,060 acres); 4) Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of the Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres); 5) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (including Rawson Canyon) (Existing Core C, Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres); 6) Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of the Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres; 7) Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of the REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres) and 8) San Timoteo Canyon (Subunit 3 of The Pass Area Plan; 2,290 acres). Each Core Area will include at least 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the riparian woodland and scrub Habitat where it occurs within the Criteria Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important to the least Bell's vireo. This Objective shall be met through implementation of the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that achieved by the inclusion of at least 9,430 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Eight of the Core Areas of the least Bell's vireo will be conserved within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area and additional areas with few or no recorded locations but that contain potential Habitat are also conserved in accordance with the wetland policy. The MSHCP has been designed to preserve the very large breeding population within the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River area. Additionally, the small patches of riparian Habitat and the sites containing small numbers of vireos are likely to be just as important as the large population sites. These small populations, documented above to be largely preserved, are important to prevent further isolation of remaining breeding groups. Wetland mapping assembled as part of the wetland policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and if riparian scrub and/or woodland is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a focused survey for least Bell's vireo shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the vireo shall be conserved in a manner consistent with Conservation of the vireo. For the Core Areas and the new Approximately 2,780 acres of potential Habitat for the least Bell's vireo will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 23 percent of the total potential Habitat. It should be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, including those present in the Mockingbird Canyon area, will be subject to the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. However, the population of the least Bell's vireo at Mockingbird Canyon is not included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of the 9 high precision recent location points located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, five are located within suitable Habitat including riparian scrub, southern willow scrub, or open water/reservoir/pond and the balance are located outside suitable Habitat areas within existing residential/ urban/exotic areas, non-native grassland, or Riversidean sage scrub. Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools) 3 3 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known vireo occupied Habitat (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to flood control measures, altered hydrology, competition with non-native species, parasitism by brown-headed cowbird, mining, grazing, and Habitat fragmentation. Reserve Managers will buffer known and future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. FINAL MSHCP 9-69

70 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and if riparian scrub and/or woodland is identified on the wetland maps and the Habitat will not be avoided as part of the project, a focused survey for least Bell's vireo shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. If survey results are positive, 90 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the vireo shall be conserved in a manner consistent with Conservation of the vireo. This will involve including 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the Habitat conserved. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known vireo occupied Habitat (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. areas to be conserved in accordance with Objective 3, Conservation of suitable Habitat will include 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the Habitat conserved. Conservation of the least Bell's vireo will provide for the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known vireo occupied Habitat (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). The population viability analysis conducted by the USFWS as part of the listing package (USFWS 1998) indicated the least Bell's vireo populations exceeded the minimum viable population size with a less than five percent probability of extinction over a 100-year period. The results of zero probability are due to the sizes and growth rates of each population as well as their interconnectedness through dispersal. Lincoln s sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii)- breeding 1 The Lincoln's sparrow has a sparse and widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within a wide variety of Habitats. It occurs within the lowland and foothills Bioregions of the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall and may winter within the area. Although there are few documented records of the species it has been reported as common within the lowland and foothills areas as a winter transient and migrant in a variety of Habitats. Because it is widespread as a wintering bird within the Plan Area and population levels rangewide appear to be stable, it is anticipated that this species will respond well to a landscape level of management for its wintering occurrence within the Plan Area. Lincoln's sparrow is a rare breeder in the Plan Area within the mountain Bioregions. There are approximately 1,050 least 470 acres of suitable breeding Habitat including montane riparian, riparian scrub and wet meadow within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains Bioregions. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 190,390 acres of suitable wintering habitat including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, freshwater marsh, Peninsular juniper woodland, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, oak woodland and forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub in Riverside Lowland and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100 percent) in at least 1 year out of 5 consecutive-year period. achieved by inclusion of at least 470 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat for breeding and 190,390 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat for wintering. Incidental Take of nesting Lincoln's sparrow is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 2. The Incidental Take of the Lincoln's sparrow is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of Lincoln's sparrow can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 580 acres (55 percent) of potential breeding Habitat for the Lincoln's sparrow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public lands, and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan upon satisfaction of Objective 2 above. Of this area, approximately 30 acres (3 None 8 General Management Measures 1 and 4. FINAL MSHCP 9-70

71 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES acres of montane riparian and wet meadow in the Plan Area. Approximately, 470 of these would be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Because Lincoln's sparrow nesting habitat is very restricted in the Plan Area, 55 percent of it would be lost, and there is no information about the relative use or importance of the conserved habitat versus the unconserved Habitat, Incidental Take of nesting Lincoln's sparrow is not included in this permit until conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 2. In order for this species to become a Covered Species Adequately Conserved, the following conservation must be demonstrated: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 100 acres in 3 Core Areas. Core Areas may include the following: (1) Tahquitz Valley; (2) Round Valley; (3) Garner Valley. The three Core Areas will be large, consisting of a minimum of 50 acres of montane meadow, wet montane meadow, and edges of montane riparian or riparian scrub. The Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 Lincoln's sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. percent) will be within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. Although these areas will not be part of the managed MSHCP Conservation Area and the existing zoning/ordinances for these areas do not preclude development and could allow substantial fragmentation and/or degradation of Habitat for proposed covered species, the anticipated levels of development in these areas may be consistent with the continued presence of the Lincoln's sparrow, although Lincoln's sparrow tends to be of insular distribution for nesting and thus may be sensitive to fragmentation of its suitable breeding Habitat. Take of nests of Lincoln's sparrow is not covered by the MSHCP Plan. About 219,670 acres (54 percent) of potential wintering Habitat for the Lincoln's sparrow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) 2 The loggerhead shrike is widely but patchily distributed throughout lower elevations of the Plan Area within suitable Habitat. Habitat requirements of the loggerhead shrike are known to include open sparse vegetation for foraging and trees and shrubs for nesting. Core areas include the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Wasson Canyon, Wildomar, Temecula Creek, Wilson Valley, Quail Valley, San Jacinto, Lake Perris/Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Moreno Valley, Badlands, and scattered within the larger area of Homeland/Winchester/ Menifee area. Given these well known Habitat requirements and specific locations that are considered Core Areas, it is anticipated that this species will respond to a landscape level of management with site specific requirements. least 167,590 acres of suitable foraging and nesting Habitat for the loggerhead shrike including agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, desert scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, and oak woodlands and forest. least 8 of 12 breeding and foraging locations constituting Core Areas including Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extended Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Wasson achieved by inclusion of at least 167,590 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 8 Core Areas which are composed of large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas are provided with connections of Proposed or Existing Linkages or Constrained Linkages which connect the Proposed and Existing Cores. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within, 75 percent of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as producing fledglings from a nesting attempt. The current population The Incidental Take of the loggerhead shrike is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of loggerhead shrike can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 318,540 acres (66 percent) of Habitat for the loggerhead shrike will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Four core population None 8 8 Reserve Managers will manage Habitat Linkages and movement corridors between Core Population Areas in order to allow for dispersal and movement of loggerhead shrikes throughout the Plan Area and to areas outside of the planning area. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for Habitat conversion and fertilizer and pesticide use. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas. FINAL MSHCP 9-71

72 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Canyon (Subunit 5 of the Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of the Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of the REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres), Quail Valley (Proposed Linkage 7; 3,400 acres), Lake Perris/Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), and Badlands (Proposed Core 3; 24,920 acres). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within, 75 percent of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. size of the loggerhead shrike is unknown, however a sizable data base is present within the UCR database and the species appears well represented throughout the MSHCP Plan Area except in the desert and high elevation areas. The literature documents the usage of desert areas, thus desert Habitat has been included within the Conservation analysis, however data point locations are likely lacking due to low survey effort in desert areas. Some concerns have been expressed regarding the impact the fire ant may have on the loggerhead shrike. Currently there is one known location of the fire ant. The area is currently under quarantine and efforts are being made to control and eradicate the ant. The location is outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and will have no effect on the Conservation analysis of the loggerhead shrike. areas not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area include the Wildomar area, the area around San Jacinto except for a few small vernal pool preserve areas, Moreno Valley, and the scattered locations within the Homeland/ Winchester/ Menifee area. MacGillivray s warbler (Oporornis tolmiei) 1 The MacGillivray's warbler has a sparse and widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within a variety of shrubby and riparian Habitats. It occurs within the lowland and foothill Bioregions of the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall but does not winter within these Bioregions. It has been documented within the literature as occurring commonly within the lowland and foothills area as a transient that may use densely vegetated shrub and scrub Habitats. However, there are few documented records of the species, probably because it is relatively common and observations may not be recorded. It breeds within the Plan Area within the mountain Bioregions in scrub and forested Habitats. Although it has few documented records, the literature documents its occurrence within the mountain regions of the Plan Area and that the populations have increased significantly within the mountain regions of the Plan Area. least 418,780 acres of riparian scrub, forest, and woodland, oak woodland and forest, montane coniferous forest, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and desert scrub Habitats for breeding, dispersal, and transient movements. The breeding and transient movement areas have been combined in this analysis because this species uses the same Habitats for both parts of the life cycle and there may be some overlap between breeding areas and migration areas. achieved by inclusion of at least 418,780 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including riparian scrub, forest, and woodland, oak woodland and forest, montane coniferous forest, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and desert scrub Habitats for breeding, dispersal, and transient movements. The MSHCP Conservation Area has been designed to preserve the large blocks of areas that contain a variety of potentially suitable Habitat for foraging use during migration as well as very large blocks that contain potentially suitable nesting Habitat for the species. About 240,570 acres (36 percent) of potential Habitat for the MacGillivray's warbler will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 General Management Measures 1 and 4. merlin (Falco columbarius) 1 The merlin has a sparse and widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within almost every Habitat that occurs within the Plan Area. It occurs within least 193,840 acres of agriculture (field crops), grassland, freshwater marsh, cismontane alkali Conservation of this species will be achieved by the inclusion of at least 193,840 acres of suitable Conserved About 302,430 (61 percent) of potential Habitat for the merlin will be outside the Criteria Area and None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-72

73 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall and may occasionally winter within the area. It does not require specific conditions or locations for nesting because it does not nest in the region. It is an opportunistic predator that may forage anywhere in the area. marsh, playa and vernal pool, desert scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, and oak woodlands and forest Habitats. Habitat including agriculture (field crops), grassland, freshwater marsh, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, desert scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, and oak woodlands and forest Habitats. Additionally, although there are no Core Areas for this species, several large blocks of Habitat supporting the few known foraging locations, and potential foraging locations of the merlin will be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area, including the Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Wilson Creek, Mystic Lake/ San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake. These Habitats and areas provide potential foraging for the merlin during transient and winter visits. The current population size of the merlin is unknown and may vary from year to year. Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None of the major areas, Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area, Wilson Valley, and Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, where the merlin has been observed in the past are outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. mountain plover (Charadrius montanus) 3 The mountain plover is narrowly distributed at relatively few locations within the Plan Area in suitable Habitat. The mountain plover uses playas and vernal pool, grassland, and some agriculture Habitats during the winter in the Plan Area. Although playa and vernal pool Habitat is well identified for the Plan Area, it encompasses a relatively small portion. The remaining Habitats, grassland and agriculture land, are well distributed within the Plan Area but the mountain plover uses only a small portion of what is available. This species occurs within Core Areas that it uses for its winter visits. It also requires specific Habitat conditions within these Core Areas. Because the mountain plover requires specific conditions, occurs in few locations within a broad Habitat category, and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of preferred Habitat, and species specific least 6,710 acres of suitable Habitat for the mountain plover including playa and vernal pool Habitat. least 4 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. The Core Areas will consist of two "large" areas (at least 2,500 acres of suitable Habitat: playa, grassland, fallow agriculture) and two smaller areas (at least 1,000 acres of suitable Habitat). Core Areas shall include the following areas: San Jacinto River floodplain (Proposed Core 5, Existing Constrained Linkage C, Proposed Extension of Existing Core 4, and Proposed Constrained Linkage 19; 7,320 acres), Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), and the playa achieved by inclusion of at least 6,710 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 4 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Core Areas will consist of two large and two small areas of at least 2,500 and 1,000 acres of suitable grassland, agriculture, and playa Habitats, respectively. An additional two potential Core Areas also are included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the mountain plover is unknown, due to its nomadic wintering and transient movement habits and a paucity of focused surveys for the species. The Conservation Strategy for The Incidental Take of the mountain plover is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of mountain plover can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 1,160 acres (15 percent) of potential wintering Habitat, composed of playa and vernal pool Habitat, for the mountain plover will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. The Winchester area, None 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to farming, grazing, conversion of grassland Habitat and decline of native herbivores. FINAL MSHCP 9-73

74 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES management conditions as a Group 3 species. west of Hemet (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 7; 1,250 acres), and may include areas adjacent to Lake Elsinore (Subunit 7 of Elsinore Area Plan; 1,810 acres), Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), and Lake Matthews (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres). the species depends on the preservation to the extent possible of existing occupied Habitat and the identification and management of additional suitable Habitat throughout the Plan Area using fire as a management tool to create suitable Habitat out of the agriculture lands within the MSHCP Conservation Area. historically a potential Core Area, is outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area, however this area may no longer function as a Core Area. mountain quail (Oreortyx pictus) 1 The mountain quail has a reported wide distribution within all of the mountain ranges west of the deserts and of the northern interior of California. It predictably inhabits suitable montane chaparral and brushy vegetation within coniferous forests. This species has been recorded within the U.S. Forest Service lands. It may occur throughout a greater portion of suitable Habitat within the MSHCP Plan Area, but no records exist in the MSHCP database. Other sources conclude it is widely distributed within suitable Habitat. Because it predictably uses suitable brushy montane chaparral and occurs widely throughout the Plan Area, it should respond well to a landscape level of management. least 234,940 acres of suitable Habitat including chaparral, oak woodland, and montane coniferous woodland within large blocks in the Desert Transition (27,000 acres), San Bernardino Mountains (8,490 acres), San Jacinto Mountains (126,160 acres) and Santa Ana Mountains (73,290 acres) Bioregions. achieved by inclusion of at least 234,940 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including chaparral, oak deciduous woodland and forest, and coniferous forest within the Bioregions of the Desert Transition, San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, and Santa Ana Mountains. In addition, large blocks of Habitat containing montane chaparral, deciduous and coniferous woodland Habitat with Habitat Linkages provided to connect these large blocks of breeding Habitat to lower elevation areas for wintering use are in the MSHCP Conservation Area. About 93,800 acres (29 percent) of potential Habitat for the mountain quail will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Additionally, approximately 32,730 acres of potential Habitat (10 percent) are designated Rural/Mountainous and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 General Management Measure 1. Nashville warbler (Vermivora ruficapilla) 2 The Nashville warbler has been recorded in the literature and within the UCR database in the San Bernardino National Forest within the Plan Area as a likely breeding bird. It is widely distributed but uncommon during migration periods. Core breeding season areas are few and important to Conservation of the species. In the Plan Area, two core breeding season areas have been identified, Lake Fulmor and Pine Cove. Additional observations within the Plan Area primarily occur in lowland Bioregions and probably represent spring or fall transients. Because the Nashville warbler uses a variety of Habitats within montane Bioregions for breeding (including chaparral, riparian, deciduous woodland, and coniferous woodland), occurs in a variety of Habitats for migrant movements in all Bioregions (including brush and scrub Habitats, desert scrub, and wooded Habitats), and has specific locations that are identified as core breeding season areas, it is included in Group 2. least 209,490 acres of suitable breeding Habitat including chaparral, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and oak woodlands in montane Bioregions. least three Core Areas. Core Areas will include the known breeding locations at Lake Fulmor and Pine Cove (represented by MSHCP Conservation Areas within the San Bernardino National Forest; 149,750 acres) and one additional breeding area identified within the MSHCP Conservation Area. least 209,290 acres of suitable dispersal or migration Habitat and interconnecting Linkages, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert achieved by inclusion of at least 418,780 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat for breeding and dispersal/migratory movements. In addition, three Core Areas, including Pine Cove and Lake Fulmor plus one additional location within the Forest Service or MSHCP Conservation Area, will be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP has been designed to preserve the large blocks of areas that contain a variety of potentially suitable Habitats for foraging use during migration as well as blocks of currently unknown sizes that contain potentially suitable nesting Habitat for the species. About 240,570 acres (about 36 percent) of potential breeding and dispersal/migration Habitat for the Nashville warbler will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. The area outside the MSHCP Conservation Area includes 71,100 acres of breeding Habitat within the mountain Bioregions and 169,470 acres of dispersal/ migration Habitat. Of this, approximately 91,510 acres (14 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future nesting locations of this species for loss of Habitat due to modification by humans. FINAL MSHCP 9-74

75 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and oak woodland and forest for dispersal during migration. These Habitats will be conserved in all Bioregions of the Plan Area but do not include the acreage included in Objective 1. included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development in these areas will likely be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the Nashville warbler. Two point locations will be in the Rural/Mountainous zone. Two high precision recent points are located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and are located in non-native grassland observed during migration due to the lowland location. The known nest location areas are not outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) 2 The northern goshawk has been observed in two nest locations within the MSHCP Plan Area. There is an additional potential nest site within Tahquitz Valley and it has generally been documented as occurring as a breeding bird between an elevation of 2,000 to 2,700 meters (Garrett and Dunn 1981). It may occur as a transient migrant almost anywhere else within the Plan Area, has been found in semi-wooded areas in the lowlands, and has been recorded as a migrant within the vicinity of Hemet. The northern goshawk is widely distributed outside of the Plan Area within North America, but not in southern California. Due to its requirements for a large territory as a large predatory bird, it would not be expected to have a large population as a nesting species within the Plan Area and within its preferred Habitat. It is well studied and documented for using mature forest lands. This species is considered to be a Group 2 species because its Conservation requires integration of Habitat and site specific requirements. least 34,020 acres of suitable nesting and wintering Habitat including oak woodland and forest and montane coniferous Habitat within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains Bioregions. These Bioregions provide the suitable nesting elevation of 2,000 to 2,700 meters as well as lower elevation Habitat for wintering. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, protect and buffer from disturbance the 2 known nest sites (Lake Fulmor and San Jacinto Wilderness area), the possible nest site within Tahquitz Valley and any additional nesting locations. Protection is the Conservation of at least 1.6 square kilometers of suitable nesting Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area around each known nest. Buffering of the nest sites will include limiting human activities within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations during the breeding season. achieved by inclusion of at least 34,020 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including oak woodland and forest and montane coniferous forest within the San Jacinto Mountains and San Bernardino Mountains Bioregions. In addition the known nest site locations at Fulmor Lake/Lawlor Lodge, in the vicinity of the San Jacinto Wilderness area in the San Jacinto Mountains, and the potential nest site location at Tahquitz Valley are within the MSHCP Conservation Area. About 12,270 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for the northern goshawk will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. No nest sites are known outside the MSHCP Conservation Area; however no systematic surveys have been conducted to locate nest sites for this species outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. No Take of active nest sites will be permitted. None 3 3 Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to demonstrate continued (once every three years) use and successful reproduction at a minimum of 75% of the known nesting localities (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will protect and buffer from disturbance the known nest sites and any additional nesting locations found in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Buffering of the nest sites will include limiting human activities within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations during the breeding season. Protection is the Conservation at least 1.6 square kilometers of suitable nesting Habitat around each known nest. Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to falconry and logging. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every three years), the continued use of, and successful reproduction at a minimum of 75 percent of the known nesting localities. Successful FINAL MSHCP 9-75

76 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) 3 The northern harrier occurs in a widely scattered distribution predominantly throughout the lowland and foothills Bioregions but may occur sparsely within suitable Habitat in the mountain Bioregions and rarely as a wintering bird within the Desert Transition Bioregion within the Plan Area. Although there are a few known breeding locations (Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Lake Skinner area, Chino Hills, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Elsinore grasslands/collier Marsh, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/east Temecula Creek, and Garner Valley), most of the recorded northern harrier occurrences are of wintering birds. This species has specific Habitat requirements for breeding (primary Habitats: cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh, playas and vernal pools, and grassland) but uses a wider array of Habitat for foraging and wintering (secondary Habitats: agriculture land, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and coastal sage scrub). Although not documented within the CNDDB and UCR databases, the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River contains substantial amounts of suitable Habitat and seems a likely future or undocumented breeding location. Objective 4: least 50,020 acres of suitable primary breeding and foraging Habitat for the northern harrier including grasslands, freshwater marsh, playa and vernal pool, and cismontane alkali marsh. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known and historic breeding locations at 1) Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), 2) the Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), 3) Chino Hills (Proposed Extension of Existing Core 1; 270 acres), 4) Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), 5) Lake Elsinore grasslands/collier Marsh (Subunit 7 of Elsinore Area Plan; 1,810 acres), 6) Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/east Temecula Creek (Proposed Core 7; 50,000 acres), and 7) Garner Valley (represented by suitable Conserved Habitat within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion; 1,850 acres excluding 490 acres of range allotment). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area an additional 17,560 acres of suitable breeding Habitat at Potrero (represented by Subunit 1 of The Pass Area Plan) and the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. least 104,140 acres of suitable secondary foraging and wintering Habitat including agriculture land, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and coastal sage scrub. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area and buffer from disturbance the known nesting locations at the localities listed in Objective 2. Buffering of the nest sites will include Conservation of Habitat within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. achieved by inclusion of at least 50,020 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 104,140 acres of suitable secondary Conserved Habitat and 7 Core Areas and 2 potential Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known nesting areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future) and will conserve within the MSHCP Conservation Area and buffer from disturbance the known nesting locations within the core breeding areas listed above. Buffering of the nest sites will include Conservation of Habitat within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. The current population size of the northern harrier is unknown and most locations are observations of wintering/migrating birds. However, historic breeding locations occur within the Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore grassland/collier Marsh, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Chino Hills, and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek, and Garner Valley areas which are within conserved areas. The Incidental Take of the northern harrier is difficult to quantify at this time owing to our limited knowledge of the precise location and extent of nesting sites and the fact that losses may be masked by fluctuations in abundance and distribution during the life of the permit. However, the level of Take of the northern harrier can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 284,860 acres (65 percent) of potential Habitat for the northern harrier will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of the primary Habitats, 105,380 acres will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, or about 68 percent of the potential primary Habitat, most of which is grassland Habitat. Of the secondary Habitats, about 179,480 acres will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, or about 63 percent of the potential secondary Habitats, most of which is agriculture Habitat. It should also be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area will be subject to the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Based on recent breeding location information, a breeding location is recorded for None 5 5 Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known nesting areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will conserve and buffer from disturbance the known nesting locations listed in Objective 2 of the Species Account. Buffering will include the Conservation of Habitat within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. Particular management emphasis will be given to Habitat loss and conversion, fire and fire abatement measures during the early stages of the breeding cycle. FINAL MSHCP 9-76

77 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known nesting areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Garner Valley. A total of 490 acres of this Core breeding Area is located within the Garner Range Allotment and is considered to not be conserved although it is within the San Bernardino National Forest. No Take of active nest sites will be permitted. A total of 36 point localities will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area, 10 of which are recorded for developed areas. Other areas not conserved where the northern harrier has been documented to occur but that have not been documented for breeding locations include parts of the Temecula/Murrieta Hot Springs area, San Jacinto, Moreno Valley, Hemet, Santa Rosa Plateau outside of the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Reserve, and Beaumont. osprey (Pandion haliaetus) 2 The osprey is relatively widely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. It occurs at almost every open water body within the Plan Area. There are several areas that appear to be Core Areas including the Santa Ana River, Lake Mathews, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Vail Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake, and Lake Hemet. Although it has not been documented to nest within the Plan Area, there is suitable Habitat for nesting and nesting locations will be important to conserve. least 10,340 acres of open water Habitat at the following seven locations: Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail Lake, Lake Perris, and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area. least 5,520 acres of suitable riparian and open water Habitat within the Prado Basin and Santa Ana River. A 100-meter buffer will be established around open water bodies identified in Objective 1 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. achieved by inclusion of at least 15,860 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat, including open water and riparian Habitat in the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, and the establishment of a 100-meter buffer around the open water bodies as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the osprey is unknown, and it has not been confirmed as to whether or not it is a breeding bird in the MSHCP Plan Area. About 2,140 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat for the osprey will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals in this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Potential Core population Areas not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area include Canyon Lake and Lake Hemet. No Take of active nest sites will be permitted. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage any nesting locations known or identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Reserve Managers (including at Lake Perris) will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer (buffering consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris), and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Management emphasis will be given to logging and firewood harvesting and pesticide use. peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) 1 The peregrine falcon has a wide but sparse distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat. Although is nest site is located on the County Building in downtown Riverside, it is predominantly a fall transient with occasional wintering and rare spring least 10,340 acres of open water Habitat at the following seven open water bodies and one drainage: Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail Lake, Lake Perris, achieved by inclusion of at least 10,340 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including open water at Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Approximately 2,140 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat for the peregrine falcon will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public land designations and individuals None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to pesticide use. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time the open water bodies identified in Objective 1 of FINAL MSHCP 9-77

78 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES transient movements. It occurs or has occurred at almost every open water body within the Plan Area and occurs within the Prado Basin on a regular basis. Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River and the 5,520 acres of suitable riparian Habitat within the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. A 100-meter buffer will be established around open water bodies identified in Objective 1 as they are incorporated into the MSHCP Conservation Area. Elsinore, Vail lake, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River and 5,520 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including riparian Habitat within the Prado Basin/ Santa Ana River. The current population size of the peregrine falcon is unknown because it is a casual visitor to the area. There is one nest site currently known for the County Building in downtown Riverside and although this nest site is outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, no Take of raptor nests is authorized. The species appears to respond to elevated waterfowl populations within reservoirs during migration and winter periods. Therefore, local densities will be expected to fluctuate. within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Although the one known nest site is located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area, no Take of raptor nest sites is authorized by the Plan. the Species Account. prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus) - breeding 1 The prairie falcon has a wide but sparse distribution over many Habitat types within the Plan Area. There is one clumped distribution within the Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife area. No nest sites are known for the area although one could be present within the Vail Lake area and one may have been historically present possibly within the Lakeview Mountains area. least 141,510 acres of suitable open and scrub Habitats including grassland, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, and desert scrubs. Conservation will occur in large blocks throughout the Plan Area, including at a minimum: Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (2,690 acres), Lakeview Mountains (7,150 acres), and Vail Lake (12,320 acres). Conservation of this species will be achieved by inclusion of at least 141,510 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including grassland, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, and desert scrubs. In addition, several large blocks of Habitat supporting the current known and potential foraging and potential or historic nesting locations of the prairie falcon will be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area, including the Vail Lake, Lakeview Mountains, and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area. Although it occurs repeatedly in a number of conserved locations, the current population size of the prairie falcon in the Plan Area is unknown. Approximately 182,490 acres (56 percent) of potential Habitat for the prairie falcon will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage cliff faces capable of supporting nesting prairie falcons. FINAL MSHCP 9-78

79 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES purple martin (Progne subis) 3 The purple martin has been recorded in very low numbers spread widely over the Plan Area. Almost all of the observations are of migrating individuals except for the vicinity of the known nesting locations and potential nesting locations. It will forage on the wing in a variety of Habitats during migration, however, it has very specialized nest site requirements that are not clearly defined. It is typically found in association with water, either within a drainage or open water body. Potential nesting areas occur in riparian, oak woodland, and montane coniferous Habitats, however, only two nest sites are documented within Habitats that are widespread within the Plan Area. The two recorded nest sites within the Plan Area including Dripping Springs (near Vail Lake) and Thomas Mountain (south of Hemet Lake). There is one historic nest site at Hemet Lake for which the current status is unknown. A possible nest site may be present within the Cleveland National Forest near the western boundary of the Plan Area. Because the purple martin requires specific and undefined conditions for its nesting location which apparently occur rarely within a broadly distributed variety of Habitats, the purple martin will require Conservation on a landscape level to provide general foraging and nesting Habitat, site specific considerations to conserve nest site locations, and species specific management conditions. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 45,020 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the purple martin including riparian scrub, forest, and woodland, deciduous woodland and forest, and montane coniferous forest. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 2 Core Areas including Dripping Springs (represented by Vail Lake Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres) and Thomas Mountain (represented by the San Bernardino National Forest; 149,750 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. achieved by inclusion of at least 45,020 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Additionally 162,070 acres of Core Areas including the two documented nest sites and the one potential nest site within large blocks of Habitat will be included in the MSCHP Conservation Area. Implementation of Objective 3 for this species will conserve the micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat of the purple martin. About 17,810 acres (about 28 percent)of potential Habitat for the purple martin will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 4,840 acres (8 percent) will be within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. Although these areas will not be part of the managed MSHCP Conservation Area the anticipated levels of development in these areas will likely be consistent with the continued presence of the purple martin. The historic breeding location of the purple martin at Hemet Lake is not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area, however this site may no longer be viable and may not be active. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the two known nest sites for house sparrows or European starlings competing for the nest cavities. If competition is occurring, removal of house sparrows or European starlings may be required. Reserve Managers will augment nesting areas with potential artificial nest sites using gourds, if possible. Management actions may include closing roads near a nest site, fencing hiking trails, or fencing potential access points during the breeding season of the purple martin. Reserve Managers will manage known and future identified nesting localities and protect micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus) 1 The sharp-shinned hawk has a widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable foraging Habitat. It occurs within the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall and may winter within the area. It has not been recorded as breeding within the Plan Area although Habitat is available for that purpose and it has been recorded in the mountainous areas during the summer. It is an opportunistic predator that may forage anywhere within suitable Habitats in the area and has been recorded throughout the entire Plan Area. least 20,500 acres of montane coniferous forest for breeding areas (none have been documented) and 398,280 acres of riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, oak woodland and forest, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub for foraging during wintering and transient movements. achieved by inclusion of at least 418,780 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including montane coniferous forest for potential breeding areas and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest Habitat, oak woodland and forest, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub for foraging. The MSHCP Conservation Area includes preservation of large blocks of areas that contain a variety of potentially suitable Habitat for foraging use during winter and migration as well as very large blocks that contain potentially suitable nesting Habitat. About 240,570 acres (about 36 percent) of potential Habitat for the sharp-shinned hawk will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 91,510 acres of potential Habitat (14 percent) are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. While the Rural/ Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-79

80 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES areas will likely be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the sharp-shinned hawk. Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) 2 The Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow is widely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat in the Riverside Lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. It is absent from higher elevation Bioregions and the Desert Transition Bioregion. The Southern California rufouscrowned sparrow occurs within several Core Areas including Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Gavilan Plateau, Box Springs Mountains, Lake Perris, Badlands, west of Lake Elsinore, Wasson Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau, Lake Skinner, De Portola Road east of Bachelor Mountain, Wilson Valley, and the Hogbacks. The Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow is a year-round resident but may make movements to lower elevations for the winter. Because rufous-crowned sparrow Habitat requirements are well known, the species occurs widely within these Habitats in the Riverside lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions, and specific Core Areas exist for the species, it is anticipated that Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow will respond well to a landscape level of management with site specific requirements. least 82,640 acres of suitable primary Habitat for the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow including coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and desert scrubs in Riverside Lowland, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 9 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. Core areas will include: Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Box Springs Mountains (Existing Noncontiguous Habitat Block A plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 8; 2,920 acres), Lake Perris (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), the Badlands (Proposed Core 3; 24,920 acres), west of Lake Elsinore (represented by Existing Core B; 71,490 acres), Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Lake Skinner (including Diamond Valley Lake; Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres), and the Hogbacks (Proposed Core 2; 5,050 acres). least 174,620 acres of suitable secondary Habitats for the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow including chaparral and grasslands in Riverside Lowland, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. achieved by inclusion of at least 82,640 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 174,620 acres of suitable secondary Conserved Habitat and 9 of 12 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, 50 recent and high precision locations will be inside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public lands, all of which are recorded for the suitable Habitat of the southern California rufous-crowned sparrow. Conservation also will be provided for the Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and areas important for dispersal. The current population size of the southern California rufous-crowned sparrow is unknown, however the species is well documented as to the Habitat that it uses and locations that constitute Core Areas. The Incidental Take of the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of Southern California rufous-crowned sparrows can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 70,980 acres of potential primary Habitat for the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 46 percent of the total potential primary Habitat. Approximately 175,010 acres of secondary Habitat for the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, about 50 percent of the potential secondary Habitat. Individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 26,200 acres (17 percent) of potential primary Habitat and 58,680 acres (17 percent) of potential secondary Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. Core Areas not conserved within Criteria Area and Public/ Quasi-Public designations include the Gavilan Plateau, Santa Rosa Plateau, and De Portola Road east of Bachelor Mountain. A total of 33 (22 percent) of the recent and high precision locations will be in the Rural/ None 8 Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will conduct baseline surveys as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by rufous-crowned sparrows within the Core Area. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the sage scrub vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create sage scrub within the Core Area to keep the coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the acreage defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the occupied rufous-crowned sparrow Habitat, as determined using existing information and baseline surveys, within each Core Area. Additional management measures will address predation and harassment by domestic cats and dogs and competition from non-native species. FINAL MSHCP 9-80

81 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Mountainous zone and 66 (44 percent) are outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of the 66 points located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, 32 are mapped in existing residential/urban/exotic areas and may no longer be extant. southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) 3 The southwestern willow flycatcher is narrowly distributed at few locations within the Plan Area. Although the preferred Habitat, riparian woodland and select other forests, is well distributed within all Bioregions and spread over the entire Plan Area, few current locations for the willow flycatcher have been documented. The southwestern willow flycatcher has specific Habitat requirements and conditions within the larger Habitat category within which it occurs. Because it requires specific Habitat conditions, occurs in few locations within a larger Habitat category, and occurs in low densities, the southwestern willow flycatcher will require Conservation on a landscape level, site specific considerations for the known locations, and species specific management conditions as a Group 3 species. least 10,580 acres of suitable Habitat for the southwestern willow flycatcher including montane riparian forest, riparian scrub, arundo/riparian forest, riparian forest, southern cottonwood/willow riparian, southern sycamore/alder riparian woodland, and southern willow scrub. least 6 Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. Core areas shall include the following areas: 1) Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, including Chino Creek, the Santa Ana River both up- and downstream of the Prado Dam, and the seven 2001 territories (9,670 acres); 2) Temescal Wash including Alberhill Creek (estimated as Subunit 3 plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 6 and Proposed Linkage 2; 4,290 acres); 3) Murrieta Creek (Proposed Constrained Linkage 13; 1,400 acres); 4) Temecula Creek (Proposed Constrained Linkages 14 and 24; 830 acres); 5) San Timoteo Canyon (Proposed Linkages 5, 12 and Proposed Linkage 22; 2,140 acres); 6) Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres). Each Core Area will include at least 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the riparian woodland and scrub Habitat and contain unfragmented Habitat and landscape Linkages to other Core Areas. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important to the southwestern willow flycatcher. This Objective shall be met through implementation achieved by inclusion of at least 10,580 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 6 Core Areas and the additional current known locations within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known southwestern willow flycatcher occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Implementation of Objective 3 will provide the Conservation of additional areas within the Criteria Area that are identified as important to the southwestern willow flycatcher through wetland mapping assembled as part of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy (Section 6.1.2). This objective provides for Conservation of 100 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the flycatcher. The survey requirements within this objective will be waived upon demonstrating that at least two Core Areas contain at least 10 successful flycatcher breeding pairs and at least four additional Core Areas each support breeding populations of at least 5 pairs of flycatchers. About 3,220 acres (about 23 percent) of suitable southwestern willow flycatcher Habitat will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands and individuals within these areas may be subject to Incidental Take. However, implementation of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools (Section 6.1.2) and adjacency policies, avoidance of clearing of suitable Habitat in the breeding season and protection and management of 90 percent of the area with Conservation value of any site where the species is found will minimize Take of the species. A total of 5 of 17 high precision points are located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, all of which are located outside suitable Habitat areas within existing residential/urban/ exotic areas, non-native grassland, or open water. None of the Core Areas for the species and none of the current known locations are outside of the MSCHP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools). 3 3 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known southwestern willow flycatcher occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will develop a species-specific management plan or general management plan element that clearly identifies Conservation measures to ensure, to the extent possible, that the species has sufficient suitable Habitat and that the species is not impacted by such environmental perturbations as fire, environmental contaminants, fragmentation-induced phenomena such as mesopredator release, and the direct and indirect impacts associated with cattle grazing and the presence of non-native plants and animals. Reserve Managers will manage the riparian Habitats within the current documented locations of the southwestern willow flycatcher at the Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake, Box Springs Mountain, Alberhill Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Reserve, Lake Skinner, Bautista Creek, and Potrero Creek. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve the potential flycatcher Habitat (including potential Core and satellite Areas and Habitat Linkages) in and along Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Wilson Valley, Bautista Creek, Tucalota Creek, and San Timoteo Canyon. Management emphasis will be given to maintaining or improving hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively restoring, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will also manage this species for cowbird parasitism. Reserve Managers will buffer known and future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer. FINAL MSHCP 9-81

82 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES of the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and if suitable southwestern willow flycatcher Habitat, defined as cottonwood or willow riparian Habitat adjacent to flowing water or saturated soils, is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a focused survey for southwestern willow flycatcher shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. If survey results are positive, 100 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the flycatcher shall be conserved in a manner consistent with Conservation of the flycatcher. This will involve including 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the Habitat conserved. The survey requirements within this objective will be waived upon demonstrating that at least two Core Areas contain at least 10 successful flycatcher breeding pairs and at least four additional Core Areas each support breeding populations of at least 5 pairs of flycatchers. Objective 4: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known southwestern willow flycatcher occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. FINAL MSHCP 9-82

83 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Swainson s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) 1 The Swainson's hawk has a sparse and widespread distribution throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within almost every Habitat that occurs within the Plan Area. It occurs within the Plan Area as a transient in the spring and fall and may occasionally winter within the area. It does not require specific conditions or locations for nesting because it does not nest in the region. It is an opportunistic predator that may forage anywhere in the area. least 141,960 acres of grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, agriculture (field crops) and forested areas containing potential perch and roost sites including peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and riparian scrub, woodland and forest Habitats. achieved by inclusion of at least 141,960 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, agriculture (field crops), peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and riparian scrub, woodland and forest. The current population size of the Swainson's hawk is unknown, however the foraging Habitat requirements are well defined. The species is not predictable in its occurrence and may vary in number within the area from a few to many individuals but only uses the Habitats within the Plan Area during transient migratory movements. About 257,220 acres of potential Habitat for the Swainson's hawk will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 64 percent of the total potential Habitat and individuals occurring within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 8 General Management Measure 1. tree swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) 2 The tree swallow is widely but sparsely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. Breeding locations have been documented at Prado Basin and along the Santa Ana River. Additionally, Core Areas may be present at Wasson Canyon, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner, Vail Lake, and Wilson Valley, based on repeated observations of tree swallows in these areas. The species has also been reported at Lake Mathews, Alberhill Creek, Lake Elsinore, Murrieta Creek, Lake Perris, and Santa Rosa Plateau. Because Habitat characteristics for this species are well known including open water for foraging and riparian scrub and water-associated woodland and forest for nesting, and the species occurs in all Bioregions of the Plan Area, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, it is anticipated that tree swallows will respond well to a landscape level with site specific requirements. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 44,420 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the tree swallow including open water, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, and oak woodland and forest Habitats in all Bioregions of the Plan Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 6 known Core Areas including the breeding populations in the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres) and other Core Areas at Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), Lake Skinner (Existing Core J plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), and Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres). Include additional areas that may contain breeding populations including Lake Mathews, Lake Perris, and Lake Elsinore, and drainages and woodland achieved by the inclusion of at least 44,420 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will conserve the micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. The six Core Areas of the tree swallow are conserved within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area and additional areas where the tree swallow has been observed and that contain potential Habitat are also conserved. The Incidental Take of the tree swallow is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of tree swallows can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 14,580 acres (25 percent) of potential Habitat for the tree swallow will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None of the Core Areas will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of this, approximately 5,430 acres (9 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving hydrological process on the Santa Ana River and any other hydrologic system important to maintain the integrity of nesting sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional Habitat and/or nesting areas in the areas identified in Objective 3 and at Lake Elsinore, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews, and Lake Perris. Reserve Managers will manage nesting Habitat on the Santa Ana River and in other Core breeding Areas by managing for snags and older tree stands of oak and cottonwood. Reserve Managers will assure the continued presence of nesting tree swallows at a minimum of 70% of the locations in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur. Presence/ absence must be demonstrated at least once every seven years. FINAL MSHCP 9-83

84 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES areas within the Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area, will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, and the existing zoning/ordinances for these areas do not preclude development and could allow substantial fragmentation and/or degradation of Habitat for proposed covered species, the anticipated levels of development in these areas may be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the tree swallow. It should also be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area would be subject to the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) - colony 3 The tricolored blackbird occurs in a widely scattered distribution throughout the lowland and foothills Bioregions of the Plan Area. A few current or historic breeding locations have been documented. It has specific Habitat requirements, including patches of dense emergent vegetation as primary Habitat for breeding. It also requires a variety of open Habitats as secondary Habitat and is occasionally known to nest in riparian woodland areas. This species occurs in several Core Areas, including the floodplain of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek, and Lake Hemet, which are either currently used or have been used in the past by tricolored blackbird breeding colonies. Although the tricolored blackbird is not documented to occur in the Santa Ana River and Prado Basin in the CNDDB and UCR databases, these areas contain substantial amounts of suitable Habitat and seem likely future or undocumented breeding locations. least 420 acres of suitable primary Habitat for the tricolored blackbird including freshwater marsh and cismontane alkali marsh Habitats within the Riverside Lowlands and Foothills Bioregions. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 5 Core Areas, including San Jacinto River floodplain (Proposed Core 5, Existing Constrained Linkage C, Proposed Extension of Existing Core 4, and Proposed Constrained Linkage 19; 7,320 acres), Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres), Collier Marsh and Lake Elsinore grasslands (Subunit 3 of Elsinore Area Plan; 1,810 acres), Alberhill (Subunit 2 of Elsinore Area Plan; 3,460 acres), and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek (Proposed Core 7; 50,000 acres). achieved by inclusion of at least 420 acres of suitable primary Conserved Habitat and 66,510 acre of suitable secondary Conserved Habitat and 5 Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within at least one of the identified Core Areas and will conserve within the MSHCP Conservation Area and establish a 100-meter buffer around any known nesting locations. Implementation of Objective 6 will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining, preserving, and/or, if feasible, restoring hydrological processes and Habitat The Incidental Take of the tricolored blackbird is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of tricolored blackbirds can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 193,240 acres of potential Habitat for the tricolored blackbird will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 74 percent of the total potential Habitat and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of the primary Habitats, 60 acres will be outside the MSHCP None 5 5 General Management Measures 4 and 6. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within at least one of the identified Core Areas. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and preserving hydrological processes and Habitat suitable for tricolored blackbird breeding within the San Jacinto River floodplain, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species. Reserve Managers will conserve, protect and buffer with a 100-meter distance around any known nesting locations. Particular management emphasis will be given to Habitat loss, predation, poisoning, human disturbance and pesticide use. FINAL MSHCP 9-84

85 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Because the tricolored blackbird requires specific Habitat conditions, occurs in few locations within a broad Habitat category, and uses a well defined Habitat that is narrowly distributed for its primary Habitat, this species will require site specific considerations, protection of preferred Habitat on a landscape basis, and species-specific Conservation measures. Objective 4: Objective 5: Objective 6: least 66,510 acres of secondary Habitat for the tricolored blackbird including playa and vernal pool, grasslands, agriculture land, and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest within the Riverside Lowlands and Foothills Bioregions. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within at least one of the identified Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, ensure Habitat support functions by maintaining, preserving, and/or if feasible, restoring hydrological processes and Habitat suitable for tricolored blackbird breeding within the San Jacinto River floodplain, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek Core Areas. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area and establish a 100-meter buffer around any known nesting locations. suitable for tricolored blackbird breeding within the San Jacinto River floodplain, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek Core Areas. The current population size of the tricolored blackbird is unknown, however the historic and recent breeding locations are conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Conservation Area, or about 13 percent of the potential primary Habitat. Of the secondary Habitats, about 193,180 acres will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, or about 74 percent of the potential secondary Habitats. It should also be noted that wetland Habitats located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area will be subject to the Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Based on the information from CNDDB, a breeding location is recorded for Lake Hemet. This potential breeding colony site is outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area but within the area subject to protection by the MSHCP Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy. A total of 14 of 16 point localities will be located outside the MSCHP Conservation Area, however these point locations were recorded in foraging Habitats such as field crops, chaparral, sage scrub, and residential which are Habitats not suitable for breeding. turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) - breeding 3 The turkey vulture is generally widely distributed throughout the Plan Area. There are fewer observations within the mountainous Bioregions, however this could be due to lack of survey effort or reporting in these areas. There are concentrations of observation locations within the southwestern portion of the Plan Area from Lake Elsinore to the Santa Rosa Plateau, east to Wilson Valley and Lake Skinner. The focus of this planning effort is on the nesting of the turkey vulture. There are two recorded nest sites within the Plan Area: Bernasconi Hills near Lake Perris and Rawson Canyon near Lake Skinner. Turkey least 457,160 acres of suitable foraging Habitat for the turkey vulture including montane coniferous forest, oak woodlands and forests, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, desert scrubs, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, grassland, and playa and vernal pool. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, areas where the turkey vulture has been observed and that may function as important foraging locations, achieved by inclusion of at least 457,160 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 140,810 acres of Core Areas within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The two known nesting locations will be conserved within large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area and the nest locations will be buffered from disturbance. Additional cliff areas for potential nesting The Incidental Take of the turkey vulture is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of turkey vultures can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 342,360 acres (43 percent) of potential Habitat for the turkey vulture None 8 3 Maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, the two known nesting locations, and at any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Reserve Managers will ensure buffering of the nest sites, which will include restricting human activities within a 1/2-mile radius around each of the nesting locations during the breeding season (e.g., fencing hiking trails or fencing potential access points). For Lake Perris, buffering will be consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris. Reserve Managers will ensure the Conservation of cliff areas in the Criteria Area that are capable of supporting nesting turkey FINAL MSHCP 9-85

86 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES vultures have strict nest-site requirements and few potential sites are located within the Plan Area. Because the turkey vulture requires specific conditions for its nesting location which may occur within a broad variety of Habitats at few locations within the Plan Area, the turkey vulture will require site-specific and species specific considerations and management requirements. including Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2; 23,710 acres), Sedco Hills (Proposed Linkage 8; 5,470 acres), Lake Skinner/ Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, and 7 and Existing Constrained Linkage A; 29,370 acres), Wilson Valley/Sage (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres), Badlands (Proposed Core 3; 24,920 acres), and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), and a portion of Santa Rosa Plateau (Existing Core F plus Proposed Linkages 9 and 10, and Proposed Constrained Linkages 9 through 12; 14,130 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, protect, and buffer from disturbance the 2 known nesting locations of the turkey vulture including the site within the Bernasconi Hills (historic) and the site within Rawson Canyon (currently active). Protection is the Conservation of undeveloped Habitats in the MSHCP Conservation Area within a 1 mile radius of each nesting location. Buffering of the two known nest sites will include restricting human activities, within the MSHCP Conservation Area, within a 1/2 mile radius around each of the nesting locations during the breeding season (e.g., fencing hiking trails or fencing potential access points). also will be included within the MSHCP Conservation area. In addition, Objective 4 will maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at the two known nesting locations, and at any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. A total of 53 point localities will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area and 19 point locations are within the Rural/ Mountainous category. Many of these 72 point localities are likely of winter migrants, which are not the focus of the MSHCP plan. Both of the nesting locations are within conserved areas. Some of the foraging area within which there are a concentration of point locations will not be conserved within the Santa Rosa Plateau. vultures. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing human disturbance, canid predation, and pesticide use. Objective 4: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at the two known nesting locations, and at nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area cliff areas that are capable of supporting nesting turkey vultures. FINAL MSHCP 9-86

87 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis) 3 The western yellow-billed cuckoo occurs as a breeding bird in only one known location within the Plan Area. It has been recently documented in two other locations but breeding is not confirmed. Although the preferred Habitat, riparian scrub and forest, is well distributed at scattered locations within the Plan Area in the lowland Bioregions, the western yellow-billed cuckoo apparently no longer inhabits much of this Habitat. The western yellow-billed cuckoo has specific narrow Habitat requirements and conditions within the larger Habitat category within which it occurs. Because it requires specific conditions (including broad tracts of suitable riparian Habitat), occurs in few locations within a large Habitat category, and occurs in low densities, the western yellow-billed cuckoo will require Conservation on a landscape level to preserve the suitable Habitat, site specific considerations for the known locations, and species specific management conditions. least 8,970 acres of suitable Habitat for the western yellow-billed cuckoo including southern cottonwood/willow riparian, riparian scrub, riparian forest, and southern willow scrub. least five Core Areas and interconnecting Linkages. Core areas shall include the following areas: 1) Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, including Chino Creek, Mill Creek, and the Santa Ana River both upand downstream of the Prado Dam (9,670 acres); 2) Temescal Wash including Alberhill Creek (estimated as subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 6 and Proposed Linkage 2; 4,290 acres); 3) Murrieta Creek (Proposed Constrained Linkage 13; 1,400 acres); 4) Temecula Creek (Proposed Constrained Linkages 14 and 24; 830 acres); 5) San Timoteo Canyon (Proposed Linkages 5, 12 and Proposed Linkage 22; 2,140 acres). Each Core Area will include at least 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the riparian woodland and scrub Habitat and contain unfragmented Habitat and landscape Linkages to other Core Areas. The Core Areas must support a population of 20 pairs of cuckoos combined total. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain or, if feasible, improve the riparian Habitats within the recent documented locations of the western yellow-billed cuckoo at the Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, North Peak Conservation Bank and Poorman Reservoir. Additionally, maintain or, if feasible, improve the potential yellow-billed cuckoo Habitat (including potential core and other areas) and potential Habitat Linkages within the riparian areas along the Santa Ana River both upstream and downstream from Prado Dam, Temescal Wash including Alberhill Creek, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley, Bautista Creek, Tucalota Creek, Lake Skinner, achieved by inclusion of at least 8,970 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and at least 5 Core Areas and the additional current known locations within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP Conservation Area will maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known western yellow-billed cuckoo occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Implementation of Objective 4 will provide the Conservation of additional areas within the Criteria Area that are identified as important to the western yellow-billed cuckoo through wetland mapping assembled as part of the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy. This objective provides for Conservation of 100 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the western yellow-billed cuckoo. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will maintain or, if feasible, improve the riparian Habitats within the recent documented locations and potential Habitat and potential Habitat Linkages within riparian areas by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and, if feasible, by selectively restoring, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded. The MSHCP has been designed to preserve the areas with the known Core Areas of the species, including the Prado Approximately 2,580 acres (about 22 percent) of suitable yellow-billed cuckoo Habitat will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi Public Lands and individuals within these areas may be subject to Incidental Take. None of the Core Areas for this species are outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi Public Lands. Additionally, implementation of the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools and adjacency policies, maintenance and improvement of Habitat, and protection and management of 100 percent of the area with Conservation value of any site where the species is found will minimize Take of the species. Yes, see Section (Protection of Species Associated with Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools). 3 3 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will implement a species-specific management plan or general management plan element that clearly identifies Conservation measures to ensure, to the extent possible, that the species has sufficient suitable Habitat and that the species is not impacted by such environmental perturbations as fire, environmental contaminants, fragmentation-induced phenomena such as mesopredator release, and the direct and indirect impacts associated with cattle grazing and the presence of non-native plants and animals. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area as identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Area. The maintenance or improvement of Habitat at all locales will be accomplished by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively enhancing, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known western yellow-billed cuckoo occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will buffer known and future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer. FINAL MSHCP 9-87

88 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 4: Potrero Creek, and San Timoteo Canyon. The maintenance or improvement of Habitat at all locales will be accomplished by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and, if feasible, by selectively restoring, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified above will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Area and implement a program to maintain or, if feasible, restore, and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Area. The Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy (Section 6.1.2) and Guidelines Pertaining to Urban/ Wildlands Interface (Section 6.1.4) will be implemented within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area additional areas within the Criteria Area identified as important to the western yellow-billed cuckoo. This Objective shall be met through implementation of the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Wetland mapping assembled as part of that policy shall be reviewed as part of the project review process and if suitable western yellow-billed cuckoo Habitat, defined as cottonwood or willow riparian Habitat adjacent to flowing water or saturated soils, is identified on the wetland maps and cannot be avoided, a focused survey for western yellow-billed cuckoo shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocols. If survey results are positive, 100 percent of the occupied portions of the property that provide for long-term Conservation value for the cuckoo shall be conserved in a manner consistent with Conservation of the cuckoo. This will involve including 100 meters of undeveloped landscape adjacent to the Habitat conserved. Basin/Santa Ana River. The Prado Basin is an important Core Area for the western yellow-billed cuckoo. Additionally, some of the smaller recently occupied riparian Habitat patches, and the larger riparian Habitat blocks that apparently have not been recently occupied, may provide management and restoration opportunities that are no longer available within portions of the core population areas. The Conservation Strategy for this species includes: (1) pre-construction surveys of potential Habitat areas that cannot be avoided, (2) assessments of the current and future utility of Habitat areas, and (3) the means to secure or otherwise conserve additional Habitat areas to expand the MSHCP Conservation Area until the continuing preservation of the yellow-billed cuckoo and its Habitat results in the Conservation of the species that is currently on the verge of extirpation within the Plan Area and a large majority of California as a whole. FINAL MSHCP 9-88

89 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the known western yellow-billed cuckoo occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. white-faced ibis (Plegadis chihi) 2 The white-faced ibis is sparsely distributed throughout the Riverside Lowlands Bioregions of the MSHCP Plan Area within its suitable Habitat. It occurs at some of the areas of freshwater marsh Habitat but is only documented for breeding at two locations: Prado Basin and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area. There appear to be several Core Areas in addition to the two breeding areas including a section of the Santa Ana River, Collier Marsh, and San Jacinto Valley. The breeding locations are few and there are not likely to be more that have not been discovered. These breeding locations require Conservation. The species uses a wide variety of Habitats for foraging during winter and transient visits including agricultural land, grassland, and areas at the edges of drainages. It is very opportunistic and flexible for foraging requirements. least 340 acres of suitable primary breeding Habitat including freshwater marsh Habitat within the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion. least the two known breeding locations and foraging areas at the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres) and Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area (Subunit 4 of Reche Canyon/Badlands Area Plan; 2,690 acres), and the core foraging areas at Collier Marsh (Proposed Linkage 2; 160 acres) and San Jacinto Valley (Subunit 1 of Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan; 3,650 acres). least 57,620 acres of suitable secondary foraging Habitat including playas and vernal pools, agriculture (field crops), grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, and riparian scrub, woodland and forest within the Riverside lowlands Bioregion. achieved by inclusion of at least 340 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat composed of the nesting Habitat (freshwater marsh) and 57,620 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat composed of the foraging Habitat (playas and vernal pool, agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest). In addition, the two core breeding areas as well as the core foraging area at Collier Marsh, along the Santa Ana River, and within San Jacinto Valley are included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The current population size of the white-faced ibis is unknown due to its nomadic and transient nature. About 60 acres (about 15 percent) of potential primary nesting Habitat for the white-faced ibis will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. About 186,500 acres of potential secondary foraging Habitat for the white-faced ibis will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, or about 76 percent of the total potential Habitat. Of this, there is no primary nesting Habitat within Rural/ Mountainous designations and a limited amount of secondary foraging Habitat (6,290 acres or 3 percent). The Rural/Mountainous designation areas are not within areas used by the white-faced ibis. It should be noted that the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools policy presented in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I, will apply to wetland Habitat areas outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to flood control, Habitat fragmentation, human disturbance and pesticide use. white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) 2 The white-tailed kite is widely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat in the Riverside Lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. It is absent from the higher elevation Bioregions and the desert transition bioregion. There are least 19,880 acres of suitable breeding Habitat including riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and oak woodland and forest within the Riverside Lowlands, achieved by inclusion of at least 301,770 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including 281,890 acres of foraging and 19,880 acres of breeding Habitat. Ten of About 400,190 acres (57 percent) of potential breeding and foraging Habitat for the white-tailed kite will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations and None 8 3 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage, protect, and buffer from disturbance, the known winter roost area along San Timoteo Creek and any winter roost locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Buffering of the winter roost area will include FINAL MSHCP 9-89

90 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES several Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley, Lake Skinner, and Lake Perris/Mystic Lake. Concentrations of winter roosting white-tailed kites occur along San Timoteo Creek and in the Murrieta Hot Springs area of French Valley. White-tailed kites typically use riparian scrub, forest and woodland, and oak woodland and forest for breeding and use a wide variety of more open grassland/agricultural land and scrub lands for foraging. Objective 4: Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 10 core breeding areas including 1) the Prado Basin/ Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), 2) Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (Existing Core C; 15,610 acres), 3) Temescal Wash (Subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 6 and Proposed Linkage 2; 4,290 acres), 4) Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres), 5) Murrieta Creek (Subunit 1 of Southwest Area Plan; 2,060 acres), 6) Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), 7) Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), 8) Wilson Valley (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 33,540 acres), 9) Lake Skinner including the Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Core 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres), and 10) Lake Perris/Mystic Lake (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres). least 281,890 acres of suitable foraging Habitat including agriculture, grasslands, cismontane alkali marsh, playas and vernal pools, freshwater marsh, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral within the Riverside Lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, protect, and buffer from disturbance, the known winter roost area along San Timoteo Creek and any winter roost locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Buffering of the winter roost area will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat within a 250 meter radius within the MSHCP Conservation Area around the roost site and may include a variety of Habitats. the Core Areas of the white-tailed kite will be conserved and one of the winter roost areas will be conserved in large blocks of Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The winter roost areas will be provided protection and buffered from disturbance which will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat within a 250 meter radius around the roost site. The continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core breeding Areas (including any Core breeding Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future) will be maintained and documented once every 3 years. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. The current population size of the white-tailed kite is unknown, however a sizable data base is present within the UCR database and the species appears well represented throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within the Riverside Lowland, Santa Ana Mountains, and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. individuals within these areas are subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 96,620 acres (14 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. A total of 9,730 acres of potential breeding Habitat (33 percent) is outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. A total of 390,460 acres, 58 percent, of the potential foraging Habitat is outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, the anticipated levels of development in these areas may be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the white-tailed kite. A total of 39 point localities will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, these locations, if within a wetland area, will continue to receive protection by the Riparian/Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy (Section 6.1.2). No Take of active nest sites will be permitted. Most of the Core breeding Area in the Santa Rosa Plateau area is within the Rural/Mountainous designation and will not be conserved. The Core winter roost Area of the white-tailed kite in the Murrieta Hot Springs area of French Valley will not be conserved. Conservation of undeveloped Habitat within a 250 meter radius within the MSHCP Conservation Area around the roost site and may include a variety of Habitats. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core breeding Areas (including any Core breeding Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to Habitat loss and urbanization, Habitat degradation especially the loss of nest trees and foraging Habitat, clean farming techniques, competition for nest sites with other raptors and corvids. FINAL MSHCP 9-90

91 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core breeding Areas (including any Core breeding Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Williamson s sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) 2 The species has declined rangewide, presumably from loss of large snags for nesting. Very little is known about its status, abundance, and distribution in the MSHCP Plan Area; there are only 5 known data points. Its Conservation is largely dependent on activities within the San Bernardino National Forest and the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and private inholdings on these lands. Habitat for the Williamson's sapsucker includes montane coniferous forest dominated by lodgepole pines and firs, and oak woodlands and forests in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains. Because the Habitat types that the Williamson's sapsucker uses for breeding and foraging are known but it requires specific micro-habitat for nesting sites (snags), it has been placed as a Group 2 species. least 34,020 acres of suitable breeding, wintering, and dispersal Habitat for the Williamson's sapsucker including oak woodland and forest and montane coniferous forest within the San Bernardino Mountains and San Jacinto Mountains Bioregions. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area micro-habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. achieved by inclusion of at least 34,020 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and will include the preferred microhabitat composed of groups of snags. The current population size of this species is not known and data on point localities is very low. About 12,270 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for the Williamson's sapsucker will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within this Habitat will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 890 acres (2 percent) of potential Habitat are located within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. This does not represent a significant contribution to the Conservation of the Williamson's sapsucker and the areas are located outside of the important breeding Habitat for the species. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to prevent Habitat degradation and loss of snags, and timber harvesting. Wilson s warbler (Wilsonia pusilla) 1 The Wilson's warbler has a sparse and widespread distribution within almost every Habitat that occurs within the MSHCP Plan Area. Although few documented records exist for the Wilson's warbler within the Plan Area, the literature suggests that the species forages within the lowland and foothills Bioregions of the Plan Area in almost every Habitat as a transient in the spring and fall and breeds within the mountain Bioregions in shrub and scrub Habitat, wet and montane meadow, and edges of riparian and forested Habitats. The Wilson's warbler has not been reported to winter within the Plan Area. Because the Wilson's warbler is opportunistic and widespread during migration and its breeding Habitat requirements are well known, it is classified as a Group 1 species. least 198,850 acres of suitable montane meadow, riparian scrub, oak woodland and forest, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub within the San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. least 192,140 acres of suitable dispersal and migration Habitat and interconnecting Linkages within the MSHCP Conservation Area for transient migration movements including grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, desert scrubs, chaparral, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and oak woodland and forest. achieved by inclusion of at least 198,850 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including the breeding Habitat composed of montane meadow, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and oak woodlands and forest. In addition, at least 192,140 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat including the transient/migration Habitat are included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSHCP Conservation Area has been designed to preserve the large blocks of areas that contain a variety of potentially suitable Habitats for foraging use during migration as well as very large blocks that contain potentially suitable nesting Habitat for the species. The Incidental Take of the Wilson's warbler is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of Wilson's warblers can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 71,030 acres (26 percent) of potential breeding Habitat for the Wilson's warbler will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands designations and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 39,460 acres (15 percent) will be within None 8 General Management Measures 1 and 4. FINAL MSHCP 9-91

92 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Rural/Mountainous designation areas. About 219,680 acres (53 percent) potential transient migratory movement Habitat for the Wilson's warbler will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/ Quasi-Public Lands designations. Of this, approximately 58,800 acres (14 percent) will be within Rural/Mountainous designation areas. Although these areas will not be part of the managed MSHCP Conservation Area, the anticipated levels of development in these areas may be consistent with the continued presence of the Wilson's warbler. yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens) 2 The yellow-breasted chat is sparsely and widely distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. There appear to be several Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Temescal Wash including the Alberhill Creek tributary, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake area, San Timoteo Creek, and Canyon Lake. Because this species is associated with riparian woodland and riparian scrub Habitats, occurs in a wide but sparse distribution in the lowland and foothills areas of the Plan Area within suitable Habitat, but has specific locations that are Core Areas, this species will be managed at a landscape level with site specific requirements. least 9,430 acres of suitable Habitat for the yellow-breasted chat including riparian woodland and riparian scrub Habitat within the Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. least 5 Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), Temescal Wash including Alberhill Creek (estimated as Subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 6 and Proposed Linkage 2 at 4,290 acres), Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), and San Timoteo Creek (Subunit 3 of The Pass Area Plan; 2,290 acres) and maintain adequate Habitat Linkages between Core Areas and smaller drainages and tributaries. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. achieved by the inclusion of at least 9,430 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and five Core Areas which total 29,420 acres. The MSHCP has been designed to preserve the important Core Area representing the larger known populations at Prado Basin/Santa Ana River as well as four other Core Areas. In addition, the MSHCP Plan will maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Preservation of sites containing smaller numbers of yellow-breasted chats are likely to be just as important as the large population sites. These small populations, documented above to be largely preserved are important to prevent further isolation of remaining breeding groups. Additionally, some of these smaller riparian Habitat patches may provide restoration About 2,780 acres (23 percent) of potential Habitat for the yellow-breasted chat will be outside the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas may be subject to Incidental Take. A total of one of six Core Areas, the population located at Canyon Lake, will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 5 5 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat and implement exotic species control programs within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). This species will also be managed for possible brown-headed cowbird parasitism. FINAL MSHCP 9-92

93 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES opportunities that are no longer available within some of the larger riparian systems. yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia brewsteri) 2 The yellow warbler is relatively well distributed throughout the MSHCP Plan Area within suitable Habitat. There appear to be several Core Areas including the Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Temescal Canyon and its tributaries, Wasson Canyon, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, Vail Lake area, Wilson Creek, San Timoteo Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau, and drainages and woodland areas within the San Bernardino National Forest. Because Habitat characteristics of the yellow warbler are well known to include riparian scrub and forest and woodland and the yellow warbler occurs in all Bioregions of the Plan Area, but has specific locations that are core areas, the yellow warbler is classified as a Group 2 species and will be managed on a landscape level with site specific requirements. least 34,080 acres of suitable nesting and foraging Habitat for the yellow warbler including riparian scrub, woodland, and forest and oak woodland and forest. least 9 Core Areas including Prado Basin/Santa Ana River (9,670 acres), Temescal Canyon including tributaries such as Alberhill Creek (estimated as Subunit 3 of Temescal Canyon Area Plan plus Proposed Constrained Linkage 6 and Proposed Linkage 2; 4,290 acres), Wasson Canyon (Subunit 5 of Elsinore Area Plan; 2,320 acres) Temecula Creek (Subunit 2 of Southwest Area Plan; 850 acres), Murrieta Creek (Subunit 1 of Southwest Area Plan; 2,060 acres), Vail Lake (Subunit 3 of Southwest Area Plan; 12,320 acres), Wilson Creek (Subunit 2 of REMAP Area Plan; 33,540 acres), San Timoteo Creek (Subunit 3 of The Pass Area Plan; 2,290 acres), and drainages and woodland areas within the San Bernardino National Forest (13,720 acres). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. achieved by inclusion of at least 34,080 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat. Nine of the ten Core populations will be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Conservation of the small patches of riparian Habitat and the sites containing small numbers of yellow warblers may contribute to the populations within the Plan Area. These small populations, documented above to be largely preserved are important to prevent further isolation of remaining Core breeding groups. In addition, Objective 3 for this species will maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at 75 percent of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. The Incidental Take of the yellow warbler is difficult to quantify due to our limited knowledge of its distribution and abundance within the Plan Area. The maximum level of Incidental Take of yellow warblers can be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of potential Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. About 12,710 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for the yellow warbler will be outside the Criteria Area or Public/Quasi-Public designations, and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 5,390 acres (12 percent) of potential Habitat will be located within areas designated as Rural/Mountainous. While the Rural/Mountainous areas are not included within the MSHCP Conservation Area, will not be managed for the benefit of wildlife, and the existing zoning/ordinances for these areas do not preclude development and could allow substantial fragmentation and/or degradation of Habitat for proposed covered species, the anticipated levels of development in these areas may be consistent with maintaining some Habitat for the yellow warbler. The Core Area within the Santa Rosa Plateau will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within this area will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. None 5 5 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain the riparian Habitats within the Core population Areas. The maintenance of Habitat will be accomplished by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals (including brown-headed cowbirds). Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Area. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). FINAL MSHCP 9-93

94 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES MAMMALS Aguanga kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami collinus) 3 The Aguanga kangaroo rat has a narrow distribution within the Plan Area, with known localities including Temecula Creek in the Aguanga area and Wilson Creek in the Sage area. The Aguanga kangaroo rat typically is found in Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, but may occur in Riversidean sage scrub, chaparral and grassland in uplands and tributaries in proximity to Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitats. Conservation of Riversidean alluvial fan and upland sage scrub in Temecula and Wilson creeks is essential for Conservation of this species in the Plan Area. Monitoring and adaptive management to maintain and enhance Habitat in these areas also will be important for this species because of the small amount of remaining Habitat. The Aguanga kangaroo rat is a Group 3 species because of its narrow distribution in the Plan Area and the need for population monitoring and adaptive management. The Aguanga kangaroo rat is on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for the species will be conducted as part of the project review process for all public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume 1). Aguanga kangaroo rat localities found as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 5,484 acres (81 percent) of occupied or suitable Habitat within the historic floodplains of Temecula Creek and Wilson Creek, and their tributaries. Objective 4: s for Aguanga kangaroo rat will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume 1). Aguanga kangaroo rats located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. Within the 5,484 acres of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, ensure that at least 75 percent (4,113 acres) of the total is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 823 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (5 to 15 individuals per hectare; based on McKernan 1997 studies of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat) of the species as measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic floodplains of Temecula Creek and Wilson Creek, their tributaries, and other localities within the Criteria Area where the Aguanga kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Maintenance and/or restoration of ecological processes within the MSHCP Conservation Area may include: 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat; 2) careful planning and design of existing and future The MSHCP Conservation Area will include at least 5,484 acres (81 percent) of suitable Habitat. Most of this Habitat will be in the Wilson Creek and Temecula Creek drainages. Although the total acreage of suitable Habitat conserved is not large, it does comprise 81 percent of identified suitable Habitat in the Plan Area and includes the two known occupied areas. With implementation of the MSHCP, populations of the Aguanga kangaroo rat should remain viable in the Plan Area. Approximately 1,324 acres (19 percent) of suitable Habitat for the Aguanga kangaroo rat would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. No currently known populations of the Aguanga kangaroo rat would be subject to Incidental Take. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures). 8 Within the 5,484 acres of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will ensure that at least 75 percent of the total is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 823 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (5 to 15 individuals per hectare; based on McKernan 1997 studies of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat) of the species as measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic flood plains of Temecula Creek and Wilson Creek, their tributaries, and other localities within the Criteria Area where the Aguanga kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes which shall include 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial sage scrub Habitat, 2) careful planning and design of existing and future authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water Conservation, and sand and gravel mining, 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism, and 4) control of invasive exotic species. Management activities will also address grazing. FINAL MSHCP 9-94

95 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water Conservation, and sand and gravel mining; 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism; and 4) control of invasive exotic species. bobcat (Lynx rufus) 2 The bobcat is widespread throughout the Plan Area. This species requires large expanses of relatively undisturbed brushy and rocky Habitats near springs or other perennial water sources. In addition to needing large Habitat blocks, a key factor for Conservation of the bobcat in the Plan Area is the provision of adequate dispersal and movement Habitat, especially at potential bottleneck areas. Wildlife crossings of major roadways will need to be designed to accommodate bobcats. Use of key movement areas will need to be monitored to ensure that bobcats are safely using these areas. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 469,063 acres (57 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. Key Conservation areas comprising large contiguous Habitat blocks include the Santa Rosa Plateau-Santa Ana Mountains, Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains, Vail Lake-Wilson Valley-Aguanga, Anza-Cahuilla valleys, Badlands-San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, San Jacinto Mountains, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, and Santa Ana River-Prado Basin. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Habitat Linkages and movement corridors between large Core Areas that allow dispersal and movement of bobcats throughout the Plan Area and to areas outside of the Plan Area. Key Habitat connections and corridors include the following:! Santa Ana Mountains to Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River! Santa Ana Mountains to Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon! Santa Ana Mountains to Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or future wildlife overpass over Interstate15 north of Rainbow (possibly in San Diego County)! Along length of Santa Ana River between Rubidoux-North Riverside and Prado Basin! Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake to Sage-San Jacinto Mountains via Tucalota Creek and adjacent uplands in Reserve or Rural/ Mountainous designation areas Conservation for the bobcat will be achieved by inclusion of at least 469,000 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat. Although the current population of the bobcat in the Plan Area is unknown, it is assumed to be widespread in suitable Habitat. Currently its distribution in the Plan Area is likely more constrained by limited Habitat connections than from too little Habitat. Large connected Habitat blocks in the MSHCP Conservation Area will provide for movement areas that are adequate to support the life history needs of the bobcat, including foraging, reproduction, and dispersal activities. The main Habitat areas for bobcats in the MSHCP Conservation Area include the Santa Ana Mountains-Santa Rosa Plateau, the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains, the San Jacinto Mountains and foothills, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, the Badlands, Santa Ana River-Prado Basin, and the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. About 347,000 acres (43 percent) of suitable Habitat for the bobcat would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Lands outside the MSHCP Conservation Area tend to be in areas that currently are more fragmented by urban and agricultural development and thus less suitable for long-term Conservation of the bobcat. None 8 Reserve Managers will maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Reserve Managers will evaluate existing undercrossings in key areas for their adequacy and will improve as necessary to convey bobcats. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following: the crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River, the crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon, the crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible "Rainbow" overpass, and undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands. FINAL MSHCP 9-95

96 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES! Along Badlands to San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris and San Jacinto Mountains! Badlands to San Bernardino Mountains through Cherry Valley! San Jacinto Mountains to San Bernardino Mountains via Banning Canyon and San Gorgonio Wash Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Existing undercrossings in key areas will be evaluated for their adequacy and improved as necessary to convey bobcats. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following:! The crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River.! The crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon.! The crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible "Rainbow" overpass.! Undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands. brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani) 1 The brush rabbit occurs throughout the Plan Area in suitable Habitat, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub (Diegan coastal sage scrub, Riversidean sage scrub, and alluvial fan sage scrub), riparian and woodland Habitats, coniferous forest, and agricultural areas (grove/orchard, and field crops). They occur at all elevations up to 6,000 feet. Geographical areas with apparent concentrations of observations include Sage, Anza Valley, Santa Rosa Plateau, and the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains. The brush rabbit population size in the Plan Area is unknown. Although relatively little is known of this species in the Plan Area, with a large enough MSHCP Conservation Area, specific management regimes will not Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 382,115 acres (63 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. Conservation in the primary core Habitat areas includes the Existing Core A (10,740 acres), Existing Core B (71,490 acres contiguous with Cleveland National Forest in Orange County), Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core I (9,610 acres contiguous with San Bernardino National Forest in San Bernardino County), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Existing Core K (149,750 acres), Existing Core L (24,750 acres contiguous Conservation for the brush rabbit will be achieved by inclusion of approximately 382,000 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, large Habitat blocks throughout the Plan Area with interconnecting Linkages will be conserved, including the Santa Ana River-Prado Basin, Santa Rosa Plateau-Santa Ana Mountains, Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains and foothills, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Sage-Vail Approximately 223,195 acres (37 percent) of suitable Habitat for the brush rabbit will not be conserved. Suitable Habitat outside the MSHCP Conservation Area tends to be in areas that are more fragmented by urban and agricultural development and less suitable for the long-term Conservation of the brush rabbit. None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-96

97 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES be necessary. All that appears to be necessary for Conservation of the brush rabbit are large Habitat areas, adequate vegetative cover, and suitable dispersal and/or movement Linkages. with Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County), Existing Core M (10,460 acres contiguous with Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 6 (4,290 acres), and Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 44,000 acres of dispersal and/or movement Linkages between large blocks of conserved Habitat. Lake-Wilson Valley, and the Anza and Tule valleys. The Santa Ana River-Prado Basin and Santa Rosa Plateau-Santa Ana Mountains may be functionally isolated from the other Habitat areas by the Riverside Freeway (State Highway 91) and Interstate 15, but they are large enough Habitat areas (including portions in Orange and San Diego counties) to sustain viable populations. The other Habitat blocks are reasonably well connected and rabbits should be able to disperse throughout these areas. coyote (Canis latrans) 1 The coyote population is common and widespread throughout the Plan Area. It occurs in all areas of the Plan Area except the most highly urbanized areas. The coyote is also highly tolerant of human activities and coexists well with humans unless trapped, hunted or otherwise harassed (e.g., disturbance of breeding dens). The coyote is considered to be a Group 1 species because of its broad distribution and the ability to manage for this species on a landscape level. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 489,500 acres (50 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Habitat Linkages between large Habitat blocks. Key Habitat Linkages that likely will be used by coyotes to move between large Habitat blocks include:! Santa Ana River! Badlands/San Timoteo Creek! Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon crossings of I-15! Cole Canyon-Murrieta Creek! Warm Springs Creek! French Valley tributary to Warm Springs Creek! Generally continuous upland Habitat from Lake Mathews to Wildomar! Gavilan Hills! San Jacinto River! Temecula Creek-Santa Margarita River! Kolb Creek/Arroyo Seco! Tucalota Creek! Wilson Creek! Tule Creek! San Gorgonio Wash Conservation for the coyote will be achieved by inclusion of 489,500 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and Conservation of key Habitat Linkages. The Plan Area also is contiguous with coyote Habitat in eastern Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange and San Diego counties. Coyotes will be subject to Incidental Take on lands outside the MSHCP Conservation Area totaling approximately 495,000 acres (50 percent) of suitable Habitat. Of this unconserved Habitat, about 148,000 acres are existing agricultural land that may continue to provide some Habitat value in the future. Also, of the 495,000 acres authorized for Incidental Take, approximately 111,000 acres are in the Rural/ Mountainous designated areas. Although increased negative interactions between coyotes and humans are anticipated in the Rural/Mountainous areas (e.g.,vehicle collisions, disturbance of dens, and possibly animal control actions where coyotes become pests or are perceived as a danger to public health and safety), coyotes likely will still use these areas. None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-97

98 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Dulzura kangaroo rat (Dipodomys simulans) 1 The Dulzura kangaroo rat occurs throughout the Plan Area in coastal sage scrub (including Diegan and Riversidean upland sage scrubs and alluvial fan sage scrub), sage scrub/grassland ecotones, chaparral, and desert scrubs at all elevations up to 2,600 feet. This species is considered to be fairly common in suitable Habitat. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain an adequate amount of Habitat for this species, although management of Habitat for species such as the Stephens' kangaroo rat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, Los Angeles pocket mouse and California gnatcatcher may benefit the Dulzura kangaroo rat. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 198,200 acres (58 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. The majority of Conservation will occur in the following existing and proposed Core Areas: Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core I (9,610 acres), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Existing Core M (10,460 acres), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 (8,100 acres), Proposed Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 (3,220 acres), and Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres). The MSHCP Conservation Area will include at least 198,200 acres (58 percent) of suitable Habitat. With implementation of the MSHCP, populations of the Dulzura kangaroo rat should remain viable in the Plan Area. Approximately 146,632 acres (42 percent) of suitable Habitat for the Dulzura kangaroo rat would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 1. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area approximately 21,000 acres of dispersal and/or movement Linkages between Core Habitat blocks, including the following: Proposed Linkage 3 (5,540 acres), Proposed Linkage 8 (5,470 acres), Proposed Linkage 10 (1,520 acres), Proposed Linkage 11 (1,670 acres), Proposed Linkage 13 (1,920 acres), Proposed Linkage 14 (4,320 acres), and Proposed Linkages 17 and 18 (610 acres). long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata) 2 The long-tailed weasel occurs throughout the Plan Area in virtually all types of Habitat, including agricultural and disturbed areas. It may occur wherever there is sufficient prey. However, the weasel population levels in the Plan Area are unknown and additional study is needed to identify possible Core Areas and basic life history requirements of the species. Baseline study and monitoring of weasels in the MSHCP Conservation Area, therefore, will be key factors for Conservation of this species. least 474,500 acres (49 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. Conservation in the primary Core Habitat Areas includes the Existing Core A (10,740 acres), Existing Core B (71,490 acres contiguous with Cleveland National Forest in Orange County), Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core I (9,610 acres contiguous with San Bernardino National Forest in San Bernardino County), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Existing Core K (149,750 acres), Existing Core L (24,750 acres contiguous with Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County), Existing Core M (10,460 acres contiguous with Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 achieved by inclusion of at least 474,500 acres (49 percent) of the suitable Conserved Habitat and Conservation of Linkages between large Habitat Areas. Approximately 490,675 acres (51 percent) of suitable Habitat for the long-tailed weasel will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of long-tailed weasel at a minimum of 75 percent of the localities in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur. FINAL MSHCP 9-98

99 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 6 (4,290 acres), and Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres). Include within MSHCP Conservation Area approximately 52,400 acres of dispersal and/or movement Linkages between Core Habitat blocks. Given the mobility of the long-tailed weasel and its use of drainages and agricultural areas, it potentially could use all the identified unconstrained and constrained Linkages in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of long-tailed weasel at a minimum of 75 percent of the localities where the species has been known to occur. Los Angeles pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris brevinasus) 3 The Los Angeles pocket mouse generally is widely distributed in the eastern two-thirds of the Plan Area, but recent known localities are sparsely scattered throughout this area. This species appears to be limited to sparsely vegetated Habitat areas in patches of fine sandy soils associated with washes or of aeolian (windblown ) origin, such as dunes. The current status of populations in the Plan Area is unknown, but some biologists believe that the Los Angeles pocket mouse is in serious decline in the region because it is seldom trapped and much of its suitable Habitat has been lost to agriculture and urban development. Conservation of sage scrub and grassland Habitats on sandy soils, population monitoring and adaptive management will be important for this species. The Los Angeles pocket mouse is considered a Group 3 species because of its scattered distribution in the Plan Area, association with specific micro-habitats, a lack of information about existing populations, and the need for population monitoring and adaptive management. The Los Angeles pocket mouse is on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for the species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Los Angeles Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area, at least 14,000 acres of suitable Habitat for the Los Angeles pocket mouse (e.g., sandy to loamy-sand soils occurring in non-native grassland, Riversidean sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, desert scrub, playa and vernal pool, chaparral, or redshank chaparral Habitat), with at least 2,000 acres within each of seven (7) Core Areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Based on existing population distribution information, probable Core Areas include the following: 1) San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris Reserve, 2) the Badlands, 3) San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek, 4) Anza Valley, 5) Lake Skinner-Domenigoni Reserve, 6) Potrero Valley, and 7) Temecula Creek. least 10,000 acres of suitable Habitat for the Los Angeles pocket mouse outside of the probable Core Areas identified above, but within the Criteria Area. Criteria Area locations where additional Habitat likely will be conserved include the Santa Ana River (northeast of Highway 60 and possibly in some areas downstream), Wilson Creek, Vail Lake, Warm Springs Creek, San Timoteo Creek, and San Gorgonio Wash. Conservation of the Los Angeles pocket mouse will be achieved by inclusion of approximately 32,581 acres (62 percent) of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Although the size and extent of existing populations of the Los Angeles pocket mouse in the Plan Area is unknown, based on distribution records, the probable key population areas are reasonably well understood. Several of these key areas would be in the MSHCP Conservation Area, including San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Potrero Valley, and Silverado Ranch Conservation Bank in the Anza Valley. Additional important known Habitat areas that would be conserved include the San Jacinto River in the Hemet-Valle Vista area and San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Bautista Creek, Temecula Creek between Aguanga and Vail Lake, portions of the Badlands, and Reche Canyon. With perhaps the exception of populations in the Temecula-Murrieta area, it seems unlikely that additional key populations would not be conserved. Most of the areas outside The Incidental Take of the Los Angeles pocket mouse is difficult to quantify for the following reasons: 1) their use of burrows for diurnal resting sites; 2) finding a dead or impaired specimen is unlikely; 3) losses may be masked by seasonal or annual fluctuations in numbers; and 4) limited knowledge of its distribution within the Plan Area. However, the maximum level of Take of the Los Angeles pocket mouse could be anticipated by the loss of the number of acres of Habitat that will become unsuitable for this species. Approximately 19,508 acres (37 percent) of suitable Habitat is outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures). 1 to 8 Reserve Managers will ensure that each of the 7 Core Areas shall support a stable or increasing population that occupies at least 30 percent of the suitable Habitat (at least 4,200 acres) as measured over any 8-consecutive year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Particular management emphasis will be given to flood control, farming, mining, and invasive non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-99

100 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES pocket mouse localities found as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. s for Los Angeles pocket mouse will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Los Angeles pocket mice located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. of the MSHCP Conservation Area that potentially support pocket mouse populations or suitable Habitat tend to be already fragmented and would have poor suitability for long-term Conservation. and site-specific Conservation efforts will continue until there is a minimum of seven Core Areas with at least 2,000 acres of suitable Habitat within each core area, for a total of 14,000 acres of suitable Habitat. Objective 4: Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall demonstrate that each of the seven Core Areas supports a stable or increasing population that occupies at least 30 percent of the suitable Habitat (at least 4,200 acres) as measured over any 8-consecutive year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). mountain lion (Puma concolor) 2 The mountain lion is known from the Santa Ana Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, Santa Rosa Mountains and brushy foothills and riparian areas that may serve as Habitat connections between core mountainous areas. The mountain lion also has been seen in the 1990s in "lowland" areas such as Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, the Badlands and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area. Maintaining this species throughout the Plan Area will require Conservation of specific core and Linkage Habitats and implementation of specific monitoring and management actions. This species requires large expanses of relatively undisturbed brushy and rocky Habitats where its main prey--the mule deer--also occurs. In addition to needing large Habitat blocks, a key factor for Conservation of the mountain lion in the Plan Area is the provision of adequate dispersal and movement Habitat, especially at potential bottleneck areas. Wildlife crossings of major roadways will need to be designed to Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 319,843 acres (71 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. The majority of Habitat Conservation will occur in large blocks throughout the Plan Area, including the Santa Rosa Plateau-Santa Ana Mountains (79,850 acres), Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains (35,210 acres), Badlands-San Jacinto Mountains-Santa Rosa Mountains (174,670 acres), and San Bernardino Mountains (9,610 acres). Additional areas likely to be used by the mountain lion include Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain (31,200 acres), Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake (27,600 acres), and Vail Lake-Sage-Wilson Valley (61,900 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area Habitat Linkages and movement corridors between large Habitat blocks that allow dispersal and movement of mountain lions throughout the Plan Area and to Conservation for the mountain lion will be achieved by inclusion of at least 320,000 acres (71 percent) of the suitable Conserved Habitat and Conservation of Linkages between large Habitat areas. Implementation of the MSHCP would provide large Habitat blocks and ensure that movement areas are adequate to support the life history needs of the mountain lion, including foraging, reproduction, and dispersal activities. The main Habitat areas for mountain lions in the MSHCP Conservation Area include the Santa Rosa Plateau-Santa Ana Mountains, Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains, Badlands-San Jacinto Mountains-Santa Rosa Mountains, and San Bernardino Mountains. Additional MSHCP Conservation Areas likely to be About 132,000 acres (29 percent) of suitable Habitat would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. Of this, approximately 52,000 acres (11 percent) are in Rural/ Mountainous designation areas. The Habitat outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area tends to be in areas that currently are more fragmented by urban and agricultural development, and thus, less suitable for Conservation of the mountain lion. None 8 Reserve Managers will maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Reserve Managers will evaluate existing undercrossings in key areas for their adequacy and will improve as necessary to convey mountain lions. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following: the crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River, the crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon, the crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible "Rainbow" overpass, and undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands. FINAL MSHCP 9-100

101 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES accommodate mountain lions. areas outside of the Plan Area. Conserved Habitat connections and corridors will include the following:! Santa Ana Mountains to Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River! Santa Ana Mountains to Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon! Santa Ana Mountains to Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or future wildlife overpass over I-15 north of Rainbow (possibly in San Diego County)! Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake to Sage-Wilson Valley-San Jacinto Mountains via Tucalota Creek and adjacent uplands in the MSHCP Conservation Area! Badlands to San Jacinto Mountains and Santa Rosa Mountains! San Jacinto Mountains to San Bernardino Mountains via San Gorgonio Wash used by the mountain lion include Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, and Vail Lake-Sage-Wilson Valley. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Existing undercrossings in key areas will be evaluated for their adequacy to convey mountain lions. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following:! The crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River.! The crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon.! The crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible "Rainbow" overpass.! Undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands. FINAL MSHCP 9-101

102 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES northwestern San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax fallax) 1 The northwestern San Diego pocket mouse occurs throughout the Plan Area in coastal sage scrub (including Diegan and Riversidean upland sage scrubs and alluvial fan sage scrub), sage scrub/grassland ecotones, chaparral, and desert scrubs at all elevations up to 6,000 feet. This species is considered to be fairly common in suitable Habitat. No specific management regimes are needed to maintain an adequate amount of Habitat for this species, although management of Habitat for species such as the Stephens' kangaroo rat, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, Los Angeles pocket mouse and California gnatcatcher may benefit the northwestern San Diego pocket mouse. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 407,645 acres (56 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area. Conservation in the primary Core Habitat areas includes Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core I (9,610 acres), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Existing Core M (10,460 acres), Proposed Extended Existing Core 2 (8,100 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 6 (1,180 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 7 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 (3,220 acres), and Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres). The MSHCP Conservation Area will include at least 407,645 acres (56 percent) of suitable Habitat. Much of this Habitat will be in large Core Areas and Habitat Linkages that are suitable for occupation by the San Diego pocket mouse in four major Habitat complexes: the Santa Ana Mountain Foothills - Santa Rosa Plateau complex, the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain - Steele Peak - Kabian Park-Sedco Hills complex, the Badlands-San Jacinto Mountain Foothills-Agua Tibia Wilderness complex, and the Banning Bench complex. Populations of the pocket mouse should remain viable in these four areas. Approximately 323,457 acres (44 percent) of suitable Habitat for the northwestern San Diego pocket mouse would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 1. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area approximately 18,000 acres of suitable dispersal and/or movement Linkages between Habitat blocks, including contiguous uplands from Estelle Mountain to Wildomar, Gavilan Hills, San Jacinto River, Kolb Creek/Arroyo Seco, Temecula Creek, Tucalota Creek, Wilson Creek, Tule Creek, and San Gorgonio Wash. San Bernardino flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus californicus) 3 Habitat for the San Bernardino flying squirrel in the Plan Area only occurs in the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily on U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands in the San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF) and the Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness State Park. Suitable Habitat also is present on private inholdings within the SBNF in the San Jacinto Mountains. The status (e.g., abundance, distribution, reproduction) of this species is not well understood within the Plan Area. Therefore, Habitat assessments, population baseline information, long-term monitoring studies, and adaptive management are necessary. The San Bernardino flying squirrel is a Group 3 species because it has a narrow distribution in the Plan Area and requires site specific monitoring. least 19,476 acres (67 percent) of suitable montane coniferous forest and deciduous woodland and forest Habitats within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion for breeding, foraging, wintering, and dispersal movement. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm occupation of 1000 ha (2470 acres) with a mean density of at least 2 individuals per hectare (2 individuals per 2.47 acres) in the San Jacinto mountains; and in the San Bernardino Mountains confirm occupation of 100 ha. Conservation of the San Bernardino flying squirrel will be achieved by inclusion of approximately 19,476 acres (67 percent) of suitable Conserved Habitat in the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion of the MSHCP Conservation Area. About 9,404 acres (33 percent) of suitable Habitat in the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion is on private ownerships outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. This suitable Habitat is on private lands in the areas of Pine Cove, Idyllwild, Mountain Center, Hemet Lake and various other private inholdings within the forest. Any proposed Incidental Take of Habitat on USFS or State Park lands would be consistent with approved activities for those lands. None 8 Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm occupation of 1,000 ha (2,470 acres) with a mean density of at least 2 individuals per hectare (2 individuals per 2.47 acres) in the San Jacinto Mountains; and in the San Bernardino Mountains confirm occupation of 100 ha. FINAL MSHCP 9-102

103 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Conservation of the San Bernardino flying squirrel in the San Jacinto Mountains is largely dependent on activities on Forest Service lands, but activities in the State Park and private ownerships within the SBNF also will be important to Conservation of the species. As a Forest Service Sensitive Species, the flying squirrel is protected through implementation of Forest plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which assesses the potential effects of Forest Service activities on the species. Due to absence of information regarding abundance, distance and life history requirements, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by achieving Objective 2. San Bernardino kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami parvus ) 3 The San Bernardino kangaroo rat has a narrow distribution within the Plan Area, being primarily restricted to 1) the San Jacinto River from about Highway 79 (Lamb Canyon Road/Sanderson Avenue) in the north to the boundary with Forest Service land to the east, and 2) Bautista Creek from about Bautista Dam to the north and the Hixon Flat trailhead to the south. The precise status of smaller remnant populations in Reche Canyon and the northern portion of the Jurupa Mountains in the Bloomington area is unknown, but the persistence of remaining occurrences in these areas is likely tenuous given the rate of ongoing Habitat destruction and fragmentation. The San Bernardino kangaroo rat typically is found in Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, but may occur at lower densities in Riversidean upland sage scrub, chaparral and grassland in uplands and tributaries in proximity to Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitats. Conservation of Riversidean alluvial fan and upland sage scrub in the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek is essential for Conservation of this species in the Plan Area. Monitoring and adaptive management to maintain and enhance Habitat in these areas also will be important for this species because of the small amount of Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 4,440 acres of occupied or suitable Habitat within the historic flood plains of the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek and their tributaries. s for San Bernardino kangaroo rat will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Bernardino kangaroo rats located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. Within the 4,440 acres of suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, ensure that at least 75 percent of the total (3,330 acres) is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 666 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (> 5 to 15 individuals per hectare; McKernan 1997) of the species as Conservation of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat will be achieved by inclusion of approximately 3,748 acres (68 percent) of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Virtually 100 percent of the known and high potential San Bernardino kangaroo rat occupied Habitat in the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek is within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Incidental Take of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat is difficult to quantify for the following reasons: 1) their use of burrows for diurnal resting sites; 2) finding a dead or impaired specimen is unlikely; and 3) losses may be masked by seasonal or annual fluctuations in numbers. For these reasons, the level of Take of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat is typically estimated as the amount of permanent and/or temporary disturbance to its Habitat. Based on existing information, no known and relatively little high potential San Bernardino kangaroo rat Habitat is outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, approximately 1,785 acres (32 percent) of suitable Habitat is outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. This suitable Habitat, which may be subject to Incidental Take, is in areas where the status of the species is unknown. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Within the 4,440 acres of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will ensure that at least 75 percent of the total (3,330 acres) is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 666 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (>5 to 15 individuals per hectare; based on McKernan 1997 studies of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat) of the species as measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic flood plains of the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek, their tributaries, and other localities within the Criteria Area where the San Bernardino kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Maintenance or, if feasible, restoration of ecological processes shall include 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial sage scrub Habitat, 2) careful planning and design of existing and future authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water Conservation, and sand and gravel mining, 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism, and 4) control FINAL MSHCP 9-103

104 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES remaining Habitat. The San Bernardino kangaroo rat is a Group 3 species because of its narrow distribution in the Plan Area and the need for population monitoring and adaptive management. The San Bernardino kangaroo rat is on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for the species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the mammal species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Mammal Species Area Map, Figure 6-5 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Bernardino kangaroo rat localities found as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with the procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. Objective 4: measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers shall maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic flood plains of the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek, their tributaries, and other locations within the Criteria Area where the San Bernardino kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Maintenance and/or restoration of ecological processes may include: 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat, 2) careful planning and design of existing and future authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water Conservation, and sand and gravel mining, 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism, and 4) control of invasive exotic species. s will be conducted in these areas in accordance with the procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. of invasive exotic species and domestic animals. San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii) 1 The San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit occurs throughout the Plan Area in open Habitats, primarily including grasslands, Riversidean sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, Great Basin sagebrush, desert scrub, and juniper and oak woodlands. Although widespread in the Plan Area, the jackrabbit can be characterized as ranging from relatively uncommon to locally common. Identifying Core Areas is difficult because this species exhibits natural fluctuations in population sizes and distributions in relation to reproduction and shifting distributions and densities of food resources. With a large enough MSHCP Conservation Area however, specific management regimes will not be necessary for this species because it occurs in a variety of Habitats ranging from undisturbed to highly disturbed. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 142,116 acres (44 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area comprised of grassland, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, desert scrub, juniper woodland and scrub, and playas and vernal pools. Conservation in the primary Core Habitat Areas includes Existing Core A (10,740 acres), Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core D (2,510 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 (8,100 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 6 (1,180 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 7 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Conservation of the San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit will be achieved by inclusion of approximately 142,116 acres (44 percent) of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The MSCHP Conservation Area includes large Habitat areas and adequate Habitat Linkages that will allow for the natural fluctuations in population densities and distribution of the jackrabbit, including the Santa Rosa Plateau, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Vail Lake-Sage-Wilson Valley, the Badlands-San Jacinto River, Lakeview Mountains, Sedco Hills-Kabian Park, and Anza-Cahuilla valleys. Approximately 183,412 acres (56 percent) of suitable Habitat for the jackrabbit would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-104

105 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 6 (4,290 acres), Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres), Non-contiguous Habitat Block 2 (1,230 acres), and Non-contiguous Habitat Block 5 (7,150 acres). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area approximately 27,700 acres of Habitat Linkages between Core Areas, including contiguous uplands from Estelle Mountain to Wildomar, Temescal Wash, Gavilan Hills, San Jacinto River from the National Forest to Canyon Lake, Santa Ana River, Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Tucalota Creek, Wilson Creek, Tule Creek, San Timoteo Creek, and San Gorgonio Wash. San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia) 1 The San Diego desert woodrat is found throughout the Plan Area in sage scrub and chaparral wherever there are rock outcrops, boulders, cactus patches and dense undergrowth. The largest contiguous populations probably are in Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Kabian area, the Badlands, San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Vail Lake-Sage, and on the Santa Rosa Plateau. As long as adequate microhabitats are conserved, this species will remain viable in the Plan Area. No specific management regimes are anticipated for maintaining an adequate amount of Habitat for this species. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 364,828 acres (62 percent) of suitable Habitat in the Plan Area comprised of chaparral, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, desert scrub, and juniper woodland and scrub. Conservation in the primary Core Habitat Areas includes Existing Core C (15,610 acres), Existing Core G (4,490 acres), Existing Core H (17,470 acres), Existing Core F (8,360 acres), Existing Core J (24,370 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 (8,100 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 6 (1,180 acres), Proposed Extension of Existing Core 7 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 1 (7,470 acres), Proposed Core 2 (5,050 acres), Proposed Core 3 (24,920 acres), Proposed Core 4 (11,890 acres), Proposed Core 5 (3,220 acres), Proposed Core 6 (4,290 acres), Proposed Core 7 (50,000 acres), and Non-contiguous Habitat Block 5 (7,150 acres). Conservation for the San Diego desert woodrat will be achieved by inclusion of at least 364,828 acres (62 percent) of suitable Conserved Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Included in the MSHCP Conservation Area are large Habitat blocks and Linkages that are suitable for occupation by the San Diego desert woodrat in the four major Habitat complexes : the Santa Ana Mountain Foothills-Santa Rosa Plateau complex, the Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain-Steele Peak-Kabian Park-Sedco Hills complex, the Badlands-San Jacinto Mountain Foothills-Agua Tibia Wilderness complex, and the Banning Bench complex (see summary of Core Areas in Objective 1). Populations of the desert woodrat should remain viable in these four areas. Approximately 218,955 acres (38 percent) of suitable Habitat for the desert woodrat would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 1. Stephens kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi) 2 The Stephens' kangaroo rat is relatively widespread throughout the Plan Area, but the main blocks of occupied Habitat are concentrated in several Core Areas that must be conserved. The Stephens' kangaroo rat also requires Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area a minimum of 15,000 acres of occupied Habitat (as defined in the Habitat Conservation Plan for the Stephens' Kangaroo Rat in Western Riverside The total estimated Conservation of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area is approximately 22,400 acres. Approval Within the existing Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP area it was estimated that approximately 15,000 acres of the estimated 30,000 acres would be None 1 to 8 Within the minimum 15,000 acres of occupied Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain at least 30 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 4,500 acres) at a population density of medium or higher (i.e., at least 5-10 individuals per FINAL MSHCP 9-105

106 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES species-specific monitoring and management to ensure its long-term viability in the Plan Area, including tracking population densities and maintaining sparse, open grassland Habitats. The Long term SKR HCP provides Take Authorization for SKR within its boundaries. The MSHCP will provide Take Authorization for SKR outside the boundaries of the SKR HCP, but within the Plan Area boundaries. As set forth in Section 16.2 of the Implementing Agreement (Section 5.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I), the core reserves established by the SKR HCP will be managed as part of the MSHCP Conservation Area consistent with the SKR HCP. County, March 1996), as measured across any consecutive 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle), in a minimum of six Core Areas within the existing boundary of the Habitat Conservation Plan for the Stephens' Kangaroo Rat in Western Riverside County. This objective is consistent with the requirements of the Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP. Core Areas, as identified in the HCP, include Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Motte-Rimrock Reserve, Lake Skinner-Domenigoni Valley, San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, Sycamore Canyon-March Air Force (Reserve) Base, Steele Peak, and Potrero ACEC. least 3,000 acres of occupied Habitat, as measured across any consecutive 8-year period, in a minimum of two Core Areas outside the existing boundary of the Habitat Conservation Plan for the Stephens' Kangaroo Rat in Western Riverside County. One of the Core Areas will be the Potrero Valley area (as distinct from the Potrero ACEC Core Areas listed in Objective 1) and the other will be in the Anza and Cahuilla valleys. Within the minimum 15,000 acres of occupied Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain at least 30 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 4,500 acres) at a population density of medium or higher (i.e., at least 5-10 individuals per hectare; O'Farrell and Uptain 1989) across all Core Areas. No single Core Area will account for more than 30 percent of the total medium (or higher) population density area. and implementation of the Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP in 1996 was based on the determination that the HCP would conserve the kangaroo rat within the Western Riverside County area covered by the Plan. Expansion of the MSHCP Conservation Area under the MSHCP would increase the amount of Conserved Habitat by at least 3,200 acres in the two new Core Areas and by several thousand acres in smaller scattered patches throughout the MSHCP Conservation Area. taken over the 30-year life of the permit (RCHCA 1996). However, this assumption was conservative relative to the MSHCP because it did not take into consideration several factors, including: inherent protection of occupied Habitat on other public lands outside of Core Areas, on undevelopable lands, and lands occupied by other listed species; occupied Habitat on lands used for dryland farming that are likely to remain in the HCP area; and additional Conservation through the multispecies planning effort. Within the broader scope of the MSHCP, compared to the Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP area, estimating Take of occupied Stephens' kangaroo rat Habitat outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area is difficult because current mapping of occupied Habitat generally is not available. Based on existing data for known occupied and potential/probable Habitat, approximately 12,940 acres are outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area and individuals within these areas will be subject to Incidental Take consistent with the Plan. However, it is highly unlikely that any given project would impact more than a few 10s to a few hundred acres at a time. In the recent past, one of the largest Takes of occupied Habitat outside the existing Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP Plan Area was about 135 acres of occupied Habitat in the Norco Hills, hectare; O'Farrell and Uptain 1989) across all Core Areas. No single Core Area will account for more than 30 percent of the total medium (or higher) population density area. FINAL MSHCP 9-106

107 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES but this area comprised much of what remained in the vicinity that probably supported 1,000+ acres as recently as Small projects in some of the non-core Areas listed above may result in smaller impacts that may cumulatively total several hundred to a few thousand acres in the foreseeable future. Other areas outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area and Rural/ Mountainous areas where some Take is likely to occur in the future include east Riverside (e.g., Alessandro Hills), Moreno Valley, Woodcrest, Mead Valley, Perris, Sun City, Norco Hills, Wildomar, Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, Hemet, San Jacinto, and Banning/ Beaumont. Under the Rural/Mountainous designation, areas where previously the risk to occupied Habitat potentially would have been high, the amount of Take also will be substantially lower. PLANTS beautiful hulsea (Hulsea vestita ssp. callicarpha) 2 Beautiful hulsea is designated as a Group 2 species because of its restriction to the Agua Tibia and San Jacinto Mountains and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, beautiful hulsea is restricted to chaparral and lower montane coniferous forests at elevations of 915 m to 3,050 m within the Agua Tibia and San Jacinto Mountains and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions. This perennial plant grows on granitic soils, rock or gravelly soils in chaparral and in open areas of montane conifer forest. least 106,440 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and montane coniferous forest between 915 and 3,050 m in the Agua Tibia and San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills Bioregions). least 12 of the known occurrences at Lake Fulmor, Pine Cove, Idyllwild, Mountain Center, Pine Meadow and Lake Hemet. achieved by inclusion of at least 106,440 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 25 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 36,060 acres (25 percent) of potential Habitat for beautiful hulsea will not be conserved. According to the UCR database and herbarium records, 19 of the mapped locations are located on private lands and will not be conserved. Of these 19 mapped locations, however, 18 are dated 1970 or earlier. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to existing and new locations of beautiful hulsea populations to the maximum extent practicable. The University of California, Riverside, (UCR) GIS database and the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens, Pomona and UCR herbaria include 44 records at 32 locations, 25 of which are located on Forest Service lands. However, 34 of the 44 records are dated 1970 or earlier. Based on these records, beautiful hulsea occurs Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 16 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with no fewer than 50 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). FINAL MSHCP 9-107

108 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES in the vicinity of Lake Fulmor, Pine Cove, Idyllwild, Mountain Center, Pine Meadow and Hemet Lake in the San Jacinto Mountains; and on Cahuilla Mountain. Reiser (1996) reports this species from North Mountain, east of Hemet, along the summit fire road. CNDDB does not contain any occurrence data for this species. The beautiful hulsea is restricted to the western slopes of the San Jacinto Mountains and the northern slopes of the Agua Tibia Mountains and the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. However, because the majority of the existing records are dated prior to 1970, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. Brand s phacelia (Phacelia stellaris) 3 Brand's phacelia is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements, and management requirements for flood plain processes. There are only two known occurrences within the Plan Area. This species was collected at Fairmont Park in 1925 and was recently observed in the Santa Ana Wilderness Area. This species appears to be restricted to sandy benches along the Santa Ana River. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Brand's phacelia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Brand's phacelia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. least 6,100 acres of suitable Habitat (meadows/ marshes and playa/vernal pools between 0 and 500 m within the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion). least the two known localities (one historic and one extant) of this species along the Santa Ana River at Fairmont Park and in the Santa Ana Wilderness Area. s for Brand's phacelia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Brand's phacelia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,100 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two known occurrences along the Santa Ana River (one historic occurrence at Fairmont Park and one extant occurrence along a horse trail in the Santa Ana Wilderness Area along the Santa Ana River) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 11,800 acres of potential Habitat for Brand's phacelia would not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Neither the historic location nor the one extant location would be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species). 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species for off-road vehicle use and trampling. FINAL MSHCP 9-108

109 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES California beardtongue (Penstemon californicus) 2 California beardtongue is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the Desert Transition, San Jacinto Foothills, San Jacinto Mountains, and Santa Ana Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, California beardtongue is restricted to chaparral, coniferous forest, and pinyon-juniper woodland Habitats at elevations of 1,000 m to 2,100 m within the Desert Transition, San Jacinto Foothills, San Jacinto Mountains, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. Specifically, the plant occurs on rocky or clay soils, in openings within chaparral adjacent to meadow Habitat, openings within chaparral on ridgetops and in the ecotone between chaparral and lower montane coniferous forest. The University of California, Riverside (UCR), GIS database has seven occurrences for this species, the UCR herbarium has two records for this species and the California Natural Diversity Database (CNNDB) has nine mapped occurrences within the San Jacinto Mountains, including Garner Valley, Pyramid Peak, Kenworthy Ranger Station and Blackburn Canyon; and two outlier locations: Cactus Valley and north of Sage. least 118,110 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and montane coniferous forest between 1,000 and 2,100 m within the Desert Transition, San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and Santa Ana Mountain Bioregions). least 15 occurrences in Aguanga, Blackburn Canyon and the San Jacinto Mountains (including Garner Valley, Pyramid Peak, and Kenworthy Ranger Station). achieved by inclusion of at least 118,110 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 15 known localities in the San Jacinto Mountains within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 52,100 acres (31 percent) of potential Habitat for California beardtongue will not be conserved. According to the UCR herbarium and UCR database, three of the mapped locations, including one locality in the San Jacinto Mountains and the two outliers in Cactus Valley and north of Sage will not be conserved. According to the CNDDB, one of the mapped locations is within a private in-holding in the San Jacinto Mountains approximately two miles north of the intersection of Highway 74 and Highway 371 and will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to California beardtongue to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage grazing activities in proximity to known and future occurrences. California beardtongue is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Plants are protected through the implementation of Forest plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. California bedstraw (Galium californicum ssp. primum) 2 California bedstraw is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands and because it has specific Habitat requirements. Within the Plan Area, California bedstraw is restricted to the ecotone of chaparral and lower montane coniferous forest and in the lower edge of the pine belt at elevations of 1,350 m to 1,700 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion on USFS lands. least 41,420 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and montane coniferous forest between 1,350 and 1,700 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). least four of the known occurrences of this species achieved by inclusion of at least 41,420 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and four known localities in the San Jacinto Mountains between Pine Cove and Idyllwild within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 9,180 acres (18 percent) of potential Habitat for California bedstraw will not be conserved and will be subject to impacts consistent with the Plan. Within the UCR database, two of the mapped locations are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to California bedstraw populations to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species for genetic swamping by Galium nuttallii. FINAL MSHCP 9-109

110 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES California bedstraw is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Plant. Forest Service Sensitive Plants are protected through the implementation of Forest plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. in the vicinity of Alvin Meadows between Pine Cove and Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains. within San Timoteo Canyon west of Beaumont and within the vicinity of the Diamond Valley Lake. According to the CNDDB, one of the mapped location within the San Jacinto Mountains is located within a private in-holding and will not be conserved. California black walnut (Juglans californica var. californica) 2 California black walnut is designated as a Group 2 species because of its specialized Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area. California black walnut is restricted to woodlands and forests below 900 m. Scattered individual trees exist on the Santa Rosa Plateau and east of Pedley along Cimonite Avenue and west of Rubidoux, immediately north of the Highway 60. These are introduced occurrences (Steve Boyd, pers. comm.). Other records include occurrences in the Santa Ana Mountains (south of Corona and west of El Cerrito), at Lake Skinner and near Steele Peak. Seven of the known occurrences will be conserved in the Santa Ana Mountains, at Lake Skinner and in the vicinity of Pedley. least 6,100 acres of suitable Habitat (riparian scrub forests and woodland/forest and (non-riparian) woodlands below 900 m within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion). least seven known occurrences of this species within the Santa Ana Mountains, at Lake Skinner, at the Santa Rosa Plateau and one east of Pedley. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,100 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and seven known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 3,830 acres (39 percent) of potential Habitat for California black walnut will be outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of this, approximately 3,260 acres (33 percent of total potential Habitat) will be within Rural Mountainous designation areas. Although these areas will not be part of the managed MSHCP Conservation Area, the levels of development anticipated in these areas may be consistent with maintaining California black walnut in these areas. Seven of the known occurrences (near Steele Mountain and scattered occurrences near Pedley) will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to California black walnut to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for grazing activities. California muhly (Muhlenbergia californica) 2 California muhly is designated as a Group 2 species because of its wide distribution within specific Habitat associations. The species is known from Sage, Aguanga, Estelle Mountain, Gavilan Hills, Gavilan Plateau, Prado Dam, La Paz Canyon, Temescal Canyon, and Sitton Peak. The CNDDB does not contain any mapped locations for this species in the Plan Area but does contain several written records. The UCR database does not include any occurrences in the Plan Area but does contain one mapped locality to the east of the Plan Area. The distribution of California muhly is patchy and poorly understood and the existing records are not believed to be least 368,200 acres of suitable Habitat (coastal sage scrub, chaparral, meadow/marsh and montane coniferous forest between 100 and 2,000 m within all Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known locations at Sage, Aguanga, Estelle Mountain, Prado Dam, Temescal Canyon, and Sitton Peak. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) containing at least 50 clumps achieved by inclusion of at least 368,200 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and ten known localities within large blocks of Habitat (at Sage, Aguanga, Estelle Mountain, Gavilan Hills, Gavilan Plateau, near Prado Dam, Temescal Canyon, and the Santa Ana Mountains) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 221,350 acres of potential Habitat will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. This species occurs at Sage, Aguanga, Estelle Mountain, Gavilan Hills, Gavilan Plateau, near Prado Dam, La Paz Canyon, Temescal Canyon, and Sitton Peak in the Santa Ana Mountains (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Unpublished Data). Some or all of the occurrences at these localities may be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measures 1 and 4. FINAL MSHCP 9-110

111 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES indicative of the distribution of this species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). California Orcutt grass (Orcuttia californica) 3 California Orcutt grass is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the southern basaltic claypan vernal pools at the Santa Rosa Plateau, and alkaline vernal pools at Skunk Hollow and at Salt Creek west of Hemet. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for California Orcutt grass will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). California Orcutt grass located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. least 6,680 acres of suitable Habitat (playas and vernal pools within the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least three of the known locations of California Orcutt grass at the Santa Rosa Plateau, at Skunk Hollow and in the upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet. s for the California Orcutt grass will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1, of the MSHCP, Volume I). California Orcutt grass located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,680 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three localities (Santa Rosa Plateau, upper Salt Creek west of Hemet and Skunk Hollow) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objective 4 for this species will maintain hydrologic processes upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,130 acres (14 percent) of potential Habitat (playas and vernal pools) for California Orcutt grass will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is important to note that 940 acres (12 percent) of the potential Habitat occurring outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area is located within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area. The unverified occurrence of this species west of the Santa Rosa Plateau may or may not be conserved. Yes, see Section (Protection o f Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain and hydrologic processes of Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet, Skunk Hollow, and the Santa Rosa Plateau including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, weed abatement/fire and fire suppression practices, grazing, off-road vehicle use and competition from alien plant species. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the watershed of the vernal pool complex on the Santa Rosa Plateau and the vernal pool occurrences at Skunk Hollow and Upper Salt Creek in order to maintain hydrologic conditions. chickweed oxytheca (Oxytheca caryophylloides) 2 Chickweed oxytheca is designated as a Group 2 species. It is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area chickweed oxytheca is restricted to montane coniferous forest (yellow pine forest) on sandy soils at elevations between 1,200 m and 2,600 m. The University of California, Riverside, (UCR) GIS database and the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens, Pomona and UCR herbaria include eight occurrences in the San Jacinto Mountains dating back to The most recent occurrence is dated least 18,660 acres of suitable Habitat (montane coniferous forest between 1,200 and 2,600 m within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills Bioregion). least five of the known locations within the San Jacinto Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 18,660 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and four known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 9,200 acres (33 percent) of potential Habitat for chickweed oxytheca will not be conserved. According to the UCR database and herbarium records, four of the mapped locations are located on private lands or within road right-ofway and will not be conserved. Of these four mapped locations, however, three are dated 1924 and the None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to this species to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species in areas where timber logging and recreation occur. FINAL MSHCP 9-111

112 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES The MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. However, due to the age of the records, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) managed with 1,000 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). third dates from Cleveland s bush monkeyflower (Mimulus clevelandii) 2 Cleveland s bush monkeyflower is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the Santa Ana and Agua Tibia mountains, primarily within USFS Lands. Within the Plan Area, Cleveland s bush monkeyflower is restricted to chaparral and lower montane coniferous forests at elevations above 914 meters within the Santa Ana and Agua Tibia Mountains. This species has one population (consisting of several occurrences) on Santiago Peak in the Santa Ana Mountains and is present at several localities within the Agua Tibia Mountains. Most of the known occurrences are within the Cleveland National Forest. Overall, approximately 10,870 acres (93%) of potential Habitat in the Plan Area are within existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands. least 10,870 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, montane coniferous forest and woodland/forest above 914 m within the Santa Ana Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountain Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the two known localities of this species on Santiago Peak in the Santa Ana Mountains and on the northern slopes of the Agua Tibia Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 10,870 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two core localities (Santa Ana Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountains) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 790 acres of potential Habitat for Cleveland's bush monkeyflower will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. One of the records (in the foothills of the Agua Tibia Mountains) will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Cleveland bush monkey flower populations to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species in ridgeline and mountaintop areas where trails, roads and transmitting equipment are existing or proposed. cliff cinquefoil (Potentilla rimicola) 2 Cliff cinquefoil is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, cliff cinquefoil is restricted to openings in upper-montane coniferous forest and subalpine coniferous forest at elevations between 2,390 m and 3,030 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion. Cliff cinquefoil is a perennial plant which grows in granitic crevices within upper montane and subalpine coniferous forest. The UCR database does not contain any occurrences for this species in the Plan Area. The CNDDB contains two occurrences in the Plan Area: in Dark Canyon and near Deer Spring in the San Jacinto Mountains. least 1,500 acres of suitable Habitat (montane coniferous forest between 2,390 and 3,030 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the two known localities of this species in Dark Canyon and near Deer Spring. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm five localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section). achieved by inclusion of at least 1,500 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 10 acres (less than 1 percent) of potential Habitat for cliff cinquefoil will not be conserved. None of the known occurrences will be located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to cliff cinquefoil to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species where rock-climbing activities are allowed or proposed. The cliff cinquefoil is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains and the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. However, due to the paucity of occurrence data, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species FINAL MSHCP 9-112

113 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. Coulter s goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri) 3 Coulter s goldfields is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. Coulter s goldfields occurs as three core locations within the Plan Area. The largest and most significant populations are within the San Jacinto Wildlife Area and southern shores of Mystic Lake. This represents the largest remaining concentration of this species throughout its known range. Although currently suppressed by discing and dryland farming, the middle segment of the San Jacinto River represents a Core Area. A third Core Area is located on the alkali flats between Alberhill and Lake Elsinore. One population is known to occur on Salt Creek. Small, or historic populations, have also been reported from Anza, the vicinity of Murrieta and Temecula, the lake bed of Lake Elsinore, and at Woodcrest near Mockingbird Canyon. The current status of many of these smaller populations is unknown. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for Coulter s goldfields will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Coulter s goldfields located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with Objective 4: least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least 20 of the known occurrences of this species, including the three Core Areas: the San Jacinto Wildlife Area and the southern shores of Mystic Lake, the middle segment of the San Jacinto River and a portion of the Alberhill locality. s for Coulter's goldfields will be conducted for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Coulter's goldfields located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three core localities (the San Jacinto Wildlife Area and the southern shores of Mystic Lake; along the middle segment of the San Jacinto River; and a portion of the Core Area at Alberhill) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objectives 4 and 5 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for Coulter's goldfields will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Twenty-five of the 80 occurrences included in the UCR database, herbarium records and CNDDB will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, the current status of many of these small or historic populations (reported from Anza, the vicinity of Murrieta and Temecula, and at Woodcrest near Mockingbird Canyon) is unknown. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, upper Salt Creek and the alkali wetlands near Nichols Road, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, weed abatement/fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, trampling and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-113

114 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained within the linkage in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Coulter s matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri) 1 Coulter s matilija poppy is designated as a Group 1 species because it has a wide distribution throughout the Plan Area within suitable Habitat. Coulter s matilija poppy is known from the confluence of Leach and Dickey Canyons; Alberhill (Mountain Avenue and canyons near Alberhill); Fresno Canyon and Wardlow Canyon west of Corona; and the Gavilan Plateau; Temescal Canyon near Glen Eden and Hagador Canyon; and Horsethief Canyon. Coulter s matilija poppy occurs in dry washes and canyons below 1,200 m in open, mildly disturbed sage scrub, chaparral and along rocky drainages. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 65,350 acres of chaparral and 5,300 acres of coastal sage scrub below 1,200 feet on Forest Service and Public/Quasi-Public Lands within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 30 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section). achieved by inclusion of at least 70,650 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 25 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. About 26,730 acres of potential Habitat for the Coulter's matilija poppy will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Twenty-eight of the 43 known occurrences are located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, primarily in the vicinity of Woodcrest, on the Gavilan Plateau, the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. None 8 General Management Measure 1. The University of California, Riverside (UCR) database has 35 occurrence points for this species, the majority of which occur in the Santa Ana Mountains and east to Temescal Canyon. The herbaria at UCR and the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens contain eight records of this species, scattered from the Santa Ana Mountains east to the Gavilan Plateau. The Coulter s matilija poppy is restricted to the eastern slopes and foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. Most of the records for this species are outside of the proposed MSHCP Conservation Area. However, the existing records are not believed to be indicative of the distribution of this species and the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the FINAL MSHCP 9-114

115 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 2. Davidson s saltscale (Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii) 3 Davidson s saltscale is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. Populations are known from the Upper Salt Creek drainage area west of Hemet and along the San Jacinto River floodplain from Mystic Lake south to the Ramona Expressway where it occurs in small, patchy populations. The Salt Creek populations appear to represent the largest remaining concentrations of this species known to exist. This species may also occur in the vicinity of the Nichols Road wetlands at Alberhill and Murrieta Hot Springs. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list surveys for Davidson s saltscale will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Davidson s saltscale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the three known localities of Davidson's saltscale at Salt Creek, the San Jacinto River and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area. s for the Davidson's saltscale will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Davidson's saltscale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three core localities (Salt Creek west of Hemet, the San Jacinto Wildlife Area and along the middle segment of the San Jacinto River) and two potential locations (Nichols Road wetlands and near Murrieta Hot Springs) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Moreover, the configuration of the Criteria Area and Public/Quasi-Public Lands provides for maintenance of floodplain processes along Salt Creek and the San Jacinto River as described above. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for Davidson's saltscale will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Salt Creek and Mystic Lake, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and FINAL MSHCP 9-115

116 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained within the linkage in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Engelmann oak (Quercus engelmanii) 2 Engelmann oak is designated as a Group 2 species because of its specialized Habitat requirements and limited distribution within the Plan Area. Engelmann oak is restricted to southern oak woodlands and riparian/oak woodlands. Although 75 occurrences of Engelmann oak have been recorded within western Riverside County, the majority of stands in the Plan Area occur in a twelve-bytwelve-mile area around the Santa Rosa Plateau in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. Engelmann oaks are found on the Plateau in both the open or savannah phase and the riparian phase. least 19,070 acres of suitable Habitat (woodlands and forests, including riparian, where they occur below 1,325 m within the Santa Ana, Riverside Lowlands and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions). least 33 known occurrences of this species, including the core locations at the Santa Rosa Plateau and in the Santa Ana Mountains. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain recruitment at a minimum of 80 percent of the conserved populations as measured by the presence/absence of seedlings and/or saplings across any consecutive five years. achieved by inclusion of at least 19,070 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 33 known localities within large blocks of Habitat and Linkages in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 9,300 acres (33 percent) of the potential Habitat will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of this, approximately 4,490 acres will be in Rural/Mountains designation areas. Forty-three occurrences will be located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area; 29 of those 43 occurrences are located in the Rural/Mountainous area. None 8 1 to 5 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Engelmann's oak to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species in order to maintain recruitment at a minimum of 80% of the conserved populations as measured by the presence/absence of seedlings and/or saplings across any consecutive five years. Individual seedlings and/or saplings will be followed in order to assemble demographic data. Fish s milkwort (Polygala cornuta var. fishiae) 2 Fish s milkwort is designated as a Group 2 species. Fish s milkwort is associated with shaded areas within cismontane oak woodlands and riparian woodlands, although it also occurs in xeric and mesic chaparral Habitat at elevations between 100 m and 1,100 m in the Santa Ana and Agua Tibia Mountains. The known and historic occurrences in the Plan Area are restricted to the Tenaja/Santa Rosa Plateau area and the lower national forest of the Santa Ana Mountains (San Mateo Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau, Temecula Canyon, Cole Canyon and the Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve). Fish s milkwort has been recorded just outside the southern boundary of Riverside County along the southern flank of the Agua Tibia Mountains indicating that this species may also be found along the northern slopes of the Agua Tibia Mountains. least 123,580 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, riparian scrub and woodland/forest between 100 and 1,100 m in the Santa Ana Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountains Bioregions). least three of the known localities (Santa Rosa Plateau, Santa Margarita Ecological Preserve, and San Mateo Canyon). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 50 individuals (ramets or genets) each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). achieved by inclusion of at least 123,580 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and at least three known localities within large blocks of Habitat at San Mateo Canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains, the Santa Rosa Plateau and the Santa Margarita Ecological Preserve in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 75,210 acres will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of nine mapped localities, four (two at Temecula Canyon and Cole Canyon west of Murrieta, and two at Main Street Canyon just south of Corona) are located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Currently unknown occurrences outside the MSHCP Conservation Area will be subject to Take in accordance with Section None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to this species to the maximum extent practicable. FINAL MSHCP 9-116

117 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Fish s milkwort is restricted to the eastern slopes of the Santa Ana Mountains and possibly the northern slopes of the Agua Tibia Mountains. Although the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species, the distribution of the species is not entirely understood. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. graceful tarplant (Holocarpha virgata ssp. elongata) 2 Graceful tarplant is designated as a Group 2 species because although this species has a fairly scattered distribution, the known occurrences are concentrated within the Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills, primarily within USFS Lands. Within the Plan Area, graceful tarplant is restricted to coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest and valley and foothill grasslands at elevations below 600 m within Western Riverside County. Graceful tarplant is a Forest Service Sensitive Species found in the Cleveland National Forest. Forest Service Sensitive Plants are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. least 129,910 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, meadows and marshes below 600 m). least eight of the known locations, including four occurrences located on Santa Rosa Plateau and four occurrences in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness Area. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with 1,000 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). achieved by inclusion of at least 129,910 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and eight known localities (on the Santa Rosa Plateau and in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness Area of the Santa Ana Mountains) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 156,180 acres (54 percent) of potential Habitat for graceful tarplant will not be conserved. One of the mapped locations is located southwest of Cherry Street in Temecula, outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. This locality dates from 1967 and is likely extirpated. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to graceful tarplant to the maximum extent practicable. The MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. However, due to the age of the records (dating from 1959 to 1994), Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. Hall s monardella (Monardella macrantha ssp. hallii) 2 Hall s monardella is designated as a Group 2 species because although this species has a fairly scattered distribution (Santa Ana Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains and the Agua Tibia Mountains), the known occurrences are concentrated within the USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, Hall s monardella is restricted to chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, woodlands and forest, and valley and least 224,860 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, grasslands, montane coniferous forest and woodland forest within the Santa Ana Mountain, San Jacinto Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountain Bioregions). achieved by inclusion of at least 224,860 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and five known localities (two in the San Jacinto Mountains, two in the Agua Tibia Mountains and one in the Santa Ana Mountains) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 83,530 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for Hall s monardella will not be included within the Criteria Area or existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands. None of the known occurrences for this species will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Hall's monardella populations to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where recreational and fire-suppression activities are allowed or planned. FINAL MSHCP 9-117

118 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES foothill grasslands. This is a species which is found primarily on USFS lands at Cahuilla Mountain and a locality south west of Pine Cove in the San Jacinto Mountains, the north slope of the Agua Tibia Mountains, and Santiago Peak in the Santa Ana Mountains. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. least the five known locations of this species: Cahuilla Mountain and an occurrence southwest of Pine Cove in the San Jacinto Mountains, two occurrences on the north slope of the Agua Tibia Mountains and Santiago Peak in the Santa Ana Mountains. Hammitt's clay-cress (Sibaropsis hammittii) 3 Hammitt's clay-cress is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and special habitat requirements. Within the Plan Area, Hammitt's clay-cress is only known from the Elsinore Peak area of the Santa Ana Mountains in grasslands. Suitable habitat consists of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and peninsular juniper woodland on clay soils between 300 and 1,000 m in the Santa Ana Mountains and Riverside Lowlands bioregions. Suitable habitat for this species is found on Public/Quasi-Public (Forest Service) and private lands. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Hammitt's clay-cress will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Hammitt's clay-cress located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. least 21,260 acres of suitable habitat (grassland, coastal sage scrub, chaparral and peninsular juniper woodland between 300 and 1,000 m in the Riverside Lowlands and Santa Ana Mountains bioregions). This will include at least 2,070 acres of clay soils: Altamont (190 acres), Auld (250 acres), Bosanko (600 acres), Claypit (100 acres) and Porterville (930 acres) soils underlying the suitable habitat. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Core Area for this species, including at least the one known locality near Elsinore Peak and suitable habitat adjacent to these occurrences. s for Hammitt's clay-cress will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Hammitt's clay-cress located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 21,260 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and five known occurrences near Elsinore Peak within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 15,825 acres (42%) of suitable Habitat will not be conserved. It is important to note, however, that this suitable Habitat is included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area and Conservation of this suitable Habitat will be addressed in accordance with the procedures presented in the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species). 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to alteration of the natural fire regime, trampling, off-road vehicle use, and non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-118

119 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES heart-leaved pitcher sage (Lepechinia cardiophylla) 2 Heart-leaved pitcher sage is designated as a Group 2 species because of its restriction to the Santa Ana Mountains, primarily (potentially all) within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, heart-leaved pitcher sage is restricted to chaparral and woodlands and forests at elevations between 550 m and 1,370 m within the Santa Ana Mountains. All populations occur within USFS lands except four occurrences, which are suspect and should be verified. This is a species which is found in a number of locations in the Santa Ana Mountains, including Sierra Peak, Indian Truck Trail, Bald Peak, Trabuco Peak, Horsethief Trail, Pleasants Peak and the ridge between Ladd Canyon and East Fork Canyon. All of the undisputed occurrences are located on USFS lands. Heart-leaved pitcher sage is designated a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. least 56,950 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, woodlands and forests between 550 m and 1,370 m within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion). least six known populations in the Santa Ana Mountains (within the vicinity of Sierra Peak, Indian Truck Trail, Bald Peak, Trabuco Peak, Horsethief Trail, Pleasants Peak, and the ridge between Ladd Canyon and East Fork Canyon). s for the heart-leaved pitcher sage will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Heart-leaved pitcher sage located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. achieved by inclusion of at least 56,950 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and six known localities (in the Santa Ana Mountains of the Cleveland National Forest) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 14,560 acres (20 percent) of potential Habitat for heartleaved pitcher sage will not be included within the Criteria Area or existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands. Four populations of heart-leaved pitcher sage recorded outside of the Santa Ana Mountains (Cleveland National Forest) and outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area are suspect and should be verified. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to heart-leaved pitcher sage to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where transmission lines and fire-suppression activities are allowed or planned. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for heartleaved pitcher sage will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Heart-leaved pitcher sage located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. intermediate mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius) 2 Intermediate mariposa lily is designated as a Group 2 species because of its scattered but restricted distribution within particular Habitat associations. Within the Plan Area, this species is known from Vail Lake and the hills west of Crown Valley. Intermediate mariposa lily is also known from Sierra Peak, along the border between Orange County and Riverside County, although this least 195,730 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and coastal sage scrub between 120 and 850 m). least two of the known localities (hills west of Crown Valley and Vail Lake) and possibly a third achieved by inclusion of at least 195,730 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and at least two known localities within large blocks of Habitat at Vail Lake and Crown Valley in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 147,550 (43 percent) of potential Habitat will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. All of the known occurrences of this species will be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to intermediate mariposa lily to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where fire, fire-suppression or road construction activities are allowed or proposed. FINAL MSHCP 9-119

120 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES occurrence may not lie within the boundaries of the Plan Area. This species occurs on dry, rocky open slopes and rock outcrops in coastal scrub and chaparral at elevations from 120 m to 850 m. locality (Sierra Peak area of the Santa Ana Mountains) of the species. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Plants are protected through the implementation of Forest plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on this species. Jaeger s milk-vetch (Astragalus pachypus var. jaegeri) 2 Jaeger's milk-vetch is designated as a Group 2 species because of its several Core Areas. Although the species has a fairly scattered distribution (Vail Lake near Kolb Creek, on the south side of Aguanga Valley, in the vicinity of Sage, Temecula Canyon, in the vicinity of Castile Canyon, in a canyon west of Portrero Creek, and at the base of Agua Tibia Mountain), Jaeger's milk-vetch appears to be concentrated in the vicinity of Sage, Vail Lake near Kolb Creek, and the base of Agua Tibia Mountains. Jaeger's milk-vetch is endemic to northern San Diego and southern Riverside counties. Jaeger's milk-vetch occurs on dry ridges and valleys and open sandy or rocky slopes in coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland and cismontane woodland Habitats at elevations of 365 to 915 m (CNDDB 2000; CNPS 2001). Most areas of known written descriptions of the species are being conserved either within the Criteria Area or existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands including the Core Areas: Sage, Vail Lake near Kolb Creek, and the base of Agua Tibia Mountains. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 249,440 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, grassland, coastal sage scrub and woodland/forest between 365 and 915 m in the appropriate Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the seven known localities (18 occurrences) of this species at Aguanga Valley, San Jacinto Mountains, Potrero Creek, Sage, Temecula Canyon, and the Core location at Vail Lake and the base of the Agua Tibia Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 249,440 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and seven known localities (Aguanga Valley, Sage, Vail Lake, San Jacinto Mountains, Agua Tibia Mountains, Potrero Creek, and Temecula Canyon) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 223,800 acres (48 percent) of potential Habitat will not be conserved. Of the 11 herbarium records, two of the localities will not be conserved: Beaumont (dating from 1897) and the foothills of the Agua Tibia Mountains (dating from 19997). Of the three UCR database point localities for this species, one of the records (Beaumont 1897) will not be conserved; however, this overlaps with the herbarium Beaumont 1897 record. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Jaeger's milkvetch to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where agricultural conversion and grazing is allowed or proposed. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. FINAL MSHCP 9-120

121 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Johnston s rock cress (Arabis johnstonii) 3 Johnston s rock cress is designated as a Group 3 species because it is endemic to the San Jacinto Mountains and the known populations require specific monitoring and management. Within the Plan Area, Johnston s rock cress is restricted to the Garner Valley/Lake Hemet area of the San Jacinto Mountains in chaparral and pine forest Habitat at elevations of 1,400 m to 2,150 m. Suitable Habitat for this species is found on Public/Quasi-Public (Forest Service) and private lands. In the Plan Area, most of the occurrences within the Forest are in two grazing allotments. The Forest Service has taken steps to minimize the effects of grazing where this plant is present on grazing allotments. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant list (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Johnston s rock cress will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Johnston s rock cress located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. least 34,975 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and pine forest Habitat between 1,400 and 2,150 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the two Core Areas for this species, including at least 17 of the known occurrences in Garner Valley and Mountain Springs and suitable Habitat adjacent to these occurrences. s for Johnston s rock cress will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Johnston s rock cress located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 34,975 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 17 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 11,810 acres (25 percent) of potential Habitat will not be conserved. According to the UCR database, one of the mapped locations is located on private lands and one of the CNDDB records is not conserved. It is important to note, however, that this potential Habitat and the mapped location are included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area and Conservation of this potential Habitat and known location will be addressed in accordance with the procedures presented in the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Johnston's rock cress to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where fire and fire suppression, off-road vehicle use, and grazing activities are allowed or proposed. lemon lily (Lilium parryi) 2 Lemon lily is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, and has site specific monitoring and management requirements. Within the Plan Area, lemon lily is restricted to forested, shady stream banks within narrow canyon bottoms, higher than 1,300 m above mean sea level within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion. In Western Riverside County, lemon lily is considered to be limited to the San Jacinto Mountains (Reiser 1994; Skinner 1988). The known localities are within the San Jacinto Mountains. least 10,250 acres of suitable Habitat (woodland/ forest and riparian scrub, woodland and forest above 1,300 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). least six localities (seven occurrences) within the San Jacinto Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 10,250 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 17 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in USFS lands in the San Jacinto Mountains within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 1,170 acres (10 percent) of potential Habitat for lemon lily will not be conserved. Of the records in the UCR database and the herbaria at UCR and Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens, five of the mapped locations are located on private lands within the San Jacinto Mountains and will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to lemon lily to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species for pollinators, over-collection, flood control activities and competition with non-native plant species. This plant is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the FINAL MSHCP 9-121

122 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. little mousetail (Myosurus minimus ssp. apus) 3 Little mousetail is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to vernal pools in association with clay or alkali soils. Little mousetail occurs as three Core locations within the Plan Area: the Salt Creek population west of Hemet (the largest population within southern California), and the two populations on the Santa Rosa Plateau. This species also occurs at Harford Springs County Park. This is a species on the Additional s Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) and surveys for little mousetail will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Little mousetail located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least five of the known locations of this species, including Harford Springs County Park on the Gavilan Plateau and the three core locations: one along Salt Creek west of Hemet and two on the Santa Rosa Plateau. s for the little mousetail will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Little mousetail located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three core localities (the Salt Creek population west of Hemet and the two populations on the Santa Rosa Plateau) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objectives 4 and 5 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,370 acres of potential Habitat for little mousetail will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The historic populations at March Air Reserve Base and within the Edgemont area are likely extirpated. The populations reported from the vicinity of Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and Menifee, if still extant, are located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Salt Creek and Mystic Lake, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. FINAL MSHCP 9-122

123 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. long-spined spine flower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina) 2 Long-spined spine flower is designated as a Group 2 species because of its fairly wide distribution within specific soil restrictions and the presence of two Core locations. The species is known from Temescal Canyon area, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain Reserve, Harford Springs Park, the Motte Reserve, the Gavilan Plateau, Alberhill, French Valley, Vail Lake, Agua Tibia Mountains, Murrieta, the southern Santa Ana Mountains, the Santa Rosa Plateau, Skunk Hollow, the Paloma Valley, Lake Skinner Preserve, and along the north slopes of the Palomar Mountains. Long-spined spine flower appears to be most prevalent in the vicinity of Lake Mathews and the Agua Tibia Mountains. least 389,510 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub and grassland) including Altamont (190 acres), Auld (400 acres), Bosanko (470 acres), Porterville (100 acres), and claypit (600 acres) soils. least 32 locations of this species, including the two Core locations at Lake Matthews and in the Agua Tibia Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 389,510 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and at least 57 known occurrences at 15 locations (including the Core localities at Lake Mathews and the Agua Tibia Mountains) within large blocks of Habitat at Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, Santa Rosa Plateau, Santa Ana Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountains in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 309,020 acres will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Nineteen of the 55 records in the UCR database and the herbaria at UCR and Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. The 19 occurrences include the following localities: Temescal Canyon, Murrieta, Gavilan Plateau, Alberhill, City of Riverside, Sedco Hills, Antelope Valley, Rancho California, and the Santa Ana Mountains. Three of the CNDDB occurrences at Lake Mathews will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to long-spined spine flower to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species regarding threats to this species, including competition with non-native grasses, off-road vehicle use, sheep and cattle grazing, and discing. many-stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis) 3 Many-stemmed dudleya is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution in Riverside County and specialized Habitat requirements. A number of populations exist within western Riverside County; however, these are concentrated within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion and western portion of the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion, with the majority of the populations known from the Temescal Canyon, Gavilan Plateau, and Alberhill areas and the Santa Ana Mountains, including the San Mateo Wilderness Area of the Cleveland National Forest. Many-stemmed dudleya is associated with openings in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and grasslands underlain by clay and cobbly clay soils of the following series: Altamont, Auld, Bosanko, Claypit, and Porterville. least 142,680 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub and grassland below 700 m in the Riverside Lowlands and Santa Ana Mountain Bioregions) in the Plan Area, including 1,575 acres of clay soils: 190 acres of Altamont, 210 acres of Auld, 490 acres of Bosanko, 100 acres of Claypit soils and 585 acres of Porterville soils. least 26 of the known occurrences of many-stemmed dudleya, including the occurrences at Estelle Mountain, Temescal Canyon, the Santa Ana Mountains, Gavilan Hills, Alberhill Creek, and Prado Basin. achieved by inclusion of at least 142,680 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 26 known localities (Estelle Mountain, Temescal Canyon, the Santa Ana Mountains, Gavilan Hills, Alberhill Creek, Prado Basin) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 185,710 acres (53 percent) of potential Habitat and 17 occurrences (Mira Loma, foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, Coronita, east of Lake Elsinore and near Alberhill) within the Plan Area will not be conserved; however, all of the Core locations will be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Portions of additional populations will be addressed through application of the Narrow Endemics policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Yes, see Section (Protection o f Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to the many-stemmed dudleya to the maximum extent practicable. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant list (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for many-stemmed dudleya will be conducted as part of the project review process s for many-stemmed dudleya will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow FINAL MSHCP 9-123

124 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Many-stemmed dudleya located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Many-stemmed dudleya located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. Mojave tarplant (Deinandra mohavensis) (formerly known as Hemizonia mohavensis) 2 Mojave tarplant is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, Mojave tarplant is restricted to low sand bars in river beds, along stream channels and in ephemeral grassy areas in riparian scrub and chaparral at elevations between 850 m to 1,575 m in the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion. The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) contains three occurrences for this species, all located along Highway 243 north of Pine Cove within the San Jacinto Mountains and the University of California, Riverside (UCR) GIS database and UCR herbarium contain five occurrences, three in the San Jacinto Mountains, one near the San Jacinto River east of Hemet and one northeast of Vail Lake (the Vail Lake record is suspect). Seven of the eight known occurrences are located within the MSHCP Conservation Area, although two of the UCR herbarium records and two of the CNDDB records appear to be the same locality. least 80,160 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, riparian scrub, and woodland/forest between 850 and 1,575 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). least five of the known localities (represented by seven records) within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and northeast of Vail Lake. least four localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) occupying at least 100 acres. achieved by inclusion of at least 80,160 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and five known localities (six records at four localities within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and one record northeast of Vail Lake) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 27,850 acres (26 percent) of potential Habitat for Mojave tarplant will not be conserved. According to the University of California, Riverside, GIS database, the mapped location along the Banning Idyllwild Panoramic Highway is located on private lands and will not be conserved. According to the CNDDB, an occurrence within the San Jacinto Mountains is located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area (road right-of-way)and will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to this species to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where flood control and grazing activities are allowed or proposed. Although the existing records are not believed to be indicative of the distribution of this species, the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until FINAL MSHCP 9-124

125 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. mud nama (Nama stenocarpum) 3 Mud nama is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for hydrology. This species occurs within muddy embankments of marshes and swamps, and within lake margins and riverbanks. Only three occurrences of this species are known from the Plan Area: two occurrences along the San Jacinto River near Gilman Springs Road and one occurrence in the USGS 7.5 minute El Casco quadrangle. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for mud nama will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Mud nama located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: least 7,050 acres of suitable habitat (meadows/ marshes and playa/vernal pools between 5 and 500 m within the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area two of the three known occurrences of this species along the San Jacinto River near Gilman Springs Road. s for mud nama will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Mud nama located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. achieved by inclusion of at least 7,050 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two occurrences. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objective 4 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (e.g., floodplain hydrology) upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,220 acres of potential Habitat in the Plan Area will not be conserved. The exact location of the occurrence noted in the USGS 7.5 minute El Casco quadrangle is not known; therefore, it is not known whether this location will be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area or not. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. FINAL MSHCP 9-125

126 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Munz s mariposa lily (Calochortus palmeri var. munzii) 3 Munz's mariposa lily is designated as a Group 3 species because it is restricted to the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, Munz's mariposa lily is restricted to lower montane coniferous forest (yellow pine forest), chaparral and meadows at elevations between 900 m and 1,640 m within the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion. Occurrences are known from Garner Valley along both sides of Highway 74, off Forbes Ranch Road and near Mountain Center. CNNDB contains three mapped occurrences in the San Jacinto Mountains, two of which are located within existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant list (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Munz's mariposa lily will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Munz's mariposa lily located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 33,470 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, meadow, and montane coniferous forest between 900 and 1,640 m within the Narrow Endemic Area of the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 10 of the known locations within the San Jacinto Mountains, including Garner Valley. s for Munz's mariposa lily will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Munz's mariposa lily located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 33,470 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 10 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 9,880 acres (23 percent) of potential Habitat for Munz's mariposa lily will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Four of the 14 localities will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is important to note, however, that this potential Habitat and these mapped location are included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area and Conservation of this potential Habitat and known locations will be addressed in accordance with the procedures presented in the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Munz's mariposa lily to the maximum extent practicable. Particular management emphasis will be given to competition with non-native species, sheep and cattle grazing, off-road vehicle use, fire and fire suppression activities and hydrology altering activities. Munz s onion (Allium munzii) 3 Munz's onion is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution in Riverside County and specialized Habitat requirements. The species has a scattered distribution (Estelle Mountain and the Gavilan Plateau at Harford Springs Park southeast through the hills north of Lake Elsinore, to the Paloma Valley, Skunk Hollow, and Lake Skinner area) and is associated with clay and cobbly clay soils which include the following series: Altamont, Auld, Bosanko, Claypit, and Porterville. least 21,260 acres of suitable Habitat (grassland, coastal sage scrub, chaparral and peninsular juniper woodland between 300 and 1,000 m in the Riverside Lowlands and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions). This will include at least 2,070 acres of clay soils: Altamont (190 acres), Auld (250 acres), Bosanko (600 acres), Claypit (100 acres) and Porterville (930 acres) soils underlying the suitable Habitat. achieved by inclusion of at least 21,260 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 15 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 15,825 acres of potential Habitat in the Plan Area will not be conserved. Fifty percent of the core locations at Harford Springs and Estelle Mountain occur on private lands but will be conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Two populations (EO 5 and EO 16) are Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for competition with non-native plant species, clay mining, off-road vehicle use and discing activities. FINAL MSHCP 9-126

127 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES This is a species on the Narrow Endemics Plant list (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Munz's onion will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume 1). Munz's onion located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. least 13 localities within Temescal Valley and the southwestern portion of Plan Area, including the following Core Areas: Harford Springs Park, privately owned EO 5 population in Temescal Valley, Alberhill, DiPalma Rd, Estelle Mountain, Domenigoni Hills, Lake Skinner, Bachelor Mountain, Elsinore Peak, Scott Road, North Peak, and northeast of Alberhill (EO 16). s for the Munz's onion will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Munz's onion located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. completely outside the MSHCP Conservation Area but will be conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics policy. Nevin s barberry (Berberis nevinii) 3 Nevin's barberry is designated as a Group 3 species because of its narrowly defined geographic distribution (primarily the San Timoteo/Badlands area, Vail Lake and the Agua Tibia Mountains) and dependence on natural fire regimes. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for Nevin's barberry will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Nevin's barberry located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. least 8,000 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub between 300 and 659 m in the Vail Lake area as depicted on Figure 6-1, the Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area and the Agua Tibia Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known locations for Nevin's barberry in the San Timoteo/Badlands area, Jurupa Hills and Agua Tibia/Vail Lake area. s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume 1). Nevin's barberry located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. achieved by inclusion of at least 8,000 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 49 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 3,990 acres (33 percent) of potential Habitat for Nevin's barberry will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. A lone individual reported from a rocky outcrop in a residential area in the city of Riverside (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) is presumed to be impacted. The historic (1927) Aguanga location could be impacted. The Temecula location needs to be verified (CNDDB) and could be impacted Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species for competition with non-native species, flood control activities and alteration of the natural fire regime. FINAL MSHCP 9-127

128 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ocellated Humboldt lily (Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum) 2 Ocellated Humboldt lily is designated as a Group 2 species. The known occurrences are concentrated within the Santa Ana and Agua Tibia mountains, primarily within USFS Lands within the Plan Area. Ocellated Humboldt lily is associated with riparian corridors in lower montane coniferous forest and coastal chaparral below 1,691 m (5,500 feet) within the Agua Tibia and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. This species typically occurs on lower stream benches but can also occur on shaded, dry slopes, beneath a dense coniferous canopy and cismontane oak woodland (Boyd and Banks 1995; CNPS 2001). Most populations are concentrated in the Santa Ana Mountains or along the north slope of the Palomar Mountains (Reveal and Hardham 1989; Boyd and Banks 1995; Boyd et al. 1995; Banks 1999). The Forest Service Assessment states that occurrences of this plant are found on all four southern California National Forests. Plants in the Cleveland and San Bernardino Forests are found in low-elevation riparian areas and seeps of chaparral canyons. least 7,700 acres of suitable Habitat (woodland/ forest below 1,691 m within the Santa Ana Mountains and Agua Tibia Mountains Bioregions). least four of the known locations at Arroyo Seco Canyon in the Agua Tibia Wilderness Area and Fisherman's Camp in Tenaja Canyon and the historic occurrences known from Castro Canyon, Horsethief Canyon, Elsinore Mountains; and Corona between Tin Mine Canyon and Santiago Peak, Skyline Drive populations. achieved by inclusion of at least 7,700 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and at least four known localities within large blocks of Habitat on USFS lands within the Santa Ana Mountains and the Agua Tibia Mountains in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 3,820 acres (33 percent) of potential Habitat for ocellated Humboldt lily will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The two historic (1955 and 1966) localities in Horsethief Canyon and near Corona, will be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species for the potential for collection by humans and proximity of existing and planned trail systems. Orcutt s brodiaea (Brodiaea orcuttii) 3 Orcutt's brodiaea is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for hydrology. Within the Plan Area, this species is restricted to ephemeral wetlands on the Santa Rosa Plateau, at Miller Mountain within the San Mateo Wilderness Area and along the San Jacinto River south of Perris. The Miller Mountain population of Orcutt's brodiaea occurs with thread-leaved brodiaea at this location. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area one occurrence at Miller Mountain within the San Mateo Wilderness Area; a complex of about five occurrences on the Mesa de Burro, Mesa de Colorado, and Mesa de la Punta on the Santa Rosa Plateau within the Santa Rosa Plateau Preserve; and one occurrence along the San Jacinto River. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the watershed of the vernal pool complexes at the Santa Rosa Plateau, at Miller Mountain and along the San Jacinto River in order to maintain hydrologic conditions. achieved by inclusion of suitable Conserved Habitat and three known localities (including watershed) within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Two records from 1960, located in the vicinity of Murrieta Hot Springs and west of the Santa Rosa Plateau, will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain the hydrological processes of the watersheds supporting the occupied vernal pools at the Santa Rosa Plateau, the San Jacinto River and the San Mateo Wilderness Area. FINAL MSHCP 9-128

129 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Palmer s grapplinghook (Harpagonella palmeri) 2 Palmer's grapplinghook is designated as a Group 2 species because it is known from several Core Areas and is restricted to particular soils series within the Plan Area. Although the species has a scattered distribution, locations appear to be concentrated in the western portion of the Plan Area. Palmer's grapplinghook is associated with clay and cobbly clay soils in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, valley and foothill grasslands (Reiser 2001), and scrub oak woodland (CNDDB) below 1500 feet (500 m). Within the Plan Area, populations are known from the Riverside Lowlands, San Jacinto Foothill, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. least 90,490 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and grassland below 500 m in the Riverside Lowlands, Santa Ana Mountains and San Jacinto Foothills Bioregions) in the Plan Area, including 2,130 acres of clay soils: 190 acres of Altamont, 350 acres of Auld, 570 acres of Bosanko, 100 acres of Claypit soils and 920 acres of Porterville soils. least 24 of the known occurrences of this species at Temescal Wash, Alberhill, Lake Elsinore, Antelope Valley, Bachelor Mountain, Vail Lake, Lake Mathews, Harford Springs Park, Cleveland National Forest, Skunk Hollow, Lake Skinner and Vail Lake. achieved by inclusion of at least 90,490 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 58 occurrences at 13 localities within large blocks of Habitat (Vail Lake, Lake Matthews, Lake Skinner, Antelope Valley, Temescal Canyon, and the Cleveland National Forest) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 131,300 acres of potential Habitat for Palmer's grapplinghook will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of the 84 occurrences in the UCR database and the herbarium records, 28 will not be conserved, including occurrences in the vicinity of Alberhill, Hemet Lake, Paloma Valley, Murrietta Hot Springs, Gavilan Plateau, El Cerrito, Santa Ana Mountains, Lake Elsinore, Temescal Canyon, Gavilan Hills, and Vail Lake. None 8 Reserve Manager will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Palmer s grapplinghook to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for competition with non-native species, fire and fire suppression, farming, clay mining and grazing. Palomar monkeyflower (Mimulus diffusus) 2 Palomar monkeyflower is designated as a Group 2 species because although this species has a fairly scattered distribution (San Jacinto Mountains along Highways 74 and 243, the vicinity of Sage, the Santa Rosa Plateau, French Valley north of Lake Skinner and east of Lake Skinner), the known occurrences are concentrated within the Santa Ana, Agua Tibia and San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS Lands. Within the Plan Area, Palomar monkeyflower is restricted to chaparral and montane coniferous forest at elevations between 1,500 m to 2,000 m. least 23,800 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and montane coniferous forest between 1,500 and 2,000 m within the Agua Tibia, San Jacinto and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions). least 18 of the known locations on the Santa Rosa Plateau; in the vicinity of Sage; French Valley; east of Lake Skinner; and in the San Jacinto, Agua Tibia and Santa Ana Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 23,800 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 18 known localities within large blocks of Habitat (on the Santa Rosa Plateau; in the vicinity of Sage; French Valley; east of Lake Skinner; and in the San Jacinto, Agua Tibia and Santa Ana mountains) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 8,940 acres of (27 percent) the potential Habitat for Palomar monkeyflower will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of the 26 known locations (29 occurrences),11 of the mapped locations (six locations in the San Jacinto Mountains, one location in the Santa Ana Mountains, and four locations in the vicinity of Sage) are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Palomar monkeyflower to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for trampling and trail maintenance activities where trails, roads and transmitting equipment are existing or proposed. Parish s brittlescale (Atriplex parishii) 3 Parish's brittlescale is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. Parish's brittlescale occurs as three populations within the upper Salt Creek area west of Hemet. Although no current populations are known from the lower and middle segments of the San Jacinto River, or Mystic Lake and the San Jacinto Wildlife Areas, these areas support suitable Habitat and historical localities imply that these least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the three known populations of the Parish's brittlescale in the upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet. s for the Parish's brittlescale will be conducted as part of the project review process for achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the core locality at Salt Creek and potential Habitat along the San Jacinto River within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for Parish's brittlescale will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Winchester Valley locality, if still extant, will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-129

130 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES areas may also be key to the species survival. Records of this species are also known from Winchester Valley. The status of this locality is uncertain, however. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for Parish's brittlescale will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Parish's brittlescale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume 1. Objective 4: public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume 1). Parish's brittlescale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained within the linkage in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Parish s meadowfoam (Limnanthes gracilis var. parishii) 3 Parish's meadowfoam is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for hydrology. Within the Plan Area, this species is restricted to ephemeral wetlands on the Santa Rosa Plateau. least one known location on the Santa Rosa Plateau. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the watershed of the vernal pool complex on the Santa achieved by inclusion of suitable Conserved Habitat and the core locality and associated watershed within a large block of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. No known populations of Parish's meadowfoam will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, suitable Habitat for this species is present outside the MSHCP Conservation Area in ephemeral None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve managers will maintain the watershed and hydrologic conditions of the known vernal pool complexes on the Santa Rosa Plateau. FINAL MSHCP 9-130

131 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Rosa Plateau in order to maintain hydrologic conditions. wetlands and mima mounds in forest glades and mountain areas. The level of potential Take in these areas outside the MSHCP Conservation Area cannot be determined at this time. Parry s spine flower (Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi) 2 Parry's spine flower is designated as a Group 2 species because although it has a patchy distribution within the Plan Area (Vail Lake, Gilman Hot Springs, Wilson Valley, Juniper Flats, Rawson Canyon, Reche Canyon, Antelope Valley, the Santa Rosa Hills, Cherry Valley, City of Banning, Moreno Valley, near the intersection of Central Avenue and Indiana Avenue, Gavilan Plateau, El Cerrito, Quail Valley, Wolf Valley, Aguanga Valley, Diamond Valley Lake, Valle Vista, Black Mountain, Gavilan Peak, in the vicinity of Lake Elsinore, City of Riverside, and near Highway 91 in the vicinity of Home Gardens) this species has specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to alluvial floodplains and alluvial chaparral and scrub of Western Riverside County, specifically the Santa Ana, Agua Tibia (Palomar), San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains. Within the Plan Area, the distribution of Parry's spine flower is patchy and poorly understood. The existing records are not believed to be indicative of the distribution of this species although the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 218,630 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and alluvial fan sage scrub between 100 and 1,300 m in the San Bernardino, Santa Ana, Agua Tibia and San Jacinto Mountains, the Riverside Lowlands, Desert Transition and San Jacinto Hills Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area twenty (20) occurrences of Parry's spine flower, including locations throughout the Vail Lake area and in the vicinity of Lake Mathews, Gavilan Hills, Antelope Valley, Rawson Canyon, Santa Rosa Hills, Reche Canyon, Wilson Valley, Juniper Flats, Gilman Hot Springs Road and Diamond Valley Lake. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). achieved by inclusion of at least 218,630 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 17 known occurrences (at Lake Matthews, Gavilan Hills, Antelope Valley, Rawson Canyon, Santa Rosa Hills, Reche Canyon, Wilson Valley, Juniper Flats, Gilman Hot Springs Road, Vail Lake, and Diamond Valley Lake) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Within the CNDDB, eight of the 19 mapped locations are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. These locations occur at Gavilan Peak, in the vicinity of Lake Elsinore, Diamond Valley Lake, City of Riverside, and near Highway 91 in the vicinity of Home Gardens. Within the UCR database and herbarium records, 24 of the 40 mapped locations occur outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. These locations occur in the vicinity of Cherry Valley, Banning, Beaumont, Hemet, Moreno Valley, City of Riverside, Gavilan Plateau, Murrieta, Winchester, east of State Street, and Highgrove. Approximately 127,100 acres of potential Habitat for Parry's spine flower will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The City of Riverside (1903, 1905) and the City of Banning (1903) records are historic occurrences and should be verified. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Parry's spine flower to the maximum extent practicable. Particular management emphasis will be given to the potential for flood control and mining activities. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. Payson s jewelflower (Caulanthus simulans) 1 Payson's jewelflower is designated as a Group 1 species because it has a widespread distribution within the least 94,430 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, achieved by inclusion of at least 94,430 Approximately 46,380 acres of potential Habitat will not be conserved. None 8 General Management Measure 1. FINAL MSHCP 9-131

132 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES southeastern portion of the Plan Area and within suitable Habitat. Payson's jewelflower is known from Aguanga, Billy Goat Mountain, Lewis Valley, and Tule Valley. Potential Habitat for Payson's jewelflower includes peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, chaparral and coastal sage scrub between 400 and 2,200 m. This species is dependent on disturbance (e.g., scoured areas along stream courses, recently burned areas, etc.). coastal sage scrub and peninsular juniper woodland and scrub between 400 and 2,200 m). acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and four known localities (Aguanga, Billygoat Mountain, Lewis Valley, and Tule Valley) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Of the six UCR database and UCR herbarium records for this species in the southeastern portion of the Plan Area, one is located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area in the vicinity of Aguanga. peninsular spine flower (Chorizanthe leptotheca) 2 Peninsular spine flower is designated as a Group 2 species because although it has a patchy distribution within the Plan Area (Temescal Canyon, Aguanga Valley [Temecula River Valley], Garner Valley, Gavilan Plateau, Hemet, Hemet Lake [UCR database], Agua Tibia Wilderness Area, Kolb Creek at Highway 79, Vail Lake, Good Hope, Valle Vista and Cahuilla) it has specialized Habitat requirements. This species is found in open Habitats, typically on granitic-derived or alluvial surfaces between 300 and 1,900 m in elevation. At higher elevations, this species appears to be associated with chaparral, sage scrub and coniferous forest openings and at lower elevations it is typically associated with old formation alluvial benches. Many of the occurrence data for this species are old, with seven of the 17 occurrences dating from 1922 to Although it is found on USFS lands, peninsular spine flower is not primarily a Forest Service Species; 27 percent of the potential Habitat for this species is located in the Criteria Area. Therefore, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 2. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 206,010 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and montane coniferous forest between 300 and 1,900 m within the Vail Lake area, the Agua Tibia Wilderness area, the San Bernardino Mountains, the San Jacinto Mountains and the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions). Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). achieved by inclusion of at least 206,010 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and five occurrences at three known localities (Aguanga Valley, Kolb Creek, and Temescal Canyon) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 2 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Of the 17 UCR database and herbarium records, 12 occurrences will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. These occurrences include the Valle Vista, Garner Valley (historic, requires verification), Hemet Lake, Gavilan Plateau, Bautista Canyon, Reche Canyon, Hemet, and Temescal Canyon localities. Of the seven unmapped locations, three locations will not be conserved. Those individuals occurring at Hemet Lake, Good Hope and Cahuilla are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area and will not be conserved within the MSHCP Plan Area. A total of 78,150 acres of potential Habitat for the peninsular spine flower will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to peninsular spine flower to the maximum extent practicable. Particular management emphasis will be given to competition from non-native plant species. Plummer s mariposa lily (Calochortus plummerae) 2 Plummer's mariposa lily is designated as a Group 2 species because it is restricted to locations within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and San Bernardino Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. Within the Plan Area, Plummer's mariposa lily is restricted to coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest and valley and foothill grasslands at elevations from 90 m to 1,610 m within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and San Bernardino Mountains least 167,580 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, montane coniferous forest, and woodland/forest between 90 and 1,610 m within the San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills and San Bernardino Mountain Bioregions). least eight of the known occurrences (near Hemet achieved by inclusion of at least 167,580 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and eight known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 64,630 acres (28 percent) of potential Habitat for Plummer's mariposa lily will not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Eight of the 17 known records of Plummer's mariposa lily will not be conserved. The historic locations near Banning (1926), two miles south of Calimesa (1978), in the Badlands None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Plummer's mariposa lily to the maximum extent practicable. FINAL MSHCP 9-132

133 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Bioregions. This plant is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. The Assessment indicates that it falls under the "site specific" category, which means that it is an organism requiring species-level Conservation action to ensure its persistence in the Plan Area. Within the Plan Area, the Plummer's mariposa lily is restricted to the eastern slopes and foothills of the San Jacinto and San Bernardino Mountains. The existing records are not believed to be indicative of the distribution of this species although the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. Lake within Garner Valley within the San Jacinto Mountains, the Jurupa Hills, Reche Canyon, along Highway 74 in the San Jacinto Mountains and west of Oak Glen Conservation Camp within the San Bernardino Mountains) of Plummer's mariposa lily. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm six localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) of at least 500 individuals each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). southwest of Beaumont (1932), along May Valley Road north of Highway 74 in the San Jacinto Mountains (1958) and at the head of Banning Canyon along the San Gorgonio River (1915) are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. It cannot be determined whether the populations reported from the Santa Ana Mountains along the border between Riverside and Orange counties (Roberts 1997; Roberts 1998) or at Lake Skinner (Bramlet 2001) are within or outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area. prostrate navarretia (Navarretia prostrata) 3 Prostrate navarretia is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and requirements for hydrology. This species occurs within coastal sage scrub, valley and foothill grassland (alkaline washes) and vernal pools between 15 and 700m. Only three occurrences of this species are known from three general locations within the Plan Area: the USGS 7.5 minute Perris, Murrieta and Wildomar quadrangles. This species is also known from the Santa Rosa Plateau. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for prostrate navarretia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Prostrate navarretia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. least the one known occurrence of this species on the Santa Rosa Plateau. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the watershed of the vernal pool complex on the Santa Rosa Plateau in order to maintain hydrologic conditions. s for prostrate navarretia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Prostrate navarretia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of suitable Conserved Habitat and the core locality and associated watershed within a large block of habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. No known populations of prostrate navarretia will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. However, suitable habitat for this species is present outside the MSHCP Conservation Area in ephemeral wetlands and mima mounds in forest glades and mountain areas. The level of potential Take in these areas outside the MSHCP Conservation Area cannot be determined at this time. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. FINAL MSHCP 9-133

134 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES prostrate spine flower (Chorizanthe procumbens) 2 Prostrate spine flower is designated as a Group 2 species because although this species has a fairly scattered distribution (Santa Ana Mountains, north slope of the Palomar Mountains, the Santa Rosa Plateau, Beaumont, French Valley, Winchester, the vicinity of Lake Elsinore, Moreno Valley, the Sedco Hills and the vicinity of Anza), the known occurrences are concentrated within the Santa Ana Mountains or along the north slope of the Palomar Mountains, primarily within U.S. Forest Service Lands. The Dorland Mountain population on the north slope of the Palomar Mountains in the Agua Tibia Wilderness Area is the only known core location of the species. Within the Plan Area, prostrate spine flower is found in sandy soil, often in association with sandy barrens and sandy openings in chamise chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and occasionally grasslands below 800 m within the Agua Tibia and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions. Most populations are concentrated in the Santa Ana Mountains or along the north slope of the Palomar Mountains (Reveal and Hardham 1989; Boyd, et al. 1992; Boyd and Banks 1995). The Lake Elsinore location probably represents a locality in the Santa Ana Mountains. The Beaumont, French Valley, Moreno Valley and Meadowbrook records appear to be outside of the known range of this species and are questionable. least 64,000 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, grassland and coastal sage scrub below 800 m within the Agua Tibia Mountains and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions). least 14 of the known locations (in the Santa Ana Mountains, in the Agua Tibia Mountains including the Core Area at Dorland Mountain, west of Beaumont, and the vicinity of French Valley). achieved by inclusion of at least 64,000 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 14 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. About 31,590 acres (33 percent) of potential Habitat for the prostrate spine flower would be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Seven of the mapped locations (including Moreno Valley, Meadowbrook, Lake Elsinore, Murrieta, two localities along Temecula Creek, and the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains) are located outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area; however, several of these occurrences are suspect and should be verified. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to prostrate spine flower to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for competition with non-native grasses. Rainbow manzanita (Arctostaphylos rainbowensis) 2 Rainbow manzanita is designated as a Group 2 species because of its specialized Habitat and soils requirements and scattered distribution within the southern portion of the Plan Area. This species is restricted to ultramafic southern mixed chaparral, principally on gabbro soils or related soils rich in ferro-magnesian minerals. Although it has a fairly scattered distribution within the Plan Area (San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, Gavilan Mountain, Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve, Santa Rosa Plateau, and the Temecula, Margarita Peak and Pechanga areas), the Santa Rosa Plateau is considered to be the Core Area. The distribution of Rainbow manzanita is fairly scattered but appears to be restricted to the eastern slopes of the Santa Ana Mountains and the northern slopes of the Agua Tibia Mountains, and therefore, the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term least 37,260 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral between 300 and 600 m within the Agua Tibia Wilderness Area, the San Mateo Wilderness Area and the Agua Tibia Mountains, Santa Ana Mountains and Riverside Lowlands Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the 15 known localities of Rainbow manzanita: San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, Gavilan Mountain, Santa Margarita Ecological MSHCP Conservation Area, Santa Rosa Plateau and the Temecula, Wildomar, Margarita Peak and Pechanga areas. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with more than 50 individuals achieved by inclusion of at least 37,260 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 15 known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the Santa Ana Mountains, the Agua Tibia Mountains and the vicinity of the Santa Rosa Plateau within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. All of the mapped Rainbow manzanita locations will be conserved (including the core Habitat area) within the MSHCP Conservation Area with the exception of the Temecula and Pechanga localities. A total of 29,920 acres (45 percent) of potential Habitat for Rainbow manzanita will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Temecula locality is an isolated location in an existing urbanized area and this area is not proposed to be conserved as part of the overall interconnected MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to Rainbow manzanita to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to maintaining the natural fire regime, farming activities and potential insect infestation. FINAL MSHCP 9-134

135 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Conservation of the species. However, due to the patchiness of the existing records, Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. each (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. round-leaved filaree (Erodium macrophyllum) 3 Round-leaved filaree is designated as a Group 3 species because of its specialized Habitat and soils requirements and somewhat limited distribution (from the Gavilan Hills southeast to the foothills of the Agua Tibia Mountains) within the Plan Area. This species is restricted to open cismontane woodland and valley and foothill grassland on clay soils between 15 and 1200 m. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for round-leaved filaree will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Round-leaved filaree located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. least 37,663 acres of suitable Habitat (grasslands and cismontane woodlands between 15 and 1,200 m within the Santa Ana Mountains and the Riverside Lowlands Bioregions). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area eight out of the 10 known localities of round-leaved filaree: four occurrences in the Gavilan Hills region, one at Lake Mathews, one along Temescal Wash near Lee Lake, one at Diamond Valley Lake and one in the foothills of the Agua Tibia Mountains. s for round-leaved filaree will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Round-leaved filaree located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 37,663 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and eight known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the Gavilan Hills, along Temescal Wash, at Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake and the foothills of the Agua Tibia Mountains within the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Two of the mapped round-leaved filaree locations will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area: one in French Valley and one in the Gavilan Hills. A total of 215,108 acres (85%) of potential Habitat for round-leaved filaree will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Murrieta locality is an isolated location in an existing urbanized area and this area is not proposed to be included in MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to non-native plant species. San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumila) 3 San Diego ambrosia is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution, and specialized Habitat and management requirements. Only three populations are known from Riverside County; all are located in the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion. The two largest populations occur in the vicinity of Alberhill. The first occurs both north and south of Nichols Road, west least 21,800 acres of suitable Habitat (grassland and playa/vernal pools between 200 and 500 m within the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion). least two of the three known locations of this achieved by inclusion of at least 21,800 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two Core localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to Approximately 52,010 (70 percent) acres of potential Habitat in the Plan Area will not be conserved, however, of this 8,940 acres will be subject to focused surveys for San Diego ambrosia and newly identified populations conserved in accordance Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will manage this species for competition from non-native species competition and trampling. FINAL MSHCP 9-135

136 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES of Interstate 15 and Alberhill Creek; the second is located east of Lake Street, immediately south of Interstate 15. A third, and smaller, population is found at Skunk Hollow, south of Tucalota Creek and east of San Diego Aqueduct 1, near Murietta Hot Springs. At the Alberhill and Nichols Road sites, San Diego ambrosia is found in ruderal Habitat and open non-native grassland on Garretson gravelly fine sandy loam soil. Both populations are within floodplain areas associated with Alberhill Creek. At Skunk Hollow, however, San Diego ambrosia occurs in non-native grassland a short distance west of the Skunk Hollow vernal pool. Here, the underlying soil is Las Posas loam. species: Alberhill Creek at Nichols Road and Skunk Hollow. s for the San Diego ambrosia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Diego ambrosia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume 1. guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. The third Core location (east of Lake Street in the City of Lake Elsinore) will be conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics Policy (Section 6.1.3). with the Narrow Endemics policy. Three records from the University of California, Riverside (UCR) GIS database will not be conserved (near Pechanga, south of Lake Mathews and near Murrieta); however, these occurrences are suspect and should be verified. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for San Diego ambrosia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Diego ambrosia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. San Diego button-celery (Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii) 3 San Diego button-celery is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for hydrology. Within the Plan Area, this species is restricted to vernal pools on the Santa Rosa Plateau. least four known locations on the Santa Rosa Plateau. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the watershed of the known locations on the Santa Rosa Plateau in order to maintain existing hydrologic conditions. achieved by inclusion of suitable Conserved Habitat (vernal pools on the Santa Rosa Plateau) and four known localities and associated watershed in the MSHCP Conservation Area. No known populations of San Diego button-celery will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Although no Take of known occurrences of button celery will occur as part of the MSHCP, certain areas located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area may contain vernal pool Habitat that could support this species. This Habitat type is not mapped as part of MSHCP database and therefore cannot be quantified as potential Habitat loss at this time. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain the watershed and hydrologic conditions of the known vernal pool complexes on the Santa Rosa Plateau. San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw (Galium angustifolium ssp. jacinticum) 3 San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw is designated as a Group 3 species because of its restriction to the San Jacinto Mountains and its need for site specific management and monitoring. Within the Plan Area, San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw is restricted to lower montane mixed forest and least 12,125 acres of suitable Habitat (montane coniferous forest between 1,280 to 1,980 m within the Narrow Edemic survey area of the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). achieved by inclusion of at least 12,125 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and eight known localities within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Approximately 8,545 acres (41 percent) of potential Habitat for San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw will not be conserved. One of the localities is within private in-holdings within the Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage this species for potential Habitat loss and possible genetic swamping. FINAL MSHCP 9-136

137 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES coniferous forest at elevations of 1,280 m to 1,980 m within the San Jacinto Mountains, primarily within USFS lands. San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw is endemic to the San Jacinto Mountains and has been reported southeast of Hemet, Cherry Valley, Lake Fulmor, Dark Canyon and the Black Mountain area. San Jacinto Mountain bedstraw is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for San Jacinto Mountain bedstraw will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Jacinto Mountain bedstraw located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. least eight of the known locations of this species: Lake Fulmor, Dark Canyon and the Black Mountain area. s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Jacinto Mountain bedstraw located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. San Jacinto Mountains and will not be conserved. It is important to note, however, that this potential Habitat and the mapped location are included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area and Conservation of this potential Habitat and known location will be addressed in accordance with the procedures presented in the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. San Jacinto Valley crownscale (Atriplex coronata var. notatior) 3 San Jacinto Valley crownscale is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. San Jacinto Valley crownscale occurs as 11 loosely-defined populations (comprising three Core Areas) that are primarily associated with Mystic Lake, the San Jacinto River and Salt Creek tributary drainages. One additional population is known to occur on Willows soils at Alberhill Creek near Lake Elsinore. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for San Jacinto Valley crownscale will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Alberhill Creek locality as well as the three Core Areas, located along the San Jacinto River from the vicinity of Mystic Lake southwest to the vicinity of Perris and in the upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet. s for the San Jacinto Valley crownscale will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the locality at Alberhill Creek near Lake Elsinore and the three core localities (Mystic Lake, the San Jacinto River and the upper Salt Creek drainage) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objectives 4 and 5 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for San Jacinto Valley crownscale will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-137

138 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Jacinto Valley crownscale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. MSHCP, Volume 1). San Jacinto Valley crownscale located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. San Miguel savory (Satureja chandleri) 3 San Miguel savory is designated as a Group 3 species because of its narrowly-defined geographic distribution and its specialized Habitat and soils requirements. This species is primarily restricted to rocky, gabbroic and metavolcanic substrates in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, riparian woodland, and valley and foothill grasslands (between 120 and 1,005 m). The majority of the populations/individuals are associated with the Santa Rosa Plateau and the Santa Ana Mountains. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for San Miguel savory will be conducted as part of the project review process for public least 201,450 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, cismontane forest, riparian woodland, and valley and foothill grassland between 120 and 1,005 m). least seven of the known locations of San Miguel savory on the Santa Rosa Plateau; in the vicinity of Tenaja guard station and three miles south of Murrieta near De Luz Road in the Santa Ana Mountains; and three miles southwest of Murrieta near Warner's Ranch. achieved by inclusion of at least 201,450 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and seven known localities (on the Santa Rosa Plateau and in the Santa Ana Mountains) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 224,550 (53 percent) of potential Habitat for San Miguel savory will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area, however, of this 27,760 acres will be subject to focused surveys for San Miguel savory and newly identified populations conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics policy. Within the CNDDB, four of the five mapped locations will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. These Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to San Jacinto Mountains bedstraw to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species for recreational activities. FINAL MSHCP 9-138

139 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Miguel savory located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. This species is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. s for San Miguel savory will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat and gabbro soils are present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). San Miguel savory located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. occurrences are all in the vicinity of the Santa Rosa Plateau. It should be noted that the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy will apply to locations outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Santa Ana River woollystar (Eriastrum densifolium ssp. sanctorum) 3 Santa Ana River woolly-star is designated as a Group 3 species because of its narrowly restricted geographic distribution, specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is restricted to open washes and early-successional alluvial fan scrub on open slopes above main watercourses on fluvial deposits where flooding and scouring occur at a frequency that allows the persistence of open shrublands. The Santa Ana River woolly-star has a narrowly restricted distribution within the Plan Area (Santa Ana River) and thus requires species-specific monitoring and management in order to ensure species persistence within the Plan Area. least 2,340 acres of suitable Habitat (Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub between 150 and 580 m in the Riverside Lowlands Bioregion). least three occurrences of this species along the Santa Ana River near the San Bernardino County border. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the Santa Ana River. Alluvial processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. achieved by inclusion of at least 2,340 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the known extant localities (four occurrences) with connectivity along the Santa Ana River in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 910 acres of potential Habitat in the Plan Area will not be conserved. The occurrence mapped at Limonite Avenue dates from 1986 and is likely not extant; this locality will not be conserved. No further Take is given for this species. None 8 Reserve Managers will manage the floodplain along the Santa Ana River in order to maintain alluvial processes that provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Specifically, manage the natural river bottom and banks, with a 500 foot buffer zone (e.g., alluvial terraces, riparian vegetation) of the Santa Ana River with a minimum of 0.5 mile upstream of the confluence of each of the tributaries to the Santa Ana River between the Riverside/San Bernardino County line and the Riverside/Orange County line. Tributaries include Sunnyslope Creek, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Arroyo Tequesquite, Anza Park Drain, Evans Lake Drain, Temescal Creek and Aliso Creek. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve existing water quality and flow levels in the Santa Ana River by the use and enforcement of current or better water quality standards and at a minimum maintenance of existing flows. shaggy-haired alumroot (Heuchera hirsutissima) 2 Shaggy-haired alumroot is designated as a Group 2 species. This species is restricted to the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, primarily within USFS and State Park lands. Within the Plan Area, shaggy-haired alumroot is known from rocky areas and granite crevices within upper-montane coniferous forest and subalpine coniferous forest at elevations of 1,815 m to 3,500 m within the San Bernardino National Forest and San Jacinto State Park in the San Jacinto Bioregion. Seventy-eight percent of the potential Habitat for this plant is contained within existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands. Most of the known occurrences of this species occur east of the Plan Area. Only two localities of shaggy-haired alumroot are least 7,760 acres of suitable Habitat (montane coniferous forest between 1,815 and 3,500 m in the San Jacinto Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the two known localities of this plant in the San Jacinto Mountains: one locality lies on the western slopes of the San Jacinto Mountains above the San Jacinto River and the other locality is in a gully behind Tahquitz Rock. achieved by inclusion of at least 7,760 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two known localities (three occurrences) within Public/Quasi-Public Lands within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 2,210 acres (22 percent) of potential Habitat for shaggy-haired alumroot will not be conserved. None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to shaggy-haired alum root to the maximum extent practicable. FINAL MSHCP 9-139

140 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES known within the Plan Area, both within the San Jacinto Mountains. One locality lies on the western slopes of the San Jacinto Mountains, above the San Jacinto River (UCR database). The other locality is in a gully behind Tahquitz Rock (CNDDB 2000). This plant is designated as a Forest Service Sensitive Species. The Assessment indicates that it falls under the "minimal influence" category, which means that it is affected minimally by public land management actions. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. slender-horned spine flower (Dodecahema leptoceras) 3 Slender-horned spine flower is designated as a Group 3 species because of its specialized Habitat requirements and limited distribution. This species is dependent on mature alluvial scrub that is maintained by periodic flooding and sediment transport and only occurs along Arroyo Seco and Kolb Creeks, Temescal Wash at Indian Creek, central Bautista Creek, Vail Lake and the upper San Jacinto River near Valle Vista and Hemet. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for slender-horned spine flower will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Slender-horned spine flower located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. least 8,350 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub between 200 and 700 m in the Vail Lake Narrow Endemic Species survey area and Agua Tibia Mountains Bioregion). least 11 of the known locations of this species, including Temescal Canyon, Bautista Canyon, upper San Jacinto River, Agua Tibia Wilderness Area, Alberhill, Alberhill Creek east of Lake Elsinore, Railroad Canyon, Vail Lake, Kolb Creek, and east of State Street south of Hemet. s for slender-horned spine flower will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Slender-horned spine flower located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 8,350 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 11 localities (15 occurrences) within large blocks of Habitat (Temescal Canyon, Bautista Canyon, upper San Jacinto River, Agua Tibia Wilderness Area, and Vail Lake) in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring, and implementation of Objective 4 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 2,950 acres of potential Habitat for the slender-horned spine flower in the Plan Area will not be conserved. However, approximately 2,290 acres outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area will be subject to focused surveys for slender-horned spine flower and newly identified populations conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics policy. Of the 27 UCR database and herbarium records, 12 of the occurrences will not be conserved (Gavilan Plateau, north of Meadowbrook, Temescal Canyon, Lake Elsinore, Valle Vista, Agua Tibia Mountains, El Cariso, and east of State Street south of Hemet). It should be noted that these localities will be conserved in accordance with the Narrow Endemics policy and the Riparian/ Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools Policy will apply to potential Habitat areas for this species outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing fluvial processes of Arroyo Seco and Kolb Creeks, Temescal Wash at Indian Creek, central Bautista Creek and the San Jacinto River. Particular management emphasis will be given to flood control measures, sand and gravel mining, trampling, off-road vehicle use, and competition from non-native plant species. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Arroyo Seco and Kolb Creeks, Temescal Wash at Indian Creek, central Bautista FINAL MSHCP 9-140

141 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Creek and the San Jacinto River upstream from Valle Vista. Alluvial processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. small-flowered microseris (Microseris douglasii var. platycarpha) 2 Small-flowered microseris is designated as a Group 2 species because it is known from several Core Areas and is restricted to particular soils series within the Plan Area. Although the species has a scattered distribution, locations appear to be concentrated in the western portion of the Plan Area. Small-flowered microseris is associated with perennial grasslands on clay lenses and on the periphery of vernal pools, typically below 1000 m. Within the Plan Area, populations are known from the Riverside Lowlands and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions, with a cluster of populations near Vail Lake in the San Jacinto Foothills Bioregion. Most (eight of the 12) of the records for this species are inside of the proposed MSHCP Conservation Area and the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration is expected to provide long-term Conservation of the species. However, the existing records are not believed to be indicative of the distribution of this species. Incidental Take of this species is not included in this permit until Conservation of the species in the Plan Area has been demonstrated by reaching Objective 3. least 45,290 acres of suitable Habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools below 1000 m within the Riverside Lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions), on at least 2,280 acres of clay soils (190 acres of Altamont, 450 acres of Auld, 600 acres of Bosanko, 100 acres of Claypit and 940 acres of Porterville soils). least eight of the known locations at Lake Matthews, in the Cleveland National Forest, at Lake Skinner and at Vail Lake. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm 10 localities (locality in this sense is not smaller than one quarter section) with at least 1,000 individuals (unless a smaller population has been demonstrated to be self-sustaining). achieved by inclusion of at least 45,290 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 23 known occurrences at Lake Mathews, Santa Ana Mountains in the Cleveland National Forest, Lake Skinner, Temescal Canyon, Vail Lake, Paloma Valley, French Valley, Cottonwood Canyon and Alberhill within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 94,380 acres of potential Habitat for small-flowered microseris and seven of the occurrences of the species would not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area, including those at Paloma Valley, Temescal Canyon, in the Santa Ana Mountains, the Gavilan Hills and Alberhill. None 8 Unknown. small-flowered morningglory (Convolvulus simulans) 2 Small-flowered morning-glory is designated as a Group 2 species because the species is known from several Core Areas and is restricted to particular soils series within the Plan Area. Although the species has a scattered distribution ( Lake Mathews, Alberhill, Santa Rosa Plateau, Murrieta Hot Springs, Vail Lake, Lake Skinner, East Hemet), populations appear to be concentrated in the vicinity of Vail Lake. Small-flowered morning-glory is associated with open sage scrub and grasslands in the Riverside Lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions where they occur on clay and cobbly clay soils below 1,000 feet (~325m) elevation. least 100,690 acres of suitable Habitat (coastal sage scrub and grasslands below 325 m in the Riverside Lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, and Santa Ana Mountains Bioregions), on at least 2,290 acres of clay soils (190 acres of Altamont, 450 acres of Auld, 600 acres of Bosanko, 100 acres of Claypit and 950 acres of Porterville soils). least eight of the known localities (including Vail Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Mathews, Temescal Canyon, Alberhill, Santa Rosa Plateau, Santa Ana Mountains, and Skunk Hollow) of this species. achieved by inclusion of at least 100,690 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and 13 known localities (33 occurrences) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 143,210 acres of potential Habitat for small-flowered morning-glory will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Several localities (nine occurrences) will not be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area: isolated populations at Alberhill, Homeland, near Hemet, Paloma Valley and Sun City. None 8 Unknown. FINAL MSHCP 9-141

142 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES smooth tarplant (Centromadia pungens) (formerly known as Hemizonia pungens ssp. laevis) 3 Smooth tarplant is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. Although this species has a scattered distribution (Salt Creek, along the San Jacinto River, Temecula Creek, Tres Cerrritos northwest of Hemet, Sycamore Canyon Park, Moreno Valley, Lake Skinner, Clinton Keith Road east of Deer Creek Development, and Potrero Creek near Beaumont), this species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for smooth tarplant will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Smooth tarplant located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. least 6,900 acres of suitable Habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least 27 of the known occurrences of this species at Antelope Valley; Temescal Canyon; Lake Elsinore; Murrieta Creek; French Valley; Lakeview Mountains; Lake Skinner; Diamond Valley Lake; Sycamore Canyon Park; Alberhill Creek; Lake Mathews; the Santa Ana River; and the core locations at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, the middle segment of the San Jacinto River and upper Salt Creek. s for the smooth tarplant will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Smooth tarplant located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the core localities (the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, the middle segment of the San Jacinto River and Salt Creek) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential habitat for smooth tarplant will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Thirty-nine of the occurrences in the UCR database and herbarium collections will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Twenty-five of the occurrences in the CNDDB database will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Localities not conserved include the occurrences in Hemet, Tres Cerritos, Murrieta, Moreno Valley, Mead Valley, south of Lake Elsinore, Glen Ivy, the City of San Jacinto, the upper reaches of the San Jacinto River and the four occurrences previously impacted at Diamond Valley Lake. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, and competition from non-native plant species. spreading navarretia (Navarretia fossalis) 3 Spreading navarretia is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. Eleven of the 14 populations are found in the alkali soils of three population complexes within the Upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet, and along the San Jacinto River extending from just west of Mystic Lake south to the Perris Valley Airport. Spreading navarretia has been reported on the Santa Rosa Plateau and at Skunk Hollow. least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least 13 of the known locations of spreading naverretia at the Skunk Hollow, the Santa Rosa Plateau and core locations: the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, floodplains of the San Jacinto River from the Ramona Expressway south to Railroad Canyon, and upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three core localities (alkali Habitats within the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, the floodplains of the San Jacinto River from Ramona Expressway south to Railroad Canyon and the upper Salt Creek drainage area west of Hemet) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 1,370 acres of potential Habitat for spreading navarretia will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is important to note, however, that this potential Habitat is included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-142

143 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for spreading navarretia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Spreading navarretia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume 1. s for the spreading navarretia will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Spreading navarretia located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. Implementation of Objectives 4 and 5 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. sticky-leaved dudleya (Dudleya viscida) 2 Sticky-leaved dudleya is designated as a Group 2 species because, in the Plan Area, it is restricted to coastal sage scrub and chaparral on mesic, mostly north-facing, and often steep, rocky canyon slopes within the Santa Ana Mountains. The undisputed known occurrences are concentrated within the San Mateo Wilderness Area of the Santa Ana Mountains within USFS Lands. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area 71,290 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral and coastal sage scrub within the Santa Ana Mountains Bioregion). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the three populations within the San Mateo Wilderness Area of the Santa Ana Mountains. achieved by inclusion of at least 71,290 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the three known localities (one Core Area) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Approximately 26,740 acres (27 percent) of potential Habitat for sticky-leaved dudleya would not be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. There is one known population cluster of this species in the San Mateo Wilderness. No known undisputed populations occur outside None 8 Reserve Managers will avoid or minimize adverse effects to sticky-leaved dudleya to the maximum extent practicable. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species where rock climbing is allowed or proposed. FINAL MSHCP 9-143

144 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES This species is designated as a Forest Sensitive Species which can be managed at the site-specific level. Forest Service Sensitive Species are protected through the implementation of Forest Plans and the biological evaluation (BE) process, which considers the potential effects of Forest Service activities on these species. the MSHCP Conservation Area. thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia) 3 Thread-leaved brodiaea is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. Twelve populations of thread-leaved brodiaea are known from western Riverside County along the San Jacinto River in Nuevo, Perris, and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area; on Salt Creek; on the Santa Rosa Plateau; and west of the Santa Rosa Plateau. These populations are primarily clustered into two complexes: one along the San Jacinto River near Perris and Lakeview, and the other on the Santa Rosa Plateau. The San Jacinto River floodplain supports about half of the remaining western Riverside County populations. A small population is known to occur in the Old Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet. This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for thread-leaved brodiaea will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Thread-leaved brodiaea located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. Objective 4: least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the Core Areas located at Goetz Road (EO1), Perris Valley airport (EO2), Tenaja Road (EO3), Mesa de Colorado (EO5), Hemet vernal pools (EO 26), South SJWA (EO27), Squaw Mountain (EO29), Santa Rosa ranch (EO30), Slaughterhouse (EO31), North SJWA (EO43) and Redondo Mesa (EO 52). s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects in the Criteria Area where suitable habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). This species located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and the 12 known localities (including both core locations) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for thread-leaved brodiaea will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Nine of the 18 occurrences will not be conserved in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-144

145 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Vail Lake ceanothus (Ceanothus ophiochilus) 3 Vail Lake ceanothus is designated as a Group 3 species because of its highly restricted geographic distribution within the Plan Area (specifically Vail Lake and the Agua Tibia Wilderness). This is a species on the Additional Needs and Procedures (Section 6.3.2) list and surveys for Vail Lake ceanothus will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Vail Lake ceanothus located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. least 13,290 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral in the vicinity of Vail Lake and the Agua Tibia Wilderness). least three core locations in the vicinity of Vail Lake and the Agua Tibia Wilderness area. s for this species will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Criteria Area where suitable Habitat is present (see Criteria Area Species Area Map, Figure 6-2 of the MSHCP, Volume I). This species located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I. achieved by inclusion of at least 13,290 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three known localities (representing 54 records) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 3,350 acres of potential Habitat for Vail Lake ceanothus will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. All of the known locations of this species will be conserved. Yes, see Section (Additional Needs and Procedures) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species for competition with non-native species, flood control activities and alteration of the natural fire regime. vernal barley (Hordeum intercedens) 2 Vernal barley is designated as a Group 2 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. Twelve populations of vernal barley are known from western Riverside County along the San Jacinto River in Nuevo, Perris, and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area; on Salt Creek; on the Santa Rosa Plateau; and west of the Santa Rosa Plateau. These populations are primarily clustered into two complexes: one along the San Jacinto River near Perris and Lakeview, and the other in the upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet. The San least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools within the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and Salt Creek portions of the MSHCP Conservation Area). least four locations (including three core locations) of vernal barley: the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, the middle segment of the San Jacinto River from Ramona Expressway south to Railroad Canyon, the achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and three core localities (middle segment of the San Jacinto River, the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and upper Salt Creek) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and Approximately 1,370 acres (17 percent) of potential Habitat for vernal barley will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. No known extant populations will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. None 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-145

146 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Jacinto River floodplain supports about half of the remaining western Riverside County populations. A small population is known to occur near Nichols Road at Alberhill. upper Salt Creek drainage west of Hemet, and the occurrence near Nichols Road at Alberhill. Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. monitoring. Implementation of Objective 4 for this species will maintain hydrological conditions in the floodplain along Salt Creek in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Wright s trichocoronis (Trichocoronis wrightii var. wrightii) 3 Wright's trichocoronis is designated as a Group 3 species because of its limited geographic distribution and specialized Habitat requirements and management requirements for floodplain processes. This species is primarily restricted to the alkali floodplains of the San Jacinto River in association with Willows, Domino and Traver soils. Wright's trichocoronis occurs as two core locations along the middle segment of the San Jacinto River and in the San Jacinto Wildlife Area. This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Wright's trichocoronis will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area least 6,900 acres of suitable habitat (grassland and playas and vernal pools including Willow, Domino and Traver soils, along the San Jacinto River, at Mystic Lake, and Salt Creek). least four of the known locations along the San Jacinto River from the vicinity of the Ramona Expressway and San Jacinto Wildlife Area and along the northern shore of Mystic Lake. s for Wright's trichocoronis will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable achieved by inclusion of at least 6,900 acres of suitable Conserved Habitat and two core localities (middle segment of the San Jacinto River and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area) within large blocks of Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 3 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Implementation of Objectives 4 and 5 for this species will maintain alluvial processes (floodplain hydrology and flooding) upon which this species depends. Approximately 1,370 acres of potential Habitat for Wright's trichocoronis will be outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is important to note that the potential Habitat occurring outside of the MSHCP Conservation Area is located within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area. None of the known populations will be located outside the MSHCP Conservation Area. Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and enhancing the floodplain processes of the San Jacinto River, Mystic Lake and upper Salt Creek, including intermittent flooding and periodic pooling. Particular management emphasis will be given to preventing alteration of hydrology and floodplain dynamics, farming, fire and fire suppression activities, off-road vehicle use, grazing and competition from non-native plant species. FINAL MSHCP 9-146

147 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Wright's trichocoronis located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Wright's trichocoronis located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. Objective 4: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along the San Jacinto River consistent with Objective 1. Floodplain processes will be maintained along the river in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. A potential future flood control project along the San Jacinto River designed and constructed consistent with the criteria for the San Jacinto River project presented in Section 7.0 of the MSHCP, Volume I and with the Area Plan Subunit guidelines for Subunit 1 of the Lakeview/Nuevo Area Plan and Subunit 4 of the Mead Valley Area Plan will be considered to be consistent with this objective. Objective 5: Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the floodplain along Salt Creek generally in its existing condition from Warren Road to Newport Road and the vernal pools in Upper Salt Creek west of Hemet. Floodplain processes will be maintained within the linkage in order to provide for the distribution of the species to shift over time as hydrologic conditions and seed bank sources change. Yucaipa onion (Allium marvinii) 3 Yucaipa onion is designated as a Group 3 species because of its specialized Habitat requirements and limited distribution. This species is dependent on clay openings within chaparral Habitat at elevations between 760 and 1065 m. The distribution of this species within the Plan Area is unknown at this time. Three historic occurrences date from 1904 to No recent occurrences have been positively identified within the Plan Area. least 1,200 acres of suitable Habitat (chaparral between 760 and 1065 m in the San Bernardino Mountains Bioregion). s for the Yucaipa onion will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species achieved by inclusion of at least 1,200 acres of suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The three historic occurrences may be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In addition, implementation of Objective 2 for this species will provide new data to guide Reserve Assembly, management and monitoring. Approximately 2,460 acres (67%) of potential Habitat will not be conserved. It is not known whether the three historic occurrences are included within the MSHCP Conservation Area. It is important to note, however, that this potential Habitat is included within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area and Conservation of this potential Habitat and three historic Yes, see Section (Protection of Narrow Endemic Plant Species) 8 Unknown. FINAL MSHCP 9-147

148 DESIGNATION RATIONALE FOR DESIGNATION SPECIES OBJECTIVES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES This is a species on the Narrow Endemic Plant List (Section 6.1.3) and surveys for Yucaipa onion will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area where suitable Habitat is present (see Narrow Endemic Plant Species Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Yucaipa onion located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. Area Map, Figure 6-1 of the MSHCP, Volume I). Yucaipa onion located as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.1.3, MSHCP, Volume I. occurrences, if still extant and not located in the MSHCP Conservation Area, will be addressed in accordance with the procedures presented in the Narrow Endemic Plant Species policy described in Section of the MSHCP, Volume I. FINAL MSHCP 9-148

149 FINAL MSHCP 9-149

150 FINAL MSHCP 9-150