Photo Credit: Carlton Rochester, USGS
Photo Credit: Robert Fisher, USGS
Goal: The fire management goal for the MSPA is to maintain the long-term ecological integrity and viability of ecosystems, MSP species, and vegetation communities on Conserved Lands in a cost effective manner by managing the current human altered fire regime to promote a fire regime, with lower fire frequency and reduced impacts (direct and indirect) to natural resources.
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Starting in 2019, prepare a Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan detailing measures to reduce wildfire threat to Conserved Lands and at-risk resources in the MSPA. The plan should include: a review of wildfire ignitions and methods for reducing risk; analyses and spatially explicit recommendations for decreasing ignitions along roadways; recommended Project Activity Levels (PAL) for land managers to minimize ignitions from power equipment; analyses of ignition "hotspots" and ignition probabilities relative to at-risk resources with specific management actions to reduce risks; and specifications for establishing a "Fire Watch Program" to reduce ignitions and improve early fire suppression.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Use USGS fire risk analyses, expert and stakeholder input, and information on ignition risk reduction methods to develop a prioritized action plan for wildfire ignition reduction to protect MSP species and vegetation communities most vulnerable to catastrophic wildfire. | available for implementation | |
| PRP-2 | Submit project data and Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan to MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Completed Fire Ignition Reduction Plan for the MSPA by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Implement priority actions identified in the Fire Ignition Reduction Plan to reduce catastrophic wildfire ignitions on Conserved Lands in the MSPA.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement Fire Ignition Reduction Plan recommendations, including road hardening and measures to reduce risk at ignition "hotspots" and priority locations with at-risk resources. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Work with local Fire Safe Council(s) to establish a volunteer "Fire Watch Program" to assist in wildfire prevention during red flag events. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-3 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Reduction in the 3-5% of ignitions in the MSPA during 2020-2021 that are responsible for extreme wildfire events | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2017, with the help of a wildfire coordinator, prepare a regional Resource Avoidance Area map (RAA Map) that identifies MSP species/vegetation communities and other at-risk resources to be avoided on Conserved Lands by fire suppression activities, such as equipment staging, dozer line construction, retardant drops,and overland travel. The coordinator should work with Preserve owner managers and their responding (local, state and federal) fire agencies to develop the regional RAA Map in a compatible format with fire agencies' Wildland Fire Decision Support Systems.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RSUP-1 | The wildfire coordinator should work with land managers to prepare brief handouts for each preserve that accompany the Resource Avoidance Areas map and provide guidance to fire crews about what type of fire suppression actions are to be avoided in specific areas and the preferred sites for staging areas. | Available for implementation | Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS) |
| RSUP-2 | Submit project metadata, datasets and RAA Map to MSP Web Portal. | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Completed RAA Map for Region by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Starting in 2019, coordinate and integrate MSP Resource Avoidance Areas (RAA) Map into local state and federal management agencies GIS Wildland Fire Decision Support Systems.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | The wildfire coordinator should work with local, state and federal fire management agencies to incorporate the MSP RAA Map into their Wildland Fire Decision Support Systems platform(s). The map should be in a compatible format with standardized symbology and mapping criteria used by the fire management agencies. | waiting for precedent action | Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS) |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, MSP RAA Map in 75% of GIS wildland fire decision support systems for local, state and federal firefighting agencies | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2019, conduct an inventory of preserve fire management plans and identify elements to include in standardized preserve fire management plans. Prepare a guidebook for preserve fire management plans that, at a minimum, specifies overall pre-fire, fire suppression and post-fire management actions and includes the RAAM that identifies MSP species/habitats and other at-risk resources to be avoided by fire suppression activities, such as equipment staging, dozer line construction, retardant drops,and overland travel. The guidebook should identify standard pre-fire, fire suppression, and post-fire actions for specific MSP species and vegetation communities to be incorporated into Preserve Fire Management Plans.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Create an inventory of fire management plans completed for preserves in the MSPA, identify preserves without plans. | On hold | |
| PRP-2 | The guidebook should be developed collaboratively with input from land owners and managers, fire management agencies, scientists, and other stakeholders. Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of existing fire management plans to inform guidebook recommendations. | On hold | |
| PRP-3 | Submit project metadata, inventory and guidebook to MSP web portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Completed inventory and preserve fire management plan guidebook by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, coordinate and establish a Wildland Fire Resource Advisor Program (WFRAP) for locally owned (non-federal and non-state) Conserved Lands to integrate local Resource Advisors (RAs) with federal and state agencies and provide unified guidance on avoidance/protective measures for MSP and other rare species and communities to Incident Command personnel during fire events.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RSUP-1 | Using the federal model as a guide, the regional wildfire coordinator should work with land managers and fire agencies to develop a WFRAP specific to MSP locally-owned lands and train land managers to be RAs. Procedures should be established for local RAs to work with federal and state advisors to communicate a unified message to Incident Command personnel during fire events. | Available for implementation | Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS) |
| RSUP-2 | RAs should be encouraged to participate in fire safety organizations, such as the California Wildland Fire Coordinating Group to foster coordination and learn from the experiences and expertise of fire management personnel. | Available for implementation | Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS) |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Establish WFRAP by 2021 for all locally-owned lands with trained RAs | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2017 and 2018, identify MSP rare plant and animal species occurrences at high risk of impacts from fire, including MSP species that do not have species-specific fire recommendations to reduce threat risk prior to fire events and during fire suppression activities.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Based on IMG information and other monitoring data, prepare a map of MSP rare plant and animal occurrences at risk of post-fire invasion by non-native plants. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-2 | For at-risk MSP rare plant and animal species where invasive plants pose a post-fire threat: periodically document invasive plant issues for each occurrence; identify invasive plants of concern and why they might become a risk with fire (carry fire, competition, etc); prioritize occurrences most at risk; and develop recommendations for pre-fire management actions for at-risk occurrences. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-3 | Identify other fire threats from fire, such as local population extirpation from direct fire impacts, and identify fire management actions to reduce threats, such as targeted fuel management. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-4 | Submit project metadata, datasets and management recommendations to MSP Web Portal | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, complete mapping and identification of post-fire threats to MSP plant and animal occurrences and recommended management. | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2019, implement highest priority proactive management actions identified through monitoring (Objective FSP-8) to reduce risk of fire for most at-risk MSP rare plant and animal occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement invasive plant control and to reduce risk of post-fire non-native plant invasion at high priority MSP rare plant and animal occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | Fairbanks Ranch/Rancho Santa Fe Invasive Removal and Stream Enhancement |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and datasets to MSP Web Portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Pre-fire management implemented for =2 very high priority MSP species occurrences by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Implement WFRAP for local (non-federal/non-state) lands and work with federal and state RAs to provided unified guidance on avoidance/ protective measures for MSP species and communities to Incident Command personnel during fire events.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement the WFRAP specific to MSP locally-owned preserves with trained RAs integrated into fire incident management teams to provide simple, unified message to IC concerning protection of natural resources. Wildfire coordinator will be available as a resource to assist in communicating regional MSP priorities among land managers. | On hold | Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS) |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| WFRAP implemented during fires on locally-owned lands from 2019-2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Monitor recovery of at-risk MSP species and vegetation communities against the threat of invasive plants the first 3 years following a fire event as identified in post-fire plant and wildlife surveys.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Conduct post fire surveys for invasive plants (Levels 1-4) at MSP plant and animal occurrences and vegetation communities starting the first spring following fire and as needed thereafter to identify priority areas for invasive plant control | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, datasets and postfire management recommendations to MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Invasive plant surveys conducted 1-3 year after wildfire with management recommendations submitted | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Implement invasive plant control at burned priority sites identified during pre- and post-fire surveys to prevent expansion of invasive plants at priority MSP plant and animal occurrences and vegetation communities.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Conduct invasive plant control at priority sites with threats from non-native plants for 2-3 years post-fire or until invasive plants are controlled. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Post-fire invasive plant control prevents expansion of nonnative plants at priority plant and animal occurrences and vegetation communities | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Conduct focused surveys for at-risk MSP plant and animal species for 1-3 years following wildfires and determine their distribution and status. Identify unburned (occupied or unoccupied) refugia within and adjacent to the fire perimeter.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data and reports to MSP Web Portal | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Fire impacts and refugia documented for prioritized at-risk MSP plant and animal species following significant fires in 2017-2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
Starting in 2017, reduce the potential impact of fire for at risk large populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) by reducing fuel loads of invasive annuals
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Manage thatch and invasive annuals every 3-5 years to reduce fire threat for populations of San Diego thornmint most at risk of fire (populations with ignition probability or fire frequency > 3 or that have burned since 2003) | available for implementation | Test project on production server, created by DAM 4/3/19 |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and report with management actions to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action | Test project on production server, created by DAM 4/3/19 |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Fuel Loads and Invasive Grasses Reduced for at Risk Populations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, occurrence status, habitat and threats data, and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Annually with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities as needed, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | San Diego Thornmint Restoration |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal. | available for implementation | San Diego Thornmint Restoration |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2017, continue refining BMPs developed for San Diego thornmint (CBI 2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal studies at Mission Trails and South Crest) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer zones).
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Refine BMPs prepared by CBI in the San Diego Thornmint Adaptive Management Framework (2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal and South County Grasslands projects) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer) | In progress | |
| DEV-2 | Submit project metadata, management datasets and BMP report to MSP web portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| BMPs for San Diego Thornmint Prepared by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Diego thornmint section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to San Diego thornmint occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence size, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for San Diego thornmint that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019 Completed Section for San Diego Thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2019, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, =2 High Priority Management Actions Implemented for San Diego Thornmint from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2019, begin monitoring the effectiveness of implementation of the highest priority management actions identified in the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-2 | Prepare a seed collection plan to collect seeds over multiple years, collect seeds several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines from small occurrences (<1,000 plants) and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest and based on genetic studies as available. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2019, begin implementing the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for San Diego thornmint to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, =2 Highest Priority Actions Implemented for San Diego thornmint from the MSP Seed Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6
In 2017, continue field research into soils and habitat relationships and development of habitat suitability and climate change models for San Diego thornmint and other edaphic endemic plants to better understand habitat requirements and to identify and prioritize geographic areas important for connectivity, restoration, and range shifts due to climate change and other threats.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Test soils at potential expansion sites and compare to occupied reference sites to determine site suitability based on soils. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-2 | Prepare habitat suitability models under current environmental conditions and for different scenarios of climate change to delineate potential future habitat. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-3 | Collect covariate data on vegetation composition and cover (alliance and association-level mapping), soils, invasive plants and other threats for selected populations. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-4 | Prioritize locations for conservation, management, and future surveys based on predicted distributions and environmental correlates. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-5 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data and report to MSP web portal. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Refined Models and Prioritized Future Survey Locations for San Diego Thornmint by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Annually inspect known areas occupied by arroyo toad to identify and reduce threats that can be managed at the local scale including road crossings, illegal encroachment, off-road vehicle use, non-native plants, trash dumping, grazing by livestock, and incompatible human recreation. Where possible, restrict access to arroyo toad upland and breeding habitats to help prevent disturbance to all arroyo toad life history stages (eggs, larvae, metamorphs and adults). Activities should be restricted in upland habitat year-round and in breeding habitat during the core of the breeding season (March to July).
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Using a regional "IMG" monitoring protocol, annually inspect significant Arroyo toad occurrences to assess status and quantify potential threats to determine management needs. AID_20161229_1831_100 | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Roads should be examined for high risk areas for arroyo toad crossing and use. Only slow moving vehicles (<5mph) with an occupant experienced in arroyo toad identification should be allowed on high risk roads after sunset (Zimmitti and Mahrdt 1999). | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-3 | An education program should be implemented that promotes the value of the arroyo toad and informs the public of restrictions and the importance of not disturbing the wildlife. | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-4 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-5 | Submit monitoring and management recommendations to the MSP web portal | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Annual IMG monitoring of Arroyo toad completed | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, conduct routine management actions for arroyo toad identified through the IMG regional protocol monitoring, including protecting populations from detrimental human use (e.g. ORV, trampling, altered hydrology), removing invasive plants, and removing aquatic predators and exotic species (which compete and/or prey on arroyo toads, primarily young) within the known arroyo toad habitat.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from human disturbance, controlling invasive plants, and removing invasive aquatic animals. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2020 and 2021 (assuming adequate rainfall levels), conduct comprehensive arroyo toad surveys using USGS survey protocols throughout the MSPA on Conserved Lands in known occupied and potential habitat to determine current distribution and status of arroyo toad, collect data on threats and habitat covariates, and identify management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | Survey known occupied and potantial habitat on Conserved Lands across the MSPA to determine the distribution and abundance of arroyo toad on Conserved Lands. | Available for implementation | |
| SURV-2 | Collect data on threats and identify management needs to support self-sustaining occurrences. | Available for implementation | |
| SURV-3 | Continue to collect genetic samples from all arroyo toads captured. | Available for implementation | |
| SURV-4 | Submit survey data and management recommendations to MSP web portal | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive surveys completed for Arroyo toad by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2017, continue to convene with the working group of land managers, scientists, wildlife agencies, and local biologists knowledgeable in arroyo toad to review existing conditions of known occurrences on Conserved Lands, to prepare a plan for management of arroyo toad which considers each site, and to develop a regional monitoring strategy.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Convene working group meetings to review existing conditions of known occurrences. | in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Use habitat models developed by USGS and results from survey and genetic analyses to identify suitable areas for long-term management. | in progress | |
| PRP-3 | Conduct site visits as necessary to identify appropriate management actions. | in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an arroyo toad management plan. The plan should prioritize management actions for the next five years and detail tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, timelines, and budgets. | in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Submit management plan to MSP web portal | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Arroyo toad management plan completed by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, implement high priority actions identified in the Arroyo Toad Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management actions and report to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| High priority management actions implemented for Arroyo toad | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, monitor the effectiveness of management actions implemented for the arroyo toad.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data and reports to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of implementing high priority arroyo toad management actions determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, establish program and permits to allow emergency management actions for the arroyo toad during or immediately following wildfire events, such as implementation of emergency rescue and temporary translocation, to protect from potential loss or extirpation.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Develop protocols, monitoring standards, and permit process for the rescue of Southwestern pond turtles during wildfire events. | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Wildfire rescue program established for Arroyo toad in 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2019, implement arroyo toad rescue program during wildfire events to protect from loss and/or extirpation.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit management data and reports to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Wildfire rescue program implemented for Arroyo toad | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
Beginning in 2019, monitor the effectiveness of arroyo toad rescue programs following wildfire events, including both translocation or re-introduction efforts.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit monitoring data and report to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Monitoring of post fire rescue programs for Arroyo toad implemented | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
From 2017 to 2021, implement post fire management actions to ensure the recovery of arroyo toad at occupied sites following wildfire events, including invasive plant and animal control, debris/sediment removal, erosion control or other management actions as needed following a fire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement needed management actions as determined through BAER or other post fire surveys. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Post fire management actions implemented following wildfire events | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
From 2017 to 2021, monitor stream conditions and the effectiveness of management actions implemented to assist in recovery of arroyo toad for 3 years following wildfire events.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Monitor stream flows and water quality post fire, document recovery of arroyo toad populations and habitat, and effectiveness of any management actions for first 3 years after fire. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Monitoring of post fire management actions, stream conditions, and population status for arroyo toads implemented for 3 years post fire | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
From 2017 to 2019, continue the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study, begun in 2014, to monitor golden eagle territory occupancy and reproduction in the MSPA (see occurrence table) and to track eagle movements to identify important foraging, nesting and roosting areas. Continue to study the influence of human activity and land use on patterns of eagle movement and habitat use, measure the response of eagles to human activity while foraging, and determine whether locally produced floaters recruit into the breeding population.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Monitor territory occupancy and reproduction in suitable golden eagle habitat within the MSPA. Identify any threats or disturbance to eagles and provide this information to land managers so that management actions can be taken to reduce impacts from human disturbance and other threats. | in progress | |
| RES-2 | Capture adult eagles at selected territories and attach GPS-transmitters that track eagle movements to identify important foraging areas and to study movement patterns relative to human activity within a landscape matrix of urban, rural, and undeveloped lands. Determine whether eagles switch territories and mates, document individual mortality, and track emigration or short term movements outside of the MSPA. Determine if there are multiple nesting sites within a territory and identify nest sites that are unstable or vulnerable to loss. | in progress | Biotelemetry Data for Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) Captured in Coastal Southern California |
| RES-3 | Analyze golden eagle foraging habitat data and develop objectives with criteria for managing open areas (grasslands and suitable areas in coastal sage scrub and chaparral) to conditions preferred by foraging eagles and that support abundant prey (e.g., black-tailed jack rabbits, ground squirrels). | unknown | |
| RES-4 | Measure eagle behavioral responses to human activity at foraging areas. Identify the intensity and type of human activity that affects foraging behavior. | in progress | Biotelemetry Data for Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) Captured in Coastal Southern California |
| RES-5 | Use the GPS and behavioral response data to model potential impacts to foraging eagles under different scenarios of human disturbance at important foraging areas. Prepare management recommendations to reduce human impacts on foraging eagles, including alignment of trails, restriction of activities, and educational outreach. | in progress | Biotelemetry Data for Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) Captured in Coastal Southern California |
| RES-6 | Submit project metadata, datasets, and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress | Biotelemetry Data for Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) Captured in Coastal Southern California |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study Report with Management Recommendations Completed by 2020 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Pesticides | |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2021, use the results and recommendations from the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study and the Golden Eagle Genetics Study to develop a comprehensive Golden Eagle Management Plan for managing golden eagle territories with nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat on Conserved Lands within the MSPA (see occurrence table). The plan should include recommendations for managing important foraging habitat to minimize human disturbance to foraging eagles and to improve habitat quality to enhance prey availability, especially during drought periods. The plan should also include specifications to control human disturbance that could discourage nesting, cause nest abandonment, or adversely affect the survival of nestlings, and for managing unstable nest ledges or tree nest sites that are critical to maintaining a breeding pair in territories with limited nesting sites.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Prepare a five year plan for maintaining and enhancing golden eagle foraging habitat in grasslands and suitable areas in open coastal sage scrub and chaparral, and for reducing human impacts to foraging eagles. Use the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study and modeling results to identify important foraging areas for golden eagles on Conserved Lands in the MSPA. Specify management to reduce human disturbance in important foraging habitat and to manage invasive annual grasses to promote abundant prey, such as California ground squirrels and black-tailed jackrabbit. Include a mechanism for updating the management plan with monitoring results and specific management recommendations from the Comprehensive Golden Eagle Monitoring Plan. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Prioritize for management, those nest ledges and trees that are in territories where alternative nest sites are limited. Prepare a nest restoration plan for each prioritized unstable nest ledge or vulnerable nest tree in consultation with a qualified golden eagle biologist. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | Establish procedures for managing human activities within the nest site protective zone, including rerouting trails, closing trails during the breeding season, educational outreach, and enforcement. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-4 | Submit project metadata and Comprehensive Golden Eagle Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Golden Eagle Management Plan Completed by 2022 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Pesticides | |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2021, use the results and recommendations from the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study and the Golden Eagle Genetics Study to develop a comprehensive Golden Eagle Monitoring Plan for monitoring golden eagle status and assessing nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat on Conserved Lands within the MSPA (see occurrence table). The plan should include standardized monitoring protocols to track the status of eagles at nesting territories, to monitor use of important foraging areas, and to collect habitat and threats covariate data to inform needed management actions.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Complete a plan to monitor the status and habitat use of eagles over the long term within the MSPA that is based upon the occupancy monitoring study in the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging and Habitat Use Study. The plan should include detailed monitoring objectives, statistically valid sampling design, sampling locations, monitoring timeline, and standardized monitoring protocols to record eagles and important habitat and threat attributes. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a plan to rapidly assess the condition of important golden eagle foraging habitat on Conserved Lands across the MSPA using a standardized protocol, statistically valid sampling design, and designated sampling locations. The protocol should describe monitoring methods to collect specific habitat and threat covariates associated with habitat quality, as identified by the Golden Eagle Nesting, Foraging, and Habitat Use Study. The results of this monitoring will be used to periodically prioritize sites and develop specific recommendations for managing foraging habitat to minimize human disturbance and enhance habitat quality to support abundant eagle prey. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | A golden eagle expert should prepare a protocol, standardized data sheets, and provide periodic training to land managers in how to safely conduct annual nest inspections and determine management needs with minimal disturbance to eagles. The protocol should assess nest sites during the non-breeding season to identify nest ledges that are unstable and nest trees that are vulnerable to loss from threats such as wildfire, pests, and fungal pathogens. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-4 | Submit project metadata, sampling design, sampling locations, protocols and Comprehensive Golden Eagle Monitoring Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Golden Eagle Monitoring Plan Completed by 2022 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6
Beginning in 2017, inspect Encinitas baccharis occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs. After 2017, repeat monitoring every 2 years.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Every 2 Years with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at Encinitas baccharis occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6
In 2018, begin preparing a section for Encinitas baccharis in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009; KEW 2016) and provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Encinitas baccharis section in the MSP Species Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | Wed Demo |
| PRP-2 | Design the seed collection plan to incorporate genetic study results and with recommendations to collect seeds over multiple years and several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Encinitas Baccharis Section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 7
In 2019, begin implementing the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for Encinitas baccharis to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =1 Highest Priority Action Implemented for Encinitas Baccharis from the MSP Seed Collection, Banking, and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 5, 8
Begin preparing a section for Encinitas baccharis in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Encinitas baccharis section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to Encinitas baccharis occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence size, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for Encinitas Baccharis that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Encinitas Baccharis Section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 7
Beginning in 2019, implement highest priority management actions identified in the Encinitas baccharis section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Encinitas Baccharis from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 7
Beginning in 2019, monitor effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the Encinitas baccharis section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 5, 8
Determine the population dynamics of Encinitas baccharis in response to natural and altered fire frequencies that may affect successional processes and population dynamics. The study should begin when the next fire burns an Encinitas baccharis occurrence and include subsequently burned occurrences to research post-fire recovery mechanisms (e.g., resprouter vs. obligate seeder) and circumstances in which post-fire management is necessary to facilitate robust post-fire recovery. Use results to identify postfire management actions for Encinitas baccharis to assist in recovery of burned populations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Encinitas Baccharis Fire Study Completed and Report Submitted by 5 Years Post Fire | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3, 4, 6
Beginning in 2018, inspect extant San Diego goldenstar occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs. After 2018, repeat monitoring every 2 years, unless an occurrence is small (<100 individuals) or faces a high degree of threat, in which case monitor annually.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Every 2 Years with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions as identified through the IMG monitoring conducted in 2016, 2018, and 2020 at San Diego goldenstar occurrence(s) on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform as needed routine management activities, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through fencing and enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4
From 2017 through 2021, continue implementing high priority management actions to: expand coastal cactus wren populations; rehabilitate habitat destroyed in the 2003 Cedar and 2007 Harris wildfires; improve connectivity within and between the Otay and San Diego/El Cajon genetic clusters (see occurrence table); and manage high risk of anthropogenic predation of adults and nestlings. These priority management actions are identified in the South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan prepared in 2015.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Following best practices in the South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan, design cactus scrub enhancement and restoration projects to provide high quality nesting and foraging habitat with large patches of cacti >1 m tall in a mosaic of open scrub that provides sufficient food resources for reproduction and survival, especially during drought. As they become available, incoporate the results from the Cactus Wren Demography, Foraging and Arthropod Study to create restoration palettes that favor plant species associated with important arthropod food resources. Design planting layouts to maximize water availability by allocating a portion of the plantings to more mesic sites, such as ravines, at the bottom of slopes, and on northerly and easterly aspects. Control invasive nonnative plants to =20% absolute cover to reduce competition with native plants for water and light. | some occurrences are in progress | Otay River Valley Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration and Enhancement , Salt Creek Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Project |
| IMP-2 | Implement management actions, as needed, to reduce anthropogenic predation on wrens and their nests in fragmented habitats bordered by development where wrens are vulnerable to predation by cats, Cooper's hawks, corvids and other human-subsidized predators. Actions could include removing selected trees within or bordering cactus scrub that provide hunting, roosting, and nesting perches for hawks and corvids and avoiding cactus scrub restoration in areas where the terrain and location make wrens especially vulnerable to predation. Other measures could involve humanely removing feral cats from Conserved Lands and providing educational material and signage encouraging neighboring homeowners to keep their cats indoors so that wrens are protected and cats are safe from predation by wild animals, such as coyotes. | some occurrences are in progress | Otay River Valley Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration and Enhancement , Salt Creek Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Project |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =3 High Priority Management Actions Implemented from the 2015 South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4
From 2017-2021, collect data on the effectiveness of implementing high priority management actions from the 2015 South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan. In 2021, compile data from all restoration projects and determine the effectiveness of cumulative management actions for the combined Otay and San Diego/El Cajon genetic clusters (see occurrence table) in south San Diego County. These results will be used in 2022 to update management recommendations and success criteria for the South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Collect vegetation data to document success of cactus scrub restoration projects. This can include monitoring the height, diameter and survival of planted cactus and the composition and percent cover of native and nonnative shrubs, forbs and grasses. Document wren use of restored cactus scrub. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit restoration and enhancement project metadata, management datasets, and reports to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress | |
| IMP-3 | Conduct a meta-analysis of habitat restoration data and cactus wren population survey data to determine whether short-term success criteria have been achieved for habitat restoration actions and for wren populations in south San Diego County. Based upon these results, prepare recommendations for the 2022-2031 management strategy for coastal cactus wren. These broad recommendations can be used in 2022 to update the South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan with the next set of success criteria and specific, prioritized management actions. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-4 | Submit cactus wren habitat restoration and population meta-analysis datasets, results, and management strategy recommendations for south San Diego County to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Success Criteria 2013-2021: Restore =70 Acres of High Quality Cactus Scrub and Increase the Combined Otay and San Diego/El Cajon Genetic Clusters to =75 Territories on C | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6
From 2017 to 2021, use a standardized protocol to survey for cactus wrens to determine territory, pairing and banding status and collect habitat covariate data in cactus scrub habitats on Conserved Lands in the Otay and San Diego/El Cajon genetic clusters (see occurrence table). In 2018 and 2021, expand surveys to include the San Pasqual Valley/Lake Hodges genetic cluster.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | Conduct 2 rounds of protocol surveys each year for coastal cactus wrens in mapped cactus at long term monitoring sites and expand monitoring sites, as needed, to include restoration sites and newly conserved cactus scrub. Use standardized protocols to document the number of wrens observed, age, sex, pairing and nesting status, and color band combinations, and to assess habitat for shrub overgrowth and crowding, invasive plants, unhealthy or dead cactus, and dominant shrub and cactus species. Update cactus mapping at restored and newly conserved sites. | in progress | |
| SURV-2 | In conjunction with the Coastal Cactus Wren Demography, Vegetation and Arthropod Study, focus on collecting banding status data to better understand cactus wren population dynamics, adult and juvenile survival, and dispersal capabilities in south San Diego County. | unknown | |
| SURV-3 | Submit project metadata, cactus wren survey and habitat assessment datasets, analyses and survey reports to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Cactus Wren Surveys and Habitat Assessments Completed 2017-2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4
From 2017 to 2019, continue the Coastal Cactus Wren Demography, Vegetation and Arthropod Study begun in 2015 to investigate relationships between habitat quality and wren reproduction, dispersal and survival in the Otay and San Diego/El Cajon genetic clusters (see occurrence table). Habitat quality is measured at the territory scale and characterized by vegetation attributes, arthropod community composition, nestling diet, and potential availability of arthropod prey based on plant associations. Use the results to develop specific restoration recommendations to enhance habitat suitability and food resources important to cactus wren reproduction and survival.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Capture, uniquely color band, and monitor cactus wrens regularly during the breeding season to collect data on territory and breeding status, nesting phenology, nest fate, number of eggs/nestlings/fledglings per nest, and annual productivity, dispersal and survival. Measure habitat quality at each territory by characterizing the vegetation and by sampling arthropod communities associated with bare ground and 8 plant species common to cactus scrub. Determine nestling diets by collecting fecal samples during banding and using DNA barcoding methods to identify the arthropod taxa fed to nestlings. | in progress | |
| RES-2 | Identify arthropods important in the diet of nestling cactus wrens based on a DNA barcoding identification of arthropods in fecal samples obtained from the south San Diego County study, from the results of a similar study in Orange County, and from a literature search of adult and nestling cactus wren diets across their range. Evaluate the occurrence of arthropod taxa important to wren diets in association with 8 specific plant species and bare ground to determine those habitat attributes in cactus scrub that provide significant food resources for cactus wrens. Analyze wren reproductive parameters in relation to expected arthropod food availability based on the habitat attributes of each territory. Use the results to develop specific management recommendations for plant restoration palettes and for restoring the composition and cover of plants and bare ground that enhance food availablity for wrens. Determine how plants might be situated in the landscape to enhance arthropod food availability during droughts, such as planting a portion of plants in more mesic sites in ravines, at the bottom of slopes and on northerly and easterly aspects. | in progress | |
| RES-3 | Project metadata, datasets, analyses, and report with specific management recommendations will be submitted to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Coastal Cactus Wren Demography, Vegetation and Arthropod Study and Report with Management Recommendations Completed by 2020 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6
From 2017-2019, in conjunction with standardized surveys and with banding activities for the Coastal Cactus Wren Demography, Vegetation and Arthropod Study, collect feather or blood samples from nestling and adult cactus wren at sites where wrens were sampled in 2011-2012 for the Southern California Cactus Wren Genetics Study (Barr et al. 2013, 2015). Determine if genetic diversity and effective population size have changed in the Otay, San Diego/El Cajon, and San Pasqual genetic clusters (see occurrence table) and evaluate whether there are potential threats to long-term population sustainability from inbreeding. Based on these results, prepare specific recommendations for managing gene flow and/or population expansion to enhance genetic diversity and effective population size.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Collaborate with the Natural Community Coalition to repeat the 2012 Southern California Coastal Cactus Wren Genetics Study (Barr et al. 2013, 2015) for the Coastal Orange County-Camp Pendleton, San Diego/El Cajon, Otay, and San Pasqual genetic clusters. Evaluate whether the clusters with low effective population sizes and potential inbreeding have changed their levels of genetic diversity in the intervening 6 years with management to increase cactus scrub and improve connectivity, from translocating wrens between genetic clusters, or from population declines during a long and intense drought. | in progress | |
| RES-2 | Analyze genetic and reproduction data from Orange County and San Diego County studies to determine if reproduction may be adversely affected by inbreeding or low genetic diversity. If lack of genetic diversity and inbreeding show signs of depressing productivity, then evaluate and prioritize specific management recommendations to increase gene flow, such as switching eggs or translocating individuals between genetic clusters over the short term and restoring habitat to expand populations and improve connectivity within and between genetic clusters over the long term. | in progress | |
| RES-3 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses, and report with specific management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Genetic Study Completed and Report Submitted by 2020 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6
From 2017-2021, continue operation of the North San Diego County Cactus Nursery and support a South San Diego County Cactus Nursery to supply cactus to land managers to enhance, restore and create coastal cactus wren habitat. Grow cactus pads, segments and entire plants sufficient for restoration projects to expand and enhance cactus scrub habitat and as a source of plants for immediate habitat rehabilitation following severe wildfire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement BMPs when harvesting and growing cactus at a nursery in preparation for transplant into natural lands for cactus restoration projects and to provide an emergency source of cactus following wildfire. | some occurrences are in progress | North County Cactus Nursery and Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration (2015-2018) |
| IMP-2 | Grow and supply cactus pads, segments, and entire plants from locally harvested native cactus with a composition of species reflecting what naturally occurs in each geographic area. The North County Cactus Nursery should cactus to projects in MUs 6 and 8 and those areas in MU 4 dominated by prickly pear cactus. The South County Cactus Nursery should supply cactus to MUs 2 and 3 and to those areas in MU 4 dominated by coast cholla. The amount of cactus produced will be determined periodically based upon: management recommendations from the 2015 South San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan; from ICR's Restoration Analyses for the San Pasqual Valley and Lake Hodges; an evaluation of planned and ongoing cactus restoration projects; and an assessment of cactus needed to be kept in reserve for future post-fire rehabilitation efforts. | some occurrences are in progress | North County Cactus Nursery and Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration (2015-2018) |
| IMP-3 | Submit project metadata, nursery plans, and reports with information on harvesting, growing and distributing cactus for restoration projects to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress | North County Cactus Nursery and Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration (2015-2018) |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Cactus Nurseries Established in North and South San Diego County to Provide Sufficient Cactus for Restoration and PostFire Rehabilitation | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 5, 6
In 2017-2021, continue supporting restoration of cactus scrub based upon ICR's Restoration Analyses for the San Pasqual Valley/Lake Hodges coastal cactus wren genetic cluster (see occurrence table) to: rehabilitate cactus scrub destroyed or degraded by the 2007 Witch Fire; to expand occurrences, particularly adjacent to Lake Hodges; to improve connectivity within the genetic cluster; and as needed, to manage high risk of anthropogenic predation of adults and nestlings.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Following best practices, design cactus scrub enhancement and restoration projects to provide high quality nesting and foraging habitat with large patches of cacti >1 m tall in a mosaic of open scrub that provides sufficient food resources for reproduction and survival, especially during drought years when arthropod food resources are limiting. As they become available, incoporate the results from the Cactus Wren Demography, Foraging and Arthropod Study to create restoration palettes that favor plant species associated wtih important wren food resources. Design planting layouts to maximize water availability by allocating a portion of the plantings to more mesic sites, such as ravines, at the bottom of slopes, and on northerly and easterly aspects. Control invasive nonnative plants to =20% absolute cover to reduce competition with native plants for water and light. | in progress | Hodges Reservoir-Bernardo Bay Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Grant Project |
| IMP-2 | Implement management actions, as needed, to reduce anthropogenic predation on wrens and their nests in fragmented habitats bordered by development where wrens are vulnerable to predation by cats, Cooper's hawks, corvids and other human-subsidized predators. Actions could include removing selected trees within or bordering cactus scrub that provide hunting, roosting, and nesting perches for hawks and corvids and avoiding cactus scrub restoration in areas where the terrain and location make wrens especially vulnerable to predation. Other measures could involve humanely removing feral cats from Conserved Lands and providing educational material and signage encouraging neighboring homeowners to keep their cats indoors so that wrens are protected and cats are safe from predation by wild animals, such as coyotes. | in progress | Hodges Reservoir-Bernardo Bay Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Grant Project |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =2 High Priority Management Actions Implemented from ICR's Restoration Analyses for the San Pasqual Valley and Lake Hodges | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 5, 6
From 2017-2021, collect data on the effectiveness of implementing high priority management actions to restore cactus scrub to expand coastal cactus wren populations and enhance connectivity within the San Pasqual Valley/Lake Hodges genetic cluster (see occurrence table). In 2021, compile data from all restoration projects and determine the effectiveness of cumulative management actions for north San Diego County. Use these results to develop a management strategy that will provide the basis for preparing a North County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan in 2022.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Collect vegetation data to document success of cactus scrub restoration projects. This can include monitoring the height, diameter and survival of planted cactus and the composition and percent cover of native and nonnative shrubs, forbs and grasses. Document wren use of restored cactus scrub. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit restoration and enhancement project metadata, management datasets, and reports to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-3 | Conduct a meta-analysis of habitat restoration data and cactus wren population survey data to determine whether short-term success criteria have been achieved for habitat restoration actions and for wren populations in north San Diego County. Based upon these results, prepare recommendations for a 2022-2031 management strategy for coastal cactus wren. These broad recommendations can be used in 2022 to prepare a North San Diego County Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Conservation and Management Plan with specific, prioritized management actions. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-4 | Submit cactus wren habitat restoration and population meta-analysis datasets, results, and management strategy recommendations for north San Diego County to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Success Criteria 2013-2021: Restore =75 Acres of High Quality Cactus Scrub and Increase the San Pasqual Valley/Lake Hodges Genetic Cluster to =90 Territories on Conserve | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Implement prefire management to reduce potential severity and impacts from future fire at prioritized cactus wren occurrences and habitats most at risk from wildfire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement management actions to reduce severity of potential fires through opening up dense cactus scrub habitats by trimming and thinning shrubs to maintain open scrub, maintaining bare ground buffers around large intact cactus patches, and by reducing nonnative grasses and herbs that can carry wildfire into cactus patches. Design management actions to avoid significant impacts to CSS vegetation or to other MSP species. | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | As opportunities arise, implement management actions to reduce potential fire impacts in conjunction with other ongoing enhancement and restoration projects for cactus wrens. | Available for implementation | |
| IMP-3 | Submit project metadata and management actions to the MSP Web Portal. | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, Implement =1 Management Action to Reduce Impacts from Future Fire at Prioritized Wren Occurrences | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
For at least the first 3 years following a wildfire, use a standardized survey protocol to determine the status of coastal cactus wren occurrences affected by the wildfire. Use a standardized postfire protocol to collect vegetation and other covariates important in characterizing postfire cactus scrub habitat recovery. Collect habitat recovery data at unoccupied cactus scrub sites that are important for enhancing connectivity or for future population expansion. Identify and prioritize management actions to recover wren populations and important cactus scrub habitat patches.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Prepare postfire habitat monitoring protocols and sampling design to determine the status of coastal cactus wrens and characterize cactus scrub recovery following wildfire. Use the monitoring results to identify management actions to ensure postfire recovery of high quality cactus scrub at occupied cactus wren sites and at unoccupied cactus scrub sites important for wren population expansion and connectivity within and between genetic clusters. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, cactus wren postfire survey and habitat monitoring data, annual reports with management recommendations, and a final report documenting project methods and results to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Monitoring of Cactus Wrens and Habitats with Annual Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
For at least the first 3 years following a wildfire, implement management actions identified by postfire monitoring as necessary to protect and rehabilitate high quality cactus scrub to allow for recovery of coastal cactus wren occurrences affected by the wildfire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement management actions to restore cactus scrub habitat destroyed by wildfire. These management actions may include planting large >1m cactus to create nesting and roosting habitat for immediate postfire use by cactus wrens, planting pads and segments to improve habitat over the longer term, and to seed or plant native shrubs and forbs as needed to enhance habitat suitability and increase available arthropod food resources (use recommendations from the Coastal Cactus Wren Demography, Vegetation and Arthropod Study). Control invasive nonnative plants to =20% absolute cover to reduce postfire invasion of nonnative plants and to allow postfire recovery of native plants by reducing competition for water and light. Control erosion and human use impacts while habitat is recoverying. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management actions to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Management in Priority Cactus Wren Habitats | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3, 4
Beginning in 2018, inspect San Miguel savory occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs. After 2018, repeat monitoring every 2 years.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Conduct regional monitoring protocol surveys to assess abundance status and quantify potential threats. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine if routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Every 2 Years with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions as identified through the IMG monitoring in 2016, 2018, and 2020 at San Miguel savory occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit monitoring and management data to the SC-MTX website portal. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit monitoring and management data to the SC-MTX website portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
In 2019, begin preparing a San Miguel savory section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan that incorporates best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should include recommendations to collect and store seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Miguel savory section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | On hold | |
| PRP-2 | Prepare the seed collection plan to include recommendations to collect seeds over multiple years and several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | On hold | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should have guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | On hold | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | On hold | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | On hold | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2020, Completed San Miguel Savory Section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
In 2020, begin implementing high priority actions for San Miguel savory in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2024, =1 Highest Priority Action Implemented for San Miguel Savory from the MSP Seed Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
In 2019, begin preparing a San Miguel savory section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to enhance at least 3 occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prepare prioritized management recommendations for re-establishment of historic occurrences or establishment of new occurrences in suitable habitat, if determined to be necessary for gene flow and population persistence. Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Miguel savory section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | on hold | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to San Miguel savory occurrences. | on hold | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence status, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | on hold | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for San Miguel savory that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | on hold | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2020, Completed San Miguel Savory Section in MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
In 2020, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for San Miguel savory in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2024, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for San Miguel Savory Section from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4
In 2020, begin monitoring effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the San Miguel savory section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 2, 3
In 2021, inspect occurrences of coastal sage scrub MSP VF plant species (cliff spurge, Palmer's goldenbush, San Diego barrel cactus, and snake cholla) on Conserved Lands using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed 2021 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2017, begin annual inspections of extant occurrences of Otay tarplant on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record spatial extent, estimate abundance, and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine if routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP web portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Annually with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the annual IMG monitoring at Otay tarplant occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) . Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities as needed, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring and management recommendations to the MSP web portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2017 continue the collaboration with the South County Grasslands Project initiated in 2014 to develop BMPs for landscape-scale restoration of Otay tarplant habitat in MU3 that includes testing methods of seeding and invasive plant control so that nonnative plants and thatch are reduced to less than 20% relative cover and thatch to <5 cm tall and native plants to at least 25% relative cover. These percent cover criteria could be revised based on data collected from an acceptable reference site.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Conduct experiments using mowing, prescribed burns herbicide and potentially grazing to control invasive non-native grasses and forbs at a landscape-scale and to compare drill seeding versus hand broadcast seeding in order to determine economical and effect. | in progress | Regional Grazing Monitoring Plan |
| DEV-2 | Based upon experiment results, develop explicit BMPs for the restoration of Otay tarplant. Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and BMP report to MSP web portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| BMPs Developed for Restoration of Otay tarplant by 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2018, and continuing for 3 years at the 3 Otay tarplant restoration sites initiated under the South County Grasslands project, use BMPs to maintain the maximum occupied extent and a surrounding buffer area equal to 25% of this extent by preventing ground disturbance and reducing nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% total cover and thatch to <5 cm tall.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Conduct invasive plant control annually using BMPs until success criteria are met and then as needed thereafter. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, 3 Otay Tarplant Occurrences Enhanced/Established and Reports Submitted | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2018, begin preparing an Otay tarplant section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain and expand conserved occurrences based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than or equal to 20% absolute cover within the occurrence.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for Otay tarplant in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to Otay tarplant occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence size, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for Otay tarplant that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata, project datasets, and the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Otay Tarplant Section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2019, begin implementation of highest priority management actions for Otay tarplant identified in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata and management datasets, report to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Otay tarplant from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2019, begin monitoring the effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the Otay tarplant section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2018, begin preparing a section for Otay tarplant in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (e.g., Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for:collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Otay tarplant section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Prepare a seed collection plan to collect seeds over multiple years, collect seeds several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines from small occurrences (<1,000 plants) and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest and based on genetic studies as available. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Otay Tarplant Section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2019, begin implementing the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for Otay tarplant to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, > 1 Highest Priority Action Implemented for Otay Tarplant from the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6
In 2018 and 2020, inspect variegated dudleya occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed in 2018 and 2020 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions as identified through the IMG monitoring in 2016, 2018 and 2020 at variegated dudleya on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform as needed routine management activities, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through fencing and enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
Beginning in 2018, establish program and permits to allow emergency management actions for the Southwestern pond turtle during or immediately following wildfire events, such as implementation of emergency rescue and temporary translocation, to protect from potential loss or extirpation.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Develop protocols, monitoring standards, and permit process for the rescue of Southwestern pond turtles during wildfire events. | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Wildfire rescue program established for Southwestern pond turtle in 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
Beginning in 2019, implement Southwestern pond turtle rescue program during wildfire events to protect from loss and/or extirpation
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit management data and reports to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Wildfire rescue program implemented for Southwestern pond turtle | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
Beginning in 2019, monitor the effectiveness of Southwestern pond turtle rescue programs following wildfire events, including translocation or re-introduction efforts.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit monitoring data and report to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Monitoring of post fire rescue programs for Southwest pond turtles implemented | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
From 2017 to 2021, implement post fire management actions to ensure the recovery of Southwest pond turtle at occupied sites following wildfire events, including invasive plant and animal control, debris/sediment removal, erosion control or other management actions as needed after fire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement needed management actions as determined through BAER or other post fire surveys. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Post fire management actions implemented following wildfire events | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
From 2017 to 2021, monitor stream conditions and the effectiveness of management actions implemented to assist in recovery of Southwestern pond turtle for 3 years following wildfire events.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Monitor stream flows and water quality postfire, document recovery of southwestern pond turtle populations and habitat, and effectiveness of any management actions for first 3 years after fire. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Monitoring of post fire management actions, stream conditions, and population status for Southwest pond turtles implemented for 3 years post fire | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
In 2021, inspect occurrences of coastal sage scrub MSP VF plant species (cliff spurge, Palmer's goldenbush, San Diego barrel cactus and snake cholla) on Conserved Lands using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed 2021 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
In 2017-2018, develop habitat suitability models for Quino checkerspot, host plants, and nectaring plants under current and future climate change scenarios, and conduct fire risk modeling with different management scenarios to identify potential climate and fire refugia. The results of this modeling will be used to inform development of monitoring and management plans.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Submit project metadata, modeling datasets, results and report to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Quino Checkerspot Current and Future Climate Habitat Models and Report Completed in 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
Beginning in 2017, prepare a long-term Quino checkerspot metapopulation monitoring plan to track population distribution, abundance, and phenology, and to assess habitats and threats at checkerspot occurrences (see occurrence table), historically occupied and unoccupied high suitability sites across Conserved Lands in the MSPA. The monitoring plan should build upon previous surveys, habitat assessments and modeling to include specific monitoring questions, the sampling frame within the MSPA, monitoring methods, a statistically valid sampling design, sampling locations, timeline, and standardized protocols for determining the status and abundance of larval and adult butterflies and for assessing habitat and threats at each sampling site to determine management needs. The plan should stipulate that for each survey year, a report be prepared with site-specific management recommendations. The monitoring plan will be piloted with field surveys in 2018 to determine if adjustments need to be made and will be finalized in 2019 and then added to the final management plan in 2021 to create a comprehensive Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Work with the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers and other stakeholders to develop the monitoring plan. | in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Include fire risk and climate change modeling results to provide management recommendations in relation to fire and climate refugia and to reduce fire risk at occurrences. | in progress | |
| PRP-3 | Submit project metadata, datasets and Quino Checkerspot Monitoring Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Quino Checkerspot Metapopulation Monitoring Plan Completed in 2019 | 2019 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
In 2018 conduct pilot monitoring to evaluate monitoring methodology and sampling design and locations, and prepare recommendations for any adjustments to the monitoring plan. From 2019 to 2021, implement monitoring annually and submit data with management recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Implemented and Data with Recommendations Submitted Annually | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
In 2017-2018, develop a section for Quino checkerpot nectaring forbs and host plants in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to enhance and restore habitat for the butterfly. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (e.g., Wall 2009; KEW 2016) to provide guidelines for collecting and providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds to provide source material with consideration of potential genetic consequences; for management oriented research; seed bulking; and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or establish new occurrences of Quino checkerspot.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Quino checkerspot section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | on hold | |
| PRP-2 | Design a seed collection plan to collect seeds over multiple years, collect seeds several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines from small occurrences (<1,000 plants) and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest and based on genetic studies as available. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By end 2017, Completed Quino Checkerspot Section in MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
In 2018, begin implementing the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for Quino checkerspot to collect and store seeds to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new butterfly occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for butterfly habitat enhancement, expansion, and restoration projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =1 Highest Priority Action Implemented for Quino checkerspot from the MSP Seed Collection, Banking, and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
In 2017, begin developing an interim 5 year Quino Checkerspot Management Plan that focuses on habitat enhancement and restoration and fire management, and includes the information from the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for Quino checkerspot, at known occupied and historically occupied sites. In 2021, update and finalize the management plan with results from the captive rearing and translocation projects and combine with the monitoring plan to create a comprehensive Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Work with the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers and other stakeholders to develop prioritized management actions. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Include fire risk and climate change modeling results to provide management recommendations in relation to fire and climate refugia and to reduce fire risk at occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | Submit project metadata and management and monitoring plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan Completed in 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
Beginning in 2018, implement highest priority management actions for Quino checkerspot on Conserved Lands.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Management actions to be determined by the Quino Checkerspot Management Plan. | waiting for precedent action | Quino Habitat Restoration |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action | Quino Habitat Restoration |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| =1 Management actions implemented for Quino checkerspot by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2018 to 2021, monitor the effectiveness of management actions implemented for Quino checkerspot on Conserved Lands
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, monitoring data and reports to MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness Monitoring Completed within 1 Year of Management Actions | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2017 to 2021, support existing efforts by the wildlife agencies to collect eggs and captive rear larvae to use in reestablishing and augmenting wild Quino checkerspot populations. Use results to finalize the Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Support the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers, San Diego Zoo Global and other stakeholders to implement the captive rearing. | in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Captive Rearing Implemented and Report Submitted by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2017 to 2021, support existing efforts by the wildlife agenices to translocate captive bred Quino checkerspot larvae to historically occupied habitat.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Support the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers, San Diego Zoo Global and other stakeholders to implement the translocation project. | in progress | |
| IMP-1 | Support the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers, San Diego Zoo Global and other stakeholders to implement the translocation project. | in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Translocation Implemented by 2020 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2017 to 2021, support efforts by the wildlife agencies to monitor the effectivenss of translocated captive bred Quinoo checkerspot larvae. Use results to finalize the Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data and reportto MSP web portal | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Translocation Monitoring Completed and Report Submitted by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2017 to 2021, implement invasive plant control and other post-fire management actions as needed to ensure the recovery of Quino checkerspot at sites occupied within the last 10 years to facilitate habitat recovery, particularly forbs and host plants after wildfire events.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement needed management actions as determined through BAER or other post fire surveys. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Post fire management actions implemented following wildfire events | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3, 4, 6, 9
From 2017 to 2021, for at least the first 3 years following a wildfire, monitor recovery of Quino checkerspot occurrences and habitat affected by fire. Use a standardized postfire protocol to document the butterfly's distribution and abundance over time and to characterize habitat recovery and threats following a wildfire. Postfire monitoring should encompass occupied Quino checkerspot sites and unoccupied sites that are important for enhancing connectivity or for future population expansion. The postfire monitoring should identify and prioritize management actions to assist in recovery of Quino checkerspot populations and important habitat patches.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Prepare and implement a postfire habitat monitoring protocol and sampling design to determine the status of Quino checkerspot occurrences and characterize host plant recovery following wildfire. Use the monitoring results to identify management actions to ensure postfire recovery of high quality habitat as identified in the Quino Checkerspot Management and Monitoring Plan. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, Quino checkerspot postfire survey and habitat monitoring data, annual reports with management recommendations, and a final report documenting project methods and results to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Monitoring of Quino Checkerspot and Habitats with Annual Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 1, 3, 6, 7
In 2021, inspect occurrences of coastal sage scrub MSP VF plant species (cliff spurge, Palmer's goldenbush, San Diego barrel cactus and snake cholla) on Conserved Lands using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed 2021 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
In 2017 and 2020, conduct host plant (San Diego sedge), adult, larval and hibernaculum surveys, and habitat assessments for Harbison's dun skipper that were initiated in 2013 in the MSPA (see Table of Occurrences) to further document the butterfly's current distribution and population size, define habitat requirements, and to assess habitat and threats at survey sites.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | Search for Harvison's dun skipper adults, butterfly hiberniculum, larvae and host plants (San Diego sedge) at known occupied habitat, historically occupied habitat and in suitable potential habitat, to determine the extent of the butterfly's range, population sizes, and to better understand habitat relationships. Use a standardized protocol to collect habitat and threats covariate data at each site for developing and prioritizing management actions. | In progress | |
| SURV-2 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Harbison's Dun Skipper Surveys and Reports Completed in 2018 and 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
In 2017, develop habitat suitability models for Harbison's dun skipper, the host plant (San Diego sedge), and oak woodlands under current and future climate change scenarios, and conduct fire risk modeling with different management scenarios to identify potential fire and climate refugia. The results of this modeling will be considered in the development of monitoring and management plans.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Submit project metadata, modeling datasets, results and report to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Harbison's Dun Skipper Current and Future Climate Habitat Models and Report Completed in 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
In 2017, prepare a 5 year Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan that includes the results from butterfly surveys and habitat assessments, genetic and marking studies, and climate and fire modeling to characterize habitat quality at occupied occurrences and unoccupied suitable habitat important for enhancing connectivity, expanding populations or that could serve as fire and climate refugia. The plan should include an overall management strategy, identification and prioritization of sites where management is needed, and specific management recommendations for each site. It should also include actions to reduce fire risk at prioritized occurrences and specifications for monitoring the effectiveness of implementing high priority management actions.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Work with the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers and other stakeholders to develop prioritized management actions. | In progress | |
| PRP-2 | Submit project metadata and Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plant to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan Completed in 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
Beginning in 2018, implement highest priority management actions identified in the Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2022, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented from the Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
Beginning in 2018, monitor effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
Beginning in 2019, implement high priority MSP 2018 Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan measures developed for Harbison's Dun Skipper to reduce the probability of ignition at most at-risk occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Harbison's Dun Skipper from the MSP 2018 Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
For at least the first 3 years following a wildfire, monitor recovery of Harbison's dun skipper occurrences and habitat affected by fire. Use a standardized postfire protocol to document the butterfly's distribution and abundance over time and to characterize habitat recovery and threats following a wildfire. Postfire monitoring should encompass occupied dun skipper sites and unoccupied sites that are important for enhancing connectivity or for future population expansion. The postfire monitoring should identify and prioritize management actions to assist in recovery of Harbison's dun skipper populations and important habitat patches.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Prepare and implement a postfire habitat monitoring protocol and sampling design to determine the status of Harbison's dun skipper occurrences and characterize oak woodland and host plant (San Diego sedge) recovery following wildfire. Use the monitoring results to identify management actions to ensure postfire recovery of high quality habitat as identified in the Harbison's Dun Skipper Management Plan. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, Harbison's dun skipper postfire survey and habitat monitoring data, annual reports with management recommendations, and a final report documenting project methods and results to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Monitoring of Harbison's Dun Skipper and Habitats with Annual Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11
For at least the first 3 years following a fire, implement management actions identified by postfire monitoring as necessary to protect and recover Harbison's dun skipper occurrences and habitat impacted by wildfire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement management actions to restore oak woodland and host plant habitat destroyed by wildfire. These management actions may include planting oaks, host plants, and native nectaring plants. Control invasive plants to to =20% absolute cover to reduce postfire invasion of nonnative plants and to allow postfire recovery of native plants by reducing competition for water and light. Manage erosion and human use impacts while habitat is recoverying. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management actions to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Management in Harbison's Dun Skipper Habitats | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
In 2021, inspect occurrences of coastal sage scrub MSP VF plant species (cliff spurge, Palmer's goldenbush, San Diego barrel cactus and snake cholla) on Conserved Lands using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed 2021 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 3
In 2017, inspect Mexican flannelbush occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to estimate abundance and collect covariate data on tamarisk and other types of threats, determine management needs. After 2017, repeat monitoring every 3 years, unless an occurrence is small (<100 individuals) or faces a high degree of threat, in which case monitor annually.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed 2017 and 2020 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2017, continue routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring that began in 2014 at Mexican flannelbush occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) . Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through fencing and enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | San Diego National Wildlife Refuge: Mother Miguel Mountain |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation | San Diego National Wildlife Refuge: Mother Miguel Mountain |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 6, 7
In 2017, begin preparing an Orcutt's hazardia section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2014 genetic study to provide guidance for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Orcutt's hazardia section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-2 | Design the seed collection plan to include recommendations to collect seeds over multiple years and several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should have guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | Available for implementation | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. | Available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2018, Completed Orcutt's Hazardia Section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 6, 7
In 2018, begin implementing high priority actions for Orcutt's hazardia in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2022, =1 Highest Priority Action Implemented for Orcutt's hazardia from the MSP Seed Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 6, 7
In 2017, begin preparing an Orcutt's hazardia section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or enhance occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the Orcutt's brodiaea section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | available for implementation | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to Orcutt's hazardia occurrences. | available for implementation | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence status, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | available for implementation | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for Orcutt's hazardia that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | available for implementation | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2018, Completed Orcutt's Hazardia Section in MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 6, 7
In 2018, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for Orcutt's hazardia in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2022, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Orcutt's Brodiaea from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 6, 7
In 2018, begin monitoring effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the Orcutt's hazardia section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 6, 7
Conduct a study to determine the population dynamics of Orcutt's hazardia in response to natural and altered fire frequencies that may affect successional processes and population dynamics. The study should begin when the next fire burns an Orcutt's hazardia occurrence to research post-fire recovery mechanisms (e.g., resprouter vs. obligate seeder) and circumstances in which post-fire management is necessary to facilitate robust post-fire recovery of Orcutt's hazardia.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses, and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Orcutt's Hazardia Fire Study Completed and Report Submitted by 5 Years Post Fire | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 4, 5, 8
If extant occurrences of heart-leaved pitcher sage are discovered on Conserved Lands in 2017-2021, inspect the occurrences and repeat monitoring every 2 years. Use a regional monitoring protocol to record population abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | Available for implementation | Rare Plant Inspect and Manage Monitoring 2014-2026 |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | Available for implementation | Rare Plant Inspect and Manage Monitoring 2014-2026 |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| If Extant Occurrences Found on Conserved Lands, Surveys Completed Every 2 Years with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 4, 5, 8
If heart-leaved pitcher sage occurrences are found on Conserved Lands, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring. Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to less than 20% absolute cover. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| If Extant Occurrences Found on Conserved Lands, Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2017-2019, continue surveys for adult Hermes copper (see occurrence table) and habitat assessments begun in 2016 to document the butterfly's current distribution and abundance and to assess habitat and threats at survey sites. Prepare site-specific management recommendations based on survey results and habitat assessments.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | Search for adult Hermes copper butterflies and host plants (spiny redbery) at known occupied habitat, historically occupied habitat, habitat recovering from wildfire, and suitable habitat with potential to support the butterfly to determine the extent of the range, population sizes, and to better understand habitat relationships. Use a standardized protocol to collect habitat and threats covariate data at each site for developing and prioritizing management actions. | in progress | |
| SURV-2 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Surveys and Reports Completed in 2017 and 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
From 2017 to 2019, continue Hermes Copper translocation experiments begun in 2014 to test the effectiveness of releasing eggs and larvae to repopulate the Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area (see Table of Occurrences) where the original population was extirpated by fire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Continue releasing Hermes copper eggs at Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area where the butterfly was extirpated in 2017, to see if translocation success can be improved under normal rainfall conditions. Nine of 14 larvae emerged in 2015 from translocated eggs and 1 adult was observed in 2016, despite the prolonged and intense drought. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Translocation Experiments Completed in 2019 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
From 2017 to 2021, continue monitoring the effectiveness of Hermes Copper translocation experiments begun in 2014 at Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area (see Table of Occurrences). Extend the monitoring for 2 years after the last egg is translocated to determine whether a population has been established.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets, analyses and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Translocation Monitoring and Reports Completed Annually | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2017, continue development of BMPs begun in 2013 for captive rearing Hermes Copper at the San Diego Zoo. Attempt to determine optimal conditions for rearing Hermes copper in captivity to provide a source of butterflies for translocations to re-establish populations at sites where the butterfly has been extirpated or to establish new populations in suitable habitat.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Captive Rearing Experiments and Report Completed by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2017, develop habitat suitability models for Hermes copper and the host plant (spiny redberry), and the primary nectaring plant (California buckwheat) under current and future climate change scenarios, and conduct fire risk modeling with different management scenarios to identify potential climate and fire refugia. The results of this modeling will be used to inform development of monitoring and management plans for this butterfly.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Submit project metadata, modeling datasets, results and report to the MSP Web Portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Current and Future Climate Habitat Models and Report Completed in 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2017, complete a 5 year Hermes Copper Management Plan that includes the results from butterfly surveys and habitat assessments and genetic, marking and translocation studies to develop a management strategy and to identify and prioritize site specific management actions. The plan should employ the modeling results to identify potential fire and climate refugia that may be suitable sites for future translocations and provide specific recommendations for reducing fire risk at occurrences at highest risk.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Work with the Butterfly Working Group consisting of species experts, scientists, wildlife agencies, land managers and other stakeholders to develop prioritized management actions. | completed | |
| PRP-2 | Include fire risk and climate change modeling results to provide management recommendations in relation to fire and climate refugia and to reduce fire risk at occurrences. | completed | |
| PRP-3 | Submit project metadata and Herme's Copper Management Plant to the MSP Web Portal. | completed |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Management Plan Completed in 2017 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2018, begin implementing high priority management actions from the Hermes Copper Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2021, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented from the Hermes Copper Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
Beginning in 2018, monitor effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the Hermes Copper Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined and Report Completed | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2018, develop a monitoring plan to track long term distribution, abundance, and phenology, and to assess habitats and threats at Hermes copper occurrences (see Table of Occurrences), historically occupied and unoccupied high suitability sites across Conserved Lands in the MSPA. The monitoring plan should build upon previous surveys, habitat assessments and modeling to develop specific questions, monitoring methods, a statistically valid sampling design, sampling locations, and standardized protocols for determining the status and abundance of the butterfly and for assessing habitat and threats at each sampling site to determine management needs. The plan should stipulate that for each survey year, a report be prepared with site-specific management recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Incorporate previously tested survey methods into development of a Hermes copper monitoring protocol and habitat assessment.The sampling frame should include the current and historic range of the butterfly on Conserved Lands and any unoccupied suitable habitat modeled as climate or fire refugia. Include a subset of sites in north and south San Diego County classified as sentinel sites and monitored every survey year to characterize the conditions and phenology for the butterfly in that year. The remainder of sites should be included in a rotating panel to be surveyed in alternative years. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Submit project metadata and Hermes Copper Monitoring Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Monitoring Plan Completed in 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
In 2020, begin implementing long term Hermes copper monitoring as specified in the Hermes Copper Monitoring Plan. Prepare a report detailing butterfly and habitat assessment results and with site specific management recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses and monitoring report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Hermes Copper Monitoring and Report Completed Each Survey Year | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
Beginning in 2019, implement high priority MSP 2018 Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan measures for Hermes copper to reduce the probability of ignition at most at-risk occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2023, =2 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Hermes Copper from the MSP 2018 Wildfire Ignition Reduction Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
For at least the first 3 years following a wildfire, use a standardized survey protocol to determine the status of Hermes copper occurrences impacted by fire. Use a standardized postfire protocol to collect vegetation and other covariates important in characterizing Hermes copper habitat recovery following a fire. Postfire monitoring should include collecting habitat recovery data at unoccupied sites that are important for enhancing connectivity or for future population expansion. Identify and prioritize management actions to recover Hermes copper populations and important habitat patches.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Prepare and implement a postfire habitat monitoring protocol and sampling design to determine the status of Hermes copper and characterize coastal sage scrub, host plant (spiny redberry), and nectar plant (California buckwheat) recovery following wildfire. Use the monitoring results to identify management actions to facilitate postfire recovery of high quality habitat at occupied sites and at unoccupied sites important for Hermes copper population expansion and connectivity between occurrences. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, Hermes copper postfire survey and habitat monitoring data, annual reports with management recommendations, and a final report documenting project methods and results to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Monitoring of Hermes Copper and Habitats with Annual Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11
For at least the first 3 years following a fire, implement management actions identified by postfire monitoring as necessary to protect and rehabilitate high quality habitat to allow for recovery of Hermes copper occurrences impacted by wildfire.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement management actions to restore coastal sage scrub, host plants (spiny redberry) and nectaring plants (California buckwheat) at Hermes copper habitats destroyed by wildfire. These management actions may include planting host plants, nectaring plants, and controlling invasive plants to to =20% absolute cover to reduce postfire invasion of nonnative plants and to allow postfire recovery of native plants by reducing competition for water and light. Control erosion and human use impacts while habitat is recoverying. | On hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management actions to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| At Least 3 Years of Postfire Management in Hermes Copper Habitats | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2019, inspect Jennifer's monardella occurrences on Conserved Lands in (see occurrence table) using the rare plant IMG regional monitoring protocol to record occupancy abundance and collect covariate data to determine management needs. After 2019, repeat monitoring every 3 years, unless an occurrence faces a high degree of threat, in which case monitor annually.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed in 2019 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at Jennifer's monardella occurrences in 2016 and 2019 on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities as needed, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP web portal | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 4, 6
From 2017-2021, inspect willowy monardella occurrences annually on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Annually with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 4, 6
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the annual IMG monitoring at willowy monardella occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through fencing and enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species =20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2019, survey historic willowy monardella locations to determine occurrence status; survey and delineate potentially suitable habitat for new occurrences; survey existing occurrences to identify the potential for enhancement and expansion; and at all sites collect data on occurrence status, habitat and threats and determine management needs. Conduct a hydrological evaluation at each site to determine the current hydrology and risk to existing or potential occurrences from erosion and flooding. Prioritize all evaluated sites based on feasibility of maintaining a sustainable population over the long term and recommend management needed to reduce threats to existing and potential new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURV-1 | At each extant occurrence, map the extent of the occurrence, collect data on abundance, map adjacent suitable habitat for potential occurrence expansion, collect covariate data on threats including estimates of cover of invasive non-native plants and trampling. | on hold | |
| SURV-2 | Submit project metadata, habitat mapping, and a report with site prioritizations and recommendations for management based upon occurrence status, habitat and threats assessments and hydrological evaluations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys and Report Completed by 2019 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2020, begin preparing a section for willowy monardella in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan that incorporates best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should also include recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study and the 2019 baseline surveys and hydrological evaluation to guide collection and storage of seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, MCAS Miramar, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the willowy monardella section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-2 | Prepare the seed collection plan to incorporate genetic study results and with recommendations to collect seeds over multiple years and several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should have guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2020, Completed Willowy Monardella Section in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2021, begin implementing high priority actions for willowy monardella in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action | California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2024, =2 Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Action Completed for Willowy Monardella | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2020, begin preparing a section for willowy monardella in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain the large occurrence and enhance at least 4 small occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prepare prioritized management recommendations to re-establish historic occurrences or new occurrences in suitable habitat, if determined to be necessary for gene flow and to maintain self sustaining populations for the long term persistence of the species in the MSPA. Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, MCAS Miramar, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the willowy monardella section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to willowy monardella occurrences. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence status, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for willowy monardella that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | waiting for precedent action | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2020, Completed Willowy Monardella Section in MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2021, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for willowy monardella in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2024, =2 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Willowy Monardella from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
In 2021, monitor effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the willowy monardella section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 4, 6
Beginning in 2018, conduct a post fire evaluation of hydrological processes at willowy monardella occurrences following a fire to determine risks from erosion and flooding and prepare a report with prioritized management recommendations to reduce risk to population persistence and sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| MON-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Willowy Monardella PostFire Hydrological Evaluation Completed and Report Submitted by 6 Months Post Fire | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 4, 6
Implement recommendations identified for willowy monardella from the post fire hydrological evaluation.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit management data to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2 Years Post fire, High Priority Management Actions Implemented for Willowy Monardella from the Post Fire Hydrological Evaluation | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 4, 6
Monitor effectiveness of implementation of highest priority management actions identified in the willowy monardella post fire hydrological evaluation.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of Post Fire High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
Management units: 4, 5
In 2020, inspect chaparral nolina occurrence(s) on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) using the regional IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threat covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, occurrence status, habitat and threats data, and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed in 2020 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 4, 5
Beginning in 2020, conduct routine management actions as identified through the 2016 and subsequent IMG monitoring at chaparral nolina occurrence(s) on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) . Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2017 and continuing every 5 years, thereafter, continue inspections of Dehesa beargrass occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) begun in 2014 using the IMG regional monitoring protocol to record abundance/map perimeters and collect threats and covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed in 2017 with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions begun in 2014 identified through the IMG regional protocol monitoring on Conserved Lands. Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through fencing and enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to less than 20% relative cover. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management data to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
By 2017, refine BMPs for Dehesa beargrass based on results of experimental management studies currently in progress, as well as research studies. Submit all data and reports to MSP web portal.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEV-1 | Refine BMPs by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten Dehesa beargrass populations in San Diego County (e.g., Brachypodium removal project). | In progress | |
| DEV-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data, reports and management recommendations to MSP web portal. | In progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| BMPs for Dehesa Beargrass Completed by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
In 2019, begin preparing a section for Dehesa nolina in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand conserved occurrences based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status habitat and threats. Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for Dehesa nolina in the Rare Plant Management Plan. | on hold | |
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for Dehesa nolina in the Rare Plant Management Plan. | on hold | |
| PRP-2 | Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to Dehesa nolina populations. | on hold | |
| PRP-3 | Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence status, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. | on hold | |
| PRP-4 | Develop an implementation plan for Dehesa beargrass that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. | on hold | |
| PRP-5 | Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2020, Completed Dehesa Nolina Section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
Beginning in 2020, implement highest priority management actions identified in the Dehesa nolina section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Implement site-specific invasive control management actions for a minimum of 3 years to reduce invasive nonnative plants to =20% absolute cover in Dehesa nolina suitable habitat based onthe Dehesa nolina Management Plan, and results from BMP studies (e.g., Brachypodium removal project). Actions may include thatch removal and invasives control using herbicide or mechanical methods. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Based on the response of Dehesa nolina to initial management actions, determine need for (1) further invasives control and (2) additional habitat enhancement such as seeding of additional native plant species that support pollinator communities or facilitate sustainable Dehesa nolina populations by inhibiting germination and growth of invasive species. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-3 | Submit project metadata, reports and management recommendations to MSP web portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2024, =1 High Priority Management Action Implemented for Dehesa Nolina from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
Monitor the effectiveness of highest priority management actions identified in the Rare Plant Management Plan for Dehesa nolina.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
In 2019, begin preparing a section for Dehesa nolina in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (e.g., Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing a source of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group working group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for Dehesa nolina in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-2 | Prepare a seed collection plan to collect seeds over multiple years, collect seeds several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines from small occurrences (<1,000 plants) and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-3 | The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest and based on genetic studies as available. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-4 | Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-5 | Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. | some occurrences are in progress | |
| PRP-6 | Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | some occurrences are in progress |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| By 2019, Completed Dehesa Nolina Section in MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
In 2020, begin implementing high priority actions for Dehesa nolina in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. | waiting for precedent action | |
| IMP-2 | Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Dehesa Nolina Seed Collected for Banking and Bulking Within 2 Years Post-Fire and =1 High Priority Action from the MSP Seed, Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan by 2024 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3
In 2017, begin field research into soils and habitat relationships and conduct habitat suitability and climate change modeling for Dehesa nolina and other edaphic endemic plants to better understand habitat requirements and to identify and prioritize geographic areas important for connectivity, restoration, and range shifts due to climate change and other threats.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Test soils at potential expansion sites and compare to occupied reference sites to determine site suitability based on soils. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-2 | Prepare habitat suitability models under current environmental conditions and for different scenarios of climate change to delineate potential future habitat. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-3 | Collect covariate data on vegetation composition and cover (alliance and association-level mapping), soils, invasive plants and other threats for selected populations. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-4 | Prioritize locations for conservation, management, and future surveys based on predicted distributions and environmental correlates. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| RES-5 | Submit project metadata, monitoring data, habitat models, analyses, and report to MSP web portal. | In progress | Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Refined Models and Prioritized Future Survey Locations for Dehesa nolina by 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of connectivity | LOSCON |
Management units: 3, 4
Beginning in 2018, inspect Gander's ragwort occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table) every 3 years using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect habitat and threats covariate data to determine management needs.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Modify IMG protocol to improve mapping and estimating abundance of large occurrences with difficult to delineate boundaries. In 2018 focus on mapping occurrence boundaries. | on hold | |
| IMP-3 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Surveys Completed Every 3 Years with Management Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 3, 4
Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring in 2016 and subsequent years at Gander's ragwort occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Perform routine management activities such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to less than 20% absolute cover. | available for implementation | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata and management datasets to the MSP Web Portal. | available for implementation |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
Management units: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2018, develop a long-term Blainville's Horned Lizard Monitoring Plan to track their distribution and status, habitat associations and level of threats in chaparral, coastal sage scrub and grassland vegetation communities across Conserved Lands in the MSPA. The plan should integrate with the Chaparral, Coastal Sage Scrub and Grassland Vegetation Monitoring Plan to include sampling at long-term vegetation monitoring plots. The monitoring plan should build upon previous surveys, habitat assessments and modeling to develop specific questions, monitoring methods, a statistically valid sampling design, sampling locations, and standardized protocols for determining the status and abundance of the lizard and for assessing habitat and threats at each sampling site to determine vegetation management needs. The plan should include guidelines for data analysis and preparation of a report with monitoring results and vegetation management recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP-1 | Submit project metadata and Blainville's Horned Lizard Monitoring Plan to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Blainville's Horned Lizard Monitoring Plan completed in 2018 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2019, begin implementing long term Blainville's horned lizard monitoring as specified in the Blainville's Horned Lizard Monitoring Plan. Prepare a report detailing lizard and habitat and threat assessment results and with site specific vegetation management recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, datasets, analyses and monitoring report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Blainville's Horned Lizard Monitoring and Report completed by 2020 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
In 2020, implement regional and subregional California gnatcatcher monitoring initiated in 2016 to determine the percent area occupied (PAO) by California gnatcatcher in modeled high and very high suitability habitat on Conserved Lands and military lands in the MSPA as part of a larger monitoring program for southern California. Over the next 15 years, determine trends in California gnatcatcher PAO and in their colonization and extinction rates and be able to detect at least 30% change in PAO. Identify associations between habitat and threat correlates with gnatcatcher PAO and with extinction and colonization rates and develop biologically meaningful thresholds for management and to specify management criteria and recommendations.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | When the results of the 2016 California gnatcatcher surveys become available, coordinate with the regional California gnatcatcher survey group made up of wildlife agencies, land managers and scientists, to determine when the next round of regional surveys should be implemented. It is anticipated that the surveys are likely to be held in 2020. Based on the monitoring results and group recommendations, adjust the habitat model and sampling frame as necessary to better predict suitable habitat in the northern extent of the range. | on hold | |
| IMP-2 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets, analyses and reports to the MSP Web Portal. | on hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Regional and Subregional California Gnatcatcher Surveys completed and report submitted by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
In 2020, implement California gnatcatcher postfire monitoring conducted in 2015 and 2015 to: determine whether there has been further recovery of California gnatcatchers in areas burned in 2003, 2007 and 2014 (i.e., PAO>10%); evaluate if there is a difference in PAO between areas burned in 2003, 2007 and 2014; investigate the relationship between gnatcatcher PAO and vegetation composition, cover and structure; and evaluate the composition, cover and structure of coastal sage scrub in areas with different fire frequencies and patterns of vegetation recovery based upon time since fire, spatial distribution, previous land use, and environmental conditions. Use the regional gnatcatcher and vegetation monitoring protocols to monitor postfire recovery of gnatcatchers and vegetation at sampling points surveyed in 2016. Analyze gnatcatcher and vegetation data to develop overall and site specific vegetation management recommendations for postfire recovery of coastal sage scrub vegetation to support California gnatcatchers.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| RES-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets, analyses and reports to the MSP Web Portal. | On hold |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Postfire California Gnatcatcher Surveys completed and report submitted by 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Human uses of the Preserves | HUMUSE |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
Management units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11
In 2021, conduct Engelmann oak woodland monitoring as part of implementation of the Oak Woodland Vegetation Monitoring Plan on Conserved Lands in the MSPA.
| Action | Statement | Action status | Projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMP-1 | Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and reports to the MSP web portal | waiting for precedent action |
| Criteria | Deadline year |
|---|---|
| Oak Woodland Vegetation Monitoring Plan implemented 2021 | 2021 |
| Threat Name | Threat Code |
|---|---|
| Altered fire regime | ALTFIR |
| Altered hydrology | ALTHYD |
| Climate change | CLICHN |
| Herbivory/predation | |
| Invasive animals | INVANI |
| Invasive plants | INVPLA |
| Loss of ecological integrity | ECOINT |
| Parasitism/disease | |
| Urban development | URBDEV |
| Metric | Condition | Trend | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
1. Percent of Conserved Lands Burned At Least OncePercent of conserved lands that have burned over a 30-year period |
Significant Concern |
Declining |
High |
2. Percent of Conserved Lands Burned 2 or More TimesPercent of conserved lands that have burned 2 or more times over a 30-year period |
Significant Concern |
Declining |
High |
3. Percent of Conserved Lands Burned 3 or More TimesPercent of conserved lands that have burned 3 or more times over a 30-year period |
Significant Concern |
Declining |
High |
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2013 Fire Workshop
This task involves organizing and hosting a Wildland Fire Workshop focused on Southern California and landscape level fires occurring in the last decade. This workshop brought together land managers, researchers, and fire management personnel to continue the discussions on the topic of wildland fire impacts to at risk natural resources. The purpose of the workshop was to present, collaborate, and plan wildland fire-related research, management, responses, and future recovery as it applies to the fire risk for natural resources of San Diego County.
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2023-2024 Coastal sage scrub and chaparral community monitoring for western San Diego County
Western San Diego County is dominated by shrublands supporting biologically diverse native plant and animal communities. Widespread urbanization has led to regional habitat loss and fragmentation and many species in these shrubland communities are rare, threatened, or endangered. Large-scale, multiple species conservation planning has resulted in a regional preserve system that focuses on these shrubland communities. A number of large-scale threats are leading to type conversion from shrub-dominated to non-native invasive annual grass-dominated vegetation. To understand the changes that are occurring to native shrublands, we have developed a vegetation monitoring program with several components at multiple spatial scales, focused on quantifying coastal sage scrub (CSS) and chaparral vegetation community characteristics. Several drivers of change associated with type conversion of native shrubland to non-native annual grassland have been identified by previous research including increasing fire frequency, nitrogen deposition from air pollution, and prolonged and intense drought associated with changing climate.
The objectives of this CSS and chaparral vegetation community monitoring plan are to:
1) Determine the distribution, composition, structure, and integrity of CSS and chaparral vegetation communities on conserved lands in western San Diego County,
2) Identify whether these attributes of the vegetation communities are changing over time, and
3) Evaluate relationships of known drivers of change (threats) and environmental factors in association with changes in vegetation community attributes.
The goal of this monitoring program is to classify CSS and chaparral vegetation community integrity, identify areas of degradation across western San Diego County, and characterize drivers, and environmental factors associated with loss of ecological integrity. A combination of vegetation mapping, landscape-scale remote sensing, and field plots will be used to address all the aspects of our research questions. Data compiled and collected will be available to conservation partners to help inform future management decisions.
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Blue Sky Ecological Reserve Fire Restoration and Invasive Removal
Blue Sky Ecological Reserve burned in 2007. In 2008, restoration focused on the removal of Castor bean, mustard, tree tobacco palms, dittrichia, fountain grass, acacia, cape ivy, tamarix and pampas grass. Major restoration efforts concluded after 3 years. Maintenance has continued with the treatment of Castor bean and Italian thistle.
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California Gnatcatcher Post-Fire Study
This is a planned 5-year study. The purpose of this study is to: 1) Determine whether there has been further recovery of CAGN in areas burned in 2003 (i.e., occupancy greater than 10%). 2) Determine if there is a difference in CAGN occupancy between areas burned in 2003, 2007, and 2014. 3) Determine the relationship between CAGN occupancy and vegetation composition, cover and structure. 4) Determine the composition, cover, and structure of CSS vegetation in areas with different fire histories and evaluate patterns of vegetation recovery based upon lime since fire, spatial distribution, previous land use, and environmental conditions.
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Coastal Cactus Wren Conservation Network
The Coastal Cactus Wren Conservation Network is an ad hoc group of more than 100 individuals representing research institutions, land management agencies, local government, non-profit conservation organizations and wildlife agencies. Members work together to exchange research and management information to develop best practices, policies, and programs that promote conservation and recovery of this bird throughout its range (Ventura, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego counties). This information will inform publication of a regional conservation strategy for the coastal cactus wren.
Cactus wrens (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) are distributed across the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern and central Mexico (Hamilton et al. 2011). While the desert populations are fairly abundant, populations of coastal cactus wrens have declined dramatically over the past 30 years, with extirpation and genetic isolation affecting many locations as a result of habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, edge effects of development, and catastrophic fires (Solek and Szijj 2004). The coastal population is unique in that it occurs exclusively within the coastal sage scrub plant community, ranging from Ventura County south into San Diego County, U.S.A. and northwestern Baja California, Mexico. The firestorms of 2007 impacted several strongholds for the coastal cactus wren in Orange and San Diego counties. The significant loss of habitat and birds was the impetus for formation of the Coastal Cactus Wren Network.
For more information on the Coastal Cactus Wren Conservation Network, please see the document titled &quot;Coastal Cactus Wren Working Group Regional Goals, Objectives, and Strategies&quot;.
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Covered and Invasive Species Management: Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest Properties
This was a two year, TransNet-funded study (#5001586) on Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest properties. Both properties support MSCP covered species and sensitive habitats, and function as critical landscape linkages between the northern and southern MSCP. Surrounded by residential development and heavily impacted by the 2003 Cedar Fire, these properties are subject to ongoing invasive plant issues. Specific task actions included invasive plant and covered plant species mapping and risk assessment s, invasive plant control and experimental studies, and development of an early detection invasive control plan. This project was partially funded by SANDAG TransNet EMP Land Management Grant #5001586.
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Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) Monitoring and Management Plan
Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) face many threats in southern California. To reduce these threats and successfully conserve this species in western San Diego County, MSP Roadmap 2021-2026 objectives include the development and implementation of a Management Strategic Plan for Golden Eagles in San Diego County and a Monitoring Strategic Plan for Golden Eagles in San Diego County. These plans include general sections with background information and rationale for prioritizing and developing monitoring and management recommendations. Previously, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in collaboration with local, State, and other Federal agencies has conducted a multi-year research study of golden eagles to address questions regarding habitat use, movement behavior, nest occupancy, genetic population structure, and human impacts on eagles. From 2016-17, occupancy analyses were conducted and it was concluded that estimates of occupancy were greatest at sample sites with more rugged terrain conditions, lower human development, and lower amounts of scrubland vegetation cover (Weins et al. 2022). Tracking data from the last 10 years in the Western Unites States have shown eagles exhibit long-distance, nonroutine movements that were responsive to the updraft potential of the spatial and temporal landscape they encountered (Poessel et al. 2022). For the development of both Plans, chapters will be shaped based on the latest scientific information regarding occupancy, natal nesting success, juvenile dispersal, movement and biotelemetry, home range estimation, habitat use, and prey availability. Site-based threats assessment will be used to determine the best management practices. These plans are developed with input and guidance provided by the San Diego Golden Eagle working group, which includes include landowners and managers, scientists, species experts, and representatives from non-profit organizations, government, and wildlife agencies. Occurrence-specific management recommendations will be based on working group input and multiple years of data on Golden Eagle population status, habitat associations, and threats. These are living documents as the plans will be updated when new information becomes available or management actions are completed, and new recommendations are needed.
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Harbison's Dun Skipper Surveys and Monitoring
SANDAG-funded surveys for Harbison's dun skipper adults were conducted to assess year to year variation in population size. Field visits were used to document use including plants used for nectar sources, as well as obtain non-lethal genetic samples. A rapid habitat assessment was conducted at each site which included general woodland tree species composition, condition of San Diego sedge plants, and recording potential threats to the Harbison's dun skipper.
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Hermes Copper Adult Surveys
In 2016, researchers conducted butterfly surveys and habitat assessments at small northern populations and at southern sites. They did not detect Hermes copper adults at any of the eight northern sites, although this was consistent with other (larger) sites in the county due to continuing drought conditions. They did detect Hermes copper at some of the southern sites. Habitat assessments resulted in the mapping of 65 spiny redberry patches and 11 single redberry shrubs across the 8 sites. Up to 90 redberry shrubs were recorded in a single patch, but more patches were represented by a relatively low number of shrubs, and most of the redberry patches had at least 60% shrub cover. Additional insight may be gained from a more formal comparison to the habitat measured at Hermes copper sites in southern San Diego County. Monitoring for Hermes copper has continued at a subset of the sites in since 2016. The species has been greatly affected by the drought. This contract is funded by a combination of SANDAG (5004388 and 5005783) and USFWS (Contract: F17AC00963) contracts.
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Hodges Reservoir-Bernardo Bay Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Grant Project
This project restored habitat for the California Species of Special Concern, the coastal cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus), near the Hodges Reservoir-Bernardo Bay. This included a 20 acre restoration of cactus burned in the 2007 Witch Creek Fire. Additionally, unauthorized trails were closed off and the soil was stabilized to minimize erosion and filter runoff into source water reservoir. The purpose of this restoration project was to re-establish cactus wren habitat and connectivity to eastern core habitat areas.
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Otay Ranch Preserve Enhancement Project
The goal of the project is to restore and increase the quality of habitat for Quino checkerspot butterfly (MSP Category SL [Species at risk of loss from the Management Strategic Plan Area]) near Minnewawa Truck Trail through seasonal road closure, seeding, and planting within suitable Quino habitat. This program addresses the immediate needs of Quino within the Otay Ranch Preserve (ORP) Dulzura Parcels where loss and degradation of existing Quino habitat has occurred due to vehicles, an increase of invasive plants, and drought. The objectives to reach these goals include 1) container plant installation, 2) seeding, 3) watering, 4) erosion control, 5) removable bollard and sign installation, 6) photographic monitoring, 7) quarterly reports, 8) final report. The methodologies used in this proposal are like those used to successfully restore 6 acres of Quino habitat in the ORP San Ysidro Parcels (CDFW Local Area Assistance Grant), 14.28 acres located in the ORP Salt Creek Parcels for the City of Chula Vista Quino Checkerspot Recovery Program, and 5 acres on USFWS Refuge property for the Quino Checkerspot Augmentation Project. This project is consistent with the management and monitoring approach prescribed in SDMMP’s Management and Monitoring Strategic Plan (MSP Vol. 2D, Page V2D.2-6).
This project is partially funded by SANDAD TransNet Land Management Grant #S1125469.
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Pollinator Monitoring Plan
Declines of insects are being reported worldwide and includes several pollinator species in California. With reduced abundances and loss of species, there is a possibility that the ecosystem function of pollination is being compromised. The most common pollinators are Hymenoptera (bees and wasps), Coleoptera (beetles), Diptera (flies), and Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). Overall, about 87 percent of plant species are pollinated by insects. San Diego Association of Governments TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program's Regional Management and Monitoring 2021-2022 and 2023-2024 workplans include objectives to improve wildlife movement. These objectives are based on the San Diego Management and Monitoring Program's Management and Monitoring Strategic Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County (MSP Roadmap; SDMMP and TNC 2017). Objectives for 2022-2026 are to prepare and implement a monitoring plan to survey pollinator communities and assess ecological integrity of pollinator functions in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, forblands and grasslands across the MSP Area. This project will prepare pollinator data in 2021 for analysis in 2022 and development of a pollinator monitoring pilot study plan in 2023 to be implemented in 2024. This plan is being prepared in conjunction with a coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and grassland vegetation monitoring plan. Pollinator sampling locations will be co-located at vegetation sampling plots.
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Prioritizing Conserved Areas Threatened by Wildfire and Fragmentation for Monitoring and Management
In many parts of the world, the combined effects of habitat fragmentation and altered disturbance regimes pose a significant threat to biodiversity. This is particularly true in Mediterranean-type ecosystems (MTEs), which tend to be fire-prone, species rich, and heavily impacted by human land use. Given the spatial complexity of overlapping threats and species' vulnerability along with limited conservation budgets, methods are needed for prioritizing areas for monitoring and management in these regions. We developed a multi-criteria Pareto ranking methodology for prioritizing spatial units for conservation and applied it to fire threat, habitat fragmentation threat, species richness, and genetic biodiversity criteria in San Diego County, California, USA. We summarized the criteria and Pareto ranking results (from west to east) within the maritime, coastal, transitional, inland climate zones within San Diego County. Fire threat increased from the maritime zone eastward to the transitional zone, then decreased in the mountainous inland climate zone. Number of fires and fire return interval departure were strongly negatively correlated. Fragmentation threats, particularly road density and development density, were highest in the maritime climate zone, declined towards the east, and were positively correlated. Species richness criteria showed distributions among climate zones similar to those of the fire threat variables. When using species richness and fire threat criteria, most lower-ranked (higher conservation priority) units occurred in the coastal and transitional zones. When considering genetic biodiversity, lower-ranked units occurred more often in the mountainous inland zone. With Pareto ranking, there is no need to select criteria weights as part of the decision-making process. However, negative correlations and larger numbers of criteria can result in more units assigned to the same rank. Pareto ranking is broadly applicable and can be used as a standalone decision analysis method or in conjunction with other methods.
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Proctor Valley Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Barrier
Installation of the original Proctor Valley off-road barrier segments began in the southwest section of the valley in 2009 on City of San Diego, Public Utilities property and was partially funded by a Land Management Grant (#5001137). Subsequent project proposals submitted to SANDAG EMP, as well as other funding sources, resulted in additional OHV barrier sections installed on CDFW property (2010-2011; #5001327), followed in 2014, via a submission by Chaparral Lands Conservancy (and partners) for a project intended to complete the barrier along the remaining open space stretches of Proctor Valley Road (LMG #5001971). This last section included privately owned lands and CDFW's RJER Proctor Valley East unit. The section of barrier fence included in this project was originally planned for installation in 2014, as part of the EMP funded Proctor Valley Vehicle Barriers Project (Chaparral Lands Conservancy). However, that project ran out of funds following unexpected steep increases in the price of steel.
Implementation of the CDFW project (#5004941) is consistent with the implementation of the Fire and Wildlife Action Plan (FWA) assigned to golden eagle, Quino checkerspot butterfly and Hermes copper butterfly via the limitation of access to OHV activities, thus reducing wildfire risk (and preventing other impacts) to their habitats. This project will also maintain large (>300 acres) open areas within golden eagle territories to meet foraging habitat conditions preferred by eagles. This project was intended to reduce/prevent wildfires and other impacts from unauthorized activities on conserved lands in Proctor Valley. There is an urgent need to control access and prevent impacts before such pressures lead to increased unauthorized access. With the installation of the new OHV barrier section, CDFW staff can focus limited resources on management actions necessary to prevent unauthorized vehicle intrusion from adjacent private lands, now that direct access from Proctor Valley Road has been eliminated.
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Rare Butterfly Management Studies- Transloaction 2016
Our research has documented several extirpations due to the 2003 and 2007 wildfires, but few recolonizations despite what appears to be suitable habitat. Although a few small populations exist within and north of the city of San Diego, the majority of Hermes copper individuals are found to the east and southeast of the city between the footprints of 2003 and 2007 fires. Due to the extremely restricted distribution, the species is highly vulnerable since one large fire could push the species to the brink of extinction. Recolonization into post-wildfire habitats is essential for the long-term persistence of Hermes copper; however, it appears that habitat fragmentation is limiting dispersal and preventing recolonizations from occurring.
For these reasons, we initiated a project to evaluate translocation as a management tool for establishing self-sustaining Hermes copper populations. If successful, this could be a potential management tool to mitigate the impacts of wildfire. We translocated Hermes copper from larger populations to an area that was occupied by Hermes copper prior to a recent (2007) wildfire. In addition, key members of the vegetation community, including spiny redberry and California buckwheat shrubs were still present after the fire. The success of translocation of adults and eggs was assessed separately.
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Rare Plant Inspect and Manage Monitoring 2014-2026
From 2014-2026, a Management and Monitoring Strategic Plan (MSP Roadmap) monitoring objective for 30 rare plant species is to inspect occurrences to determine management needs. The inspect and manage (IMG) objective is implemented to document the status of rare plant occurrences and assess habitats and threats to develop specific management recommendations. IMG monitoring is implemented by a combination of land managers and contracted biologists in coordination with the SDMMP. Available rare plant data is posted below. New annual updates are typically posted in March. Based upon an evaluation of these data, a 2014-2026 monitoring schedule has been developed for the 30 rare plant species (attached below). Coordinating data collection across the region allows analyses of species and population trends over time and provides a better understanding of the association between habitat and threat covariates and population dynamics.
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Regional Grazing Monitoring Plan
This project evaluates using grazing as a management tool for degraded grasslands and coastal sage scrub habitat. Pilot projects will be conducted to look at the efficacy of grazing as management tool and necessary monitoring methods. The project was designed to answer four primary questions (and their associated objectives): 1) How effective is grazing at reducing fire risk? 2) Can grazing effectively enhance disturbed native grassland and forb habitats 3) Can grazing enhance disturbed native coastal sage scrub habitat? 4) Can grazing reduce nonnative grass and forb cover in disturbed coastal sage scrub to increase native shrub cover and bare ground and improve habitat for MSP species such as Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino), California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), and black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus)? Initial study sites were established at Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve and Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area. This is a SANDAG-funded project.
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San Diego County Harbison's Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris harbisoni) Habitat Conservation and Management Plan
This plan provides a summary of what is known regarding the Harbison's dun skipper, including life
history, historic and current distribution, movement patterns, suitable habitat, and threats. A thorough
understanding of the species is necessary to make appropriate adaptive management recommendations
in an attempt to alleviate the current threats to the species. To develop this plan, we:
1. Reviewed existing data, including historic Harbison's dun skipper locations, recent (2013-2017)
survey data, property ownership to identify conserved lands for potential surveys, management,
and acquisitions, and
2. Consulted with the wildlife agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that the most current
information regarding Harbison's dun skipper biology, management, regulations, conserved
lands, and potential acquisitions were included.
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SDMMP Summary of Achievements 2008-2024
As a program, SDMMP has regionally monitored 52 species and regionally surveyed 68 species across all taxa; monitored and/or mapped 8 vegetation communities; and modeled, assessed, and mapped 8 threats and stressors. Additionally, the SDMMP has completed 27 genetic studies, 80 research studies, 18 habitat models, and interacted with more than 75 partner groups. The table provided breaks down management and monitoring tasks that have been completed by species, vegetation community, and threats.
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Suppression and Planning Actions for Restoring Communities and Species (SPARCS)
SPARCS (Suppression & Planning Actions for Restoring Communities & Species) is a program that creates proactive solutions by connecting local Ecological and Cultural resource experts with fire managers to identify concerns for active wildfire management in the Southern California Ecoregion.
Impacts to natural and cultural resources on active wildfires via fire effects and suppression activities can have long-lasting effects on habitat. In Southern California, there is a mosaic of open space and conservation landowners as well as being an ecological hotspot with dozens of endangered species of plants and wildlife that makes resource protection during wildland fire management a challenge. With the increased risk of wildland fire, especially along the wildland urban interface, wildland fire managers need to incorporate local experts and conservation open space landowners into decision making processes.
It is a collaboration of local agencies including the USGS Western Ecological Research Center San Diego Field Station, BLM, San Diego Management and Monitoring Program, USFWS, NPS, CalFire, the County of San Diego, and local NGOs and will facilitate a shift in adaptive management in Southern California by establishing databases and web maps for fire personnel to utilize while responding to wildland fires in Southern California and create and manage a cohort of Resource Advisors in the Southern California Ecoregion.
This program received initial funding from SANDAG and expanded support from Camp Pendleton MCB and ACOE Los Angeles District.
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Valley Fire Rare Plant Discovery Surveys
A project between the SDMMP and US Forest Service to establish and prioritize survey areas on Conserved Lands within the perimeter of the 2020 Valley Fire to document whether historic occurrences are extant and to discover new occurrences for 18 rare plant species. In 2022, AECOM and Conservation Biology Institute botanists surveyed areas for 18 target rare plant species and mapped the spatial extent of each new occurrence, counted or estimated the occurrence population size, and collected voucher specimens. They also photographed each new occurrence from a georeferenced location that captured a representative view of the occurrence. Botanists created a species list for the areas surveyed within the Valley Fire footprint. These areas included locations where rare plants were detected and mapped and negative data point areas where rare plants were not detected. In 2023, botanists shall again conduct surveys on suitable habitat on USFS lands burned in the 2020 Valley Fire. Results from these surveys should lead to a greater understanding of post-fire rare plant composition. In 2023, botanists may see species that did not emerge in the first year of surveys, and species found in the first year of surveys may have expanded their range. The 18 rare plant species included in the surveys are: San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia), Marvin's allium (Allium marvinii), Western spleenwort (Asplenium vespertinum), Deane's milkvetch (Astragalus deanei), Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae), San Diego goldenstar (Bloomeria clevelandii), Orcutt's brodiaea (Brodiaea orcuttii), Lakeside ceanothus (Ceanothus cyaneus), San Miguel savory (Clinopodium chandleri), Variegated dudleya (Dudleya variegata), Mission Canyon bluecup (Githopsis diffusa filicaulis), Ramona horkelia (Horkelia truncata), Heart-leaved pitcher sage (Lepechinia cardiophylla), Felt-leaved pitcher sage (Monardella hypoleuca lanata), Chaparral nolina (Nolina cismontana), Gander's ragwort (Packera ganderi), Moreno currant (Ribes canthariforme), and Parry's tetracoccus (Tetracoccus dioicus).
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West Bernardo Mountain HMA Enhancement & Restoration
Project goals are to enhance and restore coastal sage scrub and cactus scrub habitat on the southwest slope of Bernardo Mountain near Lake Hodges. Partially funded by the SANDAG TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program. Contract Number: S1125508
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