WHITTIER NARROWS WATER RECLAMATION PLANT DIVERSION

Transcription

1 Draft WHITTIER NARROWS WATER RECLAMATION PLANT DIVERSION Initial Study Prepared for July 2018 Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County

2

3 Draft WHITTIER NARROWS WATER RECLAMATION PLANT DIVERSION Initial Study Prepared for July 2018 Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County 626 Wilshire Boulevard Suite 1100 Los Angeles, CA Bend Camarillo Delray Beach Destin Irvine Los Angeles Miami Oakland Orlando Pasadena Petaluma Portland Sacramento San Diego San Francisco Santa Monica Sarasota Seattle Sunrise Tampa

4 OUR COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY ESA helps a variety of public and private sector clients plan and prepare for climate change and emerging regulations that limit GHG emissions. ESA is a registered assessor with the California Climate Action Registry, a Climate Leader, and founding reporter for the Climate Registry. ESA is also a corporate member of the U.S. Green Building Council and the Business Council on Climate Change (BC3). Internally, ESA has adopted a Sustainability Vision and Policy Statement and a plan to reduce waste and energy within our operations. This document was produced using recycled paper.

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Initial Study Page ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST... 1 Initial Study... 1 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected... 4 Environmental Checklist... 5 Aesthetics... 5 Agricultural and Forest Resources... 6 Air Quality... 7 Biological Resources... 8 Cultural Resources Energy Geology, Soils, and Seismicity Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards and Hazardous Materials Hydrology and Water Quality Land Use and Land Use Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population and Housing Public Services Recreation Transportation and Traffic Tribal Cultural Resources Utilities and Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance Appendices A Figures Biological Resources Assessment 1 WNWRP s three discharge points: No. 001, No. 002 and No Tables 1 Existing and Proposed Discharge Volumes from WNWRP... 3 Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 1 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

6

7 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST Initial Study 1. Project Title: Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: County Sanitation District No. 2 of Los Angeles County 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Jodie Lanza, Project Location: Whittier, CA 5. Project Sponsor s Name and Address: County Sanitation District No. 2 of Los Angeles County 6. General Plan Designation(s): NA 7. Zoning: NA 8. Description of Project: The Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Sanitation Districts) serves the regional wastewater and solid waste management needs of Los Angeles County. The Sanitation Districts operate 10 water reclamation plants (WRPs) and the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant. Seventeen special districts that provide sewerage services in the metropolitan Los Angeles area are signatory to a Joint Outfall Agreement that provides for the regional, interconnected systems of facilities known as the Joint Outfall System (JOS). Under the Joint Outfall Agreement, Sanitation District No. 2 of the Los Angeles County (District) has been appointed managing authority over the JOS. The District is proposing to supply approximately 72acre-feet per year (AFY) (0.06 million gallons per day [mgd]) of treated wastewater to San Gabriel Valley Water Company (SGVWC) for non-potable uses, primarily including landscape irrigation. The District currently discharge approximately 6.12 mgd (10-year average from 2007 to 2016) to either the Rio Hondo or the San Gabriel River from Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant (WNWRP) from three different points of discharge. Table 1 summarizes the 10-year average discharge volumes for each point of discharge. Figure 1 shows WNWRP s three discharge points: No. 001, No. 002, and No The discharged recycled water flow to all three discharge points is used for groundwater recharge through percolation within either the Rio Hondo or San Gabriel River or connected spreading basins. The proposed project would reduce WNWRP treated wastewater discharges by approximately 1.1 percent (0.06 mgd of the 6.12 mgd), equivalent to 72 AFY from the over 7,000 AFY produced. Approximately 27 percent of the 72 AFY would be reduced from the San Gabriel River discharges; 73 percent from the Rio Hondo watershed. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 1 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

8 UV 60 WN004!( Path: U:\GIS\GIS\Projects\17xxxx\D170647_05_Whittier_Narrows_Diversion\03_MXDs_Projects\InitialStudy\Fig1_DischargeLocations_ mxd, sgeissler 7/30/2018 N N San Gabriel Blvd 0 2,000 Feet Rosemead Blvd WN002!( WN001!(!( Discharge Point SOURCE: ESRI Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Figure 1 Discharge Locations

9 Environmental Checklist TABLE 1 EXISTING AND PROPOSED DISCHARGE VOLUMES FROM WNWRP Discharge Point Units Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Yearly Avg WN001 (San Gabriel River) WN002 (Zone 1 Ditch) 10-YR Avg w/project a 10-YR Avg w/project a mgd mgd mgd mgd WN004 (Rio Hondo) Total Discharged Flow 10-YR Avg w/project a 10-YR Avg w/project a mgd mgd mgd mgd Proposed Reduction mgd Notes a 10-Year Average taken from The recycled water would be directed to SGVWC and a new South El Monte Extension of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District s recycled water system. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting. (Briefly describe the project s surroundings.) The project is in an urban environment near the Whittier Narrows Recreation Facility in Los Angeles. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement.) SWRCB California Water Code Section 1211 Wastewater Change Petition 11. Have California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project area requested consultation pursuant to Public Resources Code section ? If so, has consultation begun? Yes, under Assembly Bill 52, the District prepared and mailed notification letters to California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project area on June 28, The Gabrieleño Band of Mission Indians responded on July 3, 2018, to notify the District that no consultation is needed. No additional replies or requests for consultation have been received to date. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 3 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

10 4

11 Environmental Checklist Environmental Checklist Aesthetics Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 1. AESTHETICS Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect daytime or nighttime views in the area? Discussion a) The proposed project would entail a 1.1 percent reduction of treated wastewater discharge from the WNWRP. The treated wastewater discharge would be beneficially reused by the SGVWC for landscape irrigation. The reduction in treated wastewater discharge would be visibly indistinguishable and, therefore, have no impact to scenic vistas. b) The proposed change in treated wastewater discharge would not be large enough to impact scenic resources negatively and as such, would have no impact. c) The proposed change in treated wastewater discharge would be visibly indistinguishable and, therefore, have no impact to visual character or quality of the site or its surroundings. d) The proposed project would not create any light or glare affecting daytime or nighttime views in the area. The project would have no impact to light or glare. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 5 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

12 Environmental Checklist Agricultural and Forest Resources Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 2. AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))? d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? Discussion a) The proposed project would not convert any farmland identified by the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency to non-agricultural use. The project would have no impact in this regard. b) The proposed project would not conflict with any existing zoning for agricultural uses or affect any property under a Williamson Act contract. The current water flow does not traverse any agricultural land or Williamson Act contract areas and the change in treated wastewater discharge would not change the path of the current water flow. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would have no impact to zoning of forested land or timberland zones. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not result in loss of any forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use. No land uses would be affected. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would not result in changes to the existing environment that would convert farmlands or forest lands to other uses. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 6 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

13 Environmental Checklist Air Quality Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 3. AIR QUALITY Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? Discussion a) The proposed project would reduce treated wastewater discharges to support landscape irrigation currently irrigated with potable water. This recycled water project would not affect air quality plans. No impact would occur. b) No construction is proposed by the project and no change to treatment operations would occur. Recycled water would be pumped to SGVWC utilizing an existing pump station for beneficial use, replacing potable water currently used for the purpose. The proposed project would not change air emissions associated with operating the WNWRP and would not violate any air quality standard or contribute to an existing or projected air quality violation. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not create any cumulative increase of any pollutant for which the region is non-attainment under ruling ambient air quality standards. The reduction in treated wastewater discharges would not create any change to air quality. No impact would occur. d) The project would not produce any pollutants and would not expose sensitive receptors to any pollutant concentrations. No impact would occur. e) The reduction in treated wastewater discharge would not create odors of any kind. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 7 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

14 Environmental Checklist Biological Resources Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? Discussion a) The proposed project would reduce discharges from the WNWRP into the Rio Hondo (WN004 and WN002) and the San Gabriel River (WN001) by 1.1 percent. As summarized in the Biological Resources Assessment Memorandum (Appendix A), the Rio Hondo supports sensitive habitats including willow thickets that may support sensitive avian species including the least Bell s vireo. Currently dry weather flows in the channel, including discharge from the WNWRP (WN002and WN004), flow to the Bosque del Rio Hondo as shown on Figure 1. Surface flows in the channel include dry weather runoff from the watershed and periodic conservation flow deliveries from the upstream reservoirs. Storm drains contribute urban runoff upstream of the WNWRP and on the west side of the channel as shown in Figure 2 of Appendix A. The contributions from these sources provide a water source for the habitat at this location. These surface flows support a riparian corridor and provide a water source for the existing habitat. The District plans to reduce discharges by 1.1% totaling 72 afy spread across the three discharge points. Currently the three discharge points experience periods of zero discharge for weeks at a time. Since the reductions are small, the proposed future reductions would not be expected to measurably reduce native riparian vegetation in Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 8 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

15 Environmental Checklist areas currently watered by the discharges. As described in Appendix A, the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River support willow woodland and non-native woodland. In addition, the Bosque del Rio Hondo contains large areas of non-native invasive plants including Arundo donax as does the San Gabriel River. As noted in Table 2 of Appendix A, several bird species utilize the channel and neighboring habitat for foraging and nesting, including the least Bell s vireo. The surrounding upland area is within the coastal California gnatcatcher Critical Habitat and may be capable of supporting the listed species. No native aquatic species are known to occur in the Rio Hondo or San Gabriel River. As summarized in Table 1, reduction of 1.1 percent from the WNWRP discharge No. 004 would result in a reduction of 0.03 mgd, roughly equivalent to cubic feet per second (cfs). The average flow from discharge No. 004 is 3.74 mgd, roughly equivalent to 6.94 cfs. This is a 10-year annual average taken from On a daily basis, the flow from discharge No. 004 fluctuates with the water use patterns of the community, reducing substantially in the nighttime. When considering the wetted perimeter of the channel over the course of a single day, the 1.1 percent average flow reduction would be such a small change that it is below the scale of less than 0.1 cfs accuracy flood control models use to predict impacts to velocity and depth in a channel. Furthermore, under existing conditions the discharge point No. 004 is periodically discontinued (approximately 27 percent of the time) when the discharge points No. 001 or 002 are used. During this time under existing conditions, discharge to the Rio Hondo is eliminated or substantially reduced. The proposed project would not change this condition. Similarly, when discharge point No. 004 is used (73 percent of the time), the areas downstream of discharge stations Nos. 001 and 002 frequently dry up. Currently, most of the surface flow that is not used by vegetation percolates into the ground. The existing vegetation would not experience a measureable reduction in availability to water based on reduced depth or wetted area. Surface flows and ponding would still occur within the channel near the storm drains, within the Bosque, and San Gabriel River as frequently and with the same degree of diurnal variability as under existing conditions. The Rio Hondo downstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam is a concrete lined channel all the way to the estuary. The WNWRP discharges are generally contained within the Bosque or diverted into the spreading basins and do not proceed any further down the Rio Hondo. Reduction of 1.1 percent of the WNWRP discharge would not change any flows downstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam. Therefore, any biological resources in the channel downstream of Whittier Dam would experience no change from existing conditions. At this scale of treated wastewater discharge reduction, riparian habitat relying on the flow in the channel would not experience any perceptible change from the existing highly variable condition. The reduction of 1.1 percent of discharge into the Rio Hondo and San Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 9 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

16 Environmental Checklist Gabriel River would not have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. No impact would occur. b) As described above, the proposed reduction of 1.1 percent of discharge into the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River would not have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The proposed project would have no discernable effect on instream flows or riparian habitat. No impact would occur. c) As described above, the proposed reduction of 1.1 percent of discharge into the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River would not have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means. No impact would occur. d) As described above, the proposed reduction of 1.1 percent of discharge into the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River would not interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance. No impact would occur. f) The proposed project would not conflict with any conservation plans, local, regional, or statewide. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 10 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

17 Environmental Checklist Cultural Resources Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 5. CULTURAL RESOURCES Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in ? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to ? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Discussion a) The proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. The proposed project would reduce the treated wastewater discharge by 1.1 percent. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource. The proposed project would reduce the treated wastewater discharge by 1.1 percent. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not directly or indirectly destroy any paleontological resources, sites, or unique geologic features, the reduction to treated wastewater discharge would be visibly indiscernible. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 11 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

18 Environmental Checklist Energy Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporation No ENERGY Would the project: a) Result in a substantial increase in overall or per capita energy consumption? b) Result in wasteful or unnecessary consumption of energy? c) Require or result in the construction of new sources of energy supplies or additional energy infrastructure capacity the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Conflict with applicable energy efficiency policies or standards? Discussion a) The proposed project would not modify treatment process or change the energy demands from existing conditions. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not modify treatment process or change the energy demands from existing conditions. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not require any construction. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not conflict with energy efficiency policies. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 12 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

19 Environmental Checklist Geology, Soils, and Seismicity Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 6. GEOLOGY and Soils Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? (Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42.) ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? Discussion a.i) The proposed project would not expose people or structures to rupture of a known earthquake fault. No impact would occur. a.ii) The proposed project would not cause or illicit any seismic ground shaking. No impact would occur. a.iii) The reduction of 72 acre-feet/year of treated wastewater would not contribute to any seismic-related ground failure, including, liquefaction. No impact would occur. a.iv) The proposed project would not take place anywhere near a landslide prone area, nor could reducing the discharge of treated wastewater from the wastewater treatment plant by 1.1 percent cause a landslide. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would only cause less or equal soil erosion to what is already happening naturally from the river flows. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project does not take place on unstable soil nor would the project contribute to the instability of the soil surrounding the project site. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 13 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

20 Environmental Checklist d) The proposed project does not take place on expansive soils, no risk to life or property would result from the project. No impact would occur. e) No wastewater will be generated from the proposed project, in turn, the soil will not have to support use of any wastewater disposal systems as result of the project. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 14 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

21 Environmental Checklist Greenhouse Gas Emissions Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 7. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Discussion a) The project would not generate any greenhouse gas emissions. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not conflict with any greenhouse gas plans, policies, or regulations. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 15 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

22 Environmental Checklist Hazards and Hazardous Materials Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? Discussion a) The proposed project would not create a hazard through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. No changes to the existing treatment operations would occur except that treated wastewater discharge would be pumped to SGVWC for landscape irrigation, replacing potable water currently used. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not create any hazards nor would it have increase potential of upsets or accidental conditions that would result in the release of hazardous materials. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not create any hazards within a quarter mile of an existing or proposed school. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not affect any hazardous sites listed on the Department of Toxic Substances Control s Cortese List. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would not be located within an airport land use plan, or within two miles of an airport, and the project would not result in a safety hazard for people residing or Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 16 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

23 Environmental Checklist working in the project area because the change in treated wastewater discharge will be so small that it won t illicit any noticeable change. No impact would occur. f) The proposed project would not be located within the vicinity of a private air strip and the reduced treated wastewater discharge would not pose as a hazard for people working or residing in the area. No impact would occur. g) The proposed project would not interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. No impact would occur. h) The proposed project does not reduce the treated wastewater discharge enough to cause risk for loss, injury or death from wildfire. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 17 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

24 Environmental Checklist Hydrology and Water Quality Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner that would result in flooding on- or off-site? e) Create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures that would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? Discussion a) The proposed project would not violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements. The treated wastewater discharge use would be covered under Title 22 regulations. The current discharge water quality would not be affected. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project s treated wastewater discharge reduction of 72 acre-feet/year would not deplete groundwater supplies. The treated wastewater would replace potable water currently used for landscaping. The project would have no measurable effect to groundwater levels that could affect local pumpers. No impact would occur. c) The reduction of treated wastewater discharge would not alter the drainage pattern of the site or surrounding area. No substation erosion or siltation on or off site would occur. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 18 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

25 Environmental Checklist d) The proposed project would not alter the drainage pattern of the site or surrounding area, nor the amount of surface runoff, and no flooding would occur as a result of the proposed project on or off site. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would not create any run off water, nor would it contribute to exceeding the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems. No impact would occur. f) The proposed project would not affect the quality of treated wastewater discharged to the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River. No impact would occur. g) The proposed project does not entail construction of any kind, such as housing. No impact would occur. h) The proposed project would not impede or re-direct flood flows. The proposed project would not cause any erosion or water pathway changes. No impact would occur. i) The proposed project would not establish any new infrastructure that would increase a flooding hazard. No impact would occur. j) The proposed project would have no effect on seiche, tsunami, or mudflows. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 19 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

26 Environmental Checklist Land Use and Land Use Planning Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 10. LAND USE AND LAND USE PLANNING Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? Discussion a) The project site would not physically divide an established community. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation of any kind. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plans or natural community conservation plans. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 20 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

27 Environmental Checklist Mineral Resources Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 11. MINERAL RESOURCES Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan? Discussion a) The proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of known mineral resources that would be of value to the region and residents of the state because the area is currently not available for mining. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site per local general plans or land use plans. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 21 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

28 Environmental Checklist Noise Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 12. NOISE Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of, noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project located in the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? Discussion a) No construction or change operations would occur other than pumping water to SGVWC from an existing pump station rather than discharging it to the river. The proposed project would not add noise to the surrounding project area. There would be no exposure of persons to noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan, noise ordinance, or applicable standard of other agencies. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not create any groundborne vibration or noise level and in turn would not expose persons to excessive groundborne vibration or noise levels. No impact would occur. c) The project would not add any ambient noise to the project vicinity. No impact would occur. d) The project would not cause any ambient noise in excess of what the current site creates. No impact would occur. e) The project is not located within an airport land use plan, so no excess noise would occur in the vicinity of an airport. No impact would occur. f) The project is not located within a private airstrip, so no excess noise would occur in the vicinity of a private airstrip. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 22 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

29 Environmental Checklist Population and Housing Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 13. POPULATION AND HOUSING Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? Discussion a) The beneficial use of 72 AFY of recycled water would not induce population growth directly or indirectly as it is intended to offset and conserve potable water. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not displace any housing. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not displace anyone. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 23 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

30 Environmental Checklist Public Services Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 14. PUBLIC SERVICES Would the project: a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered government facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: i) Fire protection? ii) Police protection? iii) Schools? iv) Parks? v) Other public facilities? Discussion a.i) The proposed project would not adversely impact any governmental facilities, nor create the need for new government facilities, particularly fire protection services. No impact would occur. a.ii) The proposed project would not adversely impact any governmental facilities, nor create the need for new government facilities, particularly police protective services. No impact would occur. a.iii) The proposed project would not adversely impact any governmental facilities, nor create the need for new government facilities, particularly school services. No impact would occur. a.iv) The proposed project would not adversely impact any governmental facilities, nor create the need for new government facilities, particularly park services. No impact would occur. a.v) The proposed project would not adversely impact any governmental facilities, nor create the need for new government facilities including any public facilities. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 24 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

31 Environmental Checklist Recreation Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 15. RECREATION: a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? Discussion a) The proposed project would not increase use of existing neighborhood or regional parks, or recreation facilities of any kind in the area. No impact would occur. b) The project does not include any recreational facilities, causing no adverse physical effect on the environment. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 25 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

32 Environmental Checklist Transportation and Traffic Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 16. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? Discussion a) The proposed project would not conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy covering the performance of the circulation system including mass transit and non-motorized travel. No construction would occur that could affect intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, or mass transit. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not involve any new traffic trips. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not affect air traffic patterns. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not affect roadway designs. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would not affect emergency access. No impact would occur. f) The proposed project would not affect the safety or performance of any adopted plans covering transportation. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 26 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

33 Environmental Checklist Tribal Cultural Resources Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 17. Tribal Cultural Resources Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is: a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section (k), or b) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section , the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe. Discussion a) Per Assembly Bill 52, the District prepared and mailed notification letters to California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project area on June 28, The Gabrieleño Band of Mission Indians responded on July 3, 2018, to notify the District that no consultation is needed. No additional replies or requests for consultation have been received to date. The proposed project is not on current land that is eligible for listing in the in the California Register of Historical Resources nor the local register for historical resources as defined by Public Resources Code section (k). No impact would occur. b) The proposed project is not a resource determined by the lead agency to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 27 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

34 Environmental Checklist Utilities and Service Systems Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 18. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project s projected demand in addition to the provider s existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project s solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? Discussion a) The project would not modify any treatment or affect the water quality of the existing effluent. The project would be compliant with requirements applicable per the Regional Water Quality Control Board. No impact would occur. b) The proposed project would not require any construction. No impact would occur. c) The proposed project would not require any construction. No impact would occur. d) The proposed project would not require any new or expanded entitlements. The project would have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources. No impact would occur. e) The proposed project would be executed by a wastewater treatment provider, and as the reduction of treated wastewater discharge requires no demand from the wastewater treatment provider, they would be able to uphold their existing commitments. No impact would occur. f) The project will not generate solid waste and, in turn, would not require the solid waste disposal services of a landfill. No impact would occur. g) The project will not generate solid waste. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 28 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

35 Environmental Checklist Mandatory Findings of Significance Issues (and Supporting Information Sources): Potentially with Mitigation Incorporated No 19. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited but cumulatively considerable? ( Cumulatively considerable means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Discussion a) The 1.1 percent reduction in treated wastewater discharge would not reduce the extent or quality of habitat in the channel. The remaining 98.9 percent of the discharge would continue to proceed down the Rio Hondo channel to the Bosque del Rio Hondo and to the San Gabriel River, where it percolates into the groundwater basin similar to existing conditions. Wildlife would not be affected by the project. No impact would occur. b) Because the proposed project retains 98.9 percent of the baseline flows discharged from the Whittier Narrows WRP, there are no components that are cumulatively considerable. No impact would occur. c) The project will provide 1.1 percent of water for non-potable uses. The project has no negative impact on human beings. No impact would occur. Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion 29 ESA / D Initial Study July 2018 Preliminary Subject to Revision

36

37 Appendix A Biological Resources Assessment

38

39 626 Wilshire Boulevard Suite 1100 Los Angeles, CA phone fax biological resources assessment memorandum date July 30, 2018 to from subject Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County Dale Hameister, Senior Biologist, ESA Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion The Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Sanitation Districts) serve the regional wastewater and solid waste management needs of Los Angeles County. Seventeen special districts that provide sewerage services in the metropolitan Los Angeles area are signatory to a Joint Outfall Agreement that provides for the regional, interconnected systems of facilities known as the Joint Outfall System (JOS). The Sanitation Districts operate 10 water reclamation plants (WRPs) and the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant. One of the WRPs Whittier Narrows WRP discharges into the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River just above the Whittier Narrows Dam. Figure 1 shows the points of discharge (Discharge Stations No. 001, 002, and 004). This technical memorandum provides a biological resources assessment of the Rio Hondo and Bosque del Rio Hondo downstream of Discharge Stations No. 002 and 004 and San Gabriel River downstream of Discharge Station No ESA conducted reconnaissance-level surveys and vegetation mapping in the Bosque del Rio Hondo area downstream of Discharge Station No. 004, and performed a review of available literature pertaining to the overall study area that includes the Zone 1 Ditch downstream of Discharge Station 002 and areas downstream of Discharge Station No. 001 in the San Gabriel River. The report provides an overview of the existing conditions and biological resources within the study area. Proposed Project Description The Sanitation Districts are proposing to reduce discharges of tertiary-treated wastewater from the Whittier Narrows WRP Discharge Stations No. 001, 002, and 004 by 1.1 percent from the current 10-year annual average (taken from ) of 6.12 million gallons per day (MGD) to 6.06 MGD. The Sanitation Districts are not proposing to construct any new facilities. The proposed reuse of the tertiary-treated wastewater would be implemented by water supply agencies. The Sanitation Districts will continue to maintain the ability to discharge treated water at the same points of diversion but anticipate lesser quantities. 1

40 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Methodology Literature Review ESA reviewed recent documents and accessed standard reference sources and databases to gather information on the natural resources and special-status species known or likely to occur in the study area. The literature that was reviewed included the following: California Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Accessed February 26, United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Conservation (IPac) Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS). Accessed March 9, San Gabriel River Watershed Project to Reduce River Discharge in Support of Increased Recycled Water Reuse: Biological Resources Technical Memorandum (ESA). Letter Report dated July Field Survey The biological resources field survey included an approximately 230-acre study area comprising the Bosque Del Rio Hondo portion of the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area from the No. 004 Discharge Station from the Whittier Narrows WRP to Whittier Narrows Dam. Reconnaissance-level surveys focused primarily on mapping vegetation types and habitat quality within the soft-bottom segment of the Rio Hondo where significant riparian vegetation is present, as well as adjacent floodplain and upland habitats. Wildlife species observed during the surveys were documented and are provided in Attachment A. The surveys were conducted February 15 and 16, 2018, by ESA biologist Robert Sweet in the Bosque del Rio Hondo downstream (south) of San Gabriel Boulevard, and on June 13, 2018, by ESA biologist Dale Hameister in Rio Hondo upstream (north) of San Gabriel Boulevard. Vegetation and Habitat Mapping Vegetation communities were classified using A Manual of California Vegetation, 2 nd Ed. (Sawyer et al. 2009). The system of attributing classifications based typically on single or dual species dominance used in the Manual does not always provide specific nomenclature for communities dominated by non-native or exotic species, or for invasive vegetation where several species are co-dominant or where dominance varies considerably in small patches. Therefore, as a practical consideration, this study may sometimes identify non-native woodland and upland communities which exhibit dominance by multiple species, as noted below in the descriptions of plant communities. Plant communities and other unvegetated areas in the study area were delineated in the field using ArcGIS Collector and then digitized using ArcGIS. This mapping is shown on Figure 2. Vegetation mapping previously completed by Amec Foster Wheeler as a part of the San Gabriel River Adaptive Management Strategy (2018) was used to identify plant communities and land cover types for the habitat downstream of Discharge Stations No. 001 and 002. This mapping is shown in Figures 3 and 4. Habitat Assessment The quality of habitat for native wildlife was determined based on the abundance, health, and vigor of native plant communities; abundance and diversity of invasive plant species; and level of disturbance from homeless encampments, presence of substantial amounts of trash and debris, and the presence or absence of other important 2

41 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion habitat features, such as sand bars, unobstructed flowing water, native riparian vegetation, suitable perch sites for birds of prey, etc. Existing Conditions in the Study Areas The study area is surrounded by highly urbanized residential, commercial, and industrial land uses. The study area is within the Whittier Narrow Recreation Area (WNRA). The WNRA is a significant natural area and constitutes the western end of the Puente Hills Ecological Area (SEA) as recognized by the County of Los Angeles. The WNRA is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). USACE prepared a Whittier Narrows Master Plan in Recreation is very common in the vicinity of the WNRA and elsewhere along the waterways where access is permitted. A substantial amount of trash and foreign debris occurs in the Rio Hondo and the San Gabriel River. As such, the study area is highly disturbed and supports large areas of invasive plant species. The Zone 1 Ditch is an artificial channel through the WNRA that conveys water drawn from the San Gabriel River to the Rio Hondo River. The Zone 1 Ditch is operated and maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. Periodically, water deliveries are conveyed from the San Gabriel River to the Rio Hondo. For most of its length, the Zone 1 Ditch exhibits a soft bottom and earthen banks. However, some sections exhibit grouted riprap along the banks and riprap on the bottom. Some of the water conveyed through the channel may percolate into the ground and may support some of the vegetation adjacent to the channel. Vegetation around the channel is dominated by blue elderberry stands and the backwash area nearer the dam within the WNRA which feeds into the Bosque Del Rio Hondo exhibits patches of black willow thickets, some non-native woodland, giant reed breaks, and upland areas dominated by mustard and other disturbed scrub dominated by non-native weed species and non-native grasslands (ESA 2018.). Results for Portion of the Study Area in the Rio Hondo Plant Communities and Land Uses Each community and land use mapped in Figure 2 is described in detail below, some of which are also found along the San Gabriel River. Representative photographs are provided in Attachment B. Open Water/Streambed Areas identified as open water were observed to contain standing or flowing water, or areas of dry soft-bottom streambed that show evidence of previous flow or inundation. Open water areas are generally devoid of vegetation. Within the study area, flows to the Rio Hondo are primarily controlled by the Whittier Narrows WRP. During the field surveys, the Rio Hondo was dry with the exception of two small ponded areas at existing outfalls, including downstream of Discharge Station No. 004 and at an existing storm drain outlet on the western bank of the Rio Hondo (Figure 2). While western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) was observed at the storm drain outlet, no other aquatic species were observed during the field surveys. Open water/streambed habitat within the study area is not expected to support or sustain native fish or other aquatic species. Cattail Marsh A small patch of cattail marsh was noted within a fully inundated portion of the willow woodland plant community, mapped within the floodplain of the Rio Hondo upstream from the dam near Rosemead Boulevard 3

42 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion (State Route 19). This community consisted entirely of broadleaf cattail (likely Typha latifolia), submerged in open water, with hydric soils. Willow Woodland Willow woodland was mapped along the Rio Hondo, and is characterized as supporting a tree layer dominated by Goodding s black willow (Salix gooddingii). The black willow is interspersed with various other native and nonnative grass, palm and tree species such as arundo (Arundo donax), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), Shamel ash (Fraxinus uhdei), blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea), arroyo willow (S. lasiolepis), box elder (Acer negundo), and Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia filifera). This community supports a robust herbaceous layer dominated by various grasses and forbs, including Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola), sweetclover (Melilotus albus), seep monkey flower (Mimulus guttatus), London rocket (Sysimbrium irio), tall cyperus (Cyperus eragrostis), and annual stinging nettle (Urtica urens). This community has a NatureServe rank of S3G4 and is designated by CDFW as sensitive. Giant Reed Giant reed (Arundo donax) areas were characterized and mapped throughout much of the floodplain surrounding the Rio Hondo, upstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam. This community supports a dense layer of giant reed, dominating both the overstory and understory. This community supports very few shrub or herbaceous species, except along its margins. Such species include horehound (Marrubium vulgare), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), and shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana). Disturbed/Developed Disturbed/developed land use was noted and mapped throughout the survey area. Developed land use consisted of paved and unpaved roadways, boulder riprap, and various other forms of infrastructure either completely or largely devoid of vegetative cover. Non-Native Tree Woodland (e.g., Eucalyptus, Ash, Elm, Fig) Non-native tree woodland was characterized and mapped throughout much of the floodplain surrounding the Rio Hondo, upstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam. This community supports a tree layer dominated by non-native species such as bluegum, red river gum, Shamel ash and Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia). This community supports an herbaceous layer identical in character to the adjacent, disturbed, weed-dominated plant community and includes such species as castor bean (Ricinus communis), poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix), shortpod mustard and sweet clover. Upland (Mustard, Mixed Non-Native Species Castor Bean, Tree Tobacco, etc.) Upland areas include those dominated by common non-native forbs established in historically disturbed areas throughout much of the Rio Hondo floodplain. This community consists almost entirely of non-native, herbaceous forbs and some shrub species such as shortpod mustard, castor bean, cheeseweed mallow (Malva parviflora), sweet clover, poison hemlock and tree tabacco. Native species, such as annual burrweed (Ambrosia acanthicarpa), ragweed (A. psilostachya) and annual sunflower (Helianthus annuus) may also occur and may be co-dominant in some areas. A few native and non-native tree species are also scattered throughout this community, such as blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), red river gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), box elder, and Shamel ash. 4

43 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Results for Portion of the Study Area in Zone 1 Ditch and San Gabriel River Figures 3 and 4 summarize vegetation communities found near the Zone 1 Ditch downstream of Discharge Station No. 002 and within the San Gabriel River downstream of Discharge Station No Each community and land use have been organized based on native or non-native dominance and are described in detail below. These habitat descriptions provided below are taken from the San Gabriel River Watershed Project to Reduce River Discharge in Support of Increased Recycled Water Reuse: Biological Resources Technical Memorandum (ESA) dated July Riverine Unvegetated Streambed Areas classified as unvegetated streambed include the soft-bottom channel bed where vegetation is very sparse or entirely lacking. These areas are typically result from scour or silt/sand deposition during high flows and storm events in the San Gabriel River. Unvegetated streambed areas also represent those areas where standing or flowing water was not apparent in most aerial photos or during field inspection. Native Riparian Communities Black Willow Thickets Black willow thickets were characterized and mapped both upstream and immediately downstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam; along the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River, respectively. This community is characterized as supporting a tree layer dominated by Goodding s black willow (Salix gooddingii]; a much more mature form of this tree layer was observed along the San Gabriel River, while mainly successional tree growth was observed along the Rio Hondo, with many trees remaining less than three meters in height. The black willow is interspersed with various other native and non-native grass, palm and tree species such as arundo (Arundo donax), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), Shamel ash (Fraxinus uhdei), blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea), sandbar willow (S. exigua), arroyo willow (S. lasiolepis), Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolia) and Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia filifera). This community supports a robust herbaceous layer dominated by various grasses and forbs, including Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola), sweetclover (Melilotus albus), seep monkey flower (Mimulus guttatus), London rocket (Sysimbrium irio), spiny cow thistle (Sonchus asper) and saltmarsh aster (Symphyotrichum subulatum var. parviflorum). This community has a NatureServe rank of S3G4 and is designated by CDFW as sensitive. Mulefat Thickets Mulefat thickets were characterized and mapped along the San Gabriel River, downstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam, and along portion of the Zone 1 Ditch bed and banks. This community supports a dense, small tree layer of mulefat interspersed with various other tree species such as arroyo willow, black willow, Shamel ash and red river gum. Due to the dense tree layer, this community does not support a formative shrub or herbaceous layer; however, various species observed within the adjacent ruderal vegetation occur along the margins of this community and include shortpod mustard, tall cyperus (Cyperus eragrostis) and annual stinging nettle (Urtica urens). 5

44 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Non-Native Riparian Community Giant Reed Breaks Giant reed breaks were characterized and mapped throughout much of the floodplain surrounding the Rio Hondo, upstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam. This community supports a dense layer of giant reed, dominating both the overstory and understory, interspersed throughout with various native and non-native tree species such as black willow, bluegum (E. globulus), mulefat and red river gum. This community supports very few shrub or herbaceous species, except along its margins. Such species include horehound, poison hemlock and shortpod mustard. Native Upland/Transitional Community Blue Elderberry Stands Although characterized as native, since the main shrub and tree species are native to the area, blue elderberry stands also exhibit substantial presence of ruderal (weedy, non-native) elements. Blue elderberry stands were identified throughout upland areas adjacent to the Zone 1 Ditch. This community is characterized as having a moderately dense, small tree layer of blue elderberry, interspersed with various species of trees and shrubs including River red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Southern black walnut (Juglans californica), western sycamore (Platanus racemosa), golden current (Ribes aureum), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) and Shamel ash. This community, within the boundaries of the Whittier Narrows Nature Preserve, tend to support more native tree species as well as a dense shrub layer dominated by the native golden current (Ribes aureum var. gracillimum). It is likely that this area has been restored/maintained to preserve native species and eradicate nonnatives. Portions along the Zone 1 Ditch, outside the preserve support fewer native shrub and tree species with a pronounced herbaceous layer dominated by non-native species; much of this area was heavily choked with the passion flower (Passiflora caerulea), an escaped cultivated vine species. As mentioned above, the herbaceous layer is composed predominantly of non-native grasses and forbs, overwhelmingly dominated by red brome (Bromus rubens ssp. madritensis), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), horehound (Marrubium vulgare) and Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense). This community has a NatureServe rank of S3G3 and is designated by CDFW as sensitive. Non-Native Communities Disturbed/Developed Disturbed/developed land use was noted and mapped throughout the survey area. Developed land use consisted of paved and unpaved roadways, boulder riprap, and various other forms of infrastructure either completely or largely devoid of vegetative cover. Disturbed areas are represented by only weedy, herbaceous species in areas that appeared to have been cleared or may have been subject to scouring within the main San Gabriel River channel which include tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca), castor bean (Ricinus communis) and other ruderal (non-native) species. Non-Native Tree Woodland (e.g., Eucalyptus, Ash, Elm, Fig) Non-native tree woodland was characterized and mapped throughout much of the floodplain surrounding the Rio Hondo, upstream of the Whittier Narrows Dam and various other locations within the San Gabriel River and 6

45 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion along the Zone 1 Ditch. This community supports a tree layer dominated by non-native species such as bluegum, edible fig, red river gum, Shamel ash and Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia) that is interspersed with native species such as black and sandbar willow. This community supports an herbaceous layer identical in character to the adjacent, disturbed, weed-dominated plant community and includes such species as castor bean, poison sumac, shortpod mustard and sweet clover. Ruderal Forbland (e.g., Castor Bean, Mustard, Cheeseweed, Poison Hemlock, Sweetclover) Ruderal vegetation, dominated by common non-native forbs established in historically disturbed areas, was present throughout much of the Rio Hondo floodplain, along the San Gabriel River and along the Zone 1 Ditch. This community consists almost entirely of non-native, herbaceous forbs and some shrub species such as castor bean, cheeseweed mallow (Malva parviflora), shortpod mustard, sweet clover, poison hemlock, and Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus). Native species, such as annual burrweed (Ambrosia acanthicarpa), ragweed (A. psilostachya) and annual sunflower (Helianthus annuus) may also occur and may be co-dominant in some areas. A few native and non-native tree species are also scattered throughout this community, such as blue gum, edible fig (Ficus carica), red river gum and Shamel ash. Non-Native Grassland (e.g., Red Brome, Ripgut Brome, Mustard, Johnson Grass) This community is characterized by dominant presence of non-native grass species with forbs also present but not completely dominant. These common ruderal grasses include red brome (Bromus rubens ssp. madritensis), ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), black mustard (Brassica nigra), horehound (Marrubium vulgare), and Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense). Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) and sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) are also present and may be dominant in small patch areas. CDFW Sensitive Natural Communities and Habitat Sensitive natural communities and habitats are those defined by the CDFW as those that have a reduced range and/or are imperiled due to various forms of impact such as residential and commercial development, agriculture, energy production and mining, and an influx of invasive and other problematic species. Vegetation communities are evaluated using NatureServe s Heritage Methodology (NatureServe, 2018) which is based on the knowledge of range and distribution of a specific vegetation type and the proportion of occurrences that are of good ecological integrity. Evaluation is done at both State (within California[S]) and Global (natural range within and outside of California[G]), each ranked from 1 (very rare and threatened) to 5 (demonstrably secure). Natural communities and habitats with state ranks of S1-S3 are considered Sensitive Natural Communities and require review when evaluating CEQA impacts (CDFW, 2018b). As described above, the willow woodland (dominated by black willow vegetation alliance) has a NatureServe rank of S3G4; therefore, this community is designated by the CDFW as sensitive and is afforded protection under CEQA. Critical Habitat Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) was federally listed as threatened on March 30, 1993 (58 FR 16742) and is noted as a State Species of Special Concern for CDFW. Critical habitat for this species was designated by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in Based on review of the USFWS s Critical Habitat for Threatened and Endangered Species (2017), critical habitat for coastal California gnatcatcher 7

46 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion in the study area overlays a portion of the study area south of San Gabriel Boulevard. Despite being designated as critical habitat, potentially suitable nesting habitat is lacking in the study area since it does not contain suitable Californian sagebrush (Artemisia californica) habitat necessary for coastal California gnatcatcher. This species has been reported in the WNRA and may forage in the study area, but not expected to breed. Special-Status Species Special-status species are defined as those plants and animals that, because of their recognized rarity or vulnerability to various causes of habitat loss or population decline, are recognized by federal, state, or other agencies as under threat from human-associated actions. Some of these species receive specific protections that are defined by federal or state endangered species legislation. Others have been designated as special-status on the basis of adopted policies of state resource agencies or organizations with acknowledged expertise, or policies adopted by local governmental agencies such as counties, cities, and special districts to meet local conservation objectives. Wildlife and plants can be designated as special-status species in several ways: Federal Endangered Species Act: Species listed or proposed for listing as threatened or endangered, or as a candidate for possible future listing as threatened or endangered; critical habitat can be designated for listed species; USFWS currently oversees special-status listing for species in the Study Area. California Endangered Species Act: Species listed or proposed for listing as threatened or endangered, or are a candidate for possible future listing as threatened or endangered. CEQA Guidelines, Section 15380: Species that meet the definitions of rare or endangered, as defined in Section of the CEQA Guidelines. California Department of Fish and Wildlife: Species designated by CDFW as species of special concern and species on the watch list for listing to the California ESA; and species identified as fully protected under the California Fish and Game Code; Sections 3511, 4700, and Special-Status Plants Focused surveys for special-status plants have not been performed in the study area. However, special-status plants are generally not expected to occur in the study area due to the high level of habitat degradation that has occurred from streambed alterations (i.e., cement-lined and accelerated flows), ground disturbance, extensive populations of exotic plant species that outcompete natives, homeless encampments, and trash. CNDDB records for the area include several special-status plants, but only Nevin s barberry (Berberis nevinii) is considered potentially present in the WNRA, and that record is known to have been intentionally planted there rather than occurring naturally. A summary of the listing status for each of these species, as well as their likelihood of occurrence in the Study Area is presented in Table 1, Special-Status Plants Considered Potential to Occur. The Potential for Occurrence as described in Table 1 is defined as follows: Not Expected: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity does not provide suitable habitat for a particular species. Low Potential: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity only provide limited habitat for a particular species. In addition, the study area may lie outside the known range for a particular species. 8

47 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Special-Status Wildlife Focused survey for special-status wildlife have not been performed in the study area. The potential for specialstatus wildlife species to occur in the study area was determined through the habitat assessments performed during the field surveys, as well as review of recent or past occurrences within the study area as reported to the CNDDB. A summary of the listing status for each of these species, as well as their likelihood of occurrence in the Study Area is presented in Table 2, Special-Status Wildlife Potential to Occur. The Potential for Occurrence as described in Table 2 is defined as follows: Not Expected: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity does not support suitable habitat for a particular species. Low Potential: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity only provide limited habitat for a particular species. In addition, the known range for a particular species may be outside of the immediate project area. Medium Potential: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity provide suitable habitat for a particular species. High Potential: The Study Area and/or immediate vicinity provide ideal habitat conditions for a particular species and/or known populations occur in the immediate area. Present: The species was observed on the site during a field survey conducted by ESA in

48 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion TABLE 1 SPECIAL-STATUS PLANTS CONSIDERED POTENTIAL TO OCCUR Species aphanisma Aphanisma blitoides Braunton's milk-vetch Astragalus brauntonii Ventura Marsh milkvetch Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus Coulter's saltbush Atriplex coulteri south coast saltscale Atriplex pacifica Parish's brittlescale Atriplex parishii Davidson's saltscale Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii Nevin's barberry Berberis nevinii slender mariposa-lily Calochortus clavatus var. gracilis Plummer's mariposa-lily Calochortus plummerae intermediate mariposalily Calochortus weedii var. intermedius lucky morning-glory Calystegia felix Federal/State/ CRPR 1 Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area / /1B.2 Coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, coastal scrub. On bluffs and slopes near the ocean in sandy or clay soils m. FE/ /1B.1 Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. Recent burns or disturbed areas; usually on sandstone with carbonate layers. Soil specialist; requires shallow soils to defeat pocket gophers and open areas, preferably on hilltops, saddles or bowls between hills m. FE/SE/1B.1 Marshes and swamps, coastal dunes, coastal scrub. Within reach of high tide or protected by barrier beaches, more rarely near seeps on sandy bluffs m. / /1B.2 Coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. Ocean bluffs, ridgetops, as well as alkaline low places. Alkaline or clay soils m. / /1B.2 Coastal scrub, coastal bluff scrub, playas, coastal dunes. Alkali soils m. / /1B.1 Vernal pools, chenopod scrub, playas. Usually on drying alkali flats with fine soils m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /1B.2 Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub. Alkaline soil m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. FE/SE/1B.1 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, riparian scrub. On steep, N-facing slopes or in low grade sandy washes m. / /1B.2 Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. Shaded foothill canyons; often on grassy slopes within other habitat m. / /4.2 Coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest. Occurs on rocky and sandy sites, usually of granitic or alluvial material. Can be very common after fire m. / /1B.2 Coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland. Dry, rocky open slopes and rock outcrops m. / /1B.1 Meadows and seeps, riparian scrub. Sometimes alkaline, alluvial m. Not Expected: The one specimen from near the study area is believed to planted by the Whittier Narrows Nature Center; otherwise, the study area is outside of the current range of the species. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. 10

49 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species southern tarplant Centromadia parryi ssp. australis smooth tarplant Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis salt marsh bird's-beak Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum Parry's spineflower Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi California saw-grass Cladium californicum Peruvian dodder Cuscuta obtusiflora var. glandulosa slender-horned spineflower Dodecahema leptoceras many-stemmed dudleya Dudleya multicaulis San Diego buttoncelery Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii San Gabriel bedstraw Galium grande Los Angeles sunflower Helianthus nuttallii ssp. parishii mesa horkelia Horkelia cuneata var. puberula Federal/State/ CRPR 1 Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area / /1B.1 Marshes and swamps (margins), valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools. Often in disturbed sites near the coast at marsh edges; also in alkaline soils sometimes with saltgrass. Sometimes on vernal pool margins m. / /1B.1 Valley and foothill grassland, chenopod scrub, meadows and seeps, playas, riparian woodland. Alkali meadow, alkali scrub; also in disturbed places m. FE/SE/1B.2 Marshes and swamps, coastal dunes. Limited to the higher zones of salt marsh habitat m. / /1B.1 Coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, valley and foothill grassland. Dry slopes and flats; sometimes at interface of 2 vegetation types, such as chaparral and oak woodland. Dry, sandy soils m. / /2B.2 Meadows and seeps, marshes and swamps (alkaline or freshwater). Freshwater or alkaline moist habitats m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Low Potential: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area; however, most records for the species are from San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. There is only one historic (1861) record from Los Angeles County. / /2B.2 Marshes and swamps (freshwater). Freshwater marsh m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. There are no herbarium records from Los Angeles County. FE/SE/1B.1 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub (alluvial fan sage scrub). Flood deposited terraces and washes; associates include Encelia, Dalea, Lepidospartum, etc. Sandy soils m. / /1B.2 Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. In heavy, often clayey soils or grassy slopes m. FE/SE/1B.1 Vernal pools, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. San Diego mesa hardpan & claypan vernal pools & southern interior basalt flow vernal pools; usually surrounded by scrub m. / /1B.2 Cismontane woodland, chaparral, broadleafed upland forest, lower montane coniferous forest. Open chaparral and low, open oak forest; on rocky slopes; probably undercollected due to inaccessible habitat m. Not Expected: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area; however, most of the herbarium records in Los Angeles County are located near the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /1A Marshes and swamps (coastal salt and freshwater) m. Not Expected: The species is believed to be extinct. / /1B.1 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub. Sandy or gravelly sites m. Low Potential: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area. 11

50 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species decumbent goldenbush Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens Coulter's goldfields Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Robinson's peppergrass Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii California muhly Muhlenbergia californica mud nama Nama stenocarpa Gambel's water cress Nasturtium gambelii prostrate vernal pool navarretia Navarretia prostrata coast woolly-heads Nemacaulis denudata var. denudata California Orcutt grass Orcuttia californica Lyon's pentachaeta Pentachaeta lyonii Brand's star phacelia Phacelia stellaris white rabbit-tobacco Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum Parish's gooseberry Ribes divaricatum var. parishii Federal/State/ CRPR 1 Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area / /1B.2 Coastal scrub, chaparral. Sandy soils; often in disturbed sites m. / /1B.1 Coastal salt marshes, playas, vernal pools. Usually found on alkaline soils in playas, sinks, and grasslands m. Not Expected: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area; however, the study area is at the northern limits of the range of the species, with most of the herbarium records for the species being from San Diego County. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /4.3 Chaparral, coastal scrub. Dry soils, shrubland m. Low Potential: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area and records of the species upstream. / /4.3 Coastal scrub, chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps. Usually found near streams or seeps m. / /2B.2 Marshes and swamps. Lake shores, river banks, intermittently wet areas m. FE/ST/1B.1 Marshes and swamps. Freshwater and brackish marshes at the margins of lakes and along streams, in or just above the water level m. / /1B.1 Coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools, meadows and seeps. Alkaline soils in grassland, or in vernal pools. Mesic, alkaline sites m. Not Expected: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area; however, most of the herbarium records in Los Angeles County are in the San Gabriel Mountains. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /1B.2 Coastal dunes m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. FE/SE/1B.1 Vernal pools m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. FE/SE/1B.1 Chaparral, valley and foothill grassland, coastal scrub. Edges of clearings in chaparral, usually at the ecotone between grassland and chaparral or edges of firebreaks m. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /1B.1 Coastal scrub, coastal dunes. Open areas m. Not Expected: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area; however, the study area is at the northern limits of the range of the species, with most of the herbarium records for the species being from San Diego County. / /2B.2 Riparian woodland, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, chaparral. Sandy, gravelly sites m. Low Potential: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area. / /1A Riparian woodland. Salix swales in riparian habitats m. Not Expected: The species is believed to be extinct. 12

51 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species Federal/State/ CRPR 1 Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area salt spring checkerbloom Sidalcea neomexicana estuary seablite Suaeda esteroa San Bernardino aster Symphyotrichum defoliatum Federal FE = Endangered FT = Threatened / /2B.2 Playas, chaparral, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, Mojavean desert scrub. Alkali springs and marshes m. / /1B.2 Marshes and swamps. Coastal salt marshes in clay, silt, and sand substrates m. / /1B.2 Meadows and seeps, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, marshes and swamps, valley and foothill grassland. Vernally mesic grassland or near ditches, streams and springs; disturbed areas m. State SE = Endangered ST = Threatened Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Low Potential: There is marginal habitat for the species present in the study area. California Rare Plant Rank 1A. Presumed extinct in California 1B. Rare or Endangered in California and elsewhere 2A. Presumed extinct in California, extant and more common elsewhere 2B. Rare or Endangered in California, more common elsewhere 3. Plants for which we need more information - Review list 4. Plants of limited distribution - Watch list Threat Ranks.1 - Seriously endangered in California.2 Fairly endangered in California.3 Not very endangered in California 13

52 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion TABLE 2 SPECIAL-STATUS WILDLIFE POTENTIAL TO OCCUR Species Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area Invertebrates Crotch bumblebee Bombus crotchii western tidal-flat tiger beetle Cicindela gabbii sandy beach tiger beetle Cicindela hirticollis gravida western beach tiger beetle Cicindela latesignata latesignata senile tiger beetle Cicindela senilis frosti globose dune beetle Coelus globosus monarch - California overwintering population Danaus plexippus pop. 1 wandering (=saltmarsh) skipper Panoquina errans Dorothy's El Segundo Dune weevil Trigonoscuta dorothea dorothea / /S1S2 Coastal California east to the Sierra-Cascade crest and south into Mexico. Food plant genera include Antirrhinum, Phacelia, Clarkia, Dendromecon, Eschscholzia, and Eriogonum. / /S1 Inhabits estuaries and mudflats along the coast of Southern California. Generally found on dark-colored mud in the lower zone; occasionally found on dry saline flats of estuaries. / /S2 Inhabits areas adjacent to non-brackish water along the coast of California from San Francisco Bay to northern Mexico. Clean, dry, light-colored sand in the upper zone. Subterranean larvae prefer moist sand not affected by wave action. High Potential: Food plants are present in the study area and there are nearby records. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /S1 Mudflats and beaches in coastal Southern California. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /S1 Inhabits marine shoreline, from Central California coast south to salt marshes of San Diego. Also found at Lake Elsinore Inhabits dark-colored mud in the lower zone and dried salt pans in the upper zone. / /S1S2 Inhabitant of coastal sand dune habitat; erratically distributed from Ten Mile Creek in Mendocino County south to Ensenada, Mexico. Inhabits foredunes and sand hummocks; it burrows beneath the sand surface and is most common beneath dune vegetation. / /S2S3 Winter roost sites extend along the coast from northern Mendocino to Baja California, Mexico. Roosts located in wind-protected tree groves (eucalyptus, Monterey pine, cypress), with nectar and water sources nearby. / /S2 Southern California coastal salt marshes. Requires moist saltgrass for larval development. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /S1 Coastal sand dunes in Los Angeles County. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. San Diego fairy FE/ /S2 Endemic to San Diego and Orange County mesas. Vernal pools. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the 14

53 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species shrimp Branchinecta sandiegonensis Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area study area. Fish Santa Ana sucker Catostomus santaanae arroyo chub Gila orcuttii Santa Ana speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 3 arroyo toad Anaxyrus californicus southern mountain yellow-legged frog Rana muscosa western spadefoot Spea hammondii Coast Range newt Taricha torosa Reptiles California glossy snake Arizona elegans occidentalis orange-throated whiptail Aspidoscelis hyperythra coastal whiptail Aspidoscelis tigris FT/ /S1 Endemic to Los Angeles Basin south coastal streams. Habitat generalists, but prefer sand-rubble-boulder bottoms, cool, clear water, and algae. / /SSC Native to streams from Malibu Creek to San Luis Rey River basin. Introduced into streams in Santa Clara, Ventura, Santa Ynez, Mojave and San Diego river basins. Slow water stream sections with mud or sand bottoms. Feeds heavily on aquatic vegetation and associated invertebrates. / /SSC Headwaters of the Santa Ana and San Gabriel rivers. May be extirpated from the Los Angeles River system. Requires permanent flowing streams with summer water temps of Celsius. Usually inhabits shallow cobble and gravel riffles. Amphibians FE/ /SSC Semi-arid regions near washes or intermittent streams, including valleyfoothill and desert riparian, desert wash, etc. Rivers with sandy banks, willows, cottonwoods, and sycamores; loose, gravelly areas of streams in drier parts of range. FE/SE/WL Always encountered within a few feet of water. Tadpoles may require 2-4 years to complete their aquatic development. / /SSC Occurs primarily in grassland habitats but can be found in valley-foothill hardwood woodlands. Vernal pools are essential for breeding and egglaying. / /SSC Coastal drainages from Mendocino County to San Diego County. Lives in terrestrial habitats and will migrate over 1 kilometer to breed in ponds, reservoirs and slow-moving streams. / /SSC Patchily distributed from the eastern portion of San Francisco Bay, southern San Joaquin Valley, and the Coast, Transverse, and Peninsular ranges, south to Baja California. Generalist reported from a range of scrub and grassland habitats, often with loose or sandy soils. / /WL Inhabits low-elevation coastal scrub, chaparral, and valley-foothill hardwood habitats. Prefers washes and other sandy areas with patches of brush and rocks. Perennial plants necessary for its major food: termites. / /SSC Found in deserts and semi-arid areas with sparse vegetation and open areas. Also found in woodland and riparian areas. Ground may be firm 15 Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. The species is known to occur upstream, but numerous barriers are present between the study area and these populations. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. The species is known to occur upstream, but numerous barriers are present between the study area and these populations. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. The species is known to occur upstream, but numerous barriers are present between the study area and these populations. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. The species has been extirpated from most of Los Angeles County. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. The species is known to occur upstream, but numerous barriers are present between the study area and these populations. Low Potential: Marginal habitat for the species occurs in the study area. Not Expected: The study area is outside of the range of the species. Medium Potential. Marginal habitat for the species is found in the study area.

54 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area stejnegeri soil, sandy, or rocky. green sea turtle Chelonia mydas western pond turtle Emys marmorata coast horned lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii two-striped garter snake Thamnophis hammondii Birds Cooper s hawk Accipiter cooperii tricolored blackbird Agelaius tricolor southern California rufouscrowned sparrow Aimophila ruficeps canescens grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum burrowing owl Athene cunicularia ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis FT/ /S1 Marine. Completely herbivorous; needs adequate supply of seagrasses and algae. / /SSC A thoroughly aquatic turtle of ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches, usually with aquatic vegetation, below 6000 feet elevation. Needs basking sites and suitable (sandy banks or grassy open fields) upland habitat up to 0.5 km from water for egg-laying. / /SSC Frequents a wide variety of habitats, most common in lowlands along sandy washes with scattered low bushes. Open areas for sunning, bushes for cover, patches of loose soil for burial, and abundant supply of ants and other insects. / /SSC Coastal California from vicinity of Salinas to northwest Baja California. From sea to about 7,000 feet elevation. Highly aquatic, found in or near permanent fresh water. / /WL Habitat includes mature forest, open woodlands, wood edges, river groves. Typically nests in woodlands with tall trees and openings or edge habitat nearby. Increasingly found in cities where some tall trees exist. /CE/SSC Highly colonial species, most numerous in Central Valley and vicinity. Largely endemic to California. Requires open water, protected nesting substrate, and foraging area with insect prey within a few km of the colony. / /WL Resident in Southern California coastal sage scrub and sparse mixed chaparral. Frequents relatively steep, often rocky hillsides with grass and forb patches. / /SSC Dense grasslands on rolling hills, lowland plains, in valleys and on hillsides on lower mountain slopes. Favors native grasslands with a mix of grasses, forbs and scattered shrubs. Loosely colonial when nesting. / /SSC Open, dry annual or perennial grasslands, deserts, and scrublands characterized by low-growing vegetation. Subterranean nester, dependent upon burrowing mammals, most notably, the California ground squirrel. / /WL Open grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert scrub, low foothills and fringes of pinyon and juniper habitats. Eats mostly lagomorphs, ground squirrels, Not Expected: This species is not expected to occur because no suitable habitat is present. Low Potential: Limited amount of potentially suitable egg-laying habitat near areas where surface water occurs. The CNDDB includes two records in the near vicinity of the study area from the 1980 s, one near the Zone 1 Ditch (east of the study area) and one in the San Gabriel River. Also, introduced predators (e.g., bullfrog, African clawed frog, carp, bass) are prevalent and storm events occasionally result in extremely high flows in these segments that would put estivating turtles at risk. These factors reduce the chances that a viable breeding population could persist. Low Potential: Marginal habitat for the species occurs in the study area. Low Potential: Marginal habitat for the species occurs in the study area. Present: The species has been observed year-round in the study area and is expected to nest and forage there. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. May pass through the area during migration. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Low Potential. The species is not expected to breed in the study area, but individuals could occur during winter and migration. Not Expected: Outside of the breeding range of the species. May pass through the study area during migration. 16

55 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni coastal cactus wren Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus sandiegensis western snowy plover Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus western yellowbilled cuckoo Coccyzus americanus occidentalis yellow rail Coturnicops noveboracensis black swift Cypseloides niger white-tailed kite Elanus leucurus southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus American peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatum yellow-breasted chat Icteria virens and mice. Population trends may follow lagomorph population cycles. /ST/S3 Breeds in grasslands with scattered trees, juniper-sage flats, riparian areas, savannahs, and agricultural or ranch lands with groves or lines of trees. Requires adjacent suitable foraging areas such as grasslands, or alfalfa or grain fields supporting rodent populations. / /SSC Southern California coastal sage scrub. Wrens require tall Opuntia cactus for nesting and roosting. FT/ /SSC Sandy beaches, salt pond levees and shores of large alkali lakes. Needs sandy, gravelly or friable soils for nesting. FT/SE/S1 Riparian forest nester, along the broad, lower flood-bottoms of larger river systems. Nests in riparian jungles of willow, often mixed with cottonwoods, with lower story of blackberry, nettles, or wild grape. / /SSC Summer resident in eastern Sierra Nevada in Mono County. Freshwater marshlands. / /SSC Coastal belt of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties; central and southern Sierra Nevada; San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains. Breeds in small colonies on cliffs behind or adjacent to waterfalls in deep canyons and sea-bluffs above the surf; forages widely. / /FP Rolling foothills and valley margins with scattered oaks and river bottomlands or marshes next to deciduous woodland. Open grasslands, meadows, or marshes for foraging close to isolated, dense-topped trees for nesting and perching. FE/FE/S1 Prefers dense vegetation throughout all vegetation layers present in riparian areas. Prefers nesting over or in the immediate vicinity of standing water. D/D/FP Near wetlands, lakes, rivers, or other water; on cliffs, banks, dunes, mounds; also, human-made structures. Nest consists of a scrape or a depression or ledge in an open site. / /SSC Summer resident; inhabits riparian thickets of willow and other brushy tangles near watercourses. Nests in low, dense riparian, consisting of willow, blackberry, wild grape; forages and nests within 10 feet of ground. Not Expected: Outside of the breeding range of the species. May pass through the study area during migration. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: Outside of the breeding range of the species. May pass through the area during migration. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Low Potential: Marginal habitat for the species occurs in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. May forage in the study area. Medium Potential: The willow woodland and arundo habitat in the study area provides suitable habitat for this species. 17

56 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area California black rail Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus osprey Pandion haliaetus Belding's savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi California brown pelican Pelecanus occidentalis californicus coastal California gnatcatcher Polioptila californica californica light-footed Ridgway's rail Rallus obsoletus levipes bank swallow Riparia riparia black skimmer Rynchops niger yellow warbler Setophaga petechia California least tern Sternula antillarum browni /ST/FP Inhabits freshwater marshes, wet meadows and shallow margins of saltwater marshes bordering larger bays. Needs water depths of about 1 inch that do not fluctuate during the year and dense vegetation for nesting habitat. / /WL Ocean shore, bays, freshwater lakes, and larger streams. Large nests built in tree-tops within 15 miles of a good fish-producing body of water. /SE/S3 Inhabits coastal salt marshes, from Santa Barbara south through San Diego County. Nests in Salicornia on and about margins of tidal flats. D/D/FP Colonial nester on coastal islands just outside the surf line. Nests on coastal islands of small to moderate size which afford immunity from attack by ground-dwelling predators. Roosts communally. FT/ /SSC Obligate, permanent resident of coastal sage scrub below 2500 feet in Southern California. Low, coastal sage scrub in arid washes, on mesas and slopes. Not all areas classified as coastal sage scrub are occupied. FE/SE/FP Found in salt marshes traversed by tidal sloughs, where cordgrass and pickleweed are the dominant vegetation. Requires dense growth of either pickleweed or cordgrass for nesting or escape cover; feeds on mollusks and crustaceans. /ST/S2 Colonial nester; nests primarily in riparian and other lowland habitats west of the desert. Requires vertical banks/cliffs with fine-textured/sandy soils near streams, rivers, lakes, ocean to dig nesting hole. / /SSC Nests on gravel bars, low islets, and sandy beaches, in unvegetated sites. Nesting colonies usually less than 200 pairs. / /SSC Riparian plant associations in close proximity to water. Also nests in montane shrubbery in open conifer forests in Cascades and Sierra Nevada. Frequently found nesting and foraging in willow shrubs and thickets, and in other riparian plants including cottonwoods, sycamores, ash, and alders. FE/SE/FP Nests along the coast from San Francisco Bay south to northern Baja California. Colonial breeder on bare or sparsely vegetated, flat substrates: sand beaches, alkali flats, landfills, or paved areas. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting or foraging habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. High Potential: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. However, the study area is within designated critical habitat for the species. The species is known to occur adjacent to the study area in the Montebello Hills and may occur in the study area as a transient. The species is not expected to occur within the river channel or upland habits within the study area since suitable habitat for this species is not present. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. Present: The species has been observed and is expected to use the study area for nesting and foraging. Not Expected: No suitable nesting habitat for the species present in the study area. 18

57 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species least Bell s vireo Vireo bellii pusillus Mammals pallid bat Antrozous pallidus Townsend's bigeared bat Corynorhinus townsendii western mastiff bat Eumops perotis californicus silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans western red bat Lasiurus blossevillii hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus western yellow bat Lasiurus xanthinus San Diego blacktailed jackrabbit Lepus californicus bennettii south coast marsh vole Microtus californicus stephensi pocketed freetailed bat Nyctinomops Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area FE/SE/S2 Summer resident of Southern California in low riparian in vicinity of water or in dry river bottoms; below 2000 feet. Nests placed along margins of bushes or on twigs studying into pathways, usually willow, Baccharis, mesquite. / /SSC Deserts, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands and forests. Most common in open, dry habitats with rocky areas for roosting. Roosts must protect bats from high temperatures. Very sensitive to disturbance of roosting sites. / /SSC Throughout California in a wide variety of habitats. Most common in mesic sites. Roosts in the open, hanging from walls and ceilings. Roosting sites limiting. Extremely sensitive to human disturbance. / /SSC Many open, semi-arid to arid habitats, including conifer and deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, grasslands, chaparral, etc. Roosts in crevices in cliff faces, high buildings, trees and tunnels. / /S3S4 Primarily a coastal and montane forest dweller, feeding over streams, ponds and open brushy areas. Roosts in hollow trees, beneath exfoliating bark, abandoned woodpecker holes, and rarely under rocks. Needs drinking water. / /SSC Roosts primarily in trees, 2-40 feet above ground, from sea level up through mixed conifer forests. Roosts in the foliage of trees and shrubs in forests. Prefers habitat edges and mosaics with trees that are protected from above and open below with open areas for foraging. / /S4 Prefers open habitats or habitat mosaics, with access to trees for cover and open areas or habitat edges for feeding. Roosts in dense foliage of medium to large trees. Feeds primarily on moths. Requires water. / /SSC Found in valley foothill riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, and palm oasis habitats. Roosts in trees, particularly palms. Forages over water and among trees. / /SSC Intermediate canopy stages of shrub habitats and open shrub / herbaceous and tree / herbaceous edges. Coastal sage scrub habitats in Southern California. Medium Potential: The willow woodland and arundo habitat in the study area provides suitable habitat for this species. Not Expected: No suitable roosting habitat for the species present in the study area. May forage in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable roosting habitat for the species present in the study area. Medium Potential: The species may roost under the bridges in the study area. The species is one of many bats species that are expected forage over the study area. Medium Potential: The species may roost within the trees in the study area. The species is one of many bats species that are expected forage over the study area. Medium Potential: The species may roost within the trees in the study area. The species is one of many bats species that are expected forage over the study area. Medium Potential: The species may roost within the trees in the study area. The species is one of many bats species that are expected forage over the study area. Medium Potential: The species may roost within the trees in the study area. The species is one of many bats species that are expected forage over the study area. Low Potential: The species may be extirpated from the study area due to the loss of suitable habitat. / /SSC Tidal marshes in Los Angeles, Orange and southern Ventura counties. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. / /SSC Variety of arid areas in Southern California; pine-juniper woodlands, desert scrub, palm oasis, desert wash, desert riparian, etc. Rocky areas Not Expected: No suitable roosting habitat for the species present in the study area. May forage in the study area. 19

58 Biological Resources Assessment for the Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Species Federal/State/ CDFW Status Preferred Habitat Probability of Occurrence in Study Area femorosaccus with high cliffs. big free-tailed bat Nyctinomops macrotis southern grasshopper mouse Onychomys torridus ramona Pacific pocket mouse Perognathus longimembris pacificus southern California saltmarsh shrew Sorex ornatus salicornicus American badger Taxidea taxus / /SSC A migratory species that forms maternity colonies in rock crevices and caves that are typically used long term. Roost mainly in crevices and rocks in cliff situations, with occasional roosts occurring in buildings, caves, and tree cavities. / /SSC Desert areas, especially scrub habitats with friable soils for digging. Prefers low to moderate shrub cover. Feeds almost exclusively on arthropods, especially scorpions and orthopteran insects. FE/ /SSC Inhabits the narrow coastal plains from the Mexican border north to El Segundo, Los Angeles County. Seems to prefer soils of fine alluvial sands near the ocean, but much remains to be learned. / /SSC Coastal marshes in Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties. Requires dense vegetation and woody debris for cover. / /SSC Most abundant in drier open stages of most shrub, forest, and herbaceous habitats, with friable soils. Needs sufficient food, friable soils and open, uncultivated ground. Preys on burrowing rodents. Digs burrows. Not Expected: No suitable roosting habitat for the species present in the study area. May forage in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: No suitable habitat for the species present in the study area. Not Expected: The species is extirpated within the study area. Definitions: Federal FE = Endangered FT = Threatened D = Delisted State SE = Endangered CE = Candidate Endangered ST = Threatened SSC = Species of Special Concern CFP = Fully Protected Species WL= California Watchlist (formerly a Species of Special Concern; limited protection) Other Note: The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) uses the same ranking methodology originally developed by The Nature Conservancy and now maintained and recently revised by NatureServe. The state rank (S-rank) refers to the imperilment status only within California s state boundaries. It is a reflection of the overall status of an element through its state range. The state rank represent a letter + number score that reflects a combination of Rarity, Threat, and Trend factors, with weighting being heavier on Rarity than the other two. S1 = Critically Imperiled - Critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer populations) or because of some factor(s) such as very steep declines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state. S2 = Imperiled - Imperiled in the state because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the state. S3 = Vulnerable - Vulnerable in the state due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines, or other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation from the state. S4 = Apparently Secure - Uncommon but not rare in the state; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors. S5 = Secure - Common, widespread, and abundant in the state. SH = All sites are historical; the element has not been seen for at least 20 years, but suitable habitat still exists. SX = All sites are extirpated. 20

59 UV 60 WN004!( Path: U:\GIS\GIS\Projects\17xxxx\D170647_05_Whittier_Narrows_Diversion\03_MXDs_Projects\BioReport\Fig1_DischargeLocations_ mxd, sgeissler 7/30/2018 N N San Gabriel Blvd 0 2,000 Feet Rosemead Blvd WN002!( WN001!(!( Discharge Point SOURCE: ESRI Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Figure 1 Discharge Locations

60 !(!( Study Area/Bosque Del Rio Hondo!( Existing Storm Drain Outlet!( No. 004 Discharge Station from Whittier Narrows WRP Plant Communities and Land Cover Willow Woodland Upland (Mustard, Mixed Non-Native Species Castor Bean, Tree Tobacco, etc.) Feet Cattail Marsh Giant Reed (Arundo) Non-Native Woodland (Eucalyptus) Non-Native Woodland (Castor Bean) Disturbed Open Water, Streambed N SOURCE: ESRI; ESA, Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Figure 2 Bosque Del Rio Hondo Area - Plant Communities and Land Cover Path: U:\GIS\GIS\Projects \17xx xx\d170647_05_whittier_narrows _Diversion\03_MXDs_Projects\BioReport\Fig2_PlantCommunities_Bosque_ mx d, sgeis sler 7/30/2018

61 Service Layer Credits: Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community ELD UM UVC MFT BAR UM UM ELD BAR NNW DEV MFT UM ELD UVC MFT MFT UM UM NNW ELD NNW MFT UM DEV MFT MFT-D BWT ARU BWT DEV UM ARU BWT BAR ARU ARU UM MFT NNW UM BWT UVC BAR MFT UM UM NNW UM BAR YSS UM UM UM UM ELD BAS ELD UVC BAS BAS BAS WAL DEV ELD WGS UM BAR UM AWT UM ELD BAS ELD ELD BAS UM BCF UM UM ELD UM WGS BAR UM ELD ELD CSW NNW UM UM ELD ELD NNW ARU BWT BWT UM UM ELD UM BWT CUR NNW BWT NNW BAR BWT UM UM UM UM BWT MFT BWT DEV Pacific UM Ocean UM ELD UM ELD ELD ELD UM UM DEV ELD UM BWT UM UM BWT UM DEV BWT UM UM BAR BWT UM BWT BWT NNW UM UM UVC BWT UM BAR UM UM BAR BWT ALD BWT BAR UM UM UM MFT BWT MFT UM BWT Legend Vegetation Communities Arroyo willow thickets Barren Basket bush patches Black cottonwood forest California sycamore woodlands California walnut groves California yerba santa scrub Cucurbita Californica Developed Mulefat thickets - Disturbed Non-native woodland Sugarbush chaparral Unvegetated Channel Upland mustards Black willow thickets Eucalyptus semi-natural stands White alder groves D Feet Blue elderberry stands California coffee berry scrub Giant reed breaks Mulefat thickets Wild grape shrubland Survey Area SOURCE: AMEC Foster Wheeler, 2018 Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Figure 3 Zone 1 Ditch & San Gabriel River below Whittier Narrows Dam - Plant Communities and Land Cover

62

63 Legend Barren Black cottonwood forest Blue elderberry stands California sycamore woodlands California walnut groves Developed Eucalyptus semi-natural stands Mulefat thickets Non-native woodland Unvegetated streambed Upland mustards D Feet SOURCE: AMEC Foster Wheeler, 2018 Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant Diversion Figure 4 San Gabriel River below Whittier Narrows Dam- Plant Communities and Land Cover

64

65 Attachment A Wildlife Species Compendium

66 Attachment A: Wildlife Species Compendia Scientific Name Common Name Special Status VERTEBRATES Reptiles Sceloporus occidentalis Uta stansburiana Birds Ardea herodias Ardea alba Egretta thula Nycticorax nycticorax Cathartes aura Accipiter cooperii Buteo lineatus Buteo jamaicensis Falco sparverius *Columba livia *Streptopelia decaocto Zenaida macroura Bubo virginianus Calypte anna Selasphorus sasin Picoides nuttallii Sayornis nigricans Sayornis saya Tyrannus vociferans Aphelocoma californica Corvus brachyrhynchos Corvus corax Stelgidopteryx serripennis Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Hirundo rustica Psaltriparus minimus Thryomanes bewickii Western Fence Lizard Side-blotched Lizard Great Blue Heron Great Egret Snowy Egret Black-crowned Night-Heron Turkey Vulture Cooper's Hawk Red-shouldered Hawk Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Rock Pigeon Eurasian Collared-Dove Mourning Dove Great Horned Owl Anna's Hummingbird Allen's Hummingbird Nuttall's Woodpecker Black Phoebe Say's Phoebe Cassin's Kingbird Western Scrub-Jay American Crow Common Raven Northern Rough-winged Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Bushtit Bewick's Wren

67 Scientific Name Common Name Special Status Mimus polyglottos *Sturnus vulgaris Northern Mockingbird European Starling Dendroica petechia Yellow Warbler CSC Dendroica coronata Melospiza melodia Icterus cucullatus Carpodacus mexicanus Carduelis psaltria Mammals Sylvilagus audubonii Canis latrans Procyon lotor Yellow-rumped Warbler Song Sparrow Hooded Oriole House Finch Lesser Goldfinch Desert Cottontail Coyote Northern Raccoon Legend *= Non-native or invasive species Special Status: Federal: FE = Endangered FT = Threatened State: SE = Endangered ST =Threatened CSC = California Species of Special Concern CFP = California Fully Protected Species

68 Attachment B Site Photographs

69 Photograph 1: Outlet at No. 004 Discharge Station from Whittier Narrows WRP. Photograph 2: Looking southwest showing streambed upstream from the San Gabriel Blvd Bridge. Photo shows willow woodland on the left bank and upland species on the right.

70 Photograph 3: Storm drain outlet on the western side of the main drainage. Photograph 4: View of dry streambed with giant reed and non-native woodlands (Eucalyptus).

71 Photograph 5: Upland area dominated by mustard. Photograph 6: Showing main drainage with dry streambed and willow woodland.