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The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB), Euwallacea sp., is an invasive beetle that carries two fungi: Fusarium euwallaceae and Graphium sp. The adult female (A) tunnels galleries into a wide variety of host trees, where it lays its eggs and grows the fungi. The fungi cause a disease called Fusarium Dieback (FD), which interrupts the transport of water and nutrients in over 110 tree species. Once the beetle/fungal complex has killed the host tree, pregnant females fly in search of a new host.

The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB), Euwallacea sp., is an invasive beetle that carries two fungi: Fusarium euwallaceae and Graphium sp. A reproductive host is a tree species that is suitable for reproduction of the next generation of beetles and the growth and development of the symbiotic fungi. Reproductive hosts are currently the priority species for control activities as they are able to produce beetles capable of spreading the infestation.

The impact of human land uses on ecological systems typically differ relative to how extensively natural conditions are modified. Exurban development is intermediate-intensity residential development that often occurs in natural landscapes. Most species-habitat models do not evaluate the effects of such intermediate levels of human development and even fewer predict how future development patterns might affect the amount and configuration of habitat. We addressed these deficiencies by interfacing a habitat model with a spatially-explicit housing-density model to study the effect of human land uses on the habitat of pumas (Puma concolor) in southern California. We studied the response of pumas to natural and anthropogenic features within their home ranges and how mortality risk varied across a gradient of human development. We also used our housing-density model to estimate past and future housing densities and model the distribution of puma habitat in 1970, 2000, and 2030. The natural landscape for pumas in our study area consisted of riparian areas, oak woodlands, and open, conifer forests embedded in a chaparral matrix. Pumas rarely incorporated suburban or urban development into their home ranges, which is consistent with the hypothesis that the behavioral decisions of individuals can be collectively manifested as population-limiting factors at broader spatial scales. Pumas incorporated rural and exurban development into their home ranges, apparently perceiving these areas as modified, rather than non-habitat. Overall, pumas used exurban areas less than expected and showed a neutral response to rural areas. However, individual pumas that selected for or showed a neutral response to exurban areas had a higher risk of mortality than pumas that selected against exurban habitat. Exurban areas are likely hotspots for pumahuman conflict in southern California. Approximately 10% of our study area will transform from exurban, rural, or undeveloped areas to suburban or urban by 2030, and 35% of suitable puma habitat on private land in 1970 will have been lost by 2030. These land-use changes will further isolate puma populations in southern California, but the ability to visualize these changes had provided a new tool for developing proactive conservation solutions.

There is a growing body of literature covering the responses of bird species to wildland fire events. Our study was unique among these because we investigated the effects of large-scale wildland fires on entire bird communities across multiple vegetation types. We conducted avian point counts during the breeding seasons for two years before and two years after the Cedar and Otay Fires in 2003 in southern California. Our balanced sampling effort took place at two sites, one low-elevation and one high-elevation, each containing replicate stations (burned and unburned) within five vegetation types: chaparral, coastal sage scrub, grassland, oak woodland, and riparian. Although fire caused some degree of change in the vegetation structure at all of our impacted survey points, we found that the post-fire shrub and tree cover was significantly lower in only two of the vegetation types within the low-elevation site, coastal sage scrub and chaparral. We found no significant changes in cover at the high-elevation site. Using univariate and multivariate analyses, we tested whether the fires were associated with a change in bird species diversity, community structure, and the relative abundance of individuals within a species. We found that species diversity changed in only one circumstance: it increased in coastal sage scrub at the lowelevation site. Multivariate analyses revealed significant differences in the post-fire bird community structure in the low-elevation chaparral, low-elevation coastal sage scrub, and the high-elevation grassland communities. Vegetation characteristics altered by fire, such as decreases in shrub and tree cover, influenced the changes we observed in the bird communities. The relative abundance of some species (lazuli bunting [Passerina amoena] and horned lark [Eremophila alpestris]) significantly increased after the fires, while other species declined significantly (Anna’s hummingbird [Calypte anna], wrentit [Chamaea fasciata], and bushtit [Psaltriparus minimus]). We detected mixed results for the spotted towhee (Pipilo maculatus), which increased in burned chaparral and declined in burned coastal sage scrub within the low-elevation site. We suggest that the observed responses of birds to these fires may be attributed to: (1) the availability of nearby unburned refugia, (2) the continued suitability of post-fire vegetation at the study sites, and (3) the generally high mobility of this taxon.

Protected areas around the world were created with the goals of preserving biodiversity and providing nature-based recreation opportunities for millions of people. This dual mandate guides the management of the majority of the world?s protected areas, but there is growing evidence that quiet, nonconsumptive recreation may not be compatible with biodiversity protection. We combined noninvasive survey techniques and DNA verification of species identifications to survey for mammalian carnivores in 28 parks and preserves in northern California. Paired comparisons of neighboring protected areas with and without recreation revealed that the presence of dispersed, nonmotorized recreation led to a five-fold decline in the density of native carnivores and a substantial shift in community composition from native to nonnative species. Demand for recreation and nature-based tourism is forecasted to grow dramatically around the world, and our findings suggest a pressing need for new approaches to the designation and management of protected areas.

February 28, 2023 MSP Land Managers Meeting. presentations: Pala Forest Health Project: Oak Woodland Health and GSOB Detection, Regional Efforts to Support Pollinator Habitat, Information and Feedback on the Next County-wide Vegetation Map Update.

The purpose of this manual is to provide an overview of new or important fungal pathogens and diseases of coast live oak, and to guide best management practices in dealing with diseased oak trees within the Nature Reserve of Orange County. This manual is not a comprehensive guide of all disease agents that affect coast live oak, and does not cover bacterial or viral diseases or other problems caused by insects and other animals. Descriptions of some important agents (including insects) that are not within the reserve are included herein for prevention management. The practices suggested herein do not guarantee that an introduction or spread of a pathogen will be prevented, but offer ways this may be minimized. Practices are subject to revision as more knowledge about fungal pathogens and their control is revealed through research. They are not to be used as a substitute for consultation with appropriate professionals. The use of these practices is at the user's own risk.

INTRODUCTION The City of San Diego (City) is required to implement a brown-headed cowbird ( Molothrus ater, Cowbird) trapping program at Kumeyaay Lake as requi red by the Biological Opinion issued for construction of the Kumeyaay Campground . The focus trapping area for the program in 2003 was Kumeyaay Lake. Santee, San Diego County, California. Varanus Biological Services (Varanus) placed traps adjacent to nati ve riparian habitats (Southern Willow Riparian Forest and Southern Cottonwood-willow Riparian Forest) in the vicinity of the lake. Since the early 1980's, Cowbird trapping has been an important component of recovery measures in suppo1t ofrecovery of the federally endangered least Bell's vireo (see Morrison et al. 1999), which is a small. insectivorous migratory songbird. The breeding range of the least Bell's vireo is southern California including portions of the California deserts. Least Bell's vireos winter in Baja California. Mex ico and typically migrate northward to their breeding grounds in southern Cal ifornia between mid-March and mid-April and occasionally as late as early May. During the breeding season the least Bell's vireo inhabits an assortment of riparian habitats. Dense low growing thickets of willows (Salix spp.), mule fat (Baccharis salicif olia) , California blackberry ( Rubus ursinus), Douglas' mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana) or other similar species are essential components of the habitat. An overstory composed of willows. cottonwoods (Pop11!11s fi'emo ntii), and/or sycamores ( Platanus racemosa) is often present . Other nesting habitats are dense patches of herbaceous understory in Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest and Coast Live Oak Woodland (W. Haas pers. obs), and occasionally patches of non-native habitat (P. Famolaro pers. com.) that now commonly form intricate mosaics with native habitats throughout the current breeding range of this species. Once widespread through much of California. the breedi ng range of the Least Bell 's Vireo extended from the northern edge of the Sacramento Valley of California to no1ihern Baja California. Least Bell's vireo population numbers declined dramatically between the l 940's and mid-1980's (Franzreb 1989). Two factors are primarily responsible for the decline and hence the endangered status of the Least Bell 's Vireo: habitat loss resulting from eradication, fragmentation, and degradation of riparian habitats; and brood parasit ism by Cowbird s (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Ser

Michael Brandman Associates (MBA) conducted a baseline biodiversity study of the County of San Diego?s Mount Olympus Preserve (Preserve) to provide the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) with current baseline biological data and information to assist in developing a Resource Management Plan (RMP) including Area Specific Management Directives (ASMDs). The Preserve is located approximately six miles south of the City of Temecula just east of the Community of Rainbow in the northern portion of San Diego County, California. The Preserve is owned and managed by the County of San Diego DPR. Baseline biological surveys were conducted on the 707.6-acre Preserve in the late spring and summer of 2009 (April through September). They detected six vegetation communities including coast live oak woodland, native grassland, non-native grassland, non-native vegetation, southern mixed chaparral, and disturbed habitat were identified within the Preserve. Southern mixed chaparral is the most abundant vegetation community on the Preserve. Plant surveys documented 133 plant species occurring within the Preserve including three sensitive species, two of which are North County Multiple Species Conservation Program (North County MSCP) covered species. Wildlife surveys, along with incidental observations, documented 149 wildlife species within the Preserve including 16 butterfly species, 51 other invertebrate species , one amphibian species, 11 reptile species, 42 bird species, and 27 mammal species. A total of 13 sensitive wildlife species were detected, four of which are North County MSCP covered species.

Summary: This report assesses potential impacts of feral pig populations in southern California (San Diego, Riverside, Imperial, and Orange counties) and Baja California, with an emphasis on San Diego County. We compiled information on the status of pigs in these areas from the literature and interviews with numerous individuals knowledgeable about feral pig populations, including a population recently introduced into San Diego County. We also reviewed available information on the potential impacts of feral pigs on natural resources, water systems, agriculture, and human health, and discussed the feasibility of various control and eradication options. We developed population and habitat suitability models for feral pigs in San Diego County to examine the potential for numeric and geographic expansion following the recent introduction near El Capitan Reservoir. The models suggest that the population has the potential to grow rapidly and expand into large expanses of currently un-occupied habitat. Such expansion could harm natural biological resources, including riparian and oak woodland communities and numerous sensitive species. It is possible that populations could establish in such protected lands as Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Volcan Mountain Preserve, as well as various wilderness areas. This could greatly diminish and possibly nullify large conservation investments already made in this region, including habitat restoration efforts. Finally, an expanding feral pig population in San Diego County could invade and cause grave damage in Baja California, where feral pig populations have not, to date, been reported. Although feral pigs in San Diego County have the potential to spread rapidly, the population is still relatively small and geographically confined. We therefore recommend initiating a pig eradication program as soon as possible. To be successful, however, an eradication program must be preceded by careful planning, coordination, and securing of funding commitments. These efforts should focus on meeting the following conditions (Parkes 1990): 1. There must be no refugia where active pig removal is not allowed. The entire population must be subject to management. 2. There must be no possibility of recolonization. Intentional reintroduction by humans must be prevented. 3. Sufficient funding must be available to maintain eradication activities at a scale and intensity that will remove animals faster than they reproduce. 4. Those attempting

This biological resources report was prepared for the County of San Diego (County) in order to provide information on baseline biological conditions prior to the Cedar Fire of 2003 and to assist in the formation of Area Specific Management Directives (ASMDs) for the Barnett Ranch Open Space Preserve (Preserve) on the approximately 728-acre Barnett Ranch located in the unincorporated Ramona Community Planning Area of central San Diego County east of State Route (SR) 67 and south of SR 78. The project site supports 16 vegetation communities: southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern willow scrub, freshwater seep, riparian scrub, open water, open Engelmann oak woodland, coast live oak woodland, wildflower field, Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed), coastal sage-chaparral scrub, southern mixed chaparral, non-native grassland, eucalyptus woodland, extensive agriculture, disturbed habitat, and developed land. No federally or state listed threatened or endangered plant species were observed on site; however, one plant species of federal special concern was observed: felt-leaved monardella (Monardella hypoleuca ssp. lanata). In addition, four plant species recognized as sensitive by the California Native Plant Society and/or the County were observed: delicate clarkia (Clarkia delicata), San Diego County viguiera (Viguiera laciniata), Engelmann oak (Quercus engelmannii), and ashy-spike moss (Selaginella cinerascens). No animal species listed as threatened or endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or California Department of Fish and Game were observed on the site; however, 10 animals observed on site are federal species of concern: orange-throated whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus beldingi), coastal whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris stejnegeri), coastal rosy boa (Lichanura trivirgata roseofusca), southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens), loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum), white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), Costa's hummingbird (Calypte costae), lark sparrow (Chondestes grammacus), and Pacific slope flycatcher (Empidonax difficilis). Ten animals observed on site are California species of special concern: silvery legless lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra), prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus), northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus exsul), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperi), sharpshinned

In 2009-10, the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) acquired the Pascoe, Cielo Azul, and Helix-Lambron parcels as additions to the Del Dios Highlands Preserve (Preserve). The County manages the Preserve in accordance with an existing Resource Management Plan (RMP) including Area-Specific Management Directives (ASMDs). Dudek conducted a baseline biodiversity study of the parcel additions to provide DPR with current biological data needed to revise the existing Del Dios Highlands Preserve RMP to include the Pascoe, Cielo Azul and Helix-Lambron parcels. This report documents the methods and results of these surveys and provides various recommendations for ASMDs to preserve and enhance the function of the parcel additions as biological open space in the context of the existing Preserve RMP as well as the Draft North County Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) Plan and South County MSCP. Dudek biologists performed the following baseline biological surveys on the parcel additions from fall 2010 through spring 2011: vegetation mapping, focused botanical surveys, exotic species mapping, general butterfly surveys, herpetological pitfall trap and coverboard surveys, aquatic amphibian surveys, avian point count surveys, bat surveys, small mammal trapping, and large and medium mammal surveys. Eight vegetation communities were identified on site including: Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, non-native grassland, southern coast live oak riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, coast live oak woodland, eucalyptus woodland, and disturbed habitat. A total of 136 plant species were recorded on the parcel additions during surveys. Four specialstatus plant species were observed, of which two are MSCP-covered species, and one of these, Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae), is federally and state listed. A total of 147 wildlife species were observed or detected on the parcel additions during surveys, including 4 amphibians, 13 reptiles, 73 birds, 35 mammals, and 22 invertebrates. Twenty-eight special-status wildlife species were observed or detected on the Preserve, including 13 MSCP-covered species.

This framework management and monitoring plan provides guidance to maintain and enhance the conservation values of the Ramona Grasslands Open Space Preserve. The Preserve supports many unique biological resources, provides a suite of important environmental services for the region, and preserves a rich cultural and historic heritage. The Ramona Grasslands Preserve functions as a core habitat area within a regional network of existing and anticipated conservation lands. The coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands of the surrounding landscape, together with the grasslands, riparian habitat, and vernal wetlands of the core area, constitute an exceptional concentration of regionally and globally significant resources. That significance is reflected by the near complete overlap of the Preserve area by federal Critical Habitat designations (San Diego fairy shrimp, arroyo toad, and California gnatcatcher).

The Ramona Grasslands host a unique assemblage of resources: ? The southernmost population of the endangered Stephens? kangaroo rat; ? Unique vernal wetlands that support endangered San Diego fairy shrimp and several rare plant species; ? Santa Maria Creek and associated habitats are important for neotropical migrant songbirds and the endangered arroyo toad; and ? A diverse raptor community, including the largest population of wintering ferruginous hawks in San Diego. Oak savannah, riparian woodlands, alkali playas, native perennial grasslands, and rock outcrops contribute to the diversity and ecosystem functions within the grasslands. These resources are imminently threatened by the indirect impacts of urbanization and thus require science-informed monitoring and management to ensure their persistence. The Ramona Grasslands comprise a significant portion of the Santa Maria Creek subbasin of the San Dieguito River watershed. The Santa Maria Creek, which drains the urbanizing community of Ramona, flows westward through the grasslands, then through Bandy Canyon to its confluence with Santa Ysabel Creek. Below the confluence, the San Dieguito River flows through San Pasqual Valley into Lake Hodges, a City of San Diego drinking water reservoir. The creek corridor serves as both a hydrological and habitat linkage for numerous species. It also provides essential ecosystem processes, such as natural filtration of anthropogenic contaminants that may impair downstream water quality. The Ramona Grasslands Preserve functions as a core habitat area within a regional network of existing and anticipated conservation lands. The coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands of the surrounding landscape, together with the grasslands, riparian habitat, and vernal wetlands of the core area, constitute an exceptional concentration of regionally and globally significant resources. That significance is reflected by the near complete overlap of the Preserve area by federal Critical Habitat designations (San Diego fairy shrimp, arroyo toad, and California gnatcatcher).

Background and Purpose of Fire Monitoring Plan: The 286-acre Blossom Valley Habitat Conservation Area (HCA) burned during the Cedar Fire of 2003. Pre-fire, the HCA contained roughly 180 acres of coastal sage scrub, 58 acres of oak woodland and 50 acres of southern mixed chaparral. The Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM) took title to the property in July of 2004. This Plan fulfills CNLM?s intent to develop a monitoring program that allows preserve managers to determine along what kind of trajectory the HCA is recovering.

This biological resources report was prepared for the County of San Diego (County) in order to provide information on baseline biological conditions prior to the Cedar Fire of 2003 and to assist in the formation of Area Specific Management Directives (ASMDs) for the Barnett Ranch Open Space Preserve (Preserve) on the approximately 728-acre Barnett Ranch located in the unincorporated Ramona Community Planning Area of central San Diego County east of State Route (SR) 67 and south of SR 78. The project site supports 16 vegetation communities: southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern willow scrub, freshwater seep, riparian scrub, open water, open Engelmann oak woodland, coast live oak woodland, wildflower field, Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed), coastal sage-chaparral scrub, southern mixed chaparral, non-native grassland, eucalyptus woodland, extensive agriculture, disturbed habitat, and developed land.

In 2008 San Diego Association of Government (SANDAG) awarded to the San Dieguito River Park (SDRP) a Transnet EMP grant for several Park projects. A component of that grant was invasive plant species control. SDRP utilized the grant funds to enhance and expand several projects throughout the watershed. Projects ranged from pond and oak woodland restoration in Santa Ysabel to high salt marsh enhancement and mitigation in Del Mar.

INTRODUCTION The City of San Diego (City) is required to implement a brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater, BHCO) trapping program at Kumeyaay Lake as required by the Biological Opinion issued for construction of the Kumeyaay Campground. The focus trapping area for the program in 2001 was Kumeyaay Lake, Santee, San Diego County, California. Varanus Biological Services (Varanus) placed traps adjacent to native riparian habitats (Southern Willow Riparian Forest and Southern Cottonwood-willow Riparian Forest) adjacent to the lake. Cowbird trapping is conducted in support of recovery of the federally listed endangered least Bell's vireo ( Vireo bellii p usillus). Least Bell's vireos are small, insectivorous migratory songbirds of extremely limited range. Wintering in Baja California, Mexico, least Bell's vireos typically migrate northward to their breeding grounds in southern California between mid-March and mid-April. They breed almost exclusively in early succession willow-riparian habitats characterized by the presence of dense understory vegetation. Other nesting habitat includes dense patches of herbaceous understory in Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest and Coast Live Oak Woodland, and occasionally in patches of non-native habitat that now commonly form intricate mosaics with native habitats throughout the coastal range of this species. Once widespread in low-elevation riverine valleys as far north as Tehama County in northern California, least Bell's vireo population numbers declined dramatically between the 1940's and mid-l 980's. Two factors are primarily responsible for this species' demise and hence have contributed to its status as an endangered species: habitat loss resulting from eradication, fragmentation and degradation of southern California riparian corridors, and brood parasitism by BHCO. The explosive increase in BHCO population outside its historic range has accompanied the decline of riparian habitat. In southern California, the increase in BHCO has paralleled the decline in numerous other songbird populations including yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia ) and warbling vireo ( Vireo gilvus) in San Diego County (Unitt 1984). Brown-headed cowbirds were historically associated with buffalo and possibly antelope herds, and subsequently livestock in the Great Plains of the United States. It is hypothesized that brood parasitism in BHCO evolved to accommodate the species' reliance on benefits gained foraging among

The County of San Diego's Barnett Ranch Preserve (Preserve) is part of the South and North County Multiple Species Conservation Programs (MSCP) and managed by the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) pursuant to management and monitoring guidelines identified in the South County MSCP and in the Barnett Ranch Preserve Area Specific Management Directives (ASMD). A baseline monitoring study conducted between 2001 and 2003 collected biological data on the Preserve. However, the Cedar Fire in 2003 burned the entire Preserve, effectively changing short term habitat conditions. This report details results of the monitoring surveys conducted in 2009, and provides analysis and conclusions relative to habitat conditions and specific-specific management recommendations. MSCP monitoring guidelines are currently being updated, revised and developed. Regional monitoring approaches and specific habitat monitoring protocols are being studied by researchers of San Diego State University (SDSU); animal monitoring protocols are being drafted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the latter of which is also researching specific monitoring protocols for sensitive plants. In lieu of the availability of preserve-specific monitoring protocols, monitoring methods for the 2009 surveys either used established protocols or draft regional MSCP monitoring protocols adapted for preserve-level monitoring. The following monitoring surveys were performed in 2009: vegetation communities mapping, general wildlife, habitat monitoring, herpetological pitfall array, and wildlife corridor/movement surveys. The Preserve consists mainly of non-native grassland habitats in the center of the Preserve, which were historically influenced by grazing. Chaparral habitats are also well represented and seem to be recovering from the effects of the 2003 Cedar Fire, although vegetation community transitions and chaparral ecotones are unusually frequent on the Preserve. However, coastal sage scrub, which has historically covered large portions on the site, seems to be receding, possibly due to the effects of several wildfires that have burned the site. Results from habitat monitoring surveys suggest that type conversion from scrub habitats to non-native grasslands seem to be occurring, most likely as a result of the 2003 Cedar Fire. In addition, the Preserve's oak woodlands were also significantly affected by t

The Harbison's dun skipper (Euphyes vestris harbisoni) is a rare subspecies with a restricted distribution, known only from San Diego County and southern Orange County. Larvae are host-specialists, feeding only on the San Diego sedge (Carex spissa) that is often associated with riparian oak woodlands. Entomologists have expressed concern that the Harbison's dun skipper may be threatened due to habitat loss and degradation. The skipper was once considered a Category 2 species by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and petitioned to be listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Currently, it is a covered species in some HCP/NCCP plans in San Diego County. Little is known about this skipper, as the few papers written are limited to describing the general life history and providing a vague distribution. This project is the first phase of a planned comprehensive monitoring program for the Harbison's dun skipper, designed to assist in the development of effective management and conservation practices. We focused on describing the distribution of the skipper, estimating population status and trend, describing habitat requirements of the larvae and adults, and identifying potential threats to the long-term persistence of the species as well as recommendations for monitoring and management. Using herbarium records, information from biologists, and historical Harbison's dun skipper locations, we were able to find San Diego sedge at 38 general locations, primarily on conserved lands. All sedge plants were found in or immediately adjacent to a riparian oak woodland except two small patches. However, both of these locations also had oak woodlands with San Diego sedge present. In many cases, oak woodlands were patchily distributed along a creek and the sedge was only found in those woodlands. We did not find San Diego sedge in or along pools of still/standing water, only in areas with moving water or a dry ravine. We were able to identify 26 historic Harbison's dun skipper localities from museum specimens, peer-reviewed literature, technical reports, and notes from local biologists. Most often, these locality data provided a general description rather than a specific point. Therefore, it can be difficult to know if we were revisiting the same location. Of the 34 locations with San Diego sedge that we surveyed for the skipper, 18 (53%) were occupied which is well below the occupancy rate described by Brown (1982). [consult report for rest of Exec. Summary]

The Harbison’s dun skipper (Euphyes vestris harbisoni) has a very restricted distribution in southern California and northern Mexico and entomologists have expressed concern that threats will lead to the extirpation of populations. The larvae of this skipper feed only on San Diego sedge (Carex spissa) and are generally associated with riparian oak woodlands. In 2023, surveys for Harbison’s dun skipper adults were conducted to collect non-lethal genetic samples for a landscape genetics project as well as further update the status of populations in San Diego County. Surveys started in a relatively small geographic area where skippers were observed in past years, but expanded to surrounding areas if skippers were not detected. A total of 9 males and 3 females were counted, with adults detected at 5 of 16 sites. Non-lethal genetic samples were collected from all individuals except one male.

The purpose of this Biological Diversity Baseline Report for the Lawrence and Barbara Daley Preserve is to provide the County of San Diego with information on existing biological conditions to assist in the development of Area Specific Management Directives. The approximately 597-acre1 Preserve is located in the south central portion of San Diego County, in the community of Dulzura, north and east of Highway 94 and south of Honey Springs Road. Technology Associates International Corporation (Technology Associates) assisted by the San Diego Natural History Museum, conducted baseline biological surveys at the Preserve on behalf of the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation. Baseline surveys were conducted in the winter, spring, and summer of 2009-2010. Biologists conducted the following surveys to assess the current status of biological resources onsite: (1) mapping of vegetation communities, (2) a floral inventory including rare plant surveys, (3) butterfly inventory surveys, (4) pitfall trapping for amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals, (5) arroyo toad surveys, (6) aquatic herpetofauna surveys, (7) diurnal avian point count surveys, (8) nocturnal avian surveys, (9) acoustic bat surveys, (10) small mammal trapping, and (11) track and camera station surveys for medium and large mammals. Due to the 2007 Harris fire that burned all of the Preserve, results of these surveys may under-represent the diversity of plant and wildlife species that occupy the Preserve. Ten vegetation communities were mapped within the Preserve and consist of Diegan coastal sage scrub, coastal sage-chaparral scrub, southern mixed chaparral, native grassland, non-native grassland, southern riparian woodland, coast live oak woodland, eucalyptus woodland, disturbed habitat, and urban/developed habitat. The most abundant vegetation community on the Preserve is Diegan coastal sage scrub, which makes up approximately 417.20 acres or 70% of the total area. Floristic surveys documented 355 plant taxa occurring on site. These include both native and non-native species along with eleven sensitive (California Native Plant Society List 1-4) plant species, including: desert fragrance (Ambrosia monogyra), San Diego needlegrass (Achnatherum diegoensis), Palmer's sagewort (Artemisia palmeri), San Diego sunflower (Bahiopsis [Viguiera] laciniata), delicate clarkia (Clarkia delicata), Palmer's goldenbush (Ericameria palmeri var. palmeri), chocolate lil

The Simon Preserve (Preserve) consists of approximately 617 acres in unincorporated San Diego County. Dudek biologists performed the following baseline biological surveys from spring through fall 2009: vegetation mapping, focused botanical surveys, exotic species mapping, general butterfly surveys, herpetological pitfall trap surveys, avian point count surveys, bat surveys, small mammal trapping, and large and medium mammal surveys. This report documents the methods and results of these surveys, and provides various management recommendations to preserve and enhance the function of the Preserve as biological open space in the context of the regional conservation goals of the draft North County Multiple Species Conservation Plan (North County MSCP). The County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) proposes to manage the Preserve in accordance with a Resource Management Plan (RMP) including Area-Specific Management Directives (ASMDs) that will be prepared based upon the baseline biological survey information established in this report. Based on species composition and general physiognomy, a total of 15 native or naturalized plant communities, including disturbed forms and mixed vegetation types, were identified on site: Diegan coastal sage scrub, disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub, chamise chaparral, coastal sage scrub-southern mixed chaparral, disturbed coastal sage scrub-southern mixed chaparral, southern mixed chaparral, non-native grassland, southern coast live oak riparian woodland, southern cottonwood-willow riparian forest, southern riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, arrowweed scrub, coast live oak woodland, open Engelmann oak woodland, and eucalyptus woodland. In addition, disturbed habitat, developed land, and orchard land covers were identified. A total of 203 vascular plant species were recorded on the Preserve during surveys. Four specialstatus plant species were observed, of which three are covered under the North County MSCP, and one, San Diego thorn-mint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia), is federally and state listed. A total of 93 wildlife species were observed or detected on the Preserve during surveys, including 8 reptiles, 52 birds, 16 mammals, and 17 invertebrates. Seventeen special-status wildlife species were observed or detected on the Preserve, including five species covered under the North County MSCP.

Baseline surveys were conducted in the winter, spring, and summer of 2008. Biologists conducted the following surveys to assess the current status of biological resources onsite: (1) mapping of vegetation communities, (2) a floral inventory including rare plant surveys, (3) checklist butterfly surveys, (4) pitfall trapping to sample amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals, (5) focused arroyo toad surveys, (6) aquatic herpetofauna surveys, (7) diurnal avian point count surveys, (8) nocturnal avian surveys, (9) acoustic sampling and roost and foraging surveys for bats, (10) small mammal trapping using live Sherman traps, and (11) track and camera station surveys for medium and large mammals. Due to a series of drought years and recent wildfires that have burned much of the Preserve, results of these surveys may under-represent the diversity of plant and wildlife species that occupy the Preserve. Nine vegetation communities were mapped within the Preserve and consist of southern coast live oak riparian forest, Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, mafic southern mixed chaparral, non-native grassland, coast live oak woodland, eucalyptus woodland, disturbed habitat, and urban/developed. The most abundant vegetation community on the Preserve is southern mixed chaparral. Floristic surveys documented 337 plant taxa occurring in the nine vegetation communities. These include both native and non-native species along with seven sensitive plant species: Brewer?s calandrinia, Humboldt?s lily, Cleveland?s bush monkey flower, felt-leaved monardella, Fish?s milkwort, Robinson?s pepper-grass, and Engelmann oak. A total of 150 animal species were documented from the Preserve during the 2008 baseline surveys. These include 16 species of butterflies, three species of amphibians, 16 species of reptiles, 78 species of birds, and 37 species of mammals. No federally or state listed species were detected; however, 13 non-listed sensitive species were detected during baseline surveys.

Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are a large ungulate native to Eurasia and North Africa which are now widely distributed as non-indigenous species in many areas, including California. Because of their adaptability to new environments, reproductive capabilities and foraging behaviors, wild pigs cause numerous damages to natural areas and wildlife throughout the state. To assess these damages we developed and distributed a survey to managers of all identifiable natural areas in California. Our objective was to identify ecological and monetary costs associated with managing natural areas within the current range of wild pigs. Surveys were mailed to 333 representatives of natural areas across California between mid December 2006 and early January 2007, and by July 2007 we had received information on 573 individual natural areas. Survey results indicated that wild pigs were present at 137 natural area units. Managers of most of these natural areas reported moderate to high concern regarding presence of wild pigs related to rooting and other disturbances in grassland, oak woodland areas and riparian habitats. Many visitors to natural areas with wild pigs commented to managers on rooting damage and negative interactions with wild pigs while hiking or camping, while others asked about hunting access. Some adjacent landowners wanted managers of natural areas with wild pigs to reduce pig numbers, whereas other nearby landowners were less bothered and likely benefited by enhanced hunting on their properties. A significant subset of the 137 natural areas with wild pigs reported using some combination of lethal and non-lethal methods to reduce damages from wild pigs. A key trend identified from the survey was that increased numbers of natural areas developed management programs to reduce wild pig damages in recent years compared to in the past. The overall minimum economic costs to all natural area management entities that reported wild pig-related management costs were $11,300,132 over the last 3 years and $18,672,023 overall. However, this was a conservative estimate because the majority of expenditures were associated with exclusion or removal of wild pigs, and not representative of damages incurred to the natural resources themselves. There is a need for reliable methods of assigning monetarily value to undisturbed natural areas and native plants and animals to provide a consistent economic presentation of actual resource damage caused by wild pigs. Non-lethal control metho

Dudek conducted a baseline biodiversity study of the Escondido Creek Preserve (Preserve) to provide the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) with current baseline biological data and information needed to develop a Resource Management Plan (RMP), including Area-Specific Management Directives (ASMDs), for the Preserve. The Preserve is located in the Elfin Forest community of unincorporated San Diego County and is owned and managed by DPR. This report documents the methods and results of this study, and provides various management recommendations for AMSDs to preserve and enhance the function of the Preserve as biological open space in the context of the conservation goals and guidelines of the Draft North County Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) Plan. Dudek biologists performed the following baseline biological surveys on the Preserve from summer 2010 through spring 2011: vegetation mapping, focused botanical surveys, exotic species mapping, general butterfly surveys, herpetological pitfall trap surveys, avian point count surveys, bat surveys, small mammal trapping, and large and medium mammal surveys. Thirteen vegetation communities and land cover types were identified on site including: Diegan coastal sage scrub, eucalyptus woodland, non-native grassland, southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern mixed chaparral, southern willow scrub, coast live oak woodland, southern riparian woodland, valley needlegrass grassland, non-native vegetation, disturbed habitat, developed land, and orchard. A total of 184 plant species were recorded on the Preserve during the surveys. Six special-status plant species were observed, of which two are North County MSCP-covered species. A total of 145 wildlife species were observed or detected on the Preserve during the surveys, including 4 amphibians, 12 reptiles, 83 birds, 31 mammals, and 15 butterflies. Twenty-nine special-status wildlife species were observed or detected on the Preserve, including nine North County MSCP covered species.

Prioritization of communities for monitoring was based on the following criteria: representativeness, extent, fragmentation, endangerment and threats. Aggregated communities that received high priority rankings based on several criteria include CSS and meadows & freshwater wetlands. Communities with high endangerment or threats should also receive high priority and include: Southern foredunes, Southern coastal salt marsh, Southern coastal bluff scrub, Maritime succulent scrub, Diegan coastal sage scrub, Southern maritime chaparral, Valley needlegrass grassland, Cismontane alkali marsh, Southern arroyo willow riparian forest, Southern willow scrub, Engelmann oak woodland, Torrey Pine forest, and Tecate Cypress forest. This report will: describe the current state of the MSCP Preserve, discuss natural community assemblages and alternative vegetation community classifications for the MSCP, describe the use of landscape stratification based on environmental variables as an alternative to vegetation classification, discuss the grouping of communities for the monitoring program, and prioritize natural communities for monitoring protocol development.

Introduction In an effort to both protect nesting Southwestern Willow Flycatchers as well as mitigate for potential indirect impacts from off-site grazing on Forest Service lands, the U.S. Forest Service has funded a yeai-ly Brown-headed Cowbird trapping program along the upper San Luis Rey River since 1992. The purpose of this trapping program is to reduce the threat and impact of brood parasitism to the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidona:x trailli extimus). The Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) is an obligate brood parasite which lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species and is dependent upon the host to incubate their eggs and rear their young. Averaging 6"-7" in length, the Brown-headed Cowbird is a medium sized songbird with sexually dimorphic plumage. Adult males are dark brown to gloss black with a brown head and neck. Females are slightly smaller than males and dull tan to light brown with indistinct streaking on the breast. Originally restricted to the midwest region of North America, the Brown-headed Cowbird expanded in both range and abundance following the settlement and alteration of natural habitats, particularly with the increase in agriculture and livestock production. Reaching California in the late 1800's, this species was first documented breeding in San Diego County in 1915 (Unit 1984), and had become well established within southern California by the 1930's (Rothstein 1994, Willett 1933). Songbird species or populations which had not evolved with the cowbird and have no experience with parasitism may be subject to significantly reduced reproductive success. Brood parasitism combined with other impacts, such as habitat loss and fragmentation can lead to declines in songbird species, especially those with an already limited population and distribution. Cowbird trapping has proven to be an effective method in the conservation efforts of sensitive- . songbird populations throughout the United States, and was initially utilized in the recovery efforts of the Kirtland's Warbler in Michigan (Mayfield 1977). Subsequently, cowbird trapping has become an important tool in the management of several other sensitive songbird species, including the Black-capped Vireo, Least Bell's Vireo, and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher.