HomeMy WebLinkAboutPA2023-0137_20230726_Initial Resource Survey dated 06-14-23
1010 E. Union Street
Suite 203
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.204.6170 phone
626.204.6171 fax
esassoc.com
June 14, 2023
Craig Macomber
1812 Galaxy Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 Subject: Biological Resources Assessment Report for 1812 Galaxy Drive, Newport Beach, California
Dear Craig Macomber:
Environmental Science Associates (ESA) appreciates the opportunity to submit this Biological Resources
Assessment letter report (BRA) summarizing the results of a biological assessment conducted for the remodeling
of an existing single-family home located at 1812 Galaxy Drive in the City of Newport Beach (City), Orange
County, California (project site). This BRA includes the results of ESA’s initial site reconnaissance biological
resources assessment provided for the project site and a 300-foot buffer (survey area).
Introduction
The project site is comprised of a single-family residence and is situated on a 0.21-acre parcel overlooking the
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve (Upper Newport Bay) within the eastern portion of
the survey area. The residence is located within an urban residential area and is setback from the bluff of the
adjacent Upper Newport Bay along its eastern extent. The existing property is landscaped with lawn area,
ornamental plant species, and hardscape. The eastern portion of the home bordering Upper Newport Bay contains
a swimming pool, spa, hardscape, and planter box with ornamental plantings. The coastal bluff east of the project
site is dominated by ornamental vegetation with scattered native plant species. Upper Newport Bay is designated
as an Environmental Study Area in the Newport Beach Coastal Land Use Plan and drains into the Pacific Ocean
4.75 miles southeast of the project site. Portions of Upper Newport Bay are also designated as an Ecological
Reserve by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
ESA’s project team included senior biologist Johanna Page for biological support. The resume of ESA staff
involved in this project is provided in Attachment A, Resume.
Project Location
The approximately 0.21-acre project site is located at 1812 Galaxy Drive as Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 117-
652-02, in the City of Newport Beach in Orange County, California (Figure 1, Regional Location Map). The
project site is in a residential area surrounded by urban development to the north, west, and south, and Upper
Newport Bay to the east. The project site is located approximately 1.6 miles north of California State Route (SR)
1 (also commonly referred to as Pacific Coast Highway), 1.5 miles east of SR 55, 2.4 miles south of SR 73, and
1.1 miles west of Jamboree Road. More specifically, the project site is in the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Newport Beach 7.5-minute quadrangle and bordered by Galaxy Drive to the west and Upper Newport Bay to the
east (Figure 2, Project Vicinity Map).
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
Page 2
Project Description
The proposed project entails remodeling the existing residential structure to include a new room, minor garage
extension, and replacement of the existing wall, planters, and gates with a new cast stone wall and gates at the
front (western portion) of the single-family house. The remodel will be constructed within the property boundary
approximately 115 feet west and on the opposite side of the property from the Upper Newport Bay Nature
Preserve and Ecological Reserve.
Biological Resources and Constraints Analysis
Methodology
Literature Review
ESA reviewed available relevant literature and data on sensitive habitats and species distribution to determine
those special-status resources that have the potential to occur within the project site. The literature review
included an inquiry of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB; CDFW 2023a), the California Native
Plant Society (CNPS) Rare Plants Online Inventory (CNPS 2023), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Critical Habitat Portal (USFWS 2023a), National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Data Mapper (USFWS 2023b), and
USGS National Hydrography Dataset (NHD; USGS 2023) which provide information regarding special-status
species, sensitive plant communities, and aquatic resources known to occur in the region of the selected database
search for the Newport Beach USGS topographic quadrangle in addition to the Tustin and Laguna Beach
quadrangles. Other relevant documents reviewed include:
• The City of Newport Beach Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan (CLUP) (2005, as amended 2018);
• The City of Newport Beach General Plan (2006), especially the Natural Resources Element; and
• The Orange County Central-Coastal Natural Communities Conservation Plan and Habitat Conservation Plan
(NCCP/HCP) Subregional Plan (1996).
Site Reconnaissance
Subsequent to the literature review, a site reconnaissance survey was conducted by ESA senior biologist Johanna
Page on May 25, 2023, to identify and document the existing biological resources on the project site, including an
inspection of the adjacent portion of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve. The survey
was conducted from 0900 to 1030 during favorable weather conditions with temperature around 61° Fahrenheit,
overcast skies, and wind speeds between 0 and 2 miles per hour. ESA’s biologist walked the entire project site to
determine what, if any, native habitats occur on the project site that may provide suitable habitat for special-status
plant or wildlife species. Adjacent areas inaccessible during the site reconnaissance survey were assessed via
binoculars. All incidental, visual observations of flora and fauna, including sign (i.e., presence of scat) as well as
any audible detections, were noted during the site reconnaissance survey and described in this report.
The presence of other sensitive biological resources such as sensitive natural communities, jurisdictional waters
and wetlands, wildlife corridors, and biological resources protected by a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), a
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Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP), or local policies was searched and identified, if present. Natural
communities and land use were characterized to map their extent and quantify their amounts within the study
area using ArcGIS software. Plant taxonomy followed The Jepson Manual: Vascular Plants of California,
Second Edition (Baldwin, et al. 2012), and plant community descriptions were characterized using A Manual of
California Vegetation (Sawyer et al. 2009). Plant communities, land uses, and habitats not identified within the
vegetation manual were characterized based on species dominance. A complete list of plant and wildlife species
observed was documented, vegetation communities were mapped on an aerial in ArcGIS Field Maps, and
representative site photographs were taken. A list of all species observed in the study area is found in
Attachment B, Floral and Faunal Species Compendia and site photographs are depicted in Attachment C, Site
Photographs.
Existing Conditions
The project site is developed within a residential development west of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
and Ecological Reserve, the largest of the remaining natural estuarine ecosystems in Southern California, within
the City of Newport Beach. The Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve (preserve) includes 142 acres of coastal
bluffs surrounding the bay and is managed by Orange County. The preserve was designed to protect, restore, and
enhance the natural environment of the coastal habitat while also providing recreational and learning
opportunities to the public. The Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve (reserve) is a 752-acre estuary, which is
owned and managed by CDFW. The reserve property consists of salt marsh, mudflat, and marine habitats that
provide an important stopover for birds along the Pacific Flyaway. The Upper Newport Bay is also a State Marine
Conservation Area (SMCA) making it unlawful to injure, damage, take, or possess any living, geological, or
cultural marine resource, except recreational take of finfish by hook-and-line from shore only.
Regional Resource Planning Context
The project site is mapped within the Coastal Subregion of the County of Orange NCCP/HCP, and within the
Coastal Zone as regulated by the California Coastal Act. The proposed project will be required to demonstrate
consistency with the local City of Newport Beach policies and the Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) regulations and
has a land use designation of RSD-A, Single Unit Residential Detached.
Policies and guidance for resource planning in the City are provided by the City’s Open Space and Conservation
Elements of the General Plan (2006), which was merged into the Natural Resources Element to avoid duplication.
The California Coastal Act policies are primarily accomplished through the City’s certified Local Coastal
Program (LCP), which is a coastal management plan mandated by the California Coastal Act of 1976 and
includes a CLUP and Implementation Plan. The City received certification of its LCP from the California Coastal
Commission with an effective date of January 30, 2017. Undeveloped areas supporting natural habitats that may
be capable of supporting sensitive biological resources within the City’s LCP are referred to as Environmental
Study Areas (ESAs). Within the Coastal Zone, portions of the ESAs that contain sensitive or rare species are
referred to as Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs) per the California Coastal Act.
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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“ESHAs are areas in which “plant or animal life of their habitats are either rare or are especially
valuable because of their special nature or role in an ecosystem that could easily be disturbed or
degraded by human activities of developments.’ The California Coastal Act requires that ESHAs be
protected against any significant disruption of habitat values. Only uses dependent on those resources
are allowed within ESHAs and adjacent development must be sited and designed to prevent impacts that
would significantly degrade the ESHA and must be compatible with the continuance of the ESHA.”
According to the City’s Natural Resources Element of the General Plan, the project site is not located within an
ESA and does not contain ESHAs. The Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve and Ecological Preserve is
designated as the West Bay and Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park ESAs (City of Newport Beach 2005;
2006). Upper Newport Bay is a protected area that supports special-status plant communities, plant, and wildlife
species; thus, may be subjected to various threats from the surrounding urban environment including degraded
water quality, traffic, noise, public access, development encroachment, erosion and sedimentation, dredging or
filling, stormwater runoff, invasive species, and feral animals (City of Newport Beach 2006).
Although the West Bay and Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park ESAs occur within the eastern portion of the
survey area, the project site is developed and surrounded by a developed residential community to the north, west,
and south, and does not provide any natural communities that provide suitable habitat for special-status resources.
Topography and Soils
The topography within the project site is generally flat with elevations ranging from approximately 80 to 90 feet
above mean sea level (amsl). One soil type was mapped within the project site, Calleguas clay loam, 50 to 75
percent slopes, eroded (NRCS 2023). Calleguas soil consists of well drained soils comprised of residuum
weathered from calcareous shale. The depth to duripan is less than 60 inches, and the typical soil profile consists
of clay loam 0-11 inches, very channery clay loam 11-15 inches, and bedrock 15-59 inches.
Natural Communities and Land Cover Types
The natural vegetation communities and land cover types characterized and mapped within the survey area are
depicted in Figure 3, Vegetation Communities and Land Cover Types, and their respective acreages are provided
in Table 1, Natural Communities and Land Cover Types. No natural vegetation communities were mapped within
the project site or areas north, west, or south of the project site. A complete list of plant species observed within
the study area, including plants considered to be non-native invasive plants by the California Invasive Plant
Council, is provided in Attachment B. Each land cover type is described in detail below.
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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TABLE 1 NATURAL COMMUNITIES AND LAND COVER TYPES
Natural Vegetation Community/Land Cover Type Project Site (acres) 300-foot Buffer (acres) Total (acres)
Natural Vegetation Communities
California Cordgrass Marsh -- 0.18 0.18
Disturbed California Brittle Bush Scrub -- 1.29 1.29
Estuary -- 0.31 0.31
Pickleweed Mats -- 0.65 0.65
Developed/Disturbed Land Cover Types
Developed 0.21 5.59 5.80
Ornamental -- 1.37 1.37
TOTAL 0.21 9.39 9.60
SOURCE: Table produced by ESA, 2023.
Project Site and Residential Areas to the North, West, and South
Developed
The entire 0.21-acre project site and areas to the north, west, and south of the project site in the survey area are
located within a developed residential community. The project site is developed with a single-family residence
and hardscape, including a short driveway, paved walkways, a pool, spa, and patio area. Ornamental landscaping
associated with the project site and survey area includes coral tree (Erythrina spp.), Chinese banyon (Ficus
microcarpa), Japanese cheesewood (Pittosporum tobira), carrotwood (Cupaniopsis anacardioides), Chinese
plum-yew (Cephalotaxus fortunei), black rose (Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’), curly jade plant (Crassula ovata),
paperflower (Bougainvillea glabra), Peruvian lily (Alstroemeria aurea), common daisy (Bellis perennis),
glandular Cape marigold (Dimorphotheca sinuata), dusty miller (Jacobaea maritima ssp. maritima), African
daisy (Osteospermum ecklonis), Sprenger’s asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus CV. Sprengeri), and Kentucky
bluegrass (Poa pratensis). This land cover type is not recognized or described by CDFW and would not be
considered sensitive by CDFW or the City based on the high level of disturbance and non-native species
prevalent in this land cover.
Upper Newport Bay Vegetation Communities to the East
California Cordgrass Marsh
California cordgrass marsh (Spartina foliosa Herbaceous Alliance) was observed in the survey area (in Upper
Newport Bay) approximately 210 feet east of the project site. California cordgrass (Spartina foliosa) is the
dominant species in a mudflat area immediately west of the estuary where the shore is exposed at low tide.
California cordgrass marsh is designated as S3.2G3; thus, recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW
and also by the City.
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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Disturbed California Brittle Bush Scrub
Disturbed California brittle bush scrub (Encelia californica Shurbland Alliance) occurs approximately 30 feet
southeast of the project site within the coastal bluff area and is downslope of mapped ornamental vegetation. This
community is dominated by California brittle bush (Encelia californica) and black mustard (Brassica nigra) with
scattered individual Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius), pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), coyote
brush (Baccharis pilularis), and sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) plants also occurring throughout this
habitat. California brittle bush scrub is designated as S3G3; thus, recognized as a sensitive community by CDFW
and also by the City. However, the disturbed California brittle bush scrub is comprised of approximately 35%
non-native species including black mustard, pampas grass, and Brazilian peppertree; thus, provides lower quality
habitat for special-status species.
Estuary
Upper Newport Bay estuary occurs in the eastern portion of the survey area, approximately 270 feet east of the
project site. Upper Newport Bay is a coastal wetland that allows fresh water from upstream to mix with saltwater
from the Pacific Ocean downstream to meet and mix forming a unique ecosystem that is home to many wildlife
species. Estuary is not a recognized community by CDFW; however, would be considered sensitive by CDFW
and also by the City because of the unique ecological setting.
Ornamental
The coastal bluff area, immediately east of the project site, is dominated by ornamental vegetation consisting
almost exclusively of Brazilian peppertree, with blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon), oleander (Nerium oleander),
Washington fan palm trees (Washingtonia robusta), pampas grass, cape leadwort (Plumbago auriculata), and
black mustard also scattered throughout the area. This land cover type is not recognized by CDFW and would not
be considered sensitive by CDFW, or by the City based on the high level of non-native species prevalent in this
land cover.
Pickleweed Mats
Pickleweed mats (Salicornia pacifica Herbaceous Alliance) have pickleweed (Salicornia pacifica) as the
dominant species and occur in the survey area (in Upper Newport Bay) east of the coastal bluff area
approximately 190 feet east of the project site. This form of coastal saltmarsh habitat was mapped just outside of
the mudflat area dominated by California cordgrass marsh. Pickleweed mats are designated as S3G4; thus,
recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW and also by the City.
Sensitive Natural Communities
“Sensitive” natural communities and habitats are defined by CDFW as those natural communities that have a
reduced range and/or are imperiled because of various forms of development and other anthropogenic stressors,
including residential and commercial expansion, various forms of agriculture, energy production, mining, etc.
These communities are evaluated using NatureServe’s Heritage Methodology (NatureServe 2018), which is based
on the knowledge of range and distribution of a specific vegetation type and the proportion of occurrences that
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are of good ecological integrity. Evaluation is done at both a global (natural range within and outside of
California [G]) and subnational (State level for California [S]) level, each ranked from 1 (“critically imperiled” or
very rare and threatened) to 5 (demonstrably secure). A community or habitat with a State rank of S1 through S3
is considered a “sensitive” natural community and may require review when evaluating environmental impacts
(CDFW 2023b). Additionally, Section 30107.5 of the Coastal Act defines an environmentally sensitive area as
“an area in which plant of animal life or their habitats are either rare or especially valuable because of their
special nature or role in an ecosystem and which could be easily disturbed or degraded by human activities and
developments” (City of Newport Beach 2005). Section 30240 of the Coastal Act requires that “ESHAs be
protected against any significant disruption of habitat values” (City of Newport Beach 2005). Natural
communities that have been identified as rare by CDFW, the presence of coastal streams, and the degree of
habitat integrity and connectivity to other natural areas were considered when determining whether habitat meets
the statutory definition of ESHA.
The natural communities presumed to meet the definition of ESHA under the Coastal Act in Newport Beach
include southern dune scrub, southern coastal bluff scrub, maritime succulent scrub, southern maritime chaparral,
southern willow scrub, southern cottonwood willow riparian forest, southern arroyo willow forest, southern black
willow forest, southern sycamore alder riparian woodland, and southern coastal purple needlegrass grassland
(City of Newport Beach 2005).
No sensitive natural communities were mapped within the project site during the site reconnaissance survey. The
pickleweed mats (southern coastal salt marsh; S3G4), California cordgrass marsh (southern coastal salt marsh on
mudflats; S3.2G3), and estuary (coastal stream) on the eastern extent of the survey area (approximately 40 to 300
feet east of the project site) in Upper Newport Bay would likely be considered sensitive natural communities
under CDFW and an ESHA per the CLUP. Although California brittle bush scrub (southern coastal bluff scrub;
S3G3) habitat is typically considered a sensitive natural community, this habitat is heavily disturbed and
encroached upon by invasive ornamental plants; and thus, is unlikely to support special-status biological
resources. The remodeling activities will not impact sensitive natural communities, ESAs, or ESHAs, as the
remodeling will occur only within the currently developed land cover area.
Flora
The project site is located within a relatively developed residential property that is dominated by hardscape with
ornamental lawn and cultivated ornamental plants scattered throughout the western portion of the property, as
well as along the northern and southern property line. Ornamental plants in the eastern portion of the property
were contained within a planter box and are potted. A total of 45 plant species were recorded within the survey
area, of which 5 (11%) of the recorded plant species were native and 40 (89%) were non-native. No native plant
species were observed within the project site. All the native plant species were recorded in the eastern portion of
the survey area in Upper Newport Bay, downslope of the project site. A list of all plant species observed in the
study area is found in Attachment B.
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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Fauna
A total of 15 bird species were detected during the reconnaissance site visit including red-shouldered hawk
(Buteo lineatus), Canada goose (Branta canadensis), great blue heron (Ardea herodias), snowy egret (Egretta
thula), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), common raven (Corvus corax), house finch (Haemorhous
mexicanus), lesser goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), hooded oriole (Icterus cucullatus), Caspian tern (Hydroprogne
caspia), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), California
towhee (Melozone crissalis), western grebe (Aechmophorus occidentalis), and Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte
anna). All birds detected were observed within the survey area. The only bird recorded on the project site was
Anna’s hummingbird, which was observed foraging within ornamental plant species on site during the site
reconnaissance survey. No active bird nests were observed within the survey area during the site reconnaissance
survey. No mammal, reptile, amphibian, or fish species were observed during the site visit; however, species
expected to occur include western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), common side-blotched lizard (Uta
stansburiana), and Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana). A list of all wildlife species observed in the study
area is found in Attachment B.
Special-Status Plant and Wildlife Species
No special-status plant or wildlife species designated as rare, threatened, or endangered by either CDFW or the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFS) were observed on site or have the potential to occur within the project site.
Furthermore, no plant or wildlife species considered sensitive by CDFW, USFWS, and/or CNPS (e.g., CDFW
Species of Special Concern, CDFW Watch List, or California Rare Plant Rank designation 1B or 2B species)
were observed on site during the site reconnaissance survey or has the potential to occur within the project site.
Consistent with Coastal Act Section 30107.5 (City of Newport Beach 2005), the project site is developed with
ornamental lawn on the western side of the property and scattered ornamental plants with limited potential to
support special-status species and does not constitute an ESHA. Attachment D, Special-Status Species with
Potential to Occur in the Project Site provides a list of special-status plant and wildlife species known to occur
within the Newport Beach, Tustin, and Laguna Beach USGS quadrangles.
Upper Newport Bay is well studied and provides potentially suitable habitat for a variety of special-status plant
and wildlife species, including:
Special-Status Plants
• Davidson’s saltscale (Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii; CRPR 1B.2)
• Estuary seablite (Suaeda esteroa; CRPR 1B.2)
• Salt marsh bird’s beak (Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum; FE, SE, CRPR 1B.2)
• San Bernardino aster (Symphyotrichum defoliatum; CRPR 1B.2)
• South Coast saltscale (Atriplex pacifica; CRPR 1B.2)
• Southern tarplant (Centromadia parryi ssp. australis; CRPR 1B.1)
• Western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis; CRPR 4.2)
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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Special-Status Wildlife
• American peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum; FP)
• Belding’s savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi; BCC, SE)
• California black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus; ST, FP)
• California brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus; FP)
• California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni; FE, SE, FP)
• Coastal cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus sandiegensis; BCC, SSC, NCCP/HCP)
• Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica; FT, SSC, NCCP/HCP)
• Light-footed Ridgway’s rail (Rallus obsoletus levipes; FE, SE, FP)
• Osprey (Pandion haliaetus; WL)
• White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus, FP)
• Yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens, SSC)
• Yellow rail (Coturnicops noveboracensis; BCC, SSC)
• Western pond turtle (Emys marmorata; SSC)
• Southern California saltmarsh shrew (Sorex ornatus salicornicus, SSC)
Although these species are known to occur within Upper Newport Bay, the portion of the survey area in Upper
Newport Bay, east of the project site, is heavily disturbed by non-native and invasive Brazilian peppertree,
pampas grass, oleander, blackwood acacia, and mustard. Therefore, the habitat within the coastal bluff areas
provides lower quality habitat to support special-status species. No special-status species were detected within the
survey area during the site visit. Furthermore, the project remodeling activities are proposed to occur on the
western side of the property (opposite Upper Newport Bay), further reducing any potential impacts to special-
status species. As a result, special-status species, if present, are not anticipated to be impacted by the proposed
project activities.
Aquatic Resources
The survey area was analyzed to determine the presence and distribution of jurisdictional aquatic resources and
coastal streams. The project site does not contain water features that would be regulated under the jurisdiction of
CDFW, Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE).
The Newport Bay Watershed consists of all waters draining into Newport Bay, which is made up of the Upper
Bay and the Lower Bay. The Upper Bay (Upper Newport Bay) is a high-quality estuary that contains a State
Ecological Reserve and receives water from numerous tributaries including San Diego Creek (the main tributary),
Peters Canyon Wash, and Santa Ana – Delhi Channel draining downstream to Lower Bay and emptying into the
Pacific Ocean approximately 4.8 miles south of the project site. Newport Upper Bay estuary, as well as the
adjacent mudflat and southern coastal salt marsh would be regulated under the jurisdiction of CDFW, RWQCB,
and ACOE. However, the remodeling activities are not proposed to impact any jurisdictional water features and
regulatory aquatic resources are absent from the project site.
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Wildlife Movement
Migration corridors are navigable pockets or strips of land that connect larger tracts of open space together,
allowing them to function as a greater habitat complex. These “passages” can exist on a small scale, allowing
wildlife to pass through or under an otherwise uninhabitable area including a roadway, housing development, or
City through drainage culverts, green belts and waterways; or on a larger scale, providing an opportunity for
wildlife to skirt large topographical features (e.g., mountains, lakes, streams) by utilizing adjacent canyons,
valleys and upland swaths when migrating. The project site is developed and does not provide potential habitat to
function as an important migration corridor. Wildlife likely use Upper Newport Bay as a migration corridor. The
remodeling activities are planned to occur on the west side of the house and would take place during daylight
hours when wildlife is not typically migrating. New lighting is designed to be directed toward the house and away
from the adjacent Upper Newport Bay area. As a result, the proposed project would not impact important
migration corridors.
Results
The project site does not provide suitable habitat for special-status plant or wildlife species recorded by the
CNDDB or CNPS for the Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, or Tustin, California USGS 7.5-minute topographic
quadrangles. The project site is currently developed with residential uses including ornamental landscaping and
hardscape (0.21 acres), which does not provide suitable habitat or soil to support special-status plants known to
occur within the City. Additionally, the vegetation communities on the project site do not provide suitable habitat
to support special-status wildlife. The proposed remodeling activities are estimated to impact 0.02 acre of
developed land cover.
Upper Newport Bay within the eastern portion of the study area supports pickleweed mats (southern coastal salt
marsh), California cordgrass marsh (mudfat marsh), and estuary (coastal wetland), which are considered sensitive
natural communities or coastal waters by CDFW. These habitats qualify as environmentally sensitive habitat
areas under the Coastal Act and the City of Newport Beach CLUP. The disturbed California brittle bush scrub
(coastal bluff area) is heavily disturbed and thus less likely to be considered a high-quality ESHA habitat in its
existing condition. These natural plant communities are not proposed to be impacted by the proposed remodeling
activities, which are minor and will occur on the opposite side (west side) of the house closest to Galaxy Drive,
approximately 115 feet west of Upper Newport Bay. The landscaped area around the residential structures and the
adjacent natural communities and naturalized ornamental landscape in the survey area may provide habitat for
common nesting bird species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game
Code Section 3500, which protects nesting birds during the breeding season (typically February through August).
No nests or nesting birds were observed during the site reconnaissance.
There are no natural drainage features or wetlands on the project site. Upper Newport Bay lies 200 feet east of the
project site and flows south into the Pacific Ocean approximately 4.8 miles south of the project site. The project
site is located within a residential community of the City of Newport Beach and does not function as a wildlife
linkage or corridor, particularly for small to medium sized mammals. Additionally, the proposed project would
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
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not have indirect impacts to Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve located immediately to
the east of the project site.
The project site occurs within the Coastal Subregion of the County of Orange NCCP/HCP. Compliance with the
NCCP/HCP policies would be implemented through compliance with the City’s policies regarding biological
resources such as the City’s CLUP.
Recommendations
The project site reconnaissance survey occurred in May, within the blooming period for plants and the avian
breeding season. No suitable habitat for special-status plants or bird nests were observed during the survey. The
project site provides minimal suitable habitat for bird species to potentially nest on site. In order to avoid potential
impacts to bird species that may nest on the project site and adjacent study area, project activities including
removal of vegetation and structures should take place outside of the avian breeding season of February 1 through
August 31 of each year. If project construction activities cannot avoid the breeding season, a pre-construction
nesting bird survey should be conducted within three days prior to construction activities to determine the
presence/absence of any nesting birds on the project site and immediate vicinity. If any active nests are
discovered during the pre-construction survey, a suitable buffer will be established around the nest (initially, a
minimum of 50-feet for passerines and 100-feet for raptors if either is present) and no construction activities will
be allowed to encroach into the buffer without permission from a monitoring biologist or until the nest is no
longer active. Buffer distances may be reduced at the discretion of the monitoring biologist based on the bird
species sensitivity and proximity of the nest to active construction activities. The buffer will remain in place until
it can be verified that the nest is no longer active.
The proposed project activities are planned to occur on the west side of the house (opposite Upper Newport Bay)
and would not impact special-status biological resources or encroach onto the natural communities in Upper
Newport Bay. Where changes to landscaped areas are proposed, it is recommended that invasive, non-native plant
species rated by the California Invasive Plant Council’s Invasive Plant Inventory as “high” or “moderate” (i.e.,
pampas grass, English ivy (Hedera helix), Washington fan palm, black mustard, sea fig (Carpobrotus chilensis),
and Brazilian peppertree) be avoided for future landscaping use on site.
Conclusion
The proposed project would not result in any potential impacts to special-status plant or wildlife species, or
sensitive natural plant communities. There is no natural drainage feature on the project site. Remodeling activities
associated with the project site could cause potential construction impacts to nesting birds, if construction
activities occur during the breeding season. Pre-construction nest surveys, monitoring, and establishing a buffer
around an active nest would avoid direct impacts to nesting birds.
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
Page 12
References
Baldwin, B. G., D. H. Goldman, D. J. Keil, R. Patterson, T. J. Rosatti, and D. H. Wilken, editors. 2012. The Jepson Manual, Vascular Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, California.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2023a. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) RareFind 5 Online Database. Accessed May 24, 2023.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2023b. Sensitive Natural Communities. Sacramento, CA: CDFW, Natural Heritage Division, 2021. https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/VegCAMP/Natural-Communities. Accessed May 25, 2023.
California Native Plant Society. 2018. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California. Accessed May 24, 2023.
City of Newport Beach. 2005. Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan. Accessed June 1, 2023.
City of Newport Beach. 2006. City of Newport Beach General Plan. Adopted July 5, 2006. Accessed June 1, 2023.
Jepson Flora Project. 2023. Jepson eFlora. Berkeley, California: University of California.
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/IJM.html. Accessed June 1, 2023.
Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2023. Web Soil Survey.
https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/HomePage.htm: Accessed May 24, 2023.
Sawyer, J.O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J.M. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation, Second Edition.
California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. 1300 pp.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2023a. Critical Habitat Portal. https://fws.maps.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=9d8de5e265ad4fe09893cf75b8dbfb77:
Accessed May 24, 2023.
USFWS. 2023b. National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Data Mapper. Accessed on May 24, 2023, at
https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/Mapper.html.
Should you have any questions or require additional information please contact me at (626) 677-7680 or
jpage@esassoc.com.
Sincerely,
Johanna Page
Principal Biologist/Senior Project Manager
Craig Macomber June 14, 2023
Page 13
Attachments
Figure 1 Regional Location
Figure 2 Vicinity Map
Figure 3 Vegetation and Land Uses
Figure 4 Environmental Study Area
Attachment A: Resume
Attachment B: Floral and Faunal Species Compendium
Attachment C: Site Photographs
Attachment D: Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Figures
Q o __ _,===------\:1 US Feet
SOURCE: ESA, 2023
c::::J Project Site c::::J Buffer 300ft
Vegetation Type
California Cordgrass Marsh
-Development
-Disturbed California Brittle Bush Scrub
Estuary
-Ornamental
Pickleweed Mats
1812 Galaxy Drive Project
Figure 3
Vegetation Communities
and Land Cover Map
US Feet
SOURCE: ESA, 2023
Environmental Study Area
California Cordgrass Marsh
-Development
-Disturbed California Brittle Bush Scrub
-Estuary
-Ornamental
Pickleweed Mats
1812 Galaxy Drive Project
Figure 4
Environmental Study Area
Attachment A
Resume
Johanna Page
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
Johanna Page is an experienced project manager and biologist with an extensive history
performing field assessments, permitting, and project management. She has a
comprehensive scientific knowledge of Southern California ecosystems and associated
protected biological resources with expertise in relevant local, state, and federal laws and
regulations and coordinating with resource agencies. Johanna is adept at planning and
executing large and small-scale projects, including but not limited to habitat assessment
and surveys, vegetation mapping, special-status species surveys, nesting bird surveys,
biological technical reports, focused survey reports, and environmental permitting
preparation and implementation.
Relevant Experience (Additional Experience Available Upon Request)
Big Canyon Nature Park Resource and Recreation Management Plan (RRMP), New
Irvine Ranch Conservancy, Newport Beach, California. Senior Biologist. Johanna
conducted biological surveys for burrowing owl and special-status riparian bird surveys
within the 72-acre Big Canyon Nature Park study area. She assisted with vegetation
mapping efforts and performing protocol level surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher.
Johanna contributed to the development of the Big Canyon Nature Park RRMP, which
provides a comprehensive, long-term management plan as guidance on future policy,
land use, and resource management decisions. The plan includes the results of surveys
conducted within Big Canyon, which encompasses approximately 50 acres of open space
for wildlife and recreational use.
Avian and Vegetation Pilot Monitoring Studies for the Initial Management Action Plan
(IMAP), Rancho Mission Viejo Land Trust, Orange County, California. Field Biologist.
Johanna served as biological surveyor for pilot monitoring studies conducted to test and
determine the feasibility of the field methods proposed within the IMAP. She collected
data to assist with the management and monitoring of covered species in the Southern
Subregion Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) Habitat Reserve. She performed avian point
count surveys to accumulate occurrence data for focal riparian bird species including
least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, yellow warbler, and yellow-breasted
chat. The riparian avian pilot study was conducted to estimate population size and
densities of focal riparian birds identified in the IMAP, and to track focal riparian bird
population trends. Johanna also conducted vegetation sampling within coastal sage
scrub habitat using the point intercept vegetation sampling method. Vegetation sampling
was conducted as part of a pilot study to determine the most appropriate protocol for
long-term monitoring in terms of data reliability, accuracy, and effort as it pertains to
practicality and cost. Survey results were used to provide feedback for management
decision making and the finite resources typically available for these programs.
EDUCATION
BS, Biology (Ecology
Emphasis), Minor in
Geography, Humboldt
State University
17 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
CERTIFICATIONS/
REGISTRATION
USFWS, 10(a)(1)(A) Survey
Permit #TE-82155B-1,
Listed Large Branchiopod
and Coastal California
Gnatcatcher
CDFW Scientific Collecting
Permit (#SC-11375)
Blunt-Nosed Leopard
Lizard Level II Surveyor
40-hour Wetland
Delineator Training
Program
PROFESSIONAL
AFFILIATIONS
California Native Plant
Society, Member
National Audubon
Society, Member
The Wildlife Society –
Western Section, Member
Johanna Page (Continued)
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
Golden West College Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR), Coast Community College District, Orange
County, California. Lead Biologist. Johanna conducted biological resource surveys and vegetation mapping to support
preparation of EIR for modifications and new construction proposed to various community colleges in Orange County.
She assessed the project site for special-status species, including monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) potential and
habitat suitability on-site. Johanna prepared biological resource technical reports pursuant to CEQA documentation.
Newport Banning Ranch, Aera Energy LLC, Orange County, California. Field Biologist. Johanna assisted with
protocol-level surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher and San Diego fairy shrimp within suitable habitat in the
approximate 401-acre project site. She prepared various biological reports for the project, including burrowing owl and
federally listed branchiopod survey results.
O&M Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs), Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD), Orange and
San Bernardino Counties, California. Senior Biologist. Johanna conducted focused surveys for the least Bell’s vireo. She
assisted with protocol-level surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher; performed vegetation mapping efforts and
habitat analysis for special-status wildlife species, including least Bell's vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat,
western yellow bat (Lasiurus xanthinus), tri-colored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor), two-striped gartersnake, burrowing owl,
and Blainville's horned lizard along identified pipeline corridors throughout Orange and western San Bernardino
Counties. Johanna performed monitoring during geotechnical activities and provided measures to avoid impacts to
special-status species, such as coastal California gnatcatcher, special-status riparian birds, and jurisdictional waters. She
also prepared documentation to summarize methods and results of biological surveys and monitoring conducted within
the project area.
City of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation, Brush Clearing Project, Los Angeles County, CA. Principal in Charge/Senior
Project Manager/Senior Biologist. Johanna managed biological surveys, monitoring, and reporting for brush clearing
work on the City of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation property including Peck Park, Cabrillo Beach, White Point Preserve,
and Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park. She oversaw and coordinated construction training, biological construction
sweeps prior to work activities, daily reporting, and staffing for the work. She ensured that the work activities were
conducted in compliance with all project requirements, including applicable Streambed Alteration Agreements. She
coordinated and reviewed the biological report summarizing the result of biological surveys and monitoring for all
project work.
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, Rancho Palos Verdes Emergency Sewer Repair Pipeline Project,
Los Angeles County, CA. Lead Biologist and Project Manager. Johanna conducted and managed biological assessments
and construction monitoring for an emergency sewer pipeline project located along the hillside of Chadwick Trail in the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes. She met with LADPW, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, and Construction Contractor
personnel to discuss the emergency work. She performed a reconnaissance level analysis to evaluate potential impacts
to sensitive biological resources (including coastal California gnatcatcher, Palos Verdes blue butterfly, least Bell’s vireo,
and mesa horkelia). Johanna prepared the biological resources letter report summarizing avoidance and minimization
recommendations for the project. She worked with construction personnel on the installation of silt fencing and to
ensure the project was completed in compliance with all local, state, and federal laws/regulations pertaining to
biological resources, including avoidance of a jurisdictional unnamed channel located 30 feet downslope of the work
area. She provided LADPW with regular construction monitoring updates and reporting for the biological monitoring
effort. The work ultimately required emergency water permits (USACE Regional General Permit (RGP) No. 63, Regional
Water Quality Control Board Emergency Notification Form for RGP No. 63 for Repair and Protection Activities in
Johanna Page (Continued)
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
Emergency Situations, and LSAA Program Notification of Emergency Work) to install a wire cage gabion beneath and
immediately downstream of the protective concrete apron to act as an energy dissipater, which Johanna coordinated
with LADPW to prepare and obtain.
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, Mureau Road Bicycle Lane Project, Los Angeles County, CA. Lead
Biologist and Project Manager; Johanna performed biological surveys and a formal jurisdictional delineation along
Mureau Road to improve bicycle access along Mureau Road from the boundary of the City of Calabasas to a bridge
located just west of the Ventura Freeway. The central and western portions of the project site overlap with protected,
natural areas associated with the County-designated Santa Monica Mountains Significant Ecological Area (SEA). All plant
and wildlife species detected during the site visit were recorded. Johanna prepared the biological resources technical
letter report for the project.
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, Mulholland Highway Emergency Bridge Repair Project, Los
Angeles County, CA. Lead Biologist and Project Manager. Johanna conducted and managed biological assessments and
construction monitoring for an emergency bridge repair project located within the Arroyo Sequit in Unincorporated Los
Angeles County in compliance with USACE Regional General Permit No. 63. Johanna prepared and provided the Worker’s
Environmental Awareness Training for the Project, which focused on avoidance and minimization measures for
California red-legged frog. She ensured the construction activities were conducted in compliance with measures
outlined in the permit, avoiding take of special-status species including California red-legged frog and the Southern
California Distinct Population Segment of steelhead. She coordinated access with National Park Service and U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service. She also prepared and reviewed monitoring reports for the project, ensuring regular updates and
deliverables were provided on time.
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Sylmar East Filter Replacement Project, Los Angeles County, CA.
Project Manager. Johanna oversaw the biological and aquatic survey assessments for modification of an existing
drainage channel located at the western portion of the Sylmar Converter Station. She oversaw the preparation of the
biological resources report to ensure it provided an inventory of plant and wildlife detection, special-status species
occurrence, and aquatic resources analysis pursuant to CEQA.
San Bernardino County Flood Control District, Biological Services to Support Long-Term Permits, San Bernardino
County, CA. Senior Biologist. Johanna assisted with the development and implementation of a ranking system for the
San Bernardino County Flood Control District desert and mountain regions, which focused on identifying target species
based on available modeled data on habitat and species occurrence. The ranking system was created to establish a
baseline for the maintenance of each proposed flood control facility to be maintained in support of long-term permits
from the regulatory agencies, including the CDFW, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the
State Water Resources Control Board. This system was used to assign best management practices, identify potential
mitigation ratios, classify and map potential mitigation parcels, and to query various environmental attributes for
management purposes.
Tejon Ranch Corporation, Grapevine Development Project, Kern County, CA. Lead Field Wildlife Biologist. Johanna
conducted burrow and den surveys for various burrowing wildlife, including small mammals, Burrowing Owl, American
Badger, and San Joaquin Kit Fox and documented all special-status species observed. She compiled data used to
prepare the biological technical report and researched background information on sensitive wildlife species potentially
occurring within the Project area. Johanna installed camera stations with motion-sensitive cameras and reviewed
Johanna Page (Continued)
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
camera photographs for wildlife movement, Ringtail Cat, and San Joaquin Kit Fox camera studies. She also prepared the
Wildlife Corridor Study section of the Project's biological technical report and assisted with the preparation of the San
Joaquin Kit Fox wildlife movement document prepared for the project.
Diamond Valley Estates LLC, Diamond Valley Estate Project, Riverside County, CA. Principal in Charge. Johanna was
the primary author of a Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report, a Habitat Assessment Report, and a Western Riverside
County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Consistency Analysis (Analysis) for the proposed 25-acre
Diamond Valley Estate Project. The purpose of the Analysis was to summarize the biological data for the proposed
project and to document the project’s consistency with the goals and objectives of the MSHCP. She oversaw a literature
review and the preparation of a Step I: Burrowing Owl Habitat Assessment. The results of the habitat assessment
determined the presence of potentially suitable habitat to support Burrowing Owl. As a result, Johanna oversaw a
focused Step II: Locating Burrows and Burrowing Owls. The purpose of the surveys was to determine Burrowing Owl
presence or absence within the biological study area. The proposed project consists of the development of 23 residential
lots, detention basin, and associated roadways located in unincorporated Riverside County, California.
Temescal Valley Water District, Clay Canyon Sewer Pipeline Modifications Project, Riverside County, CA. Lead
Biologist. Johanna conducted vegetation mapping and habitat assessment surveys in accordance with the Western
Riverside County MSHCP for a pipeline Project on a 0.07-acre Project area in Western Riverside County. She worked with
Project Planners to avoid significant impacts to special-status biological resources. In addition, Johanna prepared the
biological technical letter report for the Project consistent with the MSHCP and CEQA.
Fountainhead Shrugged, LLC., NEC Dinah Shore Drive and Monterey Avenue Development Project, Riverside
County, CA. Lead Field Biologist. Johanna conducted a general biological survey for the 17.5-acre Project site consistent
with the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (Coachella Valley MSHCP). She mapped vegetation
communities consistent with the Coachella Valley MSHCP, created a general inventory of plant and animal species
detected, and conducted a habitat assessment for special-status resources (i.e., special-status plants, wildlife,
vegetation communities, and jurisdictional water features) that could potentially occur on-site, including Blainville's
Lizard, Coachella Valley Fringe-toed Lizard, Burrowing Owl, Golden Eagle, San Diego Desert Woodrat, Triple-ribbed Milk-
vetch, and Glandular Ditaxis. Johanna assisted with the preparation of a biological letter report for the Project consistent
with the Coachella Valley MSHCP and pursuant to CEQA.
Relenn Properties, LLC., Solana Torrance Project, Los Angeles County, CA. Senior Biologist. Johanna managed and
performed numerous biological surveys within the 25-acre Project site, including focused surveys for special-status plant
species, vegetation mapping efforts, wetland delineation, and focused surveys for burrowing owl and coastal California
gnatcatcher. Johanna led the preparation of the biological technical report for the project pursuant to CEQA, including
methods, results, and avoidance and minimization measures necessary to reduce impacts to less than significant under
CEQA.
Toll and Sentinel Peak Resources, Montebello Hills Development and Conservation Project, Los Angeles County,
CA. Lead Biological Monitor. Johanna assisted with the preparation of an updated biological resources technical report in
support of water permit application. She provided ongoing biological and monitoring support for oil field maintenance
activities to ensure compliance with various U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Opinions (BO) issued for the Project.
Performed and managed biological surveys and monitoring efforts for activities associated with the Project. Johanna
assessed with the preparation of biological resources reports and Client coordination, as required by the Project. She
Johanna Page (Continued)
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
coordinated and conducted protocol-level coastal California gnatcatcher population census surveys as a permitted
biologist, identifying over 30 coastal California gnatcatcher pairs throughout the Project site.
City of Glendora Planning Department, Silent Ranch Hillside Subdivision Project, Los Angeles County, CA. Lead
Biologist. Johanna provided overall biological support to the City of Glendora and offered strategies pertaining to
biological resources with potential to occur on the site. She conducted various biological surveys for the 27-acre
property including vegetation habitat mapping, focused plant surveys, and jurisdictional delineation. A general
inventory of plant and animal species detected was documented, as well as potential for other species to occur based on
the presence of suitable habitat. Johanna prepared a biological resources technical report to assess the likely biological
issues potentially occurring on the site based on the site visit and vegetation community mapping pursuant to CEQA.
Yihe California Pty Ltd., Bradbury Royal Oak Project, Los Angeles County, CA. Senior Biologist and Lead Field
Biologist. Johanna conducted a biological reconnaissance survey for the 12-acre Project site to create a baseline
biological resources map with vegetation communities and any identified special-status species. A general inventory of
plant and animal species detected was documented, as well as potential for other species to occur based on the
presence of suitable habitat. Jurisdictional wetlands, waters, and/or riparian habitats on-site were also documented.
Johanna prepared a biological constraints analysis letter report to assess the likely biological issues potentially
occurring on the site based on the site visit and vegetation community mapping pursuant to CEQA.
Newhall Ranch Surveys Project, Newhall Land and Farming Company, Los Angeles County, California. Senior
Biologist and Project Manager. Johanna conducted focused rare plant surveys, including documentation of San
Fernando Valley spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina), state listed as endangered and federal candidate
species; sensitive slender mariposa lily (Calochortus clavatus var. gracilis) populations; and host plants for San Emigdio
blue butterfly (Plebejus emigdionis) within the 12,000-acre project area. She performed focused surveys for grasshopper
sparrow throughout the project area; installed motion-sensitive cameras within suitable wildlife corridors, reviewed
camera station photographs, and assisted with the reporting as part of a wildlife movement study; prepared permit sub-
notification packages required by regulatory agencies to conduct authorized Covered Activities pursuant to the CDFW
Code Section 1603, Clean Water Act Sections 401 and 404, California Endangered Species Act Section 2081, and federal
Endangered Species Act Section 7; and assisted in the preparation and compilation of numerous biological reports,
jurisdictional delineations, and permitting related reports.
Professional History
Southern California Edison (SCE), Monrovia, CA. Senior Biologist. For 7 years, Johanna managed biological resources
for numerous capital projects and company programs throughout SCE’s service territory. She conducted habitat
assessments and field surveys; performed and directed biological surveys, biological reports, minimization measures,
and environmental trainings; and planned, led, and contributed to ensuring company is compliant in construction
projects.
Johanna routinely provided written requirements as clearance to begin construction on projects. She ensured the
company was compliant with all local, state, and federal laws/regulations pertaining to biological resources. In her role,
she interacted with large groups to promote the importance of protecting biological resources. She earned the
confidence of agencies to allow company to self-manage buffers associated with nesting birds and worked with resource
agencies on buffers of major concern, e.g., special-status species and raptors.
Johanna Page (Continued)
Principal Biologist
Environmental Science Associates
esassoc.com
Johanna also managed Operation and Maintenance Projects throughout SCE’s service territory. She reviewed projects
for impacts to special-status biological resources, managed biological surveys and reporting, and ensured compliance
with local, state, and federal regulations, laws, and policy. She also designed and implemented comprehensive
environmental training programs.
USDA Forest Service Goosenest Ranger District, Macdoel, CA. Wildlife Biological Technician. Johanna observed and
located nesting habitat of northern spotted owls in Klamath National Forest. She conducted night surveys and daytime
follow-ups to determine status of northern spotted owls taking into account offspring survival. She conducted additional
surveys on other Federal Protective Status bird species, including northern goshawks, bald eagles, and golden eagles.
She also contributed to identification of northern goshawk and northern spotted owl nests undocumented for many
years prior.
Professional Development
• UCLA Management Development for Entrepreneurs Online Academy, 2020
• California Tiger Salamander Terrestrial Ecology and Rare Pond Species Workshop, Santa Rosa, 2018
• Poaceae I Workshop, Berkeley, 2017
• Arroyo Toad Workshop, San Diego, 2017
• The Plant Life of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu, 2017
• California Native Plant Society Vegetation Mapping Workshop, Riverside, 2017
• Blunt-Nosed Leopard Lizard Identification Workshop, Bakersfield (2016
• Riparian and Wetland Identification Workshop, Ojai (2016
• Willow Flycatcher Workshop and Training Session, Weldon (2016
• Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp Workshop, San Diego (2015
• PSMJ Bootcamp, San Diego, 2015
• San Joaquin Kit Fox Ecology, Conservation, and Survey Techniques, Carrizo Plain, 2014
• Basic Wetland Delineation, San Diego, 2014
• Endangered Species Regulation and Protection Workshop, Sacramento, 2012
• Implementing Habitat and Natural Communities Workshop, Sacramento, 2011
• Sensitive Small Mammal Species of the San Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield, 2010
• California Tiger Salamander Workshop, Watsonville, 2010
• Avian Interactions with Power Lines Workshop, Arlington, VA, 2010; and South Bay, CA, 2009
• Water Permitting Workshop, South Bay, 2009; and Rosemead, 2008
• Bat Ecology and Field Techniques, Carrizo Plains, 2008
• Burrowing Owl Consortium, Antelope Valley, 2007
• Desert Tortoise Surveying, Monitoring, and Handling Techniques Workshop, Ridgecrest, 2006
Attachment B
Floral and Faunal Species
Compendium
ATTACHMENT B – 1812 GALAXY DRIVE
Floral and Faunal Species Compendia
1812 Galaxy Drive B-1 ESA / D202300566.00
Attachment B – Floral and Faunal Species Compendia June 2023
Family Scientific Name Common Name Nativity Within Project Site?
Special-Status?
PTERIDOPHYTES
DRYOPTERIDACEAE – WOOD FERN FAMILY
Cyrtomium falcatum Japanese netvein hollyfern cultivated Yes No
ANGIOSPERMS
DICOTS
AIZOACEAE –FIG-MARIGOLD FAMILY
Carpobrotus chilensis sea fig Cal-IPC Moderate No No
ANACARDIACEAE – SUMAC FAMILY
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian peppertree Cal-IPC Moderate No No
APOCYNACEAE – DOGBANE FAMILY
Nerium oleander oleander naturalized No No
ARALIACEAE – GINSENG FAMILY
Hedera helix English ivy Cal-IPC High Yes No
ASTERACEAE – SUNFLOWER FAMILY
Baccharis pilularis coyote brush native No No
Bellis perennis common daisy cultivated Yes No
Dimorphotheca sinuata glandular Cape marigold cultivated Yes No
Encelia californica California brittle bush native No No
Jacobaea maritima ssp. maritima Dusty miller cultivated Yes No
Osteospermum ecklonis African daisy cultivated Yes No
BRASSICACEAE – MUSTARD FAMILY
Brassica nigra black mustard Cal-IPC Moderate No No
Lobularia maritima sweet alyssum Cal-IPC Limited No No
CACTACEAE – CACTUS FAMILY
Cephalocereus senilis old man cactus cultivated Yes No
CEPHALOTAXACEAE – PLUM YEW FAMILY
Cephalotaxus fortunei Chinese plum-yew cultivated Yes No
CHENOPODIACEAE – GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
Salicornia pacifica pickleweed native No No
CONVOLVULACEAE – MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
Ipomoea nil whiteedge morning-glory cultivated Yes No
CRASSULACEAE – STONECROP FAMILY
Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ black rose cultivated Yes No
Crassula ovata curly jade plant cultivated Yes No
ERICACEAE – HEATH FAMILY
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi kinnikinnick cultivated Yes No
FABACEAE – LEGUME FAMILY
Acacia melanoxylon blackwood Cal-IPC Limited No No
Erythrina spp. coral tree cultivated Yes No
GERANIACEAE – GERANIUM FAMILY
Geranium molle dovefoot geranium naturalized Yes No
MORACEAE – MULBERRY FAMILY
Ficus microcarpa Chinese banyon cultivated Yes No
NYCTAGINACEAE – FOUR O’CLOCK FAMILY
Bougainvillea glabra paperflower cultivated Yes No
PITTOSPORACEAE – PITTOSPORUM FAMILY
Pittosporum tobira Japanese cheesewood cultivated Yes No
PLUMBAGINACEAE – LEADWORT FAMILY
Plumbago auriculata cape leadwort naturalized No No
1812 Galaxy Drive
Attachment B – Floral & Faunal Compendia
1812 Galaxy Drive B-2 ESA / D202300566.00
Appendix B – Floral and Faunal Species Compendia June 2023
Family Scientific Name Common Name Nativity Within Project Site?
Special-Status?
ROSACEAE – ROSE FAMILY
Rhaphiolepis indica Indian hawthorn cultivated Yes No
Rosa sp. rose cultivated Yes No
SALICACEAE – WILLOW FAMILY
Salix lasiolepis arroyo willow native No No
SAPINDACEAE – SOAPBERRY FAMILY
Cupaniopsis anacardioides carrotwood cultivated Yes No
SOLANACEAE – POTATO FAMILY
Solanum umbelliferum bluewitch nightshade cultivated Yes No
MONOCOTS
ARECACEAE – PALM FAMILY
Archontophoenix alexandrae Alexandra palm cultivated Yes No
Phoenix roebelenii pygmy date palm cultivated Yes No
Syagrus romanzoffiana Queen palm cultivated No No
Washingtonia robusta Washington fan palm Cal-IPC Moderate No No
LILIACEAE – LILY FAMILY
Alstroemeria aurea Peruvian lily cultivated Yes No
Asparagus densiflorus Sprenger’s asparagus fern Cal-IPC Watch Yes No
Liriope spicata creeping liriope cultivated Yes No
Zantedeschia aethiopica calla lily Cal-IPC Limited Yes No
POACEAE – GRASS FAMILY
Cortaderia selloana Pampas grass Cal-IPC High No No
Poa pratensis Kentucky bluegrass Cal-IPC Limited Yes No
Spartina foliosa California cordgrass native No No
STRELITZIACEAE – BIRD OF PARADISE FLOWER FAMILY
Ravelnala madagascariensis Traveller’s palm cultivated Yes No
Strelitzia reginae bird of paradise cultivated No No
Faunal Compendium
Class Family Family Common Name Scientific Name Common Name Within Project Site? Special-Status?
BIRDS
Accipitridae Hawks Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk No No
Anatidae Geese Branta canadensis Canada goose No No
Ardeidae Herons Ardea herodias Great blue heron No No
Ardeidae Herons Egretta thula Snowy egret No No
Columbidae Doves Zenaida macroura Mourning dove No No
Corvidae Crows and Jays Corvus corax Common raven No No
Fringillidae Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies Haemorhous mexicanus House finch No No
Fringillidae Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch No No
Icteridae Orioles Icterus cucullatus Hooded oriole No No
Laridae Terns Hydroprogne caspia Caspian tern No No
Mimidae Mockingbirds Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird No No
Parulidae Warblers Geothlypis trichas Common yellowthroat No No
Passerellidae New World Sparrows Melozone crissalis California towhee No No
Podicipedidae Grebes Aechmophorus occidentalis Western grebe No No
Trochilidae Hummingbirds Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird Yes No
Attachment C
Site Photographs
ATTACHMENT C – 1812 GALAXY DRIVE
Site Photographs
1812 Galaxy Drive Project C-1 ESA / D202300566.00
Site Photographs June 2023
Photograph 1 (E). View of the entrance to the house from Galaxy Drive.
Photograph 2 (E). View of the driveway to the house from Galaxy Drive. The
garage is proposed to be extended slightly at this location.
1812 Galaxy Drive Project C-2 ESA / D202300566.00
Site Photographs June 2023
Photograph 9 (N). View of the lawn in the front of the house where the
remodeling is proposed to occur within the western property boundary.
Photograph 10 (SW). View of the developed community on Galaxy Drive in the
survey area.
Attachment C – Site Photographs
1812 Galaxy Drive Project C-3 ESA / D202300566.00
Site Photographs June 2023
Photograph 3 (E). View of the paved walkway along the south side of the
house.
Photograph 4 (W). View of the paved walkway along the north side of the
house.
1812 Galaxy Drive Project C-4 ESA / D202300566.00
Site Photographs June 2023
Photograph 5 (NW). View of the patio, pool, spa, and planter box at the
back of the house.
Photograph 6 (NE). View of Upper Newport Bay from the back of the fenced
property line.
Attachment C – Site Photographs
1812 Galaxy Drive Project C-5 ESA / D202300566.00
Site Photographs June 2023
Photograph 7 (E). View of Upper Newport Bay in the survey area east of
the fenced property boundary. The coastal bluff is dominated by ornamental
vegetation.
Photograph 8 (SE). View of Upper Newport Bay in the survey area east of
the fenced property boundary. Estuary, mudflat, and salt marsh habitat is
visible in background.
Attachment D
Special-Status Species with Potential
to Occur in the Project Site
ATTACHMENT D – 1812 GALAXY DRIVE
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-1 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur on the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
ANGIOSPERMS (DICOTYLEDONS)
Apiaceae
(Carrot Family)
San Diego button-celery
Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii
Federal: FE
State: CE
Local: 1B.1
Apr.-Jun Coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools; grows within San Diego mesa hardpan, claypan vernal pools, southern interior basalt flow vernal pools.
Elevation range extends from 20-620 meters.
Found in San Diego and Riverside.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Asteraceae
(Sunflower Family)
southern tarplant
Centromadia parryi ssp. australis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
May-Nov Margins of marshes and swamps, valley and foothill grassland (vernally mesic), and vernal pools.
Elevation range extends from 0-425 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Orcutt’s pincushion
Chaenactis glabriuscula var. orcuttiana
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Jan.-Aug, Coastal bluff scrub (sandy), coastal dunes.
Elevation range extends from 0-100 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, San Diego, Ventura, possibly Orange counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
paniculate tarplant
Deinandra paniculata
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Apr.-Nov. Generally, vernally mesic; coastal scrub; valley and foothill grassland; vernal pools.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-2 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Elevation range extends from 25-940 meters.
Found in Orange, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara counties.
Los Angeles sunflower
Helianthus nuttallii ssp. parishii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1A
Aug.-Oct. Freshwater marsh, salt marsh.
Elevation range extends from 10-1,675 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
decumbent goldenbush
Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Apr.-Nov. Chaparral and coastal scrub; sandy, often in disturbed areas.
Elevation range extends from 10-135 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Coulter’s goldfields
Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Feb.-Jun. Salt-marsh, playas, vernal-pools, coastal; usually occurs in wetlands but occasionally in non-wetlands.
Elevation range extends from 1-1,220 meters.
Found in Orange, Riverside, Ventura, San Diego, and possibly Los Angeles, Kern and San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
cliff malacothrix
Malacothrix saxatilis var. saxatilis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Mar-Sep. Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub.
Elevation range extends from 3-200 meters.
Found in Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Allen’s pentachaeta
Pentachaeta aurea ssp. allenii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Mar.-Jun. Open coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland.
Elevation range extends from 75-520 meters.
Found in Orange County.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site area due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-3 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
chaparral ragwort
Senecio aphanactis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 2B.2
Jan.-Apr. Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub; sometimes alkaline soil.
Elevation range extends from 15-800 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
San Bernardino aster
Symphyotrichum defoliatum
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Jul.-Nov. Near ditches, springs, and streams; cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps, marshes and swamps, valley and foothill grassland (vernally mesic)
Elevation range extends from 2-2,040 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Kern, Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
big-leaved crownbeard
Verbesina dissita
Federal: FT
State: CT
Local: 1B.1
Apr.-Jul. Maritime chaparral and coastal scrub.
Elevation range extends from 45-205 meters.
Found in Orange County.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Boraginaceae
(Borage Family)
mud nama
Nama stenocarpum
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 2.B2
Jan.-Jul. Marches and swamps (lake margins, riverbanks).
Elevation range extends from 5-500 meters. Found in Orange, Riverside, San Diego, possibly Los Angeles counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
south coast branching phacelia
Phacelia ramosissima var. austrolitoralis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 3.2
Mar.-Aug. Chaparral, coastal dunes, coastal scrub, marshes, and swamps (coastal salt).
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-4 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Elevation range extends from 5-300 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Brassicaceae
(Cabbage Family)
Robinson’s pepper-grass
Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.3
Jan.-Jul. Chaparral and coastal scrub.
Elevation range extends from 1-885 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Gambel’s water cress
Nasturtium gambelii
Federal: FE
State: CT
Local: 1B.1
Apr.-Oct. Marshes or swamps.
Elevation range extends from 5-330 meters.
Found in Los Aneles, Orange, San Diego, possibly San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Chenopodiaceae
(Goosefoot Family)
aphanisma
Aphanisma blitoides
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Mar.-Jun. Sandy. Coastal bluff scrub, Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub.
Elevation range extends from 1-305 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Coulter’s Saltbush
Atriplex coulteri
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Mar.-Oct. Alkaline or clay soils; coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland.
Elevation range extends from 3-460 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Bernardino, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-5 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
South Coast saltscale
Atriplex pacifica
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Mar.-Oct. Coastal bluff scrub, Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Playas.
Elevation range extends from 0-140 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Parish’s brittlescale
Atriplex parishii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Jun.-Oct. Shadscale scrub, alkali sinks, freshwater wetlands, wetland-riparian; playas, vernal pools.
Elevation range extends from 25-1,900 meters.
Found in Orange, Riverside, San Diego, and possibly Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Davidson’s saltscale
Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Apr.-Oct. Coastal sage scrub, wetland-riparian; coastal.
Elevation range extends from 10-200 meters.
Found in Orange, Riverside, San Diego, and possibly Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
estuary seablite
Suaeda esteroa
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
May-Oct. Marshes and swamps.
Elevation range extends from 0-5 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
woolly seablite
Suaeda taxifolia
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Jan.-Dec. Coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, marshes and swamps.
Elevation range extends from 0-50 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-6 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Convolvulaceae
(Morning-glory Family)
Small-flowered morning-glory
Convolvulus simulans
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Mar.-Jul. Clay soils, serpentinite seeps; openings in chaparral; coastal sage scrub; valley and foothill grassland.
Elevation range extends from 0-305 meters.
Found in Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, San Diego, Santa Barbara counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Western dichondra
Dichondra occidentalis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Jan.-Jul. perennial rhizomatous herb. Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub, Valley and foothill grassland
Elevation range extends from 50-500 meters.
Found in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site and the project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species.
Crassulaceae
(Stonecrop Family)
many-stemmed dudleya
Dudleya multicaulis
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Apr.-Jul. Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland often on clay soils.
Elevation range extends from 15-790 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Laguna Beach dudleya
Dudleya stolonifera
Federal: FT
State: CT
Local: 1B.1
May-Jul. Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland; rocky.
Elevation range extends from 10-260 meters.
Found in Orange County.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-7 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Ericaceae
(Heather Family)
summer holly
Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Apr.-Jun. Chaparral, cismontane woodland, mixed chaparral; sometimes found in burned areas.
Elevation range extends from 30-790 meters.
Found in Orange, Riverside, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Euphorbiaceae
(Spurge Family)
cliff spurge
Euphorbia misera
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 2B.2
Dec.-Oct. Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub, or Mojavean desert scrub areas, usually rocky.
Elevation range extends from 10-500 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Fabaceae
(Legume Family)
Horn's milk-vetch
Astragalus hornii var. hornii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
May-Oct Meadows and seeps, Playas/lake margins, alkaline
Elevation range extends from 60-850 meters.
Found in Kern, San Bernardino* counties, Nevada.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site and the project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species..
Fagaceae
(Oak Family)
Nuttall’s scrub oak
Quercus dumosa
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Feb.-Aug. Sage scrub and chaparral; sandy clay loam or sandstone.
Elevation range extends from 15-400 meters.
Found in Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. Additionally, this is a conspicuous species that was not observed during the site visit.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-8 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Juglandaceae
(Walnut Family)
Southern California black walnut
Juglans californica
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Mar.-Aug. Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, riparian woodland; alluvial.
Elevation range extends from 50-900 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. Additionally, the project site is outside of the known range of the species, and this is a conspicuous species that was not observed during the site visit.
Malvaceae
(Mallow Family)
salt spring checkerbloom
Sidalcea neomexicana
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 2.2
Mar.-Jun. Chaparral, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, Mojavean desert scrub, playas; alkaline and mesic soils.
Elevation range extends from 15-1,530 meters.
Found in Kern, Orange, Riverside, Ventura, San Bernardino, San Diego, possibly Los Angeles counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-9 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Montiaceae
(Miner's Lettuce Family)
seaside cistanthe
Cistanthe maritima
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Feb-Aug. Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland; annual herb, sandy.
Elevation range extends from 5-300 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Nyctaginaceae
(Four O’clock Family)
red sand-verbena
Abronia maritima
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Feb.-Nov. Coastal dunes.
Elevation range extends from 0-100 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Abronia villosa var. aurita
chaparral sand-verbena
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Jan.-Sep. Chaparral, coastal scrub, and desert dunes/sandy areas.
Elevation range extends from 0-1,600 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, possibly Orange counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Onagraceae
(Evening-primrose Family)
Lewis' evening-primrose Camissoniopsis lewisii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 3
Mar.-Jun. Coastal bluff scrub; cismontane woodland, coastal dunes, coastal scrub; valley and foothill grassland; sandy or clay soils.
Elevation range extends from 0-300 meters.
Found in Los Angeles. San Diego, possibly Orange counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-10 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Orobanchaceae
(Broomrape Family)
Salt marsh bird’s beak
Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum
Federal: FE
State: SE
Local: 1B.2
May-Oct. Coastal dunes, marshes, and swamps.
Elevation range extends from 0-30 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Bernardino, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat and the project site is outside of the known range of the species. This species has been recorded in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Polemoniaceae
(Phlox Family)
prostrate vernal pool navarretia
Navarretia prostrata
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Apr.-Jul Coastal sage scrub, wetland-riparian; occurs almost always under natural conditions in wetlands.
Elevation range extends from 15-1,210 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Polygonaceae
(Buckwheat Family)
coast woolly-heads
Nemacaulis denudata var.
denudata
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
Apr.-Sep. Coastal dunes.
Elevation range extends from 0-100 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Rosaceae
(Rose Family)
mesa horkelia
Horkelia cuneata var. puberula
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.1
Feb.-Jul. (uncommonly Sep.)
Chaparral (maritime), cismontane woodland, coastal scrub/sandy or gravelly.
Elevation range extends from 70-810 meters.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-11 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, possibly Riverside counties.
Solanaceae
(Nightshade Family)
California box-thorn
Lycium californicum
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Mar.-Aug. Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub.
Elevation range extends from 10-300 meters.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. Additionally, this species is conspicuous and was not observed during the site visit.
ANGIOSPERMS (MONOCOTYLEDONS)
Juncaceae
(Juncus)
southwestern spiny rush
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 4.2
Mar.-Jun. Mesic soils in coastal dunes; alkaline seeps in meadows; coastal salt marshes and swamps.
Elevation range extends from 3-900 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Liliaceae
(Lily Family)
intermediate mariposa lily
Calochortus weedii var.
intermedius
Federal: None
State: None
Local: 1B.2
May-Jul. Coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland on rocky soil and rocky outcrops.
Elevation range extends from 105-855 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat and the project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-12 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Poaceae
(True Grass Family)
California Orcutt grass
Orcuttia californica
Federal: FE
State: SE
Local: 1B.1
Apr.-Aug. Vernal pools.
Elevation range extends from 15-660 meters.
Found in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura counties.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
1 Sensitivity Status Federal
FE Federally Endangered FT Federally Threatened FC Federal Candidate FPE Federally Proposed as Endangered FPT Federally Proposed as Threatened FPD Federally Proposed for Delisting
State
SE State Listed as Endangered ST State Listed as Threatened SCE State Candidate for Endangered SCT State Candidate for Threatened SR State Rare Local
CRPR California Rare Plant Ranks:
California Rare Plant Rank 1A Plants presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct elsewhere
California Rare Plant Rank 1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere
California Rare Plant Rank 2A Plants presumed extirpated in California but common elsewhere
California Rare Plant Rank 2B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but common elsewhere
California Rare Plant Rank 3 Plants about which more information is needed, a review list
California Rare Plant Rank 4 Plants of limited distribution, a watch list
Threat Code extensions and their meanings:
0.1-Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat)
0.2-Moderately threatened in California (20-80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat)
0.3-Not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened / low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known)
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-13 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Plants with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Flowering Period Preferred Habitat/Known Elevation and Distribution2 Potential to Occur in the Project Site
2 Sources for Preferred Habitat: Calflora. 2023. Information on Wild California Plants. Available online at: https://www.calflora.org/. Accessed on May 25, 2023. CDFW. 2023. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). RareFind, Version 5.0 (Commercial Subscription). Sacramento, California: CDFW, Biogeographic Data Branch. Available online at: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/Maps-and-Data. Accessed on May 25, 2023. Source: ESA, 2023.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-14 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Invertebrates
Snails, Slugs, and Abalone
Gastropoda
mimic tryonia (California brackishwater snail)
Tryonia imitator
Federal: None
State: None
Local: None
Inhabits coastal lagoons, estuaries and salt marshes, from Sonoma County south to San Diego County.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Order Anostraca (fairy shrimp)
Crustacea
San Diego fairy shrimp
Branchinecta sandiegoensis
Federal: FE
State: None
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Conditionally Covered
Known to occur in areas of swales/earth slump basins in grassland, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. Inhabit seasonally wet pools filled by winter/spring rains. Hatch in warm water later in the season.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Riverside fairy shrimp
Streptocephalus woottoni
Federal: FE
State: None
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Conditionally Covered
Endemic to western Riverside, Orange and San Diego Counties in areas of tectonic swales/earth slump basins in grassland and coastal sage scrub. Inhabit seasonally astatic pools filled by winter/spring rains greater than 12 inches in depth. Hatch in warm water later in the season. Typically observed January through March.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Order Coleoptera (beetles)
Insecta
Sandy beach tiger beetle
Cincindela hirticollis gravida
Federal: None
State: None
Local: None
Inhabits areas adjacent to non-brackish water along the coast of California from San Francisco Bay to northern Mexico.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Western beach tiger beetle
Cicindela latesignata latesignata
Federal: None
State: None
Local: None
Coastal habitats, primarily beaches. Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-15 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
globose dune beetle
Coelus globosus
Federal: None
State: None
Local: None
Coastal dunes; Inhabits foredunes and sand hummocks; it burrows beneath the sand surface and is most common beneath dune vegetation.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Order Lepidoptera (butterflies & moths)
Insecta
monarch butterfly – California overwintering population
Danaus plexippus pop. 1
Federal: FC
State: None
Local: None
Wintering sites in California are associated with wind-protected groves of large trees (primarily eucalyptus or pine [Pinus spp.]) with nectar and water sources nearby that are generally near the coast.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to forage or overwinter within the project site due to a lack of milkweed host plants and suitable large tree groves required for overwintering. This species is known to occur along the coast and may be observed in the general area.
Order Hymenoptera (ants, bees, & wasps)
Insecta
Crotch bumble bee
Bombus crotchii
Federal: None
State: SCE
Local: None
Open grassland and scrub habitats that support potential nectar sources such as plants within the Fabaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, and Boraginaceae families.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
FISH
Trout & Salmon
Salmonidae
steelhead - southern California DPS
Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 10
Federal: FE
State: SCE
Local: None
South coast flowing waters with variable temperatures. Found in streams and rivers with at least 7 inches minimum depth.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Gobies
Gobiidae
tidewater goby
Eucyclogobius newberryi
Federal: FE
State: None
Found in shallow brackish water habitats, lagoons, and lower stream reaches along the California coast from
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-16 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Local: None Agua Hedionda Lagoon, San Diego County to the mouth of the Smith River. Require fairly still but not stagnant water and high oxygen levels.
AMPHIBIANS
Spadefoot Toads
Scaphiopodidae
western spadefoot
Spea hammondii
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Mixed woodland, grasslands, chaparral, sandy washes, lowlands, river floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali flats, foothills, and mountains. Prefers washes and other sandy areas with patches of brush and rocks. Rain pools or shallow temporary pools, which do not contain bullfrogs, fish, or crayfish are necessary for breeding. Perennial plants necessary for its major food-termites.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat and freshwater source on site. Additionally, the closest CNDDB occurrence for this species is over 5 miles from the project site (CDFW 2023).
REPTILES
Box & Water Turtles
Emydidae
western pond turtle
Emys marmorata
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Known to occur in slow-moving permanent or intermittent streams, ponds, small lakes, rivers, streams, marshes, irrigation ditches with abundant vegetation, reservoirs with emergent basking sites, and either rocky or muddy bottoms. In woodland, forest, or grassland habitats. In creeks that pool to shallower areas and with logs, rocks, cattail mats, and/or exposed banks for basking are required. Could enter brackish or even seawater. Adjacent uplands used during winter.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to lack of suitable habitat on site. Upper Newport Bay east of the project site provides suitable habitat for this species, which is known to occur approximately 1.6 miles north and 1.9 miles east of the project site (CDFW 2023).
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-17 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Spiny Lizards
Phrynosomatidae
coast horned lizard
Phrynosoma blainvillii
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Prefers sandy riparian and sage scrub habitats but also occurs in valley-foothill hardwood, conifer, pine-cypress, juniper and annual grassland habitats below 6,000 feet, open country, especially sandy areas, washes, flood plains, and windblown deposits. Requires open areas for sunning, bushes and loose soil for cover and abundant supply of harvester ants.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to lack of suitable habitat on site. Upper Newport Bay east of the project site provides suitable habitat for this species. The closest record for this species is approximately 4.3 miles southeast of the project site, east of Pelican Hill (CDFW 2023).
Whiptails & relatives
Teiidae
orange-throated whiptail
Aspidoscelis hyperythra beldingi
Federal: None
State: WL
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Species requires intact habitat within chaparral, cismontane woodland, and coastal scrub plant communities. Prefers washes and other sandy areas with patches of brush and rocks. Perennial plants necessary for its major food-termites.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to lack of suitable habitat on site. Upper Newport Bay east of the project site provides suitable habitat for this species; however, there are no extant records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2023).
Legless Lizards
Anniellidae
southern California legless lizard [=silvery legless lizard]
Anniella stebbinsi [=Anniella pulchra]
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Occurs in moist warm loose soil with plant cover. Moisture is essential. Occurs in sparsely vegetated areas of beach/coastal dunes, chaparral, pine-oak woodlands, desert scrub, sandy washes, and stream terraces with sycamores, cottonwoods, or oaks. Leaf litter under trees and bushes in sunny areas and dunes stabilized with bush lupine and mock heather often indicate suitable habitat. Often can be found under surface objects such as rocks, boards, driftwood, and logs. Can also be found by gently raking leaf litter under
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-18 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
bushes and trees. Sometimes found in suburban gardens in Southern California.
Vipers
Viperiidae
red-diamond rattlesnake
Crotalus ruber
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Known to occur in chaparral, Mojavean desert scrub, and Sonoran desert scrub communities. Occurs in rocky areas and dense vegetation. Needs rodent burrows, cracks in rocks, or surface cover objects.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
BIRDS
Cuckoos & relatives
Cuculidae
western yellow-billed cuckoo
Coccyzus americanus occidentalis
Federal: FT
State: SE
Local: None
Riparian forest nester, along the broad, lower flood-bottoms of larger river systems. Nests in riparian jungles of willow, often mixed with cottonwoods, with lower story of blackberry nettles, or wild grape.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Rails, Coots, & Gallinules
Rallidae
yellow rail
Coturnicops noveboracensis
Federal: BCC
State: SSC
Local: None
Known to occur within freshwater marshlands, meadows, and seeps. Low Potential. This species has low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay east of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
California black rail
Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus
Federal: None
State: ST, FP
Local: None
Known to occur in brackish and freshwater marshes. Inhabits riparian thickets of willow and other brushy tangles near watercourses. Needs water depths of about 1 inch that does not fluctuate during the year and dense vegetation for nesting habitat.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay east of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-19 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
light-footed Ridgway’s rail
Rallus obsoletus levipes
Federal: FE
State: SE, FP
Local: None
Found in salt marshes traversed by tidal sloughs, where cordgrass and pickleweed are the dominant vegetation. Requires dense growth of either pickleweed or cordgrass for nesting or escape cover. Feeds on mollusks and crustaceans.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay east of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Plovers & relatives
Charadriidae
western snowy plover
Charadrius nivosus nivosus
Federal: FT
State: SSC
Local: None
Found in Great Basin standing waters, sand shore, wetland. Sandy beaches, salt pond levees & shores of large alkali lakes. Requires sandy, gravelly, or friable soil substrate for nesting.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur along the coastline of the Pacific Ocean 2.6 miles south of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Sandpipers & relatives
Scolopacidae
California least tern
Sternula antillarum browni
Federal: FE
State: SE, FP
Local: None
Known to occur in alkali playas and coastal dune and beach habitats. Nests along the coast from San Francisco Bay south to northern Baja California. Colonial breeder on bare or sparsely vegetated, flat substrates: sand beaches, alkali flats, landfills, or paved areas.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay 2.6 miles northeast of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Ospreys
Pandionidae
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
Federal: None
State: WL
Local: None
Inhabits areas surrounding saltmarshes, rivers, ponds, reservoirs, estuaries, and even coral reefs. Stick nests are placed in the open on poles, channel markers and dead trees often over water.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay 1.1 miles south of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-20 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Hawks, Kites, Harriers, & Eagles
Accipitridae
Cooper’s hawk
Accipiter cooperii
Federal: None
State: WL
Local: None
Inhabits cismontane woodland, riparian forest, riparian woodland, upper montane coniferous forest, or other forest habitats near water. Nests and forages near open water or in riparian vegetation.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site; however, this species is known to occur in the general area and may potentially forage and/or nest in the adjacent area.
white-tailed kite
Elanus leucurus
Federal: None
State: FP
Local: None
Rolling foothills and valley margins with scattered oaks and river bottomlands or marshes nest to deciduous woodland. Open grasslands, meadows, or marshes for foraging close to isolated, dense-topped trees for nesting and perching.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay 0.9 miles northeast of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
True Owls
Strigidae
burrowing owl
Athene cunicularia
Federal: BCC
State: SSC
Local: None
Inhabits coastal prairie, coastal scrub, Great Basin scrub, Mojavean desert scrub, Sonoran desert scrub, annual and perennial grasslands, bare ground, and disturbed habitats characterized by low-growing vegetation. A subterranean nester dependent upon burrowing mammals, particularly the California ground squirrel.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Vireos
Vireonidae
least Bell’s vireo
Vireo bellii pusillus
Federal: FE
State: SE
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Conditionally Covered
Known to occur in riparian forest, scrub, and woodland habitats. Summer resident of Southern California in low riparian in vicinity of water or in dry river bottoms; below 2,000 feet. Highly territorial and nests primarily in willow, mule fat, or mesquite habitats.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-21 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Larks
Alaudidae
California horned lark
Eremophila alpestris actia
Federal: None
State: WL
Local: None
Found from grasslands along the coast and deserts near sea level to alpine dwarf-shrub habitat above the treeline. During the winter, this species typically flocks in desert lowlands.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Swallows
Hirundinidae
bank swallow
Riparia riparia
Federal: None
State: ST
Local: None
Colonial nester; nests primarily in riparian and other lowland habitats west of the desert. Requires vertical banks/cliffs with fine-textured/sandy soils near streams, rivers, lakes, ocean to dig nesting hole.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Wrens
Troglodytidae
coastal cactus wren
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus sandiegensis
Federal: BCC
State: SSC
Local: County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Known to occur in coastal scrub habitats. Nest almost exclusively in prickly pear (Opuntia littoralis and O. oricola) and coastal cholla (O. prolifera).
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay 0.7 miles north of the project site and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Gnatcatchers
Polioptilidae
coastal California gnatcatcher
Polioptila californica californica
Federal: FT
State: SSC
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Species is an obligate, permanent resident of coastal sage scrub habitats dominated by California sagebrush and flat-topped buckwheat, mainly on cismontane slopes below 1,500 feet in elevation. Low coastal sage scrub in arid washes, on mesas and slopes.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay 0.4 miles northeast and 0.5 miles north of the project site (CDFW 2023); however, there is limited suitable habitat for this species east of the project stie.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-22 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Sparrows
Passerellidae
southern California rufous-crowned sparrow
Aimophila ruficeps canescens
Federal: None
State: WL
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Covered
Known to frequent relatively steep, often rocky hillsides with grass and forb species. Resident in southern California coastal sage scrub and mixed chaparral habitats.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. No documented occurrences within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2023).
grasshopper sparrow
Ammodramus savannarum
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Known to occur in dense grasslands on rolling hills, lowland plains, in valleys and on hillsides on lower mountain slopes. Favors native grasslands with a mix of grasses, forbs, and scattered shrubs.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Belding’s savannah sparrow
Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi
Federal: BCC
State: SE
Local: None
Inhabits coastal salt marshes, from Santa Barbara south through San Diego County. Nests in Salicornia on and about margins of tidal flats.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Yellow-Breasted Chats
Icteriidae
yellow-breasted chat
Icteria virens
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Known to occur with riparian forest, scrub, and woodland habitats. Summer resident; inhabits riparian thickets of willow and other brushy tangles near watercourses. Nests in low, dense riparian, consisting of willow, blackberry, wild grape; forages and nests within 10 feet of ground.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in Upper Newport Bay and may occasionally be seen flying overhead (CDFW 2023).
Blackbirds
Icteridae
tricolored blackbird
Agelaius tricolor
Federal: BCC
State: ST; SSC
Local: None
Known to occur in freshwater marsh, marsh, swap, and wetland. Highly colonial species, most numerous in Central Valley and vicinity. Requires open water, protected nesting substrate,
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-23 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
and foraging area with insect prey within a few kilometers of the colony.
Wood-Warblers
Parulidae
yellow warbler
Setophaga petechia
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Found in riparian forest, scrub, and woodland. Riparian plant associations in close proximity to water. Also nests in montane shrubbery in open conifer forests in Cascades and Sierra Nevada. Frequently found nesting and foraging in willow shrubs and thickets, and in other riparian plants including cottonwoods, sycamores, ash, and alders.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
MAMMALS
Shrews
Soricidae
southern California saltmarsh shrew
Sorex ornatus salicornicus
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Coastal marshes in Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties. Requires dense vegetation and woody debris for cover.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat. This species is known to occur in habitats in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Leaf-Nosed Bats
Phyllostomidae
Mexican long-tongued bat
Choeronycteris mexicana
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Occasionally found in San Diego County, which is on the northern limit of their range.
Known to occur at altitudes of 300–2,400 meters in deciduous, semi-arid thorn scrub and mixed oak-conifer forests. Feeds on nectar and pollen of night-blooming succulents; roosts in relatively well-lit caves and within buildings.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site and the project site is outside the known elevation range for this species.
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-24 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Evening Bats
Vespertilionidae
hoary bat
Lasiurus cinereus
Federal: None
State: None
Local: None
Inhabits broadleaved upland forest, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest, and north coast coniferous forest.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat but may occasionally forage in the general area.
Free-Tailed Bats
Molossidae
western mastiff bat
Eumops perotis californicus
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Known to occur in habitat consisting of extensive open areas within dry desert washes, flood plains, chaparral, cismontane oak woodland, coastal scrub, open ponderosa pine forest, and grasslands. Roosts primarily in crevices in rock outcrops and buildings.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat but may occasionally forage in the general area.
big free-tailed bat
Nyctinomops macrotis
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Low-lying arid areas in Southern California within habitats such as desert shrubs, woodlands, and evergreen forests. Need high cliffs or rugged, rocky outcrops or canyons for roosting sites. Feeds principally on large moths.
Low Potential. This species has a low potential to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat but may occasionally forage in the general area.
Pocket Mice & Kangaroo Rats
Heteromyidae
Pacific pocket mouse
Perognathus longimembris pacificus
Federal: FE
State: SSC
Local: (County of Orange NCCP/HCP) Conditionally Covered
Found in the coastal scrub and maritime chaparral from the Mexican border north to El Segundo, Los Angeles County. Commonly associated with gravelly, or fine alluvial soils within coastal plains in the immediate vicinity of the Pacific Ocean. Also found on coastal strand, coastal dunes, and ruderal vegetation on river alluvium, within open, sparsely vegetated areas.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site. This species is not known to occur in Upper Newport Bay (CDFW 2023).
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-25 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
Special-Status Wildlife with Potential to Occur in the Project Site
Common Name
Scientific Name Sensitivity Status1 Preferred Habitat/Known Distribution2 Presence/Potential to Occur Within Biological Study Area
Weasels & relatives
Mustelidae
American badger
Taxidea taxus
Federal: None
State: SSC
Local: None
Found in a variety of habitats, including alkali marsh, desert wash, Great Basin scrub, marsh and swamp, meadow and seep, Mojavean desert scrub, riparian scrub, riparian woodland, valley and foothill grassland. Most abundant in drier open stages of most shrub, forest, and herbaceous habitats, with friable soils. Needs sufficient food, friable soils, and open, uncultivated ground to dig burrows. Preys on burrowing rodents.
Not Expected. This species is not expected to occur within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat on site.
1 Sensitivity Status Federal (USFWS)
FC Federal Candidate FE Federally Endangered FT Federally Threatened FPE Federally Proposed as Endangered FPT Federally Proposed as Threatened State
FP Fully Protected
SE State Endangered ST State Threatened SCE State Candidate as Endangered SCT State Candidate as Threatened SSC State Species of Special Concern WL Watch List WBWG Western Bat Working Group Regional Priority Matrix Species
Local
County of Orange NCCP/HCP (NCCP/HCP) – Covered
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site (Continued)
1812 Galaxy Drive Project D-26 ESA / D202300566.00
Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Project Site June 2023
Preliminary − Subject to Revision
2 Sources for Preferred Habitat: CDFW. 2023a. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). RareFind, Version 5.0 (Commercial Subscription). Sacramento, California: CDFW, Biogeographic Data Branch. Available online at: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/Maps-and-Data. Accessed on May 25, 2023. CDFW. 2023b. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships. Available online at: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR/Life-History-and-Range. Accessed on May 25, 2023. eBird. 2023. Species Maps. Available online at: https://ebird.org/map. Accessed on May 25, 2023. iNaturalist. 2023. Observations. Available online at: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations. Accessed on May 25, 2023. Source: ESA, 2023.