BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

PANORAMA PARK AND FIELD HOUSE PROJECT

REDDING, CALIFORNIA

Prepared for City of Redding

Prepared by

VESTRA Resources Inc. 5300 Aviation Drive

Redding, California 96002

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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

PANORAMA PARK AND FIELD HOUSE PROJECT

REDDING, CALIFORNIA

Prepared for City of Redding

Prepared by VESTRA Resources Inc.

5300 Aviation Drive Redding, California 96002

72051

UPDATED APRIL 2021

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

This Biological Resources Assessment report describes the biological resources present in the proposed area of Panorama Park in Redding, Shasta County, California. This report includes a project description incorporating proposed conservation measures, study methods, regulatory framework, description of the affected environment, and description of impacts on sensitive resources.

1.1 Project Description

The proposed project includes the development of a new neighborhood park called Panorama Park on a 10.5-acre site. The proposed site plan is included as Appendix A. The proposed work includes construction of a 20,000-square-foot gym and classroom building, called the Field House, as well as several park amenities including recreation trails, playground(s), parking areas, and landscaped areas. This assessment also considers tentatively proposed amenities including a dog park, turf sports field(s), athletic court(s), picnic areas, barbeque facilities, and other miscellaneous recreational amenities.

Project construction would require vegetation removal, ground disturbance, utilities installation, construction, and road work to enhance the existing roads onsite. Following development, trees would be planted throughout the proposed park, including in the landscaped areas and along pedestrian pathways. The park amenities would be accessible to the public on a daily ongoing basis.

1.2 Site Description

The site is located in North Redding, Shasta County, California on Assessor’s Parcel Numbers (APNs) 113-120-012 and 113-120-011. The center of the project site is at coordinates (40.619268, -122.399463). The site can be accessed from Panorama Drive on the west side and Tamarack Drive on the east side. The general site location is shown on Figure 1.

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Project Area

0 0.5 1 2^Miles

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FIGURE 1

GENERAL SITE LOCATION PANORAMA PARK REDDING, CALIFORNIA

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Project Area Annual Grassland Barren

Blue Oak Woodland Blue Oak-Foothill Pine Lacustrine

Mixed Chaparral Urban

Valley Oak Woodland

FIGURE 2

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2.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

2.1 General Setting

The topography of the study area is generally flat and occurs at elevations between approximately 734 and 744 feet above sea level. Precipitation primarily occurs as rain and annual rainfall is approximately 34 inches (Western Regional Climate Center 2006). Air temperatures range between an average January high of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (ºF) and an average July high of 98ºF. The year-round average high is approximately 75ºF (Western Regional Climate Center 2006).

2.2 Soils

Soils within the project area were determined through consultation with the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web Soil Survey. Soils within the project area are Redding gravelly loam, 0 to 5 percent slopes, moist. The typical profile of this soil series has a depth to restrictive feature of more than eighty inches, with a duripan present in between ten and thirty inches depth. The soil resource report is included as Appendix B.

2.3 Vegetation Communities

Vegetation communities in the study area were classified based on descriptions provided in A Guide to Wildlife Habitats of California (CDFW 2014). Two habitat types are identified onsite: Urban and Blue Oak Woodland (Figure 2). These habitat types are described below. A photo of the habitat onsite is shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. Mature Blue Oak Woodland in Urban Habitat (photograph taken December 2020)

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2.3.1 Urban

The structure of urban vegetation varies, with five types of vegetative structure defined: tree grove, street strip, shade tree/lawn, lawn, and shrub cover. Tree groves, common in city parks, green belts, and cemeteries, vary in height, tree spacing, crown shape, and understory conditions, depending upon the species planted and the planting design. However, they have a continuous canopy. The urban habitat observed within the project area is characterized as a “tree grove” with a community similar to that of a Blue Oak Woodland (BOW); therefore, the BOW habitat type is described below.

Evidence of previous urban development was observed within the project area. Two well- established dirt roads run across the site; analysis of aerial imagery reveals that these roads have existed since prior to 1993. Vehicles tracks have historically disturbed ground throughout the remainder of the site and have naturally revegetated over time.

The adjacent areas to the project site consist of residential developments to the south and east of the site, commercial development to the north of the side (across Lake Boulevard), and a school to the west of the site (across Tamarack Drive). These developed areas are characterized as

“street strip” Urban habitat. 2.3.2 Blue Oak Woodland

This habitat observed onsite is a homogenous Blue Oak Woodland canopy. Dominant species observed were blue oak (Quercus douglassii), foothill pine (Pinus sabiniana), manzanita (Arctostaphylos sp.), and poison oak (Toxicodendron diversoilobum). Introduced annual grasses and forbs are dominant in the understory plant community. The dominant understory species observed were wild oats (Avena fatua), rattlesnake grass (Briza minor), and medusahead (Elymus caput medusae). Annual forb identification was difficult due to the time of year when the survey was completed. 2.4 Special-Status Species

2.4.1 Special-Status Plants

Special-status plant species include plants that are (1) designated as rare by CDFW or USFWS or are listed as threatened or endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) or ESA; (2) proposed for designation as rare or listing as threatened or endangered; (3) designated as state or federal candidate species for listing as threatened or endangered; and/or (4) ranked as California Rare Plant Rank (RPR) 1A, 1B, 2A, or 2B. A list of regionally occurring special-status plant species was compiled based on a review of pertinent literature, the results of the field surveys, and a review of the USFWS species list and CNDDB and a nine-quad search (Whiskeytown, Shasta Dam, Project City, Igo, Redding, Enterprise, Ono, Olinda, Cottonwood) of CNPS database records. CRPR query results are included as Appendix C.

For each special-status plant species, habitat and other ecological requirements were evaluated and compared to the habitats in the study area and immediate vicinity to assess the presence of potential habitat. The habitat assessment is provided in Table 1 (see Section 5.0).

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2.4.2 Special-Status Animals

Special-status animal species include species that are (1) listed as threatened or endangered under the CESA or the ESA; (2) proposed for federal listing as threatened or endangered; (3) identified as state or federal candidates for listing as threatened or endangered; and/or (4) identified by the CDFW as Species of Special Concern or California Fully Protected Species.

A list of regionally occurring special-status wildlife species was compiled based on a review of pertinent literature and consultations with the USFWS Information for Planning and Consultation (iPAC) database and California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) database records, and a query of the California Wildlife Habitats Relationship (CWHR) system.

For each special-status wildlife species, habitat and other ecological requirements were evaluated and compared to the habitats in the study area and immediate vicinity to assess the presence of potential habitat. The habitat assessment is provided in Table 1 (see Section 5.0).

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3.0 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

This section describes the federal and state regulation of special-status species, waters of the United States, and other sensitive biological resources.

3.1 Federal Regulations

3.1.1 Federal Endangered Species Act

Section 9 of the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) prohibits acts that result in the

“take” of threatened or endangered species. As defined by the federal ESA, “endangered” refers to any species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its current range. The term “threatened” is applied to any species likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its current range. “Take” is defined as “harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct.” Sections 7 and 10 of the federal ESA provide methods for permitting otherwise lawful actions that may result in “incidental take” of a federally listed species. Incidental take refers to take of a listed species that is incidental to, but not the primary purpose of, an otherwise lawful activity. Incidental take is permitted under Section 7 for projects on federal land or involving a federal action; Section 10 provides a process for non-federal actions. The act is administered by the USFWS for terrestrial species.

3.1.2 Clean Water Act

The objective of the Clean Water Act (1977, as amended) is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters. Discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including jurisdictional wetlands, is regulated by the Corps under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1251-1376) under a permitting process. Applicants for Section 404 permits are also required to obtain water quality certification or waiver through the local Regional Water Quality Control Board under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1341).

Corps regulations implementing Section 404 define waters of the United States to include intrastate waters, including lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, and natural ponds, the use, degradation, or destruction of which could affect interstate or foreign commerce. Wetlands are defined for regulatory purposes as “areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions” (33 CFR 328.3; 40 CFR 230.3). To comply with the Corps policy of no net loss of wetlands, discharge into wetlands must be avoided and minimized to the extent practicable. For unavoidable impacts, compensatory mitigation is typically required to replace the loss of wetland functions in the watershed.

3.1.3 Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Migratory birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (16 USC

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products, except as allowed by implementing regulations (50 CFR 21). Mitigation measures can be identified to avoid or minimize adverse effects on migratory birds.

3.2 State Regulatory Requirements 3.2.1 California Endangered Species Act

The California Endangered Species Act lists species of plants and animals as threatened or endangered. Projects that may have adverse effects on state-listed species require formal consultation with CDFW. “Take” of protected species incidental to otherwise lawful activities may be authorized under Section 2081 of the California Fish and Game Code. Authorization from the CDFW is in the form of an Incidental Take Permit, and measures can be identified to minimize take. CDFW Species of Special Concern are considered under the California Endangered Species Act.

3.2.2 Birds of Prey

Under Section 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code, 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.

3.2.3 Migratory Birds

The California Fish and Game Code Section 3513 states that it is unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird as designated in the MBTA or any part of such migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the MBTA.

3.2.4 Fully Protected Species

California statutes also accord “fully protected” status to a number of specifically identified birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. These species cannot be “taken,” even with an incidental take permit (California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3505, 3511, 4700, 5050, and 5515).

3.3 Local Regulatory Requirements – Local Tree Protection

The study area occurs within the City of Redding. The proposed park expansion involves the removal of certain native to accommodate the construction of the park facility. To comply with the California Environmental Quality Act, the City of Redding tree ordinance would be applicable.

The City of Redding Municipal Code (Chapter 18.45-Tree Management) intent and objectives are to:

 Protect and enhance the aesthetic qualities of the community provided by native and nonnative trees;

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 Promote a healthy and attractive urban landscape as the community grows;

 Recognize the importance of trees as a visual and physical buffer;

 Preserve the City’s valuable natural features;

 Require the replacement of trees that are removed, where appropriate;

 Establish a program for the planting of trees in new developments; and

 Protect trees on undeveloped properties until such time as a development plan/building permit is approved.

To achieve these goals, the City of Redding may require that a tree removal permit be obtained prior to removal of trees on vacant/undeveloped lands. Section 18.45.030 states that “No tree, regardless of species, that exceeds six inches DBH [diameter at breast height] on any developed or undeveloped/vacant property in the city shall be destroyed, killed, or removed unless a tree removal permit is first obtained under the provisions of this chapter…”.

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4.0 BIOLOGICAL SITE SURVEY

4.1 Pre-Survey Review

Special-status plant and animal species and sensitive habitats that have the potential to occur within the project area were determined, in part, by reviewing agency databases, literature, and other relevant sources. The following information sources were reviewed to aid this determination:

 Redding, California, USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle;

 Aerial photography of the project area and vicinity;

 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) official list of endangered and threatened species that may occur, or be affected by projects, as provided by the Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office (Consultation Code 08ESMF00-2021-SLI-0554), included as Appendix A;

 The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (California Department of Fish and Wildlife 2020a) records for the Redding, California USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle and the eight surrounding quadrangles, included as Figure 4;

 The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (California Native Plant Society 2015) records for the Redding, California USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle and the eight surrounding quadrangles;

 California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) System (California Department of Fish and Game 2019).

 GIS shapefiles of designated critical habitat from the USFWS Critical Habitat Portal website;

 CDFW publications including State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened and Rare Plants of California (CDFW 2020b); State and Federally Listed and Threatened Animals of California (CDFW 2020c); and Special Animals List (CDFW 2020d); and

 Pertinent biological literature including Bird Species of Special Concern in California (Shuford and Gardali 2008).

4.2 Survey Methods

A pedestrian survey was conducted on December 15, 2020. The survey covered the entire project area as well as adjacent sensitive resource areas, including the riparian habitat along the nearby tributary to Sulphur Creek to the southeast of the project site. A Trimble Geo XT Explorer 6000, Nikon P530 camera, and binoculars were used during the survey to observe and document site characteristics and species presence.

The survey followed available pertinent protocols for determining the presence of certain species or their habitat within a project area. Protocols were completed onsite if possible at the time of

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dubious pea maverick clover

Shasta chaparral foothill yellow-legged frog steelhead - Central Valley DPS Townsend's big-eared bat

vernal pool tadpole shrimp western pearlshell

chinook salmon - Sacramento River winter-run ESU Oregon shoulderband

foothill yellow-legged frog

chinook salmon - Central Valley spring-run ESU

Great Valley Cottonwood Riparian Forest

Great Valley Valley Oak Riparian Forest western pond turtle

bald eagle

western pond turtle

Sulphur Creek brodiaea

silver-haired bat Sulphur Creek brodiaea

foothill yellow-legged frog California linderiella

Red Bluff dwarf rush

Red Bluff dwarf rush foothill yellow-legged frog

Red Bluff dwarf rush

CNDDB Occurrence Project Area

1-Mile Buffer Around Project Area 5-Mile Buffer Around Project Area

FIGURE 4

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year when the survey was completed; this includes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service “Framework for Assessing Impacts to the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle”.

An Aquatic Resources Delineation was completed onsite on March 8 and March 9, 2021. The aquatic resource delineation was performed in accordance with the methodology contained in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and this report was prepared in accordance with guidance provided in the Minimum Standards for Acceptance of Aquatic Resources Delineation Reports. Vegetation, soils, and hydrology were investigated to determine the boundary of wetland features. Data was recorded in the field using a handheld Trimble GeoExplorer 6000 series global positioning system (GPS).

4.3 Survey Results

Site conditions during the survey were typical of a cloudy winter day. Weather was cloudy with no precipitation. Recent precipitation events resulted in wet conditions onsite. The ambient temperature was 50 degrees Fahrenheit (F) during the survey.

Flora and fauna observed during the survey were documented. Survey findings are summarized below. Of the features that initially showed signatures of potential wetland characteristics, one feature exhibited all three indicators of a wetland (e.g. hydric soils, wetland hydrology, and hydrophytic vegetation). The characteristics of this feature (identified as “WF1”) are shown in the Aquatic Resources Delineation map, which is included as Figure 5.

No special-status wildlife species were observed during the survey. The following wildlife species were observed within the project area:

 Western grey squirrel (Sciurus griseus)

 Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)

 Oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus)

 White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)

 Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto)

 Black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans)

 Western bluebird (Sialia mexicana)

 Acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)

 Warbler (Setophaga sp.)

 Sierran tree fog (Pseudaris sierrae)

 Northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)

 Black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus)

No special-status plant species were observed during the survey. The following plant species were observed within the project area:

 Blue oak (Quercus douglassii)

 Green leaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos sp.)

 Poison Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum)

 Coffeeberry (Frangula californica)

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 Interior live oak (Quercus wislizeni)

 Wild oats (Avena fatua)

 Rattlesnake grass (Briza minor)

 Medusahead (Elymus caput medusae)

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TP1 UPTP1 TP2

TP3

Test Pit

Upland Test Pit

Ephemeral Pool Project Area

0 75 150 300^Feet

SOURCE: MAXAR 2019 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH; CITY OF REDDING GIS 2021

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APPENDIX A

DRAFT AQUATIC RESOURCES DELINEATION PANORAMA PARK

REDDING, CALIFORNIA

Acres Linear Feet

Ephemeral Pool 0.039 ----

N/A ---- ----

Waters of the U.S.

Table 1

AQUATIC RESOURCES DELINEATED WITHIN THE SURVEY AREA Water Name Calculation Non-Waters of the U.S.

FIGURE 5

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5.0 POTENTIAL IMPACTS TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

5.1 Special-Status Species

The regionally occurring species identified during the pre-survey consultation were assessed based on the potential for their habitat to occur within the project area. The habitat of each species and determination of whether the species is likely to occur in the project area is summarized in Table 1.

Species that were determined to not have the potential to occur in the project area will not be discussed further because their habitat does not occur within the project impact area. Species that are determined to potentially occur in the project area were included in the scope of the biological resources survey. Potential project-related impacts to these species are discussed below.

Table 1

POTENTIALLY OCCURRING SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES Common

Name Scientific Name

Conservation Status

(state/federal) Description ^Habitat

Potential to Occur in Project Area?

Project Impact Potential Birds

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940

Requires large, old- growth trees or snags in remote, mixed stands near open bodies of water.

No No impact.

Osprey haliaeetus ^Pandion CDFW Watch List

Mature mixed stands with snags near open

bodies of water. ^No No impact.

Golden Eagle chrysaetos ^Aquila

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940

Riverside cliffs and bluffs, grassland. Nest on cliffs and steep escarpments

No No impact.

Tricolored

Blackbird ^Agelaiustricolor State Threatened Freshwater wetlands,

streams, and lakes ^No No impact. Bank Swallow Riparia riparia State Threatened Vertical cliffs with

loose soil ^No No impact.

Northern Spotted Owl

Strix occidentalis

caurina

Federal threatened

Requires large, old- growth trees or snags in remote, mixed stands

No No impact.

Amphibians Foothill Yellow-Legged

Frog Rana boylii CDFW Species of Special Concern

Streams and rivers with rocky substrate

and isolated pools ^No No impact. California Red-

Legged Frog Rana draytonii ^Federalthreatened Perennial streams

and ponds ^No No impact.

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Project Impact Potential Reptiles

Western Pond

Turtle marmorata ^Emys

CDFW Species of Special Concern

Perennial streams and ponds; may deposit eggs in upland locations near aquatic habitat

No No impact.

Fish California Central Valley Steelhead

Oncorhynchus

mykiss irideus ^Federalthreatened

Anadromous life history; known to occur in Sacramento River

No No impact.

Invertebrates Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle

Desmocerus californicus

dimorphus

Federal Threatened

Closely associated with elderberry

shrubs (Sambucus sp.) ^No No impact.

Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp

Lepidurus

packardi ^FederalEndangered Northern hardpan

vernal pools ^Yes

No impact with

implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0.

Vernal Pool

Fairy Shrimp Branchinecta

lynchi ^FederalThreatened Northern hardpan

vernal pools ^Yes

No impact with

Shasta

Chaparral Trilobopsis

roperi USFS Sensitive

Within 100 m. of shaded limestone rockslides or caves with a cover of shrubs or oak.

No No impact.

Kneecap Lanx patelloides ^Lanx

Freshwater streams,

rivers, and lakes ^No No impact. Mammals

Townsend’s

Big-Eared Bat Corynorhinus townsendii

CDFW Species of Special Concern; USFWS Species of Special Concern

Roosts in warm, thermally stable and humid environments such as caves, bridges, or mines

No No impact.

Silver-Haired

Bat Lasionycteris

noctivagans

Includes valley foothill woodlands below 2,750 m., roost in trees either in foliage or under bark; feed over water.

Yes

Potentially suitable roosting trees present; no roost habitat found during site survey. No impact.

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Table 1

Project Impact Potential Plants

Maverick

Clover ^Trifoliumpiorkowskii

1B.2:

“moderately” rare in CA and elsewhere

Foothill woodland, vernal pools; flowers

May ^Yes No impact.

Red Bluff

Dwarf Rush ^Juncusleiospermus

1B.1: “Seriously” rare in CA and elsewhere

Valley Grassland, wetland-riparian, vernal pools and vernally mesic areas; flowers March to May

Yes

No impact with

Redding

Checkerbloom Sidalcea celata

3: Under review, should be reviewed under CEQA

Cismontane woodland open Oak woodland; flowers April-August

Yes

No impact with

Dubious Pea ^Lathyrussulphureus var. argillaceus

3: Under review, should be reviewed under CEQA

Foothill woodland to fir forest, openings in canopy; flowers April-July

Yes

No impact with

implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0. Sulphur Creek

Brodiaea ^Brodiaeamatsonii CDFW Fully Protected

Intermittent

streambeds in foothill woodlands; flowers in June

No No impact.

Slender Orcutt

Grass Orcuttia tenuis 1B.1: “seriously” rare in CA and elsewhere

Foothill Woodland, Freshwater Wetlands; flowers May to September

No No impact.

Silky

Cryptantha Cryptantha crinita

1B.2:

Rocky volcanic soils, gravelly streambanks, gravel bars in foothill woodland; flowers April to May

No No impact.

Pink Creamsacs

Castilleja rubicundula var. rubicundula

1B.2:

Serpentinite in chaparral (openings), Cismontane

woodland, Valley and foothill grassland; flowers April-June

No No impact.

Northern Clarkia

Clarkia borealis ssp. borealis

1B.3: “not very” rare in CA and elsewhere

Chaparral, Cismontane woodland, Lower montane coniferous forest 400-800 meters; flowers June- July

No No impact.

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Project Impact Potential Canyon Creek

Stonecrop

Sedum obtusatum ssp. paradisum

1B.3: “not very” rare in CA and elsewhere

Rock outcrops in chaparral and coniferous forests; flowers May-June

No No impact.

Sensitive Habitats Great Valley Valley Oak

Riparian Forest Quercus lobata CDFW Species of Special

Concern ^No No impact.

Great Valley Cottonwood Riparian Forest

Populus fremontii

Occurs along streams and rivers with a dependable subsurface water supply at elevations between 0-2400 m.

No No impact.

Key: 1B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; 2B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere; 3: Plants about which more information is needed.

The potential impacts that may result from the proposed project activities were assessed for species determined to have potentially occurring habitat onsite. The direct and indirect potential project impacts to the following species are discussed below:

 Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp (Lepidurus packardi)

 Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi)

 Silver-Haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans)

 Maverick Clover (Trifolium piorkowskii)

 Red Bluff Dwarf Rush (Juncus leiospermus)

 Redding Checkerbloom (Sidalcea celata)

 Dubious Pea (Lathyrus sulphureus var. argillaceus) 5.1.1 Vernal Pool Brachiopods

Two species of vernal pool branchiopods were assessed for their potential to occur on-site: vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi), and vernal pool tadpole shrimp (Lepidurus packardi). The vernal pool tadpole shrimp is a California Great Central Valley endemic species, with the majority of the populations occurring in the Sacramento Valley. This species has also been reported from the Sacramento River Delta to the east side of San Francisco Bay, and from a few scattered localities in the San Joaquin Valley from San Joaquin County to Madera County (Rogers 2001). In the Northwestern Sacramento Vernal Pool Region, vernal pool tadpole shrimp are found at the Stillwater Plains and in the vicinity of Redding in Shasta County.

Typically the vernal pool tadpole shrimp is found in habitats that are deeper than 12 centimeters, pond for 15 to 30 days, and do not suffer wide daily temperature fluctuations. The vernal pool tadpole shrimp has not been reported as utilizing strongly saline habitats. This species is found

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in seasonal wetlands and other winter/springtime temporarily ponded areas of sufficient size (depth and area) and seasonality that pond for a sufficient duration to maintain conducive water temperatures to allow the vernal pool tadpole shrimp to complete their life cycles (Rogers 2001). Although the vernal pool tadpole shrimp is found on a variety of geologic formations and soil types, Helm (1998) found that over 50 percent of vernal pool tadpole shrimp occurrences were on High Terrace landforms and Redding and Corning soils.

There are no records of vernal pools or vernal pool-dependent species, such as tadpole shrimp and fairy shrimp, within one mile of the project area (Figure 4). The only documented populations of these species in Shasta County are in Stillwater Plains and Millville Plains regions of East Redding, approximately five miles southeast of the project site. Record searches did not find vernal pool complexes documented in the West Redding area.

Features onsite (described in Section 5.4) were assessed for habitat for vernal pool tadpole shrimp and vernal pool fairy shrimp. One feature meets the required size and depth (while inundated). Water was observed within the depression for several days following a moderate rain event.

Historic urbanization of the area has left the feature onsite isolated from the high-density vernal pool complexes in Shasta County that are known to support vernal pool branchiopods. Urbanization has been documented to reduce brachiopod populations because of reduced habitat quality, limited genetic diversity, and reduced opportunities for recruitment by dispersal from adjacent vernal pools (USFWS 2007). This feature is not likely to sustain a population of vernal pool shrimp or tadpole shrimp. The actual presence of this species is not known without completing protocol-level surveys.

The project would not impact vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi) or vernal pool tadpole shrimp (Lepidurus packardi) with implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0.

Silver-Haired Bat

Lasionycteris noctivagans

As with many bat species in California, utilization of roost habitats varies seasonally. Silver haired bats typically roost singly or in small groups in wooded areas, especially in old growth forests. Some individuals are migratory; silver-haired bats have been documented migrating to Mexico during winter months. Tree hollows, loose bark and small crevices of trees can provide roosting habitat. During migration, may be found in sheds, wood piles, outbuildings and fence posts. This species forages mainly on moths and other soft-bodied insects. Also eats beetles and hard-shelled insects to some extent. Foraging flight is slow and fluttery with short glides above forest streams, ponds, and open brushy areas.

The nearest occurrence of silver-haired bat is approximately 0.6 miles away from the project area. Trees onsite were surveyed for potential bat roost habitat, including hollows, prominent crevices, and exfoliating bark. Blue oaks are generally prone to limb loss over time, which can result in adequate roost habitat in hollows/crevices. No hollows or significant crevices were observed in trees or shrubs onsite. Mature foothill pines generally have exfoliating bark which can provide enough cover for a roosting bat. The foothill pines onsite are small saplings

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The site was surveyed for the presence of foraging habitat as part of the site habitat assessment for silver haired bats. The nearest potential foraging habitat for silver haired bats is likely along the secondary tributary to Sulphur Creek, approximately 400 feet away from the nearest proposed project construction. No disturbance to this area will occur. This assessment finds that no project impacts to silver-haired bats are likely to occur.

Maverick Clover Trifolium piorkowskii

Trifolium piorkowskii occurs in the low foothills of the Cascade Range and upper Sacramento Valley in southern Shasta County and possibly in adjacent portions of Tehama County in northern California, at ca. 300–800 m. It occupies a habitat unlike that of other Trifolium fucatum segregates, preferring shallow vernal depressions on volcanic flats, or the banks of intermittent or perennial watercourses flowing through open rocky grassland, often with scattered blue oaks (Quercus douglasii), or in transitional habitats with scattered chaparral and conifers at higher elevations. The species is evidently rare even within its limited range. While several herbarium specimens exist from other sites, no plants were found at any of these historical sites during searches in 1995 and 1996 (UCSC 2014). At least one of the older collection sites was inundated by the Shasta Reservoir in 1941. A solitary plant was found at a new location off Ash Creek Road in 1997. Unlike most of its relatives, this species does not appear to occur in habitats subject to severe grass competition and, consequently, does not depend on grazing or other forms of periodic soil disturbance for its survival (UCSC 2014).

The site habitat assessment found that habitat for maverick clover is absent from the site. While saturated soils are present, the site lacks rocky substrate that is characteristic of documented maverick clover habitats. Therefore, the project will have no impact on maverick clover.

Red Bluff Dwarf Rush Juncus leiospermus

Red Bluff dwarf rush inhabits vernally moist habitats, including vernal pools, within valley grassland, chaparral, and foothill woodland habitats. The species specialize on higher, less mesic edges of vernal pools but has also been documented at the edges of vernal pools, within deep pools, and at the bottoms of intermittent drainages (USFWS 2005). The species is generally found between 300 to 1000 feet elevation, but reaches 3350 feet in the Goose Valley area of Tehama County (BLM 2008). It is often found in sparsely vegetated habitats (BLM 2008). Common plant associates of Red Bluff dwarf rush include monkey flower (Mimulus sp.), stalked popcorn flower (Plagiobothrys stipitatus var. micranthus), woolly-heads (Psilocarphus sp.), and meadowfoam (Limnanthes sp.). The flowering period for this species occurs annually between March and June (Zika 2015).

There is potential habitat onsite for this species in the areas where seasonally-saturated soils occur. This includes the wetland features shown on Figure 5. Project impacts to Red Bluff dwarf rush would be avoided by implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0 such that no impact to the species would occur.

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Redding Checkerbloom Sidalcea celata

This species is ranked as “3” by the California Rare Plant Ranking, meaning that the necessary information to assign the species a “1” or “2” rank is lacking. Nearly all of the plants constituting California Rare Plant Rank 3 are taxonomically problematic, but may meet the definition of Rare or Endangered under CEQA Guidelines §15125 (c) and/or §15380 and should therefore be considered during CEQA processes. The nearest and most recent records of this species occur in central downtown Redding in May, 1913. Therefore, no reliable reference populations exist for this species.

There is potential habitat onsite for this species in the areas within the Blue oak woodland onsite. Project impacts to Red Bluff dwarf rush would be avoided by implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0 such that no impact to the species would occur.

Dubious Pea

Lathyrus sulphureus var. argillaceus

Dubious pea is a perennial vine-like herb that is occurs in cismontane woodlands, lower montane coniferous forests, upper montane coniferous forests between 500 feet and 3000 meters elevation in Calaveras, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Shasta and Tehama counties. This species is ranked as “3” by the California Rare Plant Ranking, meaning that the necessary information to assign the species a “1” or “2” rank is lacking. Nearly all of the plants constituting California Rare Plant Rank 3 are taxonomically problematic, but may meet the definition of Rare or Endangered under CEQA Guidelines §15125 (c) and/or §15380 and should therefore be considered during CEQA processes.

There is potential habitat for dubious pea within the project area underneath the blue oak woodland canopy. Therefore, this species was considered during the site survey. No dubious pea, or closely related sulphur pea (Lathyrus sulphureus var. sulphureus), was observed during the survey. Plant survey guidelines recommend that a survey is completed during the flowering period for the species. Project impacts to dubious pea would be avoided by implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0 such that no impact to the species would occur.

Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle Desmocurus californica dimorphus

The Valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB) is an insect endemic to the Central Valley of California that inhabits riparian and associated upland habitats where elderberry (Sambucus nigra var. coeruleus or Sambucus racemosa var. microbotrys), its host plant, grows. Specifically, the range for VELB includes the upper Sacramento Valley to the central San Joaquin Valley (USFWS 1991). The beetle’s habitat consists primarily of riparian forests whose dominant plant species include cottonwood (Populus sp.), sycamore (Platanus sp.), valley oak (Quercus lobata), and willow (Salix spp.), with an understory of elderberry shrubs (USFWS 1991). Blue elderberry shrubs in the Central Valley with basal stem diameters larger than 1 inch are considered by the USFWS as potential VELB habitat. Population densities are naturally low and it has been suggested that the beetle is a poor disperser (USFWS 1991).

The VELB lifecycle is intimately connected to its habitat, elderberry shrubs. Following mating,

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1 to 2 years until they mature. They emerge during the spring as adults through exit holes chewed through the bark. The adult beetles feed on the elderberry foliage until they mate, completing the lifecycle.

The VELB geographic range may overlap or abut portions of the California elderberry longhorn beetle (Desmocurus californicus californicus) (CELB) geographic range, which occurs along the foothills of the eastern edge of the California coast. The study area likely falls into the range of the CELB; however, the USFWS is in the process of preparing new distribution maps for the VELB. As result, uncertainties exist regarding VELB occurrence in the Redding area. The recorded upper elevation limit for VELB is 529 feet; however, the potential occurrence was not ruled out for this assessment.

The VELB occurs exclusively on elderberry shrubs; thus, protection of this species is based on protection of the elderberry shrub. The USFWS has prepared framework for assessing impacts to the VELB (USFWS 2017). It is recommended that proposed project sites within the range of VELB be surveyed by a qualified Biologist for the presence of elderberry shrubs. If elderberry shrubs are found within 50 meters (165 feet) of the project site, it is recommended that the habitat be assessed to determine if the project area is in riparian or non-riparian habitat. The nearest documented occurrence of an elderberry shrub is approximately 1.2 miles east of the project area, south of Highway 44.

The site was surveyed for the presence of elderberry shrubs in areas where the species has the potential to occur. The recommended survey area for VELB potential habitat is 165-feet from any proposed construction. The nearest riparian corridor to the project area is approximately seventy feet away where storm drain outlets flow into an intermittent secondary tributary to Sulphur Creek. Therefore, this riparian corridor was surveyed within 165-foot from the project area. No elderberry shrubs were observed during the site survey. Therefore, the project will not impact VELB or their habitat.

Silver-Haired Bat

Lasionycteris noctivagans

Silver-haired bats are among the most common bats in forested areas of America, most closely associated with coniferous or mixed coniferous and deciduous forest types, especially in areas of old growth. They can be found throughout California during spring and fall migrations (Harris 2005). They form maternity colonies almost exclusively in tree cavities or small hollows in the spring. These aggregations stay together until the young are independent in the late summer or early fall. During this time, adult males most typically roost singly or, less commonly, in bachelor colonies (Johnston 2004).

During the summer when bats are most active and raising their young, they frequently use one roost during the day where they sleep and keep their young, and another roost at night for resting and digesting food. Day roosts tend to be cryptic and concealed; night roosts are more open and exposed. In fall, silver-haired bats migrate to southern areas, their movements closely associated with cold fronts. They overwinter mostly in the southern third of North America, returning north in spring.

Ecological requirements for bat roosts, including maternity roosts, include an appropriate thermal gradient, shelter from predators, and close proximity to foraging sites near open water.

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Trees near riparian areas have the potential to meet these requirements; the roost can occur in small hollows or even underneath exfoliating tree bark (Johnston 2004). Roost habitat has the potential to occur within the project area. The nearest documented occurrence of silver haired bats are approximately 2 miles north of the project site.

The project proposes to plant native trees throughout the bike park area, which will provide increased habitat availability to tree-roosting bat species during long term operations of the facility; therefore, no net loss of silver-haired bat habitat will occur. Project activities that involve tree removal have the potential to disturb a silver-haired bat roost. With the incorporation of the Conservation Measures (Section 1.2), project activities including the construction and long-term operations of the Caldwell Park expansion will not result in impacts to silver-haired bats.

5.1.2 Nesting Birds

Migratory birds and other passerines (songbirds) may nest in the approximately trees located within or in the immediate vicinity of the study area. All raptors and migratory

birds, including common species and their nests, are protected from “take” under the California Fish and Game Code Section 3503 and 3503.5, and federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Large trees onsite and in the surrounding forest provide potential nesting habitat for raptors and migratory birds.

The project may result in the removal of native Blue Oak trees within the footprint of the park structures. Tree removal and construction activities during the nesting season (February 1 – August 31), such as tree removal and noise-generating construction activities that disturb a nesting bird or destroy active nests, could result in impacts to nesting birds. Implementation of the conservation measures described in Section 6.0 would reduce potential impacts on nesting birds such that there are no impacts to nesting birds.

5.2 Rare Natural Communities and Sensitive Habitats

In addition to inventorying reported occurrences of special-status species, the CNDDB serves to inventory the locations of rare natural communities. Communities respond to environmental changes and can be thought of as an indicator of the overall health of an ecosystem and its component species. Rare natural communities are those communities that are of highly limited distribution. They may or may not contain rare, threatened, or endangered species. The CNDDB ranks natural communities according to their rarity and endangerment in California. According to CNDDB, two sensitive habitats occur within five miles of the project area: Great Valley Cottonwood Riparian Forest and Great Valley Valley Oak Riparian Forest. Both habitat types are considered under CEQA as a CDFW Species of Special Concern (CNDDB 1986). According to CNDDB, both habitat types occur along the Sacramento River corridor. The site survey found that no Great Valley Cottonwood Riparian Forest and Great Valley Valley Oak Riparian Forest occur onsite. Therefore, no impacts to these rare or sensitive natural communities would occur.

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5.3 Tree Resources

The primary purposes of the City of Redding’s Tree Ordinance (Chapter 18.45 of the Zoning Code) are: 1) the preservation of existing native and nonnative trees where feasible; 2) the replacement or transplanting of trees removed where appropriate; and 3) the planting of new trees in location, number and kind compatible with local conditions.

Trees within the study area maybe subject to the City of Redding tree ordinance. The project area encompasses several mature native Blue Oak trees within the proposed project area. These may be considered “candidate trees” that would be subject to further evaluation to determine if any of these trees are appropriate for protection per Section 18.45.070 of the City of Redding Municipal Code.

The removal of blue oak trees from the project area would result in the loss of foraging habitat for certain oak woodland-dependent species, such as Acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) and Western grey squirrel (Sciurus griseus) but would not result in take of any special-status species with implementation of measures listed in Section 6.0.

5.4 Wetlands

The presence of water courses was determined through consultation with the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) database and a survey of the project area. The NWI map of the project area and surrounding region is included as Figure 6. An inventory of wetland features was completed during the site survey. Wetland feature boundaries were mapped according to the United States Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987); the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (2008), shown on Figure 5. Final jurisdictional determinations will be made by the Army Corps of Engineers and the State Water Quality Control Board.

Initial review of the site found at least one indicator for wetlands potentially present in several areas within the survey area. Upon investigation of these potential features, only one of the features exhibited all three indicators of a wetland (e.g. hydric soils, wetland hydrology, and hydrophytic vegetation). The characteristics of this feature (identified as “WF1”) are shown in Figure 5. A photo of this feature is shown in Figure 7.

Four storm drain inlets were observed in the project area. These inlets flow through underground culverts as part of the regional storm drain system serving the surrounding neighborhoods. These drains lead to an ephemeral secondary tributary to Sulphur Creek at the storm drain outlet. Storm drains are shown in Figure 8.

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SULP

HURCRE_EK

BOUL_{D ER C} RE_EK

DIX C RE_E

K

UNKNOWN

BO^UL DE^R

C^R EE^K

SU^LP HUR^CR

EE^K

BOULDER_CREEK

Creeks Project Area

Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetland Riverine

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Figure 7. Depressional Wetland feature

Figure 8. Storm Drain Inlet

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6.0 RECOMMENDED CONSERVATION MEASURES

The following conservation measures, Best Management Practices (BMPs), and project features will be incorporated into the project in order to avoid and minimize the potential environmental impacts from construction and long-term operation of the proposed facility:

6.1 Botanical Resources

 Prior to the start of construction, a focused botanical survey should be conducted by a qualified biologist during the blooming period for Redding Checkerbloom (Sidalcea celata), Red Bluff Dwarf Rush (Juncus leiospermus), and Dubious Pea (Lathyrus sulphureus var. argillaceus) per Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Sensitive Natural Communities. If these species are found during the botanical surveys, exclusionary fencing will be placed around the plants to establish an avoidance area during project construction. If the area cannot be avoided, consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife should occur.

6.2 Wetlands and Vernal Pool Species

 Avoidance areas shall be placed around wetland features onsite. High-visibility fencing, flagging, or markers will be installed along the edges of the work zone to prevent impacts to WOTUS and Waters of the State.

 If avoidance is not possible, consultation with the Army Corps of Engineers, State or Regional Water Resources Control Board, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife may be required.

6.3 Nesting Birds

 If vegetation removal will occur during the nesting season for birds (February 1 through August 31), a qualified biologist should conduct a preconstruction survey 7 days before construction activities begin. If nesting birds are found, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will be notified and consulted. An appropriate buffer, as determined by CDFW and the qualified biologist, will be placed around the nest until the young have fledged.

 If an active raptor nest is found during surveys, no construction activities shall occur within 250 feet of the nest unless a different buffer zone is approved by CDFW. Construction may resume once the young have left the nest or as approved by the qualified biologist.

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7.0 REFERENCES

California Native Plant Society. 2015. Inventory of rare and endangered plants (online edition, v8- 02). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/ (accessed August 2015).

CDFW. 2019. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System California. Published by

Department of Fish and Game California Interagency Wildlife Task Group. CWHR version 9.0 personal computer program. Sacramento, CA.

California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2020a. RareFind Version 5.2.14. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento. Accessed November 2020.

California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2020b. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened and Rare plants of California. State of California Natural Resources Agency Biogeographic Data Branch.

California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2020c. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened Animals of California. State of California Natural Resources Agency

Biogeographic Data Branch. Published November 10, 2020.

California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2020d. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened Animals of California. State of California Natural Resources Agency

Biogeographic Data Branch. Published November 2020.

Calflora. Information on California plants for education, research and conservation, with data contributed by public and private institutions and individuals, including the Consortium of California Herbaria. [web application]. 2019. Berkeley, California.

https://www.calflora.org/ (Accessed: Aug 08, 2019).

California Native Plant Society. 2015. Inventory of rare and endangered plants (online edition, v8- 02). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/ (accessed August 2015).

DeBecker, S. and A. Sweet. 1988. Crosswalk between WHR and California vegetation

classifications. Pages 21-39 in: K.E. Mayer, and W.F. Laudenslayer, eds. 1988. A Guide to Wildlife Habitats of California. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Sacramento, California.

Johnston, Dave. Tatarian, Greg. Pierson, Elizabeth. Trapp, Gene. 2004. California Bat Mitigation Techniques, Solutions, and Effectiveness. Published December 29, 2004. HT Harvey & Associates.

Shasta County General Plan. Revised September 2004. Shasta County Department of Resource Management, Planning Division. Chapter 6.7. Pp 6.7.08.

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

PANORAMA PARK AND FIELD HOUSE PROJECT

REDDING, CALIFORNIA

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT

PANORAMA PARK AND FIELD HOUSE PROJECT

REDDING, CALIFORNIA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION

2.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

3.0 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

4.0 BIOLOGICAL SITE SURVEY

5.0 POTENTIAL IMPACTS TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

6.0 RECOMMENDED CONSERVATION MEASURES

7.0 REFERENCES