FINAL
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED
VENOCO ELLWOOD PIPELINE ROUTE
May 2010
Prepared by
Marine Research Specialists (MRS)
3140 Telegraph Road
Ventura, CA 93001-3238
and
5464 Carpinteria Ave., Suite K
Carpinteria, California 93013
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 1 METHODS ......................................................................................................................................... 1 VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE HABITAT ASSESSMENT ........................................................ 2 SENSTIVE SPECIES SURVEY RESULTS ..................................................................................... 4 4.1 Plants ....................................................................................................................................... 4 4.2 Wildlife ................................................................................................................................... 5 RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................................... 5 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................... 6 TABLES
Table 1. Timing of Biological Surveys for the Proposed Pipeline Route. .......................................... 9 Table 2. Sensitive Plant Species Known or Have the Potential to Occur along the Proposed
Pipeline Route (Revised Table 4.5.3-3 from DEIR) ......................................................... 11 Table 3. Plant Species Observed During Surveys ............................................................................... 13 Table 4. Sensitive Wildlife Species Observed during the Pipeline Corridor Surveys ................... 15 Table 5. Drainages, Streams and Wetlands Along the Proposed Pipeline Route (East to West)
(Revised Table 4.5.3-1 from DEIR) .................................................................................... 17 FIGURES
Figures 1 through 7: Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
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1.0
INTRODUCTION
Ellwood Pipeline Inc. (EPI) is a public utility pipeline corporation that has filed an application with the
County of Santa Barbara (County) to install a new pipeline from the Ellwood Onshore Facility (EOF).
EPI is wholly owned by Venoco, an oil and gas company. The new pipeline would connect to the existing
Plains Pipeline, L.P. (PPLP) Coastal Pipeline at Las Flores Canyon (LFC) and would eliminate all
operations at the Ellwood Marine Terminal (EMT). The County has prepared a Draft Environmental
Impact Report (DEIR) in accordance with CEQA to assess the potential for environmental impacts
associated with the construction and operation of this new pipeline between the EOF and the existing
PPLP Coastal Pipeline at LFC and abandonment of the EMT and Line 96 segment between the EOF and
EMT. The purpose of this report is to confirm and update information on onshore biological resources
presented in the original DEIR along the proposed pipeline corridor.
Marine Research Specialists (MRS) and Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC)
biologists conducted more than 15 surveys (representing 33 person days) along the proposed Venoco
Ellwood pipeline route in July and November 2009, and in March, April and May, 2010. The purpose of
the surveys was to assess vegetation and determine the presence (and potential for occurrence) of special
status plant and wildlife species within the 50-foot wide proposed pipeline corridor in support of the Final
Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) currently being prepared for the project. Special attention was
given to increasing information on biological resources over several seasons.
Native plant habitats observed along the corridor include coastal sage scrub, coyote bush scrub, nonnative grasslands, riparian and wetland habitats. In addition, one area (just under 1 acre in size) of native
grassland was found at the alternative terminus of the corridor (westernmost extent of the project). Santa
Barbara County Environmental Thresholds of Significance Report (1993) defines native grasslands as
areas where native grassland species comprise 10 percent or more of the total relative cover (areas of
native grasslands over one-quarter acre in size qualify for special protection). The only sensitive plant
species confirmed present along the pipeline route was Santa Barbara honeysuckle (Lonicera subspicata
var. subspicata), included on the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) List 1B; rare and endangered in
California and elsewhere. Several sensitive wildlife resources and habitats were observed during the
surveys including California species of special concern avian species, raptor nesting, raptor foraging
habitat, and sensitive species nesting habitat.
Additional discussion on the vegetation assessment and sensitive plant and wildlife species is presented
below. Survey dates are presented in Table 1 (all Tables are included at the end of this report). The list
of target sensitive plant species (Table 4.5.3-3 from the DEIR), updated with additional information on
the potential for the species to occur along the pipeline route, is included as Table 2. A list of plant
species observed during the survey is included as Table 3. Sensitive wildlife species reported from the
project vicinity or observed during surveys, including California and local species of concern, is presented
in Table 4. A description of the drainages, streams and wetlands along the proposed pipeline route is
included as Table 5 (revised Table 4.5.3-1 from the DEIR). Updated figures depicting the vegetation and
important biological resources observed along the pipeline route (Figures 1 through 7) are attached at the
end of this report.
2.0
METHODS
Surveys were conducted by walking a minimum 50-foot wide corridor along the proposed route as
depicted in the route maps dated Feb. 15, 2007. Table 1 lists survey dates, personnel conducting the
survey, and the area covered each survey day by mile post (MP) number or drainage. MRS and SAIC
1
biologists conducted surveys of the proposed pipeline route on 16 different days, representing a total of
33 person-days
Surveys were conducted in all portions of the proposed pipeline corridor. However, some areas had
limited access at certain times of the year. All sections of the pipeline route were surveyed at least once,
and all were surveyed in spring 2010. All plants were identified to species as feasible (depending on the
availability of flowers and fruits) and the vegetation along the route was mapped and assessed. Plant
species names follow the Jepson Manual (Hickman 1993).
MRS wildlife biologists walked the entire route of the proposed pipeline corridor in each of the four
different seasons. Focused surveys also occurred at those portions of the pipeline corridor that supported
habitat that was the most suitable for sensitive species. Special attention was given to denser vegetation
and riparian habitat for its potential use by sensitive songbirds, nesting species and raptors use. Open
habitat was valued in terms of its ability to support foraging raptor species. All open habitat and scrub
habitats were inspected for the presence of burrowing owls and sign of badgers and other burrowing
mammals.
All sensitive resources reported from the project vicinity (CDFG 2010) or observed during the
MRS/SAIC surveys were added to existing figures of the proposed project footprint (Figures 2 through
7).
3.0
VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE HABITAT ASSESSMENT
As depicted on the proposed pipeline route maps (dated Feb. 15, 2007) most of the proposed pipeline is
located within existing paved and dirt roads or trails, with a smaller portion located in non-native
grassland communities. The vegetation adjacent to the roads and trails was surveyed to incorporate at
least a 50-foot survey corridor (a wider corridor was surveyed in some areas to ensure adequate
identification of biological resources). The upland vegetation along the route includes non-native
grassland and weed-dominated herbaceous communities, coyote brush scrub and coastal sage scrub, oak
trees, native and non-native planted trees, agricultural areas (including orchards), and landscaped areas.
One area of native grasses was observed at the western terminus of the corridor. The pipeline also crosses
over or will be bored under several streams and intermittent drainages with riparian and wetland
vegetation.
The upland vegetation communities were described in the DEIR and the descriptions remain valid with
the exception of the description of coastal sage scrub. The DEIR states the scrub vegetation along the
pipeline route is primarily degraded coyote brush scrub dominated by coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis).
The recent survey mapped the scrub vegetation as follows (see Figures 1 though 7):
•
Coyote brush scrub is dominated by coyote brush with little to no other native shrub species
present. Areas where the coyote brush forms a nearly closed canopy with little understory is
mapped as moderate to good. Areas where the shrub canopy is open with an abundance of nonnative grasses and weedy species in the understory or between the shrubs is mapped as degraded
coyote brush scrub. Coyote brush scrub is sometimes considered a form of coastal sage scrub. It
is prevalent on the coastal marine terraces between Goleta and Gaviota and is abundant north of
Point Conception where it is a characteristic species of Central (Lucian) Coastal Scrub and
Northern Coastal Scrub (Holland 1986). The terraces where coyote brush occurs may have been
cultivated at one time but have been dominated by scrub for decades.
•
Coastal sage scrub is dominated by a mix of native shrub species dominated or co-dominated by
California sage brush (Artemisia californica) and coyote brush. Good to moderate coastal sage
2
scrub has little to no weedy species or non-native grasses or these species are limited to the
immediate roadside or edges of the plant community. In addition, some areas of good to
moderate coastal sage scrub has a diversity of native species including lemonade berry (Rhus
integrifolia), purple sage (Salvia leucophylla), malacothrix (Malacothrix saxatilis var. tenuifolia),
poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), vervain (Verbena lasiostachys), elderberry (Sambucus
mexicana), Santa Barbara honeysuckle (a CNPS List 1B species, discussed below under sensitive
plant species), California figwort (Scrophularia californica) and others. Diverse coastal sage
scrub communities along the alignment are most prevalent on hillsides (e.g., slopes where
canyons cut through the terraces). Degraded coastal sage scrub is dominated by California
sagebrush and coyote brush, but has little to no diversity of other native shrubs and non-native
grasses and weedy species are present throughout the community.
Areas where individuals or groups of coast live oak trees (Quercus agrifolia) and other native shrubs and
trees, such as coffee berry (Rhamnus californica) and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) were observed, as
well as planted or ornamental trees and shrubs, were also mapped along the route (see Figures attached to
this report).
Native grassland habitat was mapped in one location at the western extent of the project, along the
alternative pipeline terminus. As stated above, Santa Barbara County Environmental Thresholds of
Significance Report (1993) defines native grasslands as areas where native grassland species comprise 10
percent or more of the total relative cover. Although a quantitative analysis of the grassland was not
conducted during the survey, most of the area mapped consisted of dense stands of purple needlegrass
(Nassella pulchra), a native perennial grass, with some smaller groups or individuals interspersed
between the patches. Individuals were also present outside the mapped boundary, but were considered
outliers and not included in the native grassland mapped in the field. Annual non-native grasses and forbs
and some small, native shrubs were also present within the native grassland. Based on qualitative
assessment in the field, the average relative cover of the purple needlegrass was 10 percent or greater
within the mapped boundary. Per the Santa Barbara County Environmental Thresholds of Significance
Report (1993), areas of native grasslands over one-quarter acre in size qualify for special protection.
Only the area of the pipeline route was surveyed, it is possible more native grasslands could be present in
the project vicinity.
Riparian areas, including willow riparian and riparian woodland, are primarily associated with drainages
that are crossed by the pipeline route. The willow riparian areas are dominated by arroyo willow (Salix
lasiolepis) and riparian woodland areas include willow, but also support native trees including coast live
oak or sycamores (Platanus racemosa). Table 4 is a revised version of Table 4.5.3-1 from the DEIR and
describes the habitat and sensitive resources present at each drainage crossed by the proposed pipeline
route. Many of the smaller, intermittent drainages support small clumps of willows or have no riparian or
wetland vegetation associated with them.
Wetlands were not found along the pipeline route during surveys conducted in 2007. The recent survey
found three areas of wetland vegetation not previously reported. One larger wetland area (18,000 sq ft
[0.41 acre]) is present at MP 4.6, in the vicinity of a home and other structures. This wetland is
dominated by cattails (Typha sp.) and is bordered by a large stand of willows to the east, Highway 101 to
the south, Kikuyu grass (Penisetum clandestinum) on the west, and a dirt road on the north. The proposed
pipeline route will cross the wetland and willows at this location, resulting in a partial loss of these
resources. A second wetland area is located in the same vicinity (MP 4.35) of the home and is associated
with a culvert under the access road to the home. A small patch of cattails and willow seedlings are
present at this culvert crossing. The third wetland is located on the Santa Barbara Ranch property at MP
2.75. This is a small, herbaceous wetland dominated by non-native species such as rabbit’s foot grass
(Polypogon monspeliensis), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) and curly dock (Rumex crispus).
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4.0
4.1
SENSTIVE SPECIES SURVEY RESULTS
Plants
Table A-1 (at the end of this report) is an update of Table 4.5.3-1 from the DEIR, which included the list
of the plant species that were known or had the potential to occur in the project area described in the
DEIR, including the pipeline route. The table has been updated to include the species status, blooming
time, and additional notes based on survey results. In addition, a review of the most current California
Natural Diversity Database (CDFG 2010) and CNPS Inventory (CNPS 2010) was conducted to see if
there had been any changes in status or additions to the table. There were no additions to the sensitive
plant list or changes in status, although CNPS has eliminated the Rarity, Endangerment, and Distribution
(R-E-D) code and added a Threat code to the CNPS rating (see Table A-1).
Four CNPS List 1B plant species including southern tarplant (Centromadia parryii ssp. australis), Santa
Barbara honeysuckle, black-flowered figwort (Scrophularia atrata), and mesa horkelia (Horkelia cuneata
ssp. puberula) are known or expected to occur along the pipeline route based on review of existing
information. In addition, Santa Barbara morning glory (Calystegia sepium ssp. binghamiae) has been
reported from the project vicinity, although this species is included on CNPS List 1A, presumed extinct in
California. Two other species included on CNPS List 4 (a watch list) that also had potential for
occurring on the project route include Plummer’s baccharis (Baccharis plummerae ssp. plummerae) and
Cliff malacothrix (Malacothrix saxatilis var. saxatilis).
The only sensitive plant species found during the survey is the Santa Barbara honeysuckle, which is
present at several locations along the pipeline route, primarily associated with good to moderate quality
coastal sage scrub (see Figures at the end of this report). Individuals of this species occur immediately
adjacent to the road at several of the locations and, in addition, several individuals are located within the
proposed directional drill entry hole and staging area on the west side of Eagle Canyon. There is a high
potential for pipeline installation to remove or otherwise damage individuals of Santa Barbara
honeysuckle.
Black-flowered figwort, southern tarplant, and mesa horkelia were not found during the SAIC 2009-2010
surveys, although suitable habitat for these species is present. The more common California figwort was
fairly common within the moderate to good coastal sage scrub habitats along the route at the time of the
May 2010 survey. Individuals of this species were examined in various areas along the route and all
exhibited the bright red color and open throat characteristic of the more common California figwort.
Suitable- habitat for the southern tarplant was observed within the proposed directional drill exit hole and
staging area on the east side of Eagle Canyon. There is a shallow, swale like drainage through this area
that could provide habitat for the southern tarplant. Southern tarplant is an annual species and,
consequently, its local abundance and distribution may vary from year to year in relation to timing and
amount of rainfall or variation in other climatic conditions during a particular year (i.e., in years with
normal to above average rainfall. However, this species was not observed during any of the surveys,
including May 2010 (which had above average rainfall late in the season), and the drainage was
consistently vegetated with upland, non-native grasses and forbs. Mesa horkelia is known to occur in
coastal scrub habitats in the project area, but this species was not found during the survey. Santa Barbara
morning glory was also not found during surveys. Morning glory was observed at several locations in the
scrub, grassland and weed-dominated habitats along the route, and was fairly common during the May
2010 survey, but all plants investigated were determined to be the more common morning glory
(Calystegia macrostegia var. cyclostegia).
Plummer’s baccharis and cliff malacothrix could also occur in the coastal scrub communities along the
pipeline route. Plummer’s baccharis is somewhat similar in appearance to the more common coyote
4
brush except the Plummer’s baccharis is a slightly smaller shrub with slender wand-like stems and tends
to be found on canyon sides and slopes rather than on terraces where coyote brush is prevalent. It would
have been blooming at the time of the July 2009 survey (coyote brush blooms August to October)
(Hickman 1993; Smith 1998). Only the more common coyote brush was observed along the pipeline
route. Malacothrix saxatilis is present at several locations along the pipeline route, primarily in
association with scrub habitats (both the degraded and good to moderate coastal sage scrub and coyote
brush scrub). Several individuals of this species were collected for further identification and were
determined not to be the sensitive cliff malacothrix (M. s. var. saxatilis). While the individuals collected
had some characteristics of the sensitive variety (the upper leaves were entire to barely toothed vs.
toothed to pinnately lobed), all plants observed had upper stems that were sparsely leafy, had open
inflorescences, and originated from a caudex (vs. a rhizome). Therefore, the plants observed in the area
were determined to be M. saxatilis var. tenuifolia, a widespread and common variety which is known
from the project area (Smith 1998). A voucher specimen of this species was collected.
No other sensitive plant species were observed or are expected to occur along the pipeline route.
4.2
Wildlife
Table 4 includes those sensitive wildlife species observed during the 2009-2010 MRS/SAIC surveys.
Table 4 updates information in Table 4.5.3-4 from the DEIR, which included the list of those sensitive
wildlife species that were known or had the potential to occur in the project area including the pipeline
route. In addition, a review of the most current CNDDB (CDFG 2010) was conducted to see if there had
been any changes in status or additions to the table.
Sensitive wildlife resources that were observed during the 2009-2010 surveys were added to Figures 2
through 7. These sensitive resources include several new sitings of sensitive avian species (yellow
warbler, yellow breasted chat, white-tailed kite, lark sparrow, California thrasher, and grasshopper
sparrow), raptor nest sites, observations of raptor foraging, and new records from the CNDDB search.
Yellow warblers (California species of special concern and species of local concern) and other species of
local concern such as warbling vireos and Wilson’s warbler were observed at most of the proposed
riparian crossings. White-tailed kites (Fully Protected) were observed at two locations near MP 2.5
during the non-nesting season. Grasshopper sparrow (CSC) and lark sparrow (LC) were recorded singing
and exhibiting territorial behavior at two locations in open grassy habitat. Raptor foraging was observed
in most of the open grassland adjacent to the pipeline route. Most of the raptors observations were of redtailed hawk and American kestrel, but also included golden eagle, northern harrier, white-tailed kite, and
red-shouldered hawk. Three raptor nests were observed during the surveys including one nest within Bell
Canyon (no confirmed nesting but may be used in the future) and another at MP 8.0 (confirmed raptor
nesting) both of which were located within 500 feet of the proposed pipeline route.
5.0
RECOMMENDATIONS
For most of the pipeline route, the pipeline installation would be located within or immediately
adjacent to existing roadways and would be bored under some of the major drainages along the
proposed route. However, the sensitive biological resources including wetlands, riparian
habitats, native grasslands, Santa Barbara honeysuckle, and nesting birds are present within or
adjacent to the proposed construction corridor and have the potential to be removed, damaged,
or disturbed during project activities. We recommend the pipeline route, construction method,
and/or timing of construction activities be modified in a way that avoids negative effects on
sensitive biological resources as follows:
5
6.0
•
Consider using the boring method for installation of the pipeline at additional locations
along the pipeline route to avoid removal of any wetlands and riparian resources within
the construction corridor.
•
Restrict the pipeline route, as much as feasible, in areas where Santa Barbara
honeysuckle is present to avoid removal or damage to individuals of this species.
•
Schedule construction activities to avoid the nesting season of birds, especially raptors
and species of special or local concern; CDFG typically requires a 500-buffer zone
between known raptor nest sites and construction activities.
REFERENCES
CDFG (California Department of Fish and Game). 2010.
(CNDDB). RareFind 3, Version 3.1.1 (Commercial copy).
California Natural Diversity Database
CNPS (California Native Plant Society). 2010. Online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of
California. http://cnps.web.aplus.net/cgi-bin/inv/inventory.cgi. Accessed April 2010.
Hickman, J.C. (ed.). 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Berkeley: University of
California Press.
Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California.
Prepared for the California Department of Fish and Game.
Meade, Daniel E. PhD. 1999. Monarch Butterfly Overwintering Sites in Santa Barbara County
California. Althouse and Meade Biological and Environmental Services. August.Santa Barbara
County. 2005. Final 2004-2005 Biological Survey Report of the Santa Barbara Ranch Property,
Gaviota Coast, California. Prepared for Santa Barbara County Department of Planning and
Building by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC). April.
Santa Barbara County. 1993. Santa Barbara County Planning Commission Staff Report. Environmental
Thresholds of Significance: Air Quality, Biological Resources, Safety, Schools, Visual
Resources and Housing. Staff Report Date: November 10, 1993. Initial Hearing Date: November
17, 1993.
Smith, C.F. 1998. A Flora of the Santa Barbara Region, California. Santa Barbara: Santa Barbara
Botanic Garden and Capra Press.
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TABLES
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Table 1. Timing of Biological Surveys for the Proposed Pipeline Route.
Date
Personnel
Summer 2009
July 8, 2009 L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
C.van der Heide, Tech. Support, SAIC
Ted Mullen, Senior Wildlife Biologist,
MRS
July 15,
2009
Survey Location
Began survey at MP 0, on the north side of Highway
101 at the entry hole for the directional drill that will
cross the Highway and tie into the Venoco Ellwood
Onshore Facility (near Bell Canyon). Survey
included MP 0 to 1.75 (boundary of Santa Barbara
Ranch); Tecolote Meadows, Eagle Canyon, MP 6.0
to 8.0 which included Canada del Capitan drainage .
Survey included revisit of MP 1 to 1.3 (including
Eagle Canyon and entry and exit holes for directional
drilling to cross Eagle Canyon); MP 3.2 to 6.0 which
included Gato Canyon, Llagas Creek and Canada del
Corral drainage.
Survey included the vicinity of the Venoco Ellwood
Onshore Facility (project start) and the portion of
Bell Canyon that is south of Highway 101 and west
of the facility; MP 8.0 to 8.4 (to the point where the
proposed route goes north off Calle Real to its
termination) which included Canada del Capitan
drainage; and a revisit of the entry hole and staging
area at MP 0, north side of Highway 101.
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
C.van der Heide, Tech. Support, SAIC
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
July 22,
2009
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
C.van der Heide, Tech. Support, SAIC
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Fall 2009
Nov. 4, 2009
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Nov. 6, 2009
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Nov. 18,
2009
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
MP 0 to 1.75 (boundary of Santa Barbara Ranch);
Tecolote Meadows, Eagle Canyon,
Eagle Canyon, Santa Barbara Ranch, and MP 5.8 to
7.1, bike path and Calle real at entrance to El Capitan
campground
Survey included MP 7 to 8.5 along Calle Real to the
termination; MP 1.8 to 2.8 (including Santa Barbara
Ranch, East Finger of Dos Pueblos Creek and Dos
Pueblos Creek); and MP 3.8 to 5.7 (including Las
Varas Ranch, Las Flores Canyon, and Canada del
Corral drainage.
Began survey at MP 0, on the north side of Highway
101 at the entry hole for the directional drill that will
cross the Highway and tie into the Venoco Ellwood
Onshore Facility (near Bell Canyon). Survey
included MP 0 to 0.75 (including Tecolote Creek
area); MP 1.75 to MP 3.2 (including Santa Barbara
Ranch, East Finger of Dos Pueblos Creek and Dos
Pueblos Creek).
Survey included MP 3.2 to 4.0; MP 0.0 (the vicinity
of the Venoco Ellwood Onshore Facility and Bell
Canyon of Highway 101 and west of the facility);
MP 1 to 1.3 (including Eagle Canyon and entry and
exit holes for directional drill to cross Eagle
Canyon); and 5.8 to 7.1, bike path and Calle Real at
entrance to El Capitan campground.
Survey included MP 3.2 to 5.8 (Las Varas Ranch);
and MP 7.1 to 8.4 (to the point where the proposed
route goes north off Calle Real to its termination).
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Nov. 19,
2009
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Nov. 23,
2009
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Nov. 24,
2009
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
9
Table 1. Timing of Biological Surveys for the Proposed Pipeline Route.
Date
Winter 2010
Dec. 18,
2009
March 11,
2010
Personnel
Survey Location
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Venadito Creek Drainage
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Surveys focused on riparian areas and drainages on
accessible properties including MP 0 to 1.75 (Eagle
Canyon); MP 2.8 to 3.1 (Dos Pueblos Canyon and
east Finger of Dos Pueblos Canyon); and MP 5.5 to
9.0.
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
Spring 2010
April 29,
2010
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Survey included MP 0.75 to 1.75 (including Eagle
Canyon and entry and exit holes for directional drill
to cross Eagle Canyon); MP 1.75 to 2.9 (Santa
Barbara Ranch); and 7.0 to 9.0, including 2
alternative terminus routes.
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
May 4, 2010
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Survey included the vicinity of the Venoco facility,
south side of Highway 101 adjacent to Bell Canyon;
MP 0 to 0.75 (north side of Highway 101 at the entry
hole for the directional drill and including Tecolote
Creek area); and 5.8 to 7.1, bike path and Calle Real
at entrance to El Capitan campground.
Kimi Paradis, Wildlife Biologist
May 7, 2010
May 11,
2010
May 12,
2010
L. Brown, Sr. Botanist, SAIC
Survey included MP 3.1 to 5.8 (including Dos
Pueblos Canyon, Shulte property and Las Varas
Ranch, Las Llagas Creek, Gata Canyon;and 5.8 to
7.1, bike path and Calle Real at entrance to El
Capitan campground.
Venadito Drainage, Las Flores Canyon, and Canada
del Capitan drainage
Canada del Capitan drainage
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Cletis England, Sr. Wildlife Biologist,
MRS
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
Ted Mullen, Sr. Wildlife Biologist, MRS
10
Table 2. Sensitive Plant Species Known or Have the Potential to Occur along the Proposed Pipeline
Route (Revised Table 4.5.3-3 from DEIR)
Species
Status
Blooming
Abronia maritima
Red sand-verbena
List 4.2
Feb. –
Nov.
Atriplex coulteri
Coulter's saltbush
List 1B.2
Mar. Oct.
Atriplex serenana
ssp. davidsonii
Davidson's saltbush
List 1B.2
Apr. –
Oct.
Baccharis
plummerae ssp.
plummerae
Plummer's
baccharis
Calystegia sepium
ssp. binghamiae
Santa Barbara
morning-glory
List 4.3
May –
Oct.
List 1A
Apr. May
Centromadia
(=Hemizonia)
parryi ssp.
australis
Southern tarplant
List 1B.1
May –
Nov.
Horkelia cuneata
ssp. puberula
Mesa horkelia
List 1B.1
Feb - July
Lasthenia conjugens
Contra Costa
goldfields
List 1B.1
Mar. June
Lasthenia glabrata
ssp.coulteri
Coulter’s goldfields
List 1B.1
Feb. June
Lonicera subspicata
List 1B.2
Description/Habitat
Spreading perennial, occurs on
sand dunes. Observed along
coastal bluffs and reported to occur
in the vicinity of the Ellwood
Marine Terminal.
Spreading perennial, occurs on
coastal bluffs. Reported to occur
on ocean bluffs near UCSB.
Annual herb, occurs in coastal
bluff scrub. May be extirpated
from Santa Barbara County,
historical occurrence at UCSB.
Shrub, may occur in coastal scrub.
Reported to occur at UCSB lagoon
and Coal Oil Point Reserve; also
known from slopes of coastal
canyons crossed by the route.
Perennial herb, occurs in marshes
and swamps. Presumed extinct,
noted to have historically occurred
in the project vicinity in a lagoon
near Ellwood.
Annual herb, occurs in moist
places such as margins of marshes
and mesic grasslands. Noted by
Smith (1998) to be common in
sandy fields near the ocean. This
species is present in the grassland
habitat south of the Ellwood
Marine Terminal and is reported to
occur on the south side of Highway
101 between Eagle Canyon and
Dos Pueblos Canyon.
Perennial herb, occurs in coastal
scrub, chaparral and cismontane
woodlands. Species reported from
about ½ mile north of the proposed
pipeline route, along Ferren Road,
north of Highway 101.
Annual herb, occurs in Isla Vista
open space and vernal pool
reserves; not expected to occur in
project area.
Annual herb, occurs in coastal salt
marshes. Reported from Goleta
Slough, not expected to occur in
project area.
Shrub, occurs in chaparral and
11
Potential to occur along the
pipeline route
Suitable habitat not present
in the proposed pipeline
route.
Not present in the proposed
pipeline route, but possible
on the shoreline bluffs.
Not present in the proposed
pipeline route, unlikely but
possible on the shoreline
bluffs.
Suitable habitat along the
proposed pipeline route, but
not found during seasonal
surveys.
Suitable habitat along the
proposed pipeline route, but
not found during seasonal
surveys.
Suitable habitat along the
proposed pipeline route, but
not found during seasonal
surveys.
Suitable habitat along the
proposed pipeline route, but
not found during seasonal
surveys.
Suitable habitat not present
along the pipeline route.
Suitable habitat not present
along the pipeline route.
Suitable habitat and species
Table 2. Sensitive Plant Species Known or Have the Potential to Occur along the Proposed Pipeline
Route (Revised Table 4.5.3-3 from DEIR)
Species
Status
Blooming
ssp. subspicata
Santa Barbara
honeysuckle
Description/Habitat
coastal scrub. Known to occur at
scattered locations in the project
vicinity, including the Santa
Barbara Ranch.
Perennial herb, occurs in coastal
dunes and coastal dune scrub.
Reported from dunes near Goleta
Slough. Not known to occur in
project area.
Perennial herb, occurs in coastal
bluff scrub and coastal scrub.
Reported from the project vicinity.
Malacothrix incana
Dunedelion
List 4.2
Malacothrix
saxatilis var.
saxatilis
Cliff malacothrix
List 4.2
Mar. –
Sept.
Scrophularia atrata
Black-flowered
figwort
List 1B.2
Mar. –
Sept.
Perennial herb, occurs in chaparral,
coastal scrub, coastal dunes and
riparian scrub. Reported from the
vicinity of the Ellwood Oil Field
and in dunes near Devereux
Slough and Coal Oil Point.
Suaeda esteroa
Estuary seablite
List 1B.2
May –
Oct.
Suaeda taxifolia
Woolly seablite
List 4.2
Jan. –
Dec.
Perennial herb, occurs in coastal
salt marshes. Historically reported
from Goleta Slough near the beach.
Shrub, occurs on margins of salt
marshes and in coastal bluff scrub.
Present on the Ellwood Mesa and
West Campus Bluffs Nature Park.
Potential to occur along the
pipeline route
present at several locations
along the pipeline route.
Suitable habitat not present
along the pipeline route
Suitable habitat along the
pipeline route, but not found
during seasonal surveys (M.
s. var. tenuifolia was found
and specimens collected to
confirm identification)..
Suitable habitat along the
pipeline route, but not found
during seasonal surveys
(more
common
S.
californica was found in the
coastal scrub habitat several
locations along route).
Suitable habitat not present
along the pipeline route.
Suitable habitat not present
along the pipeline route.
Sources: CDFG, 2010; CNPS, 2010; Smith, 1998.
Status: No Federal or State-listed Sensitive Plant Species are known to occur in the Proposed Project area.
California Native Plant Society:
1A
Presumed extinct in California
1B
Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere
4
Plants of limited distribution
CNPS threat code:
.1
Seriously endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened /
high degree and immediacy of threat).
.2
.3
Fairly endangered in California (20-80% occurrences threatened).
Not very endangered in California (<20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats
known).
12
Table 3. Plant Species Observed During Surveys
Scientific Name
TREES
Acacia sp.
Alnus rhombifolia
Eucalyptus sp.
Pinus sp.
Platanus racemosa
Populus fremontii
Quercus agrifolia
Schinus molle
SHRUBS/VINES
Artemisia californica
Atriplex lentiformis
Baccharis pilularis
Baccharis salicifolia
Clematis sp.
Ceanothus cuneatus
Hazardia squarrosa
Heteromeles arbutifolia
Isocoma menziesii
Lonicera subspicata var. subspicata
Lotus scoparius
Myoporum laetum
Nicotiana glauca
Rhamnus californica
Rhamnus crocea
Rhus integrifolia
Ribes sp,
Ricinus communis
Rosa californica
Rubus ursinus
Salix lasiolepis
Salvia leucophylla
Sambucus mexicana
Toxicodendron diversilobum
HERBS/FORBS/GRASSES
Ambrosia psilostachya
Anagallis arvensis
Artemisia douglasiana
Arundo donax
Asclepias fascicularis
Asphodelus fistulosa
Atriplex semibaccata
Avena barbata
Avena fatua
Brassica nigra
Bromus diandrus
Bromus hordeaceus
Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia
Carduus pycnocephalus
Carpobrotus edulis
Chenopodium murale
Conium maculatum
Convolvulus arvensis
Conyza bonariensis
Common Name
Native/Introduced
Acacia
White alder
Gum
Pine
Sycamore
Fremont cottonwood
Coast live oaks
Peruvian pepper-tree
Introduced/Ornamental
Native
Introduced/Ornamental
Introduced/Ornamental
Native
Native
Native
Introduced/Ornamental
California sagebrush
Quail bush
Coyote bush
Mule fat
Virgin’s bower
Common buckbrush
Saw-toothed goldenbush
Toyon
Coastal goldenbush
Santa Barbara honeysuckle
Deerweed
Myoporum
Tree tobacco
Coffeeberry
Red berry
Lemonade berry
Gooseberry
Castor-bean
California wild rose
Wild blackberry
Arroyo willow
Purple sage
Elderberry
Poison-oak
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native (CNPS List 1B)
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native
Native
Native
Introduced
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Western ragweed
Scarlet pimpernel
Mugwort
Giant reed
Milkweed
Asphodel
Australian saltbush
Slender wild oats
Common wild oats
Black mustard
Ripgut brome
Soft chess brome grass
Red brome
Wild morning-glory
Italian thistle
Ice plant
Goosefoot
Poison hemlock
Bindweed
South American horseweed
Native
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
13
Table 3. Plant Species Observed During Surveys
Scientific Name
Cortaderia jubata
Cynodon dactylon
Cyperus eragrostis
Epilobium ciliatum
Eschscholzia californica
Foeniculum vulgare
Gnaphalium luteoalbum
Hemizonia fasciculata
Heterotheca grandiflora
Hirschfeldia incana
Hordeum marinum ssp. gussoneanum
Hordeum murinum
Lactuca serriola
Lathyrus latifolius
Leymus condensatus
Lolium multiflorum
Lupinus bicolor
Malacothrix saxalilis ssp. tenuifolia
Malva parviflora
Marrubium vulgare
Medicago polymorpha
Melilotus albus
Melilotus indica
Nsasella pulchra
Pennisetum clandestinum
Pennisetum setaceum
Penstemon centranthifolius
Phalaris aquatica
Piptatherum milliaceum
Picris echioides
Plantago lanceolata
Raphanus sativus
Rumex crispus
Salvia spathacea
Scirpus californicus
Scrophularia californica
Senecio vulgaris
Silybum marianum
Sisyrinchium bellum
Solanum douglasii*
Sonchus asper
Sonchus oleraceus
Stachys bullata
Tragopogon porrifolius
Trifolium hirtum
Typha sp.
Urtica dioica
Verbena lasiostachys
Vicia sativa
Vinca major
Vulpia myuros
Xanthium strumarium
Common Name
Jubata grass
Bermuda grass
Nut sedge
Common willow herb
California poppy
Fennel
Cudweed
Tarweed
Telegraph weed
Perennial mustard
Mediterranean barley
Foxtail barley
Prickly lettuce
Common sweet pea
Giant wild-rye
Ryegrass
Annual lupine
White malacothrix
Mallow
Horehound
Bur-clover
White sweet clover
Yellow sweet clover
Purple needlegrass
Kikuyu grass
Fountain grass
Scarlet bugler
Harding grass
Smilo grass
Bristly ox-tongue
English plantain
Wild radish
Curly dock
Hummingbird sage
California tule
Figwort
Common groundsel
Milk-thistle
Blue-eyed-grass
Douglas’ nightshade
Prickly sow-thistle
Common sow-thistle
Hedge nettle
Salsify
Rose clover
Cattail
Stinging nettle
Vervain
Vetch
Periwinkle
Rattail fescue
Cocklebur
14
Native/Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Native
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native.
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Native
Native
Native
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Table 4. Sensitive Wildlife Species observed during the Pipeline Corridor Surveys
Common Name
Scientific Name
Status1
Fed/State
Monarch butterfly
Danaus plexippus
-/CSC
California red-legged frog
Rana aurora draytonii
T/CSC
California brown pelican
Pelecanus occidentalis
clifornicus
Northern harrier
Circus cyaneus
E/E
White-tailed kite
Elanus leucurus
Golden eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
Loggerhead shrike
Lanius ludovicianus
Coast horned lark
Eremophila alpestris actia
Lark sparrow
Chondestes grammacus
Grasshopper sparrow
Ammodramus savannarum
Yellow warbler
Dendroica petechia
-/CSC
SC/FP
-/LC
SC/CSC
-/CSC
-/LC
-/CSC
-/CSC
Occurrence
Invertebrates
Overwintering aggregations occur in eucalyptus woodlands at
several locations in the project area. The Ellwood Mesa
supports one of the largest overwintering populations of this
species and several other aggregations are located along the
coast of the pipeline route 100’s of individuals observed in
Canada del Corral drainage in November 2009 dozens observed
at Dos Pueblos Creek in November 2009.
Amphibians
This species has been reported from the Project vicinity.
Breeding populations occur in Tecolote, Eagle, and Bell Canyon
creeks, on the Sandpiper Golf Course, south of UPRR tracks and
just west of the EOF. There is a reported occurrence in Canada
del Corral, just upstream of the proposed pipeline crossing.
There is also a known occurrence to the northwest of the EMT
area in the main stem of Devereux Creek between Union Pacific
Railroad tracks and Highway 101. Recent CNDDB records
include sitings in Bell Canyon, Eagle Canyon, and Tecolote
Creeks.
Birds
Common mid-summer to spring immediately off-shore and
occasionally on beach in the Project vicinity. Breeds on
Channel Islands; observed in all seasons along beach habitats.
Regular fall, winter, and spring transient to grasslands and
open scrub habitats along South Coast of Santa Barbara
county. Observed foraging in grasslands in the Project area
on Dos Pueblos ranch and near MP 7.0 and 7.5 during the
MRS 2009-2010 surveys. Unlikely breeder in the area.
Commonly forages in grasslands in the project vicinity. Known
to nest in eucalyptus woodland around the EMT and near the
EOF. Reported to occur on the south side of Highway 101
between Eagle Canyon and Dos Pueblos Canyon, observed on
Santa Barbara Ranch during MRS 2009-2010 surveys.
Observed foraging in grasslands in the Project area on Dos
Pueblos ranch during the MRS 2009-2010 surveys.
Regularly observed resident of Project area; known to nest in
area, observed at Eagle Canyon during 2009 MRS surveys.
Occurs commonly in grasslands throughout project area in late
fall through late winter. Pairs were observed on Santa Barbara
Ranch during nesting season (SAIC 2005 unpublished field
notes).
Observed on Santa Barbara Ranch and Dos Pueblos Ranch
during spring 2009-2010 MRS surveys
Observed on Santa Barbara Ranch during spring 2009-2010
MRS surveys
Several pairs observed in Dos Pueblos Creek, Llagas Creek,
Las Varas Creek (MP 4), Gatos Canyon, the un-named
wetlands at MP 4.6 and Venadito Creek during spring 20092010 MRS surveys.
15
Table 4. Sensitive Wildlife Species observed during the Pipeline Corridor Surveys
Common Name
Scientific Name
Yellow breasted chat
Icteria virens
Tricolored backbird
Agelaius tricolor
Badger
Taxidea taxus
Status1
Fed/State
-/CSC
SC/CSC
-/CSC
Occurrence
Observed in Las Flores Canyon and Bell Canyon drainages in
spring during 2009-2010 MRS surveys
Uncommon and local breeder in Santa Barbara county. Unlikely
to nest but possibly could forage in small patches of freshwater
marsh habitat present in Devereux Creek and Open Space Area
and in mixed flocks with other Brewer’s blackbird and redwinged blackbird in grasslands near such habitats; an individual
tricolored observed at the Gato Canyon drainage during the
Spring 2010 surveys. .
Mammals
Diggings and foraging sign observed in grasslands in the Open
Space Area and on University lands to the east also along
pipeline router at MP 5 and 7.4. Current status in Project area
unknown, but probably low potential for occurring because of
proximity to developed areas and increased isolation.
Source: CDFG 2010.
1
Definitions:
Federal
E
T
SC
=
=
=
Listed as endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act
Listed or proposed for Federal listing as threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act
Species which information indicates may warrant listing but for which substantial biological information
to support a proposed rule is lacking
State
E
CSC
PT
FP
LC
=
=
=
=
=
Listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act
Species of special concern in California
Proposed for listing as threatened in California under the California Endangered Species Act
Fully Protected under the California Endangered Species Act
Local Concern
16
Table 5. Drainages, Streams and Wetlands Along the Proposed Pipeline Route (East to West)
(Revised Table 4.5.3-1 from DEIR)
Drainage Name
Bell Canyon
Tecolote Canyon
Unnamed drainage #1
Eagle Canyon
Unnamed drainage #2
Unnamed drainage #3
East tributary to Dos
Pueblos Canyon
Dos Pueblos Canyon
and unnamed tributary
to Dos Pueblos
Canyon (roadside
drainage)
Unnamed drainage
(unlabeled willow
riparian area east of
Las Varas, Figure 4,
Plate 5)
Las Varas Canyon
Wetland at culvert
under 101 (Figure 5,
Plate 6)
Unnamed wetland
Gato Canyon
Unnamed drainage #4,
Habitats Present
Riparian woodland with willows, sycamores and
coast live oaks; giant reed (Arundo donax)
reported as abundant in the past, but few
individuals present near the Ellwood Marine
Terminal at time of surveys, permanent water
present.
Riparian woodland dominated by coast live oaks
with willows and sycamores, no permanent
water present.
Willows, no permanent water present, no
wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland dominated by willows and
dense herbaceous understory, permanent water
present.
Few willows, no permanent water present, no
wetland vegetation.
Few willows, no permanent water present, no
wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland with coast live oaks and
willows and dense herbaceous understory,
permanent water present, no wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland with willows, sycamores,
coast live oaks, and dense herbaceous
understory; wetland vegetation on lower edges
of stream banks, permanent water present in
creek; large sycamores (possible heritage trees)
within roadside drainage and wetland vegetation
on road slope at the western extent of the
drainage).
Few willows and weedy species including large
patch of iceplant, no permanent water present,
no wetland vegetation, surrounded by
agriculture.
Sensitive Resources Present
Tidewater goby, California redlegged frog, yellow warbler, yellowbreasted chat, and riparian bird
nesting habitat.
Tidewater goby, California redlegged frog, monarch butterfly
aggregation area, yellow warbler, and
riparian bird nesting habitat.
Riparian bird nesting habitat.
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat; tidewater goby, California
red-legged frog present downstream
of project area.
None known or expected.
None known or expected.
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat; southwestern pond turtle
downstream of project area.
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat, southwestern pond turtle;
several wood rat nests observed in
understory of roadside drainage;
raptor nest observed upstream of
project area; California red-legged
frog downstream of project area.
None known or expected.
Willows and weedy species, no permanent water
present, no wetland vegetation, avocado orchard
on both sides of stream..
Small patch of willows and cattails with flowing
water (likely irrigation run off).
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat.
Dominated by willows and cattails interspersed
with weedy areas of kikuyu grass and fennel.
Riparian woodland dominated with sycamores,
coast live oaks, and willows, no permanent
water present.
Coyote brush scrub, no permanent water
present, no wetland vegetation.
Yellow warbler, riparian and wetland
bird nesting habitat.
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat.
17
None known or expected.
None known or expected.
Table 5. Drainages, Streams and Wetlands Along the Proposed Pipeline Route (East to West)
(Revised Table 4.5.3-1 from DEIR)
Drainage Name
Las Llagas Canyon
Habitats Present
Riparian woodland with coast live oaks, willows
and eucalyptus.
Unnamed drainage #5,
joins Las Llagas
downstream of
Highway 101
Drainage Area #6
Coast live oaks, eucalyptus and pines with
willow riparian habitat, no permanent water
present.
Canada de la
Destiladera
Unnamed drainage #7
Canada del Capitan
Unnamed drainage #8
Canada del Corral
(and small roadside
drainage east of
stream).
Canada del Venadito
Wetland area with sedges; appears to be
supported by irrigation runoff.
Riparian woodland with coast live oaks and
willows, no permanent water present
Coyote brush scrub, no permanent water
present, no wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland with sycamores, coast live
oaks, and pines, permanent water present, no
wetland vegetation.
Willows and coyote brush scrub habitat with
areas of dense weeds, no permanent water
present, no wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland dominated by willows with
sycamores, coast live oaks and dense herbaceous
understory, no permanent water present, no
wetland vegetation.
Riparian woodland dominated by willows and
dense herbaceous understory, no permanent
water present, no wetland vegetation.
18
Sensitive Resources Present
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat; Monarchs observed during
2007 field visit.
Riparian bird nesting habitat;
Monarchs observed during 2007 field
visit.
Potential wetland.
Riparian bird nesting habitat and
Santa Barbara honeysuckle present.
None known or expected.
Riparian bird nesting habitat and
California red-legged frog in stream;
Santa Barbara honeysuckle present
near road; Monarch roosting site
downstream of Highway 101.
Scrub nesting habitat for birds.
Yellow-breasted chat, riparian bird
nesting habitat. California redlegged frog is reported upstream of
the project area (at confluence with
Las Flores Canyon, CDFG 2010); a
Monarch butterfly aggregation site is
reported by Meade (1999) in north
of the proposed project area.
Yellow warbler, riparian bird nesting
habitat.
FIGURES
19
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20
Plate
10A
Plate 10
Plate 9
Plate 8
Plate 7
Plate 6
Plate 5
Plate 4
Plate 3
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_1_overview.mxd
Plate 2
Plate 1
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Figure 1. Overview of the Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Plate Boundary
Canyons and Drainages
0
1,250 2,500
5,000
7,500
10,000
Feet
´
Red-tailed hawk
Raptor foraging habitat
Unnamed
Drainage #1
Red-shouldered hawk
ren
Far
ad
Ro
ea d
Tecolote Canyon
American Kestrel
Bell Canyon
Red-tailed hawk
Raptor foraging habitat
!
(
Red-tailed hawk
California red-legged frog
Tidewater goby
Raptor Nest
!
(
j
k
Bell Canyon
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_2.mxd
erh
ke
´
Plate 1
Yellow warbler
California red-legged frog
Tidewater goby
Yellow-breasted chat
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Habitat Types
Sensitive Resources
( Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat !
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 2. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Coyote Brush Scrub
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Non-native Grassland
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Coastal Sage Scrub
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded on this
figure were observed by MRS or SAIC biologists during May
2010 or previous surveys.
Plate 2
American kestrel
White-tailed kite
American kestrel
White-tailed kite
Horned lark
Lark sparrow
Raptor foraging habitat
Greater Roadrunner
Raptor foraging habitat
!
(
´
Red-tailed hawk (2 pairs)
Eagle Canyon
!
(
Unnamed
Drainage #2
Raptor foraging habitat
Loggerhead
shrike
Unnamed
Drainage #1
Plate 3
Farren Road
California red-legged frog
Tidewater goby
Yellow warbler
on
Cany
!
(
White-tailed kite (2)
Red-shouldered hawk
Raptor foraging habitat
Lark sparrow (pair)
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_3.mxd
Red-tailed hawk (3)
Red-tailed hawk (pair)
Unnamed
Drainage #3
Grasshopper sparrow
Lark sparrow
American
kestrel
Raptor foraging habitat
Grasshopper sparrow
Unnamed
Drainage #2
!
(
´
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Sensitive Resources
Habitat Types
! Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat (
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 3. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Coyote Brush Scrub
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Non-native Grassland
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Coastal Sage Scrub
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded on this
figure were observed by MRS or SAIC biologists during May
2010 or previous surveys.
Ameri
White
Plate 4
Raptor Nest
Yellow warbler
Dos Pueblos
k Canyon
Southwestern
pond turtle
´
Unamed Drainage
Raptor foraging habitat
Yellow warbler
Wood rat nests
Tributary to
Dos Pueblos Canyon
Herbaceous wetland
White-tailed kite (2)
Red-tailed hawk(3)
Raptor foraging habitat
California red-legged frog
Southwestern
pond turtle
White-tailed kite
Plate 5
Yellow warbler
Sycamores
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_4.mxd
Las Varas Canyon
Red-tailed hawk
´
Monarch butterfly
roost
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Habitat Types
Sensitive Resources
( Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat !
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 4. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Coyote Brush Scrub
!
(
Coastal Sage Scrub
Non-native Grassland
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded
on this figure were observed by MRS or SAIC
biologists during May 2010 or previous surveys.
´
Plate 6
Northern harrier
Golden eagle
Gato Canyon
American kestrel
Yellow warbler
Raptor foraging habitat
Yellow warbler
Badger dig
Cattail
wetland
American kestrel
bird nesting habitat
!
(
Small wetland at culvert
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_5.mxd
Plate 7
´
Red-shouldered hawk
Las Llagas Canyon
Unnamed
Drainage #5
Drainage
Area #6
Raptor foraging habitat
Yellow warbler
Raptor foraging habitat
Unnamed
Drainage #4
American kestrel
American kestrel
Badger dig
!
(
American kestrel (pair)
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Sensitive Resources
Habitat Types
( Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat !
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 5. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Coyote Brush Scrub
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Non-native Grassland
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Coastal Sage Scrub
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded on this
figure were observed by MRS or SAIC biologists during May
2010 or previous surveys.
Canada de la
Destiladera
itat
Red-tailed hawk (2)
Unnamed
Drainage #7
Raptor foraging habitat
Red-shouldered hawk
Drainage
Area #6
Red-tailed hawks (2)
!
(
Red-tailed hawk (3)
Northern harrier
Plate 9
Unnamed
Drainage #8
Raptor foraging habitat
Canada del Capitan
Red-shouldered hawk
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_6.mxd
in g h a b
´
k Raptor Nest
Plate 8
!
(
Cliff swallow colony
(under bridge)
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Habitat Types
Sensitive Resources
( Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat !
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 6. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Raptor foraging habitat
´
!
(
!
(
Monarch
butterfly
roost
Coyote Brush Scrub
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Non-native Grassland
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Coastal Sage Scrub
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded on this
figure were observed by MRS or SAIC biologists during May
2010 or previous surveys.
Un n a
Drain
Plate 10
California red-legged frog
Red-tailed hawk (pair)
!
(
Raptor Nest
Canada del Corral
Raptor foraging habitat
Yellow-breasted chat
Northern harrier
Red-tailed hawk
American kestrel
Raptor foraging habitat
k
American kestrel (pair)
´
Plate 10A
T:\BIOLOGY\BIO_Ellwood\Projects\2010 Habitat Map Figures- Version 2\BIO_EllwoodVenoco_2010_Figure_7.mxd
Canada del Venadito
Northern Harrier
American Kestrel
Pepper Tree
Canada del
Raptor foraging habitat
Oak
Elderberry
Yellow warbler
Project Components
Proposed Pipeline Route
Boring and Staging Areas
Canyons and Drainages
0
250
500
Habitat Types
Sensitive Resources
( Badger Dig
Bird Nesting Habitat !
Historic Turkey
Vulture Roost
1,000
!
( Monarch Roosting Site
!
( Santa Barbara honeysuckle
1,500
Figure 7. Habitat Types and Sensitive Resources along the Proposed Pipeline Route
2,000
Feet
Coyote Brush Scrub
Oak Sycamore Riparian
Eucalyptus
Non-native Grassland
Willow Riparian
Coast live oaks
Coastal Sage Scrub
Native Grasslands
Degraded/ Weedy Habitat
Oak Willow Riparian
Wetland
Sycamores
Road/ Developed
Agriculture/ Landscape
NOTE: Sensitive plant and wildlife resources recorded on this
figure were observed by MRS or SAIC biologists during May
2010 or previous surveys.