Environmental Declaration WPCP 20240409

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Nesting Birds The project shall avoid construction activities during the bird nesting season (February 1 through August 31). If construction activities are scheduled during the nesting season, a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey of all suitable nesting habitat (i.e., grassland, trees, shrubs, gravel roads, buildings) within 250 feet of the project site (where accessible). The pre -construction survey shall be conducted no more than 14 days prior to the start of work. If the survey indicates the presence of nesting birds, protective buffer zones shall be established around the nests as follows: for raptor nests, the size of the buffer zone shall be a 250-foot radius centered on the nest; for other birds, the size of the buffer zone shall be a 50 to 100-foot radius centered on the nest. In some cases, these buffers may be increased or decreased depending on the bird species and the level of disturbance that will occur near the nest. Roosting Bats A qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey for roosting bats at all suitable bat roosting habitat (large trees, concrete vault box) within the project area within 14 days prior to the beginning of project -related activities. If active bat roosts are discovered or if evidence of recent prior occupation is established, a buffer shall be established around the roost site until the roost site is no longer active. If an active bat roost needs to be removed as part of the proposed project, the project biologist would need to consult CDFW to determine appropriate methods for the removal of the roost. As part of CDFW's approval, a new roost site may need to be created on the project site as mitigation. Salt Marsh Wandering Shrew The following mitigation measures are recommended in order to avoid potential impacts to salt marsh wandering shrew: A CDFW-approved biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey for the salt marsh wandering shrew at the appropriate time of day within the work area within 48 hours prior to the commencement of construction activities. The survey shall entail the biologist walking the work area limits to determine the possible presence of shrews. The biologist shall investigate all potential areas that may be utilized by this species for breeding, sheltering, movement, and other essential behaviors. A CDFW-approved biologist shall be present during all project related activities that may impact the salt marsh wandering shrew or its habitat. + Prior to vegetation removal, upland portions of the site shall be mowed for the purpose of removing cover and encouraging salt marsh wandering shrew to seek cover in the areas outside of the construction area. ■ After vegetation is removed, silt exclusion fencing with wire -mesh backing shall be installed by hand around the construction area to prevent salt marsh wandering shrew from entering the active work area, to protect adjacent habitat from construction activities or accidental spills, and to exclude workers from adjacent habitat. 4/17/20 (P:\TER2001\BA\Special-Status Species Biological Resources Habitat Assessment 4-17-20.docx) 5