4.10 - City of Chowchilla

Transcription

4.10 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
This section discusses and analyzes biological resources in the City of Chowchilla
General Plan Planning Area and the Rancho Calera Specific Plan. The purpose of this
section is to describe onsite vegetation communities, including sensitive habitats and
communities, and assess the potential for occurrence of special-status plant and wildlife
species within the Planning Area. This section also evaluates potential impacts to
biological resources associated with the proposed land use designations of the General
Plan Update. The information provided in this section is based primarily on a review of
database search results pertaining to natural resources within the Planning Area and on
field investigations.
4.10.1 Existing Setting
4.10.1.1
Regional Setting
The City of Chowchilla is located in the northern San Joaquin Valley. Bounded on the
east by the Sierra Nevada foothills and on the west by the Coast Ranges, the landscape
of Chowchilla is relatively flat, consisting of basins, plains, terraces, alluvial fans, and
scattered hills or buttes. The predominant landscape feature of the valley is a wide
variety of agricultural croplands. The San Joaquin Valley is intensely farmed and
produces over 250 crops shipped to worldwide markets. The productivity of the valley is
made possible through irrigation water supplied by a network of delivery canals and
reservoirs. In recent years the valley has experienced tremendous urban growth, which
has created additional pressures on dwindling habitat resources. The San Joaquin
Valley once supported a variety of vegetation communities and habitats including wide
alkali scrubs, annual and perennial grasslands, marshes, and riparian forests. Much of
the natural habitat of the valley now persists as fragments due to agricultural and other
development.
4.10.1.2
Local Setting
Prior to development, the natural vegetation within the vicinity of the City of Chowchilla
was characterized by vast stretches of savanna traversed by the riparian stands of the
Chowchilla River. The range of natural vegetation communities has been significantly
reduced from historic levels as a result of conversion of these lands to urban and
agricultural uses. Only scant disturbed remnants of these natural communities remain
within the Planning Area. Agricultural and suburban development has nearly eliminated
most historic natural communities. Nonetheless, riparian habitats persist within the
Planning Area, especially within the Ash and Berenda Slough corridors.
These habitats are considered sensitive by the California Department of Fish Game
(CDFG) and have the potential to contain special-status species. Riparian habitat is
found along the Ash and Berenda Slough, which are within the Planning Area, and the
Chowchilla River, which is mostly outside of the Planning Area and forms the northern
boundary of the Sphere of Influence, as well as some of the smaller canals and
drainages within the Planning Area. Reconnaissance-level surveys identified additional
areas where these sensitive resources could occur.
General Plan Update 2040 Draft Environmental Impact Report
4.10-1
City of Chowchilla
The Planning Area’s summers are hot and dry while winters are mild. Precipitation is
highly variable from year to year; City of Chowchilla rainfall averages 11.32 inches per
year (Western Regional Climate Center 2008). Mean annual temperature is about 59 to
62 degrees Fahrenheit. The mean freeze-free period is about 250 to 300 days. Most
annual grasses and forbs, which sprout after the first winter rains, flower and set seed
during the spring and are dead by the onset of the hot dry summer.
Biotic and Wildlife Habitats
Agricultural land with associated irrigation/drainage ditches/ponds is the primary land
use within the Planning Area. The only natural biotic habitat of substantial size within
the Planning Area is the riparian scrub and aquatic habitat associated with Ash and
Berenda Sloughs. There may be small, isolated patches of other natural habitats such
as non-native grassland or seasonal wetland (such as vernal pools); however, at the
level of effort put forth for this study, none were identified. Additional areas of sensitive
habitat or areas where special-status species may occur could be identified during
subsequent project-level analysis.
Within the existing City limits of the City of Chowchilla, the primarily land use is urban.
Figure 4.10 - 1 is an aerial photograph identifying the Planning Area along with the
focus areas and special areas of interest.
Figure 4.10 - 1
Chowchilla Study Area
4.10-2
City of Chowchilla
This photograph clearly depicts the location of the sloughs and the surrounding
agricultural and developed habitats. A list of vascular plants observed during the field
surveys has been provided in Appendix A of Appendix 4-10A found in Volume 2 of this
EIR. A list of terrestrial vertebrates and invertebrates using, or potentially using, the
Planning Area has been provided in Appendix B of Appendix 4-10A found in Volume 2
of this EIR.
Riparian Scrub and Aquatic Habitat
Ash and Berenda Sloughs flow through the Planning Area, (
Figure 4.10 - 2 and Table 4.10 - 1). These two waterways flow in a southwesterly
direction, and eventually empty into the San Joaquin River.
The bed and banks of Ash and Berenda Sloughs are vegetated with patchy riparian
scrub vegetation, with scattered riparian trees. The sloughs themselves consist
primarily of broad, barren, sandy washes that remain dry much of the year. It appears
that substantial flows occur in the sloughs during large winter storm events or in very
wet winters, but these flows are believed to be of relatively short duration. However,
Berenda Reservoir, located in the northeastern corner of the Planning Area, remains
inundated all or much of the year due to a dam or levee that was constructed along
Berenda Slough years ago. The Chowchilla Water District and U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers currently controls Berenda Reservoir.
Figure 4.10 - 2
Chowchilla 2040 General Plan Boundaries
4.10-3
City of Chowchilla
Additionally, a small stretch of Berenda Slough west of the Reservoir's spill-point
remains inundated for a longer period of time, which is evident by the presence of
emergent vegetation. The stretch of the slough that is characterized by more typical
wetland features is nonetheless limited, as the water percolates into the soil before
entering the central portion of the Planning Area.
Table 4.10 - 1
Slough Locations within the 2040 General Plan
Area/Slough
Planning Area
Extent of Occurrence
Flows southwesterly in the northern
portion of the Planning Area
Flows southwesterly in the southern
portion of the Planning Area
Located immediately south of the
slough
Absent
Absent
The proposed crossing would be
located over the slough
Flows adjacent to the proposed area
Absent
Absent
Dammed portion of slough
Ash
Berenda
Highway 99/SR 233
Ave.
24/Berenda
Crossing Location
Ash
Slough
Proposed Wastewater Treatment
Plant Location
Berenda Reservoir
Berenda
Ash
Berenda
Ash
Berenda
Ash
Berenda
Seasonal flows of Ash and Berenda Sloughs are sufficient to support riparian shrubs
and trees along the bed and banks. Some of the more scrubby species included small
red willows (Salix laevigata), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), California walnut (Juglans
californica ssp. hindsii), and Mexican elder (Sambucus mexicana). Widely scattered
Fremont's cottonwoods (Populusfremontii) provided the only real tree cover. The
herbaceous understory included a mix of non-native grass and forb species of
European decent.
Riparian scrub associated with Ash and Berenda Sloughs provides habitat of
considerably higher value to terrestrial vertebrate species than do the agricultural and
developed lands occurring on the remainder of the Planning Area. While the riparian
vegetation is in places quite sparse, the presence of patchy vegetation that includes
multiple canopy layers ensures that this habitat will be used by a large variety of
resident and migratory species.
Due to the unpredictability and short duration of flows in its channel, Ash and Berenda
Sloughs likely provide limited habitat for amphibians, with the exception of the stretch of
Berenda Slough near Berenda Reservoir and the reservoir itself. Berenda Slough
habitat in and around the reservoir provides for common amphibian species such as
bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana), Pacific chorus frogs (Pseudacris regilla), and western
toads (Bufo boreas). Reptilian species expected to occur throughout both Ash and
Berenda Sloughs includes at least one native species of lizard, the western whiptail
(Cnemidophorus tigris), and several species of snake, including coachwhips
4.10-4
City of Chowchilla
(Masticophus flagellum), glossy snakes (Arizona elegans), gopher snakes (Pituophis
melanoleucus), and common kingsnakes (Lampropeltis getulus).
The riparian vegetation of the slough provides considerable habitat for a diversity of
avian species. Taller shrubs and trees provide roosting and possibly nesting habitat for
various resident species. Such species included acorn woodpeckers (Melanerpes
formicivorus), Nuttall's woodpeckers (Picoides nuttallii), western scrub jays
(Aphelocoma californica), yellow-billed magpies (Pica nuttalliz), and red-tailed hawks
(Buteo jamaicensis). Barn owls (Tyto alba) and great homed owls (Bubo virginianus)
will be likely residents of this riparian vegetation given the large expanse of suitable
foraging habitat in the agricultural lands of the Planning Area. Vegetation in the sloughs
will provide important cover for many migrant species moving north from Mexico and
Central America during the spring or moving south from the Pacific Northwest and
Canada during the fall. Riparian scrub may be used as nesting habitat by spring
migrants such as ash-throated flycatchers (Myiarchus cinerascens), house wrens
(Troglodytes aedon), and Bullock's orioles (Icterus buliockiI). It also provides cover and
foraging habitat for wintering species such as white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia
leucophrys), golden-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia atricapilla), and dark-eyed juncos
(Junco hyemalis).
Ash and Berenda Sloughs provides habitat for many of the same mammal species,
however habitat is not preferable due to the limited vegetative cover. Species expected
to frequent the sloughs include Californla ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi),
Botta's pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae), deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus),
California voles (Microtus califomicus), desert cottontails (Sylvilagus audubonii), blacktailed jackrabbits (Lepus califomicus), Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana), striped
and spotted skunks (Mephitis mephitis and Spilogale gracilis respectively), and
raccoons (Procyon lotor).
Coyotes (Canis latrans), gray foxes (Urocyon
cinereoargenteus), and the introduced eastern red fox (Vulpes vulpes) will all occur
along the sloughs at a lesser extent.
Agricultural Lands
Similar to most Central Valley Cities, a majority of the Planning Area located outside of
the existing City Limits consists of agricultural lands. The three focus areas and four
special areas of interest are also comprised or closely associated with agriculture
themselves and the scattered rodent populations and their burrows provide suitable
habitat for the western whiptail, coachwhips, gopher snakes, and common kingsnakes.
Several avian species frequently visit agricultural lands. Some of the resident species
expected to occur on a regular basis within the agricultural lands include killdeer
(Charadrius vociferous), mourning doves (Zenaida macroura), American crows (Corvus
brachyrhynchos), and western meadowlarks (Sturnella neglecta). Raptor species
resident to the Chowchilla area include red-tailed hawks, white-tailed kites (Elanus
caeruleus), northern harriers (Circus cyaneus), red-shouldered hawks (Buteo lineatus),
and American kestrels (Falco sparverius). Winter visitors to the site could include
ferruginous hawks (Buteo regalis), merlins (Falco columbarius), and mountain bluebirds
4.10-5
City of Chowchilla
(Sialia currucoides).
verticalis).
Summer visitors will include western kingbirds (Tyrannus
Small mammals occur in agricultural lands such as those within the Planning Area, but
populations will be highly variable depending on the condition of the fields/pastures.
Freshly plowed or cultivated fields barren of vegetation provide little cover for most
terrestrial vertebrates. California ground squirrels and Botta's pocket gophers are
common residents of agricultural habitat. Deer mice, California voles, desert cottontails,
and black-tailed jackrabbits may also occur within this habitat, but in lower numbers.
Not only do the small mammals inhabiting the site attract predators such as snakes and
raptors described above, but larger mammals as well. Gray foxes and coyotes move
through the site from time to time and predate on the smaller mammal species.
Developed Land
The biotic resources of the developed areas are extremely restricted due to their lack of
naturally occurring biotic habitats and continual use and disturbance by humans. The
majority of the vegetation in these areas consists of landscaped, ornamental species.
Commonly planted ornamental species include nandina (Nandina domestica), Indian
hawthorne (Raphiolepis indica), and oleander (Nerium oleander).
For the most part, wildlife species will only occur within the developed portion of the
Planning Area as infrequent visitors. Avian species adapted to developed areas that
could occur more frequently include American crows, western scrub jays, American
robins (Turdus migratorius), European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), house finches
(Carpodacus me.xicanus), and Brewer's blackbirds (Euphagus cyanocephalus).
Mammals species commonly associated with developed areas include the house
mouse (Mus musculus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), raccoon, opossum (Didelphis
virginiana), feral house cats (Felis catus), and domestic dog (Canis familiaris) .
4.10.1.3
Special Status Plants and Animals
Several species of plants and animals within the state of California have low
populations, limited distributions, or the combination of the two. Such species may be
considered "rare" and are vulnerable to extirpation as the state's human population
grows and the habitats these species occupy are converted to agricultural and urban
uses. These Species are described more fully in Table 4.10 - 2 and Table 4.10 - 3.
A number of special status plants and animals occur in the vicinity of the study area;
their locations are shown in Figure 4.10 - 3 and Figure 4.10 - 4. These species, and
their potential to occur in the study area, are listed in Table 4 on the following pages.
Sources of information for this table included California's Wildlife, Volumes I, II, and 111
(Zeiner et. al 1988), California Natural Diversity Data Base (CDFG 2005), Endangered
and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (USFWS 2005), Annual Report on the Status of
California State Listed Threatened and Endangered Animals and Plants (CDFG 2005),
and The California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular
Plants of California (CNPS 2001).
4.10-6
City of Chowchilla
Table 4.10 - 2
Special-status Plant Species Potentially Occurring Within 20 Miles of the Planning
Area
Species Listed as Threatened or Endangered under the State and/or Federal Endangered Species Act
Status
Habitat
Occurrence in Planning Area
Colusa Grass
(Neostapfia colusana)
Species
FT, CE,
CNPS 1B
Occurs in adobe soils in large or
deep vernal pool bottoms.
San Joaquin Valley Orcutt
Grass
(Orcuttia inaegualis)
FT, CE,
CNPS 1B
Occurs in vernal pools. Endemic
to the San Joaquin Valley.
Hairy Orcutt Grass
(Orcuttia pilosa)
FE, CE,
CNPS 1B
to the Sacramento Valley.
Greene's Tuctoria
(Tuctoria greenei)
FE, CR,
CNPS 1B
Occurs in dry bottoms of vernal
pools in open valley and foothill
grasslands.
Succulent Owl's-Clover
(Castilleja campestris
ssp. succulenta)
FE, CE
to the San Joaquin Valley.
Possible. It is possible that small,
isolated patches of historical vernal
pool habitat may occur within the
Planning Area. However, the majority of
the land in and around the City of
Chowchilla has been converted to
agricultural land uses, eliminating any
naturally occurring biotic habitats.
isolated patches of historical vernal pool
habitat may occur within the GP Area.
However, the majority of the land in and
around the City of Chowchilla has been
converted to agricultural land uses,
eliminating any naturally occurring biotic
habitats.
Other Special Status Plants Listed by CNPS
Species
Heartscale
(Atnplex cordulata)
Status
CNPS 1B
Habitat
Occurs in alkaline flats and
scalds in chenopod scrub valley
and foothill grassland, and
meadows of the Central Valley.
4.10-7
Possible. It is possible that small, isolated
patches of suitable habitat may occur
within the Planning Area. However, the
majority of the land in and around the City
of Chowchilla has been converted to
City of Chowchilla
Other Special Status Plants Listed by CNPS (Cont.)
Species
Status
Brittlescale
(Atriplex depressa)
CNPS 1B
Lesser Saltscale
(Atripiex minuscule)
CNPS 1B
Vernal Pool Smallscale
(Atriplex persistens)
CNPS 1B
Subtle Orache
(Atriplex subtilis)
CNPS 1B
Hoover's Calycadenia
(Calycadenia hooveri)
CNPS 1B
Beaked Clarkia
(Clarkia rostrata)
CNPS 1B
Hispid Bird's Beak
(Cordylanthus mollis ssp.
hispidus)
CNPS 1B
Habitat
Occurs in alkali scalds or alkaline
clay in chenopod scrub, meadows,
playas, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pools.
Occurs in alkali sink and sandy
alkaline soils in chenopod scrub,
playas, valley and foothill grassland within the Planning Area. However, the
of the San Joaquin Valley
(historically).
naturally occurring biotic habitats. This
species was document in downtown
Chowchilla in 1921. However, this
population is assumed to have been
eliminated due to habitat modification.
Occurs in alkaline vernal pools.
patches of historical vernal pool habitat
may occur within tile Planning Area.
around tile City of Chowchilla has been
habitats.
Occurs in valley and foothill
grasslands.
majority of the land in and around tile City
Occurs in rocky valley and foothill
grasslands and in eismontane
woodlands.
within the Planning Area. However, tile
grasslands and cismontane
woodlands.
within the Planning Area; However, the
Occurs in damp alkaline soils,
especially in alkaline meadows and patches of suitable habitat may occur
alkali sinks with distichlis in
within the Planning Area; However, the
meadows, playas, valley and
foothill grassland.
4.10-8
City of Chowchilla
Other Special Status Plants Listed by CNPS (Cont.)
Species
Status
Recurved Larkspur
(Delphinium recurvatum)
CNPS 1B
Spiny-Sepaled ButtonCelery (Eryngium
spinosepalum)
CNPS 1B
Pincuslnon Navarretia
(Navarretla myersii ssp.
myersii)
CNPS 1B
Shining Navarretia
(Navarretia nigelliformis
ssp. radians)
CNPS 1B
Merced Phacelia
(Phacelia ciliata var.
opaca)
CNPS 1B
Habitat
Occurs in alkaline valley and
foothill grasslands, chenopod
scrub, and cismontane woodlands. within the Planning Area, However, the
grassland and vernal pools.
Occurs in vernal pool habitat.
patches of historical vernal pool habitat
may occur within the Planning Area.
around the City of Chowchilla has been
habitats.
grasslands, vernal pools, and
cismontane woodlands.
majority of tile land in and around the City
naturally occurring; biotic habitats.
Occurs in adobe or clay soils of
valley floors, open hills, or alkaline patches of suitable habitat may occur
flats in valley and foothill grassland. within the Planning Area. However, the
Endemic to Merced county.
naturally occurring; biotic habitats.
*Present: Species observed on the site at time of field surveys or during recent past.
Likely: Species not observed on the site, but it may reasonably be expected to occur there on a regular basis. Possible: Species not
observed on the site, but it could occur there from time to time.
Unlikely: Species not observed on the site, and would not be expected to occur there except, perhaps, as a transient.
Absent: Species not observed on the site, and precluded from occurring there because habitat requirements not met.
Status Codes
FE
FT
FPE
FC
CE
CT
CR
CP
CSC
Federally Endangered
Federally Threatened
Federally Endangered (proposed)
Federal Candidate
California Endangered
California Threatened
California Rare
California Protected
California Species of Special Concern
CNPS
1A
1B
2
3
4
California Native Plant Society Listing
Plants Presumed Extinct in California
Plants Rare, Threatened or Endangered in California and
elsewhere
Plants Rare, Threatened or Endangered in California, but
common more elsewhere
Plants about which we need more info
Plants of limited distribution-watch list
4.10-9
City of Chowchilla
Table 4.10 - 3
Special-status Animal Species Potentially Occurring Within 20 Miles of the
Planning Area
Habitat
Conservancy Fairy Shrimp
(Branchinecta conservatio)
Species
FE
Endemic to vernal pools found in
grasslands of tile northern two- thirds of
the Central Valley. Thus species is
most commonly associated with large
turbid pools located in swales formed in
old braided alluvium.
Possible. It is possible that small, isolated patches
of historical vernal pool habitat may occur within the
Planning Area. However, tile majority of the land in
and around the City of Chowchilla has been
converted to agricultural land uses, eliminating any
Longhorn Fairy Shrimp
(Branchinecta
longiantenna)
FE
Vernal pools clear to turbid water in
grass-bottomed pools and clear water
sandstone depression pools.
Possible. It is possible that small, isolated patches
of historical vernal pool habitat may occur within tile
Planning Area. However, tile majority of tile land in
and around tile City of Chowchilla has been
converted to agricultural land uses, eliminating any
Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp
(Branchinecta lynchi)
FT
Endemic to vernal pools found in the
grasslands of the Central Valley,
Central Coast Mountains and South
Coast Mountains. This species
occurs in rain· filled pools and even
shallow depressions such as tire ruts.
Vernal Pool Tadpole
Shrimp
(Lepidurus packardi)
FE
Inhabits deep vernal pools of
unplowed grasslands in the Central
Valley containing clear to highly
turbid water.
FT
Lives in mature elderberry shrubs of
California's Central Valley and Siena
Foothills.
FT, CSC
Found primarily in annual grasslands.
Requires vernal pools or other
seasonal water sources for breeding
and underground refuges especially
ground squirrel burrows.
Blunt-nosed Leopard Lizard
(Gambelia sila)
FE, CE, CP
Giant Garter Snake
(Thamnophis gigas)
FT, CT
Resident of sparsely vegetated alkali
and dessert scrub habitats in areas of
low topographic relief. Seeks cover in
small mammal burrows, under shrubs
and structures.
Prefers freshwater marsh and low
gradient streams supporting populations
of mosquito fish and tadpoles of various
sizes. Has adapted to drainage canals
and irrigation ditches.
patches of historical vernal pool habitat may
occur within the Planning Area. However, the
majority of the land in and around the City of
Chowchilla has been converted to agricultural
land uses, eliminating any naturally occurring
biotic habitats.
biotic habitats.
Likely. A number of mature elderberry plants
occur within the riparian corridor of Ash and
Berenda Sloughs. However, a species-specific
survey for the VELB and their exit holes was not
conducted. Until the completion of such a
survey, the VELB must be presumed potentially
present in the slough habitat of the Planning
Area.
patches of historical vernal pool habitat or
existing suitable wetland habitat may occur
within the Planning Area for this species. In fact,
all individuals were observed within the Planning
Area along White Rock Road in 1994. However,
the majority of the land in and around the City of
biotic habitats.
Unlikely. This Planning Area appears to be outside
the range of this species. Ash and Berenda
Sloughs provide marginal habitat for this species at
best.
Valley Elderberry Longhorn
Beetle
(Desmocerus californicus
dimorphus)
California Tiger Salamander
(Ambystoma californiense)
Status
4.10-10
Unlikely. The stretch of Berenda Slough adjacent
to the Reservoir provides marginal habitat for this
species due to the presence of emergent
vegetation. However, this stretch of the Slough is
isolated (i.e. dries quickly downstream and
presence of a darn immediately upstream serving
as a movement barrier) impeding movement to and
from this area. Therefore, it would be unlikely that
tile giant garter snake would occur within focus
areas or special areas.
City of Chowchilla
Species Listed as Threatened or Endangered under the State and/or Federal Endangered
Species Act (Cont.)
Species
Status
Habitat
Giant Garter Snake
(Thamnophis gigas)
FT, CT
Prefers freshwater marsh and low
gradient streams supporting
populations of mosquito fish and
tadpoles of various sizes. Has
adapted to drainage canals and
irrigation ditches.
Swainson's Hawk
(Buteo swainsoni)
CT
Bald Eagle
(Haliaeetus
leucocephalus )
CE
A summer migrant in grasslands and
agricultural lands of California's
Central Valley. Breeds in Junipersage flats, riparian areas and in oak
savannahs.
Ranges widely over tile state, most
often associated with seacoast,
lakes and reservoirs.
American Peregrine Falcon
(Falco peregrinus anatum)
CE
Greater Sandhill Crane
(Grus canadensis tabida)
CT
Willow Flycatcher
(Empidonax traillii)
CE
San Joaquin Kit Fox
(Vulpes macrotis mutica)
FE,CT
Individuals breed on cliffs in tile
Sierra Nevada or in coastal habitats.
Occurs in many habitats of tile state
during irrigation and winter.
Winters primarily in the Sacramento
and San Joaquin Valleys.
Frequents annual and perennial
grassland habitats, moist croplands
with rice and corn stubble, and open
emergent wetlands. Prefers treeless
habitats where predators can be
seen.
Breeds in willows of montane
meadows in tile Sierra Nevada.
Frequents annual grasslands or
grassy open stages with scattered
shrubbery vegetation. Needs loosetextured sandy soils for burrowing
and suitable prey base. May forage
in adjacent agricultural habitats.
State and Federal Species of Special Concern
Species
Status
Habitat
Western Spadefoot
(Scaphoipus hammondii)
CSC
Found primarily in annual grassland
habitats. Vernal pools are essential
for breeding and egg-laying.
Aestivates during the dry season in
rodent burrows.
Western Pond Turtle (Clemmys
marmorata)
CSC
A thoroughly aquatic turtle of ponds,
marshes, rivers, streams and
irrigation ditches with aquatic
vegetation. Needs basking sites and
sandy banks or grassy open fields for
egg-laying.
4.10-11
Unlikely. The stretch of Berenda Slough
adjacent to the Reservoir provides marginal
habitat for this species due to the presence
of emergent vegetation. However, this
stretch of the Slough is isolated (i.e. dries
quickly downstream and presence of a darn
immediately upstream serving as a
movement barrier) impeding movement to
and from this area. Therefore, it would be
unlikely that tile giant garter snake would
occur within focus areas or special areas.
Possible. Thee Planning Area provides
suitable foraging habitat for this species.
Possible nesting habitat is present in the
riparian corridor of Ash and Berenda
Sloughs.
Absent. Habitat in which this species
typically occurs is absent from the vicinity of
Chowchilla.
Possible. Individuals may forage within the
Planning Area from time to time. However,
breeding habitat is absent
Possible. This species may winter in the
agricultural habitats present within the
Planning Area, in particular in areas where
grain or corn is grown.
Possible. Individuals may pass through the
Planning Area during migration, seeking
cover in the riparian vegetation of Ash and
Berenda Sloughs. Nesting habitat is
absent.
Unlikely. The vast majority of the Planning
Area has been manipulated for decades,
primarily for agricultural purposes, and
intensive agriculture lies between the
Planning Area and the nearest sightings.
Therefore it is not believed that kit fox would
occur regular within tile Planning Area as it
is unlikely that the relatively sparse kit fox
population of Merced County disperses
within the immediate vicinity of Chowchilla.
land uses, eliminating all naturally occurring
biotic habitats.
Possible. Ash and Berenda Sloughs
themselves do not provide suitable aquatic
habitat for the western pond turtle due to the
limited duration of flows. However, it is
possible that individuals occur in and around
Berenda Reservoir.
City of Chowchilla
State and Federal Species of Special Concern (Cont.)
Species
Status
Habitat
California Horned Lizard
(Phrynosoma coronatum
frontale)
CSC
Frequents a wide variety of habitats,
most common in lowlands along
sandy washes with scattered low
shrubs.
White-faced Ibis (Plegadis
chihi)
CSC
Northern Harrier (Circus
cyaneus)
CSC
Forages in croplands and pastures of
California's Central Valley during the
winter.
Frequents flat or
hummocky, open areas of all dense
grasses, moist or dry shrubs and
edges for nesting, cover and feeding.
Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter
striatus)
CSC
Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter
cooperil)
CSC
Ferruginous Hawk
(Buteo regalis)
CSC
Golden Eagle
(Aquila chrysaetos)
CSC,CP
Merlin
(Falco columbarius)
CSC
Prairie Falcon
(Falco mexicanus)
CSC
Mountain Plover
(Charadrius montanus)
CSC
Vaux' s Swift
(Chaetura vauxi)
CSC
Califolnia Horned Lark
(Eremophila alpestris actia)
CSC
Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius
ludovicianus)
CSC
Tri-colored Blackbird (Agelaius
tricolor)
CSC
Frequents a variety of winter habitats
of the state. Breeds in the mixed
conifer forests of the northern Sierra
Nevada.
Winters in a variety of lowland
habitats. Often uses patchy
woodlands and edges with snags for
perching. Stands with moderate
crown-depths used for nesting
Breeds in the Pacific Northwest and
Canada. Winters in a variety of
California habitats, including
grasslands, savannahs, and
wetlands.
Frequents rolling foothill or coast
range terrain where grassland turns
to scattered oak, sycamores or large
digger pines. Cliff-walled canyons
provide nesting habitat as well as
large trees in open areas.
Breeds in Canada; winters in a
variety of open habitats at low
elevation near water and tree stands;
favors coast-lines, lakeshores and
wetlands.
Frequents dry open terrain. Breeding
sites are located on cliffs.
Possible. Ash and Berenda Sloughs provide
suitable habitat for the California homed lizard.
However, past agricultural practices that
include possible deep ripping and annual
discing have almost certainly eliminated any
California coast homed lizards from the
remainder of the Planning Area.
Unlikely. This species is rarely seen on the
east side of the San Joaquin Valley or in the
Sierra foothills.
Possible. This species, which is common to
agricultural habitats of the San Joaquin Valley,
may forage within the Planning Area from time
to time. Breeding habitat is marginal along Ash
and Berenda Sloughs.
Possible. This species may forage within
Planning Area from time to time during the
winter. Breeding habitat is absent.
Possible. This species may forage within the
Planning Area. Breeding habitat is also present
within the riparian habitat along Ash and
Berenda Sloughs.
Possible. Golden eagles would at most forage
within the Planning Area. This species is more
often observed in rangeland 10-15 miles east of
the City of Chowchilla.
Possible. This species may winter in the
agricultural habitats present within the Planning
Area, in particular in areas where grain or corn
is grown.
Wintering birds frequent short grass
plains, low rolling grassy hills, freshly
plowed fields, newly sprouting grain
fields and areas with burrowing
rodents.
Migrants and transients move
through the foothills of the western
Planning Area from time to time during tile
Sierra in spring and late summer.
Some individuals breed in the region.
Frequents a variety of open habitats Possible. Suitable breeding and foraging
where trees and shrubs are absent.
habitat is present within the GP Area for this
Breeds in grassland and fallow fields. species.
Grasslands and agricultural areas of
Likely. This species may nest in the riparian
California's Central Valley.
vegetation of Ash and Berenda Sloughs and
forage in the remaining open habitats of the
GP Area.
Highly colonial species that is most
Possible. Tile upland habitat of the Planning
numerous in the Central Valley;
Area provides suitable foraging habitat for this
requires tall emergent vegetation of
species. The areas in and around Berenda
freshwater marsh for nesting.
Reservoir supporting emergent vegetation
Forages on grassland and
provide suitable nesting habitat.
agricultural lands.
4.10-12
City of Chowchilla
State and Federal Species of Special Concern (Cont.)
Species
Status
Habitat
Yellow Warbler (Dendroica
petechia brewster)
CSC
Yuma Myotis
(Myotis yumanensis)
CSC
Spotted Bat
(Euderma maculatum)
CSC
Townsend's Western Bigeared Bat
(Corynorhinus townsendii
townsendii)
CSC
Spotted Bat
(Euderma maculatum)
CSC
Spotted Bat
(Euderma maculatum)
CSC
Townsend's Western Big-eared
Bat
(Corynorhinus townsendii
townsendii)
CSC
Pallid Bat
(Antrozous pallida)
CSC
Western Mastiff Bat
(Eumops perotis)
American Badger
(Taxidea taxus)
Thus species breeds in riparian
thickets of alder, willow and
cottonwoods. Migrants move through
many habitats of the state.
Forages over rivers and creeks, open
forests and woodlands are optimal
habitat. Roosts in buildings, mines,
caves, or crevices.
Possible. At most, individuals may seek
cover in the riparian vegetation of Ash and
Berenda Sloughs during spring and fall
migration.
Possible. Tile GP Area, particularly those
portions supporting open water, provide
suitable foraging habitat for tins species.
Roosting habitat is present in tile buildings
scattered throughout the GP Area
Forages over water and marshes.
Unlikely. Although the
Prefers sites with adequate roosting
GP Area provides potential foraging habitat,
habitat, such as cliffs. May move
thus species is not often found in the Central
from forests to lowlands in autumn.
Valley,
Prefers mesic habitats. Roosts in
Possible. The GP Area, particularly those
caves, tunnels, mines, and buildings.
Roosting habitat is present in various buildings
scattered throughout the GP Area.
Unlikely. Although the GP Area provides
potential foraging habitat, thus species is not
habitat, such as cliffs. May move from often found in the Central Valley,
forests to lowlands in autumn.
Unlikely. Although the GP Area provides
potential foraging habitat, thus species is not
habitat, such as cliffs. May move from often found in the Central Valley,
forests to lowlands in autumn.
Prefers mesic habitats. Roosts in
caves, tunnels, mines, and buildings.
Roosting habitat is present in tile various
buildings scattered throughout tile properties.
Prefers rocky outcrops, cliffs and
crevices with access to open habitats
for foraging. Roosts in caves,
suitable foraging habitat for tills species.
crevices, mines, and occasionally in
Roosting habitat is present in tile various
hollow trees and buildings.
buildings scattered throughout tile properties
and in tile trees along Ash and Berenda
Sloughs.
Prefers open arid habitats including
conifer and deciduous woodlands,
coastal scrub, grasslands and
chaparral. Roosts in crevices in cliff
Roosting habitat is present in the various
faces, high buildings, trees and
buildings scattered throughout tile properties
tunnels.
and in tile trees along Ash and Berenda
Sloughs.
Found in drier open stages of most
Possible. Suitable habitat is present within the
shrub, forest and herbaceous habitats GP Area for tins species, in particular in areas
with friable soils.
that are not routinely disced. There are
numerous burrows scattered throughout tile
Planning Area, some of winch could be
occupied by the American badger.
CSC
CSC
*Present: Species observed on the site at time of field surveys or during recent past.
Likely: Species not observed on the site, but it may reasonably be expected to occur there on a regular basis.
Possible: Species not observed on the site, but it could occur there from time to time.
Unlikely: Species not observed on the site, and would not be expected to occur there except, perhaps, as a transient.
Absent: Species not observed on the site, and precluded from occurring there because habitat requirements not met.
Status Codes
FE
FT
FPE
FC
CE
CT
CR
CP
CSC
Federally Endangered
Federally Threatened
Federally Endangered (proposed)
Federal Candidate
California Endangered
California Threatened
California Rare
California Protected
California Species of Special Concern
CNPS
1A
1B
2
California Native Plant Society Listing
Plants Presumed Extinct in California
Plants Rare, Threatened or Endangered in California and
elsewhere
Plants Rare, Threatened or Endangered in California, but
common more elsewhere
3
Plants about which we need more info
4
Plants of limited distribution-watch list
4.10-13
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 3
Special Species Status Locations within the Chowchilla 2040 Planning Area
4.10-14
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 4
Observed Locations of the San Joaquin Kit Fox
4.10-15
City of Chowchilla
Special Status Species Warranting Further Discussions
Most of the special status plant and animal species listed in Table 4.10 - 2 and Table
4.10 - 3 are believed to be absent or may occur rarely or occasionally within the
Planning Area. However, a few species have the potential to occur within the Planning
Area more frequently and will require further efforts to ascertain presence or absence.
These species include the conservancy fairy shrimp, longhorn fairy shrimp, vernal pool
fairy shrimp, vernal pool tadpole shrimp, valley elderberry longhorn beetle, California
tiger salamander, western spadefoot toad, western pond turtle, California horned lizard,
Swainson's hawk, northern harrier, Copper's hawk, western burrowing owl, long-eared
owl, black tern, California horned lark, loggerhead shrike, tri-colored blackbird, Yuma
myotis, Townsend's western big-eared bat, pallid bat, western mastiff bat, and American
badger. Below are detailed discussions that include an analysis of their legal status,
ecology, and the suitability of the site to support them.
Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
The valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB); Federally Threatened) is generally found
along waterways and in floodplains in the Central Valley that support remnant stands of
riparian vegetation. However, this species has been documented in upland habitat
supporting suitable vegetation. Specifically, elderberry shrubs must be present, as both
larvae and adults feed only on this plant.
Elderberry shrubs were observed along Ash and Berenda Sloughs, which not only flow
through the Planning Area but also run along the boundaries or through the three focus
areas and four special areas of interest. There is also a potential that scattered
elderberry shrubs in the upland habitat within the Planning Area; although none were
observed in the focus areas and special areas of interest. Therefore, habitat suitable for
the valley elderberry longhorn beetle could be eliminated within the Planning Area
where elderberry shrubs occur resulting in the extirpation of individuals.
Vernal Pool Species (Conservancy Fairy Shrimp, Longhorn Fairy Shrimp, Vernal
Pool Fairy Shrimp, Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp, California Tiger Salamander, and
Western Spadefoot toad)
There is a potential that some remnant vernal pool habitat remains within the Planning
Area; although, none occur within the boundaries of the focus areas and special areas
of interest. There are four shrimp species and two amphibian species that are known
to breed in the vernal pools of the Central Valley.
The conservancy fairy shrimp (Federally Endangered) and vernal pool tadpole shrimp
(Federally Endangered) prefer large pools that remain inundated for a long period of
time. However, the longhorn fairy shrimp (Federally Endangered) and vernal pool fairy
shrimp (Federally Threatened) occur in an assortment of habitats, from unvegetated tire
ruts to pristine vernal pools with varied durations of inundation. The California tiger
salamander (Federally Threatened and California Species of Special Concern) requires
pools to remain inundated for a minimum of ten weeks, consecutively, to ensure
4.10-16
City of Chowchilla
successful breeding and can travel up to one mile from estivation habitat (underground
refuge) to breeding pools. The California tiger salamander has been documented
breeding in not only large vernal pools, but other seasonal wetlands, such as stock
ponds as well. The western spadefoot toad (California Species of Special Concern) is
most commonly associated with vernal pools with suitable estivation habitat in the
immediate vicinity.
All six of these species require their breeding habitat be seasonal, dry up most if not
every year. Seasonality precludes the presence of aquatic predators, such as fish and
bullfrogs, and allows the cysts of the shrimp species to dry up completed, which is a
needed phase in their life cycle. The pools must also be stagnant, as wetlands or
waterways with high flows could wash cysts or larvae downstream. Also, stagnancy
results in cloudier water, making it more difficult for terrestrial and avian species to
predate on developing larvae and shrimp.
Therefore, habitat for up to six special status animal species endemic to vernal pool
habitats could be eliminated within the Planning Area where remnant habitat occurs.
Any of these species could be extirpated from the Planning Area if future development
were to disrupt pools suitable for these species.
Western Pond Turtle and California Horned Lizard
The western pond turtle (California Species of Special Concern) is the only native
aquatic (freshwater) turtle in California and it is found in a wide variety of aquatic
habitats including streams, lakes, and ponds. The California homed lizard (California
Species of Special Concern) inhabits a variety of habitats including exposed gravellysandy substrate containing scattered shrubs, riparian woodland clearings, chamise
chaparral, and annual grasslands.
Both of these species could occur within the Planning Area, including the three focus
areas and four special areas of interest. The western pond turtle could occur along Ash
and Berenda Sloughs or in any catch basin or wastewater treatment pond located
immediately adjacent to these sloughs. The California homed lizard could occur along
Ash and Berenda Sloughs or in any other undisturbed upland habitat (areas not
converted to agriculture or development) within the Planning Area.
Swainson's Hawk
In California's Central Valley the Swainson's hawk (California Threatened) can be found
from Colusa County south to Kern County. Nesting often occurs in tall riparian trees,
but this is not necessarily the case; pairs have been observed nesting in ornamental
trees, such as eucalyptus trees, on a number of occasions. This species forages in
open grasslands and agricultural fields for small mammals.
An abundance of foraging habitat is present for the Swainson's hawk throughout the
Planning Area, including the focus areas and special areas of interest. Suitable nesting
4.10-17
City of Chowchilla
habitat is available along Ash and Berenda Sloughs, with marginal habitat present in the
planted trees scattered in the upland portions of the Planning Area.
Seabird/Songbird Species (Black Tern, California Horned Lark, Loggerhead
Shrike, and Tri-Colored Blackbird)
The black tern, California horned lark, loggerhead shrike, and tri-colored blackbird (all
California Species of Special Concern) could all occur within the Planning Area as not
only foragers or transients, but as breeders as well. The black tern is a seabird species
that winters in Central and South America, but nests in Central California and other
areas of the northern United States and Canada, on lakeshores and marshes. The
California horned lark, loggerhead shrike, and tri-colored blackbird are residents to
California and occur in a variety of open habitats. The California horned lark is a ground
nesting bird, breeding in open fields. The loggerhead shrike is a typical songbird,
building nests in large shrubs and trees. The tri-colored blackbird builds nests in
wetlands supporting dense, emergent vegetation.
Suitable habitat for the black tern and tri-colored blackbird is present along Berenda
Reservoir (a special area of interest) and Berenda Slough in the northeastern portion of
the Planning Area. The tern will likely remain along the shores of the Reservoir,
whereas the blackbird could occur not only where emergent vegetation is present along
the Reservoir banks, but also within the stretches of Berenda Slough where the
vegetation is suitable. Additionally, any catch basin of suitable size with appropriate
vegetation in other portions of the Planning Area may also provide suitable habitat for
these two species. The California horned lark and loggerhead shrike could occur
throughout the Planning Area including the focus areas and special areas of interest.
Other Raptor Species (Northern Harrier, Copper's Hawk, Western Burrowing Owl,
and Long-Eared Owl)
Suitable habitat is abundant throughout the Planning Area for a number of raptor
species. A number of species listed as California Species of Special Concern, the
northern harrier, Copper's hawk, western burrowing owl, and long-eared owl, could not
only forage within the open habitats of the Planning Area, but may also breed locally.
The northern harrier and burrowing owl are both ground nesting raptors. The northern
harrier builds nests on the ground within marshlands, often near the base of shrubs.
The burrowing owl nests in rodent burrows, most commonly in ground squirrel burrows.
The remaining species, the Copper's hawk and long-eared owl, are both tree nesting
raptors.
In addition, according to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, all raptors are protected.
Therefore, development within the Planning Area could impact not only those species
listed as California Species of Special Concern, but also common raptor species, such
as the red-tailed hawk and red-shouldered hawk. These raptors will only be protected
during the breeding season.
4.10-18
City of Chowchilla
Bat Species (Yuma Myotis, Townsend's Western Big-Eared Bat, Pallid Bat, and
Western Mastiff Bat)
Suitable habitat is abundant throughout the Planning Area for a number of bat species.
A number of species listed as California Species of Special Concern, the Yuma myotis,
Townsend's western big-eared bat, pallid bat, and western mastiffbat, could not only
forage within the open habitats of the Planning Area, but may also breed locally. The
open habitats of the Planning Area provide likely foraging habitat for these four special
status bat species and a number of other common species of bats. Additionally, the
various structures scattered throughout the Planning Area and/or the trees along Ash
and Berenda Sloughs provide possible roosting habitat for these species.
As with the raptors, not only are the bat species listed as California Species of Special
Concern protected, but all species of bats according to the California Fish and Game
Code. Therefore, development within the Planning Area could impact not only those
species listed as California Species of Special Concern, but also common bat species,
such as Mexican free-tail bats.
American Badger
The American badger (California Species of Special Concern) is a large carnivorous
mammal with a widespread distribution throughout California, with the exception of a
portion of Del Norte and Humboldt Counties in the northwestern portion of the state.
Badgers can be found in a variety of habitats. The only requirements of this species are
sufficient food (small mammals), friable soils, and open habitat. Badgers reside in
burrows, both abandoned rodent burrows and self-dug burrows.
4.10.1.4
Rancho Calera Specific Plan
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan Area is located in the northeastern portion of the
current City Limits and replaces part of a previously adopted specific plan – Greenhills
Estates and Golf Club Specific Plan. The Greenhills Estates and Golf Club Specific
Plan were adopted by the City of Chowchilla in 1990. Since its adoption 1990,
implementation of the Greenhills Estates and Golf Club Specific Plan has been limited
to the area south of East Robertson Boulevard and has included the construction of a
private golf course and country club, gated residential neighborhoods, and a retail
commercial center accessible to the general public. Approximately 440 acres of the
proposed project was annexed into the City of Chowchilla in 1990 as part of the
Greenhills Estates and Golf Club Specific Plan (Eastside Annexation). This land has
been fallowed and has been designated as urban by the City’s existing General Plan, as
well as the 2040 General Plan. The remaining 145 acres are proposed to be annexed
by the City (136 acres in Rancho Calera). This land is also fallow with the exception of
a remnant 20 acre vineyard operation and horse grazing on a small parcel to the west
near Ash Slough. See Figure 4.10 - 5 for aerial of site and surrounding land uses.
4.10-19
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 5
Rancho Calera and Surrounding Land Uses
The proposed Rancho Calera Specific Plan Area is located northeast of the Highway
99/East Robertson Boulevard interchange. The proposed Plan Area is located directly
south of Ash Slough and north of East Robertson Boulevard and the Greenhills Estates
and Pheasant Run Golf Course. The western boundary is formed by Highway 99 and
the eastern project boundary is formed by the City’s easterly most City Limits.
Rancho Calera Specific Plan covers approximately 576 acres and of mostly fallow land,
however one remnant vineyard remains of approximately 20 acres. The Regan
Elementary School was constructed on the site in 2008. The land south of East
Robertson Boulevard consists of residential, commercial and open space land uses
(golf course and ornamental lakes). Ash Slough forms the northerly border and there
are active agricultural operations north of Ash Slough. Ash Slough is an average of
approximately 572 feet wide where it borders the proposed project area. Beyond the
eastern border of the project is agricultural land consisting of vineyards and open land.
Highway 99 and the developed City form the westerly border. Rancho Calera’s land
use plan is shown in Figure 4.10 - 6.
4.10-20
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 6
Rancho Calera Specific Plan Land Use Plan
4.10-21
City of Chowchilla
4.10.1.5 Regulatory Framework
The following section describes the federal, state, and local environmental laws,
policies, plans, and agencies that are relevant to the proposed General Plan Update
and the Planning Area.
Federal
Federal Endangered Species Act
The United States Congress passed the federal Endangered Species Act (16 United
States Code Sections 460 et seq.) in 1973 to protect those species that are endangered
or threatened with extinction. The FESA is intended to operate in conjunction with the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to help protect the ecosystems upon which
endangered and threatened species depend.
The FESA prohibits the “take” of endangered or threatened wildlife species. “Take” is
defined as harassing, harming (including significantly modifying or degrading habitat),
pursuing, hunting, shooting, wounding, killing, trapping, capturing, or collecting wildlife
species or any attempt to engage in such conduct (16 U.S.C. Section 1532, 50 Code
Fed. Regs. Section 17.3). Actions that result in a take can result in civil or criminal
penalties.
Under the FESA, federal agencies must ensure that the actions they fund, authorize, or
carry out are not likely to jeopardize protected species. For example, the FESA and
Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) prohibit the issuance of wetland
permits for projects that will result in the take of a threatened or endangered wildlife or
plant species. Under FESA, the U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) must inquire of
the USFWS and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) whether any
protected species or their critical habitat may be present in the area of the proposed
federal action [16 U.S.C. Sections 1536(a)(2), (c)(1)]. If they may be present, USACE
must prepare a biological assessment analyzing whether the action is likely to affect
such species. If the assessment concludes that a protected species or a critical habitat
is likely to be affected, the agency must formally consult with the USFWS or NMFS. In
the context of the General Plan Planning Area, the FESA will be triggered if
development resulted in take of a threatened or endangered species or if issuance of a
Section 404 permit or other federal agency action could result in the take of a
threatened or endangered species.
Clean Water Act
USACE regulates discharge of dredged or fill material into “waters of the United States”
under Section 404 of the CWA. “Discharges of fill material” are defined as the addition
of fill material into waters of the U.S., including, but not limited to, placement of fill that is
necessary for the construction of any structure, or impoundment requiring rock, sand,
dirt, or other material for its construction; site-development fills for recreational,
industrial, commercial, residential, and other uses; causeways or road fills; and fill for
intake and outfall pipes and sub aqueous utility lines [33 C.F.R. Section 328.2(f)]. In
4.10-22
City of Chowchilla
addition, Section 401 of the CWA (33 U.S.C. 1341) requires any applicant for a federal
license or permit to conduct any activity that may result in a discharge of a pollutant into
waters of the United States to obtain certification that the intended dredge or fill activity
will comply with the state’s effluent limitations and water quality standards.
Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S.
Waters of the U.S. that are subject to the jurisdiction of USACE include navigable
waters of the United States, interstate waters, all other waters where the use or
degradation or destruction of the waters could affect interstate or foreign commerce,
tributaries to any of these waters, and wetlands that meet any of these criteria or that
are adjacent to any of these waters or their tributaries. Wetlands are defined as “those
areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and
duration sufficient to support and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence
of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions” [33 C.F.R. Section
328.3(b)]. Presently, to be considered a wetland, a site must exhibit all three criteria––
hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology––existing under the “normal
circumstances” for the site. Furthermore, jurisdictional waters of the U.S. can be
defined by exhibiting a defined bed and bank and ordinary high water mark.
The lateral extent of non-tidal waters is determined by delineating the ordinary
high water mark (OHWM) [33 C.F.R. Section 328.4I(1)]. The OHWM is defined
by the Corps as “that line on shore established by the fluctuations of water and
indicated by physical character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation,
the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the
characteristics of the surrounding areas” [33 C.F.R. Section 328.3(e)].
Isolated wetlands are not subject to USACE jurisdiction under Section 404 of the CWA,
pursuant to the “SWANCC” decision (Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v.
United States Army Corps of Engineers (2001) 531 U.S. 159). According to the
SWANCC decision, wetlands that are non-navigable, isolated, and intrastate may not be
subject to USACE jurisdiction. Although isolated wetlands are not subject to USACE
jurisdiction under Section 404 of the CWA, they are considered “waters of the State”
under California’s Porter Cologne Act (Cal. Water Code Sections 13020 et seq.) and,
as such, are subject to regulation by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control
Board (RWQCB). The RWQCB generally takes jurisdiction over “waters of the State”
that are not subject to USACE jurisdiction under the federal CWA in cases where
USACE has determined that certain features do not fall under its jurisdiction. Mitigation
requiring a no-net-loss of wetlands functions and values of waters of the State is
typically required.
Other Federal Requirements
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (42 U.S.C. Sections 703–712) implements
international treaties between the United States and other nations devised to protect
migratory birds, their parts, eggs, and nests from activities such as hunting, pursuing,
capturing, killing, selling, and shipping, unless expressly authorized in the regulations or
by permit. The State of California has incorporated the protection of birds of prey in
4.10-23
City of Chowchilla
Sections 3800, 3513, and 3503.5 of the Fish and Game Code (FGC). Section 3503.5 of
the California Fish and Game Code states that it is “unlawful to take, possess, or
destroy any birds in the order Falconiformes or Strigiformes or to take, possess, or
destroy the nest or eggs of any such bird except as otherwise provided by this code or
any regulation adopted pursuant thereto.” All raptors and their nests are protected from
take or disturbance under the MBTA (16 United States Code [USC], Section 703 et
seq.) and California statute (FGC Section 3503.5).
The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) are
also afforded additional protection under the Eagle Protection Act, amended in 1973 (16
USC, Section 669 et seq.).
Executive Order 13112 - Invasive Species directs all federal agencies to refrain from
authorizing, funding, or carrying out actions or projects that may spread invasive
species. The order further directs federal agencies to prevent the introduction of
invasive species, control and monitor existing invasive species populations, restore
native species to invaded ecosystems, research and develop prevention and control
methods for invasive species, and promote public education on invasive species. As
part of the proposed action, USFWS and USACE will issue permits and therefore will be
responsible for ensuring that the proposed action complies with Executive Order 13112
and does not contribute to the spread of invasive species.
The Recovery Plan for Upland Species of the San Joaquin Valley, California
The Planning Area lies within the coverage area of the Recovery Plan for Upland
Species of the San Joaquin Valley, California (USFWS 1998). The primary objective of
this recovery plan is the recovery of 11 endangered and threatened species, along with
protection and long-term conservation of candidate species and species of special
concern. The species covered in the plan inhabit grasslands and scrublands of the San
Joaquin Valley, adjacent foothills, and small valleys. Species covered within this plan
are classified as species of local concern (SLC) in this report. The Recovery Plan does
not identify the area within and surrounding the Planning Area as having regional
biological significance for the species covered within the plan. The Planning Area is not
near or within areas proposed for reserves or where connectivity and linkages should be
promoted.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Draft Vernal Pool Recovery Plan
USFWS designated critical habitat for certain vernal pool crustaceans and plants in 34
counties in California and identified such habitat in its final rule of the vernal pool
recovery plan on February 10, 2006, entitled Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and
Plants; Final Designation of Critical Habitat for Four Vernal Pool Crustaceans and
Eleven Vernal Pool Plants in California and Southern Oregon; Evaluation of Economic
Exclusions From August 2003 Final Designation [71 Fed. Reg. 28 (2006) (to be
codified at 50 CFR Part 17)]. The Recovery Plan identifies a five-part strategy to
ameliorate or eliminate threats to affected species and to preserve intact vernal pools.
The five key elements of the Recovery Plan are habitat protection; adaptive habitat
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City of Chowchilla
management, restoration, and monitoring; status surveys; research; and participation
and outreach. The Recovery Plan identifies habitat loss, fragmentation, and isolation of
functional vernal pool ecosystems as the greatest threat to the survival and recovery of
listed species and species of concern that are found in vernal pools. According to the
Recovery Plan, habitat loss is generally the result of urbanization, agricultural
conversion, and mining. Habitat loss may also occur from habitat alteration and
degradation as a result of changes to natural hydrology; invasive species; incompatible
grazing regimes, including insufficient grazing for prolonged periods; and infrastructure
projects such as roads, water storage and conveyance, and utilities. In addition,
recreational activities such as off-highway vehicles and hiking, erosion, contamination,
and inadequate management and monitoring may result in habitat loss. Habitat
fragmentation is generally the result of activities associated with habitat loss due to road
and other infrastructure projects that contribute to the isolation and fragmentation of
vernal pool habitats.
State
California Endangered Species Act
Under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), the California Department of
Fish and Game has the responsibility for maintaining a list of endangered and
threatened species (Fish and Game Code – FGC 2070). Sections 2050 through 2098
of the FGC outline the protection provided to California’s rare, endangered, and
threatened species. Section 2080 of the FGC prohibits the taking of plants and animals
listed under the CESA. Section 2081 established an incidental take permit program for
state-listed species. CDFG maintains a list of “candidate species” which are species
that CDFG formally notices as being under review for addition to the list of endangered
or threatened species.
Native Plant Protection Act of 1977
The Native Plant Protection Act of 1977 (FGC Section 1900 et seq.) prohibits the taking,
possessing, or sale within the state of any plants with a state designation of rare,
threatened, or endangered (as defined by CDFG). An exception to this prohibition in
the act allows landowners, under specified circumstances, to take listed plant species,
provided that the owners first notify CDFG and give that state agency at least 10 days to
come and retrieve (and presumably replant) the plants before they are plowed under or
otherwise destroyed (FGC, Section 1913 exempts from take prohibition “the removal of
endangered or rare native plants from a canal, lateral ditch, building site, or road, or
other right of way”). Project impacts to these species are not considered significant
unless the species are known to have a high potential to occur within the area of
disturbance associated with construction of the proposed project.
Other State Requirements
CDFG maintains lists of “species of special concern” which serve as species “watch
lists.” CDFG has also identified many species of special concern. Species with this
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City of Chowchilla
status have limited distribution or the extent of their habitats has been reduced
substantially, such that their populations may be threatened. Thus, their populations
are monitored, and they may receive special attention during environmental review.
While they do not have statutory protection, they may be considered rare under CEQA
and thereby warrant specific protection measures.
Sensitive species that will qualify for listing but are not currently listed are afforded
protection under CEQA. CEQA Guidelines Section 15065 (Mandatory Findings of
Significance) requires that a substantial reduction in numbers of a rare or endangered
species be considered a significant effect. CEQA Guidelines Section 15380 (Rare or
Endangered Species) provides for assessment of unlisted species as rare or
endangered under CEQA if the species can be shown to meet the criteria for listing.
Unlisted plant species on the California Native Plant Society’s Lists 1A, 1B, and 2 will
typically be considered under CEQA.
Sections 3500 to 5500 of the FGC outline protection for fully protected species of
mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Species that are fully protected by
these Sections may not be taken or possessed at any time. CDFG cannot issue
permits or licenses that authorize the take of any fully protected species, except under
certain circumstances such as scientific research and live capture and relocation of
such species pursuant to a permit for the protection of livestock.
Under Section 3503.5 of the FGC it is unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds in
the orders of Falconiformes or Strigiformes (birds of prey) or to take, possess, or
destroy the nest or eggs of any such bird except as otherwise provided by this code or
any regulation adopted pursuant thereto.
Pursuant to the requirements of CESA, an agency reviewing a proposed project within
its jurisdiction must determine whether any state-listed endangered or threatened
species may be present in the project study area and determine whether the proposed
project will have a potentially significant impact on such species. In addition, CDFG
encourages informal consultation on any proposed project that may impact a candidate
species.
Impacts to species associated with projects implemented under the General Plan
Update on the CESA endangered or threatened list will be considered significant.
State-listed species are fully protected under the mandates of the CESA. Take of
protected species incidental to otherwise lawful management activities may be
authorized under FGC Section 206.591. Authorization from CDFG will be in the form of
an Incidental Take Permit.
State and local public agencies are subject to Section 1602 of the FGC, which governs
construction activities that will substantially divert or obstruct the natural flow or
substantially change the bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake designated
by the CDFG. Under Section 1602, a discretionary Stream Alteration Agreement permit
from CDFG (Region 4 for the General Plan Update) must be issued by CDFG to the
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City of Chowchilla
project applicant for subsequent projects under the General Plan Update prior to the
initiation of construction activities within lands under CDFG jurisdiction.
Non-governmental Agency
California Native Plant Society
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) maintains a list of plant species native to
California that are found in low numbers, have limited distribution, or are otherwise
threatened with extinction. This information is published in the Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Potential impacts to populations of CNPSlisted plants receive consideration under CEQA review. The following identifies the
definitions of the CNPS listings:
•
List 1A:
Plants Believed Extinct.
•
List 1B:
Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California and
elsewhere.
•
List 2:
Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California, but more
numerous elsewhere.
•
List 3:
Plants about Which We Need More Information - A Review List.
•
List 4:
Plants of Limited Distribution - A Watch List.
Plant species designated as List 3 and 4 will not be discussed in this section since they
do not generally receive protection from any government agencies.
Local
Madera County General Plan
The unincorporated areas outside the city limits but within the Planning Area are not
governed by the City of Chowchilla but are governed by Madera County. The goals,
objectives, and policies within the Madera County General Plan are applicable to the
unincorporated parts of the City of Chowchilla General Plan Planning Area. The
Madera County General Plan Agricultural and Natural Resources Chapter includes
goals and policies relating to wetlands and riparian areas, fish and wildlife habitat,
vegetation and open space for the preservation of natural resources (Madera County
1995).
•
To protect and enhance the natural quality of Madera County’s streams, creeks,
and groundwater (Goal 5.C).
•
To protect wetland communities and related riparian areas throughout Madera
County as valuable resources (Goal 5.D).
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City of Chowchilla
•
The County shall comply with the wetlands policies of USACE, USFWS, and
CDFG. Coordination with these agencies at all levels of project review shall
continue to ensure that appropriate mitigation measures and the concerns of
these agencies are adequately addressed (Policy 5.D.1).
•
The County shall require new development to mitigate wetland loss in both
regulated and non-regulated wetlands through any combination of avoidance,
minimization, or compensation. The County shall support mitigation banking
programs that can provide the opportunity to mitigate impacts to rare, threatened
and endangered species and/or the habitat which supports these species in
wetland and riparian areas (Policy 5.D.2).
4.10.2 Impacts and Mitigation Measures
Methodology
This analysis reviews the impacts to Biological Resources by the build-out of the 2040
General Plan within the Planning Area Boundaries and the Rancho Calera Specific
Plan. The total build-out of 14,000 acres includes the 10,109 acres (gross) of the
planning area outside of the existing City Limits and the 3,891 acres within the existing
City Limits, plus a market factor of 50 percent. The acres that make up the 50 percent
market value, which add up to 3,431 are designated as “Urban Reserve” in the 2040
General Plan within the Planning Area Boundaries and graphically shown as “Urban
Reserve” on the 2040 General Plan Map. At full build-out the 2040 General Plan will
need a net total of 8,351 acres in addition to the existing 3,891 acres within the existing
City Limits based on 5.3 percent growth rate over the General Plan’s 30 year planning
horizon. The Chowchilla 2040 General Plan Land Use Element describes the growth
rate and definition of “Urban Reserve.” ”
Live Oak Associates, Inc. compiled a Biotic Survey Report for the City of Chowchilla
2040 General Plan Update. This technical report describes the biotic resources of the
City of Chowchilla Planning Area, Madera County, California, and evaluates possible
impact to those resources resulting from any future disturbance or development. The
Chowchilla and Le Grand U.S.G.S. quadrangles were used to compile this data.
Within the Planning Area, three focus areas and four special areas of interest were
evaluated at a more specific level, ·with emphasis placed on the three focus areas. The
three focus areas include the Westside Annexation Property, Eastside Annexation
Property, and the Wellington Group Property, which is the Rancho Callera Specific Plan
area. The four special areas of interest include the Highway 99 and State Route 233
intersection, the extension of Avenue 24 over Berenda Slough, the construction of a
Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the Berenda Reservoir capacity change.
The impact analysis and mitigation proposals found in this section have been based on
the known and potential biotic resources of the study area. Sources of information used
in the preparation of this analysis included: (1) the California Natural Diversity Data
Base (CDFG 2005); (2) the Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of
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City of Chowchilla
California (CNPS 2001); and (3) miscellaneous other planning documents and biological
studies from the general project vicinity.
Additional information was gathered in the field by Live Oak Associates, Inc. These
surveys consisted of driving the roadways of the entire Planning Area and scanning the
land for all biotic resources. Portions of the focus areas and areas of interest were
surveyed by walking meander transects so as to provide as much visual coverage as
possible. Information gathered in the field was used to identify plant communities and
characterize the botanical and wildlife resources occurring within the Planning Area and
in the region.
Detailed surveys for sensitive biological resources were not conducted for this study.
The level of effort was sufficient to locate and establish the general extent of wetland
and special status species habitat that might be present, but was not sufficient to
establish wetland boundaries or the extent of actual use of on-site habitats by special
status species. Field surveys conducted for this study were sufficient to assess the
significance of biological constraints associated with the site, and to assess the need for
more detailed study that could be warranted if sensitive biotic resources were identified
in this first round of surveys. Delineating all wetlands that may be present or mapping
the extent of all endangered species habitat present will only be warranted preliminary
to detailed site planning.
Standards of Significance
The impact analysis provided below is based on the following State CEQA Guidelines
Appendix G thresholds of significance:
•
Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications,
on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in
local or regional plans, policies or regulations, or by CDFG or USFWS.
•
Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive
natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations or
by CDFG or USFWS.
•
Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or
other means.
•
Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish
or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
•
Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources,
such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance.
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City of Chowchilla
•
Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan.
•
Substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop
below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, or
substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or
threatened species.
PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.10.2.1
General Plan Impacts to Special-Status Species
Implementation of the proposed General Plan Update could result in direct and indirect
loss of habitat and individuals of endangered, threatened, rare, proposed, or candidate
status or of California fully protected species, as well as plant species identified by the
California Native Plant Society as a List 1A or 1B species (i.e., rare, threatened or
endangered plants). However, the proposed 2040 General Plan Update includes
policies and action items that will ensure that impacts to special-status species are
adequately mitigated. This impact will be less than significant.
Direct Impacts of the Proposed General Plan Update
As discussed above, suitable habitat for plant and wildlife species listed as endangered,
threatened, rare, proposed, candidate, or listed as “fully protected” in the California Fish
and Game Code (Sections 3511, 4700, 5050, 5515) or List 1A or 1B (collectively
referred to in this DEIR as “listed species”) is found within the Planning Area. Eighteen
special status vascular plant species are known to occur in the general vicinity of the
City of Chowchilla. The Planning Area potentially supports isolated populations of the
18 special status plant species in areas that have not been significantly modified for
agricultural purposes or development. Without conducting site specific surveys of the
entire Planning Area, it is assumed that there is a potential for special status plant
species to be impacted by the build out of future projects. Therefore, impacts to special
status plants within the Planning Area are assumed to be significant. However, all 18 of
these species are believed to be absent from the three focus areas and four areas of
special interest. Therefore, impact to special status plants on the focus areas and
special areas of interest are assumed to be less than significant. Development under
the proposed General Plan Update could directly impact such habitat. Most direct
biological resource impacts will occur from development of large areas of generally
undeveloped agricultural land and annual grassland and the areas adjacent to the
riparian corridors; however, additional impacts will occur from infill development and
redevelopment in the city’s center.
Of the 43 special status species potentially occurring in the region of the Planning Area,
six will not occur or will be unlikely to occur within the Planning Area due to the absence
of suitable habitat. These species include the blunt-nosed leopard lizard, giant garter
snake, bald eagle, white-faced ibis, spotted bat, and San Joaquin kit fox. Eventual
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City of Chowchilla
development within the Planning Area will have no effect on these six species, because
there is little or no likelihood that they are present.
In addition to these six species, an additional six species for a total of 12 species could
be ruled out as occurring within the three focus areas and four special areas of interest
due to the lack of suitable habitat. These additional species include conservancy fairy
shrimp, longhorn fairy shrimp, vernal pool fairy shrimp, vernal pool tadpole shrimp,
California tiger salamander, and western spadefoot toad. Wetland habitat, in particular
vernal pools, suitable for these six species were absent from the focus areas and
special areas of interest. In fact the only habitat present that could even be considered
marginal for these species (i.e. areas that receive water and stay inundated for a period
of time) are the sloughs, the irrigation/drainage ditches, and catch basins. However, the
sloughs are not stagnant enough to support population of these six wetland species and
the ditches and basins hold water for the majority of the year (i.e. do not dry up during
the summer months) and will be considered contaminated from agricultural herbicides
and fertilizers. Therefore, the possible development of the focus areas and special
areas of interest will have little or no effect on these additional six species.
14 avian species will at most pass through or over the Planning Area as migrants,
transients, or foragers (Table 4). These species include the American peregrine falcon,
greater sandhill crane, willow flycatcher, sharp-shinned hawk, Ferruginous hawk, golden
eagle, merlin., prairie falcon, mountain plover, long-billed curlew, short-eared owl, black
swift, Vaux's swift, and yellow warbler. Although all of the aforementioned species
could occur on the site from time to time, the site possesses no intrinsic habitat qualities
that make it uniquely valuable for these species. In fact, these species pass through or
forage within many types of habitats en route to breeding or wintering habitat.
Considerable habitat suitable for migratory movements and foraging will continue to be
available for these species after possible development within the Planning Area.
Furthermore, future development will not preclude the Planning Area use by at least
some of these species in the future. Therefore, the possible development of portions of
the Planning Area will have little or no effect on these species regionally. There are no
species in addition to the 14 listed above expected to be migrants, transients, or
foragers on the three focus areas and four special areas of interest.
23 may breed within portions of the Planning Area (fable 4). These species include the
conservancy fairy shrimp, longhorn fairy shrimp, vernal pool fairy shrimp, vernal pool
tadpole shrimp, valley elderberry longhorn beetle, California tiger salamander, western
spadefoot toad, western pond turtle, California horned lizard, Swainson's hawk, northern
harrier, Copper's hawk, western burrowing owl, long-eared owl, black tern, California
homed lark, loggerhead shrike, tri-colored blackbird, Yuma myotis, Townsend's western
big-eared bat, pallid bat, western mastiffbat, and American badger.
Of these 23 species, only 17 may breed within the focus areas and special areas of
interest. The conservancy fairy shrimp, longhorn fairy shrimp, vernal pool fairy shrimp,
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City of Chowchilla
vernal pool tadpole shrimp, California tiger salamander, and western spadefoot toad are
not expected to occur within these areas due to the lack of suitable habitat.
Development under the proposed General Plan Update could potentially cause direct
impacts to approximately 8,351 acres of ruderal (vacant), agricultural land, annual
grasslands, wetlands/open waters, and riverine/riparian habitat that may serve as
occupied or potential habitat for listed species. As the final design and extent of future
development is not currently known, the acreages listed in Table 4.10 - 4, below,
represent the maximum area that could be directly affected.
Table 4.10 - 4
Listed Special-status Species Organized by
Impacted Land Cover Types Within the Planning Area
Land Cover Type
Agricultural Lands
Annual Grasslands
Ruderal
Riverine/Riparian
Wetlands/Open Water
Common Name
Blunt-nosed leopard lizard
Giant garter snake
San Joaquin kit fox
Succulent owl’s-clover*
Palmate-bracted bird’s-beak
San Joaquin Valley Orcutt grass*
Hairy Orcutt grass*
Greene’s tuctoria*
Conservancy fairy shrimp
Vernal pool fairy shrimp
California tiger salamander
Giant garter snake
Fresno kangaroo rat
San Joaquin kit fox
Fresno kangaroo rat
San Joaquin kit fox
Valley elderberry longhorn beetle**
Central Valley steelhead
Giant garter snake
San Joaquin kit fox
Succulent owl’s-clover*
Palmate-bracted bird’s-beak
San Joaquin Valley Orcutt grass*
Hairy Orcutt grass*
Greene’s tuctoria*
Conservancy fairy shrimp
Vernal pool fairy shrimp
California tiger salamander
Giant garter snake
TOTAL
Impacted Acreage within the
Planning Area
7,414
618
0
140
179
8,351
*These species are restricted to vernal pool habitat.
**Suitable habitat for the VELB only includes elderberry shrubs.
The species that may occur within the Planning Area have been divided into Primary
Species of Significance, those with formal state of federal listings (i.e. valley elderberry
longhorn beetle, vernal pool species, and Swainson's hawk) and Secondary Species of
Significance, those listed as California Species of Special Concern. Mitigation
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City of Chowchilla
measures to offset impact to the special status animal species that my breed within the
Planning Area is discussed below.
Actual direct impacts to these land cover types may be less, depending on the ultimate
design of individual developments as determined through application of proposed
General Plan Update policies on a project-specific basis and project-specific compliance
with state and federal agency requirements.
As discussed in further detail in Section 1.0, Introduction, this DEIR is a programmatic
analysis of the broad environmental effects of the overall proposed 2040 General Plan
Update. Goals, policies, and action items contained within the proposed General Plan
Update will apply to all future development and infrastructure projects considered by the
City within the Planning Area. Future proposed projects that have the potential to cause
a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment will
undergo additional, project-specific CEQA review, as required by statute. Those future
projects will also be subject to the FESA and CESA, as appropriate.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Listed Plant Species
Listed plant species with the potential to occur in the Planning Area include Colusa
Grass, San Joaquin Valley Orcutt, Hairy Orcutt Grass, Greene's Tuctoria, Heartscale,
Brittlescale, Lesser Saltscale, Vernal Pool Small scale, Subtle Orache and Hoover's
Calycadenia. Implementation of the General Plan Update may directly impact these
species by direct take (removal or trampling) during construction or through destruction
or degradation of these species’ habitat(s). Direct and indirect impacts to remaining
natural communities (vernal pools and annual grassland habitat) where these species
are found will occur as a result of implementation of the General Plan Update.
Subsequent development under the General Plan Update could result in direct take of
these species or direct loss of habitat associated with these listed and/or candidate
plant species, since these habitat conditions do occur within the Planning Area.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle
The general recognizance study performed by Live Oak Associates recognized the
likelihood of Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetles within the Planning Area. They will be
located within the Ash and Berenda Slough Riparian area. Until a specific recognizance
study is prepared for the Elderberry Beetle, it should be considered present in the above
described area. Although they are likely to be present, the Ash and Berenda Slough
corridors are designated as open space on the Chowchilla 2040 General Plan Land Use
map. This means that the corridors will not be subjected to construction activities. A
buffer of 20 feet or more from the bank on both sides of each slough will make up the
open space corridor. This corridor is the predominant habitat for the Valley Elderberry
Longhorn Beetle.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Listed Vernal Pool Species
Vernal pool species Conservancy fairy shrimp, Vernal pool fairy shrimp, California tiger
salamander, Giant garter snake are dependent upon seasonally ponded water such as
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City of Chowchilla
vernal pools and seasonal wetlands for their entire life cycle. The Land Use Element
proposes development to occur on approximately 618 acres of annual grassland habitat
and 179 wetlands/open water within the Planning Area where seasonally ponded water
could occur which will support these species. Based on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Services Wetland Online Mapper service, most of the listed vernal pool areas
(Freshwater Emergent or Freshwater Pond Wetland or Riverine) are either within the
Ash and Berenda Slough/Reservoir open space area or within the wastewater treatment
plant property. Other vernal pool locations, mostly classified as Freshwater Ponds or
Freshwater Emergent Wetlands, are mostly located outside of the Planning Area, but
are within the Sphere of Influence and the Secondary Planning Area; please see Figure
4.10 - 7 and Figure 4.10 - 8 for detail. Direct removal of vernal pools, a CDFG sensitive
habitat, or other seasonally ponded area that is likely to support these species will result
in direct take of federally listed species. Development around these sensitive habitat
areas will likely result in degradation of habitat and take of federally listed species.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Swainson’s Hawk
Implementation of the General Plan Update will result in disturbance and degradation of
foraging habitat for Swainson’s hawk and removal of large trees for nesting. The statelisted Swainson’s hawk prefers low-growing cropland such as alfalfa and fallow fields for
foraging but will forage on most vacant lands. The croplands, ruderal habitat (vacant
lands), and annual grasslands within the Planning Area are suitable foraging habitat for
this species. Conversion of farmland and open space into residential and commercial
development or incompatible farmland (e.g., orchard or vineyard) will significantly
reduce the foraging habitat for this special-status raptor species. The Swainson’s hawk
prefers large trees within riparian corridors, but will nest in trees throughout the Planning
Area. Removal of vegetation or other construction activities during the nesting season
may cause direct impacts to nesting Swainson’s hawk if the species is nesting within
250 feet of construction activities through direct take of the species (e.g., removal of
tree with active nest), disturbance to nesting activities (e.g., noise, vibration, or activity
near the nest) or degradation of foraging habitat causing nest failure.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to San Joaquin Kit Fox
The San Joaquin kit fox inhabits alkali sink, valley grassland, and foothill woodland.
This species may den or forage in the annual grassland and ruderal habitat within the
Planning Area. In addition, this species may use the riparian corridor or the irrigation
channels as movement corridors. Development within the Planning Area will have no
effect on these six species, because there is little or no likelihood that they are present.
Figure 4.10 - 7 depicts the location of the aforementioned special status species in
relation to the Chowchilla 2040 Planning Area.
4.10-34
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 7
Wetland Locations within the Chowchilla 2040 General Plan
4.10-35
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 8
Vernal Pool Locations
4.10-36
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 9
Special Status Species Location Map
4.10-37
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Indirect Impacts of the Proposed General Plan Update
Suitable habitat for listed plant and wildlife species exists within the Planning Area and
could be indirectly impacted by development under the proposed General Plan Update
(as identified in the Land Use Element).
Indirect impacts include increased
human/wildlife interactions, habitat fragmentation, and encroachment by exotic weeds,
and area-wide changes in surface water flows due to development of previously
undeveloped areas.
Increased Human/Wildlife Interactions
The major circulation features identified in the proposed General Plan Update will result
in increased vehicular traffic (auto and pedestrian), increasing the amount and severity
of indirect impacts to wildlife and habitat in the Planning Area, specifically adjacent to
the Berenda and Ash Slough corridors and agricultural land . Development of
residential and nonresidential uses will result in increased human presence in areas
formerly uninhabited by humans. Additionally, development of previously undeveloped
land for residential uses can expose species to impacts from feral and unconfined pets.
Habitat Fragmentation
Much of the habitat within the Planning Area used by listed species is currently
interconnected with large areas of agricultural land and sparse development that has a
minor impact on plant and wildlife species in the Planning Area; however, wide-scale
development of the Planning Area consistent with the proposed General Plan Update
could result in small pockets of conserved habitat that are no longer connected by
streams and open space, resulting in indirect impacts to species diversity and
movement within the Planning Area. Habitat fragmentation may result in reduced home
ranges and loss of foraging habitat that could decimate a population or reduce the
fitness of an individual, resulting in indirect take of listed species.
Encroachment by Exotic Weeds
Generally, landscaping installed as part of development in the region has relied heavily
on exotic, non-native plant species for decoration. However, some of these species can
spread to natural areas, causing native plant life to be replaced by exotic species.
Construction activities, grading, and other ground- or vegetation-clearing disturbances
can eliminate the native plant population and allow invasive non-native species to
become established. As native plants are replaced by exotic species, indirect impacts
to the habitat of listed species will occur, such as modification or degradation of habitat.
Changes in Surface Water Flows
As development occurs, surface water flows normally increase due to an increase in
impermeable surfaces through, for example, the placement of building materials and
paving over permeable surfaces. In addition, surface water flows are modified due to
changes in surface flow by point source stormwater infrastructure installed in order to
handle greater flows from the increasing impermeable surfaces as well as from the
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City of Chowchilla
introduction of drainage flows during seasons when waterways and wetland features
are typically dry (commonly referred to as “summer nuisance flows”). Some cover types
that contain habitat for listed species can be indirectly impacted by such changes. For
example, seasonal wetland and vernal pool communities survive along a rigid set of
soil, water, and climatic conditions. Alteration of current inundation and desiccation
regimes due to altered hydrology could substantially alter the characteristics of seasonal
wetland habitat, resulting in loss or degradation of seasonal wetland and vernal pool
habitat in developed and undeveloped areas of the Planning Area. Figure 4.10 - 7 and
Figure 4.10 - 8 show the locations of seasonal wetlands and vernal pools in reference to
the Planning Area.
The actual acreage ultimately impacted may be less than the estimates shown in Table
4.10 - 4, because future development design proposals will be subject to the application
of General Plan Update policies that address protection of biological resources, as well
as possible further review on a project-by-project basis. These policies and possible
further review are expected to reduce the impacts estimated in Table 4.10 - 4, which
ensure that the worst-case impacts are considered in this DEIR. As discussed
previously, subsequent environmental review may be necessary, depending on whether
the potential environmental impacts of future proposed projects within the Planning Area
have the potential to cause one or more direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect
physical change in the environment that has not already been adequately considered in
this DEIR.
Discussion of Indirect Impacts to Listed Plant Species
Indirect impacts to special-status plant species could occur with implementation of the
General Plan Update which may include habitat degradation as a result of impacts to
water quality (see Section 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality, regarding water quality
impacts) and increased human presence. With the conversion of annual grasslands
and open space into farmland or residential and commercial development, there is
increased potential for construction and landscaping activities to introduce invasive
exotic plant species to the area, causing native plant life to be replaced by exotic
species. As native plants are replaced by exotic species, indirect impacts to the habitat
of special-status species will occur, such as modification or degradation of habitat.
Discussion of Indirect Impacts to Listed Wildlife Species
Implementation of the proposed General Plan Update will increase incidental take from
additional traffic, increased human presence, increased urban runoff, and degradation
of the riparian area and other suitable habitat. In addition, roads and other development
can be a barrier to movements and can effectively isolate populations. Indirect impacts
such as noise or vibration may cause nest/den failure or abandonment of a nest/den of
listed species.
4.10-39
City of Chowchilla
4.10.2.1.a
Proposed 2040 General Plan Policies and Implementation Measures
that Provide Mitigation
The proposed General Plan Update contains a number of policies and mitigation
measures that will assist in reducing this impact. The following list contains those
policies and action items that include specific, enforceable requirements and/or
restrictions and corresponding performance standards that address this impact. The
reader is referred to Section 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality, for existing City
standards and programs as well as proposed General Plan Update policy provisions
that address water quality.
Policy LU-17.1: The City supports the Madera County General Plan objectives and
policies that:
1. Direct new industrial and commercial development to cities;
2. Require new residential development to be contiguous to urban
development and to annex to the City; and
3. Maintain limited agriculture land use designations within the City's
General Plan Planning Area boundary.
Policy LU-17.2 The City supports the Madera County General Plan objectives and
policies which protect agricultural lands by:
1. Maintaining large parcel sizes and preventing the development of
incompatible urban uses;
2. Specifically maintaining large parcels adjacent to urban areas prior
to conversion to urban uses; and
3. Preventing the division of parcels less than ten acres in size within
the City's General Plan Planning Area.
Policy LU-7.3: New development on the fringes of the City shall recognize the right of
agriculture to exist and continue to operate in proximity to the
development. Deed restrictions may be required which inform future
residents of the right of agriculture to continue within the limits of the
law without interference or protest from nearby property owners.
Policy LU-17.4: The City will seek an agreement with Madera County to control and
regulate growth east of the Planning Area boundary at Road 19 and
SR 99 to maintain an agricultural buffer of at least ½ mile between the
community of Fairmead and the City. In no circumstances shall public
utilities or services be extended beyond the eastern Planning Area
boundary that will promote or allow urban growth in the buffer area
unless a reasonable position can be taken that such infrastructure is
necessary to support only the HSR Heavy Maintenance Facility,
extension of major road facilities that provide improved access to the
State system, or another major jobs producing industry.
4.10-40
City of Chowchilla
Policy LU-17.5: The City prefers contiguous urban development within the General
Plan Planning Area; however this may not always be feasible or
possible given short-term ownership and development financial
constraints. Development farther than one half mile from existing urban
uses shall be discouraged.
Policy LU-17.6: Urban development shall only occur within the City. Any urban
development requiring basic City services shall occur within the
incorporated City and within the Planning Area, subject to findings that
the development is not a premature use of agricultural land.
Policy LU-17.7: Land designated on the Land Use Map as “Urban Reserve” and in
agricultural production should not be converted to urban uses until all
the following findings are made:
1. The subject land is in the Secondary Planning Area and a master
plan has been prepared acceptable to the City and that there is a
compelling reason why adequate growth within the Planning Area
can not accommodate the planned growth in the City, or the growth
is reasonably necessary to serve the needs of the HSR Heavy
Maintenance Facility, extension of major road facilities that provide
improved access to the State system, or another major jobs
producing industry
2. That the development of the land will contribute to the
establishment of a stable urban limit and represents contiguous
urban development;
3. The land is needed to fill next ten year’s projected growth;
4. More than 50 percent of the land designated in the City for urban
uses has been developed or is under a tentative map;
5. The land is necessary to maintain 150% of projected urban need;
and
6. Annexation would not otherwise create substantial infrastructure
limitations.
Policy OS-1.1:
Coordinate with Madera County in the creation of a greenbelt / open
space buffer around the perimeter of the City of Chowchilla Sphere of
Influence boundary.
Implementation Measure OS 1.1.A The City of Chowchilla shall work with
Madera County to preserve agricultural
uses.
Policy OS 1.2:
Use open space in new development at the edge of the City of
Chowchilla Sphere of Influence boundary to create a greenbelt that
delineates the edge of the City’s urban area.
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City of Chowchilla
Policy OS-2.1:
Prior to annexing any Williamson Act lands, the City shall adopt
guidelines consistent with state laws that have specific criteria for
agricultural conversion.
Policy OS-2.2
The City shall work with the County to preserve lands dedicated as
“Agriculture” within and adjacent to the City Sphere of Influence
boundaries.
Policy OS-8.1
Existing agricultural areas in the Planning Area shall be retained in
agricultural use until the time that such areas are needed for logical
urban expansion.
Policy OS-8.2
Encourage the use of landscaped open space as a buffer between
potentially non-compatible land uses.
Policy OS-8.3
Land designated Agricultural in the Planning Area may be converted to
urban uses if the following findings are made:
a. Conversion to urban use will not be detrimental to the long term
agricultural use of neighboring properties.
b. No other land within the Planning Area is readily available for urban
development of the quality and intensity proposed by a
development proposal.
c. The extension of major infrastructure through the land is necessary
for the efficient cost effective implementation of the City’s General
Plan.
d. That the proposal is consistent with Land Use policies regarding
conversion of Agricultural lands.
Policy OS-9.1
Identify land for the encouragement and retention of agricultural use
outside the City’s Sphere of Influence boundary based on the historic
use, soil suitability, agricultural significance and prevailing parcel
sizes of the land.
Policy OS-9.2
Establish an agriculture conservation program for the preservation of
valuable agricultural land outside the City’s Sphere of Influence from
urban development through the use of appropriate development
regulations and /or financial incentives.
Implementation Measure OS 9.2.A
The City shall explore the possibility of
establishing a fee program for all new
development in Chowchilla for the
conservation
and
preservation
of
agricultural land.
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City of Chowchilla
Implementation Measure OS 9.2.B
The City shall evaluate proactive programs
for
agricultural
conservation
and
preservation
such
as
transfer
of
development rights, purchase lease back,
public and / or private university purchase
for research, etc.
Policy OS-9.3
Coordinate programs to preserve agricultural lands with other public,
private and non-profit organizations where feasible.
Policy OS-13.1
To the extent feasible, maintain sloughs and water courses within the
Chowchilla Planning Area as components of a possible recreational
trail system. Public access within sensitive habitat areas of the
sloughs or waterways shall be considered individually to ensure
protection of the habitat resource.
Implementation Measure OS 13.1.A The City shall pursue the development of a
recreation trail system along Ash Slough
and Berenda Slough that connects the
urban area and Berenda Reservoir (See
City of Chowchilla Land Use Map located
in pocket at end of document).
Policy OS-13.3
Where appropriate and feasible, establish permanent mechanisms to
protect wetlands and riparian corridors.
Implementation Measure OS-13.3.A The City shall preserve natural water courses,
wetlands and riparian corridors through
requirements of land dedication and open
space improvement imposed during the land
development process.
Implementation Measure OS-13.3.B Establish programs in connection with
environmental review processes to protect
endangered wildlife and their habitats.
Programs established to protect wildlife and
their habitats may provide for the permanent
protection or relocation of wildlife habitat areas.
Policy OS-13.4
Avoid the potential adverse impacts of increased human activity on
sensitive habitat areas when establishing new recreational facilities
or programs.
Policy OS-13.6
The City of Chowchilla shall support the management of riparian
scrub and aquatic environments of Ash Slough, Berenda Slough
and of the Chowchilla River for passive recreation, groundwater
recharge, and wildlife habitat.
The riparian and aquatic
environments of Ash and Berenda Sloughs, and the Chowchilla
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City of Chowchilla
River shall be restored and expanded, where feasible and
appropriate.
Policy OS-13.7
New and redevelopment projects adjacent to Ash Slough or
Berenda Slough are to be carefully planned and, where possible,
designed to avoid existing riparian scrub vegetation and aquatic
wildlife habitat.
Policy OS-13.8
Lighting associated with new and redevelopment projects adjacent
to Ash Slough or Berenda Slough shall be designed to prevent
artificial lighting from illuminating adjacent natural areas at a level
greater than one candle foot above ambient conditions.
Policy OS-13.9
Prior to approval of a project (i.e., specific plan, master plan,
General Plan Amendment, pre- or re-zone, tentative map, etc.) the
City of Chowchilla shall require a biological study to be prepared by
a qualified biologist for the project site. Projects excluded from
preparing a biological study prior to approval are projects within the
Chowchilla City Limits that are more than 500 feet away from either
Ash or Berenda Sloughs.
Policy OS-13.10
On development sites with the potential to contain wetland
resources, a wetlands delineation shall be prepared by a qualified
biologist using the protocol defined by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. A report on the findings of the wetland delineation shall
be submitted to the City of Chowchilla as part of the project
application process.
Policy OS-13.11
The City of Chowchilla shall maintain a no net loss of wetlands on a
project-by-project basis. For the purpose of identifying wetlands,
the City will accept a map delineating wetlands which has been
accepted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers pursuant to Section
404 of the Clean Water Act of 1972. No net loss may include
mitigation implementation through participation in an off-site
mitigation bank or similar mitigation mechanism acceptable to the
City and permitting agencies.
Policy PF-7.1:
Natural and manmade channels, detention basins, and other
drainage facilities shall be maintained to ensure that their full use
and carrying capacity is not impaired.
Policy PF-7.2:
Continue to require new development to discharge storm water
runoff at volumes no greater than the capacity of any portion of the
existing downstream system by utilizing detention or retention or
other approved methods, unless the project is providing drainage
pursuant to an adopted drainage plan.
4.10-44
City of Chowchilla
Implementation Measure PF 7.2.A Consolidate
policies,
programs,
and
standards for flood control and storm
drainage in a Storm Drainage ordinance.
Policy PF-7.3:
When necessary, require new development to prepare hydrologic
studies to assess storm runoff effects on the local drainage system
and, if warranted, require new development to provide adequate
drainage facilities and to mitigate increases in storm water flows
and / or volume to avoid cumulative increases in downstream flows.
Implementation Measure PF 7.3.A Development projects requiring disposal of
stormwater into Ash Slough, Berenda
Slough, or Chowchilla River shall provide a
hydrological assessment of a project’s
potential effects on the local and regional
storm drainage systems, so that the City can
determine appropriate mitigation to ensure
that system capacity and peak flow
restrictions are not exceeded.
Policy PF-7.4:
New and redevelopment projects shall prepare and provide to the
City appropriate drainage studies that assess project storm runoff
affects on the City storm drain system, as well as provide
appropriate storm drainage facilities to ensure an increase risk of
on- or off-site flooding does not result from project implementation.
4.10.2.1.a(1) Mitigation Measures
Implementation of the policies and implementation measures listed above would ensure
that impacts to special-status species are identified and mitigated to ensure viability of
the species, and ensure that habitat areas are avoided or mitigated if avoidance is
determined to be infeasible. As such, this impact is considered less than significant.
4.10.2.2
General Plan Impacts to Species of Concern and Other Non-Listed
Special-status Species
Implementation of the proposed General Plan Update could result in direct and indirect
loss of habitat and individuals of animal and plant species of concern and other nonlisted special-status species. However, the proposed General Plan Update includes
policies and action items that would ensure that impacts to species of concern are
adequately mitigated. This impact will be less than significant.
Direct Impacts of the Proposed General Plan Update
Suitable habitat exists in the Planning Area for unlisted, but nonetheless, special-status
species. These species are designated as a species of concern by USFWS or CDFG
and/or listed in CNPS’s online inventory as List 2. Direct impacts to these species will
occur for the same reasons and in the same manner as direct impacts to listed species
4.10-45
City of Chowchilla
as identified and discussed in Impact 4.10.1 above. See Table 4.10 - 5, below, for
information on the acreage of suitable habitat that will be affected by implementation of
the proposed General Plan Update.
Table 4.10 - 5
Species of Concern and Non-Listed Special-status Species
Organized by Land Cover Types Within the Planning Area
Land Cover Type
Common Name
Impacted Acreage within
the Planning Area
Loggerhead shrike
California horned lark
Agricultural Lands
Burrowing owl
5,879
Migratory Non-game Birds of Management Concern
Special-status bat species
Golden Eagle(foraging)
Western spadefoot toad
Western pond turtle
Tri-colored blackbird (foraging)
Loggerhead shrike
Annual Grasslands
Burrowing owl
Sharp-shinned Hawk(foraging)
490
Ferruginous Hawk(foraging)
Coopers Hawk(foraging)
Merlin(foraging)
American badger
Special-status bat species
American badger
Loggerhead shrike
Ruderal
Burrowing owl
0
Western Mastiff Bat
Loggerhead shrike
Coopers Hawk
California horned lizard
Riverine/Riparian
Long-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl
140
Western pond turtle
Northern Harrier
Western Mastiff Bat
Migratory Non-game Birds
California linderiella
Molestan blister beetle
Wetlands/Open Water
Western spadefoot toad
Western pond turtle
179
Migratory Non-game Birds
Tri-colored blackbird
TOTAL
6,688
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City of Chowchilla
A detailed description of species habitat and foraging locations and possibility of each
can be found in Table 4.10 - 3 and Table 4.10 - 4.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Special-status Plant Species
Direct impacts to non-listed special-status plant species will occur for the same reasons
and in the same manner as they will for listed special-status plant species. See Impact
4.10.1 for a discussion of impacts to special-status plant species.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Western Spadefoot Toad
Western spadefoot toad, a California species of special concern, is found in seasonally
ponded water and associated upland habitat. The direct removal or degradation of 490
acres of annual grassland habitat may result in direct take of the species. If species is
present during construction activities, adverse effects from construction activities could
result in the mortality or injury to western spadefoot toad.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Western Pond Turtle
Suitable habitat for western pond turtle, a California species of special concern, occurs
in the Planning Area, specifically around the Berenda Reservoir. The Ash and Berenda
Slough corridors do not provide sufficient habitat due to limited duration of flows. It is
the goal of CDFG to maintain viable populations of this species as declining population
levels, limited ranges, and/or continuing threats have made them increasingly
vulnerable to regional extirpation. The western pond turtle requires the protection of
suitable nesting sites and the reduction of mortality in the younger age groups to
maintain viable populations. It is possible that habitat for the Western Pond Turtle can
be found around Berenda Reservoir. If construction activities occur in aquatic habitat
(e.g., wetland, riparian, pond) or upland habitat (e.g., surrounding annual grassland or
woodlands), direct effects could occur if individual western pond turtles were present.
Adverse effects from construction activities could result in killing or injuring western
pond turtles or the disturbance/destruction of habitat.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Tri-colored Blackbird
Tri-colored blackbirds nest in dense vegetation such as tules, cattails, or blackberries,
similar to the upland and Berenda Reservoir areas of the Genera Plan Area. Removal
of vegetation during nesting activities could result in direct mortality of this species. In
addition, noise, vibration, and other construction activities could disrupt nesting and
foraging activities, which may inadvertently cause nest failure.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Burrowing Owl
During construction activities, subsequent projects under the General Plan Update have
the potential to cause direct mortality of or harm to burrowing owl (a California species
of special concern) if this species is present during grading or earthmoving work. The
Planning Area contains numerous sites where there are small mammal burrows that this
species may inhabit. Burrowing owl habitat is present within the ruderal habitat (vacant
4.10-47
City of Chowchilla
lands) and annual grasslands within the Planning Area. Burrowing owls frequently
occur in areas used by ground squirrels and will excavate old burrows to use as their
own. Construction of the subsequent projects under the General Plan Update may
interfere with nesting activities, if nests are present within 150 meters (500 feet) of
construction activities. There is potential that project construction could inadvertently
compact occupied burrows. These actions could result in direct loss (or take) of a
burrowing owl if construction activities disrupt the breeding of this special-status species
or destroy a burrow that is actively being used by a burrowing owl.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Migratory Birds and Raptors
Implementation of the General Plan Update will result in disturbance, degradation, and
removal of large trees for nesting and foraging habitat. Large trees provide nesting
habitat for migratory birds and raptors including great egret, great blue heron, killdeer,
red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, and American kestrel. The General Plan Update
will result in potential development of approximately 6,688 acres of open space. Many
raptors or birds of prey prefer low-growing cropland such as alfalfa fields and grassland
for foraging. Increased conversion of farmland into residential and commercial
development will significantly reduce the foraging habitat for these raptor species. In
addition, development of the Planning Area will reduce the number of trees available as
suitable nesting sites. These actions could result in direct loss (or take) of protected
migratory birds and raptors through direct removal of an active nest or habitat
degradation.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to Special-status Bats
The western mastiff bat and other special-status bat species have the potential to occur
within the Planning Area. Habitat for these species vary and include snags, the loose
bark of a tree, other vegetation, rock overhangs, manmade structures, caves, and
culverts. Construction activities can result in direct mortality of individuals or the entire
roosting colony. Disturbance of significant roost sites can result in a significant impact
on regional populations.
Discussion of Direct Impacts to American Badger
Direct mortality of an American badger may occur if this species is present during
construction activities. This species retreats to underground dens if threatened. There
is the potential that the badger could be affected during construction due to compaction
or earthmoving activities. Additionally, if construction activities occur during the
breeding season, badger pups in maternal dens could also be impacted by compaction
or earthmoving activities. If a badger den is located within or adjacent to construction
activities, there is potential that direct take of the species could occur.
Indirect Impacts of the General Plan Update
Indirect impacts to these species will occur for similar reasons as those identified in
Impact 4.10.2.1. Indirect impacts to habitat for non-listed, special-status species will
most likely be less than the total impact identified above. The mitigating effect of many
4.10-48
City of Chowchilla
of the policies and action items in the proposed General Plan Update, addressing
protection of biological resources, will ultimately reduce actual impacts. In estimating
the amount of acreage potentially impacted, this discussion considers the worst-case
outcome of implementation of the proposed General Plan Update to ensure that
potential environmental impacts are fully considered. In addition, some future
development design proposals will be subject to additional environmental review,
depending on whether all of the impacts of such proposals have been adequately
considered in this DEIR. This environmental review may further reduce the indirect
impacts of the proposed General Plan Update on non-listed special-status species.
Therefore, the total acreage of indirect impacts likely will be less. As the final design of
development and roadways to be constructed under the General Plan Update cannot be
known, the actual quantity of habitat impacted may vary greatly.
Discussion of Indirect Impacts to Special-status Plant Species
See discussion of impacts to special-status plant species above.
Discussion of Indirect Impacts to Special-status Wildlife Species
In addition to the indirect impacts to special-status wildlife species discussed above,
additional indirect impacts may occur to western pond turtle and special-status bat
species with the implementation of the General Plan Update. Indirect effects to western
pond turtle habitat downstream of subsequent projects under the General Plan Update
could occur if water quality were degraded by sediment transported downstream.
Sediment derived from construction activities or erosion could also eliminate food
sources in the waterways within the Planning Area; however, existing programs and
standards as well as proposed General Plan Update policy provisions outlined above
relating to hydrology and water quality, will ensure that water quality will not be
significantly degraded by the project. For special-status bat species, construction
activities near or adjacent to a roosting site may indirectly impact the species.
Disturbance may include removal of vegetation surrounding or immediately adjacent to
a cave or tunnel entrance, changes to airflow within the cave, or alteration of water
flows and ground hydrology in the surrounding area. Changes in their habitat, including
increase in noise and vibrations, can severely affect the survivorship of the young if
construction occurs adjacent to maternity colonies during spring and summer breeding
and the subsequent raising of young.
4.10.2.2.a
Proposed General Plan Policies and Implementation Measures that
Provide Mitigation
The proposed General Plan Update contains policies and implementation measures
that would assist in reducing this impact. Those policies listed in Section 4.10.2.1.a
above contain specific, enforceable requirements and/or restrictions and corresponding
performance standards that address this impact. Implementation of the policies would
ensure that impacts to special-status species are identified and mitigated to ensure
viability of the species, and ensure that habitat areas are avoided or mitigated if
4.10-49
City of Chowchilla
avoidance is determined to be infeasible.
significant.
This impact is considered less than
None beyond Implementation of the policies and implementation measures listed
Section 4.10.2.1.a above.
4.10.2.3
General Plan Impacts to Sensitive Habitats
Implementation of the proposed General Plan Update will result in disturbance,
degradation, and removal of sensitive habitats/biological communities.
Implementation of the proposed 2040 General Plan Update could result in disturbance,
degradation, and removal of up to 490 acres of annual grassland habitat which
generally has a high potential to support vernal pools, a CDFG sensitive habitat. Vernal
pools require the surrounding upland habitat to maintain their habitat value and function.
Approximately 179 acres of wetland and open water habitat would also be in direct
conflict with the proposed land use designation (e.g., industrial, residential, and other
built environment) (see Table 4.10 - 5). To additionally provide buffering of the wetlands
an open space corridor will implemented along Berenda and Ash Sloughs and their
banks, as well as Berenda Reservoir and its banks. This corridor will serve as a buffer
between urban uses and the natural habitat of the Berenda Reservoir and Berenda and
Ash Sloughs. As Figure 4.10 - 7 and Figure 4.10 - 8 depict wetland and vernal pool
habitats do not readily exist within the Planning Area. Vernal Pool habitats do exist
within the Sphere of Influence and the Secondary Planning Area, except for the
northeast corner of the sphere, which is planned to remain as Urban Reserve
Agricultural land. Other areas designated as vernal pool sites are either in areas that
are continually disturbed by discing during weed abatement processes or are on
industrial or agricultural land and are created by on-site drainage or irrigation run-off.
Implementation of the General Plan Update could also result in disturbance of riparian
habitat (potentially up to 140 acres), and will result in the conversion of farmland
(approximately 6,688 acres) that provides habitat to listed species such as the
Swainson’s hawk. This is considered a significant impact.
4.10.2.3.a
Provide Mitigation
that will assist in reducing this impact. Those policies listed in Section 4.10.2.1.a above
contain specific, enforceable requirements and/or restrictions and corresponding
performance standards that address this impact. However, implementation of the
proposed General Plan Update could still result in the loss of substantial sensitive
habitat areas and farmland utilized by state and federally listed species. Given the
extent of this potential conversion (approximately 6,688 acres of habitat), this impact is
considered significant and unavoidable. No feasible mitigation is available to offset
the extent of this impact of the proposed General Plan Update.
4.10-50
City of Chowchilla
Implementation of the above-referenced General Plan Update policies will limit sensitive
habitat impacts. However, implementation of the proposed General Plan Update could
still result in the loss of substantial sensitive habitat areas and farmland utilized by state
and federally listed species.
Given the extent of this potential conversion
(approximately 6,688 acres of habitat), this impact is considered significant and
unavoidable. No feasible mitigation is available to offset the extent of this impact of the
proposed General Plan Update.
While the proposed General Plan Update policy provisions assist in minimizing
conversion of agricultural lands to urban by establishing a greenbelt to contain urban
growth and buffer agricultural uses from urban land uses, the General Plan Update will
still result in the loss of substantial sensitive habitat areas and farmland utilized by state
and federally listed species. There are no feasible mitigation measures available to
offset this loss of farmland, as important farmland cannot be easily created to offset the
conversion of such land expected. Thus, this impact is considered significant and
unavoidable.
4.10.2.4
General Plan Impacts to Migratory Corridors
Implementation of the proposed 2040 General Plan Update could interfere substantially
with the movement of native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species. However, the
proposed General Plan Update includes policies that will ensure that impacts to specialstatus species are adequately mitigated.
Although this portion of the San Joaquin Valley is a part of the Pacific Flyway,
implementation of the General Plan Update will not result in the obstruction of the
movement of migratory birds. Migratory birds may, however, use the wetlands,
waterways, agricultural lands, detention ponds, irrigation ditches, and wastewater
treatment ponds during migration. The major area with remaining natural lands includes
the riparian corridors which provide adequate cover and vegetation to be used as a
migratory corridor for common and special-status wildlife species. Corridors provided
by streams and drainages within the Planning Area provide important routes for species
moving through the area as well as local species that use these corridors to spread to
new habitat, to mate, and to disperse genetic material. Large riparian areas such as
the Ash Slough and Berenda Slough provide movement corridors as well. In addition to
ephemeral drainages, streams, and rivers, large areas of undeveloped land
(agricultural) such as those found in the western and eastern portions of the Planning
Area provide habitat and cover for other species moving through the area and between
habitats within the Planning Area. Implementation of the proposed General Plan
Update could result in disturbance, degradation, and removal of riparian corridors, an
important corridor for the movement of common and special-status species. In addition
open space, including agricultural lands and annual grasslands, provide an opportunity
for dispersal and migration of wildlife species.
4.10-51
City of Chowchilla
Large-scale development of the Planning Area (approximately 10,109 acres of land)
identified in the General Plan Update could isolate these areas and impact movement
corridors. Additionally, construction of roadways and improvement of existing roadways
could serve to sever and/or further sever connections between habitats and cover types
in the Planning Area. This impact will be less than significant.
4.10.2.4.a
Provide Mitigation
that will assist in reducing this impact as discussed above in Section 4.10.2.1.a. Those
policies and implementation measures contain specific, enforceable requirements
and/or restrictions and corresponding performance standards that address this impact.
Implementation of the policies and action items referenced above will ensure that
impacts to special-status species are mitigated to ensure viability of the species (which
will include consideration of movement needs) and ensure that habitat areas are
avoided or mitigated if avoidance is determined to be infeasible.
None beyond Implementation of the policies and implementation measures listed
Section 4.10.2.1.a above.
4.10.2.5
General Plan Conflict with Adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or Any Adopted Biological Resources
Recovery or Conservation Plan of Any Federal or State Agency
Implementation of the 2040 General Plan Update will not conflict with the provisions of
an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or any
adopted biological resources recovery or conservation plan of any federal or state
agency. There will be no impact.
The project will not conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,
Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state
habitat conservation plan. Although the City of Chowchilla is within the boundaries of
the Recovery Plan for Upland Species of the San Joaquin Valley (USFWS 1998), the
General Plan Update does not conflict with the Recovery Plan. A discussion of potential
impacts to sensitive habitats within the Planning Area can be found in the Recovery
Plan for Upland Species of the San Joaquin Valley, California, and the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service Draft Vernal Pool Recovery Plan. No further analysis of the issue is
required.
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City of Chowchilla
4.10.2.6
4.10.2.6.a
Rancho Calera
Rancho Calera Specific Plan Impact to Candidate, Sensitive or
Special Statue Species
The proposed Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not have an adverse effect,
either directly or indirectly, through habitat modifications on any species identified as a
candidate, sensitive or special statue species in local, regional, State or Federal plans,
policies or regulation. Live Oak Associates, Inc., in their preparation of the Biological
Study for this EIR, completed a focused study on the Rancho Calera Specific Plan Area.
Their study states that there is not sufficient habitat to support any species identified as
candidate, sensitive or special statue species based on site observation and past and
current agricultural and weed abatement process.
Figure 4.10 - 10 shows the location of the Rancho Calera project. A portion of the 576
acre project (440 acres) is located within the existing Chowchilla City Limits
(northeasterly portion of the City.) The remaining 136 acres are located to the west of
the existing City Limits, between SR 99 and the City Limits. Approximately 145 acres
are proposed to be annexed to the City (136 acres of which are in the Rancho Calera
Specific Plan project). Ash Slough forms the northern boundary of the Rancho Calera
project. The project area is currently vacant fallow farmland, except for a 20 acre
remnant vineyard and an elementary school which was constructed and then opened in
2008 on land located within the City Limits, (approximately in the center of the project
area; see Figure 4.10 - 11).
Figure 4.10 - 10
Rancho Calera Project Location
4.10-53
City of Chowchilla
Figure 4.10 - 11
Rancho Calera Specific Plan Land Use
Site observation, as well as records searches, performed by Live Oak Associates, Inc.,
show that the site lacks suitable habitat for candidate and sensitive species; this
information can be seen in Figure 4.10 - 3, Figure 4.10 - 4, Figure 4.10 - 7 and Figure
4.10 - 8 in this section for this EIR.
The project area is annually disced as for weed abatement. In the past, the project area
was planted in vineyard and field crops. Both past and present activities have created
an environment that is not a hospitable habitat for feral terrestrial or avian animals. As
shown in the above listed figures, observed and recorded data of candidate and special
status species shows that the likelihood is low. Figure 4.10 - 8 shows recorded vernal
pool locations. Although the map shows that there are two vernal pool locations at the
southern boundary of the project area, they are listed as having “no information”
available by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These vernal pools correspond with
drainage ditches contiguous to Avenue 26/East Robertson Boulevard, that are
occasionally covered up during discing activities but fill with water during heavy rain
events. Vernal pool habitats were not observed during Live Oak Associates, Inc. site
reconnaissance.
The possibility of Burrowing Owls is likely because the site is mostly fallow land.
Typically for fallow land which may have squirrel burrows, the City routinely requires
pre-construction surveys for Burrowing Owls. This standard mitigation measure also
applies to this proposed project.
Because Rancho Calera has prepared a detailed Specific Plan that includes design
standards to minimize conflicts with biological resources and a preponderance of the
site has long been fallow and the remnant 20 acre vineyard will be terminated early in
4.10-54
City of Chowchilla
project development and annexation of 145 acres will eliminate a County island in
City most of which is fallow; and the location is adjacent to a developing area of
existing City, the project considered to have a less than significant impact on
biological resources when the Specific Plan standards and General Plan policies
implemented in addition to the below specific mitigation measure.
the
the
the
are
None required beyond the Chowchilla 2040 General Plan Policies and implementation
of the Specific Plan design standards and the following specific Mitigation Measure.
4.10.2.6.a.(1) i
The owner, developer and/or successor’s in interest shall be
required to retain a qualified biologist who shall conduct a
pre-construction survey for Burrowing Owls within 30 days
of the on-set of project construction for any phase of
development. This survey shall be conducted according to
methods described in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl
Mitigation (CDFG 1995).
If pre-construction surveys undertaken during the breeding
season (February through July) locate active nest burrows
within or near construction zones, establish an appropriate
construction free setback around these nests until the
conclusion of the breeding season. The distance of the
setback should be determined by a qualified ornithologist in
consultation with the CDFG. At the conclusion of the nesting
season these owls may be relocated.
If pre-construction surveys undertaken during the nonbreeding season (August through January) locate resident
owls, these individuals may be relocated to alternative
habitat. The relocation of resident owls shall be conducted
according to a relocation plan prepared by a qualified
biologist in consultation with the California Department of
Fish and Game. Passive relocation as described in Draft
Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation shall be the preferred
method of relocation. The plan shall provide for the owl’s
relocation to nearby lands possessing available nesting
habitat
Level of Significance After Mitigation
Less than Significant.
Mitigation Implementation and Monitoring Responsibility
Implementation: The City of Chowchilla Community Development Department through
the Annexation, Subdivision Map, and project review processes shall be responsible for
4.10-55
City of Chowchilla
recommending findings of consistency with the General Plan and the Rancho Calera
Specific Plan. The Chowchilla Planning Commission and City Council are responsible
for adopting such findings of consistency prior to project approval.
Monitoring: The various implementing departments of the City of Chowchilla are
responsible for administering the City's Site Plan Review and Subdivision Ordinance
processes. An application for a Certificate of Occupancy is required prior to completing
a project. The conditions of approval are checked prior to issuing a Certificate of
Occupancy.
The City of Chowchilla Community Development Department is
responsible for reporting progress on implementing mitigation measures in an annual
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting report provided to the City Council.
4.10.2.6.b
Rancho Calera Impact to Riparian Habitat or Other Sensitive Natural
Community
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project is located south of Ash Slough; the projects
northern boundary is contiguous with the Ash slough corridor. The City of Chowchilla
General Plan specifies that Ash Slough is to be designated as an irrigated open space
corridor and that no development will occur within its boundaries. This buffer is
between 100 and 500 feet from the toe of the nearest bank of Ash Slough depending on
location. The proposed project has designed into its master plan open space/parkland
buffers to separate residential development from the southern boundary of the Ash
Slough open space corridor boundary.
Figure 4.10 - 10 and Figure 4.10 - 11 depict the location of Ash Slough to the proposed
project and the location of the open space/parkland buffer areas.
Approximately 3,000 acre feet per year of water have been redirected from the
Chowchilla Water District irrigation system to the slough in order to recharge the water
table in the slough area. Also a portion of the internal stormwater infrastructure will be
redistributed into the Ash Slough area. A series of landscaped drainage basins located
in the linear park/open space buffer between urban uses and Ash Slough will collect a
portion stormwater from within the Specific Plan area. The remainder of stormwater will
be diverted via existing infrastructure in East Robertson Boulevard to an existing basin
south of the proposed project (basin located in the existing Greenhills subdivision).
Both mixed-use and commercial zones will retain all stormwater on-site. The existing
school site will retain 75% of its stormwater on-site, with the remaining 25% will be
diverted to the Ash Slough linear park/Open space buffer area. The internal stormwater
system will collect sediments through natural filtration devices and debris collectors.
This will be done by routing stormwater drainage through wetland pretreatment areas to
aid filtration before recharge into Ash Slough.
Rancho Calera has prepared a detailed Specific Plan that includes design standards to
minimize wetlands and Ash Slough. A preponderance of the site has long been
disturbed by intensive agriculture and is now fallow and annually disced except for a
remnant 20 acre vineyard remaining that will be terminated early in project
development. Annexation of 145 acres will eliminate a County island in the City most of
which is fallow; and the location is adjacent to a developing area of the existing City.
4.10-56
City of Chowchilla
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not have a substantial adverse effect on
any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional
plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US
Fish and Wild Life Service. There will be a less than significant impact.
4.10.2.6.b(1) Mitigation Measures
of the Specific Plan design standards.
Occupancy.
4.10.2.6.c
Rancho Calera Effect on Federally Protected Wetlands as Defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
According to Figure 4.10 - 7 and Figure 4.10 - 8, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services
does not list any federally protected wetlands (as defined in Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act. Ash Slough is located adjacent to the northern project area boundary. Ash
Slough is designated as an open space corridor in the Chowchilla 2040 General Plan
and in the Rancho Calera Specific Plan. This corridor has been designed to protect the
slough from urban encroachment that may effect wetlands. Open space buffers and
storm drainage systems have been designed into the Rancho Calera Specific Plan to
further mitigate impacts to Ash Slough. Rancho Calera has participated with the
Chowchilla Water District to increase the amount of area of Ash Slough that contains
water during the irrigation season and added 3,000 acre feet of ground water recharge
to the stream course.
As shown in Figure 4.10 - 7, two wetland areas have been defined by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. These areas are defined as having no information recorded by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Based on site evaluations by Live Oak Associates, Inc.
4.10-57
City of Chowchilla
and records by the property owners, the project area consists of highly disturbed
agricultural land. This project area consists of fallow land except for an elementary
school that was constructed and began operation in 2008 and a 20 acre remnant
vineyard. The project area, except for the elementary school site, is annually disced as
part of the owner’s weed abatement program. The two possible wetland areas are
located along East Robertson Boulevard. These wetlands correspond with drainage
ditches contiguous to East Robertson Boulevard, which are occasionally covered up
during discing activities, but fill with storm water during heavy rain events. Vernal pool
habitats were not observed during Live Oak Associates, Inc. site reconnaissance.
These shallow ground depressions are created when discing by the tilling discs and/or
tractor wheels or other grading activities on and off the property along East Robertson
Blvd. Currently, there are no culverts located along East Robertson Blvd. within the
Rancho Calera Project Area.
Approximately 3,000 acre feet of water will be redirected per year from the Chowchilla
Water District irrigation system to the slough in order to recharge the water table in the
Ash Slough area. Also a portion of the internal stormwater infrastructure will be
collected in the open/space buffer area separating the project from Ash Slough. A
series of shallow landscaped drainage swales located in the linear open space buffer
between urban uses and Ash Slough will collect a portion stormwater from within the
Specific Plan area. The remainder of stormwater will be diverted via existing
infrastructure in East Robertson Boulevard to an existing basin south of the proposed
project (basin located in the existing Greenhills subdivision). Both mixed-use and
commercial zones will retain all stormwater on-site. The existing school site will retain
75% of its stormwater on-site; with the remaining 25% will be diverted to the Ash Slough
linear park/Open space buffer area. The internal stormwater system will collect
sediments through natural filtration devices and debris collectors. This will be done by
routing stormwater drainage through wetland pretreatment areas to aid filtration before
recharge.
Rancho Calera has prepared a detailed Specific Plan that includes design standards to
minimize wetlands and Ash Slough. A preponderance of the site has long been
disturbed by intensive agriculture and is now fallow and annually disced except for a
remnant 20 acre vineyard remaining that will be terminated early in project
development. Annexation of 145 acres will eliminate a County island in the City most of
which is fallow; and the location is adjacent to a developing area of the existing City.
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not have a substantial adverse effect on
federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including, but not limited to, marsh vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption, or other means. There will be a less than significant
impact.
4.10.2.6.c(1) Mitigation Measures
4.10-58
City of Chowchilla
Occupancy.
4.10.2.6.d
Impede movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife
species, or established native resident, or migratory wildlife
corridors or the use of native wildlife nursery sites
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not Interfere substantially with the
movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established
native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife
nursery sites.
The proposed project will not substantially affect the movements of resident or migratory
species. According to the Biological Study drafted by Live Oak Associates, Inc., the
likelihood of migratory or native resident fish and wildlife species traversing the project
area as part of their migratory patterns is relatively low and there are no wildlife nursery
sites located within the site or near vicinity of Chowchilla. The site, although located
adjacent to Ash Slough, it has been highly disturbed in the past by agricultural practices
and in the present by construction and weed abatement practices on and around the
project area. It is located on the eastern edge of existing development. A majority of
the project area is within the Chowchilla City limits, and the existing Greenhills
subdivision and Shopping Center is located south of the project area, across East
Robertson Boulevard.
An elementary school was constructed on the site,
approximately 1,500 feet south of Ash Slough, in 2008. The amount of traffic traveling
East Robertson Boulevard to the commercial services and residential subdivision south
of the project area, as well as traffic entering the project area in route to the elementary
school lessen the possibility of species migrating through the project area.
Because of its close proximity to existing development, according to Live Oak
Associates, Inc., there is not a high concentration of fish or wildlife species living within
the Ash Slough open space corridor; please see Figure 4.10 - 3 for location of species
4.10-59
City of Chowchilla
within the Chowchilla 2040 Planning Area and the Rancho Calera Specific Plan area.
Although this is the case, various species could still, from time to time, use the slough
and project area during their migration. To mitigate this, an open space/parkland buffer
has been designed into the proposed project in order to allow any species that may
happen to be migrating thorough the slough as safe corridor to move.
With the mitigation measures included in the General Plan and the design of the
Rancho Calera Specific Plan there will be a less than significant impact to the
migratory patterns of resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or established native
resident, or migratory wildlife corridors or the use of wildlife nursery sites.
4.10.2.6.d(1) Mitigation Measures
Occupancy.
4.10.2.6.e
Rancho Calera Impact on Policies or Ordinances Protecting
Biological Resources
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance.
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan area is mostly devoid of trees except for small
groupings located adjacent to two structures on the western end of the site. The City of
Chowchilla does not implement any policies or ordinances, other than what can be
found in the 2040 General plan that protects biological resources. The only ordinance
the City does have relates to the historic palm trees planted along West Robertson
4.10-60
City of Chowchilla
Boulevard/SR 233 and a residential tree planting standard. The Rancho Calera Specific
Plan is not within the Robertson Boulevard Palm Tree Preservation area.
An open space/parkland buffer has been designed into the Rancho Calera project to
buffer and transition the riparian scrubland located within Ash Slough to the proposed
urban uses found within the Specific Plan. The buffer area will insure that the scrubland
found within the Ash Slough is preserved.
The Chowchilla 2040 General Plan promotes the preservation of mature shade trees
(Policy OS 13.5). It is City’s practice to require that mature trees, as long as they do not
conflict with approved lotting configurations and/or street right-of-ways, be preserved.
The preservation of the existing mature trees will be addressed during the Tentative
Subdivision Map process or in the case of commercial in the Site Plan Review process.
By use of applicable policies found within the Chowchilla 2040 General Plan and City
approval processes, the Rancho Calera Specific Plan will have no impact to conflict
with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance.
4.10.2.6.f
Rancho Calera Impact on a Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or
state habitat conservation plan
The Rancho Calera Specific Plan project will not conflict with the provisions of an
adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community conservation Plan, or other
approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. There will be no impact.
According to City’s General Plan, there is not an adopted Habitat, Natural Community
Conservation Plan or any other approve local, regional or state habitat conservation
plan for the adjacent Ash Slough or the Rancho Calera Specific Plan area. The
Chowchilla 2040 General Plan does contain policies within its Open Space and
Conservation Element that protects the adjacent Ash Slough corridor. The Rancho
Calera Specific Plan has designed open space buffer that further protects the Ash
Slough with an open space corridor from proposed urban impacts.
4.10-61
City of Chowchilla
REFERENCES
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2000. Guidelines for Assessing the
Effects of Proposed Projects on Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Plants and
Natural Communities. California Department of Fish and Game, Rancho
Cordova, California.
City of Chowchilla 2040 Draft General Plan, 2010.
Live Oak Associates, Inc. 2005. Chowchilla General Plan Biotic Section of EIR with
Three Focus and Four Special Areas of Interest.
Rancho Calera Master Plan. 2009.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. 2010. Web Mapper Services
4.10-62
City of Chowchilla

4.10 - City of Chowchilla

Transcription

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