08 - Laserfiche WebLink

INITAL STUDY/NEGATIVE DECLARATION REQUIREMENTS Task 8: Conduct Alameda Whipsnake Pre-construction Surveys(Measure BIO-1) As described in the IS/MND, these surveys are only required in areas identified as "having high potential for whipsnake occurrence". However, the IS/MND does not identify if areas with high potential for whipsnake occur on or adjacent to the project site. Additionally, based on a preliminary evaluation of aerial photography,it appears that such habitat may not be present on or adjacent to the project site. Therefore, our recommended approach is to conduct an Alameda whipsnake habitat evaluation. This would include conducting a reconnaissance-level survey of the project site and describing the habitats present within and adjacent to the site. Any habitats having high potential for whipsnake occurrence will be identified. If it is found that suitable whipsnake habitat does not occur on or adjacent to the project site,then it would not be necessary to implement the avoidance measures specified in the IS/MND. The results of the whipsnake habitat evaluation will be present in a technical memorandum. Task 9: Preconstruction Nesting Bird Surveys(Measure BIO-2) This measure requires that during the nesting season(February through August) a preconstruction nesting bird survey be conducted within 10 days. The survey area will include the disturbance area and a surrounding 250 feet area. Please see Assumptions, below, for an estimate of the required number of surveys. Task 10: Burrowing Owl and Raptor Surveys(Measure BIO-3) This measure requires that surveys for western burrowing owls and raptors be conducted within 250 feet of areas of disturbance. The raptor surveys would be conducted concurrently with Task 9 (Preconstruction Nesting Bird Surveys). A site-specific evaluation has not been conducted to determine if suitable burrowing owl habitat occurs within 250 feet of areas of disturbance. Therefore, for the purposes of the this scope, a burrowing owl habitat evaluation would first be conducted to map all areas within 250 feet of the disturbance area that provide suitable burrowing owl habitat. Surveys would then be conducted at all identified burrowing owl habitat areas. The accepted CDFG burrowing survey methodology (CDFG 2012) includes conducting three separate surveys (each separated by three weeks) within the peak breeding season (April 15 - July 15). A report documenting the findings of the survey will be prepared.