Location: MSHCP > VOLUME 1 > SECTION 5.0

SECTION 5.0

MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING

5.1 MANAGEMENT/ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

This section summarizes the overall regulatory framework and overriding goal of the Adaptive Management Program for the MSHCP. Guidance regarding Adaptive Management Programs for Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) and Natural Communities Conservation Plans (NCCPs) is detailed in federal and state guidelines for such programs. Federal guidelines programs are described in Section 3.B.3.g of The USFWS/NMFS Habitat Conservation Planning Handbook (November 1996) and in the handbook's five-point Addendum dated June 1, 2000. The Federal Register notice contains the following guidance regarding Adaptive Management Programs:

The following definition of Adaptive Management, from the California NCCP Act of 2002, will be used in this document:

"To use the results of new information gathered through the monitoring program of the plan and from other sources to adjust management strategies and practices to assist in providing for the conservation of covered species."

Western Riverside County is already a highly fragmented landscape that may not function in the future without human intervention through land-based management and Adaptive Management. The County's population is expected to double by 2020, from 1.4 million to 2.8 million people; to respond to the increased demands that will be placed on the region's ecosystems as a result of this growth, there must be effective land management.

5.2 MSHCP MANAGEMENT AND ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS

Management Goal

The overriding management goal of the MSHCP is to establish and maintain a self-sustaining MSHCP Conservation Area, that focuses on conserving Habitats and species and is consistent with the conservation objectives for the Covered Species. Ecosystems are dynamic environments of interacting processes and biotic and abiotic components; they may exhibit multiple equilibria, and destabilizing forces. Furthermore, ecological processes are not linear; they may function at different spatial and temporal scales simultaneously. Consequently, Adaptive Management of ecosystems, landscapes, and associated species and Habitats requires a flexible, inductive approach where ecological theory and field experimentation are combined to monitor the status of the system and respond to the unexpected. The Adaptive Management Plan for the MSHCP encourages such an informed “learning by doing" approach.

Overview

The management and Adaptive Management Programs developed for the MSHCP are based on the framework presented in Section 5.1 of this document. They use a flexible approach to management to ensure that the Covered Species and Vegetation Communities within the MSHCP Conservation Area are maintained and/or enhanced during the term of the Permit. To achieve the overriding management goal of the MSHCP to establish and maintain a self-sustaining MSHCP Conservation Area, there will need to be an integrated multidisciplinary effort that incorporates the Adaptive Management principles presented in Section 5.1 and the monitoring efforts described in Section 5.3. Adaptive Management Programs rely on monitoring efforts to detect changes in species, Habitats, and/or threats. When change is detected, Reserve Managers evaluate the information and can respond by initiating, modifying, or even ending a particular management strategy if necessary. The MSHCP Biological Monitoring Program, described in Section 5.3, will focus on collecting baseline data during the first five years of the MSHCP. These initial data will include the status of resources (i.e., species, Vegetation Communities, and habitat conditions) and the status of threats to these resources (e.g., invasive non-native species, disturbed Habitat, and erosion and sedimentation).

Limitations

A limitation of the management plan is the current level of available baseline data on the species, Vegetation Communities, and threats. While sufficient for the landscape level planning undertaken for the MSHCP, additional data will be needed to implement the management plan. Currently, quantitative distributional studies have not been conducted to determine accurate population numbers and trends. Data must be collected over time to determine whether populations are fluctuating, increasing, or decreasing (either naturally or human induced). Therefore, the initial objective of this management plan is to develop and quantify baseline data for species, Vegetation Communities, and threats to the species and their Habitat. These data will be gathered in the first five years of the MSHCP Plan in order to develop a functional management plan as described in Section 5.3 of this document.

5.2.1 Proposed Management Activities

Management activities will be implemented by the Reserve Managers and Reserve Management Oversight Committee (RMOC) commensurate with priorities identified by those entities to carry out species objectives and provide for biological values identified in Section 3.2. Management activities will take place within the MSHCP Conservation Area, and emphasis will be given to maintaining and/or improving habitat conditions and ecosystem functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Management activities implemented by individual Reserve Managers will be documented and included in annual reports to the RMOC to ensure that data are shared and informed decisions can be made regarding management priorities.

General management activities will occur at two levels: habitat- or landscape-based management activities and species-specific management activities. The habitat- or landscape-based management activities will ensure that the management plan is working for each species and that trends are not misinterpreted on the species-specific level. The species-specific management activities will ensure that the management needs of individual species are met, in consideration of known information for each species related to core locations, primary Habitats, and known threats.

General Management Measures

Implementation of General Management Measures will include periodically evaluating the management activities in the MSHCP Conservation Area to maintain consistency and to share information to determine whether local fluctuations of habitat quality or species populations are isolated events or part of a more widespread phenomenon. General Management Measures will address the processes, threats, and disturbances that affect the Habitat and the natural community and on sustaining sufficient species diversity to maintain the health of the particular ecosystem.

Disturbance regimes include illegal trespass (e.g., dumping, vandalism and off-road vehicle use); altering the natural fire regime (fires too frequent or too infrequent); habitat disturbance; invasion by exotic plant and animal species; and erosion and sedimentation. Typical responses to these disturbance regimes may include controlling public access through appropriate fencing, gates, and signage; trash removal; maintaining the natural fire regime by maintaining fuel breaks, rapid response to suppression, and controlled burns (Minnich, et al. 1995; Minnich and Chou 1997; Minnich 2001); control of exotic species; seeding or planting with native species; and soil amendment.

Published literature documents conversion of frequently burned chaparral and coastal sage scrub to grassland (Keely 1990, Zedler et al. 1983), and less frequently burned chaparral to woodland. Fire frequency may also play an important role in the maintenance of some types of forest. For example, Minnich et al. (1995) found a change in the Jeffrey pine forest physiognomy of the past 100 years as a result of fire suppression. In this study, fire suppression caused an ecosystem shift from Ponderosa pine and Jeffrey pine to incense cedar and white fir, which in turn may have consequences for migrant and resident bird species.

Implementation of General Management Measures includes evaluating data from monitoring activities (see Section 5.3) to determine whether trends in threats (whether isolated or widespread) are part of a natural cycle of fluctuation or are anthropogenic. These General Management Measures will be undertaken to benefit all Covered Species throughout the MSHCP Conservation Area.

The following General Management Measures will be undertaken:

1. Control of unauthorized public access to the MSHCP Conservation Area using appropriate fencing, gates and signage, trash removal, trespass control in response to illegal dumping, off-road vehicle use, and vandalism.

2. An initial baseline assessment of Additional Reserve Lands will be undertaken within the first four years of conveyance of such lands to the MSHCP Conservation Area. The baseline assessments will include a general characterization of existing habitat conditions, species presence and diversity, presence of threats, and general identification of management issues. The assessment will be documented and presented to the RMOC for inclusion in the MSHCP annual reports. Existing baseline data will be used for the existing reserves and will be augmented by new data collected during monitoring efforts. Baseline data are currently being gathered on existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands.

3. Upland Habitats within the MSHCP Conservation Area will be maintained and managed to the extent Feasible in a condition similar to or better than the habitat's conditions at the time lands are conveyed to the MSHCP Conservation Area. Baseline upland habitat conditions will be measured at the time of conveyance to the MSHCP Conservation Area according to the following parameters: general vegetation characteristics, proportion of native versus exotic species, recent evidence of fire or other apparent ecosystem processes that might change habitat quality. The condition of upland Habitat will be measured during regular monitoring intervals identified in the MSHCP Biological Monitoring Program (see Section 5.3 of this document). Remedial action will be recommended if there is a substantial decline in native species compared to the baseline (greater presence of exotics) or other apparent threats to habitat conditions are observed. A sample form is presented in this section to provide consistency in how and what data are collected. The form is not intended to be prescriptive; it may be used as is or modified at the discretion of the Reserve Manager.

4. Wetland Habitat within the MSHCP Conservation Area will be maintained and managed to the extent Feasible in a condition similar to or better than the habitat's condition at the time the lands are conveyed to the MSHCP Conservation Area. Baseline wetland habitat conditions will be measured at the time lands are conveyed to the MSHCP Conservation Area according to the following general parameters: general vegetation characteristics, proportion of native versus exotic species, general presence and extent of common wetland threats, including tamarisk, arundo, cowbirds, other exotic predators such as bullfrogs, erosion and sedimentation. Wetland habitat conditions will be measured during regular monitoring intervals identified in the MSHCP Monitoring Plan (see Section 5.3 of this document). Remedial actions will be recommended if a substantial decline is documented in habitat conditions or native species compared to the baseline (greater presence of exotics) or other apparent threats to habitat conditions. A sample form is presented on the following page to provide consistency in how and what data are collected. The form is not intended to be prescriptive; it may be used as is or modified at the discretion of the Reserve Manager.

5. Existing known or newly observed active raptor nests shall be conserved within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Implementation of this objective will benefit the following species:

6. Management activities will be directed toward both existing known Core Areas and species Localities as identified in the species conservation objectives as well as new Core Areas and localities that may be identified in the future.



FORM FOR ASSESSMENT OF UPLAND AND WETLAND HABITAT CONDITIONS

Date:

Location:

Township:_________. Range:__________. 1/4 section__________.

General Habitat Description:

1. Shrub species density estimate: high____, medium____, low____ (estimate percentage cover for each quarter- section). Dominant species:_______________________________.

2. Shrub species diversity: 1 to 3____, 4 to 6____, >6____.

3. Annual species density estimate: high____, medium____, low____ (estimate percentage cover for each quarter-section). Dominant species:_______________________________.

4. Perennial grasses density estimate: high____, medium____, low____ (estimate percentage cover for each quarter-section). Dominant species:_______________________________.

5. Soils description:_____________________________________________________.

6. Percentage cover rocks and boulders:________________________________________.

7. Presence of stream channels:_________________________________.

8. Evidence of periodic flooding present:____________________________________.

9. Slope/aspect:________________________________________________________.

10. Elevation:___________________________________________________________.

Existing Disturbance Regime:

Off-road vehicle use:_______________________________.

Horse or foot traffic:________________________________.

Dog/cat activity:___________________________________.

Garbage dumping:__________________________________.

Sedimentation or erosion:____________________________.

Fire:_____________________________________________.

Exotic plant or animal species:________________________.

Disturbed habitat:_________________________________.

Recommendations:

Preparer:

7. Unless otherwise specified in the species-specific conservation objectives, species presence and continued use shall be maintained at 75% of the locations identified for each species in the species accounts, as measured at a minimum once every eight years. Species declines below this threshold, or other thresholds as noted in the species-specific conservation objectives, shall trigger management actions. Specific management actions shall be based on site-specific information and recommendations. These specific management actions will be in addition to ongoing management activities.

The identified 75% threshold is the default lower limit (unless otherwise specified) and may be modified as new data are collected over time. Thresholds shall be determined by the RMOC which will meet five years after initial Permit issuance and every year thereafter to evaluate new data and review species-specific trigger points. It is anticipated that sufficient data will be available to determine species-specific trigger points for management activities by Year 15 after Permit issuance.

8. General management efforts will be directed to respond to natural and anthropogenic disturbance regimes, particularly those that may be causing ecosystem state transition (conversion of one habitat type to another). Table 5-1 is not intended to prescribe management activities that may need to be undertaken but is intended to identify a common list of considerations and potential actions for Reserve Managers to evaluate. Pre-existing and post-disturbance conditions (e.g., habitat type, slope aspect, anticipated seed bank, accessability, surrounding habitat types, etc.) and special considerations (e.g., soil type, acreage of disturbance, proximity to undisturbed Habitat, proximity to sensitive wildlife Habitat, etc.) will contribute to determining the appropriate management activities in response to the disturbance regimes.

9. In larger habitat blocks within the MSHCP Conservation Area, fire management activities such as prescribed burning may be determined to be desirable to achieve biological goals within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Such activities shall be considered in the detailed management plans for each management unit within the MSHCP Conservation Area, that will be prepared within five years after approval of the MSHCP. Such fire management activities, if undertaken, must consider both biological resources needs and public health and safety considerations. The risks of uncontrolled wildfire in proximity to developed areas must be a primary consideration when evaluating these types of fire management practices.



TABLE 5-1
FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN MANAGEMENT RESPONSES TO DISTURBANCE REGIMES
Disturbance Source Pre-existing/Post-Fire Conditions Special Considerations Management Action
FIRE Native vegetation type
Native vs. non-native cover
Anticipated seed bank: native vs. non-native, annual vs. perennial
Slope gradient
Slope aspect (solar orientation)
Topography/erosion potential
Soil type
Fire temperature
Accessability
Surrounding Habitat types
Nearby and adjacent exotic species populations
Presence of sensitive plant species - Bulbs, etc.
Presence of fire-following native species
Hydrophobic soil conditions
Availability of irrigation
Acreage of disturbance
Proximity to undisturbed Habitat
Proximity to sensitive wildlife Habitat
Potential for resprouting
Determine target vegetation to reestablish: pioneer, seral, climax community
Relationship to MSHCP Conservation Area biological resources : Linkage vs. Core
Establish erosion control where runoff is likely to concentrate
Exotic species control only
Establish weed control buffer area around burn site
Reseed with appropriate native species w/ exotic control
Install selected native species container plants that don't establish from seed w/ exotic species control
Disturbed Habitat Presence of erosion
Soil compaction
Soil structure damage
Access points
Slope gradient
Native vegetation type
Native vs. non-native cover
Anticipated seed bank: native vs. non-native, annual vs. perennial
Slope aspect (solar orientation)
Topography/erosion potential
Soil type
Equipment accessability
Surrounding Habitat types
Nearby and adjacent exotic species populations
Presence of sensitive plant species - Bulbs, etc.
Presence of fire following native species
Availability of irrigation
Acreage of disturbance
Proximity to undisturbed Habitat
Proximity to sensitive wildlife Habitat
Potential for resprouting
Determine target vegetation to reestablish: pioneer, seral, climax community
Relationship to MSHCP Conservation Area
biological resources : Linkage vs. Core
Biological value of appropriately-timed grazing for non-native dominated areas
Erect appropriate fence
Post signage (No trespassing, Preserve information)
Establish erosion control where runoff is likely to concentrate
Backfill eroded or soil-damaged areas with appropriate local native soil
Establish weed control buffer area around disturbance area
Install temporary irrigation system to establish container plants and/or seed
Reseed with appropriate native species w/ exotic control
Install selected native species container plants that don't establish from seed w/ exotic species control
Exotic Plant
Invasion
Exotic species present
Native vegetation type
Native vs. non-native cover
Anticipated seed bank (if any): native vs. non-native, annual vs. perennial
Presence of sensitive plant species - Bulbs, etc.
Species reproductive biology, i.e., sexual vs. vegetative
Dispersal method, i.e., wind, animal, birds, etc.
timing of flowering/seed set
Timing of control measures
Removal with hand equipment
Chemical treatment
Soil solarization
Direct removal/replace technique
Sedimentation Native vegetation type
Native vs. non-native cover
Anticipated seed bank (if any): native vs. non-native, annual vs. perennial
Type of Flow: Perennial, Ephemeral or Intermittent
Channel cross section: incisement, etc.
Underfit/overfit stream
cutbank vs. slip face
Streambed particle size: clay, silt, sand, gravel
Normal character of flow
Adjacent structures to be protected
Presence of sensitive plant species - Bulbs, etc.
Stable streambed gradient
Existing non-native wetland species propagules upstream
Existing native wetland species propagules upstream
Flooding likely to recur
Upstream flood control structures
Establish erosion control where erosion is likely
Exotic species control
Establish weed control buffer area around site
Install appropriate wattled native plant materials for stream bank stabilization
Install geotextile fabric where unstable soil will limit plant reestablishment
Install energy dissipating features where flow velocities are expected to be erosive.
Install grade stabilizing structures/ vegetation
Reseed with appropriate native understory species
Install selected native species container plants that don't establish from seed
Erosion Native vegetation type
Native vs. non-native cover
Anticipated seed bank: native vs. non-native, annual vs. perennial
Slope gradient
Slope aspect (solar orientation)
Topography
Soil type
Equipment accessability
Surrounding Habitat types
Nearby and adjacent exotic species populations
Presence of sensitive plant species - Bulbs, etc.
Water source
Single or recurring event
Extent of erosion feature: rivulets, gullies, etc.
Establish erosion control where erosion is likely
Install appropriate wattled native plant materials for stream bank stabilization
Install geotextile fabric where unstable soil will limit plant reestablishment
Install energy dissipating features where flow velocities are expected to be erosive.
Install grade stabilizing structures/ vegetation
Reseed with appropriate native understory species
Install selected native species container plants that don't establish from seed


As noted in Table 5-1 above, certain management actions undertaken in response to disturbance regimes may involve efforts to maintain and/or improve existing habitat conditions. Efforts to maintain and/or improve habitat conditions may include maintenance of existing conditions, natural generation or enhancement, or actual habitat creation, associated with a wide-range of effort and cost. Typical definitions for this range of potential actions are provided below. The definitions are presented in order of generally least intense to most intense activities.

Natural Regeneration: Natural regeneration means allowing a disturbed area to naturally revegetate without introduction of new plantings. Natural regeneration may require some level of maintenance and monitoring activities to ensure that opportunities are provided for passive revegetation to occur.

Maintenance: Maintenance refers to keeping an existing or “restored" Habitat in its existing dynamic condition. A primary maintenance activity is control or elimination of invasive species to allow continued presence or establishment of target native species. Maintenance requirements are often met by using Integrated Pest Management Practices to control or eliminate invasive species over a period of time. Such practices may include cultural mechanical, biological or chemical controls. Other maintenance actions of importance include providing temporary irrigation during the establishment period for “restored" Habitat; removal of anthropogenic trash, litter and debris; and replacing dead plants or overseeding barren areas.

Enhancement: Enhancement refers to increasing or improving and maintaining functions and values in the Habitat through intentional actions. This usually involves removing invasive weed species and replacing them with the appropriate native species.

Revegetation: Revegetation refers to introducing plant materials or seed, generally understood to be non-ornamental but not necessarily native, to a disturbed area. Revegetation means simply to establish plants on a particular site and does not necessarily mean establishment of a particular Vegetation Community or habitat type. For example, one could revegetate a site with a mixture of non-native, chaparral and coastal sage scrub species- the site would be revegetated but a particular Habitat would not necessarily be created.

Restoration: Restoration means returning a site to a pre-existing condition. This generally also involves re-establishment of habitat functions and values that previously existed on a now degraded site.

Creation: Creation means converting an existing land cover to a new Vegetation Community that did not previously exist on the site. Creation generally refers to conversion of persistent non-wetland Habitat into wetland Habitat. Creation generally requires creation of hydrology by grading to achieve the appropriate ground elevation in relationship to the water table and/or creation of stream flow through the site.

Species-Specific Management Activities

In order to summarize important species-specific issues and relationships, a species matrix was created. Core locations, primary habitat type, and known threats for each species were identified. Core locations for a species include areas that serve as large habitat blocks, areas with core locations, or areas serving as Linkages. Primary habitat type refers to the type of Habitat in which a species is most commonly found and which is essential to the species' life history, although that species may occur in other habitat types. Known threats include only those threats that have been demonstrated to negatively affect a species. This information was used to identify species- specific management activities for each species.

Table 5-2, the MSHCP Covered Species Management Matrix, identifies the General Management Measures and species-specific management activities for each Covered Species. The matrix incorporates the core locations, primary Habitats and threats information assembled for each species as noted above. Management activities are intended to address identified threats to species. The matrix also notes the key Management Units within which the species are located.



TABLE 5-2
MSHCP COVERED SPECIES MANAGEMENT MATRIX
Common Name
Scientific Name
Group Desig-
nation
Key Management Units Core Locations Primary Habitat Types Known Threats Management Activities
AMPHIBIANS
arroyo toad
Bufo californicus
3 2, 3, 4, 5 San Jacinto River, Bautista Creek, Indian Creek, San Juan Creek, Arroyo Seco, Temecula Creek, Wilson Creek, Vail Lake, Tenaja Creek, Los Alamos. Riparian scrub, woodland & forest Flood control; altered hydrology; exotic, invasive and competing plant species; farming and discing; sand and gravel mining; sheep and cattle grazing; recreation; off-road vehicles; and predation by racoons and non-native fish and amphibians. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area, given existing constraints and activities covered under the MSHCP. At a minimum, these areas will include portions of San Juan Creek, San Jacinto River, Indian Creek, Bautista Creek, Wilson Creek, Temecula Creek, Arroyo Seco, Tenaja Creek, Los Alamos Creek and Vail Lake, which are important to the arroyo toad. The ecological processes and breeding populations will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, farming, mining, grazing, recreation, and predation.
California red-legged frog
Rana aurora draytonii
3 3, 4 Santa Rosa Plateau (Cole Creek) and the southern Santa Ana Mountains. Meadows and marshes, riparian scrub, woodland & forest, ponds. Flood control; altered hydrology; exotic, invasive and competing plant species; aggregate mining; human collection; pesticides and herbicides; predation by introduced fishes, bullfrogs, and crayfish; predation by raccoons and opossums; disease; and parasites. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. Reserve Managers will determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, mining, human collection, and predation.
coast range newt
Taricha tarosa tarosa
3 3, 4 Santa Ana Mountains Grassland, Meadows and Marshes, Riparian Scrub, Woodland & Forest, Water, Woodlands & Forest Altered hydrology; exotic, invasive and competing plant species; human collection; predation by introduced fish and crayfish. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include the Santa Rosa Plateau, San Mateo Wilderness area of the Cleveland National Forest, Squaw Mountain, Avenacola Mesa Redondo Mesa, Alamos Canyon, and surrounding areas. Reserve Managers will determine if successful reproduction is occurring within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology and flood control, non-native plant species, mining, human collection, and predation.
mountain yellow-legged frog
Rana mucosa
3 2, 3 San Jacinto Mountains and foothills Montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub, water Water quality, recreational activities and predation by non-native fish and bullfrogs. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes (with particularly emphasis on removing non-native predatory fish and bullfrogs) within occupied Habitat and suitable new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. At a minimum, these areas will include areas above 370 meters at the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (including Dark Canyon), Fuller Mill Creek, and Hall Canyon above Lake Fulmor. Reserve Managers will maintain successful reproduction within the MSHCP Conservation Area as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile frogs once a year for the first 5 years after Permit issuance and then as determined by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee (but not less frequently than every 8 years). The ecological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of water quality and predation.
western spadefoot
Scaphiopus hammondii
2 2, 3, 4, 5 Riverside lowlands and San Jacinto foothills bioregions, Santa Rosa Plateau Playas and Vernal Pools Altered hydrology; exotic, invasive and competing plant species; farming and discing; mining; sheep and cattle grazing; off-road vehicles; and predation by mosquitofish and bullfrogs. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve Habitat quality at all locales within the MSHCP Conservation Area by preserving the watersheds and hydrological processes within the vernal pools, temporary ponds, and drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the sites and vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create primary Habitats within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will maintain successful reproduction at a minimum of 75% of the conserved breeding locations as measured by the presence/absence of tadpoles, egg masses, or juvenile toads once every 8 years. The hydrological processes and breeding population(s) will be maintained as a result of management measures with regard to alteration of hydrology, non-native plant species, farming, mining, grazing, off-road vehicle use and predation.
BIRDS
American bittern
Botaurus lentiginosus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh freshwater marsh Draining of marshes, human disturbance, overgrazing, pesticides. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional Habitat and/or nesting areas in the Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake, Collier Marsh, Temescal Wash, Temecula Creek, Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, Lake Perris and Lake Skinner areas. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. In order to assure the continued presence of American Bittern at a minimum of 50% of the locations in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur, Reserve Managers will demonstrate presence/absence at least once every 8 years. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological processes on the Santa Ana River and any other river systems important to maintain the integrity of nesting sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to grazing, recreation and hunting activities, as well as pesticide use.
bald eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
1 1, 2, 4, 5 Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Mystic Lake, Lake Perris, Lake Elsinore, Lake Mathews, Lake Skinner, Vail Lake, Diamond Valley Lake open water, riparian Habitat within Prado Basin/Santa Ana River Habitat loss, pesticides, persecution, human disturbance resulting from recreational activities. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of bald eagle for hunting and recreational activities, as well as pesticide use. Reserve Managers (including at Lake Perris) will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer (buffering consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris), and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area.
Bell's sage sparrow
Amphispiza bellii bellii
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Jurupa Mountains, Lakeview Mountains, Lake Perris, Badlands, Box Springs Mountains, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Wasson Canyon, Sedco Hills, Hogbacks, Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/Aguanga,Tule Valley Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub Alteration of natural fire regime, loss of Habitat due to agricultural conversion and development. Reserve Managers responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the sage sparrow Habitat within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create suitable Habitat within the Core Area to keep the coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the baseline value within the areas defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will conserve Habitat linkages between Core Areas and other areas important for dispersal at the Jurupa Mountains, Reche Canyon, and San Timoteo Creek. Particular management emphasis will be given to alteration of the natural fire regime and predationby domestic animals within the MSHCP Conservation Area.
black-crowned night heron
Nycticorax nycticorax
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, San Jacinto Wildlife Area/ Mystic Lake, Collier Marsh Primary: freshwater marsh, riparian scrub, woodland & forest; secondary: playas and vernal pools, cismontane alkali marsh Flood control, Habitat destruction, human disturbance, and environmental contaminants. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional nesting areas in the Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake, Collier Marsh, Lake Mathews, Vail Lake, and Lake Skinner areas. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time nest sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining hydrological process, specifically seasonal flows in the Santa Ana River.
black swift (breeding)
Cypseloides niger
1 3 Tahquitz Creek located within the San Jacinto Wilderness Area, potential nest site at north fork of San Jacinto River Montane coniferous forest, oak woodlands & forest Recreational activities within vicinity of nest sites such as rock climbing, hiking, bicycling, and loss of nest sites due to human activities such as water diversions, mining, and housing developments. General Management Measure 4. Reserve managers will manage the known and future nesting locations of this species where proximate to existing or proposed recreational activities, particularly trail systems.
burrowing owl
Athene cunicularia hypugaea
3 1, 2, 4, 5 Along Santa Ana River, playa west of Hemet, Lake Perris/Mystic Lake, Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews, Valle Vista Primary: grassland; secondary: Agriculture (field crops), playas and vernal pools Loss of Habitat, reduced burrow availability due to rodent control, and pesticide use. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to Habitat loss and use of rodenticides and pesticides. Reserve Managers will conduct presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl where potential Habitat occurs within the MSHCP Conservation Area prior to conducting activities that may negatively affect the burrowing owl. Surveys will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided as described in the BMPs included in Appendix C of this document. Passive relocation (use of one way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present outside the nesting season. Translocation sites for the burrowing owl will be created in the MSHCP Conservation Area for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be identified, taking into consideration unoccupied Habitat areas, presence of burrowing mammals, existing coloniesand effects to other Covered Species. The Wildlife Agencies will concur with the site selection prior to translocation site development.
cactus wren
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
3 2, 4, 5 Chino Hills, the Badlands, Box Springs Mountains, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain Reserve, Alberhill, Motte-Rimrock Reserve, Lake Perris/Mystic Lake area including Bernasconi Hills, Lake Skinner, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley, Aguanga, Temecula area Coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat loss and fragmentation from urbanization and agricultural development, fire and fire suppression, predation pressure. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of cactus patches within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create cactus patches, the preferred microhabitat, within the Core Area to keep the areal extent of cactus patches within 10% of that present at the base line surveys. Within each Core Area, Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the cactus wren Habitat determined to be occupied using existing information and baseline surveys. Baseline surveys of the Core Areas will be conducted as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by cactus wren within each Core Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to fire and fire suppressionactivities, grazing, farming, competition from non-native species, and Habitat fragmentation and transition.
California horned lark
Eremophila alpestris actia
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wasson Canyon, Moreno Valley/March ARB, Murrieta/Murrieta HotSprings area Agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playas and vernal pools, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub Habitat fragmentation and destruction, pesticides. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for pesticide use and Habitat fragmentation and destruction.
California spotted owl
Strix occidentalis occidentalis
2 3   Montane coniferous forest, oak woodlands & forest Loss of Habitat due to clear-cutting and degradation of Habitat due to even-aged tree management, urban and suburban expansion, water development, agricultural development, fuel wood harvest, reservoir development, mining Reserve Managers will mange micro habitat (i.e., old-growth forest) and integrate monitoring and management programs for the California spotted owl and the San Bernardino Flying squirrel. Reserve Managers will manage the known nesting locations and potential nesting Habitat (e.g., Habitat that consists of large blocks of mature forest with large trees and snags for nesting, dense, multi-layered canopy cover for roost seclusion, and a permanent water source, consistent with the species' needs) within the San Jacinto, San Bernardino, and Santa Ana mountains. Particular management emphasis will be given to fire and fire suppression activities, alteration of hydrology, farming, mining, logging and firewoodharvesting.
coastal California gnatcatcher
Polioptila californica californica
2 1, 4, 5 Norco Hills, Alberhill, El Cerrito, Lake Mathews- Estelle Mountain, Alberhill, North Peak Conservation Bank/Meadowbrook, Wasson Canyon, Railroad Canyon, portions of the Quail Valley area, Sedco Hills, Hogbacks, Lake Skinner, Buck Road to Pourroy Road east of Murrieta Hot Springs, Murrieta Hot Springs, Rancho California to De Portola Road, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley includingthe eastern Temecula Creek area Coastal sage scrub, riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, desert scrub Habitat destruction, fragmentation and adverse modification, agricultural use, such as grazing and field crops, air pollution, increases in fire frequency and the introduction of exotics. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area as identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the sage scrub vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create sage scrub within the Core Area to keep the percent cover of coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the baseline value within the areas defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the occupied gnatcatcher Habitat, as determined using existing information and baseline surveys, within each Core Area. Reserve Managers will maintain (once every three years) continued use of and successful reproduction at 75% of the Core Areas. Successful reproduction is defined as a nest which fledged at least one known young. Conduct baseline surveys as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by gnatcatchers within each Core Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to fireand fire suppression activities, farming, grazing, domestic animals, Habitat fragmentation and transition, and competition with non-native species.
Cooper's hawk
Accipiter cooperii
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Canyon, Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Slater Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau West, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, Tucalota Creek,San Bernardino National Forest, Cleveland National Forest, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley Riparian scrub, woodland & forest, oak woodlands & forest, montane coniferous forest Habitat destruction and degradation due to urbanization and development, human disturbance at nest sites, timber harvests, and pesticides. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will maintain the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat for this species and will selectively rehabilitate or revegetate all such potential Habitat areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will manage any nesting locations found in the future within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Particular management emphasis will be given to Habitat destruction anddegradation, timber harvesting, pesticide use and human disturbance at nest sites.
double-crested cormorant
Phalacrocorax auritus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Rookery in Prado Basin/Santa Ana River Water, wetland vegetation communties within Prado Basin/Santa Ana River Flood control measures, Habitat destruction, human persecution, pesticides and disease. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological processes within the following: Lake Mathews, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Elsinore, Vail Lake, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake and Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Reserve Managers will manage the known double-crested cormorant rookery in the Santa Ana River drainage/Prado Basin, as well as future rookeries. Particular management emphasis will be given to pesticide use, flood control measures andHabitat destruction, and human persecution.
downy woodpecker
Picoides pubescens
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Temescal Canyon, Alberhill Creek, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake Riparian scrub, woodland & forest, Oak woodland and forest Habitat destruction and fragmentation, loss of snags. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions by maintaining, preserving, and/or enhancing hydrological process of Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Reserve Managers will manage known and future identified nesting localities and protect micro-Habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat. Particular management emphasis will be directed toward preventing Habitat destruction e.g., cattle grazing) and fragmentation.
ferruginous hawk
Buteo regalis
1 1, 2, 4, 5   Agriculture (field crops), grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playa and vernal pool, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, and riparian scrub, woodland, and forest Habitat destruction and fragmentation, agriculture. General Management Measure 1.
golden eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Nest sites at Double Butte, Elsinore Peak, Temecula Gorge, hills east of Sun City, Rawson Canyon, in hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371 Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland, playa and vernal pools, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, oak woodlands & forest Human disturbance of nest areas, urbanization, poaching, transmission lines, Habitat loss and fragmentation. Reserve Managers will buffer from disturbance, and monitor and manage through time known nesting locations at Temecula Gorge, in the hills north of Aguanga west of State Route 371, at Elsinore peak, Rawson Canyon. Buffering of the nest sites will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat in the Criteria Area and MSHCP Conservation Area within a one mile radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. Monitoring and management will be used to demonstrate continued (once every eight years) use and successful reproduction at 75% of the known nesting localities(including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future).
grasshopper sparrow
Ammodramus savannarum
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Lake Perris/ Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Santa Rosa Plateau, Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Hot Springs Grassland Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation; extensive and intensive grazing; and predation. Reserve Managers will conduct surveys for grasshopper sparrow on all conserved lands with suitable Habitat within 3 years after they are added to the MSHCP Conservation Area. Results will be used to update the baseline distribution and determine the number of occupied Core Areas as defined under Objective 1 of the Species Account, and direct management activities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy within 3 large Core Areas (100%) and at least 3 of the 4 smaller Core Areas (75%) in at least 1 year out of any 5 consecutive year period. Five of the 7 Core Areas will be demonstrated to support at least 20 grasshopper sparrow pairs with evidence of successful reproduction within the first 5 years after permit issuance. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the grassland vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance, restore, and/or create grassland, with an emphasis on native grasslands, within the Core Area to keep the percent cover of grassland within 10% of the baseline value in the areas defined in Objective1 of the Species Account.
great blue heron
Ardea herodias
2   Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Lake Skinner, Collier Marsh Freshwater marsh, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub, woodland, and forest, and cismontane alkali marsh Habitat destruction and conversion, pesticide use, disturbance of nest sites during breeding. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the 3 known and historic breeding locations (Santa Ana River/Prado Basin, Lake Skinner, and Collier Marsh) for Habitat conversion and pesticide use. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time nest sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining hydrological process, specifically seasonal flows in the Santa Ana River.
least Bell's vireo
Vireo bellii pusillus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Canyon, Temescal Wash (including Alberhill Creek), Mockingbird Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner (including Rawson Canyon), Vail Lake, Wilson Creek Riparian scrub, woodlands and forest Loss and degradation of riparian Habitat, loss and modification of hydrological and fluvial processes, flood control, infestation of non-native species, ground water withdrawal, mosquito control, edge effects and loss of native buffer areas, mining, sheep and cattle grazing, Habitat fragmentation, and parasitism by brown-headed cowbird. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known vireo occupied Habitat (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to flood control measures, altered hydrology, competition with non-native species, parasitism by brown-headed cowbird, mining, grazing, and Habitat fragmentation. Reserve Managers will buffer known and future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer. Reserve Managers will manage future-identified nesting localities within the MSHCP Conservation Area.
Lincoln's sparrow (breeding)
Melospiza lincolnii
1 3   Primary: meadows & marshes, montane riparian; Secondary: chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, freshwater marsh, Peninsular juniper woodland, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, oak woodland and forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub. Sheep and cattle grazing, human disturbance of nest sites, logging, herbicides. General Management Measures 1 and 4.
loggerhead shrike
Lanius ludovicianus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, Lake Perris/Mystic Lake, the Badlands, Lake Mathews/ Estelle Mountain, Wasson Canyon, Wildomar, Temecula Creek, Quail Valley, Wilson Valley, San Jacinto, Moreno Valley,Homeland/Winchester/Menifee area. Agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playas and vernal pools, desert scrubs, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, Peninsular juniper woodland, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, oak woodland and forest. Habitat destruction and conversion, fertilizer and pesticide use, competition with human tolerant species. Reserve Managers will manage Habitat Linkages and movement corridors between Core population Areas in order to allow for dispersal and movement of loggerhead shrikes throughout the Plan Area and to areas outside of the Plan Area. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species for Habitat conversion and fertilizer and pesticide use. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 8 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas.
MacGillivray's warbler
Oporornis tolmiei
1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5   Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub woodland and forest, Riversidean alluvial fansage scrub, Oak woodland and forest. Clear-cut timber harvesting, ranching activities, and pesticide use. General Management Measures 1 and 4.
merlin
Falco columbarius
1 1, 2, 4, 5   Agriculture, grassland, meadows and marshes, cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh,playas and vernal pool, desert scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, Peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian scrub,woodland & forest, oak woodlands & forest Habitat loss and conversion. General Management Measure 1.
mountain plover
Charadrius montanus
3 2 San Jacinto River floodplain, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area Playas and vernal pools Farming and discing, sheep and cattle grazing conversion of grassland Habitat, and decline ofnative herbivores. Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to farming, grazing, conversion of grassland Habitat and decline of native herbivores.
mountain quail
Oreortyx pictus
1 2, 3, 4, 5   Chaparral, woodlands and forest, montane coniferous forest. Loss of Habitat due to human development, livestock grazing, fire exclusion, water developments. General Management Measure 1.
Nashville warbler
Vermivora ruficapilla
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Pine Cove, Lake Fulmor within San Bernardino National Forest Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub,woodland, and forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, oak woodland and forest. Loss of Habitat due to modification by humans. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future nesting locations of this species for loss of Habitat due to modification by humans.
northern goshawk
Accipiter gentilis
2 3 Nest sites at Lake Fulmore and San Jacinto Wilderness area and Tahquita Valley. Oak woodlands and forests, montane coniferous forest Falconry and logging. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to demonstrate continued (once every three years) use and successful reproduction at a minimum of 75% of the known nesting localities (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will protect and buffer from disturbance the known nest sites and any additional nesting locations found in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Buffering of the nest sites will include limiting human activities within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations during the breeding season. Protection is the conservation at least 1.6 square kilometers of suitable nesting Habitat around each known nest. Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to falconry and logging.
northern harrier (breeding)
Circus cyaneus
3 1, 2, 4, 5 Chino Hills, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Lake Skinner, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Lake Elsinore grasslands/Collier Marsh, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/east Temecula Creek, Garner Valley Primary: cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh, playas and vernal pools, grassland; Secondary: agriculture, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub. Destruction of wetlands Habitat, native grassland, and moist meadows, and burning and plowing of nesting areas during early stages of the breeding cycle. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known nesting areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will conserve and buffer from disturbance the known nesting locations listed in Objective 2 of the Species Account. Buffering will include the conservation of Habitat within a 250 meter radius around each of the nest site locations and may include a variety of Habitats. Particular management emphasis will be given to Habitat loss andconversion, fire and fire abatement measures during the early stages of the breeding cycle.
osprey
Pandion haliaetus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Santa Ana River, Lake Perris, Mystic Lake, Lake Skinner, Lake Hemet, Lake Mathews, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Vail Lake Riparian Habitat within Prado Basin/Santa Ana River, water Timber extraction and shoreline development, pesticides. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage any nesting locations known or identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Reserve Managers (including at Lake Perris) will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer (buffering consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris), and monitor through time existing and future-identified nesting and foraging Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Management emphasis will be given to logging and firewood harvesting and pesticide use.
peregrine falcon
Falco peregrinus
1 1, 2, 4, 5   Water, riparian Habitat within Prado Basin/Santa Ana River. Pesticides. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the known and future occurrences of this species with regard to pesticide use. Reserve Managers will identify, protect, buffer from disturbance with a 100-meter buffer, and monitor through time the open water bodies identified in Objective 1 of the Species Account.
prairie falcon (breeding)
Falco mexicanus
1 2, 5   Playas and vernal pools, desert scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub,coastal sage scrub Habitat loss, pesticides. Reserve Managers will manage cliff faces capable of supporting nesting prairie falcons.
purple martin
Progne subis
3 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Nest sites at Dripping Springs, Thomas Mountain, and potentially in Cleveland National Forest Montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub, woodland & forest, oak woodlands & forest Loss of riparian Habitat, removal of snags, and competition for nest cavities by house sparrows and European starlings. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage the two known nest sites for house sparrows or European starlings competing for the nest cavities. If competition is occurring, removal of house sparrows or European starlings may be required. Reserve Managers will augment nesting areas with potential artificial nest sites using gourds, if possible. Management actions may include closing roads near a nest site, fencing hiking trails, or fencing potential access points during the breeding season of the purple martin. Reserve Managers will manage known and future identified nesting localities and protectmicro-Habitat (i.e., groups of large snags) in potential nesting Habitat.
sharp-shinned hawk
Accipiter striatus
1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5   Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub,woodland & forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, oak woodlands & forest Logging and firewood harvesting, pesticides. General Management Measure 1.
Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow
Aimophila ruficeps canescens
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Box Springs Mountains, Lake Perris, Badlands, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Gaviland Plateau, west of Lake Elsinore, Wasson Canyon, Santa Rosa Plateau, Lake Skinner, De Portola road east of Bachelor Mountain, Hogbacks, Wilson Valley Primary: coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub; Secondary: grassland, chaparral Loss of Habitat for agriculture and urban development, predation and harassment by domestic and native predators, fire suppression. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will conduct baseline surveys as necessary (i.e., where no existing information exists) to determine the number of acres occupied by rufous-crowned sparrows within the Core Area. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area will evaluate the condition of the sage scrub vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create sage scrub within the Core Area to keep the coastal sage scrub vegetation within 10% of the acreage defined in Objective 1 of the Species Account. Reserve Managers will maintain occupancy of at least 80 percent of the occupied rufous-crowned sparrow Habitat, as determined using existing information and baseline surveys, within each Core Area. Additional management measures will address predationand harassment by domestic cats and dogs and competition from non-native species.
southwestern willow flycatcher
Empidonax traillii extimus
3 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Temescal Wash, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, San Timoteo Creek, Vail Lake Riparian scrub, woodland & forest, excluding tamarisk scrub and mule fat scrub Habitat destruction and modification for grazing activities, urban and agriculture development, water diversion and impoundment, channelization, off-road vehicle and other recreational uses, and hydrological changes, invasion by non-native plants, nest parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known southwestern willow flycatcher occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will develop a species-specific management plan or general management plan element that clearly identifies conservation measures to ensure, to the extent possible, that the species has sufficient suitable Habitat and that the species is not impacted by such environmental perturbations as fire, environmental contaminants, fragmentation-induced phenomena such as mesopredator release, and the direct and indirect impacts associated with cattle grazing and the presence of non-native plants and animals. Reserve Managers will manage the riparian Habitats within the current documented locations of the southwestern willow flycatcher at the Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake, Box Springs Mountain, Alberhill Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Reserve, Lake Skinner, Bautista Creek, and Potrero Creek. Reserve Managers will maintain or improve the potential flycatcher Habitat (including potential Core and satellite Areas and Habitat Linkages) in and along Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Wilson Valley, Bautista Creek, Tucalota Creek, and San Timoteo Canyon. Management emphasis will be given to maintaining or improving hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively restoring, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance,infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will also manage this species for cowbird parasitism. Reserve Managers will buffer knownand future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer.
Swainson's hawk
Buteo swainsoni
1 1, 2, 4, 5   Agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playas and vernal pools, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, Peninsular juniper woodland and scrub, riparian woodlands& forest Possibly loss of nest sites on breeding grounds due to agricultural operations, pesticides. General Management Measure 1.
tree swallow
Tachycineta bicolor
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River (breeding populations), Wasson Canyon, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley Riparian scrub, woodland and forest, water, oak woodlands & forest Destruction of riparian vegetation, removal of snags, competition with European starlings for nest sites. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving hydrological process on the Santa Ana River and any other hydrologic system important to maintain the integrity of nesting sites in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create additional Habitat and/or nesting areas in the areas identified in Objective 3 and at Lake Elsinore, Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews, and Lake Perris. Reserve Managers will manage nesting Habitat on the Santa Ana River and in other Core breeding Areas by managing for snags and older tree stands of oak and cottonwood. Reserve Managers will assure the continued presence of nesting tree swallows at a minimum of 70% of the locations in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur. Presence/absence must bedemonstrated at least once every seven years.
tricolored blackbird (colony)
Agelaius tricolor
3 1, 2, 4, 5 San Jacinto Valley (considered the floodplain of the San Jacinto River), Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek Primary: cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh; Secondary: playas and vernal pools, agriculture, grassland, meadows and marshes, riparian woodlands and forest Habitat loss due to destruction of nesting Habitat, reclamation, and drainage, predation, poisoning. General Management Measures 4 and 6. Reserve Managers will manage this species in order to maintain (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction within at least one of the identified Core Areas. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and preserving hydrological processes and Habitat suitable for tricolored blackbird breeding within the San Jacinto River floodplain, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh, Alberhill, and Vail Lake/Wilson Valley/eastern Temecula Creek. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species. Reserve Managers will conserve, protect and buffer with a 100-meter distance around any known nesting locations. Particular management emphasis will be givento Habitat loss, predation, poisoning, human disturbance and pesticide use.
turkey vulture (breeding)
Cathartes aura
3 2, 4, 5 Nest sites at Rawson Canyon and south side of Lake Perris (Bernasconi Hills) Grassland, playas and vernal pools, desert scrubs, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, oak woodlands & forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Human disturbance (shooting, trapping and poisoning), canid predation, pesticides, collisions with stationary or moving structures or objects. Maintain (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, the two known nesting locations, and at any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Reserve Managers will ensure buffering of the nest sites, which will include restricting human activities within a 1/2-mile radius around each of the nesting locations during the breeding season (e.g., fencing hiking trails or fencing potential access points). For Lake Perris, buffering will be consistent with the recreational activities at Lake Perris. Reserve Managers will ensure the Conservation of cliff areas in the Criteria Area that are capable of supporting nesting turkey vultures. Particular management emphasis will be given topreventing human disturbance, canid predation, and pesticide use.
western yellow-billed cuckoo
Coccyzus americanus occidentalis
3 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin/Santa Ana River drainage Southern cottonwood, willow riparian, southern sycamore/alder riparian, riparian scrub, riparian forest, southern willow scrub. Riparian Habitat losses due to conversion to agriculture, dams and river flow management, stream channelization and stabilization, livestock grazing, groundwater pumping, invasive non-native plants, Habitat fragmentation. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will implement a species-specific management plan or general management plan element that clearly identifies conservation measures to ensure, to the extent possible, that the species has sufficient suitable Habitat and that the species is not impacted by such environmental perturbations as fire, environmental contaminants, fragmentation-induced phenomena such as mesopredator release, and the direct and indirect impacts associated with cattle grazing and the presence of non-native plants and animals. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area as identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Area. The maintenance or improvement of Habitat at all locales will be accomplished by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively enhancing, rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the known western yellow-billed cuckoo occupied Core Areas (including any nesting locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will buffer known and future nest sites from disturbance within a 100-meter buffer.
white-faced ibis
Plegadis chihi
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Mystic Lake/Sant Jacinto Wildlife Area, Collier Marsh Primary: freshwater marsh; Secondary: playas and vernal pools, Agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, riparian scrub,woodland, and forest. Destruction of appropriate Habitat, human disturbance and pesticide use. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to flood control, Habitat fragmentation, human disturbance and pesticide use.
white-tailed kite
Elanus leucurus
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, Lake Perris/Mystic Lake, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Temescal Wash, Wasson Canyon, Murrieta Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner, Vail Lake, Wilson Valley Foraging Habitat: Agriculture, grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, playas and vernal pools, freshwater marsh, riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, chaparral; Breeding Habitat: Peninsular juniper woodland, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, oak woodlands & forest Habitat loss and urbanization, Habitat degradation especially the loss of nest trees and foraging Habitat, clean farming techniques, competition for nest sites with other raptors and corvids. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will manage, protect, and buffer from disturbance, the known winter roost area along San Timoteo Creek and any winter roost locations identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future. Buffering of the winter roost area will include Conservation of undeveloped Habitat within a 250 meter radius within the MSHCP Conservation Area around the roost site and may include a variety of Habitats. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 3 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the core breeding areas (including any core breeding areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). Reserve Managers will manage this species with regard to Habitat loss and urbanization, Habitat degradation especially the loss of nest trees and foraging Habitat, clean farming techniques, competition for nest sites with other raptors and corvids.
Williamson's sapsucker
Sphyrapicus thyroideus
2 1, 3 San Bernardino National Forest (core wintering and breeding areas) Montane coniferous forest, oak woodlands & forest Habitat degradation and loss (i.e., loss of snags) and timber harvesting. Reserve Managers will manage known and future occurrences of this species with regard to prevent Habitat degradation and loss of snags, and timber harvesting.
Wilson's warbler
Wlisonia pusilla
1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5   Breeding Habitat: Montane meadow, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, oak woodlands and forest in mountain Bioregions; Transient movement Habitat: grassland, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, Peninsular juniper woodland, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, and oak woodland and forest in lowland and foothills Bioregions Habitat degradation, heavy cattle grazing, timber harvesting and nest parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird. General Management Measures 1 and 4.
yellow-breasted chat
Icteria virens
2 1, 2, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Creek, Temescal Wash including tributary Alberhill Creek, Canyon Lake, Temecula Creek, Vail Lake Riparian scrub, woodland and forest Habitat loss and fragmentation and nest parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain ecological processes within occupied Habitat and appropriate new areas within the MSHCP Conservation Area. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Areas and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat and implement exotic species control programs within the Core Areas. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP Conservation Area in the future). This species will also be managed for possible brown-headed cowbird parasitism.
yellow warbler
Dendroica petechia brewsteri
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Prado Basin, Santa Ana River, San Timoteo Creek, drainages and woodland areas within San Bernardino National Forest, riparian Habitat areas of Temescal Canyon including tributaries, Wasson Canyon, Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, Vail Lake, Wilson Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau Riparian scrub, woodland & forest, oak woodlands & forest Habitat loss and fragmentation and nest parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will maintain the riparian Habitats within the core population areas. The maintenance of Habitat will be accomplished by preserving the hydrological processes within the drainages that support the potential Habitat and by selectively rehabilitating or revegetating all such areas that are currently fragmented or otherwise degraded by, for instance, infestations of exotic plants and animals (including brown-headed cowbirds). Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area identified in the Species Account will evaluate the condition of the riparian vegetation within the Core Area and maintain a program to enhance and/or create riparian Habitat within the Core Area. Reserve Managers will ensure (once every 5 years) the continued use of, and successful reproduction at, 75% of the Core Areas (including any Core Areas identified in the MSHCP ConservationArea in the future).
FISH
arroyo chub
Gila orcuttii
2 1, 4 Within Santa Ana River, 2-3 km upstream of the Prado Dam to upstream boundary of Plan Area, Santa Margarita River, De Luz Creek upstream of the De Luz Post Office, lower Sandia Creek, Murrieta Creek near its mouth at the Santa Margarita River, Cole Creek between the confluence of Murrieta Creek and the edge of the Conservancy property, and Temecula Creek upstream of Vail Lake open water and emergent vegetation Habitat based threats (e.g., degradation, fragmentation, destruction), biological threats (e.g., predation, competition), and water quality threats (e.g., temperature, salinity, pollution) General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will prepare an Adaptive Management plan for the arroyo chub. The management plan will address threats to the chub from degraded Habitat, including reduced water quality, loss of Habitat and introduction of non-native species; identify areas of the watershed that are necessary to successful spawning of the chub; and identify and implement Habitat Conservation measures to protect these critical areas from degradation due to flood control and water Conservation operations. The management plan will also include monitoring to assess current range of chub movement within the Santa Margarita River watershed and assess the need for connectivity within the portion of the watershed in the Plan Area and implement measures to restore connectivity if needed. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create Habitat for the chub to appropriate conditions for spawning, foraging and refugia in both the Santa Ana River and Santa Margarita River watersheds. Reserve Managers will identify and protect spawning sites and monitor annually each of the Core Areas in order to obtain estimates of recruitment success. Enhancement measures will include removal of exotic species, the creation of stream meanders, pool-riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation. Existing flood control structures will be evaluated for need and modified as possible and as the opportunity arises to improve fish Habitat. Within the Santa Ana River, enhancement measures will be concentrated in the area down stream of Mission Boulevard to the Riverside/Orange county line to reduce Habitat favorable to non-native species, thereby reducing predatory and competitive pressure on the chub. Reserve Managers will conduct or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program within the Santa Ana River and Santa Margarita River watersheds. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fish barriers at sources of non-native species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fish through mechanical means (e.g., gill nets, trapping, etc.). Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identifiedin the Santa Margarita Margarita watershed will assess the range of arroyo chub movement in the watershedand the need for connectivity and identify measures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible.
Santa Ana sucker
Catastomus santaanae
3 1, 2, 4 Within Santa Ana River: area upstream of River Rd, btwn River Rd and Prado Dam, downstream of Prado Dam, also Sunnyslope Creek, Market Street Seep, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Anza Park Drain, Arroyo Tequesquite, Hidden Valley Drain, and Evans Lake Drain open water and emergent vegetation Habitat based threats (e.g., degradation, fragmentation, destruction), biological threats (e.g., predation, competition), and water quality threats (e.g., temperature, salinity, pollution) General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will conduct, or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program within the Santa Ana River. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fish barriers at sources of non-native species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fish through mechanical means (e.g., gillnets, trapping, etc.). Reserve Managers will prepare a monitoring plan to assess extent of sucker movement within the Santa Ana River. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, current migration barriers to the sucker include Prado Dam and culverts immediately below River Road Bridge. The management plan will assess the need for population connectivity within the Santa Ana River and implement measures to remove barriers. Reserve Managers will conserve the natural river bottom and banks and adjacent Habitats which provide shade and suitable microclimate conditions (e.g., alluvial terraces, riparian vegetation) of the Santa Ana River with a minimum of 0.5 mile upstream of the confluence of each of the tributaries to the Santa Ana River between the Riverside/San Bernardino County line and the Riverside/Orange County line. Tributaries include Sunnyslope Creek, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Arroyo Tequesquite, Anza Park Drain, Evans Lake Drain, Temescal Creek and Aliso Creek. ReserveManagers will maintain or improve existing water quality and flow levels in the Santa Ana River by the use and enforcement of current or better water quality standards and at a minimum maintenance of existing flows. Permitted activities must maintain current water quality standards and flows. Reserve Managers will enhance and/or create Habitat for the sucker to appropriate conditions for spawning, foraging and refugia within the Santa Ana River and its tributaries as directed in the management plan. Enhancement measures will include control of exotic plant species, the creation of stream meanders, pool-riffle complexes and reestablishment of native riparian vegetation. Enhancement measures will be concentrated in the area between Mission Boulevard and the Riverside/Orange county line to reduce Habitat favorable to non native species, thereby reducing predatory and competitive pressure on the sucker. Reserve Managers will protect and manage the core population areas upstream of River Road, between River Road and Prado Dam, and downstream of Prado Dam, the known spawning areas at Sunnyslope Creek and within the area just below Mission Boulevard upstream to the Rialto Drain and refugia and dispersal areas including the Market Street Seep, Mount Rubidoux Creek, Anza Park Drain, Arroyo Tequesquite, Hidden Valley Drain, and Evans Lake Drain. Reserve Managers will identify and implement steps to reduce the turbidity that currently affect the water quality below the Prado Dam by conducting a sediment transport study on the Santa Ana River in cooperation with other Federal, local and state agencies. Reserve Managers responsible for the areas identified in Objectives 2 and 3 of the Species Account will assess barriers to sucker movement and the need for connectivity and identifymeasures to restore connectivity to be implemented as feasible. Reserve Managers will conduct, or cooperate with Federal, state and local agencies in, a bullfrog and non-native fish species eradication program withinthe Santa Ana River. Fishes to be eradicated include channel catfish, carp, largemouth bass, green sunfish, bullhead, tilapia, and mosquitofish. This program will include the development of fishbarriers at sources of non-native species (e.g., Prado ponds or Evans Lake) and the active removal of non-native fishthrough mechanical means (e.g., gillnets, trapping, etc.).
INVERTEBRATES/CRUSTACEANS
Riverside fairy shrimp
Streptocephalus woottoni
3 4 Santa Rosa Plateau, Murrieta, Skunk Hollow, Elsinore back basin, Alberhill Playas and vernal pools Altered hydrology, farming and discing, illegal dumping. General Management Measure 4. Each Reserve Manager responsible for a Core Area containing Murrieta stony clay loams, Las Posas series, Wyman clay loam, or Willows soils will evaluate their Core Area for the presence of historic or vestigial vernal pools. A program to enhance these areas will be undertaken. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, that pond water seasonally will be identified and monitored for the presence of fairy shrimp. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved known or future vernal pools or depressions. Particular management emphasis will be given to discing, illegal dumpingand maintaining hydrology.
Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp
Linderiella santarosae
3 4 Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve Playas and vernal pools on basalt flow soils Altered hydrology. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved known and future basalt vernal pools. Particular management emphasis will be given to maintaining hydrology.
vernal pool fairy shrimp
Branchinecta lynchi
3 2, 4 Salt Creek, Santa Rosa Plateau, Skunk Hollow Playas and vernal pools on alkali playa soils Flood control, altered hydrology, farming and discing, sheep and cattle grazing, non-native Habitat creation. General Management Measure 4. Reserve Managers will ensure Habitat support functions within the MSHCP Conservation Area by maintaining and/or preserving watersheds of conserved vernal pools or depressions. Particular management emphasis will be given to farming, grazing, alteration of hydrologyand non-native Habitat creation.
INVERTEBRATES/INSECTS
Delhi Sands flower-loving fly
Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis
3 1 populations northwest of I-15/60 interchange and those south of Agua Mansa Road, Jurupa Hills, Agua Mansa industrial center Coastal sage scrub, grassland, alluvial sage scrub over Delhi soils Exotic, invasive and competing species; farming and discing; mining; sheep and cattle grazing; illegal dumping; off-road vehicles; human collection; Habitat fragmentation; local extirpation. Reserve Managers will manage conserved lands to maintain presence of Delhi fly at existing levels and provide opportunities for colonization by Delhi fly within the 170 acres of restorable lands to be conserved. Management considerations will include measures to maintain ecological processes (i.e., sand transport). As opportunities are available, Reserve Managers will work with others involved in Delhi fly conservation outside the Plan Area to develop a scientifically acceptable program for determining long-term evidence of successful reproduction. Particular management measures for known and future occurrences will include sand management (possibly transporting soils mechanically within the MSHCP Conservation Area to ensure that sand is maintained). The Core Areas will be fenced and signed to prevent trespassing,possibly patrolled. These sites will be weeded and planted with native seed collected locally.
Quino checkerspot butterfly
Euphydryas editha quino
3 4 Lake Mathews, Estelle Mountain, Harford Springs, Warm Springs, Johnson Ranch, Lake Skinner, Oak Mountain, Wilson Valley, Sage, Silverado/Tule Peak. Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, playas and vernal pools, desert scrubs, alluvial fan scrub, Juniper woodland. Fire and fire suppression; exotic, invasive and competing species; farming and discing; sheep and cattle grazing; off-road vehicles; human collection; Habitat fragmentation; local extirpation. Each Reserve Manager will evaluate the condition of the Quino checkerspot Habitat within their Core Area and maintain an adaptive program to maintain and/or enhance Quino checkerspot Habitat to increase the value of the Habitat and viability of the Quino checkerspot. This Adaptive Management program will assess the efficacy of various methods such as fire to retain a low vegetation layer or open aspect to the vegetation and remove weedy annual species; using mechanical equipment to attain Habitat openings within dense chaparral areas between occupied areas to facilitate movement; or other measures which might enhance unoccupied Habitat or preserve Habitat quality in occupied areas. Reserve Managers will maintain landscape connectivity around the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain/Harford Springs Core Area and between and among the core and satellite occurrence populations in the southeastern portion of the Plan Area. In the Lake Mathews Core Area, the MSHCP Conservation Area configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between Lake Mathews, Olsen Canyon, Monument Peak, Dawson Canyon, Estelle Mountain, Bull Canyon, Steele Valley, Gavilan Hills, and Harford Springs areas. (In the southwestern Riverside County area, reserve configuration will maintain landscape connectivity through native Habitat between and among the core population occurrences and the satellite occurrences in Antelope Valley and Murrieta Hot Springs area, east through the French Valley/Lake Skinner area, east to the Sage and Santa Rosa Hills area, east and south through Wilson Valley, Billy Goat Mountain, Aguanga, Tule Valley, and north to Anza and the Cahuilla Indian Reservation.) Reserve Managers willdocument distribution on an annual basis. Other management activities will focus on non-native species, farming, grazing, off-road vehicles and human collection.
MAMMALS
Aguanga kangaroo rat
Dipodomys merriami collinus
3 5 Aguanga, Sage, Temecula Creek, Wilson Creek Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, desert scrub, grassland Sheep and cattle grazing, sand and gravel mining, off-road vehicles Within the 5,484 acres of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will ensure that at least 75 percent of the total is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 823 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (5 to 15 individuals per hectare; based on McKernan 1997 studies of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat) of the species as measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic flood plains of Temecula Creek and Wilson Creek, their tributaries, and other localities within the Criteria Area where the Aguanga kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes which shall include 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial sage scrub Habitat, 2) careful planning and design of existing and future authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water conservation, and sand and gravel mining, 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism, and 4) control of invasive exotic species. Management activities will also address grazing.
bobcat
Lynx rufus
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Santa Rosa Plateau, Santa Ana Mountains, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Santa Ana River, Vail Lake, Sage, Aguanga, Anza Valley, Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, montane coniferous forest, riparian scrub, woodland and forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat fragmentation, disease, recreational activities (hiking, mountain biking), hunting, off-road vehicles, harassment by pet and feral dogs, and vehicle collisions Reserve Managers will maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Reserve Managers will evaluate existing undercrossings in key areas for their adequacy and will improve as necessary to convey bobcats. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following: the crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River, the crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon, the crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible “Rainbow" overpass, and undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands and the possible undercrossing at I-40 in the Banning area.
brush rabbit
Sylvilagus bachmani
1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Santa Rosa Plateau, Sage, Anza Valley, foothills of San Jacinto Mountains Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, woodlands & forest Disease, roadkill, predation by dogs and cats and hunting General Management Measure 1.
coyote
Canis latrans
1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Occurs in suitable habitat throughout Plan Area Agriculture, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, developed, grassland, montane coniferous forest, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub, Rriversidean alluvial fan sagescrub, woodlands & forest Vehicle collisions and predator control General Management Measure 1.
Dulzura kangaroo rat
Dipodomys simulans
1 2, 3, 4, 5 Occurs throughout Plan Area in suitable habitat at elevations less than 2,600 feet Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland-scrub ecotone, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub at elevations less than 2,600feet. Farming and discing for weed abatement. General Management Measure 1.
long-tailed weasel
Mustela frenata
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Occurs in suitable habitat throughout Plan Area Agriculture, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland, meadows and marshes, montane coniferous forest, playas and vernal pools, riparian scrub, woodlands and forest,Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub No documented known threats, but potential threats include flood control, altered hydrology, mining, disease, off-road vehicles and predation and harassment by pet cats and dogs. Reserve Managers will maintain (once every 8 years) the continued use of long-tailed weasel at a minimum of 75 percent of the localities in the MSHCP Conservation Area where the species has been known to occur.
Los Angeles pocket mouse
Perognathus longimembris brevinasus
3 1, 2, 4, 5 San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, Potrero Valley, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, Anza Valley, Aguanga, Temecula Creek, Badlands, San Timoteo Creek, San Jacinto River, Reche Canyon, Vail Lake Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, desert scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, plays and vernal pools Flood control, farming and discing, non-native plant species (e.g., bromes and mustards), sand and gravel mining Reserve Managers will ensure that each of the 7 Core Areas shall support a stable or increasing population that occupies at least 30 percent of the suitable Habitat (at least 4,200 acres) as measured over any 8-consecutive year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Particular management emphasis will be given to flood control, farming, mining, and invasive non-native plant species.
mountain lion
Puma concolor
2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Badlands, Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills, San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains and Foothills, Santa Rosa Mountains Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, montane coniferous forest, woodland and forest, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat fragmentation and isolation, indiscriminate shootings, predator control, active recreation (hiking, mountain biking, equestrian, off-road vehicles), vehicle collisions, disease Reserve Managers will maintain or improve functionality of dispersal routes. Reserve Managers will evaluate existing undercrossings in key areas for their adequacy and will improve as necessary to convey mountain lions. Key crossings that will be evaluated include, but are not limited to, the following: the crossing of State Highway 91 that connects the Santa Ana Mountains with the Chino Hills via Fresno Canyon-Green River, the crossings of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain via Indian Canyon and Horsethief Canyon, the crossing(s) of Interstate 15 that connect the Santa Ana Mountains with the Agua Tibia Wilderness-Palomar Mountains via Pechanga Creek or the possible “Rainbow" overpass, and undercrossings of State Highway 60 in the Badlands and the possible undercrossing at I-40 in the Banning area.
northwestern San Diego pocket mouse
Chaetodipus fallax fallax
1 2, 3, 4, 5 Occurs throughout Plan Area in suitable habitat Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, desert scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Known threats not specifically identified, but potential threats include exotic and invasive plant species (e.g., bromes and mustards), predation and harassment by domestic cats and dogs, habitat loss and fragmentation, farming and discing for weedabatement, and pesticides. General Management Measure 1.
San Bernardino flying squirrel
Glaucomys sabrinus californicus
3 3 San Jacinto Mountains Montane coniferous forest, montane riparian forest, broad-leaf upland forest Loss and fragmentation of Habitat, timber and firewood harvesting, brush management, barbed wire fencing, predation, lack of food resources, lack of tree cavities, fungi harvesting, and recreation. Within the MSHCP Conservation Area, confirm occupation of 1,000 ha (2,470 acres) with a mean density of at least 2 individuals per hectare (2 individuals per 2.47 acres) in the San Jacinto Mountains; and in the San Bernardino Mountains confirm occupation of 100 ha.
San Bernardino kangaroo rat
Dipodomys merriami parvus
3 2 San Jacinto River between SR 79 and the boundary w/ Forest Service lands, Bautista Creek from dam to Hixon Flat Trailhead Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, grassland Habitat loss, fragmentation and isolation, flood control, water conservation projects, farming and discing, sand and gravel mining, sheep and cattle grazing, illegal dumping and vandalism, off-road vehicles Within the 4,440 acres of occupied and suitable Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, Reserve Managers will ensure that at least 75 percent of the total (3,330 acres) is occupied and that at least 20 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 666 acres) supports a medium or higher population density (> 5 to 15 individuals per hectare; based on McKernan 1997 studies of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat) of the species as measured across any 8-year period (i.e., the approximate length of the weather cycle). Reserve Managers will maintain or, if feasible, restore ecological processes within the historic flood plains of the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek, their tributaries, and other localities within the Criteria Area where the San Bernardino kangaroo rat is detected in the future, given existing constraints and activities covered under the Plan. Maintenance or, if feasible, restoration of ecological processes shall include 1) allowing for natural dynamic fluvial processes of flooding, scouring and Habitat regeneration, and possibly fire, to maintain healthy alluvial sage scrub Habitat, 2) careful planning and design of existing and future authorized uses that may affect natural processes such as flood control, water conservation, and sand and gravel mining, 3) control of other uses and disturbances such as farming and discing for weed abatement, heavy grazing, off-road vehicles, and vandalism, and 4) control of invasive exotic species and domestic animals.
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit
Lepus californicus bennettii
1 1, 2, 4, 5 Jurupa Hills, Sycamore Canyon Regional Park, Kabian Park, the Badlands, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake area, Wildomar-Sedco Hills, Gavilan Hill-Lake Mathews, Santa Rosa Plateau,Sage-Wilson Valley, Tule Valley, Vail Lake-Aguanga, Anza Valley Coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub, playas and vernal pools Habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, vehicle collisions, hunting, landowner extirpation, canid predation General Management Measure 1.
San Diego desert woodrat
Neotoma lepida intermedia
1 2, 4, 5 Occurs throughout Plan Area in suitable habitat Grassland, open, sparse coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat loss, fragmentation and (loss of microhabitat patches of rock outcrops, cactus patches and other areas of dense shrubs or specifically identified middens), predation by domestic animals, farming and discing for weed abatement, cattle and sheep grazing, high fire frequency. General Management Measure 1.
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Dipodomys stephensi
2 2, 4, 5 San Jacinto Wildlife Area-Lake Perris, Sycamore Canyon-March Air Force (Reserve) Base, Potrero Area of Critical Environmental Concern, the Badlands (Potrero Valley), Lake Mathews-Estelle Mountain, Motte-Rimrock Reserve, Lake Skinner-Diamond Valley Lake, SteelePeak, Anza/Cahuilla Valleys Coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, grassland, Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub Habitat loss, fragmentation and isolation, fire and fire suppression, exotic, invasive and competing species, farming and discing, sheep and cattle grazing, off-road vehicles, rodenticides, predation by pet cats and dogs, and artificial lighting. Within the minimum 15,000 acres of occupied Habitat in the MSHCP Conservation Area, maintain at least 30 percent of the occupied Habitat (approximately 4,500 acres) at a population density of medium or higher (i.e., at least 5-10 individuals per hectare; O'Farrell and Uptain 1989) across all Core Areas. No single Core Area will account for more than 30 percent of the total medium (or higher) population density area.
PLANTS
beautiful hulsea
Hulsea vestita ssp.callicarpha
2 3