Appendix
D
Special-Status Species Evaluation
Purpose of this Appendix
The National Park Service has prepared the Happy
Isles Gauging Station Bridge Removal Project Environmental Assessment
to guide the future of the Happy
Isles Gauging Station Bridge Removal Project. This appendix
evaluates the potential effects of the Happy
Isles Gauging Station Bridge Removal Project on federally
protected and other special-status species.
The Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended, requires all federal agencies to consult with the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service before taking actions that could jeopardize the
continued existence of species that are “listed” or proposed to be
listed as threatened or endangered, or could result in the destruction
or adverse modification of critical or proposed critical habitat. The
first step in the consultation process is to obtain a list of
protected species from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
In addition, Council
on Environmental Quality Regulations for Implementing the
National Environmental Policy Act
(Section 1508.27) also require considering whether the
action may violate federal, state, or local law or requirements
imposed for the protection of the environment. For this reason,
species listed under the California Endangered Species Act or accorded
“special status” (i.e., considered rare or sensitive) by the
California Department of Fish and Game are included in this analysis.
Also
included in this analysis are park
rare species. Park rare species
are those that have no other status (either state or federal), have
extremely limited distributions in the park and may represent relict
populations from past climatic or topographic conditions, may be at
the extreme extent of their range in the park, or represent changes in
species genetics. They are included in this analysis because they
could be affected (due to proximity to human use zones, or
susceptibility of individual plants or populations to loss from
natural or unnatural events), and their existence is considered when
evaluating consequences for any proposed management action.
This evaluation is prepared in accordance with
Section 7 of the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended
and implementing regulations [19 U.S.C. 1536 (c), 50 CFR 402.14(c)],
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements (U.S.W.C.
4332(2)(c), and direction provided in the 1988 National
Park Service Management Policies (4:11). The purpose of this
document is to:
·
Evaluate the effects of the proposed action on special-status
species or their critical habitat that are known to be or could be present within the project area.
·
Determine the need for consultation and conference with
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
·
Conform to requirements of
the Endangered Species Act (19 U.S.C. 1536 (c), 50 CFR 402) and the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et
seq., implemented at 40 CFR Parts 1500-1508).
The
National Park Service will submit this evaluation to the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service as the next step in the consultation process. The
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will review the evaluation determine if
formal consultation under the Endangered Species Act is required. The
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will render either a letter of
concurrence, stating that the proposed action is not likely to
adversely affect a federally listed species, or a biological opinion
detailing whether the preferred alternative is likely to jeopardize
federally listed species or critical habitat.
Species Evaluated
The various federal, state, and National Park
Service categories for special-status species evaluated herein are
defined below:
·
Federal endangered: Any species that is in danger of extinction
throughout all or a significant portion of its national range.
·
Federal threatened: Any species that is likely to become an
endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a
significant portion of its national range.
·
Federal species of concern: Any species that may become
vulnerable to extinction on a national level from declining population
trends, limited range, and/or continuing threats (note that this is no
longer an official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service category, but is
still considered in this document because it contains many species
that could become threatened or endangered).
·
California endangered: Any species that is in danger of
extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range in the
state.
·
California threatened: Any species that is likely to become an
endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a
significant portion of its state range.
·
California species of special concern: Any species that may
become vulnerable to extinction on a state level from declining
population trends, limited range, and/or continuing threats; could
become threatened or endangered.
·
California rare (plants only): A native plant that, although
not currently threatened with extinction, is present in small numbers
throughout its range, such that it may become endangered if its
present environment worsens.
·
Park rare (plants only): Identified by the National Park
Service based upon the following criteria:
–
Locally rare native
–
Listed by the California Native Plant Society
–
Endemic to the park or its local vicinity
–
At the furthest extent of its range
–
Of special importance to the
park (identified in legislation or park management objectives)
–
The subject of political concern or unusual public interest
–
Vulnerable to local population declines
– Subject to human disturbance during critical
portions of its life cycle
Based on data gathered from the National Park
Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and California Natural
Diversity Database, table D-1 presents summary information on
federally listed threatened or endangered species; species of concern
(former federal category 2 species); state-listed threatened,
endangered, and rare species; and species that are locally rare or
threatened considered in this evaluation. A total of 60 special-status
species (38 wildlife species and 22 plant species) have been
considered in the evaluation of this project. Additional data on these
species are included in the Biological Assessments for the Merced
Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan and Yosemite
Valley Plan on file at Yosemite National Park.
Species Removed from Further
Analysis
All species
listed in table D-1 except bald eagle, Wawona riffle beetle, harlequin
duck, and California spotted owl (a total of 56 special-status
species) have been removed from further analysis. Refer to Chapter III
for background data on these species and Chapter IV for information
regarding potential impacts of the proposed action and alternatives.
The National Park Service has determined that the 56 special-status
species removed from further analysis would not be affected by the
proposed action because they do not occur in the project area.
Therefore, there would be no direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on
these species from the alternatives. These species are not evaluated
further in this Environmental Assessment.
Critical Habitat
Critical
habitat is a specific area or type of area that is considered to be
essential for the survival of a species as designated by the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act. Critical
habitat has not been designated for any federally listed
species that is known or has potential to occur within the within the
project area.
TABLE D-1:
Special-Status Species Considered in this Analysis
|
|
Statusa
|
|
|
Species
|
USFWS
|
State
|
Park
|
Habitat
Type/Occurrence
|
Determination
|
FEDERALLY
LISTED THREATENED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES
|
Fish
|
|
Paiute cutthroat trout
Oncorhynchus
(=Salmo) clarke seleniris
|
FT
|
|
|
The
native range of the this species is limited to approximately 9
miles of stream habitat in Silver King Creek, Alpine County. The
California Department of Fish and Game has introduced this
species into creeks outside its historic range, including
Delancy Creek in Yosemite National Park.
|
Removed from Further Analysis.
This species is not known from the Merced River. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
|
Delta smelt
Hypomesus
transpacificus
|
FT
|
|
|
This
species occurs only in Suisun Bay and the Sacramento-San Joaquin
estuary (“Delta”) near San Francisco Bay in California.
Though the species does not occur in Yosemite National Park, the
park contains the headwaters of tributaries that feed into
downstream habitat for the species.
|
Removed from Further Analysis.
This species does not occur within Yosemite National Park. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Sacramento splittail
Pogonichthys
macrolepidotus
|
FT
|
|
|
Habitat
for this species includes tidal fresh and brackish waters of the
Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, Suisun Bay, Tidal marshes in
Suisun, Nappa, and Petaluma, and the main stem of the Sacramento
River. Though the species does not occur in Yosemite National
Park, the park contains the headwaters of tributaries that feed
into downstream habitat for the species.
|
Removed from Further Analysis.
This species does not occur within Yosemite National Park. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Central Valley steelhead
Oncorhynchus
mykiss
|
FT
|
|
|
This
species occurs in the Sacramento-San Joaquin estuary and
tributaries. Though the species does not occur in Yosemite
National Park, the park contains the headwaters of tributaries
that feed into downstream habitat for the species.
|
Removed from Further Analysis.
This species does not occur within Yosemite National Park. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Reptiles and Amphibians
|
|
California red-legged frog
Rana aurora draytonii
|
FT
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in quiet pools in permanent streams in mixed conifer zones and
foothills. Prefers riparian deciduous habitat. The only recent
records for Yosemite come from a lake at 6,000 feet in elevation
in the northern portion of the park. Surveys at this location
within the last five years have found no red-legged frogs
remaining, only bullfrogs. California red-legged frogs are also
a state species of special concern.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Birds
|
|
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
|
FT
|
CE
|
|
Forages
over rivers, streams, and lakes. Primarily eats fish, also
carrion, waterbirds, and small mammals. Transient through
Yosemite Valley and El Portal. No bald eagles are nesting in the
park (NPS 1997c). The species was proposed for delisting 7/6/99.
|
Considered Further in this
Analysis.
This species is expected as a transient visitor to the greater
project area. Refer to Chapter III for background data on this
species and Chapter IV for an analysis of direct, indirect, or
cumulative effects on this species.
|
FEDERALLY
SPECIES OF CONCERN
|
Invertebrates
|
|
Wawona riffle beetle
Atractelmis wawona
|
FC
|
|
|
This
aquatic species is a listed species due to its limited
distribution in the North and South Forks of the Merced River.
Habitat includes rocks and mossy areas within the river channel.
|
Considered Further in this
Analysis.
Suitable habitat for this species occurs within the channel of
the Merced River. Refer to Chapter III for background data on
this species and Chapter IV for an analysis of direct, indirect,
or cumulative effects on this species.
|
|
Yosemite sideband snail
Helminthoglypta
allynsmithi
|
FC
|
|
|
Found
in rockslide habitat with shade and moisture. This species is
associated with rocky areas that are resistant to effects.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Indian Yosemite snail
Monadenia hillebrandi
yosemitensis
|
FC
|
|
|
Rockslide
areas may be necessary for shelter. This species is associated
with rocky areas that are resistant to effects.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Sierra pygmy grasshopper
Tetrix sierrana
|
FC
|
|
|
Pygmy
grasshoppers are often found in riparian areas, particularly in
the spring and early summer. One record for El Portal (1953).
Occurs in upland and riparian habitats.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Bohart’s blue butterfly
Philotiella speciosa
bohartorum
|
FC
|
|
|
An
annual in the buckwheat family, Chorizanthe
membrancea, is the suspected host. It is found in
association with serpentine soils. No host plants for this
species would be affected by the proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Reptiles and Amphibians
|
|
Limestone
salamander
Hydromantes brunus
|
FC
|
CT
|
|
Very limited distribution along Merced
River and its tributaries between 800 and 2,500 feet in
elevation, usually in association with limestone outcrops. This
species has limited distribution along the Merced River and its
habitat – limestone outcrops.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Mount Lyell salamander Hydromantes
platycephalus
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Occurs
in massive rock areas between 4,000 and 11,500 feet in
elevation, in rock fissures, seeps, shade, and low-growing
plants.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Foothill yellow-legged frog
Rana boylei
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Formerly
abundant and found up to 6,000 feet in elevation, this species
has virtually disappeared from its range in the Sierra Nevada
from unknown causes. Preferred habitat was rocky streams and wet
meadows.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Northwestern pond turtle
Clemys marmorata marmorata
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in the Sierra Nevada up to 6,000 feet in elevation, this species
has decreased by up to 80% in numbers, probably due to habitat
fragmentation and non-native predators. Habitat is permanent,
slow-moving water in a variety of habitat types.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Southwestern pond turtle
Clemys marmorata pallida
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in the Sierra Nevada up to 6,000 feet in elevation, this species
has decreased by up to 80% in numbers, probably due to habitat
fragmentation and non-native predators. Habitat is permanent,
slow-moving water in a variety of habitat types.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area. There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Birds
|
|
Harlequin duck Histrionicus histrionicus
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Breeds
along large, swift-moving mountain rivers. Was formerly found in
every major watershed in the Sierra, but has disappeared.
Formerly nested in Yosemite Valley (NPS 1997c). A pair of
harlequin ducks was observed within the Merced River in 2000. No
recent nesting harlequin duck have been documented within
Yosemite National Park. Nesting pairs of this species are
presumed extirpated from Yosemite National Park.
|
Considered Further in this
Analysis.
Refer to Chapter III for background data on this species and
Chapter IV for an analysis of direct, indirect, or cumulative
effects on this species.
|
|
Northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Favors
moderately dense coniferous forests broken by meadows and other
openings, between 5,000 and 9,000 feet in elevation. Typically
nests in mature conifer stands near streams. Habitat destruction
in its range has caused declines in population. Records exist
for Yosemite Valley, primarily between November and February.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species is considered a transient visitor through the greater
project area. There is
no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
California spotted owl
Strix occidentalis
occidentalis
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Breeds
from oak and ponderosa pine forests upslope to lower-elevation
red fir forests up to 7,600 feet, with mixed conifer the optimum
type. Presence of black oak in the forest canopy also enhances
habitat suitability.
|
Considered Further in this
Analysis.
Suitable habitat for this species occurs within the greater
project area. Refer to Chapter III for background data on this
species and Chapter IV for an analysis of direct, indirect, or
cumulative effects on this species.
|
Mammals
|
|
Spotted bat
Euderma maculatum
|
FC
|
CSC
|
|
Rare
throughout range. Uses crevices in rock faces for roosting and
reproduction. Forages in a wide variety of habitats, primarily
for moths.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Small-footed myotis bat
Myotis ciliolabrum
|
FC
|
|
|
Usually
found above 6,000 feet and in wooded and brushy habitats near
water. Forages among trees and over water. Breeds in colonies in
buildings, caves, and mines (NPS 1997c).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Long-eared myotis bat
Myotis evotis
|
FC
|
|
|
Wide
range, from coast to high Sierra Nevada, in montane oak
woodlands. Roosts primarily in hollow trees, especially large
snags or lightning-scarred, live trees.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Fringed myotis bat
Myotis thysanodes
|
FC
|
|
|
Found
to at least 6,400 feet in the Sierra Nevada, in deciduous/mixed
conifer forests. Feeds over water, in open habitats, and by
gleaning from foliage. Roosts in caves, mines, buildings, and
trees, especially large conifer snags.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Long-legged
myotis bat
Myotis volans
|
FC
|
|
|
Found up to high elevations in the
Sierra Nevada, in montane coniferous forest habitats. Forages
over water, close to trees and cliffs, and in openings in
forests. Roosts primarily in large-diameter snags. Forms nursery
colonies numbering hundreds of individuals, usually under bark
or in hollow trees.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Yuma myotis bat
Myotis yumanensis
|
FC
|
|
|
Usually
occurs below 8,000 feet in elevation. Forages over open, still,
or slow-moving water and above low vegetation in meadows. Roosts
in buildings, caves, or crevices. Nursery colonies of several
thousand individuals may be in buildings, caves, or mines.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Greater western mastiff bat
Eumops perotis
californicus
|
FC
|
|
|
Found
in a variety of habitats to over 8,000 feet in elevation. Roosts
primarily in crevices in cliff faces, and occasionally trees.
Detected most often over meadows and other open areas, but will
also feed above forest canopy; sometimes to high altitudes
(1,000 feet).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Vegetation
|
|
Congdon’s lomatium
Lomatium congdonii
|
FC
|
|
|
Restricted
to serpentine and metamorphic soils in canyon live oak
woodlands.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
STATE-LISTED
SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES AND SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN
|
Birds
|
|
Golden eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
|
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in a wide range of elevations in the park. Needs open terrain
for hunting. Feeds primarily on small mammals. Nests on cliffs
and in large trees in open areas.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species is considered a transient visitor through the greater
project area. There is no expected direct, indirect, or
cumulative effect on this species from the proposed action and
this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperi
|
|
CSC
|
|
A
hawk of wooded areas, found up to 9,000 feet in the Sierra
Nevada. Numerous recent records for Yosemite, especially in
Yosemite Valley. Habitat destruction in its range has led to
population declines. Frequently hunts along wooded edges (NPS
1997c).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species is relatively tolerant of high levels of disturbance.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Sharp-shinned hawk
Accipiter striatus
|
|
CSC
|
|
Hunts
in open coniferous forest and edges of meadows and clearings
between 4,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation in the Sierra Nevada.
Nests in forests. One old (1930) nesting record for Yosemite
Valley (NPS 1997c).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species is relatively tolerant of high levels of disturbance.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Prairie falcon
Falco mexicanus
|
|
CSC
|
|
Primarily
associated with open areas such as grasslands and meadows, where
it feeds on small mammals and birds. Nests on cliffs. Numbers
have declined in California due to several probable factors,
including nest robbing by humans, control of prey species, and
pesticides. Many records of this species in alpine areas of
Yosemite National Park and occasionally seen in Yosemite Valley.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species is considered a transient visitor through the greater
project area. There is no expected direct, indirect, or
cumulative effect on this species from the proposed action and
this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatum
|
FD
|
CE
|
|
Usually
nests on high cliffs near water to search for prey. The species
was formally delisted 8/25/99.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species does not nest within the project area. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
|
Long-eared owl
Asio otus
|
|
CSC
|
|
Requires
riparian or other thickets with small, densely canopied trees
for roosting and nesting. Proximity of this habitat to meadow
edges for hunting also enhances quality. One nesting record in
Yosemite Valley in 1915 (NPS 1997c).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species does not nest within the project area. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
|
Great gray owl
Strix nebulosa
|
|
CE
|
|
Entire
California population of this species is restricted to the
Yosemite region, where it reaches southernmost extent of its
North American range. Breeds in mixed conifer/red fir forests
bordering meadows. Winters in mixed conifer down to blue oak
woodlands. Research suggests that human disturbance could affect
foraging success of this species, which may explain its absence
from Yosemite Valley, and raises concern about actions that may
increase human disturbance on great gray owl habitat.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species does not nest within the project area. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
|
Willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii
|
|
CE
|
|
Breeds in mountain meadows and riparian areas from 2,000
- 8,000 feet in elevation in the Sierra Nevada, with lush growth
of shrubby willows. Has disappeared from much of its range, due
to habitat destruction and parasitism from brown-headed
cowbirds. The project area is devoid of lush riparian habitat
necessary to support this species.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species does not nest within the project area. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
|
Yellow warbler Dendroica petechia
|
|
CSC
|
|
Prefers
riparian woodlands, but also breeds in chaparral, ponderosa
pine, and mixed conifer habitats with substantial amounts of
brush. In recent decades, numbers of breeding pairs have
declined dramatically in many lowland areas of California. A
major cause of this decline has apparently been brown-headed
cowbird parasitism (NPS 1997c).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. This
species does not nest within the project area. There is no
expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this species
from the proposed action and this species is not evaluated
further.
|
Mammals
|
|
Pallid bat
Antrozous pallidus
|
|
CSC
|
|
Primarily
found below 6,000 feet in elevation, in a variety of habitats,
especially oak, ponderosa pine, and giant sequoia habitats.
Roosts in rock outcrops, caves, and especially hollow trees.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Pale big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii pallescens
|
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in all habitats up to alpine zone. Requires caves, mines, or
buildings for roosting. Prefers mesic habitats where it gleans
from brush or trees along habitat edges. Recorded at Wildcat
Creek bridge and Mirror Lake (CDFG 1999b).
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
|
Townsend’s big-eared bat
Corynorhinus townsendii
townsendii
|
|
CSC
|
|
Found
in all habitats up to alpine zone. Requires caves, mines, or
buildings for roosting. Prefers mesic habitats where it gleans
from brush or trees along habitat edges.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. No
nesting bats occur within the project area (NPS 2001c). There
is no expected direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on this
species from the proposed action and this species is not
evaluated further.
|
Vegetation
|
|
Congdon’s lewisia
Lewisia congdonii
|
|
R
|
|
Grows
on moist, exposed, metamorphic rock faces and slopes. Occurs in
chaparral and mixed conifer forest on north-facing slopes in
shade.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
PARK
RARE SPECIES
|
Vegetation
|
|
Sugar stick
Allotropa virgata
|
|
|
PR
|
Confined
to black oak and mixed conifer forest areas. Although suitable
habitat for this species occurs within the greater planning
area, this habitat would not be affected by the proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Big-scale balsamroot
Balsmaorhiza macrolepis
var. macrolepis
|
|
|
PR
|
Valley
and foothill grassland and woodland communities. Often
associated with serpentine soils.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Sedge
Carex albonigra
|
|
|
PR
|
Locally
rare in the Sierra Nevada in alpine marshy areas and springs.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Congdon’s sedge
Carex congdoniss
|
|
|
PR
|
Talus
slopes.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Indian paintbrush
Castilleja foliolosa
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
on dry, open, rocky slopes on the edge of chaparral areas.
Suitable habitat for this species is absent from the project
area.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Child’s blue-eyed Mary
Collinsia childii
|
|
|
PR
|
Endemic
to central and southern Sierra Nevada, reaching the northern
extent of its range in Mariposa County. Occurs on shaded slopes
and in open oak and mixed coniferous woodlands. Although
suitable habitat for this species occurs within the greater
planning area, this habitat would not be affected by the
proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Collinsia
Collinsia linearis
|
|
|
PR
|
Restricted
to dry, metamorphic rock outcrops along the metamorphic-granitic
contact zone.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Stream orchid
Epipactis gigantea
|
|
|
PR
|
Restricted
to moist granitic ledges, and planted in landscaped areas.
Although suitable habitat for this species occurs within the
greater project area, this habitat would not be affected by the
proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Fawn-lily
Erythronium purpurascens
|
|
|
PR
|
Endemic
to the Sierra Nevada, growing along shaded stream and river
corridors. Although suitable habitat for this species occurs
within the greater project area, this habitat would not be
affected by the proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Boreal bedstraw
Galium boreale ssp.
septentrionale
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
in wet lower montane meadows. No meadow habitat occurs within
the project area.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Pitcher sage
Lepechinia calycina
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
on rocky slopes within chaparral and canyon live oak woodlands.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Sierra laurel
Leucothoe davisiae
|
|
|
PR
|
Grows
in wet areas and bogs in acid soil.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
False pimpernel
Lindernia dubia var.
anagallidea
|
|
|
PR
|
Lives
in wet meadows.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Congdon’s monkeyflower
Mimulus congdonii
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
in granitic soils in disturbed areas, seeps, runoff areas on
slopes. Although suitable habitat for this species occurs within
the greater project area, this habitat would not be affected by
the proposed action.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Palmer’s monkeyflower
Mimulus palmeri
|
|
|
PR
|
Restricted
to damp, shaded slopes under canyon live oaks.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Azure penstemon
Penstemon azureus ssp.
angustissimus
|
|
|
PR
|
Generally
found in moist woodlands and open forests.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Phacelia
Phacelia platyloba
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
in gravelly or rocky soils in chaparral and canyon live oak
woodland.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Phacelia
Phacelia tanacetifolia
|
|
|
PR
|
Grows
in moist sandy and gravelly open areas.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Wood saxifrage
Saxifraga mertensiana
|
|
|
PR
|
Endemic
to northern and central Sierra Nevada. Grows on mossy rocks and
moist cliffs.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
|
Ladies’ tresses
Spiranthes porrifolia
|
|
|
PR
|
Found
in wet meadows.
|
Removed from Further Analysis. Suitable
habitat for this species is absent from the project area.
There is no expected direct,
indirect, or cumulative effect on this species from the proposed
action and this species is not evaluated further.
|
Previous Environmental Documentation
The
following list compiles all extant environmental documentation for
projects either within the park and applicable to the project area and
river corridor, or prepared by other federal agencies with
responsibilities for the Merced Wild and Scenic River as designated by
Congress.
Bureau
of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of the Interior
1990 Merced
Wild and Scenic River Draft Management Plan, February.
GEN-23
1990 Merced
Wild and Scenic River Management Plan Environmental Assessment, April.
1991
Merced Wild and Scenic
River Management Plan (Final), March.
National
Park Service (NPS), U.S. Department of Interior
1977Natural Resources Management Plan for Yosemite National Park.
National Park Service, Yosemite National Park, California.
GEN-42
1978
Draft Environmental Impact
Statement, General Management Plan, Yosemite National Park, August.
CUL-03
GEN-43
1980
General Management
Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement, Yosemite National Park.
VEG-06
1990 Preliminary
Report on the Merced River (Yosemite Valley) Fish Population Survey in
1990.
OPS-07
HYD-27
WIL-01
HYD-02
1991 Analysis of Bank Erosion on the Merced River, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite
National Park by
M. Madej, W. Weaver and D. Hagans. Prepared by Redwood National Park.
GEN-56
HYD-28
1991 1991
Merced River Angler Survey, Yosemite Valley.
VEG-05
1992 Prediction
of the Effects of Restoration of the El Capitan Moraine, Yosemite
National Park by G.M. Smillie, W.L. Jackson and M. Martin. Technical
Report NPS/NRWRD/NRTR-92/10. Washington, D.C.: National Park Service.
LU-03
1993 Resources
Management Plan, Yosemite National Park.
VEG-01
1993 Yosemite
National Park Standard Operating Procedure: Ending Removal of Fallen
Trees from the Merced River, Yosemite Valley. Yosemite National
Park.
TRA-11
VEG-10
1994 1994
Yosemite Valley Vegetation Map Analysis.
1994 The
Plant Communities of Yosemite Valley – A Map and Descriptive Key.
Technical Report NPS/WRUC/NRTR 94-01 by Lisa Acree. Davis, CA:
CNPSU/NPS.
WIL-11
HYD-20
1995 Threatened,
Endangered, and Sensitive Species, Yosemite National Park, California. Species
list.
HYD-05
1996
Draft Addendum/Supplement
to the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the General Management
Plan, Yosemite Valley Housing Plan, Yosemite National Park, California,
August.
GEN-06
HYD-21
1996 Merced
River Restoration, Yosemite Valley, 1991-1995 by Elizabeth Tucker.
Yosemite National Park.
REC-03
CUL-01
HYD-07
1997
Channel Changes in the Merced
River Following the January 1997 Flood by Mary Ann Madej, Vicki Ozaki, Carrie Jones and
Gregory Gibbs.
1997
Happy Isles Area Plan. Prepared by Royston Hanamoto Alley and
Abey, provided by the Yosemite Fund, June.
SOC-02
1997
Draft Yosemite Valley
Implementation Plan/Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. USDOI/
National Park Service.
GEN-57
1997
El Portal Road
Improvements. Environmental Assessment. Prepared by Volpe National
Transportation Systems Center.
HYD-12
GEN-32
1997
Vegetation Management Plan,
Yosemite National Park, June.
REC-06
WIL-03
1998 Biological
Assessment on the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle and the California
Red-legged Frog for the Yosemite Valley Housing Plan Draft
Addendum/Supplement to the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the
General Management Plan.
HYD-25
1998 Yosemite
Falls Corridor Project Environmental Assessment. Prepared by
Environmental Science Associates, June.
GEN-03
1999 Comprehensive
Management Plan Merced Wild and Scenic River, Assumptions and Options.
GEN-49
GEN-62
1999 Merced
River Ecosystem Management Plan Outline.
1999
Happy Isles Gauging Station Bridge, Yosemite National Park,
California, Report of Survey No. RS88099908. September 28.
GEN-25
1999 Merced
Wild and Scenic River Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement.
GEN-09
1999 “Notice
of Scoping for the Merced Wild and Scenic River Management Plan,
Yosemite National Park, Mariposa and Madera Counties, California,” Federal Register, 64(112):31605-31606.
2000
Bridge Inspection Report, Happy Isles Trail Bridge, Happy Isles
Trail over Merced River, Yosemite National Park, Structure No.
8800-037S, August.
HYD-39
OPS-13
2000 Draft
Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan/
Environmental Impact Statement, Biological Assessment, January.
2000 Merced
Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan/Draft Environmental
Impact Statement, January.
2000Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive
Management Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement,
June.
2000
Final Yosemite Valley
Plan/Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement,
November.
2001Merced Wild and Scenic River
Comprehensive Management Plan.
Yosemite National Park, February.
2001
Steve Thompson. Wildlife Biologist. Personal communication, July.
United States Forest Service (USFS), U.S.
Department of Agriculture
1999
Analysis of Public Comments, Notice of Scoping for Preparation of
a Comprehensive Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for
the Merced Wild and Scenic River. Prepared
for Yosemite National Park by Content Analysis Enterprise Team.
Washington D.C.: USDA Forest Service.
GEN-31
1999 Public
Comments - Comprehensive Management Plan for the Merced Wild and Scenic
River. Prepared for Yosemite National Park by Content Analysis
Enterprise Team. Washington D.C.: USDA Forest Service.
U.S.
Forest Service (USFS), U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of
Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of the Interior
1989
South Fork Merced and
Merced River Wild and Scenic Rivers Classifications and Boundary
Location and Environmental Assessment.
1991
South Fork and Merced Wild
and Scenic River Final Environmental Impact Statement, November.
GEN-35
1991 South
Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation Plan, November.
GEN-36
1991 South
Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic Rivers Record of Decision, November.
|
