IN REPLY REFER TO:

81440-2011-F-0146

March 28, 2012 Robin K. Hunt, Manager Federal Aviation Administration San Francisco Airports District Office 1000 Marina Boulevard Suite 220 Brisbane, California 94005 Subject: Biological Opinion for the Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway

Reconstruction in the City of Watsonville, Santa Cruz County, California (8-8-12-F-6)

This document transmits the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) biological opinion based on our review of the proposed Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway Reconstruction Project and its effects on the federally endangered Santa Cruz long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum), and the federally threatened California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii) and Santa Cruz tarplant (Holocarpha macradenia), and critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant, in accordance with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). Your request for formal consultation was received on June 28, 2011. This biological opinion is based on information which accompanied your January 21, 2011, request for consultation, including the biological supplement (North Fork Associates and Wallace Environmental Consulting, Inc. (North Fork and Wallace) 2011), the amended biological supplement received in our office on May 9, 2011 (Helix Environmental Planning and Wallace (Helix and Wallace) 2011), and correspondence and telephone conversations between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), representatives of the Watsonville Municipal Airport and their biological consultants, and our staff. A complete record of this consultation can be made available at the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office. CONSULTATION HISTORY You requested informal consultation for project related impacts to Santa Cruz tarplant in a letter dated January 21, 2011, and received in our office on January 24, 2011 (FAA, in litt. 2011a). This letter and the accompanying biological supplement (North Fork and Wallace 2011) mentioned the potential presence of the California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander at the Watsonville Municipal Airport; however, the FAA determined that these species would not be present in the project area. Upon review of the biological supplement, we found that additional information was needed regarding the project description and effects to

United States Department of the Interior

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office

2493 Portola Road, Suite B Ventura, California 93003

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 2 listed species. The FAA and staff from our office discussed these issues by telephone and further discussed them in a February 15, 2011, conference call with the FAA, the Watsonville Municipal Airport and their biological consultants, and our office staff, regarding the potential for California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander to occur in or near the project area in a wetland area approximately 500 feet to the west of the project area. The biological consultants indicated that no surveys were conducted for either species on the airport property or in the wetland. We concluded that more information was needed about the wetland and the likelihood of special status amphibians to occur there and the possibility of impacts to those species from the proposed project. On May 9, 2011, we received an amended biological supplement and request for informal consultation from the FAA (FAA, in litt. 2011b; Helix and Wallace 2011). The amended biological supplement indicated that surveys for California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander had not been conducted; the FAA decided to assume presence of these species in the project area and proposed minimization measures including capture and relocation of frogs and salamanders as needed. On June 28, 2011, the FAA requested initiation of formal consultation for the Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway Reconstruction Project and its effects on the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, Santa Cruz tarplant, and critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant (FAA, in litt. 2011c). BIOLOGICAL OPINION DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION The City of Watsonville is proposing to reconstruct Taxiway C and a portion of the general aviation apron at the Watsonville Municipal Airport. These reconstructions are needed to improve aircraft operational safety. The existing Taxiway C is 50 feet wide by 1,350 feet long. The width of the reconstructed taxiway would be reduced to 35 feet, creating an additional 7.5 feet of unpaved surface on each side of the taxiway. The proposed reconstruction of Taxiway C includes pulverizing the existing pavement and base materials and recompacting them as aggregate sub-base, repaving the taxiway, and repainting the yellow centerline. A new 30-inch drainpipe would be installed beneath the taxiway paved section to replace the existing undersized drainpipe. In addition, five guidance sign pads would be installed in the existing 12-foot wide unvegetated taxiway shoulder to meet FAA design standards. The proposed reconstruction of the general aviation apron includes reconstruction of 5,850 square feet in the northwest area of the apron. The existing pavement section would be pulverized, removed, stockpiled, and reused as aggregate sub-base, and the apron would be repaved. See Appendix A for a map of the proposed project locations. Construction Methods The airport maintains an approximately 12-foot wide unvegetated shoulder on each side of all paved areas including both sides of Taxiway C, as required for safety. All construction

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 3 equipment, stockpiles, and haul routes would be restricted to existing paved surfaces, with some limited activity in the 12-foot unvegetated shoulder. Stockpiled material and construction equipment would be stored on a paved area south of Aviation Way. Construction haul routes are designated on the paved general aviation apron and across Runway 2-20 to avoid impacting unpaved surfaces. Construction equipment for the reconstruction of the taxiway and apron include pulverizers, graders, front-end loaders, track-mounted excavators, concrete pumpers and mixers, end and belly dump trucks, roller-type vibrating compactors, asphalt paving machines, and support trucks. As the existing pavement is pulverized and base course is laid, water tank trucks would follow the construction activities to suppress dust. The width of Taxiway C would be reduced from 50 feet to 35 feet, creating an additional 7.5 feet of unpaved surface on both sides of the taxiway. Once the existing taxiway has been pulverized, most of the construction activity and equipment would be located within a 39-foot wide area based on the taxiway centerline. The shoulder of the reconstructed taxiway must be tapered and graded to maintain a maximum 5 percent slope in order to meet FAA design and safety standards. For the majority of the project, this slope can be achieved within the footprint of the 50-foot wide existing taxiway by using the new 7.5-foot wide unpaved area on each side of the reconstructed taxiway; however, minor grading and placement of fill soil would be required in limited areas to create a shoulder safe for aircraft operations. This grading would be limited to the existing 12-foot unvegetated shoulder that is currently maintained by the airport. The FAA and the Watsonville Municipal Airport do not anticipate the project would affect the adjacent annual grassland. The portion of the apron proposed for reconstruction is surrounded by pavement on all sides and no equipment, personnel, or traffic will be allowed beyond the paved areas. Conservation measures including erosion control, limiting construction to the dry season to the greatest extent feasible, restricting all construction equipment, stockpiles and staging areas to paved surfaces, and measures to avoid impacting sensitive species on the airport will be implemented and are outlined below. Avoidance and Minimization Measures The following avoidance and minimization measures will be implemented by the City of Watsonville and its contractors to address potential construction-related impacts:

1. Construction activities will be limited to the dry season, typically May through mid-October; however, unforeseen circumstances may extend work activities into the wet season (Franklin, pers. comm. 2012).

2. No construction activities, including travel ways, parking, or maintenance will occur within 100 feet of any known drainage or wetland feature to be preserved and/or avoided.

3. Construction plans and specifications for all elements of the projects will include provisions for erosion control in the event of non-seasonal or early seasonal rainfall during construction, and for disturbed areas that remain unvegetated during the rainy season.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 4

4. Rainy season erosion control measures will be in place before October 1 of each year. 5. Construction activities will comply with state National Pollutant Discharge Elimination

System permit requirements. 6. The Watsonville Municipal Airport will prepare and implement a detailed erosion control

plan. The plan will implement appropriate erosion control measures during construction and limit ground disturbance activities to dry weather to avoid increased surface water runoff and erosion onsite and sedimentation in sensitive habitats located on and offsite.

7. Temporary adverse effects, such as construction runoff or water quality effects will be avoided by use of best management practices during construction and by directing surface water runoff from paved surfaces into the airport drainage system.

8. During construction of the proposed action, stockpiled topsoil and other construction materials will be placed in the designated storage area south of Aviation Way and will not be placed in areas where materials may erode into drainages through exposure to wind or rain. Runoff from dust control and oil or other chemicals used in construction activities will be retained in the construction site and prevented from flowing into adjacent wetlands or drainages. Runoff will be retained in the construction site by installing appropriate erosion control devices.

9. During construction of the proposed action, the Watsonville Municipal Airport will ensure that construction equipment and vehicles operated in the action area are checked and maintained daily to prevent leaks of fuel, lubricants, or other fluids. The contractor will develop an approved Hazardous Materials Spill Prevention Plan before starting any construction activities.

California Red-Legged Frog and Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander The following measures will be implemented prior to and during construction activities to avoid direct disturbance of adult California red-legged frogs and/or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders that may venture out of breeding sites and move into the project area:

1. An informational guide will be provided to the contractor and any personnel working on the site during the construction activities that explains how to identify the California red-legged frog and the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander and what measures should be taken in the event one of these animals is found in the work area.

2. Grading activities will only be conducted during the dry season (May through mid-October), to the greatest extent feasible, when California red-legged frogs are most likely to be found at intermittent or perennial aquatic sites.

3. Erosion control measures will be implemented; orange construction fencing and straw wattles on the top of the slope to the west of Taxiway C at the location of the natural drainage into Harkins Slough from the construction site will be installed. This will serve as a barrier to individual frogs or salamanders that may attempt to move into the project area.

4. If California red-legged frogs or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders are observed, individuals will be relocated to a Service-approved site located away from construction

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 5

activities. A Service-approved biologist will then monitor all construction activities occurring within or adjacent to wetland habitats throughout the duration of the project. If no California red-legged frogs are observed in the project area, construction activities can proceed, and follow up monitoring is not necessary.

Santa Cruz Tarplant Measures to avoid and minimize impacts to Santa Cruz tarplant will include the following:

1. All construction activities, haul routes, stockpiles, and staging areas will be restricted to existing paved surfaces and the 12-foot unvegetated shoulder of Taxiway C. No construction activities will occur in the adjacent annual grassland and Santa Cruz tarplant habitat.

2. Orange construction fencing will be erected at the outer edge of the 12-foot unvegetated zone. The fencing will remain until construction activities are complete. The purpose of the fencing is to create a visual and physical boundary at the edge of Santa Cruz tarplant habitat.

3. Erosion control measures will be implemented. 4. Dust control water trucks will be utilized throughout construction. 5. Areas on the airport lands will be designated as "management areas" where: (1) existing

habitat of Santa Cruz tarplant will be protected and managed and (2) additional habitat for Santa Cruz tarplant can be created and managed. The management areas will not be developed and are located on land that is unavailable or unsuitable for airport expansion or development due to size or configuration.

6. New populations of Santa Cruz tarplant will be established and maintained in management areas to achieve a 1:1 replacement of both Santa Cruz tarplant numbers and acreage to compensate for the loss of development. The conservation target values will be based on data from the 1993 baseline survey. Strict methods for establishing Santa Cruz tarplant within the management areas will take into consideration seed collection, processing, and storage, site preparation, and seeding at appropriate times of the year. (Note: the Watsonville Municipal Airport does not anticipate any disturbance to Santa Cruz tarplant populations or the need to implement replacement for this project).

7. A Santa Cruz tarplant management, maintenance, and protection program will be established and maintained for the airport. Regular mowing is compatible with Santa Cruz tarplant viability.

8. A monitoring program that monitors between 3 and 5 years for each phase of mitigation will be implemented. The success criteria are to achieve target abundance and target acreage for Santa Cruz tarplant based on the 1993 baseline population census. Performance criteria for the first year of monitoring will be 25 percent of target abundance and acreage, 40 percent for the second year, 60 percent for the third year, 75 percent for the fourth year, and 100 percent for the fifth year. Remedial measures may include revision of the management plan (adaptive management) and consideration of

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 6

expanding management areas to other portions of the airport; however, based on the increase in Santa Cruz tarplant since 1993, performance criteria success is highly expected.

Reporting The Watsonville Municipal Airport proposes to provide the Service with annual reports to describe the progress of implementation of all the commitments in these proposed measures. The reports will include: (1) dates that construction occurred; (2) pertinent information concerning the applicant's success in meeting project compensation measures; (3) an explanation of failure to meet such measures, if any, and recommendations for remedial actions and request for approval from the Service, if necessary; (4) known project effects on federally listed species, if any; (5) occurrences of incidental take of federally listed species, if any; and (6) any other pertinent information. The first report will be submitted by January 31, the first year after any ground disturbance, and annually on January 31 thereafter until all terms and conditions and/ or performance criteria are met. ANALYTICAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE JEOPARDY AND ADVERSE MODIFICATION DETERMINATIONS Jeopardy Determination The jeopardy analysis in this biological opinion relies on four components: (1) the Status of the Species, which describes the range-wide condition of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant, the factors responsible for those conditions, their its survival and recovery needs; (2) the Environmental Baseline, which analyzes the condition of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant in the action area, the factors responsible for those conditions, and the relationship of the action area to the survival and recovery of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant; (3) the Effects of the Action, which determines the direct and indirect impacts of the proposed Federal action and the effects of any interrelated or interdependent activities on the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant; and (4) the Cumulative Effects, which evaluates the effects of future, non-Federal activities in the action area on the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant. In accordance with policy and regulation, the jeopardy determination is made by evaluating the effects of the proposed federal action in the context of the current status of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant, taking into account any cumulative effects, to determine if implementation of the proposed action is likely to cause an appreciable reduction in the likelihood of both the survival and recovery of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant in the wild.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 7 Adverse Modification Determination This biological opinion does not rely on the regulatory definition of “destruction or adverse modification” of critical habitat at 50 CFR 402.02. Instead, we have relied on the statutory provisions of the Act to complete the following analysis with respect to critical habitat. In accordance with policy and regulation, the adverse modification analysis in this biological opinion relies on four components: (1) the Status of Critical Habitat, which describes the range-wide condition of designated critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant in terms of primary constituent elements (PCEs), the factors responsible for that condition, and the intended recovery function of the critical habitat overall; (2) the Environmental Baseline, which analyzes the condition of the critical habitat in the action area, the factors responsible for that condition, and the recovery role of the critical habitat in the action area; (3) the Effects of the Action, which determines the direct and indirect impacts of the proposed Federal action and the effects of any interrelated and interdependent activities on the PCEs and how that will influence the recovery role of the affected critical habitat units; and (4) Cumulative Effects, which evaluates the effects of future non-Federal activities in the action area on the PCEs and how that will influence the recovery role of affected critical habitat units. For purposes of the adverse modification determination, the effects of the proposed federal action on the critical habitat of the Santa Cruz tarplant are evaluated in the context of the range-wide condition of the critical habitat, taking into account any cumulative effects, to determine if the critical habitat range-wide would remain functional (or would retain the current ability for the PCEs to be functionally established in areas of currently unsuitable but capable habitat) to serve its intended recovery role for the Santa Cruz tarplant. STATUS OF THE SPECIES California Red-Legged Frog The California red-legged frog was federally listed as threatened on May 23, 1996 (Service 1996). A recovery plan was published by the Service in 2002 and critical habitat was designated on April 13, 2006. On September 16, 2008, revised designation of critical habitat was proposed to modify critical habitat boundaries to better reflect lands containing essential features for the California red-legged frog (Service 2008). On April 28, 2009, an amended version of the proposed rule was reopened for comments to interested parties (Service 2009a). The final designation of critical habitat for the California red-legged frog was published on March 17, 2010 (Service 2010). Until recently, the California red-legged frog was recognized as two conspecific subspecies, Rana aurora aurora and Rana aurora draytonii. Recent genetic analysis of the Rana aurora/draytonii complex has determined that the two Rana aurora subspecies are in fact separate species (Shaffer et al. 2004, Frost et al. 2006, as cited in Service 2009a); this change in nomenclature was acknowledged in the final rule for revised designation of critical habitat for the California red-legged frog (Service 2010).

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 8 The California red-legged frog is the largest native frog in the western United States, ranging from 1.5 to 5.1 inches in length. The abdomen and hind legs of adults are largely red; the back is characterized by small black flecks and larger, irregular dark blotches with indistinct outlines on a brown, gray, olive, or reddish background color. Dorsal spots usually have light centers, and dorsolateral folds are prominent on the back. Tadpoles range from 0.6 to 3.1 inches in length and are dark brown and yellow with dark spots. California red-legged frogs spend most of their lives in and near sheltered backwaters of ponds, marshes, springs, streams, and reservoirs. Deep pools with dense stands of overhanging willows and an intermixed fringe of cattails are considered optimal habitat. Eggs, larvae, transformed juveniles, and adults also have been found in ephemeral creeks and drainages and in ponds that do not have riparian vegetation. Accessibility to sheltering habitat is essential for the survival of California red-legged frogs within a watershed, and can be a factor limiting population numbers and distribution. Some California red-legged frogs have moved long distances overland between water sources during winter rains. Adult California red-legged frogs have been documented to move in approximately straight lines overland toward target sites, a distance of approximately 1.7 miles in northern Santa Cruz County without apparent regard to topography, vegetation type, or riparian corridors (Bulger et al. 2003). Most of these overland movements occur at night. In another study conducted at the Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreation Area in Marin County, radio tagged frogs often moved in a straight line between breeding and upland habitats of distances presumed up to 1.7 miles, again with no apparent regard to topography. Some of these frogs remained at breeding ponds all year, while others moved to non-breeding areas, even when the breeding sites retained water (Fellers and Kleeman 2007). California red-legged frogs breed from November through March with earlier breeding records occurring in southern localities. California red-legged frogs are often prolific breeders, typically laying their eggs during or shortly after large rainfall events in late winter and early spring. Female California red-legged frogs deposit egg masses on emergent vegetation so that the masses float on the surface of the water. Egg masses contain about 2,000 to 5,000 moderate-sized (0.08 to 0.11 inch in diameter), dark reddish-brown eggs. Embryos hatch 6 to 14 days after fertilization. Larvae generally undergo metamorphosis 3.5 to 7 months after hatching, but some larvae overwinter and metamorphose after up to 13 months (Fellers et al. 2001). Tadpoles probably experience the highest mortality rates of all life stages, with less than 1 percent of eggs laid reaching metamorphosis. Sexual maturity normally is reached at 3 to 4 years of age. California red-legged frogs may live 8 to 12 years. Juveniles can be active diurnally and nocturnally, whereas adults are mainly nocturnal. The diet of California red-legged frogs is highly variable. Invertebrates are the most common food items for adults, although vertebrates such as Pacific treefrogs (Pseudacris regilla) and California mice (Peromyscus californicus) can constitute over half of the prey mass eaten by larger frogs (Hayes and Tennant 1985). Larvae eat algae and detritus.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 9 The historical range of the California red-legged frog extended coastally from southern Mendocino County and inland from the vicinity of Redding, California, southward to northwestern Baja California, Mexico (Jennings and Hayes 1985, Storer 1925). The California red-legged frog has been extirpated or nearly extirpated from 70 percent of its former range. Historically, this subspecies was found throughout the Central Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills. California red-legged frogs have been documented in 46 counties in California, but now remain in only 238 streams or drainages in 31 counties in California and one region in Baja California, Mexico (Grismer 2002, Fidenci 2004, Smith and Krofta 2005, Service 2009a). Over-harvesting, habitat loss, nonnative species introduction, and urban encroachment are the primary factors that have negatively affected the California red-legged frog throughout its range (Jennings and Hayes 1985, Hayes and Jennings 1988). Ongoing causes of decline include direct habitat loss due to stream alteration and disturbance to wetland areas, indirect effects of expanding urbanization, and competition or predation from nonnative species. Other causes of declines in amphibian species have been studied by Davidson et al. (2001). Results indicate that ozone depletion resulting in an increase in ultraviolet radiation is a potential factor of amphibian decline. In addition, upwind pesticides and/or other chemicals used for agricultural purposes have been identified as factors in a number of declining California amphibians. An additional threat affecting amphibians worldwide is the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis causes chytridiomycosis, a skin disease that has been found to disrupt osmoregulatory function in the skin of amphibians, resulting in an imbalance of electrolytes and death (Voyles et al. 2009). Chytridiomycosis in amphibians may be marked by deformed mouthparts in tadpoles, wherein most infected tadpoles will die at metamorphosis (Service 2002a). Infected boreal toads (Anaxyrus boreas boreas) showed few clinical signs of the disease but many appeared weak or lethargic, exhibited excessive shedding of skin and were reluctant to flee at the approach of humans (U.S. Geological Service 2000, as cited in Service 2002a). Chytrid fungi are widespread in the environment where they act as decomposers of keratin, chitin, cellulose, and other plant material, and are known parasites of fungi, algae, higher plants, protozoa, invertebrates, and most recently in vertebrates. Chytrid fungi reproduce asexually by means of minute, fragile, motile spores, and are probably spread directly from amphibian to amphibian in water. These fungi most likely move from one water source to another on migrating amphibians, waterbirds, or flying insects (Daszak et al. 1999 as cited in Service 2002a). Since its discovery in 1998, chytrid fungus has likely been responsible for die-offs of a number of amphibian species, including remaining populations of the endangered boreal toad (Bufo boreas boreas) in the southern Rocky Mountains, and Chiricahua leopard frogs (Rana chiricahuensis) in Arizona (Colorado Herpetological Society 2000, as cited in Service 2002a). Occurrences of infection have been observed in two amphibian species in the Sierra Nevada, the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) and the Yosemite toad (Bufo canoris). An infected California red-legged frog tadpole was collected in Calabasas Pond on the Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge in Santa Cruz County (Service 2002a).

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 10 The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is now recognized for its ability to spread quickly through amphibian populations and infect numerous species, causing high rates of mortality, and persisting at low host densities (Voyles et al. 2009). These recent findings validate the importance of taking precautions to prevent the spread of chytrid fungus or any disease agent into and/or between amphibian populations. Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander The Santa Cruz long-toed salamander was federally listed as endangered on March 11, 1967 under the Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966 (Service 1967). The Draft Revised Recovery Plan for the Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander was published by the Service in April of 1999 (Service 1999) and designation of critical habitat was proposed on June 22, 1978 (Service 1978). Information in the following species account was obtained primarily from Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum) 5-Year Review: Summary and Evaluation (Service 2009b). The Santa Cruz long-toed salamander is a small dark-colored salamander of the family Ambystomatidae. The adults have an average snout-to-vent length of 1.7 to 2.8 inches, with an average total length of 4.2 to 6.0 inches and weigh approximately 0.1 to 0.4 ounce. This subspecies differs from subspecies Ambystoma macrodactylum macrodactylum by its dull orange or metallic yellow dorsal markings (a series of discrete, irregular patches), and by greatly reduced dorsal head markings of small scattered dots, which are often absent, anterior to the eyes (Ferguson 1961; Stebbins 1966, 1985). The ventral surface is sooty black. The vomerine teeth (located on the roof of the mouth) form a continuous or broken row. Differences in biochemistry (Sage 1978), physiology, and life history traits (Anderson 1960, 1967, 1968a, 1968b, 1972a, 1972b, 1972c) support the separation of the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander as a distinct species; however, until a more thorough investigation of the genetics of the species is conducted and a revision of the taxonomy published in a peer-reviewed journal, Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders will continue to be considered a subspecies of long-toed salamander (A. macrodactylum). The Santa Cruz long-toed salamander utilizes terrestrial and aquatic habitats during the course of its life cycle. Terrestrial habitats include upland mesic coastal scrub and woodland areas of coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) or Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) and riparian vegetation, such as arroyo willows (Salix lasiolepis). The Santa Cruz long-toed salamander spends most of its life underground in burrows of small mammals, under leaf litter, rotten logs, fallen branches, and among the root systems of trees. Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders breed in shallow, usually ephemeral, freshwater ponds. Some breeding sites are ephemeral, while others contain water throughout the year. (Boone et al. 2002). During the onset of winter rains, post-metamorphic juveniles (metamorphs) disperse farther away from the breeding pond, and do not return until they reach sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age (Ruth 1988; Laabs 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003). Based on data from pitfall trap studies at a known breeding pond and adjacent uplands, Biosearch (2002) estimated that between 26 to 36 percent of the adult population of Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders at the pond traveled at least 1,100 feet to reach suitable upland habitat.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 11 Biosearch recaptured 49 percent of the adult Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders that were originally captured along the same drift fence and marked while migrating toward the breeding pond. This high recapture rate suggests that adult Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders return to the uplands areas from which they migrated previously in the breeding season (Service 2009b). To date, 24 breeding sites for Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders have been identified; 17 in southern Santa Cruz County, and 7 in northern Monterey County. At the time of listing, the subspecies was known from three sites in Santa Cruz County. Fifteen of the known 24 locations have been protected from development through various methods such as habitat conservation plans, conservation easements, or ownership under various conservation agencies or organizations. Nine of the known breeding locations are not ensured protection from development and are not being managed for Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders. Although 15 sites are protected from development, one of these is presumed extirpated due to increasing salinity, and threats are present at all remaining sites. Due to the discovery of additional breeding sites since the draft recovery plan was published, the Service currently recognizes 6 metapopulations that require protection and management. These metapopulations include: Valencia-Seascape, Ellicott-Buena Vista, Freedom, Larkin Valley, McClusky, and Elkhorn, which account for all known occurrences of the subspecies (Service 2009b). While recent genetic research is thus far preliminary, it provides strong evidence that each metapopulation is isolated, and therefore unable to exchange migrants, resulting in population genetic isolation and reductions in gene flow. Animal populations can be severely affected by reduced genetic variability, particularly when gene flow is reduced and census population sizes are low. These conditions place any one breeding deme at an increased risk of local extirpation resulting from the inability to adapt to new threats such as climate change, disease, or various stochastic events. The likelihood of recolonization from other sites if a local extinction occurs is low because of habitat fragmentation. Additionally, population studies have been completed only sporadically since the time of listing, and only at 10 of the known breeding locations. The lack of population and genetic studies at the majority of these locations leaves little knowledge on breeding and recruitment success at each site, as well as whether genetic exchange between subpopulations is occurring. There is concern regarding the success of genetic exchange and recruitment and the prospect of extirpations throughout portions of the subspecies range (Service 2009b). Prior to large-scale urbanization and conversion of lands for agricultural uses, it is probable that suitable upland sheltering and dispersal habitats were more widespread and contiguous in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Similarly, freshwater marshes and vernal pools likely occurred in greater abundance, in comparison to the present. Terrestrial and aquatic habitats suitable for Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders have been removed and altered due to urbanization and agricultural activities, and barriers to dispersal have been created, resulting in subpopulations which are isolated from each other. New breeding sites for the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander are likely to be discovered, due to the amount of unsurveyed, privately-owned habitat in the region (Service 2009b).

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 12 The primary threats, which include habitat degradation and fragmentation due to urbanization and agriculture, continue to constrain the subspecies with limited upland habitat for dispersal and little connectivity between breeding locations. Amphibian populations naturally undergo large fluctuations in population size as a result of random natural events such as drought and fire. Their ability to recover from these events is dependent upon year-to-year survival of larvae and adults, the presence of refugia to endure natural events and escape predators, and successful reproduction during years of adequate rainfall. The loss of upland habitats and the loss of individuals through agricultural and development activities can leave small populations that are unable to withstand decreases in size as a result of such events (Service 2009b). Other factors affecting the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander include the effects of drought, mortality on roads, and contaminants. As urban areas continue to expand, roads continue to fragment remaining habitat and increase the threat of pollution from run-off into known or potential breeding sites. Mortality on roads is a threat faced by nearly all Santa Cruz long-toed salamander subpopulations, and has been widely documented as contributing to the increasing decline of amphibians worldwide, particularly in populated areas. Disease and predation continue to threaten the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander; although the direct effect of disease on Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders is unknown, several pathogenic agents have been associated with die-offs of closely related salamander species. Native and nonnative predators are present at several of the known breeding ponds. In healthy salamander populations, predation by native species is not known to be a significant threat; however, when combined with other impacts, such as predation by nonnative species, contaminants, or habitat alteration, the cumulative result may be a substantive decrease in population abundance and viability (Service 2009b). Santa Cruz Tarplant The Santa Cruz tarplant was federally listed as threatened on March 20, 2000 (Service 2000), and critical habitat was designated on October 16, 2002 (Service 2002b). Santa Cruz tarplant is an aromatic annual herb in the aster family (Asteraceae), and is one of only four species of the genus Holocarpha, all geographically restricted to California. Santa Cruz tarplant occurs in coastal terrace prairie habitat along the coast of central California in Contra Costa, Santa Cruz, and Monterey Counties. Santa Cruz tarplant is an upright annual plant, standing no higher than 2 feet tall, and is distinguished from other members of the genus by its numerous ray flowers and black anthers. Like many tarplants, Santa Cruz tarplant is strongly scented and produces a sticky resin (Kiel 1993, Hayes 1998). Flowering from July to October, the inflorescences comprise yellow ray and disc flowers. Most seeds remain on the plant until the first significant rain (0.6 to 1.2 inches) in late autumn (Service 2002b, Holl and Hayes 2006). The basal rosette increases in size until approximately June, when plants produce a stem that reaches a height of 11.8 to 31.5 inches. Plants produce 1 to 60 inflorescences that have two types of achenes (seeds) with different morphologies and requirements for germination. Seeds from the ray flowers have a thicker seed coat, long-term dormancy, and complex germination cues; whereas seeds from the disk flowers

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 13 are lighter, and narrower. Neither type of seed appears to have a structural means for dispersal, (Holl and Hayes 2006), though it is possible that some ray seeds may be dispersed over long distances by animals (Satterthwaite et al. 2007). Results of studies indicate that disk seeds produced by Santa Cruz tarplant germinate within a year of production while ray seeds form persistent seed banks. The precise length of time Santa Cruz tarplant seed banks remain viable is unknown, though there is an account of Santa Cruz tarplant seedlings emerging from a pile of soil scraped from a construction site 8 years after it last hosted adult plants. It is possible that seed bank survival is high, since seeds known to be at least 15 years old have successfully germinated (Satterthwaite et al. 2007). Santa Cruz tarplant is self-incompatible, meaning that individuals will not produce viable seeds without cross pollinating with other individuals (Baldwin, in litt. 2001). Gene flow from individual to individual and from population to population increases the likelihood of viability by maintaining genetic diversity; therefore, gene flow is essential for the long-term survival of self-incompatible species (Ellstrand 1992). Historically, habitat for Santa Cruz tarplant occurred on grasslands and prairies found on coastal terraces in elevations below 330 feet, from Monterey County, north to Contra Costa and Marin Counties. Santa Cruz tarplant was known from “low dry fields about San Francisco Bay” (Jepson 1925). Early herbarium collections were made in Santa Cruz County in 1881, Marin County in 1883, Alameda County in 1891, San Francisco County in 1916, and in Contra Costa County in 1974 (Service 2000, Consortium of California Herbaria 2010). At the time of listing in 2000, Santa Cruz tarplant was known from 12 natural and 8 experimentally seeded populations, in the counties of Contra Costa, Monterey, and Santa Cruz (Hayes 1998, Service 2000). In July of 2000, a population of Santa Cruz tarplant was discovered at the Santa Cruz Armory (De Laveaga population) during a rare plant survey, with estimated plant numbers at several thousand and stable (Olson 2003, J. Olson, California Army National Guard, pers. comm. 2010). In addition, a small population of Santa Cruz tarplant was noted in a survey conducted in 2008, when 59 individuals were observed on a Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) easement just east of Atkinson Lane in the City of Watsonville (EcoSystems West 2008). Habitat for the last naturally occurring population in the San Francisco Bay area was converted to a shopping center in 1993 (CDFG 1997, (California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) 1997). Seeds taken from the population were transplanted into locations in suitable habitat in the Wildcat Canyon Regional Park in Contra Costa County between 1982 and 1986 (Service 2000, 2002b). The current number of known natural populations is 14; 13 in Santa Cruz County, and 1 in Monterey County, and the 8 experimentally planted populations in Contra Costa County. The 14 natural and 8 experimentally seeded populations comprise the entirety of known populations of Santa Cruz tarplant today. Population numbers fluctuate annually; however, many populations of Santa Cruz tarplant have decreased in numbers over time. With the exception of the Watsonville Municipal Airport (Santa Cruz County) and Mezue (Contra Costa County) populations, most populations of Santa Cruz tarplant show numbers in the hundreds or less, some having had no aboveground plants expressed in recent years.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 14 Historically, most extirpations of Santa Cruz tarplant populations were caused by residential and commercial development. A number of populations continue to be threatened by development and lack of management of the rare coastal prairie and grassland habitat that supports Santa Cruz tarplant. In addition, the Arana Gulch population is genetically distinct, which heightens the urgency of managing and protecting that habitat to better support the species. Habitat alteration and destruction caused by development; presence of (and competition with) nonnative, invasive vegetation; lack of proper ecological disturbance; and changes in hydrology continue to pose a threat to Santa Cruz tarplant and its habitat. In addition, limited reproductive success and stochastic extinction remain relevant threats to the species. Grasslands and coastal prairies that are essential habitat for Santa Cruz tarplant continue to be increasingly fragmented and affected by humans (Buisson et al. 2006). Stochastic extinction is currently a greater threat than at the time of listing, as population numbers and potential genetic viability of Santa Cruz tarplant continue to decline. Climate change is a potential new threat that we have identified since the time of listing. Of these, habitat alteration and destruction and competition with and the presence of nonnative, invasive vegetation appear to be primary threats to the species. The steady decline of populations of Santa Cruz tarplant since it was listed in 2000, and lack of knowledge of existing seed bank size and viability, are causes for concern for the survival of the species overall. Santa Cruz Tarplant Critical Habitat Critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant was designated on October 16, 2002 (Service 2002b). The critical habitat encompasses 2,902 acres in Contra Costa, Monterey, and Santa Cruz Counties, California. In accordance with section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act and regulations at 50 CFR 424.12, in determining which areas to designate as critical habitat, we consider those physical and biological features (primary constituent elements) that are essential to the conservation of the species, and within areas occupied by the species at the time of listing, that may require special management considerations and protection. These include, but are not limited to: space for individual and population growth and for normal behavior; food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or shelter; sites for breeding, reproduction, and rearing (or development) of offspring; and, habitats that are protected from disturbance or are representative of the historic geographical and ecological distributions of a species. For critical habitat of the Santa Cruz tarplant, the Service identifies the following features essential to the conservation of the species: soils associated with coastal terrace prairies, including the Watsonville, Tierra, Elkhorn, Santa Inez, and Pinto series; plant communities that support associated species, including native grasses such as needlegrass (Nassella sp.) and California oatgrass (Danthonia californica); native herbaceous species such as members of the genus Hemizonia (other tarplants), Gairdner's yampah (Perideridia gairdneri), San Francisco popcorn flower (Plagiobothrys diffuses), and Santa Cruz clover (Trifolium buckwestiorum); and physical

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 15 processes, particularly soils and hydrologic processes, that maintain the soil structure and hydrology that produce the seasonally saturated soils characteristic of Santa Cruz tarplant habitat. Designated critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant consists of 11 units divided into 3 major geographic areas, comprising the Santa Cruz-Soquel Area Unit, Watsonville Area Unit, and the East Bay Area Unit (Service 2002b). The project-specific critical habitat unit is described in greater detail in the Environmental Baseline section of this document. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE The implementing regulations for section 7(a)(2) of the Act define the "action area" as all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and not merely the immediate area involved in the action (50 Code of Federal Regulations 402.02). For the purposes of this biological opinion, we consider the action area to include all areas where people and equipment would be working within the project footprint, and the grassland/upland and Santa Cruz tarplant habitat surrounding Taxiway C and the apron. The Watsonville Municipal Airport is located on approximately 350 acres, north and south of Highway 1, approximately 1.5 miles west of downtown Watsonville in Santa Cruz County, California. The airport is located along the central coast, approximately 2.5 miles northeast of the Pacific Ocean. Site elevations range between 60 feet in the southern portion of the airport property and 140 feet in the northern portion. The majority of the airport property supports grassland habitat, as well as paved areas and buildings that are part of the past and current airport operations. The airport also supports land uses such as a shooting range west of the north-south runway and a golf driving range south of Highway 1. Harkins Slough runs through the southern portion of the airport property, south of Highway 1. Evidence of historic and ongoing maintenance, including mowing, occurs throughout the airport. Adjacent land uses include commercial, industrial, and residential. Higher density residential and commercial land uses occur further to the east; while rural residential, agricultural, and undeveloped land uses occur further to the west. Highway 1 bisects the southern portion of the airport property. A tributary to Harkins Slough runs south along the western boundary. Wetland swales, streams, and Harkins Slough continue offsite to the south and east. California Red-Legged Frog In the general vicinity of the airport, California red-legged frogs have been documented in Watsonville Slough and Hanson Slough, as well as in the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander Reserve, located approximately 2 miles west of Watsonville at Ellicott Pond. Based on the known occurrence of the species within the vicinity of the airport property, and the presence of suitable aquatic habitat, it is expected that portions of the airport property could support California red-legged frogs. The tributary to Harkins Slough located west of the project area has the potential to support California red-legged frogs, though this species has not been documented in this waterway (Helix and Wallace 2011).

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 16 The proposed reconstruction of Taxiway C is located 520 feet upslope of the tributary and the apron rehabilitation area is even further away from Harkins Slough (Appendix B (Helix and Wallace 2011)). Photographs of the area between the riparian area and the Taxiway show a gradual rising grass slope with a linear distance of 520 feet (Helix and Wallace 2011). Surveys for California red-legged frog were not conducted in the riparian area. As described in the status of the species, it has been documented that California red-legged frogs will travel greater than 1 mile to targeted locations without regard to topography, vegetation type, or riparian corridors (Bulger et al. 2003, Fellers and Kleeman 2007); therefore, if California red-legged frogs are present in the riparian area to the west of the project site, there is potential for them to disperse up the gradual slope and 520 feet between the riparian area and the project site. As depicted in the photographs, this area consists of grassland that could provide upland habitat for the California red-legged frog and would be accessible if frogs are present (Appendix B). Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander The Santa Cruz long-toed salamander is known in the vicinity from three population clusters in southwestern Santa Cruz County and north of Elkhorn Slough in Monterey County (Stebbins 1985 as cited in Helix and Wallace 2011). Due to the discovery of additional breeding sites since the draft recovery plan was published in 1999, the Service currently recognizes 6 metapopulations that require protection and management. These metapopulations include: Valencia-Seascape, Ellicott-Buena Vista, Freedom, Larkin Valley, McClusky, and Elkhorn, which account for all known occurrences of the subspecies. The metapopulations occur within approximately 3 to 5 miles of the action area. The Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 2 miles west of the action area and supports important breeding and upland habitat for Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, consisting of two large ephemeral ponds and adjacent willow thickets, oak woodland, and chaparral. The CNDDB documents 12 known occurrences of Santa Cruz long-toed salamander in the general region of the airport (Helix and Wallace 2011). The amended biological supplement reports the presence of pools within the airport property, consisting of perennial stock ponds located near the tributary to Harkins Slough and a perennial pond located west and up-slope of Harkins Slough. Neither of these ponds exhibit characteristics considered suitable for Santa Cruz long-toed salamander breeding. The northern-most portion of the airport property, adjacent to the active airfield area, does not contain any aquatic habitat that would be considered suitable for breeding for Santa Cruz long-toed salamander; however, due to the proximity of known breeding sites and because Santa Cruz long-toed salamander surveys were not conducted in the pond and wetland areas and presence of the species has been presumed; there is a possibility that Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders could be within dispersal distance of the project area. Santa Cruz Tarplant The Watsonville Municipal Airport supports the largest extant population of Santa Cruz tarplant; this is likely due to the airport's long-term, ongoing management practices (JGA 2007). The

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 17 Santa Cruz tarplant population was first quantitatively inventoried at the airport in 1993. The number of tarplant individuals was estimated at approximately 459,000 plants occupying 35.72 acres. In 1993, the airport altered its mowing regime to promote the spread of tarplant by adjusting blade height and timing of maintenance mowing to avoid impacts to the tarplant. In fall 1995, Airport staff began a program to establish tarplant in areas of the airport where it did not occur. The purpose of the program was to determine the feasibility of relocating tarplant and maintaining relocation populations over time, with the goal of mitigating for potential loss of tarplant due to airport expansion. As a result of these maintenance practices, the number of tarplant individuals and acreage increased. Additional population censuses were performed in 1994, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001. The last comprehensive survey, in 2001, estimated 2,496,709 tarplant individuals over 39.56 acres (JGA 2007 as cited in Helix and Wallace 2011). The areas surrounding Taxiway C and the apron are currently occupied by Santa Cruz tarplant. Santa Cruz Tarplant Critical Habitat The action area for the proposed project is within designated critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant, and is located in critical habitat Unit I (Watsonville). Unit I comprises approximately 1,205 acres (41.5 percent) of the approximately 2,902 acres of total designated critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant. Unit I consists of grasslands on alluvial fans and marine terraces west of the City of Watsonville in Santa Cruz County. The northern and eastern boundaries reach toward the Corralitos Creek drainage except where it runs up against existing development. The southeastern and southern boundary is formed by the Pajaro River drainage. The western boundary is formed by the Harkins Slough drainage and then generally follows Buena Vista Drive north until it intersects with the northern perimeter of the Watsonville Municipal Airport. This unit excludes paved areas of the Airport, but includes the unpaved portions surrounding the runways. Unit I is under various ownership: approximately 309 acres is owned by the City of Watsonville (the airport and high school); approximately 19 acres is under easement to Caltrans; approximately 37 acres is designated as a reserve by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG); and the remaining approximately 840 acres is privately owned. This unit is essential because it currently supports multiple populations of Santa Cruz tarplant. This unit also supports grassland habitat that is important for the expansion of existing populations and for maintaining connectivity between the populations. It is also one of only three areas that support populations of Santa Cruz tarplant that are found in the central Monterey Bay area and in the southern end of the range of the species. Preserving any genetic variability within the species that has allowed it to adapt to these slightly different environmental conditions is essential for the long-term survival and conservation of the species. The approximately 222-acre portion of the Watsonville Municipal Airport that occurs within Unit I is located northeast of Highway 1 (Appendix C). This portion of Unit I includes the developed airport runways and taxiways and consists of a mixture of developed and disturbed areas and natural plant communities. Most of the critical habitat area supports a grassland community. During a site visit by North Fork Associates in 2007, Santa Cruz tarplant was flowering and observed across the grassland areas of the airport. Portions of the grassland are dominated by perennial bunchgrasses, with native species such as California oat grass and purple

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 18 needle grass (Nassella pulchra). The areas not dominated by perennial bunchgrasses are dominated by nonnative grasses and forbs. Other rare plants on the airport include small populations of San Francisco popcorn flower (State endangered, California Native Plant Society (CNPS) List lB.l) and artist's popcorn flower (Plagiobothrys chorisianus var. chorisianus) (CNPS List lB.2) (JGA 2007). EFFECTS OF THE ACTION California Red-Legged Frog and Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander All California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders that occur in the action area could be adversely affected by project activities. Movement of construction equipment, pulverizing and repaving of the proposed taxiway and apron, grading, clearing, and stockpiling activities, and use of other work areas, could result in harm or harassment to adult and/or sub adult California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders caused by disturbance from work activities and mortality or injury from crushing by equipment or vehicles and worker foot traffic. Noise and vibration may cause California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders to leave the work areas; this disturbance and displacement may increase the potential for predation, desiccation, competition for food and shelter, or strike by vehicles. These effects would be avoided or minimized by (1) presence of a Service-approved biological monitor during construction who will oversee implementation of appropriate avoidance and minimization measures, including capture and relocation of individuals as necessary; (2) placement of flagging, signage, exclusion and/or high visibility fencing around California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander habitat; (3) minimizing potential impacts from crushing and trampling by foot traffic and vehicle access by restricting vehicles and work activities to existing pavement, clearly marking routes and boundaries of work areas; and (4) restricting work activities to the dry season to the greatest extent feasible; however, there is a possibility that work activities may adversely affect these species if they are present in the work area and not detected before construction commences, if unforeseen circumstances extend work activities into the wet season, and/or if an unseasonable rain event occurs and frogs and salamanders migrate through the project area. Use of orange construction fencing could inadvertently harass, harm, or kill California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders if they are attempting to disperse and their movements are restricted by the fencing, if they attempt to climb the fencing and are injured, or if they attempt to move through the fence and become entangled in the material or are able to enter the work area. The use of fencing to exclude frogs and salamanders may also increase the potential for predation and/or desiccation if they are trapped by the barrier and cannot disperse to find cover. Uninformed workers could disturb, injure, or kill California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders. The potential for this to occur would be minimized by providing an informational guide to the contractor and any personnel working on the site during the

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 19 construction activities that explains how to identify the California red-legged frog and the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander. Trash left during or after vegetation clearance activities may attract predators to work sites, which could, in turn, prey on California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders. For example, raccoons (Procyon lotor), coyotes (Canis latrans), and feral cats (Felis catus) are attracted to trash and also prey opportunistically on California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders. Accidental spills of hazardous materials or careless fueling or oiling of vehicles or equipment and/or runoff from construction activities could degrade water quality or upland habitat to a degree where California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders are harmed or killed. These impacts would be minimized by: (1) ensuring that construction equipment and vehicles operated in the action area are checked and maintained daily to prevent leaks of fuel, lubricants, or other fluids; (2) development of an approved Hazardous Materials Spill Prevention Plan before starting any construction activities; and (3) by directing surface water runoff from paved surfaces into the airport drainage system and preventing runoff from flowing into adjacent wetlands or drainages. During erosion control activities, application of certain netting materials, such as plastic monofilament netting, could harm, injure, or kill California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders as they can become entrapped in the material. Although survivorship for translocated California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders has not been estimated, survivorship of translocated wildlife, in general, is reduced due to intraspecific competition, lack of familiarity with the location of potential breeding, feeding, and sheltering habitats, and increased risk of predation. Observations of diseased and parasite-infected amphibians are now frequently reported. Releasing amphibians following a period of captivity, during which time they can be exposed to infections of disease agents, may cause an increased risk of mortality in wild populations. Amphibian pathogens and parasites can also be carried between habitats on the hands, footwear, or equipment of fieldworkers, which can spread them to localities containing species which have had little or no prior contact with such pathogens or parasites. Chytrid fungus can be spread through direct contact between aquatic animals and by a spore that can move short distances through the water. Infected animals may spread the fungal spores to other ponds and streams before they die. Once a pond has become infected with chytrid fungus, the fungus stays in the water for an undetermined amount of time. Relocation of individuals captured from the project area could contribute to the spread of chytrid fungus or other disease. In addition, infected equipment or footwear could introduce chytrid fungus into areas where it did not previously occur. Santa Cruz Tarplant Taxiway and apron reconstruction activities may result in direct mortality or temporary loss of Santa Cruz tarplant by crushing or trampling if heavy equipment or personnel encroaches into

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 20 the population, or by inadvertent contamination or overwatering by construction runoff. Additionally, the effects of dust on vegetation may include impairment of photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, and/or growth. These effects would be avoided or minimized by:(1) restricting all construction activities, haul routes, stockpiles, and staging areas to existing paved surfaces with limited activity in the 12-foot unvegetated shoulder of Taxiway C, allowing no construction activities in the adjacent annual grassland and Santa Cruz tarplant habitat; (2) erecting orange construction fencing at the outer edge of the 12-foot unvegetated zone to create a visual and physical boundary at the edge of Santa Cruz tarplant habitat until construction activities are complete; (3) by directing surface water runoff from paved surfaces into the airport drainage system and preventing runoff from flowing into adjacent wetlands or drainages; and (4) implementation of erosion control measures and dust control water trucks. In addition, management areas will be designated where existing habitat of Santa Cruz tarplant on the airport property will continue to be protected and managed, and where additional habitat can be created and managed. These managed areas will not be developed and are located on land that is unavailable or unsuitable for airport expansion or development due to size or configuration. Because the project has been proposed to be restricted to within only paved areas and unvegetated shoulders, the amount of Santa Cruz tarplant that may be affected by project activities, if any, would be minimal. Though the FAA and the Watsonville Airport do not anticipate disturbance of Santa Cruz tarplant due to the proposed project, if loss from development occurs, the Watsonville Airport proposes to establish and maintain new populations of Santa Cruz tarplant in management areas to achieve a 1:1 replacement of both Santa Cruz tarplant numbers and acreage to compensate for the loss. Strict methods for establishing Santa Cruz tarplant within the management areas will take into consideration seed collection, processing, and storage, site preparation, and seeding at appropriate times of the year. A Santa Cruz tarplant management, maintenance, and protection program will be established and maintained for the airport, as described in the amended biological supplement for the project. Santa Cruz Tarplant Critical Habitat Reconstruction of Taxiway C and the general aviation apron would affect approximately 1.7 acres of paved areas and the unpaved shoulders on each side of the pavement. Critical habitat for Santa Cruz tarplant in Unit I excludes paved areas of the Watsonville Municipal Airport, but includes the unpaved portions surrounding the runways. Work is proposed to be restricted to only paved areas with limited activity on the unpaved shoulders; therefore, the amount of actual critical habitat directly affected by project activities would be within the existing 12-foot unpaved shoulders maintained by the airport, and indirect effects may occur outside of the unpaved shoulders in Santa Cruz tarplant critical habitat. The installation of five sign pads in the existing 12-foot shoulder, the presence and operation of construction vehicles, foot traffic by personnel, erosion, accumulation of dust, and potential runoff from construction activities may affect Santa Cruz tarplant critical habitat by disturbing processes that maintain the soil structure and hydrology that produce the seasonally saturated soils characteristic of Santa Cruz tarplant habitat. These effects would be avoided or minimized by (1) restricting all construction

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 21 activities, haul routes, stockpiles, and staging areas to existing paved surfaces with limited activity in the 12-foot unvegetated shoulder of Taxiway C, allowing no construction activities in the adjacent annual grassland and Santa Cruz tarplant habitat; (2) erecting orange construction fencing at the outer edge of the 12-foot unvegetated zone to create a visual and physical boundary at the edge of Santa Cruz tarplant habitat until construction activities are complete; (3) directing surface water runoff from paved surfaces into the airport drainage system and preventing runoff from flowing into adjacent wetlands or drainages; (4) implementation of erosion and dust control measures; (5) designation of management areas where existing habitat of Santa Cruz tarplant on the airport property will continue to be protected and managed, and where additional habitat can be created and managed; and (6) reduction of the width of Taxiway C from 50 feet to 35 feet, creating an additional 7.5 feet of unpaved surface on both sides of the taxiway. CUMULATIVE EFFECTS Cumulative effects include the effects of future State, tribal, local, or private actions that are reasonably certain to occur in the action area considered in this biological opinion. Future Federal actions that are unrelated to the proposed action are not considered in this section because they require separate consultation pursuant to section 7 of the Act. We are unaware of any non-Federal actions that are reasonably certain to occur in the action area that would adversely affect the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant. CONCLUSION After reviewing the current status of California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, Santa Cruz tarplant, and critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant, the environmental baseline for the action area, the effects of the proposed Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway Reconstruction Project and the cumulative effects, it is the Service's biological opinion that the Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway Reconstruction Project, as proposed, is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant, and is not likely to destroy or adversely modify designated critical habitat for the Santa Cruz tarplant. We have based this conclusion on the following:

1. The FAA has proposed avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to California red-legged frog, Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, and Santa Cruz tarplant.

2. Few, if any California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders are likely to be present in the project area and/or injured or killed due to project activities.

3. Impacts of the project on Santa Cruz tarplant and Santa Cruz tarplant critical habitat will be limited to portions of the unpaved shoulders bordering the paved portions of the

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 22

runway. In addition, management areas will be designated where existing habitat of Santa Cruz tarplant on the airport property will continue to be protected and managed, and where additional habitat can be created and managed.

INCIDENTAL TAKE STATEMENT

Section 9 of the Act and Federal regulation pursuant to section 4(d) of the Act prohibit the take of endangered and threatened wildlife species, respectively, without special exemption. Take is defined as to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct. Harm is further defined by the Service to include significant habitat modification or degradation that results in death or injury to listed species by significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns, including breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Harass is defined by the Service as an intentional or negligent act or omission which creates the likelihood of injury to wildlife by annoying it to such an extent as to significantly disrupt normal behavioral patterns which include, but are not limited to, breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Incidental take is defined as take that is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the carrying out of an otherwise lawful activity. Under the terms of section 7(b)(4) and section 7(o)(2), taking that is incidental to and not intended as part of the agency action is not considered to be prohibited taking under the Act provided that such taking is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this incidental take statement. Sections 7(b)(4) and 7(o)(2) of the Act generally do not apply to listed plant species. Consequently, this biological opinion does not contain an incidental take statement for the Santa Cruz tarplant. However, limited protection of listed plants is provided to the extent that the Act prohibits the removal and reduction to possession of federally listed endangered plants or the malicious damage of such plants on areas under Federal jurisdiction, or the destruction of endangered plants on non-Federal areas in violation of State Law or regulation or in the course of any violation of a State criminal trespass law. The measures described below are non-discretionary, and must be undertaken by the FAA so that they become binding conditions of any grant or permit issued to the Watsonville Municipal Airport, as appropriate, for the exemption in section 7(o)(2) to apply. The FAA has a continuing duty to regulate the activity covered by this incidental take statement. If the FAA (1) fails to assume and implement the terms and conditions or (2) fails to require the Watsonville Municipal Airport to adhere to the terms and conditions of the incidental take statement through enforceable terms that are added to the permit or grant document, the protective coverage of section 7(o)(2) may lapse. To monitor the impact of incidental take, the FAA or the Watsonville Municipal Airport must report the progress of the action and its impact on the species to the Service as specified in the incidental take statement. [50 CFR 402.14(i)(3)] The Service anticipates all California red-legged frogs and/or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders in construction areas would be subject to take as a result of project activities. Take would occur in the form of capture during relocation activities and in the form of harassment, harm, injury, or death as a result of construction activities if they are accidentally wounded during relocation or

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 23 are unable to be collected for relocation and remain in active construction areas, or if an unseasonal rain event occurs and California red-legged frogs and/or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders are dispersing through the area during work activities. Incidental take of California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders will be difficult to detect because of their small body size and use of aquatic habitat and underground burrows; therefore, finding a dead or injured specimen is unlikely. California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders injured or killed during translocation efforts are likely to be observed; however, mortality from other sources, including the indirect effects of translocation, would be difficult to observe. The observed number of California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders taken may be lower than the actual number taken. If one California red-legged frog or one Santa Cruz long-toed salamander is found dead or injured during construction activities, the FAA must contact our office immediately so we can review the project activities to determine if additional protective measures are needed. In instances where the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded, the exemption issued pursuant to section 7(o)(2) will have lapsed and any further take would be a violation of section 4(d) or 9. Consequently, we recommend that any operations causing such take cease pending reinitiation. REASONABLE AND PRUDENT MEASURES The Service believes the following reasonable and prudent measures are necessary and appropriate to minimize the impacts of the incidental take of California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders:

1. The FAA must ensure that the level of incidental take that occurs during project implementation is commensurate with the analysis contained herein.

2. Biologists must be authorized by the Service before they survey for, capture, and move

California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders in the action area.

3. Effects to the California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander must be minimized in the project area.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS To be exempt from the prohibitions of section 9 of the Act, the FAA and Watsonville Municipal Airport must comply with the following terms and conditions, which implement the reasonable and prudent measures described above and outline reporting and monitoring requirements.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 24 These terms and conditions are non-discretionary.

1. The following term and condition implements reasonable and prudent measure 1:

If one California red-legged frog or one Santa Cruz long-toed salamander is found dead or injured during construction activities, the FAA must contact our office immediately so we can review the project activities to determine if additional protective measures are needed. In instances where the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded, the exemption issued pursuant to section 7(o)(2) will have lapsed and any further take would be a violation of section 4(d) or 9. Consequently, we recommend that any operations causing such take cease pending reinitiation.

2. The following term and condition implements reasonable and prudent measure 2:

The FAA and Watsonville Municipal Airport must request our approval of any biologists, or construction monitor, that they employ to conduct project activities associated with the California red-legged frog and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, pursuant to this biological opinion. Such requests must be in writing, and be received by the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office at least 30 days prior to any such activities being conducted. Please be advised that possession of a 10(a)(1)(A) permit for the covered species does not substitute for the implementation of this measure. A section 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permit is limited to any act otherwise prohibited by section 9 of the Act for scientific purposes or to enhance the propagation or survival of the affected species. Capture and relocation of listed species can only be authorized through the incidental take anticipated by this biological opinion or through the section 10(a)(1)(B) incidental take permitting process. Authorization of Service-approved biologists is valid for this project only.

3. The following terms and conditions implement reasonable and prudent measure 3:

a. To avoid or minimize the possibility of California red-legged frogs and Santa

Cruz long-toed salamanders being present in the work area and not detected before construction commences, a Service-approved biologist must conduct a daily preconstruction survey in the work area and surrounding habitat, including under vehicles and equipment before work can begin. In addition, if an unseasonable rain event occurs, work activities must cease until the Service-approved biologist has surveyed the area and determined that California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders are not moving through the area. The Service-approved biologist must have the authority to cease work activities if either of these species may be adversely affected by project activities.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 25

b. If construction activities within suitable habitat extend into the wet season, the perimeter of the wetland area must be fenced with amphibian exclusion fencing by October 15 to avoid impacts to California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders that may be migrating through the project site. Installation of exclusion fencing will occur under the supervision of a qualified biologist. Orange construction fencing must not be used for the purpose of exclusion fencing for California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders; instead, a contractor-grade silt fence must be used. The fencing must be installed securely, without gaps, and in such a way that small animals could not pass beneath it. This fence must be maintained throughout the duration of the project to ensure that it is in good condition and functioning properly. The fence line must be inspected daily by the Service-approved biologist or a person trained and designated by the Service-approved biologist, prior to the start of work, and after any rain event, to ensure that any animals attempting to disperse are not restricted by the fencing. If animals are found along the fence line, the Service-approved biologist will be notified immediately to determine whether relocation is necessary. Only the Service-approved biologist is authorized to relocate these animals. Cover boards should be provided along the inside of the fence line for frogs or salamanders to take shelter from desiccation or predation if necessary. These cover boards should be low to the ground and secured in such a way that any amphibians potentially using them are not accessible to predatory species such as raccoons and coyotes.

c. In addition to providing an informational guide to the contractor and personnel

explaining how to identify the California red-legged frog and the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, an informational training session conducted by a Service-approved biologist must be held for all construction and on site personnel prior to the beginning of construction activities and for any new personnel before they begin work. Training must include, at minimum: (1) an overview and identification of federally listed species in the vicinity, (2) an overview of avoidance and minimization measures being implemented to protect biological resources, (3) the terms and conditions of all permits, and (4) information on the Federal and State Endangered Species Acts and the consequences of noncompliance with these acts.

d. To prevent attraction of predators to work sites, which could, in turn, prey on

California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders, all food scraps, wrappers, food containers, cans, bottles, and other trash from the project action area must be disposed of in closed trash containers. Trash containers must be removed from the project action area at the end of each working day.

e. In addition to ensuring that construction equipment and vehicles operated in the

action area are checked and maintained daily to prevent leaks of fuel, lubricants, or other fluids and the development of an approved Hazardous Materials Spill

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 26

Prevention Plan before construction activities begin, all refueling and maintenance of vehicles and other construction equipment must be restricted to designated staging areas located at least 100 feet from any down gradient aquatic habitat unless otherwise isolated from habitat. Proper spill prevention and cleanup equipment must be maintained in all refueling areas.

f. During erosion control activities, application of certain netting materials, such as

plastic monofilament netting, could potentially harm, injure, or kill California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders if they become entrapped in the material. Only tightly woven netting or similar material (that will not trap small animals) for all geo-synthetic erosion control materials, such as coir rolls and geo-textiles, must be used. The use of plastic monofilament netting must be prohibited.

g. Prior to the onset of any project related activities, the Service-approved biologist

must identify appropriate locations to receive California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders from the project area in the event that they need to be relocated. These locations must be in proximity to the capture site, contain suitable habitat, must not be affected by project activities, and be free of exotic predatory species (i.e., bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus), crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)) to the best of the approved biologist’s knowledge. Captured California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders must be released as near as possible to the point of capture, in a manner that maximizes their survival. California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders should be released into the mouth of a small mammal burrow or other suitable refugia that reduces the likelihood of desiccation and predation. Handling must be done in an expedient manner with minimal harm to the individuals being handled. The hands and arms of all workers handling California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders must be free of lotions, creams, sunscreen, oils, ointment, insect repellent, or any other material that may harm these animals.

h. When relocating California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed

salamanders, the possible spread of chytrid fungus or other amphibian pathogens and parasites must be minimized by following the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force’s Fieldwork Code of Practice (DAPTF 1998) (Appendix D). When implementing the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force Code of Practice, the Service-approved biologist may substitute a bleach solution (0.5 to 1.0 cup of bleach to 1.0 gallon of water) for the ethanol solution. Care must be taken so that all traces of the disinfectant are removed before entering the next aquatic habitat.

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 27 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS Pursuant to 50 CFR 402.14(i)(3), the FAA must report the progress of the action and its impact on the species to the Service as specified in this incidental take statement. The report must be made to the Service’s Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office (2493 Portola Road, Suite B, Ventura, California 93003) within 60 days following completion of the proposed project. The report must describe all activities that were conducted under this biological opinion, including activities that were described in the proposed action and required under the terms and conditions. The FAA must provide reports of the number of California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders relocated from the project area; killed or injured during project related activities; the dates and times of capture, mortality, or injury; specific locations of capture, mortality, or injury; approximate size and age of individuals; and a description of relocation sites. DISPOSITION OF DEAD OR INJURED SPECIMENS As part of this incidental take statement and pursuant to 50 CFR 402.14(i)(1)(v), upon locating a dead or injured California red-legged frog or Santa Cruz long-toed salamander, immediate notification must be made by telephone and in writing to the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office (805-644-1766). The report must include the date, time, location of the carcass, a photograph, cause of death or injury, if known, and any other pertinent information. Care must be taken in handling injured animals to ensure effective treatment and care, and in handling dead specimens to preserve biological material in the best possible state. Injured animals must be transported to a qualified veterinarian. Should any treated California red-legged frogs or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders survive, the Service should be contacted regarding the final disposition of the animals. We recommend that dead California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders identified in the action area be tested for amphibian disease due to the increased occurrence of amphibian chytridiomycosis in California; however, this recommendation is discretionary and to be determined by the FAA upon contacting the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office at the discovery of a dead California red-legged frog or Santa Cruz long-toed salamander. If the FAA chooses to submit specimens for testing they can be sent to Southern Illinois University Carbondale for low-cost testing. The FAA may contact Gretchen Padgett-Flohr through contact information provided below to determine if dead specimens are candidates for testing. If the FAA chooses not to submit dead specimens for testing, they must be placed with the California Academy of Sciences (Contact: Jens Vindum, Collections Manager, California Academy of Sciences Herpetology Department, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, 94118, (415) 750-7037).

CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS Section 7(a)(1) of the Act directs Federal agencies to use their authorities to further the purposes of the Act by carrying out conservation programs for the benefit of endangered and threatened species. Conservation recommendations are discretionary agency activities to minimize or avoid

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 28 adverse effects of a proposed action on listed species or critical habitat, to help implement recovery plans, or to develop information.

1. We recommend that the Service-approved biologist(s) relocate any other native reptiles or amphibians found within work areas to suitable habitat outside of project areas if such actions are in compliance with State laws.

2. We recommend that the FAA submit dead California red-legged frogs and Santa Cruz

long-toed salamanders for disease testing. Care should be taken in handling dead specimens to preserve biological material in the best possible state for later analysis. Specimens collected will be tested for amphibian disease, particularly amphibian chytridiomycosis, by sending them to Gretchen Padgett-Flohr, Department of Zoology, Life Sciences II, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois 62901. The same methodology is used for all life stages of all caudates and anurans. If the specimen is sloughing skin, care must be taken to include the slough with the animal. Specimens must be placed in a cooler with ice to slow decomposition until proper preservation is possible, but specimens should not be allowed to freeze. Specimens must be preserved in 70 percent ethanol in a leak-proof container (cryogenic vials are not leak-proof). When depositing adult or large post-metamorphic specimens in the ethanol, ensure that the abdominal cavity is punctured with a small incision to allow the preservative to flow into the body of the animal. The sample must be accompanied by a disease notification form that can be downloaded at http://www.ccadc.us/contact.htm, along with $5.00 per sample, which is required for sample analysis and incorporating the data into the California amphibian disease database. The locations of specimens identified as a disease carrier will be georeferenced online at http://www.ccadc.us. Additional information concerning sampling protocols, decontamination procedures, and the mapping project can be found at http://www.ccadc.us (contact: Gretchen Padgett-Flohr, (618-201-5533); gpadgettflohr@aol.com). Arrangements regarding proper disposition of potential specimens should be made with the Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Department of Zoology by the Refuge prior to implementation of any actions. If it is determined by Gretchen Padgett-Flohr that the specimen should not be sent to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, the remains of California red-legged frogs or Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders must be placed with the institution identified in the Disposition of Dead or Injured Specimens section of this biological opinion.

The Service requests notification of the implementation of any conservation recommendations so we may be kept informed of actions minimizing or avoiding adverse effects or benefitting listed species or their habitats.

REINITIATION NOTICE This concludes formal consultation on the Watsonville Municipal Airport Taxiway Reconstruction Project. As provided in 50 CFR 402.16, reinitiation of formal consultation is required where discretionary Federal agency involvement or control over the action has been

Robin K. Hunt (8-8-12-F-6) 29

retained (or is authorized by law) and if: (1) the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded; (2) new information reveals effects of the agency action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner or to an extent not considered in this opinion; (3) the agency action is subsequently modified in a manner that causes an effect to the listed species or critical habitat not considered in this opinion; or (4) a new species is listed or critical habitat designated that may be affected by the action. In instances where the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded, the exemption issued pursuant to section 7(0)(2) will have lapsed and any further take would be a violation of section 4(d) or 9. Consequently, we recommend that any operations causing such take cease pending reinitiation. If you have any questions, please call Lena Chang of my staff at (805) 644-1766, extension 302.

Sincerely,

Diane K. N oda Field Supervisor

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[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and

Plants; Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the California Red-Legged Frog; final rule. Federal Register 75:12816-12959.

U. S. Geological Service. 2000. Chytrid fungus associated with boreal toad deaths in Rocky

Mountain National Park, Colorado. U.S.G.S. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey News Release, March 29, 1999.

Voyles, J., S. Young, L. Berger, C. Campbell, W.F. Voyles, A. Dinudom, D. Cook, R. Webb,

R.A. Alford, L.F. Skerratt, and R. Speare. 2009. Pathogenesis of chytridiomycosis, a cause of catastrophic amphibian declines. Science 326:582-585.

In litteris Baldwin, B. 2001. Jepson Herbarium. Letter addressed to Jim Bartel, U.S. Fish and Wildlife

Service, Carlsbad, California, regarding reproductive systems in Otay tarplant (Deinandra conjugens). Dated March 6, 2001.

[FAA] Federal Aviation Administration. 2011a. Letter requesting initiation of informal section

7 consultation for the proposed reconstruction of Taxiway C and portion of the general aviation apron at the Watsonville Municipal Airport, Santa Cruz, California, to Ms. Diane Noda, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura, California. Dated January 21, 2011.

[FAA] Federal Aviation Administration. 2011b. Letter to continue informal section 7

consultation for the proposed reconstruction of Taxiway C and portion of the general aviation apron at the Watsonville Municipal Airport, Santa Cruz, California, including the amended biological supplement, to Ms. Diane Noda, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura, California. Dated May 9, 2011.

[FAA] Federal Aviation Administration. 2011c. Letter acknowledging request for initiation of

formal section 7 consultation for the proposed reconstruction of Taxiway C and portion of the general aviation apron at the Watsonville Municipal Airport, Santa Cruz, California, to Ms. Diane Noda, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura, California. Dated January 18, 2012.

Personal Communications Franklin, B. 2012. Environmental Protection Specialist, Federal Aviation Administration.

Phone conversation regarding the potential of work activities to occur in the wet season with Lena Chang, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura, California. March 26, 2012.

Olson, J. 2010. Botanist, California Army National Guard, Camp Roberts, California. Phone

conversation regarding the status of the Holocarpha macradenia population at the Santa Cruz Armory with Lena Chang, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura, California. February 23, 2010.

APPENDICES APPENDIX A. Proposed project area (Helix and Wallace 2011)

APPENDIX B Distance and slope between the taxiway and riparian habitat (Helix and Wallace 2011)

APPENDIX C. Critical habitat map a the Watsonville Municipal Airport (Helix and Wallace 2011)

APPENDIX D. The Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force Fieldwork Code of Practice A code of practice, prepared by the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force (DAPTF), provides guidelines for use by anyone conducting field work at amphibian breeding sites or in other aquatic habitats. Observations of diseased and parasite-infected amphibians are now being frequently reported from sites all over the world. This has given rise to concerns that releasing amphibians following a period of captivity, during which time they can pick up unapparent infections of novel disease agents, may cause an increased risk of mortality in wild populations. Amphibian pathogens and parasites can also be carried in a variety of ways between habitats on the hands, footwear, or equipment of fieldworkers, which can spread them to novel localities containing species which have had little or no prior contact with such pathogens or parasites. Such occurrences may be implicated in some instances where amphibian populations have declined. Therefore, it is vitally important for those involved in amphibian research (and other wetland/pond studies including those on fish, invertebrates and plants) to take steps to minimize the spread of disease and parasites between study sites.

1. Remove mud, snails, algae, and other debris from nets, traps, boots, vehicle tires and all other surfaces. Rinse cleaned items with sterilized (e.g., boiled or treated) water before leaving each study site.

2. Boots, nets, traps, etc., should then be scrubbed with 70 percent ethanol solution (or

sodium hypochlorite 3 to 6 percent) and rinsed clean with sterilized water between study sites. Avoid cleaning equipment in the immediate vicinity of a pond or wetland.

3. In remote locations, clean all equipment as described above upon return to the lab or

"base camp". Elsewhere, when washing machine facilities are available, remove nets from poles and wash with bleach on a "delicates" cycle, contained in a protective mesh laundry bag.

4. When working at sites with known or suspected disease problems, or when sampling

populations of rare or isolates species, wear disposable gloves and change them between handling each animal. Dedicate sets of nets, boots, traps, and other equipment to each site being visited. Clean and store them separately and the end of each field day.

5. When amphibians are collected, ensure the separation of animals from different sites and

take great care to avoid indirect contact between them (e.g., via handling, reuse of containers) or with other captive animals. Isolation from un-sterilized plants or soils which have been taken from other sites is also essential. Always use disinfected/disposable husbandry equipment.

6. Examine collected amphibians for the presence of diseases and parasites soon after

capture. Prior to their release or the release of any progeny, amphibians should be quarantined for a period and thoroughly screened for the presence of any potential disease agents.

7. Used cleaning materials (liquids, etc.) should be disposed of safely and if necessary taken

back to the lab for proper disposal. Used disposable gloves should be retained for safe disposal in sealed bags (DAPTF 1998).

*When implementing the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force Code of Practice, the Service-approved biologist may substitute a bleach solution (0.5 to 1.0 cup of bleach to 1.0 gallon of water) for the ethanol solution. Care must be taken so that all traces of the disinfectant are removed before entering the next aquatic habitat.