SR 06:242 - Laserfiche WebLink

Furthermore, although no well-developed scrub habitat is present within the study area, such habitat does exist along the slopes immediately west of the project site. This area provides potential habitat for Alameda whipsnake (Masticophis latera/is euryxanthus), a federal and state listed Threatened species. The Alameda whipsnake has the potential to move into the study area during the mating season in spring. In addition to the above species, a variety of raptors (birds of prey) and other migratory birds could use the site, with some potential for nesting due to the presence of many large, mature trees. Biological Constraints and Recommendations Given the potential for occurrence of several special-status wildlife species, and because of the proposed impacts to potentially jurisdictional drainages in the current site plans, Sycamore recommends conducting a thorough biological assessment and formal jurisdictional determination for the subject property for adequate disclosure under CEQA The jurisdictional determination should be formally verified by a representative of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Impacts to Water of the U.S. and State require regulatory permits. The type of permits required and duration of the permitting process is dependent upon project design and proposed impacts to regulated biological resources. The biological assessment would make further recommendations for focused botanical surveys for special-status plant species to be conducted during the seasons when the target species can be identified in the field. Furthermore, a pre-construction survey for nesting raptors and other birds on site would be recommended prior to any tree removal, pruning of limbs or grading scheduled during the nesting season. The nesting season generally extends from February I through August 31; however, it begins earlier for some raptors. Typically, a buffer zone of 75 to 300 feet is required to protect adults and nestlings from construction disturbances. If occupied nests are detected, exclusion areas would be required until young birds have fledged. Destruction of occupied nests would be in violation of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game code. Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions, Our office telephone number is (925) 279- 0580. tthew Bettelheim Wildlife Biologist Sycamore Associates LLC i~~ Christopher Thayer ~ Botanist and Wetland Specialist Sycamore Associates LLC Enclosures: Penmttmg ~hcatlOns t=out Permitting Flow Chart References Cited S:\ProjeCJSV<4uity E1llerpriseMeports\DueDiligenceEquily 09202004.doc 5