HomeMy WebLinkAboutTR 5 - 2024-02-14 Focused Plant Surveys - V22 Investments
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY
REPORT
LAKE ELSINORE, RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
(Township 5 South, Range 4 West, Section 32)
APN: 347-250-010, -011 & 377-110-045, -057 and -058
Prepared for:
V22 Investments, LLC
Prepared by:
RCA Associates, Inc.
15555 Main Street, #D4-235
Hesperia, California 92345
(760) 596-0017
Principal Investigators:
Ryan Hunter, Senior Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist
Brian Bunyi, Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist
Project: #2023-96
Updated
February 14, 2024
TITLE PAGE
Date Report Updated: February 14, 2024
Date Field Work Completed: July 12, 17 & 29, 2023
December 19, 2023
Report Title: Focused Plant Surveys
Project Location: Lake Elsinore, CA
Prepared for: V22 Investments, LLC
Principal Investigators: Ryan Hunter,
Senior Environmental Scientist/Wildlife Biologist
Brian Bunyi,
Environmental Scientist/Biologist
Contact Information: Randall C. Arnold, Jr.
RCA Associates, Inc.
15555 Main Street, #D4-235
Hesperia, California 92345
(760) 596-0017
rarnold@rcaassociatesllc.com
www.rcaassociatesllc.com
Ryan David Hunter
RCA Associates, Inc.
15555 Main Street, #D4-235
Hesperia, California 92345
(760) 998-7165
rhunter@rcaassocciatesllc.com
www.rcaassociatesllc.com
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 3 FEBRUARY 2024
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY ................................................................................ 4
2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS .................................................................................................. 5
3.0 METHODOLOGIES ........................................................................................................... 6
4.0 LITERATURE SEARCH .................................................................................................... 8
5.0 RESULTS .......................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 General Biological Resources ........................................................................................ 10
5.2 Federal and State Listed Species in Lake Elsinore Quadrangle ..................................... 10
5.3 Species of Special Concern in Lake Elsinore Quadrangle ............................................. 11
5.4 Species Surveyed For ..................................................................................................... 12
5.5 Riparian Habitat .............................................................................................................. 14
6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................ 15
7.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY .............................................................................................................. 16
CERTIFICATION ........................................................................................................................ 17
Appendix A – Tables and Figures
REGULATORY CONTEXT
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 4 FEBRUARY 2024
1.0 INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY
RCA Inc., was retained by V22 Investments to conduct focused plant surveys on a 61-acre parcel
(Approximate), located SE of the Intersection of 2nd St. and Wasson Canyon Rd. in the City of
Lake Elsinore, California (Township 5 South, Range 4 West, Section 32, USGS Lake Elsinore,
California Quadrangle, 1956) (Figures 1 and 2).
As part of the environmental process, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) data sources were reviewed. Following the data review,
focused surveys were conducted on the site on July 12, 17 & 29, 2023, during which the plant
communities on the site and in the surrounding areas were evaluated by biologists from RCA
Associates, Inc. The focused plant survey targeted six species of plants that have been documented
in the Lake Elsinore quadrant and which could occur within the property boundaries based on their
habitat requirements (CNDDB, 2023). The targeted plant species included Munz's onion (Allium
munzii), San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumila), Parry's spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi var.
parryi), Long-spinedflower (C horizanthe polygonoides var. longispina), many stemmed dudleya
(Dudleya multicaulis) and Palmer's grapplinghook (Harpagonella palmeri). As part of the surveys,
the property and adjoining areas were evaluated for the presence of native habitats which may
support populations of sensitive plant species. The property was also evaluated for the presence of
sensitive habitats including wetlands, vernal pools and riparian habitats. Scientific nomenclature
for this report is based on data from USFWS, CDFW, and the California Natural Diversity
Database (CNDDB, 2023), as well as the following references: Hickman (1993), Munz (1974),
Stebbins (2003), Sibley (2016) and Whitaker (1980).
In summary, no federal or state listed threatened or endangered plant species or species of special
concern were observed on the approximately 50-acre survey area. The site supports disturbed
grassland, chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitat (Figure 3). A drainage channel also transects
the northern portion of the site and supports a few species associated with riparian habitat (i.e.,
narrow leaf willow [Salix exigua] and giant reed [Arundo donax]) (Figure 3).
Three additional parcels (APN: 377-110-045, -057 and -058) were added and was surveyed on
December 19, 2023. The additional parcels surveyed were approximately 11-acres
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 5 FEBRUARY 2024
(approximately) total. There were no federal or state listed threatened or endangered plant species
that were found during the December 2023 survey. The surveyed area and complete project total
are 61-acres which includes APN: 347-250-010, -011 & 377-110-045, -057 and -058.
2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS
The property that was surveyed is approximately 61-acres and is located southeast of 2nd St. and
Wasson Canyon Rd in the city of Lake Elsinore, California. The site is located in Section 32,
Township 5 South, Range 4 West (USGS Lake Elsinore, CA 7.5-minute quadrangle) (Figures 1
and 2). Vacant land surrounds the majority of the site with some commercial developments (e.g.,
storage facilities, warehouses, trailer storage and fitness facilities) west of the property. The
surveyed area is located just north of Interstate 15.
The site is approximately 400 meters above sea level and consists of uneven terrain with varying
slopes ranging from 0 to 30 percent. The vegetation communities present on site include disturbed
grassland, chaparral and coastal sage scrub. A small riverine area associated with an ephemeral
drainage channel is also present in the northern portion of the site. The site supports a variety of
plant species which include California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), giant reed (Arundo
donax), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), coastal prickly pear (Opuntia littoralis), coastal cholla
(Cylindropuntia prolifera), Shortpod Mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), Menzies fiddleneck
(Amsinckia menziesii), black sage (Salvia mellifera), and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). Section
5.0 provides a more detailed discussion of the various plant species observed during the surveys.
No sensitive habitats (e.g., critical habitats, vernal pools, or wetlands) have been documented in
the immediate area (CNDDB (2023) and none were observed during the field investigations.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 6 FEBRUARY 2024
3.0 METHODOLOGIES
Focused plant surveys involve targeted efforts to gather detailed information which may include
presence or absence of specific plant species or groups within a defined geographical area. These
surveys are designed to address specific research questions, conservation concerns, or management
objectives. The methodology for conducting focused plant surveys is tailored to the characteristics
and requirements of the target species or group. The process begins with a thorough literature
review and consultation with botanical experts to gather existing knowledge about the target
plants. This information informs the survey's design, including the selection of appropriate
sampling methods.
Fieldwork is conducted with specialized techniques geared towards the target species. This might
involve extensive visual searches, plant identification using field guides and taxonomic keys, or
collecting plant specimens for verification. Accurate species identification is essential, often
requiring collaboration with experts or reference to herbarium specimens.
Data collection includes recording the presence, abundance, and specific habitat preferences of the
target plants. Geographic coordinates are accurately logged using GPS devices (Cedar CT8X2) to
create precise distribution maps.
Data analysis involves assessing the density, distribution patterns, and ecological associations of
the target species. If applicable, statistical tools, such as occupancy modeling or habitat suitability
modeling, might be used to estimate population size and predict suitable habitats. The survey
results may contribute to species management plans, conservation strategies, and informed
decision-making for land use and development.
Focused plant surveys are particularly valuable for rare, endangered, or invasive species, providing
vital insights into their status, habitat requirements, and potential threats. By tailoring the
methodology to the specific needs of the target plants, focused surveys offer a comprehensive
understanding of their ecology and contribute to their effective conservation and management.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 7 FEBRUARY 2024
Focused plant surveys were conducted on the 12th, 17th and 29th of July 2023, during which
biologists from RCA Associates, Inc. walked three-meter belt transects throughout the property,
including areas of high-density vegetation. During the surveys, data was collected on the plant
species present on the site. All plants detected during the surveys were recorded and are provided
in Tables 1 (Appendix A). Scientific nomenclature for this report is based on the following
references: Hickman (1993), Munz (1974), Stebbins (2003), Sibley (2016) and Whitaker (1980).
The primary focus of the investigations was to identify and generate GPS locations for federal or
state listed endangered species, as well as species of special concern which have the potential to
occur in the area. The July 2023 surveys focused on Munz's onion, San Diego ambrosia, Parry's
spineflower, Long-spinedflower, many stemmed dudleya and Palmer's grapplinghook. Weather
conditions during the surveys included wind speeds of 0 to 10 mph, temperatures in the low 90’s
to mid-90’s (°F) (AM), and 0 to 10% cloud cover. A supplemental survey was conducted to survey
additional parcels on December 19, 2023. Weather conditions during the December survey
included wind speeds for 5 to 10 mph, temperatures in the low to mid 60’s (°F) (AM), and 75%
cloud cover. The applicable methodologies are summarized below.
Three meter transects were walked throughout the site and in surrounding areas (i.e., the zone of
influence), where accessible, at a pace that allowed for careful documentation of the plant species
present on the site. All plants observed were identified in the field or sampled and brought back
for further identification. Table 1(Appendix A) provides a comprehensive compendium of the
various plant species observed during the field investigations.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 8 FEBRUARY 2024
4.0 LITERATURE SEARCH
As part of the environmental process, a search of the California Natural Diversity Database
(CNDDB 2023) search was performed. Based on this review, it was determined that twelve special
status plant species have been documented within the Lake Elsinore quad of the property.
However, only six of these species have the potential to occur on the site given their habitat
requirements. The following table provides data on each special status species which has been
documented in the area.
Table 4-1: Federal and State Listed Species and State Species of Special Concern.
E = Endangered; T = Threatened; SSC = Species of special concern; CNPS = California Native Plant Society;
CNDDB = California Natural Diversity Data Base
NAME STATUS HABITAT
REQUIREMENTS
PRESENCE/
ABSENCE ON PROPERTY
Plant Species
Within Lake Elsinore Quadrangle
Munz onion (Allium munzii) Federal: Endangered
State: Threatened
CNPS:1B.1
Wet clay soils within
grassland and sage scrub
habitats
The site does support suitable habitat
for the species.
San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia
pumila)
Federal: Endangered
State: None
CNPS:1B.1
Floodplains and open
grasslands
The site does support suitable habitat
for the species; however, none were
present during the survey.
San Jacinto Valley crownscale
(Atriplex coronata var.
notatior)
Federal: Endangered
State: None
CNPS:1B.1
Playas, vernal pools. The site does not support suitable
habitat for the species. Species has
not been identified in the area;
therefore, species is not likely to
inhabit the site.
thread-leaved brodiaea
(Brodiaea filifolia)
Federal: Threatened
State: Endangered
CNPS:1B.1
Open grassy places, vernal
pools.
Site does not support suitable habitat
for the species; and no Swainson’s
hawks were observed during the field
survey.
smooth tarplant (Centromadia
pungens ssp. Laevis)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:1B.1
Riparian, meadows, playas. Site does not support suitable habitat
for the species; and no thrashers were
observed during the field survey.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 9 FEBRUARY 2024
Parry's spineflower
(Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:1B.1
Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral The site does support suitable habitat
for the species; however, none were
present during the survey.
Long-spined spineflower (C
horizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:1B.2
Coastal Sage Scrub,
Chaparral, Valley Grassland
The site does support suitable habitat
for the species; however, none were
present during the survey.
slender-horned spineflower
(Dodecahema leptoceras)
Federal: E
State: E
CNPS:1B.1
alluvial fans No suitable habitat for the species and
none were seen on the field survey.
many-stemmed dudleya (D
udleya multicaulis)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:1B.2
Coastal Sage Scrub,
Chaparral, Valley Grassland
The site does support suitable habitat
for the species; however, none were
present during the survey.
Palmer's grapplinghook
(Harpagonella palmeri)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:4.2
Coastal Sage Scrub,
Chaparral, Valley Grassland
The site does support suitable habitat
for the species; however, none were
present during the survey.
Coulter's goldfields (Lasthenia
glabrata ssp. Coulteri)
Federal: None
State: None
CNPS:1B.1
Coastal Salt Marsh,
Freshwater Wetlands, Alkali
Sink, wetland-riparian
No suitable habitat for the species and
none were seen on the field survey.
California Orcutt grass
(Orcuttia californica)
Federal: E
State: E
CNPS:1B.1
Freshwater Wetlands, Valley
Grassland, wetland-riparian
No suitable habitat for the species and
none were seen on the field survey.
Notes:
Status abbreviations:
CNPS List 1A: Plants presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct elsewhere
CNPS List 1B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere
CNPS List 2A: Plants presumed extirpated in California, but more common somewhere else
CNPS List 2B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common somewhere
else
CNPS List 3: Plants about which more information is needed - a review list
CNPS List 4: Plants of limited distribution - a watch list
.1 Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened/ high degree
and immediacy of threat)
.2 Moderately threatened in California (20-80% occurrences threatened/ moderate degree
and immediacy of threat)
.3 No very threatened in California (<20% of occurrences threatened/ low degree and
immediacy of threat or no current threats known)
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 10 FEBRUARY 2024
5.0 RESULTS
5.1 General Biological Resources
The site supports disturbed grassland, chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitat. Species present on
the site include California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), giant reed (Arundo donax), mulefat
(Baccharis salicifolia), coastal prickly pear (Opuntia littoralis), coastal cholla (Cylindropuntia
prolifera), Shortpod Mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), Menzies fiddleneck (Amsinckia menziesii),
black sage (Salvia mellifera), and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). Table 1 provides a compendium
of all plants occurring on the site and/or in the immediate surrounding area. The species of plants
which were focused on for the survey (Munz's onion, San Diego ambrosia, Parry's spineflower,
Long-spinedflower, many stemmed dudleya and Palmer's grapplinghook) were not observed
during the July 2023 field investigations.
An additional survey was conducted on December 19, 2023 to include an additional 11-acres to
the focused plant survey (APN: 377-110-045, -057 and -058). The majority of the parcels have
been previously graded or developed. Plant communities present consist of both a chapparal and
revegetated ruderal plant community. The additional parcels added extend from the original
survey boundaries to the southwest and northwest. Due to the additional parcels being within the
vicinity, similar habitat is present and no occurrences of the focused plants (Munz's onion, San
Diego ambrosia, Parry's spineflower, Long-spinedflower, many stemmed dudleya and Palmer's
grapplinghook) were observed during the December 2023 field survey.
Sections 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 below provide a summary of the listed plant species (threatened or
endangered) and special status species that are listed within the Lake Elsinore quadrant. However,
as noted above, only six of these plants have potential for occurring on the site, and these are
discussed in Section 5.4.
5.2 Federal and State Listed Species in Lake Elsinore Quadrangle
San Jacinto Valley crownscale: San Jacinto Valley crownscale, scientifically known as Atriplex
coronata var. notatior, is a plant species native to California. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae
family. This small shrub is adapted to thrive in arid and semi-arid environments. It is
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 11 FEBRUARY 2024
characterized by its distinctive fleshy leaves and tiny, inconspicuous flowers. San Jacinto Valley
crownscale plays a role in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, making it ecologically
significant in its native habitat. This species occurs in playas and vernal pools.
Thread leaf brodiaea: Thread-leaf brodiaea, scientifically known as Brodiaea filifolia, is a
flowering plant native to California. It belongs to the Lily family, Liliaceae. This perennial plant
is recognized for its slender, thread-like leaves that give it its name. It produces delicate blue to
purple funnel-shaped flowers that grow in clusters atop slender stems. This species occurs in
vernal pool habitat.
Slender-horned spineflower: Dodecahema leptoceras, commonly known as the slender-horned
Spineflower, is an annual herbaceous plant indigenous to coastal regions of California.
Belonging to the Primulaceae family, it is characterized by its basal rosette of elongated leaves
and a tall, slender flowering stem. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular, pink to lavender
flowers, each adorned with long, slender corolla lobes. Dodecahema leptoceras is uniquely
adapted to harsh alpine environments, and its flowering structure likely facilitates pollination by
specialized high-altitude insects. This species occurs in alluvial fans.
California Orcutt grass: California Orcutt Grass (Orcuttia californica) is an herbaceous annual
plant endemic to California's coastal regions. Classified within the Poaceae family, it possesses
distinctive characteristics. This diminutive grass species typically inhabits coastal dune systems,
demonstrating adaptations to thrive in sandy and nutrient-poor soils. Its flowering structure
features spikelet’s with few florets and awns. This species occurs in wetland habitats.
5.3 Species of Special Concern in Lake Elsinore Quadrangle
Smooth tarplant: Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis, commonly known as the Smooth Tarplant,
is a subspecies of flowering annual plant native to California. It falls under the Asteraceae family
and is recognized for its distinctive characteristics. The plant features slender stems and leaves,
covered with glandular secretions that lend a sticky texture. Its flower heads are composed of
bright yellow ray and disk florets, contributing to its visual appeal. This species occurs in wetland
and playa areas.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 12 FEBRUARY 2024
Coulter's goldfields: Coulter's Goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. Coulteri) is a flowering
annual plant endemic to California, primarily found in coastal and montane regions where water
is abundant. Classified within the Asteraceae family, it is characterized by its basal rosette of leaves
and vibrant golden-yellow flower heads. The distinctive daisy-like blooms consist of ray and disk
florets. This species is well-adapted to nutrient-poor soils and displays a unique flowering strategy
known as "delayed flowering," where it conserves energy before producing its striking blooms.
This species occurs in wetland and marsh habitats.
The following are the species which have the potential to occur on the property and are listed
within the Lake Elsinore Quadrant.
5.4 Species Surveyed For
Munz Onion: Allium munzii, commonly referred to as Munz's Onion, is a distinctive
monocotyledonous plant species endemic to the arid landscapes of southern California. Belonging
to the Amaryllidaceae family within the Allium genus, this herbaceous perennial exhibits a
characteristic basal rosette of linear leaves and slender, erect stems that can attain heights of up to
30 cm (CNPS 2023). The inflorescence, a spherical or oval cluster, comprises numerous star-
shaped flowers colored in hues ranging from pink to purplish. The species thrives in rocky terrains,
predominantly within chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. However, Munz's Onion faces
conservation challenges, being designated as a rare and endangered plant due to urbanization-
induced habitat degradation and fragmentation. This species occurs in grassland and coastal sage
scrub habitats.
San Diego ambrosia: Ambrosia pumila, known by the common name "San Diego ambrosia" is a
notable dicotyledonous plant species endemic to the southwestern United States, particularly in
the arid regions of California and Baja California (CNPS 2023). Falling under the Asteraceae
family within the Ambrosia genus, this perennial shrub presents a distinct growth form
characterized by its low stature, rarely exceeding 50 cm in height. The intricate morphology
includes finely dissected leaves and inconspicuous flowers, which are organized in terminal
clusters. Ambrosia pumila is intrinsically adapted to thrive in challenging environments, often
colonizing barren or disturbed sites, including sandy soils and rocky outcrops. Notably, it assumes
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 13 FEBRUARY 2024
a pivotal ecological role as a pioneering plant species in post-disturbance succession. This species
occurs in floodplains and grassland habitats.
Parry’s spineflower: Parry's spineflower, scientifically known as Chorizanthe parryi, is a
perennial plant species belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Indigenous to the arid landscapes
of California and Baja California, this herbaceous species is characterized by its distinctive growth
form and unique floral morphology (CNPS 2023). The plant typically grows in small, compact
clumps, reaching heights of around 20 to 60 cm. Parry's spineflower displays an arrangement of
narrow leaves and intricate flower structures that consist of clusters of small, tubular flowers with
papery bracts. The flower bracts are often tinted in shades of pink, red, or white, contributing to
its visual allure. It primarily thrives in well-draining, sandy or rocky soils, often colonizing
hillsides, slopes, and other similar habitats. As an important component of the local ecosystem,
Parry's spineflower serves as a source for various pollinators. Given its restricted distribution and
vulnerability to habitat disturbances, including urbanization, the conservation of this species has
become a critical concern, underscoring the need for safeguarding its unique genetic heritage and
ecological role within its native range. This species occurs in coastal sage habitat.
Long-spined spineflower: The Long-spined spineflower, scientifically known as Chorizanthe
longispina, is a perennial plant species in the Polygonaceae family. Native to the diverse
landscapes of California and Baja California, these herbaceous perennial exhibits distinct
characteristics that define their ecological role. Growing in compact clusters, the Long-spined
spineflower attains a height ranging from 20 to 50 cm, showcasing an assemblage of elongated
leaves and unique floral structures (Calflora 2023). The inflorescence is composed of small tubular
flowers adorned with bracts that sport long, spine-like appendages. These bracts are often found
in shades of pink, red, or white, enhancing its visual appeal. The species' preferred habitats
encompass well-draining soils, commonly found on slopes, hillsides, and other comparable
environments. As a crucial participant in local ecosystems, the Long-spined spineflower attracts
diverse pollinators by providing nectar resources. This species occurs in coastal sage habitat.
Palmer’s grapplinghook: Palmer's grapplinghook, scientifically known as Harpagonella
palmeri, is a notable plant species within the family Asteraceae. This perennial herb is
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 14 FEBRUARY 2024
distinguished by its unique morphology and ecological adaptations. The plant typically exhibits a
sprawling growth habit, with slender stems that may reach lengths of up to 50 cm. Characterized
by its elongated leaves and clusters of small, intricate flowers, Palmer's grapplinghook possesses
flower heads that consist of both disc and ray florets (Calflora 2023). The plant's floral anatomy,
including hooked bristles on its involucre, has earned it its common name. These bristles play a
role in dispersing the plant's seeds by clinging to passing animals or clothing. The species thrives
in well-draining, rocky or sandy soils, commonly found in desert foothills and other arid habitats.
Many-stemmed dudleya: Many-stemmed dudleya, scientifically known as Dudleya polycaulis,
is a perennial succulent species belonging to the Crassulaceae family. Endemic to the rugged
landscapes of California's coastal regions, particularly in Baja California and southern California,
this distinctive plant exhibits unique morphological traits and ecological adaptations. The species
is characterized by its rosette growth habit, with multiple stems that can reach heights of 15 to 30
cm. (Calflora 2023). Each rosette is composed of fleshy, lance-shaped leaves arranged in a
symmetrical pattern. Many-stemmed dudleya produces vibrant clusters of star-shaped flowers at
the center of its rosettes, with colors ranging from pale yellow to creamy white. These blooms
attract a variety of pollinators, contributing to their ecological role. Flourishing in rocky or sandy
soils, Many-stemmed dudleya thrives in coastal bluffs, cliffs, and other similar environments.
However, its specific habitat requirements and localized distribution make it susceptible to habitat
degradation and collection pressures. As a result, conservation initiatives focused on preserving
the genetic diversity and habitat integrity of this species are of paramount importance to ensure
the continued existence of Many-stemmed dudleya within its native range.
5.5 Riparian Habitat
An ephemeral channel exists within the boundaries of the project in the northern portion of the
property (Figure 3). Within riverine habitat, two species typically associated with riparian areas
were identified including the giant reed (Arundo donax) and narrow leaf willow (Salix exigua).
No state or federally listed plant species or species of special concern were observed within the
channel.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 15 FEBRUARY 2024
6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Munz's onion, San Diego ambrosia, Parry's spineflower, Long-spinedflower, many
stemmed dudleya and Palmer's grapplinghook were not observed during the July 2023 and
December 2023 updated field investigations. However, the survey results do provide data
regarding the local plant communities. Data gathered through the survey does add to the
baseline knowledge of the area's vegetation composition, which may be important for
future comparative studies and long-term monitoring efforts. In addition, the results
presented in this report do provide a reference point for any changes that might occur over
time.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 16 FEBRUARY 2024
7.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY
Baldwin, Bruce G, et. al.
2002. The Jepson Desert Manual. Vascular Plants of Southeastern California.
University of California Press, Berkeley, CA.
California Department of Fish and Game
2023. Rarefind 6 Natural Diversity Database. Habitat and Data Analysis Branch.
Sacramento, CA.
California Department of Fish and Game
March 7, 2013. Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. 34 pp.
California Native Plant Society
2001. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (sixth edition). Rare Plant
Scientific Advisory Committee, David P. Tibor, Convening Editor. California Native
Plant Society. Sacramento, CA x + 388 pp.
Calflora. 2023. Calflora Plant Database. Accessed July 2023. https://www.calflora.org/.
CNPS. 2023. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (online edition, v8-03 0.39).
http://www.rareplants.cnps.org.
Hickman, James C.
The Jepson Manual Higher Plants of California. University of California Press.
Berkeley, CA. 3rd Edition. 1996.
Jaeger, Edmund C.
1969. Desert Wild Flowers. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California. 321 pp.
Munz, Philip A.
1974. A Flora of Southern California. University of California Press, Berkeley,
California. 1086 pp.
Tugel, Arlene J., Woodruff, George A.
Soil Conservation Service, 1978. Soil Survey of San Bernardino County California,
Mojave River Area.
FOCUSED PLANT SURVEY 17 FEBRUARY 2024
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits, presents the data
and information required for this biological evaluation, and that the facts, statements, and
information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Fieldwork
conducted for this assessment was performed by Ryan Hunter and Brian Bunyi. I certify that I
have not signed a non-disclosure or consultant confidentiality agreement with the project applicant
or applicant’s representative and that I have no financial interest in the project.
Date Updated: _____01/18/2024________ Signed: Ryan Hunter
Brian Bunyi
Field Work Performed By: Ryan Hunter______
Environmental Scientist/Biologist
Field Work Performed By: Brian Bunyi_____ _
Environmental Scientist/Biologist
Appendix A
Tables and Figures
Project Boundary
Legend
Figure 1: Regional Exhibit
Produced By: RCA Associates Inc.
SE of the Intersection of 2nd St. and
Wasson Canyon Rd. in Lake Elsinore,
CA.
Uinta SoftwareSource:
61-Acres
(Approximately)Acreage:
2023-96Project #:
Project Boundary
Legend
Figure 2: Vicinity Exhibit
Produced By: RCA Associates Inc.
SE of the Intersection of 2nd St. and
Wasson Canyon Rd. in Lake Elsinore,
CA.
Uinta SoftwareSource:
61-Acres
(Approximately)Acreage:
2023-96Project #:
Coastal Sage Scrub/Chaparral
Grasslands
Developed/Distrubed Land
Riverine
Project Boundary
Legend
Figure 3: Vegetation Map SE of the Intersection of 2nd St.
and Wasson Canyon Rd. in the
City of Lake Elsinore, CA.
Uinta SoftwareSource:
61-Acres
(Approximately)Acreage:
2023-96Project #:
Table 1 - Plants observed on the site and known to occur in the immediate surrounding
area.
Common Name Scientific Name Location
Asian mustard Brassica tournefortii On Site and in the surrounding area.
Redstem stork’s bill Erodium cicutarium “
Scotch broom Cytisus scoparius “
Rusty popcorn flower Plagiobothrys nothofulvus “
Baker’s goldfields Lasthenia californica “
Colter’s horseweed Laennecia coulteri “
Tamarisk Tamarix “
Coastal prickly pear Opuntia littoralis “
Slender wild oat Avena barbata “
Lemon scented gum Corymbia citriodora “
Compact brome Brome spp. “
California broom sage Lepidospartum squamatum “
Lemon tree Citrus limon “
Towani pine tree Pinus sabiniana “
Colter’s lupine Lupinus sparsiflorus “
Lanceleaf liveforever Dudleya lanceolata “
Cheatgrass Bromus tectorum “
Black sage Salvia mellifera “
Shortpod mustard Hirschfeldia incana “
Western tansymustard Descurainia pinnata “
Olive Olea europaea “
California poppy Eschscholzia californica “
Menzies fiddleneck Amsinckia menziesii “
Hollyleaf cherry Prunus ilicifolia “
California sage brush Artemisia californica “
Rattlesnake weed Euphorbia albomarginata “
Desert wishbone Mirabilis laevis “
Brittlebush Encelia farinosa “
Menzies goldenbush Isocoma menziesii “
Coastal Cholla Cylindropuntia prolifera “
Dodders Cuscuta “
Chia Salvia hispanica “
Kelch grass Schismus barbatus “
Common grapevine Vitis vinifera “
Mule fat Baccharis salicifolia “
Elder berry tree Sambucus “
China berry tree Melia azedarach “
Giant reed Arundo donax “
Can buckwheat Fagopyrum esculentum “
Doveweed Croton setigerus “
White horehound Marrubium vulgare “
Stinknet Oncosiphon pilulifer “
Note: The above list is not intended to be a comprehensive list of every plant which may occur on the site or in
the zone of influence