Biological Report Beachcomber Drive APN: Morro Bay, CA Owner: Paul LaPlante Permit # Prepared by

Transcription

1 Biological Report 3093 Beachcomber Drive APN: Morro Bay, CA Owner: Paul LaPlante Permit #29586 Prepared by V. L. Holland, Ph.D. Plant and Restoration Ecology 1697 El Cerrito Ct. San Luis Obispo, CA Prepared for: John K Construction, Inc. 110 Day Street Nipomo, CA johnkconstruct@gmail.com and Paul LaPlante 1935 Beachcomber Drive Morro Bay, CA March 5, 2013

2 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... 3 INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE... 4 LOCATION AND PHYSICAL FEATURES FLORISTIC, VEGETATION, AND WILDLIFE INVENTORY METHODS RESULTS: FLORA AND VEGETATION ON SITE FLORA VEGETATION ANTHROPOGENIC (RUDERAL) COMMUNITIES COASTAL DUNE SCRUB SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES RESULTS: WILDLIFE ON SITE SPECIAL STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES CONCLUSION REFERENCES APPENDIX 1. LIST OF PLANT SPECIES APPENDIX 2 SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES APPENDIX 3. PHOTOS... 57

3 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The subject site (APN: ) is an undeveloped lot located at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA, which is in an existing residential development in northern Morro Bay, CA. The rectangular shaped lot, owned by Paul LaPlante, is approximately 135 feet by 60 feet or 8,100 sq. ft. in area. The lot fronts on Beachcomber Drive, which forms the its eastern boundary, and a residential lot with an existing home forms its southern boundary. The western and northern boundaries adjoin State Park land (Atascadero or Morro Strand State Beach); however, maps also identify a road, Driftwood Avenue, along the western boundary of the lot. Drs. V. L. Holland and/or David Keil conducted biological surveys of the site on January 30, February 10 and 22, and March 4, The subject lot has a very low species diversity. We only found a total of 16 plant species on the lot consisting of no trees, two shrubs (one native to the site) and 16 grasses and forbs (one native). Of the 16 species on the site, one is native and 15 are introduced. The lot is highly disturbed and is currently covered by anthropogenic (ruderal) vegetation consisting of thick patches of Carpobrotus edulis (ice plant) mixed with a diversity of invasive weedy plants. However, the northwestern portion of the lot extends to the edge of the coastal dune scrub vegetation that covers the stabilized dunes between the subject lot and Estero Bay. The owner, Paul LaPlante, is applying for a permit to construct a single-family home on the lot. A biological study of the lot is required to meet the City of Morro Bay Public Services Department permitting requirements. There are several factors that have greatly reduced the biological significance and wildlife habitat values of this lot. Residential development, paved roads, and heavy human usage of the area reduces wildlife values. The vegetation cover on the lot, which is composed of a large patch of ice plant and introduced, weedy grasses and forbs, does not provide suitable habitat for most wildlife species in this area. All of these factors reduce the biological value and wildlife habitats on the site. The coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot does provide valuable wildlife habitat for a number of species. However, the proposed development will not encroach into this habitat, and the coastal dune scrub near the western boundary of the lot will be fenced to assure no disturbances occur. While we do not believe the Morro blue butterfly or the shoulderband snail occur on or near the lot, we still recommend that the western boundary of the lot where the coastal dune scrub occurs be fenced to assure that the habitat of these species is protected. In addition, we recommend that the lot be searched again for shoulderband snails just prior to construction. If any are found, which we believe is highly unlikely, they should be carefully placed in appropriate habitats in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot.

4 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 4 INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE The subject site (APN: ) is an undeveloped lot located at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA, which is in an existing residential development in northern Morro Bay, CA (Figures 1 and 2; Photo 1). It is identified as Lot 1, Tract 1124, 12 MB 24, which is part of the Rancho Cayucos Land Grant, in Township 29 South, Range 12 East, Mt. Diablo Base Meridian. The rectangular shaped lot, owned by Paul LaPlante, is near the intersection of Beachcomber Drive and Hatteras Street. It is approximately 135 feet by 60 feet or 8,100 sq. ft. in area. The subject lot fronts on Beachcomber Drive, which forms the its eastern boundary, and adjoins a residential lot with an existing home along its southern boundary. The western and northern boundaries of the lot adjoin State Park land (Atascadero and Morro Strand State Beach); however, maps identify a road, Driftwood Avenue, along the western boundary of the lot (Figure 3). There is a trail approximately 80 feet north of the subject lot that provides access to the State Park lands and the beach along Estero Bay (Figure 2). There are existing homes on the lots along the west side of Beachcomber Drive across the street from the subject lot (Figure 2; Photo 2). The lot is highly disturbed and is currently covered by anthropogenic (ruderal) vegetation consisting of thick patches of Carpobrotus edulis (ice plant) mixed with a diversity of invasive weedy plants (Photos 1 to 3). Weedy plants (ruderal vegetation) also cover the State Park land along the northern boundary of the subject lot (Figure 6 and 7). The northwestern portion of the lot extends to the edge of the coastal dune scrub vegetation, which covers the stabilized dunes between the subject lot and Estero Bay (Photos 1, 4, and 5). The owner, Paul LaPlante, is applying for a permit to construct a single-family home on the lot. A biological study of the lot is required to meet the City of Morro Bay Public Services Department permitting requirements. Drs. V. L. Holland and/or David Keil conducted biological surveys of the site on January 30, February 10 and 22, and March 4, The results of these surveys are discussed in this report. The purpose of these surveys is to examine the existing flora, vegetation, and wildlife habitat on the parcel. Special attention is given to the presence or potential presence of rare and endangered species and sensitive habitats. During the analysis of the site, the entire lot and areas immediately around it were examined. These areas were carefully searched for the presence or potential presence of sensitive habitats and species of special concern known to occur in the Morro Bay north, and surrounding quadrangles (Table 4).

5 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 5 Figure 1. Vicinity map showing the general location of the subject lot on 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. (red square).

6 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 6 Figure 2. Aerial showing a closer view of the subject lot s location at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. and the surrounding residential subdivision that occurs in the areas to the north, south, and east of the lot. The lot adjoins State Park land along its northern and western boundaries. The shoreline of Estero By is approximately 1,000 feet west of the subject lot.

7 1 OVERHEAD ELEC, TEL, CTV Existing Building SEWER LINE GAS LINE GUY WATER LINE BARRACADE I E R VEYOR L A Hatteras Street BEACH Lot 13, Atas. Bch. BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 7 25' Driftwood Avenue N7 08'45"W 60.07' 2"IP W/ TAG RCE 6923 IN CONC PAD 1 FT BELOW GRADE EL ' 2"IP TAG MISSING IN CONC PAD 1 FT BELOW GRADE EL " WITNESS PIPE 17.1 Lot 12, Atas. Bch BLOCK 15A S82 53'16"W ' Lot 1, Tract 1124 Ave. Nat. Grade = 21.7 Area : 8079 sf NET N83 01'48"E ' BLOCK 15A CABLE RAILING SIGN "NO KITE FLYING" ACCESS Lot 9, Atas. Bch. Lot 16, Atas. Bch. 20' S7 07'43"E 59.73' Lot 11, Atas. Bch. Lot 14, Atas. Bch PATH ' P.U.E. PER 694 OR 396 6' WOOD FENCE BARRACADE 22.3 AC FL TC FL CONC CURB TC FL "IP W/ TAG RCE 6923 IN CONC PAD EL TC FL AC TC FL " WITNESS PIPE TC FL ROLL CURB & GUTTER " WITNESS PIPE JP TC FL AC 2"IP W TAG RCE 6923 IN CONC PAD EL TC FL 20' Beachcomber Drive LOCAL BENCH MARK, NAIL ELEV NGVD Lot 2, Tract ' BLOCK 14A T S T A L I C E N O F C A L F O R N L.S EXP. 9/30/2013 I A WI LL YE D I A M SE R. UR D ND S 1 TOPGRAPHIC & BOUNDARY SURVEY LOT 1, TRACT 1124 (12 MB 42) CITY OF MORRO BAY County of San Luis Obispo, California Figure 3. Shows the topography and location of subject lot on 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA as well as details of the areas immediately around the lot. Note that this map shows a road, Driftwood Avenue, along the western boundary of the lot. The owner will provide a larger version of this map.

8 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA Figure 4. Site Plan for the proposed single-family home located on the lot at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. The owner will provide a larger version of this map. 8

9 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA Figure 5. Proposed site plan for the lot at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. The proposed location of the home is shown in blue. The owner will provide a larger version of this map. 9

10 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 10 LOCATION AND PHYSICAL FEATURES Location The subject lot (Figures 1) is located in the northern portion of the City of Morro Bay at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. The lot fronts on Beachcomber Drive, which forms the its eastern boundary, adjoins a residential lot with an existing home along its southern boundary, and State Park lands along the lot s western and northern boundaries. Subdivision maps identify a road, Driftwood Avenue, along the western boundary of the lot (Figure 3). This road does not currently exist. The lot is approximately 980 feet (300 ) east of the Estero Bay shoreline, 870 feet (260 ) west of State Highway 1, 1.3 miles northwest of the Highway 41/Highway 1 intersection, 1.9 miles north of Morro Rock, and 3.4 miles southeast of Cayucos (Figure 1 and 2; Photo 1). Climate The general climate is classified as Subtropical Humid Mesothermal Cool-Summer Mediterranean (Csb) using the Köppen-Trewartha system (Trewartha and Horn 1983). Winter high temperatures average approximately 62 F and average low temperatures are near 43 F. Winter lows below 32 F are uncommon. Summer high temperatures average approximately 66 F, and average low temperatures are near 53 F. Summer highs above 90 F are not common but do occur sometimes even in January. The recent record high of 107 was recorded in October. Precipitation falls as rain, primarily from October through April, and averages approximately 17 inches per year. Less than one inch of precipitation is typically recorded from 1 May to 30 September, but overnight and morning fog with near 100% humidity are nor uncommon (Felton 1965). Physical Features The subject lot is mostly flat with a slight downward slope at the western end (a gradient of approximately 5 to 1). The elevation of the subject lot ranges from 23 feet above mean sea level along its eastern portion (Beachcomber Drive) to 16 feet at its northwest corner where it adjoins the coastal dune scrub on State Park land. Geologically, the northern portion of Morro Bay where this lot is located is considered to be part of the Franciscan formation melange with intrusive dacites; however, most of this formation on and around the subject lot has been historically covered by alluvial deposits of beach sands blowing inland from the Estero Bay shoreline. There was also likely some fill soils placed on the lot when the residential area was developed. The soils on the subject lot have weathered with time and now mostly consists of olive brown silty sand and dark gray brown clayey soils with gravel. These sandy soils are typically low in nutrients, have low water holding capacity, are excessively drained, and prone to wind erosion if not vegetated (Ernstrom 1977). A trail that provides beach access is approximately 80 feet north of the lot (Figure 6). An unnamed seasonal drainage is approximately 200 feet north of the subject lot. This small drainage flows from the east to the west and dissipates in the sandy beach along Estero Bay. Between the small drainage and the lot is State Park land with the trail.

11 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 11 Figure 6. Aerial view showing the approximate boundaries of 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay (outlined in black) and the distribution of ice plant along the western portion of the lot (outlined in white). The ice plant also extends along the back of the homes south of the subject lot. The boundary of the coastal dune scrub vegetation west of the subject lot is outlined in green. The eastern portion of the subject lot is covered by ruderal vegetation consisting of weedy grasses and forbs. The trail approximately 80 feet north of the lot provides access to the beach along Estero Bay. FLORISTIC, VEGETATION, AND WILDLIFE INVENTORY Methods Drs. V. L. Holland and/or David Keil conducted biological surveys of the site on January 30, February 10 and 22, and March 4, The results of these surveys are discussed in this report. The purpose of these surveys is to carefully examine the existing flora, vegetation, and wildlife habitats on the lot. Special attention is given to the presence or potential presence of rare and endangered species and sensitive habitats. During the analysis of the site, the entire lot and areas within approximately 100 feet of the lot were carefully searched for sensitive

12 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 12 habitats, and species of concern known to occur in the Morro Bay north and surrounding quadrangles (Table 4). All surveys were conducted during the day light hours between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. During this series of surveys, almost all plants were in identifiable condition using reproductive and/or vegetative features. This included all potential rare plants that were revealed during the nine quadrangles rare plant search (Table 4). Wildlife species observed or known to occur in the areas near the lot are listed (Table 10), and the site was carefully searched for any evidence of sensitive wildlife species that are listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Fish and Game, or are known to occur in the general vicinity of the site (Table 8). Consistent with recommended biological survey methodology, we carefully examined the site and areas immediately around the site using overlapping transects that zigzagged through the site. This sampling method allowed us to examine and describe variations in the vegetation, flora, and wildlife habitats shaped by slope differences, landform, soil, hydrology, and past disturbances. We recorded species presence and relative abundance with the goal of recording all plant species present on the site, including any rare plants. To accomplish this, we surveyed the site until no new species were found. While only repeated surveys conducted during all seasons, and even over a few years, provide an inventory nearing one hundred percent completeness, we are confident that the results of our studies provide an accurate and thorough inventory of the plants present on site, including any potential rare species known to occur in the general vicinity of the site (Table 4). References used to verify plant identifications include relevant floras (Baldwin, et al 2012 (The Jepson Manual); Hoover 1970; Smith 1998) and herbarium specimens housed at the Hoover Herbarium, Cal Poly State University. Nomenclature follows that of the Jepson Manual (Baldwin, et al, 2012) or on-line revisions that can be accessed on the following website ( RESULTS: FLORA AND VEGETATION ON SITE Flora The subject lot is highly disturbed and covered mostly by a large patch of Carpobrotus edulis (ice plant) and weedy herbaceous plants (Photos 1 to 3; Table 2); as a result, the species diversity on the lot is very low. Within the boundaries of the lot, we only found a total of 16 plant species consisting of no trees, two shrubs (one native to the site) and 16 grasses and forbs (one native). Of the 16 species on the site, one is native and 15 are introduced. Of the two shrubs, we include Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine), but it may actually be just outside the boundaries of the lot. These results are summarized in Table 1 on the next page and in Appendix 1.

13 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 13 Table 1. Summary of plants found within the boundaries of the lot located at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA Life form Total Native Introduced Trees Shrubs Herbs (Grasses and Forbs) TOTAL We also examined the vegetation immediately around the site (within at least an approximate 100 foot radius) to make sure no sensitive species occurred near the subject lot. The disturbed sites north of the subject lot are covered by the same weedy plant species that were found on the subject lot (Figure 6). However, west of the lot where the vegetation is relatively undisturbed, the stabilized sandy soils are covered mostly by native coastal dune scrub vegetation consisting of several native shrubs. We counted ten shrub species within approximately 100 feet of the subject lot, which are listed on Table 3. Vegetation Vegetation is shaped by the interactions among long-term climate, short-term weather events, local landforms, soils, hydrology, the physical tolerances of individual plant species, and land use or disturbance patterns by humans. Plant associations are spatially and temporally dynamic. Definitions and boundaries are relative and respond to the sharpness of the controlling environmental factors. The vegetation on the site is composed of anthropogenic (ruderal) vegetation composed almost entirely of ice plant and several introduced, weedy grasses and forbs. Only one native herbaceous species was found on the lot. However, the northwestern corner of the lot extends to the edge of the coastal dune scrub, which in this area is composed almost entirely of Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine). Silver lupine is a common component of the coastal dune scrub communities in the stabilized dunes east of Estero Bay (Figures 6 and 7; Photos 3 to 5). These communities also extend to the north and south of the subject lot. The ruderal community on the lot and the coastal dune scrub west of the lot are discussed below. 1. Anthropogenic (Ruderal) Communities Communities dominated by plants introduced by humans and established or maintained by human disturbance are anthropogenic communities. Some of these are entirely artificial communities such as landscaped areas, cultivated rowcrops, lawns, vineyards, etc. Such assemblages are classified under four broad categories: arval associations of cultivated lands, such as row crops; pastoral associations used or grown for consumption by grazing livestock; ruderal

14 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 14 associations of disturbed and fallow lands; and castral or urban associations of intentionally grown horticultural plants such as landscape plants around residences and businesses that often mix with native vegetation. Figure 7. Vegetation/Habitat Map: Aerial view showing the vegetation, approximate boundaries of the subject lot (black line), and approximate location of the proposed home (blue line) on 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. The dense patch of ice plant is outlined in white, the coastal dune scrub behind the lot is outlined in green, and the ruderal communities are outlined in orange The subject lot is covered by ruderal vegetation; however, it adjoins the coastal dune scrub in the northwestern corner of the site. A large patch of Carpobrotus edulis (Ice plant) covers the entire back (western) half of the subject lot (Figure 7; Photos 2 to 5). Ruderal communities are assemblages of invasive, weedy grasses and forbs that have colonized the disturbed areas of the lot and areas to the north of the lot, sometimes in spite of human efforts to control them. Ruderal communities, such as those on the subject site, occur in highly and often regularly disturbed areas such as roadsides, vacant lots, lots cleared for weed abatement, and other such disturbed areas. Often only plants capable of withstanding regular disturbances are able to grow in disturbed ruderal communities. Ice plant may have been planted on the lot or may have spread onto the lot from surrounding areas. Once established, ice plant can spread rapidly vegetatively and completely dominate the areas on which it grows.

15 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 15 The common ruderal plant species on and around the subject lot are listed in Table 2 and Appendix 1. Table 2. List of plant species identified on the subject lot and on the disturbed areas around the lot (3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, California) Scientific Name Common name ** Atriplex lentiformis Lens-scale saltbush * Avena fatua Common wild oats * Beta vulgaris Beet * Bromus diandrus Ripgut brome * Carpobrotus edulis Ice plant Distichlis spicata Salt grass * Festuca perennis Ryegrass * Malva parviflora Cheeseweed * Medicago polymorpha Bur-clover * Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda-buttercup * Plantago coronopus English plantain * Plantago lanceolata English plantain * Raphanus sativus Wild radish * Rumex crispus Curly dock * Sonchus oleraceus Common sow-thistle * Vicia sativa Common vetch * Exotic species, not native to California. **California native but escaped from cultivation where growing wild in Morro Bay area. 2. Coastal Dune Scrub We discuss the coastal dune scrub community in this report because the lot adjoins this community along the site s northwestern corner (Figure 7; Photo 5). Coastal dune scrub communities are generally located inland from the beach and foredune communities. Near the subject lot, this community covers a long strip of stabilized dunes east of Estero Bay (Photo 3). Because coastal dune scrub communiites are usually located in the wind-shadow of the foredunes or in areas away from the immediate coast, and because they have a well-developed vegetative cover, dune scrub communities have soils which are considerably more stable than those of the beach and foredune communities. The coastal dune scrub varies in species composition and structure from place to place. However, the vegetation in this community is composed of a relatively continuous cover of low to medium shrubs (usually less than one meter tall), subshrubs and herbs. The density of shrubs vary from dense to somewhat open. The shrubs common to this plant community undergo significant dieback during the summer drought and are often referred to as summer deciduous. It is a variable community, and species composition is dependent on several environmental variables. These include the proximity to the ocean, the amount and exposure to the wind, the direction and steepness of sloping terrain, the time that succession has been taking place, the amount and type of disturbance that has taken place in the past, and the degree of soil development.

16 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 16 A significant portion of the area inland from Estero Bay is covered by dense to open coastal dune scrub. In some places, the shrubs are so dense that it is very difficult to walk through them. These areas have a relatively sparse understory of various herbs and subshrubs. In other areas, the coastal dune scrub is more open and has a more developed understory. Where the dune scrub comes in contact with disturbed sites, ruderal vegetation often penetrates the edge of this community. The areas west of the subject lot are covered mostly by coastal dune scrub composed of a diversity of species including Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine), (Figures 6 and 7; Photo 1). However, the area immediately next to the northwestern corner of the lot is covered almost entirely by silver lupine, many of which were dead during the time of our surveys (Figure 7; Photos 4 and 5). This is not uncommon as silver lupine is a short-lived shrub that often colonizes open, less stable areas in the coastal dune scrub. Usually other coastal dune scrub species successionally replace the silver lupine after it dies. As part of our survey, we examined the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot even though it will not be disturbed by this project. Table 3 lists the native shrubs found in the coastal dune scrub near the subject lot. Table 3. List of native shrubs found in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA. Scientific Name Common name Artemisia californica Baccharis pilularis Ericameria ericoides Eriogonum parvifolium Eriophyllum staechadifolium Isocoma menziesii Lupinus chamissonis Mimulus aurantiacus Salvia mellifera Senecio blochmaniae California sagebrush Coyote bush Mock-heather Coastal buckwheat Coastal golden-yarrow Coastal goldenbush Silver lupine Bush monkeyflower Black sage Blochman's ragwort SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES To determine the rare plant species that could potentially be present on the project site, we conducted a search for target rare plants known to occur within the Morro Bay North (247A), Morro Bay South (247D), Cypress Mountain (270C), York Mountain (270D), Atascadero (246B), San Luis Obispo (246C), Templeton (269C), Cayucos (247B), Port San Luis (222A), and Pismo Beach (221B) Quadrangles (Table 1). To generate this list, we referred to the most recent 2013 edition of the California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Data Base: Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichen List (CNDDB) and the most recent edition of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California database, both of which are

17 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 17 accessible through the internet ( and This search revealed several special status plant species that occur within the quadrangles surrounding the study site (Table 4). However, most of the rare plants on the list are not expected on the subject lot because they are highly restricted both in distribution range and in habitat requirements. For example, some species are restricted to specific parent materials such as serpentinite, shale, active sand dunes, or sea bluffs. Others are restricted to wetland or vernal pool areas. None of these habitats are on the project site. Table 6 provides an evaluation of preferred habitats of these rare plants and an evaluation of whether potential habitats occur on the study site. Table 5 provides information about the rare plants such as life form, flowering period, and elevation range. Drs. V. L. Holland and/or David Keil conducted biological surveys of the site on January 30, February 10 and 22, and March 4, 2013, during the day light hours to examine the flora, vegetation, and wildlife of the subject site and surrounding areas to determine if any rare species or sensitive habitats are present. During the time of these surveys, the plants, including potential rare plants, could be identified using reproductive and/or vegetative features. Table 4. List of Special Status Plants Found in the Morro Bay North (247A), Morro Bay South (247D), Cypress Mountain (270C), York Mountain (270D), Atascadero (246B), San Luis Obispo (246C), Templeton (269C), Cayucos (247B), Port San Luis (222A), and Pismo Beach (221B) Quadrangles. Current Rarity Status is also included. CNPS State State Federal Global R-E-D Scientific Name Common Name List Status Rank Status Rank Agrostis hooveri Hoover's bent grass 1B None S2.2 None G2 Arctostaphylos cruzensis Arroyo de la Cruz manzanita 1B None S2.2 None G2 Arctostaphylos luciana Santa Lucia manzanita 1B None S2.2 None G2 Arctostaphylos morroensis Morro manzanita 1B None S2 FT G2 Arctostaphylos osoensis Oso manzanita 1B None S1.2 None G1 Arctostaphylos pechoensis Pecho manzanita 1B None S2.2 None G2 Arctostaphylos pilosula Santa Margarita manzanita 1B None S3 None G3 Arctostaphylos tomentosa ssp. daciticola Dacite manzanita 1B None S1.1 None G4T1 Arenaria paludicola Marsh sandwort 1B CE S1 FE G1 Astragalus didymocarpus var. milesianus Miles' milk-vetch 1B None S2.2 None G5T2 Atriplex coulteri Coulter's saltbush 1B None S2 None G2 Atriplex joaquinana San Joaquin spearscale 1B.2 None S2 None G2 California macrophylla Round-leaved filaree 1B.1 None S2 None G2 Calochortus obispoensis San Luis mariposa lily 1B None S2.1 None G2 Calochortus simulans La Panza mariposa lily 1B None S2.3 None G2 Calycadenia villosa Dwarf calycadenia 1B None S2.1 None G2 Camissoniopsis hardhamiae Hardham's eveningprimrose 1B.2 None S1 None G1Q Carex obispoensis San Luis Obispo sedge 1B None S2.2 None G2 Castilleja densiflora ssp. San Luis Obispo owl'sclover obispoensis 1B None S2.2 None G5T2 Caulanthus lemmonii Lemmon's jewel flower 1B.2 None S2.2 None G2 Centromadia parryi ssp. congdonii Congdon's tarplant 1B None S2 None G4T2 Centromadia parryi ssp. parryi Pappose tarplant 1B None S1 None G4T1 Continued

18 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 18 CNPS State State Federal Global R-E-D Scientific Name Common Name List Status Rank Status Rank Chenopodium littoreum Coastal goosefoot 1B.2 None S2 None G2 Chlorogalum pomeridianum var. minus Dwarf soaproot 1B None S2 None G5T2 Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum Salt marsh bird's-beak 1B.2 CE S1 FE G4? T1 Chorizanthe breweri Brewer's spineflower 1B None S2.2 None G2 Chorizanthe rectispina Straight-awned spineflower 1B None S1.2 None G1 Cirsium fontinale var. obispoense San Luis Obispo fountain thistle 1B CE S2 FE G2T2 Cirsium occidentale var. G3G4T 1B None S2.1 None compactum Compact cobwebby thistle 2 Cirsium occidentale var. lucianum G3G4T 1B.2 None S2 None Cuesta Ridge thistle 2 Cirsium rhothophilum Surf thistle 1B CT S1 None G1 Cirsium scariosum var. loncholepis La Graciosa thistle 1B.1 CT S1 FE G5T1 Clarkia speciosa ssp. immaculata Pismo clarkia 1B CR S1 FE G4T1 Delphinium parryi ssp. eastwoodiae Eastwood s larkspur 1B.2 None S2 None G4T2 Delphinium umbraculorum S2S3. 1B None Umbrella larkspur 3 None G2G3 Dithyrea maritima Beach spectaclepod 1B CT S2.1 None G2 Dudleya abramsii ssp. bettinae Betty's dudleya 1B None S1.2 None G3T1 Dudleya abramsii ssp. murina Mouse-gray dudleya 1B None S2.3 None G3T2 Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. blochmaniae Blochman's dudleya 1B None S2.1 None G2T2 Eriastrum luteum Yellow-flowered eriastrum 1B None S2.2 None G2 Erigeron blochmaniae Blochman's leafy daisy 1B None S2.2 None G2 Eriodictyon altissimum Indian Knob mountainbalm 1B CE S1 FE G1 Eryngium aristulatum var. hooveri Hoover's button-celery 1B None S2.1 None G5T2 Fritillaria ojaiensis Ojai fritillary 1B None S2 None G2 Fritillaria viridea San Benito fritillary 1B None S2 None G2 Galium hardhamiae Hardham's bedstraw 1B None S2.3 None G2 Grindelia hirsutula var. maritima San Francisco gumplant None S1 None G5T1Q Horkelia cuneata var. puberula Mesa horkelia 1B.1 None S2.1 None G4T2 Horkelia cuneata var. sericea Kellogg's horkelia 1B.1 None S1.1 None G4T1 Juncus luciensis Santa Lucia dwarf rush 1B.2 None S2S3 None G2G3 Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Coulter's goldfields 1B None S2.1 None G4T3 Layia jonesii Jones' layia 1B None S1.1 None G1 Lupinus ludovicianus San Luis Obispo County lupine 1B None S2.2 None G2 Malacothamnus palmeri var. involucratus Carmel Valley bush-mallow 1B None S2.2 None G3T2Q Malacothamnus palmeri var. palmeri Santa Lucia bush-mallow 1B None S2.2 None G3T2Q Monardella frutescens San Luis Obispo monardella 1B None S2.2 None G2 Monardella palmeri Palmer's monardella 1B None S2.2 None G2 Monolopia gracilens Woodland woolythreads 1B.2 None S2S3 None G2G3 Navarretia nigelliformis ssp. radians Shining navarretia 1B None S2 None G4T2 Plagiobothrys uncinatus Hooked popcorn-flower 1B None S2.2 None G2 Poa diaboli Diablo Canyon blue grass 1B None S1.2 None G1 Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum S2S None White rabbit-tobacco 2 None G4 Sanicula maritima Adobe sanicle 1B CR S2.2 None G2 Scrophularia atrata Black-flowered figwort 1B None S2.2 None G2 Senecio aphanactis Chaparral ragwort None S1.2 None G3? Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. anomala Cuesta Pass checkerbloom 1B CR S1 None G3T1 Streptanthus albidus ssp. peramoenus Most beautiful jewel-flower 1B None S2.2 None G2T2 Suaeda californica California seablite 1B None S1 FE G1 Trifolium hydrophilum Saline clover 1B.2 None S2 None G2 Triteleia ixioides ssp. cookii Cook's triteleia 1B None S2.3 None G5T2 Key to numbers and symbols used in Table 1 are listed on the next pages

19 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 19 California Native Plant Society List 1 Plants of Highest Priority (2 sublists): 1A Plants Presumed Extinct in California 1B Plants Rare and Endangered in California and Elsewhere List 2 Plants Rare or Endangered in California, but More Common Elsewhere List 3 Plants about which More Information is needed List 4 Plants of Limited Distribution (A Watch List) Threat Code Extensions to CNPS Rankings (e.g. List 1B.1).1 - Seriously endangered in California.2 Fairly endangered in California.3 Not very endangered in California R (Rarity) 1. Rare but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the potential for extinction or extirpation is low at this time 2. Distributed in a limited number of occurrences, occasionally more if each occurrence is small 3. Distributed in one to several highly restricted occurrences, or present in such small numbers that it is seldom reported E (Endangerment) 1. Not endangered 2. Endangered in a portion of its range 3. Endangered throughout its range D (Distribution) 1. More or less widespread outside California 2. Rare outside California 3. Endemic to California California Dept of Fish & Game Endangered Species (CE) Plant taxa whose prospects for survival are in immediate jeopardy from one or more causes Threatened Species (CT) Plant taxa not presently threatened with extinction, but likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future in the absence of special protection and management efforts Rare Species (CR) Plant taxa not presently threatened with extinction, but occurring in such small numbers throughout its range that they may become endangered if habitat conditions worsen STATE RANKIING S1 = Less than 6 EOs or less than 1,000 individuals or less than 2,000 acres S2 = 6-20 EOs or 1,000 3,000 individuals or 2,000 10,000 acres S3 = EOs or 3,000-10,000 individuals or 10,000-50,000 acres S4 = Apparently secure in California No threat rank S5 = Demonstrably secure in California No threat rank Number following S ranks: 1 Very threatened 2 Threatened 3 No current threats U. S. Dept of Fish and Wildlife Endangered Species (FE) Taxa in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range Threatened Species (FT) Taxa likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of their range Candidate Species (C) Taxa for which the Service has on file enough substantial information on biological vulnerability and threat(s) to support proposals to list them as endangered or threatened species, but such action has been delayed by other listing activity Continued

20 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 20 Global Ranking GX Presumed Extinct Believed to be extinct throughout its range. Not located despite intensive searches of historical sites and other appropriate habitat, and virtually no likelihood that it will be rediscovered. G1 Critically Imperiled Critically imperiled globally because of extreme rarity or because of some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extinction. Typically 5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining individuals (<1,000) or acres (<2,000) or linear miles (<10). G2 Imperiled Imperiled globally because of rarity or because of some factor(s) making it very vulnerable to extinction or elimination. Typically 6 to 20 occurrences or few remaining individuals (1,000 to 3,000) or acres (2,000 to 10,000) or linear miles (10 to 50). G3 Vulnerable Vulnerable globally either because very rare and local throughout its range, found only in a restricted range (even if abundant at some locations), or because of other factors making it vulnerable to extinction or elimination. Typically 21 to 100 occurrences or between 3,000 and 10,000 individuals. G4 Apparently Secure Uncommon but not rare (although it may be rare in parts of its range, particularly on the periphery), and usually widespread. Apparently not vulnerable in most of its range, but possibly cause for long-term concern. Typically more than 100 occurrences and more than 10,000 individuals. GH Possibly Extinct Known from only historical occurrences, but may nevertheless still is extant; further searching needed. G5 Secure Common, widespread, and abundant (although it may be rare in parts of its range, particularly on the periphery). Not vulnerable in most of its range. Typically with considerably more than 100 occurrences and more than 10,000 individuals. T# Infraspecific Taxon (trinomial) The status of infraspecific taxa (subspecies or varieties) are indicated by a "T-rank" following the species' global rank. Rules for assigning T-ranks follow the same principles outlined above. For example, the global rank of a critically imperiled subspecies of an otherwise widespread and common species would be G5T1.

21 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 21 Table 5. List of Special Status Plants Found in the Morro Bay North (247A), Morro Bay South (247D), Cypress Mountain (270C), York Mountain (270D), Atascadero (246B), San Luis Obispo (246C), Templeton (269C), Cayucos (247B), Port San Luis (222A), and Pismo Beach (221B) Quadrangles along with life form, flowering period, habitats, and elevation range. Flower Scientific Name Life Form Habitats and Communities Elevation Period Agrostis hooveri Perennial herb Apr-Jul Arctostaphylos cruzensis Arctostaphylos luciana Arctostaphylos morroensis Arctostaphylos osoensis Arctostaphylos pechoensis Arctostaphylos pilosula Arctostaphylos tomentosa ssp. daciticola Arenaria paludicola Astragalus didymocarpus var. milesianus Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial evergreen shrub Perennial stoloniferous herb Dec-Mar Dec-Mar Dec-Mar Feb-Mar Nov-Mar Dec-May Mar-May May-Aug Atriplex coulteri Perennial herb Mar-Oct Atriplex joaquinana Annual herb Apr-Oct California macrophylla Annual herb Mar-May Calochortus obispoensis Calochortus simulans Continued Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/usually sandy Broad-leafed upland forest (BUFrs) Coastal bluff scrub (CBScr) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/sandy Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/shale (maritime) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal dunes (CoDns)(pre-Flandrian) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/Baywood fine sand Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/dacite porphyry buttes Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/siliceous shale Broad-leafed upland forest (BUFrs) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/Sometimes sandstone. Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/dacite porphyry buttes Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(freshwater or brackish)/sandy, openings Annual herb Mar-Jun Coastal scrub (CoScr)(clay) Perennial bulbiferous herb Perennial bulbiferous herb May-Jul Apr-Jun Coastal bluff scrub (CBScr) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/alkaline or clay Chenopod scrub (ChScr) Meadows and seeps (Medws) Playas (Plyas) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/alkaline Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/clay Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/often serpentinite Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Lower montane coniferous forest (LCFrs) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/sandy, often granitic, sometimes serpentinite

22 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 22 Scientific Name Life Form Flower Period Calycadenia villosa Annual herb May-Oct Camissoniopsis hardhamiae Annual herb Mar-May Carex obispoensis Castilleja densiflora ssp. obispoensis Perennial rhizomatous herb Annual herb Apr-Jun Mar-May Caulanthus lemmonii Annual herb Mar-May Centromadia parryi ssp. congdonii Centromadia parryi ssp. parryi Annual herb May-Nov Habitats and Communities Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Meadows and seeps (Medws) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/rocky, fine soils Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/sandy, decomposed carbonate, disturbed or burned areas Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Coastal prairie (CoPrr) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/often serpentinite seeps, sometimes gabbro; often on clay soils Meadows and seeps (Medws) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/sometimes serpentinite Pinyon and juniper woodland (PJWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs) Annual herb May-Nov Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)(alkaline) Coastal prairie (CoPrr) Meadows and seeps (Medws) Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(coastal salt) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)(vernally mesic)/often alkaline Chenopodium littoreum Annual herb Apr-Aug Coastal dunes (CoDns) Chlorogalum pomeridianum var. minus Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum Perennial bulbiferous herb Annual herb hemiparasitic May-Aug May-Oct Chorizanthe breweri Annual herb Apr-Aug Chorizanthe rectispina Annual herb Apr-Jul Cirsium fontinale var. obispoense Cirsium occidentale var. compactum Cirsium occidentale var. lucianum Perennial herb Perennial herb Perennial herb Feb-Sep. Apr-Jun Apr-Jun Cirsium rhothophilum Perennial herb Apr-Jun Cirsium scariosum var. loncholepis Perennial herb May-Aug (serpentinite) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(coastal salt) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/serpentinite, rocky or gravelly Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/serpentinite seeps, drainages Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal prairie (CoPrr) Coastal scrub (CoScr) (openings)/serpentinite. Often steep rocky slopes and disturbed roadsides. Coastal bluff scrub (CBScr) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(brackish) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/mesic, sandy Elevation Continued

23 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 23 Scientific Name Clarkia speciosa ssp. immaculata Delphinium parryi ssp. eastwoodiae Life Form Annual herb Perennial herb Flower Period May-Jul Feb-Mar Habitats and Communities (margins, openings) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/sandy (openings) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/Serpentinite, coastal Delphinium umbraculorum Perennial herb Apr-Jun Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Dithyrea maritima Perennial rhizomatous herb Mar-May Dudleya abramsii ssp. bettinae Perennial herb May-Jul Dudleya abramsii ssp. murina Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. blochmaniae Perennial leaf succulent Perennial herb May-Jun Apr-Jun Eriastrum luteum Annual herb May-Jun Erigeron blochmaniae Eriodictyon altissimum Eryngium aristulatum var. hooveri Fritillaria ojaiensis Fritillaria viridea Perennial rhizomatous herb Perennial evergreen shrub Annual/perennial herb Perennial bulbiferous herb Perennial bulbiferous herb Jun-Aug Mar-Jun Jul-Aug Feb-May Mar-May Galium hardhamiae Perennial herb Apr-Oct Grindelia hirsutula var. maritima Perennial herb Jun-Sep Horkelia cuneata var. puberula Perennial herb Feb-Sep. Horkelia cuneata var. sericea Perennial herb Apr-Sep Juncus luciensis Annual herb Apr-Jul Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr)(sandy) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/serpentinite, rocky Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/serpentinite Coastal bluff scrub (CBScr) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/rocky, often clay or serpentinite Broad-leafed upland forest (BUFrs) Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/sandy or gravelly Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr) (maritime) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/sandstone Vernal pools (VnPls) Broad-leafed upland forest (BUFrs)(mesic) Lower montane coniferous forest (LCFrs)/rocky (serpentinite) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) /serpentinite Coastal bluff scrub (CBScr) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/sandy or serpentinite (maritime) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/sandy or gravelly Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) (maritime) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/sandy or gravelly, openings Great Basin scrub (GBScr) Lower montane coniferous forest (LCFrs) Meadows and seeps (Medws) Vernal pools (VnPls) Elevation Continued

24 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 24 Scientific Name Life Form Flower Period Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Annual herb Feb-Jun Layia jonesii Annual herb Mar-May Lupinus ludovicianus Perennial herb Apr-Jul Malacothamnus palmeri var. involucratus Malacothamnus palmeri var. palmeri Monardella frutescens Monardella palmeri Perennial deciduous shrub Perennial deciduous shrub Perennial rhizomatous herb Perennial rhizomatous herb May-Oct. May-Jul May-Sep Jun-Aug Monolopia gracilens Annual herb Feb-Jul. Navarretia nigelliformis ssp. radians Annual herb Apr-Jul Plagiobothrys uncinatus Annual herb Apr-May Poa diaboli Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum Perennial rhizomatous herb Perennial herb Mar-Apr Jul-Dec. Sanicula maritima Perennial herb Feb-May Scrophularia atrata Perennial herb Mar-Jul Senecio aphanactis Annual herb Jan-Apr Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. anomala Streptanthus albidus ssp. peramoenus Perennial herb Annual herb May-Jun Mar-Oct. Habitats and Communities Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(coastal salt) Playas (Plyas) Vernal pools (VnPls) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/clay or serpentinite Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/sandstone or sandy Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr) (rocky) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr)(sandy) Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/serpentinite Broad-leafed upland forest (BUFrs)(openings) (openings) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) North Coast coniferous forest (NCFrs)(openings) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/Serpentine Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs) Vernal pools (VnPls) (sandy) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) (mesic) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/shale; sometimes burned areas Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Riparian woodland (RpWld)/sandy, gravelly Coastal prairie (CoPrr) Meadows and seeps (Medws) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/clay, serpentinite Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Coastal dunes (CoDns) Coastal scrub (CoScr) Riparian scrub (RpScr) Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Coastal scrub (CoScr)/sometimes alkaline Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) /rocky, serpentinite Cismontane woodland (CmWld) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)/serpentinite Elevation Continued

25 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 25 Scientific Name Suaeda californica Life Form Perennial evergreen shrub Flower Period Jul-Oct Trifolium hydrophilum Annual herb Apr-Jun Triteleia ixioides ssp. cookii Perennial bulbiferous herb May-Jun Habitats and Communities Marshes and swamps (MshSw)(coastal salt) Marshes and swamps (MshSw) Valley and foothill grassland (VFGrs)(mesic, alkaline) Vernal pools (VnPls) Closed-cone coniferous forest (CCFrs) Cismontane woodland (CmWld)/serpentinite seeps Elevation Table 6. Habitat Requirements of the Special Status Plants Found in the San Luis Obispo (246C), Arroyo Grande NE (221A), Pismo Beach (221B), Morro Bay South (247D), Morro Bay North (247A), Port San Luis (222A), Lopez Mountain (246D), Santa Margarita (246A), and Atascadero (246B) Quadrangles along with Preferred Habitats and whether Potential Habitats Occur on the Study Site. Habitat on Scientific Name Natural Habitats and Communities Site? Agrostis hooveri Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland/usually sandy Arctostaphylos cruzensis Broad-leafed upland forest, Coastal bluff scrub, Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/sandy Arctostaphylos luciana Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/shale Arctostaphylos morroensis Chaparral (maritime), Cismontane woodland, Coastal dunes (pre- Flandrian), Coastal scrub/baywood fine sand Arctostaphylos osoensis Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/dacite porphyry buttes Arctostaphylos pechoensis Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Coastal scrub/siliceous shale Arctostaphylos pilosula Broad-leafed upland forest, Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/sometimes sandstone. Arctostaphylos tomentosa ssp. daciticola Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/dacite porphyry buttes Arenaria paludicola Marshes and swamps (freshwater or brackish)/sandy, openings Potentially but Astragalus didymocarpus var. milesianus Coastal scrub (clay) Atriplex coulteri Coastal bluff scrub, Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/alkaline or clay Atriplex joaquinana Chenopod scrub, Meadows and seeps, Playas, Valley and foothill grassland/alkaline California macrophylla Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland/clay Calochortus obispoensis Chaparral, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/often serpentinite Calochortus simulans Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Lower montane coniferous forest, Valley and foothill grassland/sandy, often granitic, sometimes serpentinite Calycadenia villosa Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Meadows and seeps, Valley and foothill grassland/rocky, fine soils Camissoniopsis hardhamiae Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/sandy, decomposed carbonate, disturbed or burned areas Carex obispoensis Castilleja densiflora ssp. obispoensis Caulanthus lemmonii Continued Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Coastal prairie, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/often serpentinite seeps, sometimes gabbro; often on clay soils Meadows and seeps, Valley and foothill grassland/sometimes serpentinite Pinyon and juniper woodland, Valley and foothill grassland Potential but no habitat or out of range Potential but

26 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 26 Scientific Name Centromadia parryi ssp. congdonii Centromadia parryi ssp. parryi Chenopodium littoreum Chlorogalum pomeridianum var. minus Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum Chorizanthe breweri Chorizanthe rectispina Cirsium fontinale var. obispoense Cirsium occidentale var. compactum Cirsium occidentale var. lucianum Cirsium rhothophilum Cirsium scariosum var. loncholepis Clarkia speciosa ssp. immaculata Delphinium parryi ssp. eastwoodiae Delphinium umbraculorum Dithyrea maritima Dudleya abramsii ssp. bettinae Dudleya abramsii ssp. murina Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. blochmaniae Eriastrum luteum Erigeron blochmaniae Eriodictyon altissimum Eryngium aristulatum var. hooveri Fritillaria ojaiensis Fritillaria viridea Galium hardhamiae Grindelia hirsutula var. maritima Horkelia cuneata var. puberula Continued Natural Habitats and Communities Valley and foothill grassland (alkaline) Chaparral, Coastal prairie, Meadows and seeps, Marshes and swamps (coastal salt), Valley and foothill grassland (vernally mesic)/often alkaline Coastal dunes Chaparral (serpentinite) Coastal dunes, Marshes and swamps (coastal salt) Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub/serpentinite, rocky or gravelly Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/serpentinite seeps, drainages Chaparral, Coastal dunes, Coastal prairie, Coastal scrub Chaparral l (openings)/serpentinite. Often steep rocky slopes and disturbed roadsides. Coastal bluff scrub, Coastal dunes Cismontane woodland, Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Marshes and swamps (brackish), Valley and foothill grassland/mesic, sandy Chaparral (margins, openings), Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland/sandy Chaparral (openings), Valley and foothill grassland/serpentinite, coastal Cismontane woodland Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub (sandy) Chaparral, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/serpentinite, rocky Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland/serpentinite Coastal bluff scrub, Chaparral, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/rocky, often clay or serpentinite Broad-leafed upland forest, Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/sandy or gravelly Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub Chaparral (maritime), Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub/sandstone Vernal pools Broad-leafed upland forest (mesic), Chaparral, Lower montane coniferous forest/rocky Chaparral (serpentinite) Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral/serpentinite Coastal bluff scrub, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland/sandy or serpentinite Chaparral (maritime), Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub/sandy or gravelly Habitat on Site? Potentially but not found Out of range Potentially but not found Potentially in adjacent dune scrub-but not found Potentially in dune scrub but Potentially in dune scrub, but not found Potentially in dune scrub, but not found

27 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 27 Scientific Name Horkelia cuneata var. sericea Juncus luciensis Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Layia jonesii Lupinus ludovicianus Malacothamnus palmeri var. involucratus Malacothamnus palmeri var. palmeri Monardella frutescens Monardella palmeri Monolopia gracilens Navarretia nigelliformis ssp. radians Plagiobothrys uncinatus Poa diaboli Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum Sanicula maritima Scrophularia atrata Senecio aphanactis Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. anomala Streptanthus albidus ssp. peramoenus Suaeda californica Trifolium hydrophilum Triteleia ixioides ssp. cookii Natural Habitats and Communities Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral (maritime), Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub/sandy or gravelly, openings Chaparral, Great Basin scrub, Lower montane coniferous forest, Meadows and seeps, Vernal pools Marshes and swamps (coastal salt), Playas, Vernal pools Chaparral, Valley and foothill grassland/clay or serpentinite Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/sandstone or sandy Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub Chaparral (rocky) Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub (sandy) Chaparral, Cismontane woodland/serpentinite Broad-leafed upland forest (openings), Chaparral (openings), Cismontane woodland, North Coast coniferous forest (openings), Valley and foothill grassland/serpentine Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland, Vernal pools Chaparral l (sandy), Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral (mesic), Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub/shale; sometimes burned areas Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub, Riparian woodland/sandy, gravelly Chaparral, Coastal prairie, Meadows and seeps, Valley and foothill grassland/clay, serpentinite Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral, Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Riparian scrub Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub/sometimes alkaline Closed-cone coniferous forest, Chaparral/rocky, serpentinite Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Valley and foothill grassland/serpentinite Marshes and swamps (coastal salt) Marshes and swamps, Valley and foothill grassland (mesic, alkaline), Vernal pools Closed-cone coniferous forest, Cismontane woodland/serpentinite seeps Habitat on Site? Potentially in dune scrub, but not found Potentially but highly unlikely Potentially in dune scrub, but not found Potentially but highly unlikely Potentially but highly unlikely Potentially but highly unlikely Summary and Findings Regarding Special-Status Species After an intensive search of the subject lot, no rare plants were found, and none would be expected. Introduced, weedy grasses and forbs and a large patch of ice plant dominate the site (Figure 7; Photos 1 to 3). Some rare plants are known to occur in the general vicinity of the site; mostly in the coastal salt marsh, sand dunes, and serpentine slopes. None of these habitats are found on the project site. A few of the potential rare plants occur in sandy soils near the ocean. All of these plants would have been readily recognizable during the time of our surveys and were not found on or near the subject lot.

28 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 28 RESULTS: WILDLIFE ON SITE The subject lot is highly disturbed and almost entirely covered by a dense stand of ruderal vegetation composed of ice plant and introduced grasses and forbs (Photos 1 to 3). In addition, the study site is part of a urban subdivision with many homes and roads around the site. As a result of these and other factors, the biological significance and wildlife habitat values of the project site are very low. Many of the species observed were typical of urban areas where disturbances are common. However, to the west of the subject lot is a large expanse of coastal dune scrub (Photo 1). This area has a larger diversity of wildlife species. The wildlife species found in coastal dune scrub are highly variable from place to place depending on the physiognomy of the stand of coastal dune scrub and what other habitats may be nearby. Since many stands of coastal dune scrub occur in a mosaic of habitat types, species that are characteristic of other habitat types may be found within coastal dune scrub. None of the wildlife species that use the coastal dune scrub habitat would utilize the subject lot habitat but may been seen near the lot. Table 7 provides a list of the most common and characteristic wildlife species found in coastal dune scrub communities around Morro Bay, CA. (Table 7) Table 7. Common wildlife in the coastal dune scrub around Morro Bay, CA REPTILES BIRDS Western fence lizard American goldfinch Legless lizard Lesser goldfinch Gopher snake House finch Western rattlesnake House sparrow BIRDS Turkey vulture California towhee California Quail Red tailed hawk Mourning dove Anna s hummingbird Rufus hummingbird Allen s hummingbird Black phoebe Western scrub jay Western crow Bushtits Northern mockingbird California thrasher Spotted towhee White-crowned sparrow MAMMALS Brush rabbit Desert cottontail California Ground squirrel Botta s pocket gopher Black-tailed Jackrabbit California pocket mouse California mouse Deer mouse Brush mouse Striped skunk Bobcat Coyote Mule deer

29 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 29 SPECIAL STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES A number of special status wildlife species are known to occur along the central coast of California in the general vicinity of the project site. A search of the CNDDB reports for the Morro Bay North U.S.G.S 7.5 minute quadrangle and the immediately surrounding quadrangles (Port San Luis, Pismo Beach San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, Morro Bay South, and Cayucos) provide a list of wildlife species with special listing that have potential of being on the subject or within about 10 linear miles of the property (Tables 8 and 9 Table 8 lists these species and provides information on their current rarity status. We carefully searched the subject site for any signs of these potential special status wildlife species, but none were found on the site or expected to use the site because no suitable habitats were found. Table 9 lists the special status wildlife species by quadrangles in which they have been reported. TABLE 8. List of wildlife species found in the Morro Bay North and Morro Bay South U.S.G.S 7.5 minute quadrangle and the adjacent quadrangles Cayucos, Cypress Mountain, York Mountain, Templeton, Atascadero, Paso Robles, Adelaida, Lime Mountain, and Morro Bay South (N = none, T = threatened, E = endangered, C = candidate, SSC = species of special concern, FP = federally proposed for change, WL = watch list) COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME FED / CAL STATUS DFG STATUS FISH southern steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus E / N SSC tidewater goby Eucyclogobius newberryi E / N SSC AMPHIBIANS/REPTILES black legless lizard Anniella pulchra nigra N / N SSC California red-legged frog Rana draytonii T / N SSC coast horned lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii N / N SSC coast Range newt Taricha torosa N / N SSC foothill yellow-legged frog Rana boylii N / N SSC silvery legless lizard Anniella pulchra pulchra N / N SSC western pond turtle Emys marmorata N / N SSC western spadefoot Spea hammondii N / N SSC BIRDS bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Delisted/E FP burrowing owl Athene cunicularia N / N SSC California black rail Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus N / T FP California clapper rail Rallus longirostris obsoletus E / E FP California horned lark Eremophila alpestris actia N / N WL Cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperii N / N WL Continued

30 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 30 FED / CAL STATUS DFG STATUS COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis N / N WL golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos N / N FP WL least Bell's vireo Vireo bellii pusillus E / E loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus N / N SSC purple martin Progne subis N / N SSC tricolored blackbird Agelaius tricolor N / N SSC western snowy plover Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus T / N SSC western yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus occidentalis C / E white-tailed kite Elanus leucurus N / N FP MAMMALS American badger Taxidea taxus N / N SSC big free-tailed bat Nyctinomops macrotis N / N SSC Monterey dusky-footed woodrat Neotoma macrotis luciana N / N SSC Morro Bay kangaroo rat Dipodomys heermanni morroensis E / E FP pallid bat Antrozous pallidus N / N SSC Salinas pocket mouse Perognathus inornatus psammophilus N / N SSC San Diego desert woodrat Neotoma lepida intermedia N / N SSC San Joaquin kit fox Vulpes macrotis mutica E / T San Joaquin pocket mouse Perognathus inornatus inornatus N / N Townsend's big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii N / N SSC western mastiff bat Eumops perotis californicus N / N SSC INVERTEBRATES Atascadero June beetle Polyphylla nubila N / N California linderiella Linderiella occidentalis N / N globose dune beetle Coelus globosus N / N Lompoc grasshopper Trimerotropis occulens N / N monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus N / N Morro Bay blue butterfly Plebejus icarioides moroensis N / N Morro shoulderband (=banded dune) snail Helminthoglypta walkeriana E / N SSC San Luis Obispo pyrg Pyrgulopsis taylori N / N sandy beach tiger beetle Cicindela hirticollis gravida N / N vernal pool fairy shrimp Branchinecta lynchi T / N

31 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 31 TABLE 9. List of wildlife species found in each of the U.S.G.S 7.5 minute quadrangles searched for special status species. (N = none, T = threatened, E = endangered, C = candidate, SSC = species of special concern, FP = federally proposed for change, WL = watch list) QUAD. SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME FEDERAL STATUS STATE STATUS DFG STATUS Adelaida Taxidea taxus American badger None None SSC Paso Robles Taxidea taxus American badger None None SSC Templeton Taxidea taxus American badger None None SSC Atascadero Polyphylla nubila Atascadero June beetle None None Paso Robles Polyphylla nubila Atascadero June beetle None None Templeton Polyphylla nubila Atascadero June beetle None None Lime Mountain Haliaeetus leucocephalus bald eagle Delisted Endangere d FP Atascadero Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Cayucos Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Cypress Mountain Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Cypress Mountain Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Morro Bay North Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Templeton Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC York Mountain Rana draytonii California red-legged frog Threatened None SSC Morro Bay North Phrynosoma blainvillii coast horned lizard None None SSC Atascadero Taricha torosa Coast Range newt None None SSC Cypress Mountain Taricha torosa Coast Range newt None None SSC York Mountain Taricha torosa Coast Range newt None None SSC Cayucos Coelus globosus globose dune beetle None None Morro Bay North Coelus globosus globose dune beetle None None Atascadero Aquila chrysaetos golden eagle None None FP WL Paso Robles Aquila chrysaetos golden eagle None None FP WL Paso Robles Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo Endangered Endangere d Templeton Trimerotropis occulens Lompoc grasshopper None None Cayucos Danaus plexippus monarch butterfly None None Morro Bay North Danaus plexippus monarch butterfly None None Adelaida Neotoma macrotis luciana Monterey dusky-footed woodrat None None SSC Morro Bay North Plebejus icarioides moroensis Morro Bay blue butterfly None None Morro Bay North Helminthoglypta walkeriana Morro shoulderband (=banded dune) snail Endangered None Atascadero Northern Interior Cypress Forest Northern Interior Cypress Forest None None Atascadero Antrozous pallidus pallid bat None None SSC Cayucos Antrozous pallidus pallid bat None None SSC Morro Bay North Antrozous pallidus pallid bat None None SSC Atascadero Progne subis purple martin None None SSC Adelaida Perognathus inornatus psammophilus Salinas pocket mouse None None SSC Adelaida Vulpes macrotis mutica San Joaquin kit fox Endangered Threatened Paso Robles Vulpes macrotis mutica San Joaquin kit fox Endangered Threatened Templeton Vulpes macrotis mutica San Joaquin kit fox Endangered Threatened Paso Robles Perognathus inornatus inornatus San Joaquin pocket mouse None None Morro Bay North Pyrgulopsis taylori San Luis Obispo pyrg None None Morro Bay North Cicindela hirticollis gravida sandy beach tiger beetle None None Cayucos Cicindela hirticollis gravida sandy beach tiger beetle None None Continued

32 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 32 QUAD. SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME FEDERAL STATUS STATE STATUS DFG STATUS Adelaida Anniella pulchra pulchra silvery legless lizard None None SSC Templeton Anniella pulchra pulchra silvery legless lizard None None SSC Cayucos Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus southern steelhead - southern California DPS Endangered None SSC Cayucos Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus steelhead - south/central California coast DPS Threatened None SSC Cypress Mountain Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus steelhead - south/central California coast DPS Threatened None SSC Morro Bay North Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus steelhead - south/central California coast DPS Threatened None SSC Cayucos Eucyclogobius newberryi tidewater goby Endangered None SSC Morro Bay North Eucyclogobius newberryi tidewater goby Endangered None SSC Lime Mountain Valley Oak Woodland Valley Oak Woodland None None Adelaida Branchinecta lynchi vernal pool fairy shrimp Threatened None Paso Robles Branchinecta lynchi vernal pool fairy shrimp Threatened None Templeton Branchinecta lynchi vernal pool fairy shrimp Threatened None Atascadero Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Cayucos Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Cypress Mountain Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Lime Mountain Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Morro Bay North Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Paso Robles Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Templeton Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC York Mountain Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Morro Bay North Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus western snowy plover Threatened None SSC Adelaida Spea hammondii western spadefoot None None SSC Templeton Spea hammondii western spadefoot None None SSC TABLE 10. List of wildlife species found in the Morro Bay North quadrangle. (N = none, T = threatened, E = endangered, C = candidate, SSC = species of special concern, FP = federally proposed for change, WL = watch list) COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME FED / CAL STATUS DFG STATUS AMPHIBIANS/REPTILES black legless lizard Anniella pulchra nigra N / N SSC coast horned lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii N / N SSC silvery legless lizard Anniella pulchra pulchra N / N SSC BIRDS burrowing owl Athene cunicularia N / N SSC western snowy plover Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus T / N SSC INVERTEBRATES globose dune beetle Coelus globosus N / N Morro Bay blue butterfly Plebejus icarioides moroensis N / N Morro shoulderband (=banded dune) snail Helminthoglypta walkeriana E / N SSC

33 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 33 For the most part, special status animal species (Tables 8 and 9) that occur in the Morro Bay area are highly restricted both in distribution range and in habitat requirements. The following are some examples of the specific habitat requirements for some of the species. Some rare animal species occur in salt or brackish water, e.g., the Tidewater goby; some require permanent standing water, e.g., Steelhead; some occur in vernal pools, e.g., the fairy shrimp; some occur only in specific soils and or other substrate conditions, e.g., the globose dune beetle (fore dune sands); some require specific roosting sites, e.g., the bat species; some require large, deep bodies of water, e.g., the western pond turtle and red-legged frogs; some require permanent standing water to lay their eggs; e.g. coast range newt; for some the site is simply out of the geographic range in which they have been found, e.g., Atascadero June beetle; and some are not found or expected on the site because they are secretive and avoid areas with heavy human activity. None of these specialized habitats occur on or near the subject site. However, some of the species listed in Table 8 have been reported from the Morro Bay North quadrangle (Table 10), and while we would not expect any of them to use the subject lot, some may be found in the coastal dune scrub between the subject lot and Estero Bay. Each of these rare species is discussed below. The other special status wildlife species listed in Table 8 are discussed in Appendix 2. California black and silvery legless lizards: Two subspecies of California Legless Lizard have been recognized based on individual color morphs: the Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra) and the Black Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra nigra). However, more recent taxonomic studies consider them melanistic morphs of the same subspecies. They are not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service but are considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. Legless lizards are found in scattered locations from Contra Costa County in northern California south to Baja California, typically in sand dunes along the coast. Locally they are fairly common in sandy soils of Montana de Oro State Park, Los Osos, and Morro Bay. Legless lizards are adapted for burrowing in sandy soils and through leaf litter. As such, they spend much of their time underground or beneath duff. They may be active on the surface at night, remaining in subsurface moisture horizons during the day. There are no appropriate habitats for legless lizards on the project lot itself, but there may be legless lizards in the sandy dune soils west of the site. This area will not be disturbed by the proposed project. Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. In a recent study 5 phylogeographic groups in the coast horned lizard complex were recognized, which include 3 ecologically divergent and morphologically diagnosable species: Phrynosoma

34 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 34 coronatum, Phrynosoma cerroense, and Phrynosoma blainvillii. These studies indicate that Phrynosoma blainvilli, which occurs in California and in the Morro Bay area, consists of 3 phylogeographic groups, but conclude that these groups do not represent three distinct species. Historically, the horned lizard was found along the Pacific coast from Baja California north to the Bay Area, and inland as far north as Shasta Reservoir. This species also extends inland to the Kern Plateau east of the crest of the Sierra Nevada. Although its current range is more scattered and fragmented, Horned lizards are found in open areas of sandy soil and low vegetation in valleys, foothills and semiarid mountains from sea level to 8,000 ft. Coast horned lizards have been found in various places in San Luis Obispo County, including various localities around Morro Bay. However, herpetologist Fred Andoli believes that the coast horned lizards may have disappeared from many of the places in which they were once found in San Luis Obispo County. There may be some areas of habitat for the coast horned lizard in the coastal dune complex east of Estero Bay and west of the project site; however, no horned lizards would be expected to use the subject lot. No coast horned lizards were observed during field surveys, and no habitat for this species occurs on the project site. Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrines nivosus) is listed as threatened by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, endangered by the State of California, and as a Species of Special Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Plovers breed on most continents. In North America they breed in the western interior and on the Pacific and Gulf coasts. Snowy Plovers inhabit sandy beaches and foredunes next to the Pacific Ocean, though they also forage on nearby mud flats, especially after breeding season. They may also forage in coastal lagoons, tidal flats, dry salt flats, and large sandy rivers and lakes where there is little vegetation. Western snowy plovers are known to breed along the Morro Bay sand spit (across the harbor mouth from Morro Rock) and along the dune complex of Montana de Oro and Atascadero or Morro Strand State Beach that extends north from Morro Rock and east of Estero Bay. Of these areas, the Sand Spit seems to have a higher density of nesting pairs. Winter birds are seen throughout the county on sandy beaches. Summer residents are more localized. Nests, which are no more than shallow scrapes in the sand lined with bits of debris, are easily disturbed by human activity. Snowy plovers are also known to be heavily impacted by coyote and fox populations. While the snowy plovers utilize some beach areas in the general vicinity of the project site, they would not use the subject lot.

35 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 35 Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. Burrowing owls range from the Mississippi to the Pacific and from the Canadian prairie provinces into South America. They are also found in Florida and the Caribbean islands. However, they have disappeared from much of their historic range. This owl is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, prairies, savannas, deserts, and farmlands. This owl gets its name because it lives in underground burrows, which provide shelter and permanent nest sites. Unlike other owls, burrowing owls are active during the day, especially in the spring when they gather food for their large broods. This species of owl prefers open areas with low ground cover. They can often be found perching near their burrow on fence posts and trees. During the breeding season diurnal foraging increases and is in large part possible due to the protection afforded by quick escape into a burrow. As such the burrow provides the same sort of cover and protection afforded to nocturnal predators. This species is most generally associated with interior habitats of eastern San Luis Obispo County (Carrizo plain, Elkhorn Plains, and the Cuyama Valley) but occasionally are seen near the coast. Occurrence of this species along the coast is most generally expected along the northern county coast (Cambria area) and even then occurrence is rare. There are records of wintering burrowing owls along the Sand Spit west of Morro Bay. Those burrows were exclusively for wintering use and not for nesting. No burrows were found on or near the project site, and no suitable habitat for burrowing owls exist on the site. Morro blue butterfly (Plebejus icarioides morroensis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. Morro blue butterflies are locally common March to July, with males appearing first. They fly only along the immediate coast of San Luis Obispo and western Santa Barbara Counties where they are limited to a narrow strip of dunes from Vandenberg Air Force Base to the dunes around Morro Bay. Interestingly this subspecies of blue butterflies referred to as Morro blue butterfly in not recognized by the North American Butterfly Associations standardized list of 2001 Morro blue butterflies are associated with Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine), where it finds shelter, feeds, and lays eggs. Locally, this species is known to occur in the coastal dune scrub areas around Morro Bay. No Morro blue butterflies were observed during our site visits. However, silver lupine is a common component of the stabilized dunes east of Estero Bay and west of the subject lot. In addition, there is a stand of silver beach lupine along the northwestern boundary of subject lot as well as the adjacent lots in the subdivision. Even though no Morro blue butterflies were observed during our site visits, the silver lupines near the subject lot could potentially provide habitat. Therefore, we recommend that no disturbance take place within the population

36 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 36 of silver dune lupines west of the subject lot and that the potential habitat not be disturbed. No disturbance to this area is anticipated as a result of this project, but we recommend fencing it during construction. Morro Bay shoulderband snail (Helminthoglypta walkeriana) is not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Historically, the shoulderband dune snail, is known to occur in limited numbers on stabilized, vegetated, Flandrian-age dunes in the vicinity of Morro Bay, California. Some additional occurrences have also been reported on older pre-flandrian dunes just south of Morro Bay. Most of the shoulderband snails habitat is in Montana de Oro and the Los Osos area. It was generally considered to occur only south of Morro Bay; however, in the last few years it has been discovered at Morro Strand State Beach. The Morro shoulderband is not a garden pest like the brown garden snail as it feeds on decaying vegetation instead of live plants. However, the brown garden snail may colonize sites to the exclusion of shoulderband snails. Morro shoulderband snails are usually found in moist areas under bushes or vegetative duff. They are usually found in coastal dune scrub vegetation composed of such plants as Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine) and Ericameria ericoides, (mock heather). However, they have also been reported under the litter of non-native species such as ice plant, narrow-leafed ice plant, veldt grass, and European beach grass. The primary threat to Morro shoulderband snail is habitat destruction and degradation due to urban development, human impacts such as off-road vehicles, and invasion of non-native, weedy plant species, such as the vegetation on the subject lot. There are potential habitats for the shoulderband snail in the coastal dune scrub vegetation east of Estero Bay and west of the subject lot. It is also possible that they could be found in the large patch of ice plant on the lot, but this is unlikely. We searched the subject lot and areas immediately around the lot for shoulderband snails or shells of the snail. None were found during our site visits; however, we recommend that the lot be searched just before construction, and if shoulderband snails are found, they should be placed in appropriate habitats in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot. Globose dune beetle (Coelus globosus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. This dune beetle inhabits the sandy beaches and fore dunes of California's coastal dune system from central and southern California to Baja California. These beetles are primarily subterranean, tunneling through sand underneath dune vegetation. The species is somewhat widely distributed (has even colonized the California Channel islands) in spite of the fact that the adults do not have functional wings. Globose

37 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 37 dune beetles were once common in sandy beaches and fore dunes of central and southern California but have become drastically limited in most areas. Major threats to this species are the destruction of foredunes and the coastal dune system in California. This species occurs on coastal foredunes. We did not find this species during our search of the site and would not expect it to occur, as no foredune habitats are present on or near the subject lot. The remainder of the species listed in Table 8 as gleaned from the CNDDB reports are not expected to be on the subject lot due to lack of habitat or minimal habitat as a result of the weedy plant cover and urban development around the lot. POTENTIAL IMPACTS TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES Native Plant Impacts: The proposed project is planned for a residential lot covered by a large patch of ice plant and introduced, weedy grasses and forbs (Figure 7; Photos 1 to 3). No disturbances are planned for the coastal dune scrub that occurs along the northwestern portion of the lot. As a result, no impacts to native plants or native plant communities are anticipated. Rare Species Impacts: No rare plant or animal species were found, and none are expected on the site because of the highly disturbed nature of the habitat including a plant cover composed almost entirely of weedy, invasive plant species. However, some of the animal species listed in Table 8 have been reported from the Morro Bay North quadrangle (Table 10), and while we would not expect any of them to use the subject lot, some of these species may be found in the coastal dune scrub east of Estero Bay and west of the subject site. Of these species, we believe two have the potential to be near the site: the Morro blue butterfly and the shoulderband dune snail. Both, if present, would likely be found in the coastal dune scrub along the western boundary of the subject site. Mitigation: As mentioned above, all disturbances will be restricted to the residential lot, and no disturbances are proposed or should occur to coastal dune scrub along the western boundary of the subject lot. We recommend that the coastal dune scrub area be temporarily fenced during construction to assure no disturbances occur. Morro blue butterfly: Even though no Morro blue butterflies were observed during our site visits, the silver lupines near the subject lot could potentially provide habitat. Therefore, we recommend that no disturbance take place within the population of silver dune lupines west of the subject lot and that the potential habitat not be disturbed. No disturbances to this area are anticipated as a result of this project; however, as mentioned above, we still recommend that a

38 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 38 temporary fence be placed along the western boundary of the lot between the lot and population of silver dune lupines during construction. Shoulderband dune snail: There are potential habitats for the shoulderband snail in the coastal dune scrub vegetation west of the subject lot and east of Estero Bay. It is also possible that they could be found in the large patch of ice plant on the lot, but this is unlikely. Even though we did not find any living shoulderband snails or shells of the snail on or near the subject lot during our search of the site, we still recommend that a biologist search the lot again just before construction. Although highly unlikely, if shoulderband snails are found, they should be carefully placed in appropriate habitats in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot. The recommended temporary fencing for the Morro blue butterfly will also protect the potential habitat of shoulderband snail in the coastal dune scrub next to the subject lot. CONCLUSION There are several factors that have greatly reduced the biological significance and habitat values of the highly disturbed subject lot. Residential development, paved roads, and heavy human usage of the area reduces wildlife values. The vegetation cover on the lot, which is composed of a large patch of ice plant and introduced, weedy grasses and forbs, does not provide suitable habitat for most wildlife species in this area. All of these factors reduce the biological value and wildlife habitats on the site. The coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot does provide valuable wildlife habitat for a number of species. However, the proposed development will not encroach into this habitat, and the coastal dune scrub near the western boundary of the lot will be fenced to assure no disturbances occur. While we do not believe the Morro blue butterfly or the shoulderband snail occur on or near the lot, we still recommend the fencing described above to assure that the habitat of these species is protected. In addition, we recommend that the lot be searched again for shoulderband snails just prior to construction. If any are found, which we believe is highly unlikely, they should be carefully placed in appropriate habitats in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot. If additional mitigation is warranted, we recommend that some of the area immediately next to the lot be restored by planting native shrubs typical of the adjacent coastal scrub (Table 2). This will allow the proposed project to actually improve and enhance the biological value of the areas around it.

39 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 39 REFERENCES Amphibia Web Baldwin, B. G., D. H. Goldman, D. J Keil, R. Patterson, and T. J. Rosatti (eds.) The Jepson Manual. Vascular Plants of California, 2nd ed. University of California Press, Berkeley, Los Angeles, and London pp. Barbour, M. G. and J. Major, eds Terrestrial Vegetation of California (new expanded edition). California Native Plant Society. Barbour, M.G., T. Keeler-Wolf, and A. Schoenherr Terrestrial Vegetation of California. Third Edition. U. C. Press. Barry, W.J The Central Valley Prairie. Vol. 1. California Prairie Ecosystem. Technical Report. Sacramento: Department of Parks and Recreation. Biswell, H.H Ecology of California grasslands. Journal of Range Management 9: California Department of Fish and Game, The Resources Agency California s Wildlife, Volume III, Mammals. Edited by D.C. Zeiner, W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K.E. Mayer, M. White., Sacramento. California Department of Fish and Game California Terrestrial Natural Communities Recognized by the California Natural Diversity Data Base. California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Data Base. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v8-01a). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Accessed on Wednesday, October 05, California s Wildlife Volume II: Birds. California Department of Fish and Game. California. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Science Series 26: California herps Consortium of California Herbaria database Ernstrom, Daniel J Soil Survey of San Luis Obispo County, California, Coastal Part. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. Felton, E.L California s Many Climates. Palo Alto: Pacific Books. Garth, J.S. and J.W. Tilden California Butterflies. University of California Press, Berkeley. 246 p. Hall, C.A., Jr., W.G. Ernst, S.W. Prior, and J.W. Wiese Geologic map of the San Luis Obispo-San Simeon Region, California. U.S. Geological Survey, Miscellaneous Investigations Series, MAP I Holland, V.L. and D.J. Keil California Vegetation. Dubuque: Kendall/Hunt Publishing Co. Hoover, Robert F The Vascular Plants of San Luis Obispo County, California. U. C. Press, Berkeley, CA.

40 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 40 Jennings, Mark R. and Marc P Pre-1900 Overharvest of California re-legged frogs (Rana aurora drayutonii): The inducement for bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) Introduction. Herpetologica 41(1): Jepson Flora Project Editors Second Edition of The Jepson Manual: Vascular Plants of California. Treatments for public viewing ( Krebs, Charles J Ecological Methodology. Benjamin Cummings. 620 pp. Mayer, Ken E. and William Laudenslayer A Guide to Wildlife Habitats of California. CA. Dept of Forestry and Fire Protection. 165 pp. Murie, Olaus J A Field Guide to Animal Tracks. Second Edition. Houghton Mifflin North American Butterfly Association Checklist of North American Butterflies Occurring North of Mexico-Second Edition. Reed, P. B., Jr National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: National Summary. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC. Biol. Rpt. 88(24). 244 pp. Sawyer, John and T. Keeler-Wolf A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant Society Publication. 470 pp. Scott, James A The Butterflies of North America. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California. 583 p. Stebbens, R. C A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Trewartha, G.T., and L.H. Horn An Introduction to Climate. ed. 5. New York: McGraw- Hill. United States Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Revised Wetlands Delineation Manual. Environmental Technical Services Co., Austin, TX. United States Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or Threatened Species; Federal Register 55 (35): Warner, R. E. and K. M. Hendrix (eds.) California riparian systems. Ecology, Conservation and Productive Management. U. C. Press, Berkeley pp.

41 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 41 APPENDIX 1. LIST OF PLANT SPECIES FOUND ON 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA AND IN THE COASTAL DUNE SCRUB NEAR IT. Scientific Name Common name SHRUBS (COASAL DUNE SCRUB) Artemisia californica California sagebrush ** Atriplex lentiformis Lens-scale saltbush Baccharis pilularis Coyote bush Ericameria ericoides Mock-heather Eriogonum parvifolium Coastal buckwheat * Eriophyllum staechadifolium Coastal golden-yarrow Isocoma menziesii Coastal goldenbush *** Lupinus chamissonis Silver lupine Mimulus aurantiacus Bush monkeyflower Salvia mellifera Black sage Senecio blochmaniae Blochman's ragwort HERBS * Avena fatua Common wild oats * Beta vulgaris Beet * Bromus diandrus Ripgut brome * Carpobrotus edulis Ice plant Distichlis spicata Salt grass * Festuca perennis Ryegrass * Malva parviflora Cheeseweed * Medicago polymorpha Bur-clover * Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda-buttercup * Plantago coronopus English plantain * Plantago lanceolata English plantain * Raphanus sativus Wild radish * Rumex crispus Curly dock * Sonchus oleraceus Common sow-thistle * Vicia sativa Common vetch *Exotic species, not native to California. **California native but escaped from cultivation where growing wild in Morro Bay area. It is near the northeastern corner of the lot *** Silver lupines occur immediately along the northwestern edge of the lot.

42 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 42 APPENDIX 2 SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES OF THE MORRO BAY AREA AND THE SURROUNDING QUADRANGLES Steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus). Steelheads are considered endangered by U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. They are anadromous rainbow trout and can enter the rivers and creeks in California during most months of the year. Typically there are runs of steelhead in late summer through October (fall runs), November through April (winter runs), and May through June (spring runs). Steelheads enter a river or stream that can be shared by larger salmonids, but they usually occupy smaller tributaries than salmon and use finer beds of river gravel in which to spawn. Typically steelhead trout spend one to two years in fresh water before entering the ocean and then return to spawn at three to four years old. Steelhead were formerly abundant in many of the steams and rivers of the Central Coast of California. They were a common component of the Salinas River and some of its tributaries, but they are currently considered to be uncommon. Degradation of many streams and rivers has resulted in the diminution or demise of steelhead in certain drainages. There are no streams on or near the subject lot that would support steelhead trout. Tidewater gobi (Eucyclogobius newberryi) is considered endangered by U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. These are small fishes characterized by large pectoral fins and a ventral sucker-like disk formed by the complete fusion of the pelvic fins. Tidewater gobies inhabit estuaries, bays, and lagoons that occur in areas that are separated from the ocean by sand bars. Tidal action brings in salt water into the bays and lagoons where it mixes with the fresh water of inland streams forming brackish waters. Juvenile tidewater gobies have been found in upstream areas such as in Ten Mile River, Mendocino County, and San Antonio Creek and the Santa Ynez River, Santa Barbara County, but for the most part tidewater gobies occur in brackish water with salinities less than 10 ppt. Tidewater gobies range from Carlsbad, San Diego County, north to Lake Earl, Del Norte County. Their range extends from Tillas Slough at the mouth of the Smith River in Del Norte County, California, south to Agua Hedionda Lagoon in San Diego County. While once recorded in over 80 coastal bays and lagoons, they have been eliminated from many locations, including San Francisco Bay. They are common in some brackish wetlands in San Luis Obispo County, but no appropriate habitats occur on or near the project site.

43 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 43 California black and silvery legless lizards: Two subspecies of California Legless Lizard have been recognized based on individual color morphs: the Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra) and the Black Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra nigra). However, more recent taxonomic studies consider them melanistic morphs of the same subspecies. They are not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service but are considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. Legless lizards are found in scattered locations from Contra Costa County in northern California south to Baja California, typically in sand dunes along the coast. Locally they are fairly common in sandy soils of Montana de Oro State Park, Los Osos, and Morro Bay. Legless lizards are adapted for burrowing in sandy or loamy soils and through leaf litter. As such, they spend much of their time underground or beneath duff. They may be active on the surface at night, remaining in subsurface moisture horizons during the day. There are no appropriate habitats for legless lizards on the project site itself, but there may be in the sandy soils west of the site. This area will not be disturbed by the proposed project. California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii) is a species that is considered threatened by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. California red-legged frogs have historically been found in riparian habitats throughout the coastal areas of California and in some inland areas. Historically, red-legged frogs were likely widespread throughout San Luis Obispo County and were probably found in most streams with permanent pools, as well as permanent ponds, lakes, and marshes. Unfortunately, today redlegged has disappeared from almost all of its former range. U. S. Fish and Wildlife biologists have found red-legged frogs in San Luis Obispo County mostly in the lower portions of coastal streams. This modified distribution (relative to the historical distribution) is thought to be a result of brackish water habitats giving red-legged frogs a competitive edge with the introduced bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). Red-legged frogs have been extirpated from over 75% of their former range, and are threatened throughout their remaining range by human activity. Exotic predators and competitors include red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), bullfrogs, bass, catfish, sunfish, and mosquito fish. The majority of occupied habitat, for the redlegged frog, which once ranged throughout central and southern California into Baja, is now restricted to Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara Counties. Red-legged frogs need a year-round pool of water. Based on research by Jennings and Hayes (1985), red-legged frogs require intermittent stream habitat with some permanent standing water, usually 28 inches deep and dense shoreline vegetation that lacks introduced bullfrogs and other introduced predators and competitors. Cattails (Typha), tules (Scirpus), or willows (Salix)

44 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 44 are typically associated with the presence of red-legged frogs. Canopy cover keeps the water temperature low, a particularly important habitat requirement for red-legged frogs (Hayes 1990). Also, red-legged frogs usually occur with native fish and less frequently with non-native fish (Hayes and Jennings 1989). No streams or wetland habitats occur on or next to the subject site. Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. In a recent study 5 phylogeographic groups in the Coast Horned Lizard complex were recognized, which include 3 ecologically divergent and morphologically diagnosable species: Phrynosoma coronatum, Phrynosoma cerroense, and Phrynosoma blainvillii. They show that Phrynosoma blainvilli, which occurs in California, consists of 3 phylogeographic groups, but conclude that these groups do not represent three distinct species. Historically, the horned lizard was found along the Pacific coast from Baja California north to the Bay Area, and inland as far north as Shasta Reservoir. This species also extends inland to the Kern Plateau east of the crest of the Sierra Nevada. Although its current range is more scattered and fragmented, Horned lizards are found in open areas of sandy soil and low vegetation in valleys, foothills and semiarid mountains from sea level to 8,000 ft. Coast horned lizards have been found in various places in San Luis Obispo County, including various localities around Morro Bay. However, herpetologist Fred Andoli believes that the coast horned lizards may have disappeared from many of the places in which they were once found in San Luis Obispo County. No horned lizards were observed during field surveys, and no habitat for this species occurs on the project site. There may be some areas of habitat for coast horned lizards in the dune complex east of Estero Bay and west of the subject lot; however, no horned lizards were observed in the coastal dune scrub near the subject lot during our surveys. Coast Range newts (Taricha torosa torosa) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. This California species occurs in wet forests, oak forests, chaparral, and rolling grasslands. It utilizes ponds, reservoirs, and pools in streams to breed, typically beginning in December or January or with the first heavy rains. Eggs are attached to submerged vegetation or stones. Larvae transform and begin to live on land at the end of the summer or in early fall. In summer they can be found in moist habitats under woody debris, or in rock crevices and animal burrows, but can sometimes be seen wandering overland in moist habitat or conditions any time of the year. No wetland habitats occur on or next to the proposed project site.

45 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 45 Foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. This species is a small frog found in streams from northern Oregon and down the west coast of California and Baja California, Mexico. Foothill yellow-legged frogs occur in stream and rivers where there is flowing water as opposed to ponds and lakes with still water. Generally their habitat has a rocky substrate, sunny banks, and areas of shallow water. The drainage on the project site is small, seasonal, and highly disturbed; therefore, the opportunity for the yellow-legged frogs to inhabit this drainage is highly unlikely. No wetland habitats occur on the proposed project site. Western (southwestern) pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. Western pond turtles require ponds, lakes, or deeper waters to avoid predators and to feed. They can live on land and will often travel overland in search of a source of water or a place to over summer in underground burrows in dry years. No appropriate aquatic or wetland habitats for western pond turtles occur on and near the project site, and no signs of them were found. Western spadefoot toad (Spea hammondii) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. This species is endemic to California and northern Baja California. It ranges from areas in Transverse, Peninsular, and South Coast Ranges westward to coastal regions of southern California and northward through the Central Valley to areas around Redding. This species occurs in open, wetland areas with sandy or gravelly soils, in a variety of vegetation and habitat types including mixed woodlands, grasslands, coastal scrub, chaparral, sandy washes, lowlands, river floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali flats, foothills, and mountains. Ponds without predators such as bullfrogs, fish, or crayfish are necessary for breeding. Its geographic range extends through San Luis Obispo County where it can occur in a diversity of habitats; however, these habitats must always contain a body of water (temporary or seasonal). Aestivating toads would be likely found close to creeks or ponds. No appropriate aquatic or wet habitats for this species occur on and near the project site. Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was taken off the federal endangered species list in 2007 but has remained on the State list as Threatened and on California Department of Fish and Game list as FP. The bald eagles are the only eagles unique to North America. They are found throughout most of North America, from Alaska and Canada to northern Mexico. About half of the world's populations of bald eagles live in Alaska. Combined with British Columbia's population, the northwest coast of North America is by far their greatest stronghold for this species. Bald eagles live primarily along the coast and on

46 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 46 major lakes and rivers where they feed mainly on fish, which is an important food source. In San Luis Obispo and Monterey Counties they may be found along the shores of Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento and their associated rivers. A female bald eagle's body length varies from 35 to 37 inches; with a wingspan of 79 to 90 inches. The smaller male bald eagle has a body length of 30 to 34 inches; with a wingspan ranging from 72 to 85 inches. They typically build large nests of sticks and twigs in tall trees along the shoreline of oceans, lakes, and rivers. This top-of-the-food-chain species has been known to live up to 40 years in captivity and 15 to 20 years in the wild. The subject lot and areas around it in Morro Bay do not have suitable habitat for this species, and none (or very few) have been reported along the immediate shoreline in the Morro Bay area. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. Burrowing owls range from the Mississippi to the Pacific and from the Canadian prairie provinces into South America. They are also found in Florida and the Caribbean islands. However, they have disappeared from much of their historic range. This owl is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, prairies, savannas, deserts, and farmlands. This owl gets its name because it lives in underground burrows, which provide shelter and a permanent nest site. Unlike other owls, burrowing owls are active during the day, especially in the spring when they gather food for their large broods. This species of owl prefers open areas with low ground cover. They can often be found perching near their burrow on fence posts and trees. During the breeding season diurnal foraging increases and is in large part possible due to the protection afforded by quick escape into a burrow. As such the burrow provides the same sort of cover and protection afforded to nocturnal predators. This species is most generally associated with interior habitats of eastern San Luis Obispo County (Carrizo plain, Elkhorn Plains, and the Cuyama Valley) but occasionally are seen near the coast. Occurrence of this species along the coast is most generally expected along the northern county coast (Cambria area) and even then occurrence is rare. There are records of wintering burrowing owls along the Sand Spit west of Morro Bay. Those burrows were exclusively for wintering use and not for nesting. No burrows were found on or near the project site, and no suitable habitat for burrowing owls exist on the project site. California black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus) is not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service but is considered threatened by the State of California. California black rail is a common species within restricted habitat types around Morro Bay. Abundance is greatest in Salicornia (pickleweed)

47 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 47 dominated salt marsh, as well as wetland vegetation dominated by taller stands of pickleweed and cordgrass, or brackish emergent wetland vegetation with pickleweed, cordgrass, and taller growing Scripus sp. such some areas along Turri Rd adjacent to Morro Bay s southeastern inflow. Populations of breeding individuals appear to be restricted in distribution and include: Los Osos Creek, Chorro Creek, Sweet Springs, Shark Inlet, and Morro Bay State Park. The shallow water and thick cover habitats preferred by this small bird are restricted mainly to inflow areas that feed the Bay. No appropriate salt marsh habitats for this species occur on and near the project site. California clapper rail (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) is listed as endangered by both the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the State of California. This species inhabits a range of mud flats and areas of salt marshes with shallow water. The vegetation is low growing and dominated by Salicornia sp. (pickleweed), Spartina foliosa (Pacific cordgrass), Grindelia sp. (gumplant), and other typical salt marsh plants. They use a network of small tidal sloughs for foraging and quick escape. For cover the California Clapper Rail seeks out nearby emergent wetland vegetation dominated by taller stands of pickleweed and cordgrass, or brackish emergent wetland vegetation with pickleweed, cordgrass, and taller growing Scripus sp. (bulrush). Mussel, clams, arthropods, snails, worms, and small fish are its preferred food. No appropriate salt marsh habitats for this species occur on and near the project site. California Horned lark (Ermophila alpestris actia) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is on Department of Fish and Game s watch list. The horned lark is a relatively common resident in a variety of open habitats, usually where trees and large shrubs are absent. California horned larks breed in level or gently sloping short grass prairie, montane meadows, bald hills, opens coastal plains, fallow agricultural fields, and salt flats. In San Luis Obispo County, horned larks breed primarily in open fields, (short) grasslands, rangelands, saltbush scrub, and salt flats (e.g. Carrizo Plain). Grasses, shrubs, forbs, rocks, litter, clods of soil, and other surface irregularities provide cover. No signs of California horned larks were found on the project site, and no appropriate habitat conditions are present. Cooper s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is on Department of Fish and Game s watch list. Cooper s hawks breed in a few places within the San Luis Obispo County, mainly in oak woodlands. However, Cooper s hawks commonly winter in the County and may be seen around Morro Bay where they may be tallied on birding trips. During the winter, Cooper s hawks are not as shy as during the breeding season, and sometimes they hunt for small birds in residential and industrial areas. This species may fly over or near the project site, but the project site does not offer habitat for these hawks.

48 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 48 Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is on Department of Fish and Game s watch list. The preferred habitat for Ferruginous Hawks is the semiarid grasslands of California and North America. The habitats they use are typically open and without trees; however, there must be perches such as poles, lone trees, knolls, rocky outcrops or large boulders. This species may fly over or near the project site, but the project site does not offer habitat for these hawks. Golden eagle (Aquilla chrysaetos) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is on Department of Fish and Game s watch list. Golden eagles tend to be most common in coastal areas north of Cayucos; however, they may be encountered in almost any location (generally away from humans). It is unlikely that any nesting pairs would be within a one-mile radius of the project site as these birds generally nest in more secluded areas. Hunting grounds could include areas in the general vicinity of the project site but even this is rather unlikely. This species may fly over or near the project site, but the project site does not offer habitat for these hawks Least bells vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) is listed as endangered by both the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the State of California. The species inhabits dense, low, shrubby vegetation, shrubby riparian areas, coastal scrub, and chaparral, often near water. They often feed on insects and spiders. The Least bells vireo of California is considered endangered, primarily from loss of riparian habitat and cowbird parasitism. None of these birds were found near the site and are not expected to use the project site; however, they may use the coastal dune scrub areas that line the back dunes of Morro Bay and east of Estero Bay. Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Shrikes commonly are found around Laguna Lake in San Luis Obispo and in other parts of the county. In other parts of the United States, shrikes may have declined, but in this area they are still relatively common. One can hardly drive around in the large open areas around San Luis Obispo without finding them perched on fences by fields and pastures. This bird preys on insects and small birds, foraging over relatively open grasslands or in oak savannas. No habitat for shrikes occurs on the project site; however, they may use areas in the general vicinity of the subject lot. Purple martin (Progne subis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Their breeding habitat is throughout temperate North America in open areas across eastern North America, and also some locations on the west coast from British Columbia to Mexico. Purple martins are insectivores and are attracted to the large populations of insects that occur near wetlands; therefore, they prefer open spaces that are situated close to bodies of

49 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 49 water. Due to urban development and human interactions in their natural habitats, purple martins are now accustomed to human interaction and live in close proximity with humans today. They tend to find shelter in urban areas where humans put in birdhouse specifically for purple martin s nests. They are usually absent from areas where no such nest sites are provided. Historically, this species inhabited forest edges, montane forests, and deserts and nested in abandoned woodpecker cavities. Some populations that breed in the western United States continue to live in these natural settings, however most utilize human-made birdhouses. Purple Martins suffered a severe population crash in the 20th Century widely linked to the release and spread of European Starlings in North America. Starlings and house sparrows compete with martins for nest cavities and will fight with martins over nest sites. Starlings have even been known to kill Purple Martins, especially nestling young. Where Purple Martins once gathered by the thousands, by the 1980s they had all but disappeared. Purple martins were not observed on the site and would not use the project site. Tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Tricolored blackbirds (Agelaius tricolor) are found in western coastal North America where they are native to California and parts of Oregon, Washington, and Nevada. The largest populations are found in the San Joaquin Valley of California, as well as coastal areas. Tricolored blackbirds are typically found in freshwater marsh areas that have dense growths of cattails, bulrushes, and tules. This vegetation provides nesting and foraging sites. The tricolored blackbird populations have declined by over 80% in the last 80 years and may continue to decline as a result of continued habitat loss and disturbance in colonies established in agricultural fields of California (especially the San Joaquin Valley). Currently, over 40% of the world s population nests in agricultural fields of the San Joaquin Valley, which continues to add pressure on their habitats. No appropriate aquatic or wet habitats for this species occur on and near the project site Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrines nivosus) is listed as threatened by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, endangered by the State of California, and as a Species of Special Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Plovers breed on most continents. In North America they breed in the western interior and on the Pacific and Gulf coasts. Snowy Plovers inhabit sandy beaches and foredunes next to the Pacific Ocean, though they also forage on nearby mud flats, especially after breeding season. They may also forage in coastal lagoons, tidal flats, dry salt flats, and large sandy rivers and lakes where there is little vegetation. Western snowy plovers are known to breed along the Morro Bay sand spit (across the harbor mouth from Morro Rock) and along the dune complex of

50 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 50 Montana de Oro and Atascadero State Beach (also called Morro Strand) that extends North from Morro Rock. Of these areas, the Sand Spit seems to have a higher density of nesting pairs. Winter birds are seen throughout the county on sandy beaches. Summer residents are more localized. Nests, which are no more than shallow scrapes lined with bits of debris, are easily disturbed by human activity. Snowy plovers are also known to be heavily impacted by coyote and fox populations. While the snowy plovers utilize some beach areas in the general vicinity of the project site, they would not use the subject lot. Western yellow-billed cuckoo (Cocyzus americanus occidentalis) is a candidate for listing by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is listed as endangered by the State of California. This species, which was once common along the streams and rivers of the American West, is now a candidate for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Most of the remaining breeding pairs are found in Arizona, California, and New Mexico. Yellow-billed cuckoos prefer open woodlands with clearings and a dense shrub layer. They are often found in woodlands near streams, rivers or lakes. In North America, their preferred habitats include abandoned farmland, old fruit orchards, successional shrubland and dense thickets. In winter, yellow-billed cuckoos can be found in tropical habitats with similar structure, such as scrub forest and mangroves. Cuckoos in Arizona prefer breeding habitat dominated by native tree species, especially cottonwood-willow habitat bordered by mesquite bosque habitat. No wetland habitats occur on or next to the project site. White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is listed is not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. This species inhabits open savannas, pastures, grassland, marshes, and agricultural areas with scattered trees. It perches on the tops of trees or on power lines in these areas. These birds are generally solitary, or in pairs, but communal winter roosts are also not uncommon. Locally they are most common along the coastline from Morro Bay north, though it is possible to find them in many habitats near the coast. Populations do not seem to be migratory and changes in abundance during the year are generally attributed to apparent changes meaning that abundance probably remains constant, but activity patterns and frequency of observation changes. Sightings are least common during the summer breeding season. The White-tailed Kite was rendered almost extinct in California in the 1930s and 1940s by shooting and egg collecting, but they are now common again. The primary food items taken by white-tailed kites (voles, gophers) are known to occur in the general vicinity of the project site, but it is highly unlikely that they would specifically use this site, which is next to homes and roads. American badger (Taxidea taxus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Badgers occur primarily in grasslands, parklands, farms, and other treeless areas with friable soil and large populations of rodents, although in California, American badgers are occasionally found in

51 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 51 open chaparral (with less than 50% plant cover) and riparian zones. They are not usually found in mature chaparral. Badgers are very rare in the sandy soils along the ocean and would not be expected to use the project site, which is next to homes and commercial buildings. Big free tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This species ranges from most of South America northward to Mexico, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Texas, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. On the west coast is occurs in central and southern California. Its habitats include rugged, rocky areas in arid landscapes. It has been found in a variety of vegetation types, including desert shrub, oak woodlands, and evergreen forests. No suitable habitats for this bat species are present on the site. Monterey dusky footed woodrats (Neotoma macrotis luciana) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This species inhabits a variety of habitats, including chaparral, hardwood, conifer, and mixed forests, and riparian woodlands. In most instances, nests are constructed in inaccessible areas, such as thorny thickets, poison oak patches, and at the base or crotch of trees. There is no suitable habitat for woodrats on the project site, and we saw no signs of woodrats or woodrat nests near the site. Morro Bay Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys heermanni morroensis) is listed as endangered by both the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the State of California. This is a highly endangered and geographically restricted species that may even be extinct. Since the mid 1980s population estimates have been 50 individuals or fewer. The entire know population for this form is restricted to coastal scrub vegetation on the southeastern edge of Los Osos. Other possible suitable habitat localities (that are currently unoccupied) include several small parcels east of Los Osos (near the Junior High School), north and south of Los Osos Valley Road to the east of town, and possibly in Montana de Oro State Park. This species has never been reported from this area of Morro Bay, and no appropriate habitats are present. Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This species is an insectivore bat that occurs in arid and semi-arid regions across much of the American west, up and down the coast from Canada to Mexico. The pallid bat most frequently occurs in rocky outcrops, cliffs, and crevices with access to open habitats for foraging. Water must be close to all sites. They forage over open land usually within 8 feet of the soil surface. They typically will use three different types of roosts. A day roost that is a warm, horizontal opening such as in caves, crevices, mines, and occasionally in hollow trees and buildings attics. Roosts must protect bats from

52 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 52 high temperatures. Night roosts may be in more open, such as porches and open buildings, but with foliage nearby, and the hibernation roost is often in buildings, caves, or cracks in rocks. No appropriate habitat exists on the subject lot for this species. Salinas Pocket Mouse (Perognathus inornatus psammophillus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This species ranges from Soledad southward to Hog Canyon in Salinas Valley and maybe into areas around the upper Salinas River. They occur on fine textured, sandy soils and other soils in grassland and desert scrub where vegetation is not dense and soils are friable such as the Carrizo Plain. No appropriate habitat occurs for this species on or near the subject lot. San Diego desert woodrats (Neotoma lepida intermedia) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. These rats are found in a diversity of shrub and desert habitats, primarily associated with rock outcroppings, boulders, cacti, or areas of dense undergrowth. It has been estimated that 81% of captures of woodrats have been in rocky areas of northern San Diego County. Woodrats often are associated with the following vegetation types: cholla cactus, Joshua tree woodland, pinyon-juniper woodland, large cactus patches, coastal sage scrub, stands of prickly pear (Opuntia occidentalis), chaparral, and oak woodlands. There is no suitable habitat for woodrats on the project site, and we saw no signs of woodrats or woodrat nests near the site. San Joaquin kit fox (Perognathus inornatus inornatus) is listed as endangered by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and threatened by the State of California. No one knows historic population numbers for the San Joaquin kit fox. However, kit foxes were originally found throughout most of the San Joaquin Valley in Central California mostly in the grasslands and desert scrub communities. Presently, kit fox is found only on the edges of the San Joaquin Valley from southern Kern County up to Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Joaquin Counties on the west and up to Stanislaus County on the east. There are also a few remaining populations within the Central Valley floor. Currently, it is estimated that there are less than 7,000 San Joaquin kit foxes. No appropriate habitat occurs for this species on or near the subject lot. San Joaquin pocket mouse (Perognathus inornatus inornatus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. This species is found in dry, open, annual grasslands, savanna, and desert shrub communities. It is generally recognized as a species of the Central Valley that requires fine-textured, friable soils and areas with grasses, forbs, or scattered shrubs. It also occurs in alkali sink an saltbush scrub habitats in areas around the Tulare Basin. On the Carrizo Plain, it occurs in annual grasslands with

53 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 53 grasses and forbs such as Erodium, Amsinckia, Astragalus, and Bromus. They are herbivores that feed on seeds of shrubs and annual and perennial grasses and forbs. No appropriate habitat occurs for this species on or near the subject lot. Townsend big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This species is a rare bat throughout its range in North America. The 2 eastern subspecies are federally listed as endangered; the 2 western subspecies, C. t. townsendii and C. t. pallescens, are currently considered species of special concern. This bat is often distributed near rocky areas where caves or abandoned mine tunnels are available. They may also occasionally inhabit old buildings. The primary threat to this species is likely disturbance or destruction of roost sites (e.g., recreational caving, mine reclamation, renewed mining in historic districts). No appropriate habitat occurs for this species on or near the subject site. Western Mastif Bat (Eumops perotis californicus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. This bat ranges from Butt County to southern California coastal basins and western portions of California s southeastern deserts. It is common in the San Joaquin Valley, Salinas Valley, and coastal lowland areas from San Francisco to San Diego. It forages on rugged, rocky areas where crevices are available for roosting and may also roost in buildings. The primary threats to this species are loss of habitat due to urbanization, marsh drainage, cultivation, and insecticides. No appropriate habitat occurs for this species on or near the subject site. Atascadero June beetle (Polyphylla nubila) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. It is one of 45 species of scarab beetles distributed in North and Central America, southern and central Europe, northern Africa, and southern Asia. They typically reside in forests and orchards with most being identified by white elytra scales forming stripes. The adult beetles are often attracted to lights. Polyphylla lay their eggs on soil near plants from where the larvae hatch and burrow down to the roots on which they will feed. They reach maturity in two to three years. This species occurs in the Atascadero to Paso Robles area but has not been reported near Morro Bay. California linderiella (Linderiella occidentalis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. This is a species of fairy shrimp is a typical Brachinectid anostracan. It is the most common fairy shrimp in the Central Valley and has been documented in most landforms, geologic formations and soil types supporting vernal pools in California. Its range is from Shasta County south to Fresno County and across the valley to the Coast and Transverse Ranges from Mendocino County to Ventura County. California linderiella (California fairy shrimp) tend to live in large, fairly clear vernal pools

54 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 54 and lakes but can also inhabit smaller pools. They can also survive in clear to turbid water with a ph of with temperature ranges of 5 29 C (41 84 F), making them the most heat tolerant fairy shrimp in California. The biggest threat to California linderiella is destruction and contamination of their vernal pool habitats. No vernal pools or suitable habitats occur on or near the subject site. Globose dune beetle (Coelus globosus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. This dune beetle inhabits the sandy beaches and fore dunes of California's coastal dune system from central and southern California to Baja California. These beetles are primarily subterranean, tunneling through sand underneath dune vegetation. The species is somewhat widely distributed (has even colonized the California Channel islands) in spite of the fact that the adults do not have functional wings. Globose dune beetles were once common in sandy beaches and fore dunes of central and southern California but have become drastically limited in most areas. Major threats to this species is the destruction of fore dunes and the coastal dune system in California. This species occurs on coastal fore dunes. We did not find this species during our search of the site and would not expect it to occur as no fore dune habitats are present on or near the subject lot. Lompoc grasshopper (Trimerotropis occulens) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. Very little is known about this grasshopper species, but it is know to occupy sparsely vegetated rocky, gravelly areas. It has never been reported from the Morro Bay area. Its only reported occurrence locally has been in the Templeton quadrangle. Mimic tryonia =California brackish water snail (Tryonia imitator) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. It is a very small snail and part of the aquatic gastropod mollusks. It occurs in brackish water, and no habitat is present on the project site. Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. Monarch butterflies range from southern Canada to northern South America. It has also been found in Bermuda, the Solomons, New Caladonia, New Zealand, Australia, New Guinea, Ceylon, India, the Azors, and the Canary Islands. Monarch butterflies found in San Luis Obispo County migrate from the Rocky Mountain regions to the Central Coast of California. They can be found in a wide range of habitats such as fields, meadows, prairie remnants, urban and suburban parks, gardens, and roadsides. They overwinter in conifer and eucalyptus groves or groves of other large trees. Monarch butterflies go through four generations annually. The first three generations hatch from a cocoon state (also known as the pupa or chrysalis state) and live for up to six weeks, but the fourth generation continues to live for up to six or eight months so that they can migrate to a warmer climate,

55 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 55 hibernate, and then start a new first generation in the spring time. There are no tall trees or suitable habitat for Monarch butterflies on the project site. Morro blue butterfly (Plebejus icarioides morroensis) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. Morro blue butterflies are locally common March to July, with males appearing first. They fly only along the immediate coast of San Luis Obispo and western Santa Barbara Counties where they are limited to a narrow strip of dunes from Vandenberg Air Force Base to the dunes around Morro Bay. Interestingly this subspecies of blue butterflies referred to as Morro blue butterfly in not recognized by the North American Butterfly Associations standardized list of 2001 Morro blue butterflies are associated with Lupinus chamissonis (silver lupine), where it finds shelter, feeds, and lays eggs. Locally, this species is known to occur in the coastal dune scrub areas around Morro Bay. No Morro blue butterflies were observed during our site visits. However, silver lupine is a common component of the stabilized dunes east of Estero Bay and west of the subject lot. In addition, there is a stand of silver beach lupine along the western boundary of subject lot as well as the adjacent lots in the subdivision. Even though no Morro blue butterflies were observed during our site visits, the silver lupines near the subject lot could potentially provide habitat. Therefore, we recommend that no disturbance take place within the population of silver dune lupines west of the subject lot and that the potential habitat not be disturbed. No disturbance to this area is anticipated as a result of this project. Morro Bay shoulderband snail (Helminthoglypta walkeriana) is not listed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California but is considered a Species of Special Concern by the Department of Fish and Game. Historically, the shoulderband dune snail, is known to occur in limited numbers on stabilized, vegetated, Flandrian-age dunes in the vicinity of Morro Bay, California. Some additional occurrences have also been reported on older pre-flandrian dunes just south of Morro Bay. Most of the shoulderband snails habitat is in Montana de Oro and the Los Osos area. It was generally considered to occur only south of Morro Bay; however, in the last few years it has been discovered at Morro Strand State Beach. The Morro shoulderband is not a garden pest like the brown garden snail as it feeds on decaying vegetation instead of live plants. However, the brown garden snail may colonize sites to the exclusion of shoulderband snails. Morro shoulderband snails are usually found in moist areas under bushes or vegetative duff. They are usually found in coastal dune scrub vegetation composed of such plants as Lupinus chamissonis (silver beach lupine) and Ericameria ericoides, (mock heather). However, they have also been reported under the litter of non-native species such as ice plant, narrow-leafed ice plant, veldt grass, and European beach grass.

56 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 56 The primary threat to Morro shoulderband snail is habitat destruction and degradation due to urban development, human impacts such as off-road vehicles, and invasion of non-native, weedy plant species, such as the vegetation on the subject lot. There are potential habitats for the shoulderband snail in the coastal dune scrub vegetation east of Estero Bay and west of the subject lot. It is also possible that they could be found in the large patch of ice plant on the lot, but this is unlikely. We searched the subject lot and areas immediately around the lot for shoulderband snails or shells of the snail. None were found during our site visits; however, we recommend that the lot be searched just before construction, and if shoulderband snails are found, they should be placed in appropriate habitats in the coastal dune scrub west of the subject lot. San Luis Obispo pyra (Pyrgulopsis taylori) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. The distribution of Pyrgulopsis includes Western and Southwestern United States. Snails of species in the genus Pyrgulopsis occur largely in brackish water and no appropriate habitats occur on the subject site. Sandy beach tiger beetle (Cicindela hirticollis gravida) is not listed by either the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the State of California. These beetles are a member of the Order Coleoptera and Family Cicindelidae. They are highly active terrestrial predators and will eat just about any arthropod they can. They are fast runners and agile fliers, making them hard to approach. They are most active on warm sunny days from spring to fall, on mud or sand, near permanent bodies of water. Tiger beetle larva build vertical burrows in the sand in the same area as adults. They are commonly found along the southern California coastline. No signs of this beetle were found on or near the site and we do not believe appropriate habitat occurs for this species on the subject site. Vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi) is a species of freshwater crustacean and a fairy shrimp that is a typical Brachinectid anostracan. This species is endemic to southern Oregon and parts of California where it is restricted to vernal pools. They range in size from 0.43 to 0.98 inches (11 to 25 mm) long and can survive in water temperatures between 43 F and 68 F. In California, fairy shrimp have been found in over 30 locations in the Central Valley from Shasta to Tulare County and in the Coast Ranges from Solano to San Benito County. They have also been found in San Luis Obispo County (Soda Lake) and Santa Barbara County as well as in limited sites in southern California. It does not occur on the project site, as there are no vernal pools or appropriate habitats.

57 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 57 APPENDIX 3. PHOTOS OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE MORRO BAY, CA ON FOLLOWING PAGES

58 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 58 Photo 1. View of the subject lot at 3093 Beachcomber Drive, Morro Bay, CA from Beachcomber Drive. A large patch of Carpobrotus edulis (ice plant) and weedy grasses and forbs cover this lot. Sand dunes and Estero Bay are visible in the background west of the lot. Photo 2. View of the large patch of Carpobrotus edulis (ice plant) from the southwestern corner (the pipe marker shown by black arrow) of the property looking east toward the homes on Beachcomber Drive. The shade from the neighbor s home is on the right.

59 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 59 Photo 3. View of the large patch of ice plant along the western half of the subject lot, which extends southward behind the neighborhood houses. Ice plant extends beyond the western boundary of the subject lot in this area. Note the large number of silver lupines (grey-green shrub) in the coastal dune scrub. Photo 4. Ice plant extends down to the edge of the coastal dune scrub behind the lot. Silver lupines (grey-green shrub) are short lived and several of the ones along the western boundary of the subject lot were dead during our site visits.

60 BIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF 3093 BEACHCOMBER DRIVE, MORRO BAY, CA 60 Photo 5. View of the northwest corner post of the subject lot (black arrow). The northwestern boundary of the lot is lined by silver lupines, which should be fenced and protected during construction. The northwest corner of the subject lot is the only area in which the lot extends down to the edge of the silver lupines. Ice plant extends beyond the property boundaries along the southern portion of the western boundary.