General development plan report

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN REPORT

COUNTY OF ORANGE
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AGENCY

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Lidyof f Houiian
Landscape Architecture Planning

December 1981

The Honorable Board of Supervisors
Hall of Administration
County of Orange
10 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, California 92702

SUBJECT: General Development Plan and Report for Aliso Greenbelt Trail
System and Public Facilities

Gentlemen:

We are pleased to submit the General Development Plan (GDP) and Report
for the Aliso Greenbelt Trail System and Public Facilities. Preparation
of this report was authorized by your Honorable Board on June 2, 1981.

The GDP Report is based upon the Aliso Greenbelt Management Plan prepared
for the California State Coastal Conservancy in July 1979, and includes
hiking, biking and equestrian trails, and picnicking and camping sites.

This report has been prepared in response to the Environmen'tal Management
Agency's concern for the proper and logical development of the trail
system and other public facilities within the Aliso Greenbelt. The report
provides the necessary framework for implementing the trail system and
public recreation facilities within the Greenbelt.

We respectfully solicit any comments or questions you may have regarding
this report.

Respectfully,

LIDYOFF/HOURIAN
Landscape A itectu e nq@,Planning

Mike Li yoff Hou an

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General Development Report for
ALISO GREENBELT PUBLIC FACILITIES

Prepared by LIDYOFF/HOURIAN, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS for:

COUNTY OF ORANGE
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AGENCY

December, 1981

Members of the Board of Supervisors:

Ralph B. Clark, Chariman, Fourth District
Roger R. Stanton, First District
Harriet M. Wieder, Second District
Bruce Nestande, Vice Chairman, Third District
Thomas F. Riley, Fifth District

This publication was prepared with financial assistance
from the U.S. Office Coastal Zone Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under the
provisions of the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972, as amended, and from the California Coastal Com-
mission under the provisions of the Coastal Act of 1976.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2.0 INTRODUCTION

2.1 PROJECT HISTORY
2.2 BACKGROUND

3.0 SITE EVALUATION

3.1 PHYSICAL ANALYSIS

A. LOCATION
B. SITE DESCRIPTION
C. TOPOGRAPHY
D. SURROUNDING USES

3.2 BIOLDGICAL OVERVIEW

A. PICNIC SITES
B. CAMPSITES
C. TRAIL
D. RANGER RESIDENCE

4.0 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN WITH SITE SPECIFIC HABITAT
MANAGEMENT PLAN

4.1 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT' PLAN OVERVIEW
4.2 PICNIC SITES
4.3 CAMPSITES
4.4 BIKE TRAIL DESCRIP'TION
4.5 HIKING/EQUESTRIAN DESCRIPTION
4.6 RANGER RESIDENCE SITES
4.7 UrILITY RBQUIREMENrS
4.8 FIRE PROTE = ON CONSIDERATIONS

5.0 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN BUDGET

6.0 BIBLIOGRAPH!(

7.0 APPENDIX To REPORT

7.1 BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS
7.2 BIOLOGICAL MAPS B-1 thru B-7
7.3 CAMPGROUND/PICNIC SITES S-1 thru S-7
7.4 KEY MAP To GREENBELT TRAILS T-1
7.5 HIKING/EQUESTRIAN TRAIL T-2 thru T-5
7.6 BICYCLE TRAIL C-1 thru C-3

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This General Development Plan Report for the Aliso Greenbelt Public Facilities
is a refinement of recreational activities proposed in the Aliso Greenbelt
Management Program (AGMP). The AGMP was the initial step in developing a master
planned approach for all facets of development, financing and management of the
Greenbelt. The two documents are meant to function in concert, with this report
being a refinement of recreational element of the AGMP. The GDP presents a
closer look at the public recreational facilities and provides the overall frame
work for the development of equestrian and hiking trails, a bicycle trail linking
Aliso Beach Park with the inland residential communities, picnic and camp grounds,
and alternate locations for a ranger residence.

Special consideration was given to wildlife habitat and areas of biological sen-
sitivity in an effort to minimize the impact of man on the natural environment.
Impact and mitigation measures have been identified on a site specific basis;
buffer plantings are proposed to protect wildlife dispersion corridors; and in
some cases where adverse impacts were unavoidable, proposed facilities in the
AGMP have been relocated to less sensitive sites.

THE GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Five basic steps by the consultant were involved in formulating the GDP for Aliso
Greenbelt Public Facilities - they were:

1. Research and physical reconnaissance

2. Biological analysis

3. Developing and mapping the base data

4. Preparation of alternative schematic plans

5. Preparation of the GDP

The following are key elements of the GDP:

1. Overnight campsites - One camp ground with five (5) sites at the mouth
of Corral Canyon and one camp ground with five (5) sites in Mathis
Canyon are proposed with provisions for four people per site. Camping
will accommodate 40 campers, per night. Access to the camping site is
by hiking the equestrian trails.
2. Picnic Day Use - Five (5) picnic areas with a to@al of forty-five (45)
individual picnic sites are located throughout the Greenbelt with access
provided by linking hiking, biking or equestrian trails. The total
picnic capacity proposed will be approximately 225 persons.

3. Hiking Equestrian Trails - Approximately 4.0 miles of hiking and eques-
trian trails are proposed. These trails wouid be approximately 10 feet
wide, clear of brush, and graded only to achieve a level trail.

4. Bicycle Trail - Approximately 3.4 miles of bicycle trail are planned to
link the inland residential communities of Aliso Viejo, Nellie Gail

Ranch and Mission Viejo with the recreational opportunities of Aliso
Beach Park and the Pacific Ocean. The proposed bike trail follows,the
existing ATIMA access road through Aliso Canyon.

5. Ranger Residence - Three alternative sites and four alternative struc-
ture types are identified and the advantages and disadvantages of each
are outlined. The specific site selection and structure type will be
made at a later time based upon management/operation considerations.

6. Vehicular Access - There will be no private vehicular access to the
interior of the Greenbelt. Access will be available only to mainte-
nance vehicles for the AWMA Plant, emergency vehicles and those public
vehicles necessary for the operation and maintenance of the Greenbelt,
A location for a parking area is proposed at Alicia Parkway and Aliso
Creek at the eastern edge of the Greenbelt. This facility will serve
as a staging area for hikers, equestrians, and other recreators. A
future shoreline transit system linking the inland areas to Aliso Beach
via the AWMA Road Right-of-Way is proposed in the AGMP Report.

7. Cost Estimates - With the exception of the ranger residence, the total
cost for improvements included in the G.D.P. is $286,700. Depending
on the location and alternative structure type selected, improvement
costs for the ranger residence can range from $87,500 to $109,500.00

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The preceding summarized the important aspects of the G.D.P. Since this report
addresses only one aspect of the proposed uses identified by the AGMP report, it
is important to be familiar with the initial report, which contains background
information and data upon which this G.D.P. report is based.

The G.D.P. is a refinement of recreational facilities and uses proposed in the
AGMP and is intended to be a cost-effective frame work for implementing first
phase improvements. Future refinement studies will address other land use and
economic proposals of the AGMP and operation and maintenance programs one way.

The Aliso Greenbelt presents an unique opportunity to preserve a significant
area of open space As a part of the County's rapidly expanding urban fabric.
To achieve this goal, we recommend that the major elements of the G.D.P. be
implemented as proposed,

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2.1 PRQJECT HISTORY

With orange County's rapid growth rate, "Natural" undeveloped open
space will become nonexistent in the major urban areas. The need for
recreation will increase with urban growth. The Aliso Greenbelt
Public Faclities will provide an opportunity to preserve permanent
open space acreage within that particular region of the California
coastal zone.

On July 13, 1978, the State Coastal Conservancy adopted a resolution
authorizing the staff to prepare a management plan for the proposed
3,200 acre Aliso Viejo Greenbelt. The Conservancy approved a work
program for preparation of the Aliso Greenbelt Open Space Management
Program and found that the proposed project had a high priority as a
combination coastal restoration/enhancement/agricultura1 presentation
project.

The Aliso Greenbelt Management Program was prepared by John M. Sanger
Associates and beccme widely known as the "Sanger Report". A draft
management plan of the Sanger Report was circulated in June 1979 and
underwent extensive public review and comment at meetings before the
Planning Commission and Harbor Beaches and Parks Commission of orange
County and the City of Laguna Beach.

A revised condensed plan based on the Sanger Report was approved in
concept by the County of Orange and adopted by the Coastal
Conservancy as the Aliso Greenbelt Restoration and Enhancement Plan.
From the Sanger Report came two (2) Demonstration Project Maps of the
Aliso Greenbelt. These maps identified the uses and proposed
locations for campsites, picnic areas, equestrian, hiking and bicycle
trails. These project maps along with the Sanger Report were the
critera for preparing the General Development Plan.

2.2 BACKGROUND

In April, 1979, the County of Orange approved to amend the land use,
circulation and noise element of County General Plan for the Aliso
Viejo development area. As a condition of the amendment, the
developer, the Aliso Viejo Company, has made an irrevocable
contingent offer to dedicate approximately 3,400 acres. The offer
expires on April 11, 1994. At the developers' request, the State
Coastal Conservancy prepared the A.G.M.P. (Aliso Greenbelt Management
Program). The A.G.M.P. consists of land use, financing, and
administrative plans for the land specified in the offer of
dedication and certain adjacent properties totaling 5,300 acres.

The Aliso Greenbelt area is composed of seven (7) large parcels,
several smaller holdings and the County owned Aliso Beach and pier,
which are at the mouth of Aliso Creek. The largest holding is 3,200
acres owned by the Aliso Viejo Company.

The project area contains two canyons, Wood Canyon and Aliso Creek,
each having scenic, recreation, wildlife, biological, archaeological,
and potential agricultural resources. Fran within the project area

exists panoramic vistas of the ocean from higher elevations, long
canyon vistas, hiking and equestrian opportunities throughout the
creek and canyon areas and a variety of wildlife and vegetative
ccm=ities.

-This project area is a primary link to the Orange County Trail System
master plan and will provide direct access to the coast via a
shoreline transit tram service, without private vehicular traffic
access. Residents of the entire region will benefit from this unique
trail system.

In addition to the Bike/Hiking/Equestrian trail system, picnic,and
overnight campgrounds will be constructed to further enhance the
potential use of the project area and still preserve a "natural like"
environnent.

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3.1 PHYSICAL ANALYSIS

A. LOCATION

The 3,200 acre Aliso Viejo Greenbelt site is located in the rolling
coastal hills of southern Orange County west of Interstate 5 and
inland from Pacific Coast Highway (Exhibit 1). The study area is an
undeveloped enclave surrounded by areas of various levels of
development intensity. It is bounded by the proposed 20,000 unit
Aliso Viejo Planned Conmunity to the north and east, the city of
Laguna Beach to the west, unincorporated South Laguna to the south,
and Laguna Niguel and the Federal General Services Administration
(GSA) Building to the east.

B. DESCRIPTION

The majority of the Greenbelt lies within the Aliso Creek watershed
which includes, Aliso Creek Canyon, Wood Canyon, and its tributaries,
Mathis Canyon and Corral Canyon.

Aliso Creek Canyon forms a narrow winding canyon with steep coastal
sage covered slopes that present a striking landform in contrast to
the flat grassland canyon bottom. The canyon contains several
significant physical and biological features. These include the Sheep
Hills ravines and spur near the confluence of Aliso Creek and Wood
Canyon. Moulton Meadows lies to the west across the canyon, along the
ridgeline between the Top of the World and Arch Beach Heights of
Laguna Beach. This area contains grasslands with wildflowers and
scrub assemblages. The high points, within the Aliso Creek Corridor,
are Moulton Meadows and Niguel Hill at approximately 900 feet in
elevation.

Adjacent to Aliso Creek at the southernmost portion of Aliso Canyon
is the A.W.M.A. central wastewater treatment plant and the Ben Brown
Country Club and Golf Course. Aliso Creek terminates at the Pacific
ocean at the county owned Aliso Creek State Beach.

Wood Canyon is an area of significant natural resources, exhibiting a
variety of vegetative communities, wildlife habitats, rock-
outcroppings, diverse landforms and vistas. The canyon contains
extensive treestands, of live oaks and scattered clurrps of sycamores.
Several significant physical and biological features are located
throughout the canyon. These include: CAVE ROCKS, a large sandstone
rock formation amid scattered stands of coast live oaks; DRIPPING
CAVE, a side canyon approximately a quarter mile south of Mathis
Canyon, that contains a high roofed cave, during the winter and
spring months, pools of water form, dripping over the ledge on to
ferns at the cave entrance; MALLARD MARSH, a small freshwater marsh
with a variety of marsh type flora and fauna which is dependent on
rainfall and ground/surface spring water. MATHIS CANYON, a tributary
canyon to Wood Canyon contains grasslands, oak woodlands, coastal
sage scrub camnmities and a clunp of sycamores in the north end of
the canyon. POPPY PATCH NOSE, supports a dense stand of California
po e This is the only dense stand of poppies observed within the
grZlbesit. UPPER WOOD CANYON, is the only section of Wood Canyon
9

where large oaks and sycamores grow out into the valley floor. Wood
Canyon then narrows down to a "T' shape and no longer has a valley
floor with grassland cover. Large oaks now fom a thick grove along
both sides of the stream and extend a short distance up the slope.

C. TOPOGRAPHY

The Aliso Greenbelt is located within the California coastal range.
The natural canyon relief ranges from an elevation of 201 above sea
level near the mouth of Aliso Canyon to an elevation of aver 9001 on
Niguel Hill and Moulton Meadows. Steep slopes, ridgelines,
watercourses and the dominant landforn-s of Sheep Hills and Niguel
Hill delineate the canyon boundaries within the open space area.

D. SURROUNDING USES

As southern Orange County continues to expand (Exhibit 2, Page 11),
the Aliso Viejo Planned Community to the north and east of the
greenbelt will eventually become a residential camiunity of 20,000
homes. The ridgelines along Wood and Corral Canyon will be developed
while the eastern slopes of the Greenbelt will act as a visual buffer
which will partially block the view to the housing above.

To the west is Ben Brown's Golf Course and Country Club and Aliso
Cre@=k Beach Park, a county operated facility. This 20.7 acre stretch
of shoreline at the mouth of Aliso Creek includes a fishing pier and
parking facilities that will act as a terminus'for a future shoreline
transit system.

To the east is the 154 acre Laguna Niguel Regional Park. It is
located along Sulphur Creek adjacent to La Paz Road. Park facilities
include a reservoir with supporting fishing activities, picnic areas,
and tennis-ccurts.

To the north of Laguna Niguel Park is the "Ziggurat" owned by Federal
Government General Services Agency. The federal building i:@@-
surrounded by a huge parking lot that is proposed for use as a
staging area and parking overflow for entry into the Aliso Greenbelt.

North of the federal building is the Nellie Gail Ranch. Since this is
an equestrian cammnity, equestrian trails will eventually make their
way to the Greenbelt through upper Aliso Creek valley and join
established trails in Aliso Creek Canyon.

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Plans for future developrrent of the South County area include a
linking of Aliso Viejo's Greenbelt Trail System to surrounding parks
and ccmmunities-in the region.

The Aliso Creek Corridor Specific Plan (Concept) shows equestrian and
bicycle trail connections from Laguna Niguel Regional Park to the
Crown Valley Community Park and Crown Valley Parkway/via Aliso Creek.

The Master Plan of Countrywide Bikeways shows a recreation oriented
bicycle trail on La Paz Road connecting with Moulton Parkway on the
north and Crown Valley Parkway on the south. The Regional bike trail
will then link with the Aliso Viejo Trails System. Thus, the Aliso
Viejo Trails System will serve as a major access point to the
extensive open space system making it possible to travel from the
oceans to the mountains(2) further enhancing the use of the
Greenbelt.

(2) Aliso Creek Forest To The Sea, U.C. Irvine Aliso Creek Study
Team, 1973.

3.2 BIOLOGICAL OVERVIEW

Within the "Sanger Report", two maps were prepared showing the
approximate location of each proposed picnic site, caupsite, hiking,
and equestrian/bike trail routes. To prepare the General Development
Plan, Lidyoff/Hourian used the Demonstration maps in the Sanger
Report, as a guideline to locate the following amenities:

- Overnight Canping Areas
- Day Use Picnic Areas
- Equestrian and Hiking Trails
- Bike Trails
- Alternative Ranger Residence Site with Nature
Interprative Area

Field observations were made with a biologist and county personnel,
to determine the validity of each site and trail route as proposed in
the Sanger Report.

Based on biological assessments, constraints and analysis,
development recommendations were made for: 1) six proposed picnic
areas, 2) two overnight campsites, 3) ranger residence site. and 4)
hiking/biking/equestian trails. An overall park habitat and
management plan for the maintenance and park operations were not part
of the criteria in the development of this report. However,
considerations were given to site specific biological habitats and
mitigating measures have been identified and proposed (3).

Biological assessments include inventories of flora (Exhibit 3, Page
15) and fauna species, present evaluation of each site's habitat
potential, spatial relation of proposed development areas to local or
regional wildlife pathways and description of approximate location of
tree specimens within or adjacent to each site or trail.

Biological constraints include possible impact on tree specimens
within or in the vicinity of recreational development sites,
potential disruption of wildlife habitats or dispersion corridors,
and disturbance or destruction of rare or endangered plant species
populations and sensitive vegetative communities.

After the biological information was interpreted, conflicts between
the proposed uses and endangered plant species were documented (3).
To mitigate environmental damage alternative sites were identified
and additional plantings of native material were proposed.

The two biologically sensitive areas were identified: Mallard Marsh
Picnic Site; and the Moulton Meadows Campground.

3. Biological/Assessment Aliso Viejo Greenbelt, Karlin Marsh,
July 19 81

The proposed picnic site at Mallard Marsh was relocated to a "less"
biological sensitive area, because the area is usually "wet". At the
request of Fish and Game Department, the group campground at Moulton
Meadows was omitted, because of a nearby deer fawning area. Hun-an
intrusion: To the area northerly, of Del Mar Avenue would impact and
disrupt the animal dispersion corridor.

The following map and charts delineate biological constraints and
mitigations for the individual campsites, picnic sites and trail
systems.(3) In the attached appendix, aerial photographs identify
plant material surrounding the proposed trails, caupsites and picnic
areas.

3. Biological/Assessment Aliso Viejo Greenbelt, Karlin Marsh, July
1981.

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A. PICNIC SITES BIOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MITIGATIONS

Equestrian Picnic Site Introduction of people will disturb Vegetative screening with sycamores
the nesting habitat of the Great and willow trees will be required to
Blue Heron and the Green Heron. screen the creek inhabitants from

visual disturbance.

Horseshoe Bend Picnic Site contains very minimal biological Planting of additional sycamores to
Site constraints, but area lacks shade for provide shade and cover. Rock rip-rap
picnic users. The stream changes should be installed to stablize stream

course which could destroy improve- course.

ments.

Mallard Marsh Due to close proximity of picnic*site Site was subsequently relocated to

.to Mallard Marsh the California Fish Cave Rock.

& Game Department requested the site
be moved becuase of probable biologi-

cal and ecological harm.

Cave Rock Picnic Site Stream channel in upper Cave Rock spur Fencing or signage should be placed along
has been downcut severely. Also oaks stream margin to prevent accidental falls,
with sensitive root systems loca- Information signage should be placed around
ted around the sandstone rock outcrop sensitive oak zone to bring awareness to
area. individuals using picnic sites.

A. PICNIC SITE BIOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MITIGATIONS

Mathis Canyon Root sensitive sycamore and oak x4ood- Additional stands of sycamore trees should
Picnic Site land area. Site situated in high fire be planted to provide variety of picnic

hazard zone. areas and to provide the landscape to re-

juvenate and allow airation of tree roots.

Upper Wood Canyon Sensitive songbird habi tat in trees At the recommendation of the Fish & Game
surrounding picnic site. Creek Department the picnic tables should be
margin adjacent to picnic site has located in the presence of a biologist
been downcut. Site situated in to minimize the impact on the avian habitat

high fire hazard zone. to the south. Fencing should be constructed

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B. CAMPSITES BIOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MITIGATIONS

Mathis Canyon Campsites The introduction of people will im- Provide vegetative screening of toyon
pact the nearby mule deer habitat between campsite and dispersion corridor.
and on-site dispersion trail. The This will permit nocturnal feeding of the

area along the toe of slope is a mule deer and will not interfere with the
seasonally wet meadow. During dispersion route. Plant additional sycamore
summer site is situated in high trees to provide shade and cover. To

fire hazard zone. lesson the hazards of fire, a Park Ranger

should remain on site, and a waterline

for fire fighting should be installed.

Wood Corral Canyon Minimal biological constraints Plant additional sycamore trees to provide
Campsite Site located in high fire hazard shade and cover. See above for reducing

area. fire hazards.

Moulton Meadows The Moulton Meadow Camp Site was omit-

ted after biological analysis deter-

mined that development would biologi-

cally harm endangered plant species,

and impact native wildflowers and

grasslands. This area was also found

to contain a mule deer,fawning habitat,

along the lower ridges. If development

is to occur, it is recommended that it

should be limited to an active inter-

pretation program to inform people of

the unique biotic resources, namely the
deer fawning habitat, and endangered

plant species.

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C. TRAILS BIOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MITIGATIONS

AWMA Road Bike Trail No biological constraints. Additional grading will be required in
some areas adjacent to Awma Road. See

engineered drawings.

Equestrian Trail No biological constraints. See drawings.

Wood Canyon Hiking Trail No biological constraints. Area near Upper Wood Canyon picnic site.
Sycamore stands need trimming of over-

kD hanging tree branches.

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D. RANGER RESIDENCE BIOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MITIGATIONS

Corral Canyon No biological constraints. None.

Wood/Mathis Canyon No biological constraints None,

Aliso/Wood Canyon Site is subject to sporadic swampy Slopeland environment ideal location for
conditions during rainy seasons. interpretive natural trail. Trail use
Rock outcrops behind the proposed should be limited or prohibited during
ranger residence are potential deer fawning season.

localities for two rare and en-

dangered plant species, Orange

County Turkish Rugging and Many-

stemmed Dudleya. No such remnants
were found but the possibility is

great that one or both are

present around some of the out-

crops. Slopeland is a deer rest-

ing-area.

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4.1 GENERAL DEVEIDPMENT PLAN

The concept for the General Development Plan of the Aliso Greenbelt
Public Facilities is based upon: 1) Sanger Report demonstration plan
maps provided by the California Coastal Conservancy, and 2)
Biological assessments and data. The greenbelt trail system is
intended to afford maximum public access within the greenbelt,
consistent with resource protection while maintaining high quality
diverse recreational experiences.

The greenbelt trai 1 system focuses on access to the greenbelt from
all surrounding communities and connections with regional trail
systems. Multiple recreational travel opportunities will be provided
(Exhibit 4, Page 24), including walking and hiking, bicycling,
horseback riding and recreational transit service. vehicular access
will be restricted to the minimum necessary for essential support of
proposed greenbelt use and management requirements. A public transit
system is proposed through the Aliso Creek Canyon corridor to the
coast to provide access to the coast and beach from inland
communities. Private vehicle use will be restricted to Aliso Creek
Beach Park and the eastern entrance at Alicia Parkway.

Due to the sensitive nature of the greenbelt environment, priority
has been given to habitat protection and enhancement. The greenbelt
shall be retained in its natural state in so far as feasible for park
users to experience a natural coastal canyon.

Low intensity, primarily passive usage, is proposed within the
scattered locations throughout Wood Canyon and lower Aliso Canyon
subunits.

Small day use picnic areas are sited in the following five locations;
three picnic areas in the Wood Canyon/Mathis Canyon area, a fourth
picnic site in upper Aliso Canyon, and the last site in lower Aliso
Canyon adjacent to Aliso, Creek. Access to the picnic sites will be
along the designated hiking/equestrian trails. The only exception, is
the lower Aliso Creek picnic site which is accessable by the proposed
shoreline transit and bicycle trail.

Two campsites are identified. one is a small (3-5 acre) site in
middle Wood Canyon, the second is a larger (15-20 acre) site to be
used as a group campsite, located in Mathis Canyon. The location of a
nearby ranger residence would monitor the activities and render
assistance to ensure the safety of campers and the greenloelt
environment.

Since many of the picnic/caupsites are located on grassland valley
floors, there is no shade cover. In accordance with the biological
recommendations, planting of native oaks and sycamores along with
toyon is proposed to provide shade and preserve the natural
environment with indigenous plants. The picnic and cairpsite
development are equal to the U.S. Forest Service Level II
classifications:

1 - Dry without water

2 - Portable toilets

3 - Picnic tables

4 - Fire pits

The following foldout map, delineates individual picnic and canpsite
locations, indicating the nurrber of tables per site, picnic/carrpsite
designations and landscape recammndations. Aerial photographs of
each site are included as an appendix to this report.

4.2 PICNIC SITES

A. EQUESTRIAN PICNIC SITE

Located on a level stream bench, near the north end of the greenbelt,
on the east bank of Aliso Creek. Access to the site is from the
designated equestrian trail. The site will have ten (10) picnic
tables (Figure 1), a horse watering trough with a hand operated pump
and a hitching post for securing horses (Figure 2). Adequate trash
storage container with lids shall be provided.

B. ALISO MEEK HORSESHOE BEND SITE

Located in lower Aliso Canyon, south of Horseshoe Bend. The site is
generally level and will be accessible by the proposed A.W.M.A.
transit system and bike trail. Ten (10) picnic tables will be
provided in addition to a 20 space bicycle rack (Figure 3). Adequate
trash storage containers with lids shall be provided.

C. CAVE ROCK SITE

Located on the west side of lowter Wood Canyon below mallard marsh,
this site is identified by a significant sandstone rock outcrop with
various sized caves. Five (5) picnic tables will be provided. Access
will be from the Wood Canyon Equestrian/Hiking Trail. Adequate trash
storage containers with lids shall be provided.

D. MATHIS CANYON GROUP PICNIC SITE

This picnic site is located on the level canyon floor in the vicinity
of the existing sycamore stand. Additional trees will be planted and
as they mature the ten (10) picnic tables will.be rotated
periodically to avoid overuse and allow the landscape to recover.
This site will be primarily group oriented and can acccmmdate
approximately sixty people. Adequate trash storage containers with
lids shall be provided.

E. UPPER WOOD CANYON

This site is the furthest north from the confluence of Aliso and wood
Canyon. The site is located on a level stream bench between the Wood
Canyon Equestrian/Hiking Trail'and the Creek. Ten (10) picnic tables
and a hitching post (Figure 2) will be located among the existing
sycamore stand. The picnic tables will be rotated on a periodic basis
to allow the landscape to recover and avoid compaction of soil around
the trees root systems. Adequate trash storage containers with lids
shall be provided. 25

4.3 CAMPSITES

A. MATHIS CANYON CAMPSITE

This group campsite is located on the north side of the canyon floor.
This fifteen acre site will have nine (9) group campsites each
accommodating approximately sixteen people. Each campsite (Figure 4)
will have a raised concrete fire enclosure for cooking and campfires
(Figure 5). Also four portable toilets will be located near the
Mathis Canyon trail adjacent to the campsite. Adequate trash storage
containers with lids shall be provided.

Since the campsite is located in a wildlife dispersion corridor a
vegetative screening of Toyon will be planted allowing animals to
pass into the canyon, behind the protective screening.

B. WOOD CANYON CAMPSITE

This campground site is located on a level stream bench at the IV'
shaped confluence of Wood and Corral Canyon. The four acre site will
acccmmodate five (5) campsites each having a raised concrete fire
enclosure (Figure 6). Additional Sycamore trees will be planted for
shade and cover. The site is accessible by the Wood Canyon,
Hiking/Equestrian Trail. Adequate trash storage containers with lids
shall be provided.

4.4 BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The plans show the proposed alignment of the Bikeway adjacent to the
existing AWMA access road. This Bikeway extends from Ben Brown's golf
course to Alicia Parkway. The engineered plans, in the attached
appendix, show the limits of grading required to construct the
bikeway, drainage, and other necessary ipprovemnts

The horizontal alignment of the proposed bikeway was checked for
conformance with design standards for stopping sight distance and
lateral clearance on horizontal curves as contained in the Planning
and Design Criteria for Bikeways in California. As proposed, the
bikeway has no horizontal line of sight limitations.

There are three areas; (refer to engineered drawings) fran station 28
+ 00 to 30 + 00, from station 31 + 00 to 33 + 00, and fran station 83
+ 15 to 85 + 00 where the cut slope ratio was increased to 1:1
maximum; and one area from station 9 + 50 to 12 + 99.82 where the cut
slope ratio was increased to 1/2:1 maximum. These ratios were
increased frorn the normal 1 1/2:1 maximum to limit the cut slope
height to 30 feet because cut slopes above 30 feet require benching
and special drainage considerations. It is recommended that when
final design begins on the bikeway, a geotec'hnical consultant be
retained to recamend a cut slope ratio that will be stable in these
areas or that some other solution be selected. During initial field

investigation of these areas, it was noticed that steeper slopes than
1 1/2:1 were cut at these areas when the access road for the coastal
treatment plant was inproved.

4.5 HIKING/EQUESTRIAN MAIL DESCRIPTION

The Sanger Report Demonstration Maps indicated the proposed location
of three (Phase V hiking/equestrian trails: ALISO CREEK TRAIL,
extends for 1.38 miles from Alicia Parkway to the confluence of Wood
and Aliso Canyon. WOOD CANYON TRAIL, extends 2.74 miles from the end
of the Aliso Creek Trail, northerly where it will terminate at the
Aliso Greenbelt and Dewitt property line. MATHIS CANYON TRAIL,
extends .47 miles northerly from the Wood Canyon trail to the Mathis
Canyon picnic and campground sites. A coordinate list of points
located in the field by surveyors is available for future references.
Those points are plotted on the plans and are indicated by a triangle
and number (refer to engineered drawings).

The hiking/equestrian trails will follow the existing farm roads and
cattle trails. The trails will be cleared of vegetation by a
caterpillar type tractor with a ten foot blade (figure 7). This will
allow equestrian riders and hikers anple room to pass one another.
Signage (fig.8) will be used to designate trail heads and indicate
picnic and campground locations. Since the Greenbelt will be
retained in a natural-like state, it is suggested that information
signage be provided at each park entry, acquainting visitors with the
various biological habitats.

Investigated, was the possibility of constructing a low flow concrete
dip crossing with culvert pipes to convey the dry weather flows where
the Aliso Creek Hiking/Equestrian Trail crosses Aliso Creek. The dry
weather flows are estimated to be in the range of 10 to 15 c.f.s. and
would only require two 24-inch culverts. The cost of the culvert
crossing wculd be in the range of $3,000 to $4,000.

The 100 year storm flow is 10,800 c.f.s. and a one year storm flow
would be approximately 4,100 c.f.s. Due to the large volume of water
generated by a minor storm, the stream bed of the creek wculd erode
around the culvert. Because of this, we do not recommend that a low
flow concrete dip crossing be constructed. Equestrian riders will
cross existing stream bed.

F I GURE I

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4.6 RANGER RESIDENCE

For greenbelt management and security, a resident ranger/manager is
proposed to be employed. The resident ranger will provide routine
maintenance, security, emergency assistance, control of greenbelt use
and public education.

The Aliso Greenbelt Ranger Residence is to be designed for living
quarters and office for one or two employees requiring at least 700
sq. ft. Except for requesting information and emergencies, the
residence is to be for management/enployee personnel use only and no
considerations made for public use.

To ccapare the alternative structures available for this type of usel
four types of construction systems and seven ccaparison elements have
been considered. The construction systems represented in this study
are: 1) mobile home, 2) modular home, 3) prefabricated units, and 4)
custom design and construction. The ccmparison criteria include: 1)
initial cost, 2) maintenance, 3) durability, 4) liveability, 5)
flexibility, 6) expandability, and 7) coapatibility with the park
environment. For ease of comparison the evaluation is presented as a
chart on the following pages. Additional explanations of the rating
evaluations are presented on subsequent pages. Data for this
conparison was obtained from the following sources:

1. Mobile home
A. ECS Howes, Inc., Fountain Valley

B. Roll-Away Mobile Howes, Torrance

2. modular home
A. ICS Homes, Inc., Fountain Valley

B. Enterprise Management and Development,
Newport Beach

3. Prefabricated units
A. Model Iog Hmies, Wrightwood

4. Custom design and construction
A. Prevailing area experience

It should be noted that ICS can construct both a mobile and modul ar
unit, the difference being the type of construction and finishes (see
page 44) and in addition, the alternate 3 and 4 plan can be a
prefabricated unit (log cabin) or a custom designed unit.

on the basis of appearance and budget, Lidyoff/Hourian recamiands
that a modular unit be designed and constructed for the following
reasons:

1. The structure is portable and can be relocated.
2. Interior floor plan is flexible.
3. Exterior finishes and elevation treatment would have
a "custom" appearance.

Exhibit (5) Page 38 shows a typical floor plan for the modular and
custom units.

It is our reccumndation that a day use ranger station and
informational station be established at the confluence of Aliso and
Wood Canyon to greet visitors and monitor greenbelt activities. The
ranger residence should remain in the general location of upper Wood
Canyon to monitor night activities at the nearby campsites. This
site is an excellent location for a command post in case of fire, see
4.8, Fire Protection Considerations.

Final determination to the actual location of the ranger residence
will be made by the Orange County Environmental Management Agency,
giving consideration to the following:

1. Staffing requirements.
2. Operation and maintenance of the greenbelt.
3. Requirements for energency evacuation.
4. Long terms vs. short term in relation to the
utilization of a structure type.
5. Corporation yard and equipment storage areas.
6. Capital expenditure budget for improvement.

Exhibit (6) Page 39 delineates the relationship of each proposed
Ranger Residence site to the Greenbelt use areas.

C F Z B A
F-T7 I

ry
C D 7

MOBILE/MODULAR PLAN (1 114 s.f.)
1'/ 8ff i I-on.
-LEGEND

A. KITCHEN
1 00 00 00 A B. DINING
1C L -C 13- EDROOM.
D.. OFFICE
B E. DESK
D F. BATH
uu

CUST O'M/PREFAB PLAN (750 s.f
1/8 1I-oil' EXHIBIT 5 3R

S It WOOD CANYON

0 RAL CANYON SITE
MATHIS CAN[ON MdHIS/WOOD CANYON SITE
MALLARD MARSH.
.%

LOWER CANYON PARK
WT' ENTRY

ALISO/WOOD
--[CANYON S I TE3.

JSO CREEK CANYON

PICNIC SITES
CAMPSITES
0 RANGER RESIDENCE

BIKE TRAIL
HIKING/EQUESTRIAN

EXHIBIT6

4*11 RANGER RESIDENCE SITE DESCRIPTIONS

In the early planning stages of the General Developmnt Plan,
alternate sites (2) and (3) were suggested as feasible in addition to
the proposed Ranger Residence site (1) located in Corral Canyon as
proposed in the Sanger Report. The final decision as to the location
of the Ranger Residence will be determined by the County of Orange,
EMA. Refer to Exhibit 6, Page 39 for site locations.

Following, are the evaluations of each site:

A. CORRAL CANYON SITE (SITE 1)

This site is located on level ground at the confluence of Corral and
Wood Canyon. Directly across from the residence is the Wood Canyon
campground and hiking/equestrian trail.

Siting the ranger residence at the mouth of Corral Canyon would be
advantageous for the following reasons:

1. Previous reports on wells in the area indicate
good drinking water would be available from a drilled
well in the invediate vicinity. (4)

2. The location of nearby 66 KV transmission lines would
minimize cost to deliver pouer to the residence. Step
domi transformers can be installed once the powar reaches
the site.

3. It would allow for supervision of upper Wood Canyon,
and in the event of an emergency an attending ranger
would be able to assist.

Disadvantages associated with the Corral Canyon ranger residence
site:

1. This site has limited viewing distance-for monitoring
activities in louer Wood Canyon, adjoining Mathis
Canyon, and Aliso Canyon.

2. Vehicular access to the site would be difficult
during the rainy season.

(4) ALISO VIEJO FINAL E.I.R. VOL II JACK G. RAUB CO.

B. MATHIS/WOOD CANYON SITE (SITE 2)

Located on a slightly elevated terrace along the east side of the
Wood Canyon Hiking/Equestrian Trail, this site is located directly
opposite the Mathis Canyon/Wood Canyon confluence. Advantages for
locating the residence at this site are as follows:

1. Provides for supervision of the Mathis Canyon/Wood Canyon
picnic and canpsites, due to overall peripheral view.

2. The resident ranger could monitor the amount of people
entering and exiting the upper canyon areas.

3. The location of nearby transmission lines to deliver
power to the site would be moderate in cost.

4. Reports on wells in the area indicate that good
drinking water would be available fran a drilled
well in the immediate vicinity. (4)

Disadvantages associated with-thissite:

1. Vehicular access to the site would be difficult
during the rainy season.

C. ALISOMOOD CANYON SITE (SITE 3)

The ranger residence site is located at the confluence of Wood and
Aliso Canyon along the west side of wood Canyon, opposite the
Hiking/Equestrian Trail. Advantages for locating the facilities at
the confluence are as follows:

1. It would allow greater public accessability to
informational and interpretive services by
greenbelt personnel.

2. This site is more centrally located to provide
supervision for recreational activities in both
Wood Canyon and Aliso Creek Canyon.

3. It would permit supervised access and control in the use
of Upper Wood Canyon; i.e. Wood Canyon above the ranger
residence could be closed during the high fire hazard
season, etc.

(4) ALISO VIEJO FINAL E.I.R. V01 II. JACK G. RAUB CO.

Disadvantages of siting the facilities at this-location include the
following:

1. Supervision and assistance in the event of an emergency
could not be provided quickly due to the distance between
ranger residence and upper canyon facilities.

2. Infrastructure (utilities) would not be as readily available
on the short term (prior to the Aliso Viejo buildcut) as it
would in the upper canyon sites.

3. Because of the proximity of Aliso Creek, the ground
water is highly mineralized and not suitable for
drinking, therefore portable water would have to be
trucked in periodically. (4)

(4) ALISO VIF.JO FINAL EIR voL II JACK G. RAUB CO.

COWARISON CHART ALISO VIWO RANGER RESIDENCE

ALISO VIEJO, COUNTY OF ORANGE, CALIFORNIA

Square footage 1114 1114 750 750

MOBILE MODULAR PREFABRICATED CUSTOM
HOME HOME (Log Cabin)
----------

*INITIAL COST $32,000 - $41,000 $33,000 - $40,000 -
$38,000 $38,000 $60,000

MAINTENANCE GOOD GOOD EXCELLENT VARIABLE

DURABILTY FAIR TO GOOD GOOD EXCELLENT GOOD

LIVABILITY GOOD GOOD GOOD GOOD TO
EXCELLENT

FLEXIBILITY GOOD GOOD GOOD GOOD

EXPANDIBILITY GOOD GOOD GOOD GOOD TO
EXCELLENT

COWATIBILITY FAIR FAIR TO EXCELLENT EXCELT
WITH PARK GOOD
ENVMNMENTS

*The above costs do not include-site preparation which can vary fran
$5,000 to $10,000 depending on the design criteria and site location.

RANGER RESIDENCE

STRUCTURE CaVARISONS

Alternate 1 Alternate 2 Alternate 3 Alternate 4
Mobile Modular Prefab Custom

EXTERIOR FINISHES

Masonite siding X X
Wood logs X
Wood siding X
Exterior plaster X

ROOFING

Asphalt shingle X X
Built-up membrane X(3)
Wood shingles X(4) X(3,4)
Fiberglass shingles W)

FLOOR CONSTRUCTION

Particle board X
Plywood sheathing X X(l) X(l)
Concrete slab X(l) X(l)

WALL CONSTRUCITON

Wood frame(2 x studs) X X X
Wood logs, cured X

ROOF CONSTRUCTION

wood trusses X X
Wood frame X X
(2 x joists/rafters)-

REMARKS

(1) Dependent on site conditions.
(2) Per local building code.
(3) Dependent on design parameters.
(4) Fire-retardent qualities, dependent on local codes, and
ordinances.

RANGER RESIDENCE

STRUCTURE CCMPARISONS

Alternate 1 Alternate 2 Alternate 3 Alternate 4
Mobile Modular Prefab Custom

PLUMBING

Plastic pi-ping x
Metal and plastic X(2) X(2) X(2).
piping

ELECTRICAL

Aluminum wiring x
Copper wiring X(2) X(2) X(2)

INTERIOR FINISHES

Carpet/vinyl flooring X x x
Vinyl wallcovering x x
Painted wallboard x x x
Wood logs, stained x

INTERIOR PARTITIONS

All non-structural x x x
Structural/non- X(3)
structural

REMARKS

(1) Dependent on site conditions.
(2) Per local building code.
(3) Dependent on design parameters.
(4) Fire-retardent qualities, dependent on local codes, and
ordinances.

4.7 UTILITY REQUIRaENTS

During the initial development of the Trail Systems, infrastructure
would not be as readily available on the short term, prior to the
Aliso Viejo Community buildout. The cost of utilities on site will be
limited just to the ranger residence. A 66KV transmission line is
located about one mile north of Corral Canyon and a temporary pole
line could be constructed to bring power to the ranger residence. If
costs prohibit the construction of a pole line, an alternate source
of electricity could ccmie from a gasoline or propane powered
generator-until a more permanent source of power is installed. In
addition, each residence site is in a desirable location to inplezent
solar collectors.

As housing development nears the greenbelt, lowlear costs to import
utilities way make it desirable to bring infrastructure to the
campground and picnic areas as part of an additional phase in the
Aliso Greenbelt Development.

4.8 FIRE PROTECTION CONSIDERATIONS

Since the Aliso Viejo Greenbelt will remain in it's natural
vegetative state, special fire considerations will be required.
After discussions with the Orange County Fire Department regarding
methods of response in case of a fire within the natural terrain, the
following guidelines were proposed:

1. In the event of a fire, the ranger residence would act as a
Fire Command Post.

2. Fire Tenders would take on water at the AIVM Plant and return
to the confluence of Aliso and Wood Canyon to refill smaller
4WD firefighting vehicles. If a fire broke out north of
Mallard Marsh, it would be doubtful that vehicles filled
with water would be able-to negotiate the marshland area.
Alternative firefighting accesses to the canyons north of
Mallard Marsh would be required. Access locations would
depend on the degree and the location of the fire.

[PLAN BuDeEv

RECAP

PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE

I. AWMA, Bike Trail (3.36 miles) .................. $ 215,300
Ii. Equestrian Trail (4.04 miles) .................$ 5,600
III. Caup (14 sites) and Picnic Sites (45 sites) ...$ 65,800

TOTAL $ 286,700

Ranger Residence Structure Utilities Total Dollars

Alternate 1 (1114 SF) $38,500 $27,500 to $39,500 $66,000 to $78,000

Alternate 2 (1114 SF) $41,000 $27,500 to $39,500 $68,500 to $80,500

Alternate 3 (750 SF) $38,000 $27,500 to $39,500 $65,500 to $77,500

Alternate 4 (750 SF) $60,00 0 $27,500 to $39,500 $87,500 to $99,500

Building Site Preparation $ 5,000 to $10,000

PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE

PICNIC AND OVERNIGHT CAMP AREAS

MATHIS CANYON (GROUP PICNIC AND CAMPING)

1. Pad preparation/clearing Allow $ 5,000
2. Picnic tables 37 @ $400.00 14,800
3. Portable toilets 4 2,000
*4. Portable water (4 Hosebibbs) Allow 5,000
5. Firepits 9 @ $500.00 4,500
$31,300.00

Ii. WOOD CANYON CAMPSITE

1. Pad preparation Allow $ 2,000
2. Picnic tables 5 @ $400.00 2,000
*3. Portable water Allow 2,000
4. Firepits 5 @ $300.00 1,500
$ 7,500.00

*Assume well site at Corral Canyon.

III. UPPER WOOD CANYON PICNIC SITE

1. Pad preparation/clearing Allow $ 2,000
2. Picnic tables 10 @ $400.00 $ 4,000
$ 6,000.00

IV. EQUESTRIAN PICNIC SITE
1. Pad preparation/clearing Allow $ 3,000
2. Water trough and hand operated
PUMP Allow 5,000
3. Picnic tables 10 @ $400.00 4,000.
$12,000.00

V. HORSESHOE BEND PICNIC SITE

1. Pad preparation/clearing Allow $ 1,000
2. Picnic tables 10 @ $400.00- 4,000
3. Bike racks (20 spaces) Allow 1,000 $ 6,000.00

Vi. CAVE ROCK PICNIC SITE

1. Pad preparation/clearing Allow $ 1,000
2. Picnic tables 5 @ $400.00 2,000 $ 3,000.00

TOTAL $65,800.00

PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE

AWMA ACCESS ROAD BIKEWAY
August 19, 1981

Quantity Unit Cost Total
1. Roadway Excavation
(Includes 800 C.Y. 14,200 C.Y. @ $ 4.00 $ 56,800
Embankment

2. 3" Asphalt Concrete 139,900 S.F. @ .70 97,930
(including fine grade)
3. 6" Solid White 17,740 L.F. @ 0.05 887
Pain Stripe
4. 48" CSP (Corrugated 4 L.F. @ 100.00 400
Steel Pipe)

5. 4211 CSP 12 L.F. @ 95-00 i,i4o

6. 12" CSP 58 L.F. @ 50-00 2,900

7. 5811 x 36" CSPA
(Corrugated Steel 14 L.F. @ 120.00 1,68o
Pipe Arch)

8. 50" x 31" CSPA 12 L.F. @ 110.00 1,320

9. 43 11 x 27" CSPA 60 L.F. @ 100.00 6,000

10. 29" x 18" CSPA 6 L.F. @ 75-00 450

11. Extend Cattleguard 8' 4 ea. @ 2,500-00 10,000
12. 22' Wide x 5' High Chain 1 ea. @ 500-00 500
Link Double Gate

13. 32' Wide x 5' High Chain 2 ea. @ 750-00 1,500
Link Gate

14. Relocate Barbed Wire 1,140 L.F. @ 5.00 5,700
Fence

15. Contingency 15% 28,100

TOTAL ESTIMATED COST $215,307

PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE

RANGER RESIDENCE UTILITIES

TOTAL COST AT ALTERNATE SITES

Unit Corral Alternate Alternate
Unit Cost &1yori) Site 2 Site 3
S1 e

1. Domestic water well I EA 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000
2. Electrical service 4,000 LF 4.50 18,000 18,ooo
***3. Septic & leach sewage
disposal system 1 EA ALLOW 5,000 5,000 5,000
4. Water distribution (Domestic) ALLOW 2,000 2,000 2,000**
5. Electrical distribution 200 LF ALLOW 500 500 500
6. Propane tank and distribution ALLOW 4,000 4,000 4,000

Alternate Energy 1 EA 6,ooo
(Portable generator)
TOTAL 39,500 39,500 27,500

Propane operated generator (5 kw, 10 hp). Fuel consumption is approximately 1-1/2
gallons per hour. Power would be used to generate electricity for night lights.

Potable water would need to be trucked in because well water in the immediate vi-
cinity is too high in "total desolved salts" for human consumption.

A more accurate estimate can be made if percolation tests were pe rformed to deter-
mine exact length of leach line.

See Exhibit 6, Page 39 for site locations.

B L I nn,, In-- R-J]

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. California Coastal Commission / State Coastal Conservancy
Joint Staff Report. Standards and Recommendations for
Coastal Access., Vol. 3, No. 6. October / November, 1980.

2. Lancj and Wood Landscape Architects. Laguna Niguel Regional
Park (Phase 11 Improvements), 1978.

3. Marsh, Karlin G. Biological Assessment Aliso Viejo Green-
belt Improvements, Trails, Picnic and Campsites, Ranger
Residence, 19.81.

4. Marsh, Karlin G. Aliso Viejo Addendum to Biological Assess-
men t , 198 1

5. Orange County Environmental Agency. Ali-so Creek Specific
Plan (Concept), Santa, 1977.

6. Orange County Environmental Agency. Design Criteria and
Guidelines for Orande County Bikeways, Santa Ana, 1977.

7. Raub, Jack G. Company. Aliso Viejo Final E.I.R. No. 088,
Volume 11, 1979.

8. Raub, Jack G. Company. Archaelogical Report, Vol. 1, 1978.

9. Sanger, John M., Associates, Inc. Aliso Greenbelt Manage-
ment. Program, 1979.

10. State Coastal Conservancy. Aliso Watershed, File No.: 78-
47, 1979.

11. U.C. lrvine:Aliso Creek Study Team. Aliso Creek-Forest to the Sea,
Irvine, 1973.

Lidyoff/Hourian would like to thank the following for their help An
developing this report.

CALIFORNIA STATE COASTAL CONSERVANCY
CCUNTY OF ORANGE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AGENCY
COUNTY OF ORANGE OPEN SPACE RECREATION
JACK G. RAUB CO.
KARLIN MARSH, BIOIDGIST
LEDERM[ANN & ASSOC., ARCHITECT
MISSION VIEJO CO.
SHALIDR & LOHR, CIVIL ENGINEERS

BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS

ALISO VIEJO PUBLIC FACILITIES

BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

REPORT

PREPARED FOR

LIDYOFF/HOURIAN
Landscape Architecture and Planning
777 South Main Strbet, Suite 170
Orange., California 92668

KARLIN MARSH
Biological Consultant

September 1981

tliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...............

lol PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF STUDY .....
1.2 PHYSICAL SETTING; REGIONAL AESTHETICS 2
1.3 METHODS 2

2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION, CONSTRAINTS ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION
RECOMMENDATIONS 4

2.1 PICNIC SITES ............ 4
2.1.1 Equestrian Picnic Area, Aliso Creek ...... 4
2.1.2 Aliso Creek Big Bend ..................... 7
2.1.3 Dripping Cave Canyon - Mallard Marsh .. .. 11
2.1.4 Mathis Canyon ......................... :.. 17
2.1.5 Upper Wood Canyon 21

2.2 CAMP SITES .. * ..... 25
2o2.1 Mathis 000000 25
2.2.2 Wood-Corral Canyon Confluence ............ 28
2.2.3 Moulton Meadows 30

2.3 RANGER RESIDENCE 35

2.4 TRAILS ....... 36
2.4.1 AWMA Road .... 36
2.4.2 Aliso Creek Equestrian Trail ............. 39
2o4.3 Wood Canyon Trail and North Link ......... 41

3.0 REFERENCES CITED .. .......... 42

4.0 FLORA AND FAUNA SPECIES INVENTORY ........... 44
4*1 FLORA 44
4.2 FAUNA .................... 67

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF STUDY

This report contains biological assessments, constraints, analyses

and development recommendations for six proposed picnic areas, two

overnight campsites, one day-camp site, a ranger residence and three

trails within the Aliso Viejo Planned Community Greenbelt.

Biological assessments include inventories of flora and fauna

species present evaluation of each site's habitat potential, spatial

relation of proposed development areas to local or regional wildlife

pathways and description- of approximate location of tree specimens

within or adjacent to each site or trail.

Biological constraints considered include possible impact on tree

specimens within or in the vicinity of recreational development sites,

potential disruption of wildlife habitats or dispersion corridors, and

disturbance or destruction of disjunct, rare or endangered plant species

populations and sensitive vegetational communities.

Hydrological constraints are also considered. These include active

meander erosion, which.. may potentially impact trails or recreation

sites, stream bank undercutting and sloughing in the vicinity of
facilities and recreation sites-located in areas found to be seasonally

marshy.

Safety constraints considered include the location of recreational

facilities in high fire hazard areas or near dangerously steep and/or

undercut stream terrace edges.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 2

1.2 PHYSICAL SETTING; REGIONAL AESTHETICS
The A liso Viejo Greenbelt is located south and west of' the Aliso

Viejo Planned Community, in Township 7 South Range 8 west of the San

Juan Capistrand and Laguna Beach 7.5 min. U.S.G.S. Quadrangles, orange

County, California.

The bulk of the greenbelt lies within the Aliso Creek watershed,

which includes, in addition to this stream, Wood Canyon and its

tributaries, Mathis@ Canyon and Corral Canyon. A very minor portion of

the greenbelt is within the Bluebird Canyon watershed.

The visual setting of the greenbelt is dominated by the expansive

grassy Aliso Creek Valley, the narrower, forested and brushy setting of

Wood Canyon, and flanking uplands, including the Sheep Hills which

separates the two drainages, Niguel Hill to the east and the Moulton

Meadows-Top of the World ridgeline to the west. Among the visual

resources of the site are areas of exposed rock formations, particularly

within the Wood Canyon watershed and on the western slopeland above

lower Aliso Creek. outstanding views of the greenbelt are provided from

its Moulton Meadows ridgeline area. The greenbelt is also visible from

the ridge of the Sheep Hills, from Aliso Peak and from development areas

on ridgelines to the east and west.

1.3 METHODS

On July 8, 9, 10 and 16, 1981, approximately 36 hours were spent

conducting field surveys of the proposed camping, picnic, residence and

trail facilities within the -Aliso Viejo Greenbelt. The author was

assisted by Gordon A. Marsh, Director, Museum of Systematic Biology,

U.C. Irvine; by Bruce Cashen, Urban Planner, Jack G. Raub Company and by

1A very small portion at the mouth of Aliso Creek is located in town-
ship 8 S.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 3

Phillip Vander Toolen, Project Manager, Liddyhoff-Hurian.

All proposed recreational facilities enumerated above were subject

to walkover survey. Adjacent secondary impact areas were also surveyed.

Biotic communities, the approximate location of tree specimens and of

disjunct, rare or endangered plant species populations and wildlife

habitats and corridors in the immediate vicinity of each facility were

mapped in the field. This information was integrated with regional

mapping, prepared from 800 scale and 2,000 scale color aerials provided

by Jack G. Raub Co. All plant and animal species detected during field

surveys were inventoried. Secretive, nocturnal or seasonal fauna not

detected are included in the species list if they are known from similar

appropriate habitats in the coastal Orange County region-or are reported

by England and Nelson, 1977.

It must be emphasized that the field surveys and following report

examine only those lands included within the boundaries of Aliso Viejo.

Certain parcels under separate ownership which contain connector road or

track routes have not been surveyed and were not included within the

scope of work.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 4

2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION, CONSTRAINTS ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION RECOMMENDATIONS

2.1 PICNIC SITES

2.1.1 Equestrian Picnic Area, Aliso Creek

The equestrian use picnic area is located near the north east end

of the greenbelt, on the east bank of Aliso Creek. The site is located

on a level stream bench vegetated by a mix of disturbed, introduced

grassland and successional, disturbed coastal sage scrub. The area is

presently used as grazing land for cattle. Access to the site is

available from a farm road on the east terrace of Aliso Creek; this

pathway is the designated location of an equestrian trail. A proposed

equestrian staging area is located on the west bank of the creek a short

distance to the north. Prevailing on-shore winds should ameliorate

odors generated by this equestrian facility by drawing them away from

the picnic area.

Flora

Flora of the stream bench at the proposed picnic site consists

mainly of the following species:

coastal goldenbush (Haplopappus venetus)

grasses, such as ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus), soft chess (B.

mollis) foxtail (Hordeum leporinum) and-wild rye (Lolium

multiflorum ssp. perenne).

ruderals such as summer mustard (Brassica geniculat.a)i telegraph weed

(Heterotheca grandiflora), black mustard (B. nigra), bur clover

(Medicago hispida), white stemmed filaree (Erodium moschatum) dove

weed (Eremocarpus setigerus) and others.

The shores of Aliso Creek to the east contain sandy "beach" areas

presently vegetated by such species as tree tobacco (Nicotiana

glauca)l castor bean (Ricinus communis), grant reed (Arundo

donax), tall stephenomeria (Stephenomeria exigua), prickly ragweed

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 5

(Ambrosia acanthicarpa), wild gourd (Curcubita foetidissima),

Mexican tea (Chenopodium ambrosioides lamb's quarter (C.

album), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), etc.

Creek bank areas are not wooded in the vicinity of the picnic area,

though a dense stand of willows (Salix spp.) is located upstream, in

the vicinity of the equestrian staging area, and a stand of Mexican

elderberry (Sambucus mexicana) and some willows and mulefat

(Baccharis glutinosa) grows a short distance downstream. The open

creek banks near the picnic area contain saltgrass (Distichlis

spicata) and yerba mansa (Anemopsis californica), both

s
alinity/alkalinity indicator species. Inte rmixed with these dominants

are such herbs as alkali heliotrope (Heliotropium--curassavicum),

western ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), common cocklebur

(Xanthium strumarium), white sweetclover (Melilotus albus),

bristly oxtongue (Picris echioides), curley dock (Rumey crispus)

and wild radish (Raphanus sativus). The moist stream margin

contains in addition, celery (Apium graveolens), spear orache

(Atriplex patula var, hastata), mayweed (anthemis cotula)

Spanish sunflower (Pulicaria hispanica) brass buttons (Cotula

coronopifolia). Rabbitsfoot grass (Polypagon monospeliensis),

scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) and fluellin (Kicksia elatine).

Most of the creek channel is overgrown with Olney's bulrush

(Scirpus olneyi). Minor amounts of willowweed (Polygonum

lapathifolium) and watercress (Rorippa nasturtium-aguaticum),

also occur in the channel. An attractive small waterfall is located a

short distance downstream from the picnic area.

Aliso viejo Greenbelt Biology 6

Faunal

The most significant fauna -inhabiting the area are two species of

heron, the great blue, National Audubon Blue-Listed species (Tate,

1981), and the green. Several individuals of each species were observed

flying along the creek from the upstream willow grove to the downstream

elderberries. Their principal roost area appears to be in the willows.
The herons hunt the creek for' frogs and other aquatic fauna. Both

bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) and Pacific tree frogs (Hyla

regilla) were observed in the reach.

A large coyote (Canis latrans) den was found on the creek bank.

other mammals detected include pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae) and

Audubon cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus audubonii). The grassy creek

margin should be an excellent habit for harvest mice (Reithrodontomys

megalotis). Some ground squirrels (Citellus beecheyi) and

black-tailed hares (Lepus californicus) probably pass through the

upland, and raccoons (Procyon lotot) and possibly masked weasels

(Mustelea frenata) hunt along the creek edge.

Beside the herons, birds seen on the site include meadowlarks,

mockingbirds, house finches, song sparrows, cliff swallows, Annals

hummingbirds and, near the elderberry stand, a*red-shouldered hawk. The

latter species is Blue-Listed by the National Audubon Society and

forages principally on smaller birds.

1 Because bird species are well-known to most readers, scientific names
are not given in text. They are listed in the Fauna Species List (sec-
tion 3).

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 7

Constraints

The principal biological impact predicted by picnic ground

construction and use will be disturbance of the great blue and green

herons foraging along the creek and resting in the willow grove

upstream. Construction of the equestrian staging area in the vicinity

of the grove would, of course, have a major impact on its future

potential as a resting place or potential nesting site.

An additional impact predicted is the disturbance of stream bank

and margin vegetation and habitat by equestrian and pedestrian

trampling.

Mi tigations

Human use and the continuance of inhabitation of the area by herons

(and hawks) may be incompatible. However, a vegetative -screen of

California sycamore (Platanus racemo sa),, willows (Salix

lasiolepis, S. gooddingii) and other native riparian trees and

shrubs would protect the creek inhabitants from visual disturbance

within the picnic ground above, and provide a visual amenity presently

lacking on the site. An equestrian pathway should be established across

the creek if the staging area is-located on the other side. Equestrian

incursion should be prohibited from the remainder of the riparian zone.

Foot trails should be established to allow enjoyment of amenities such

as the sand beach and waterfalls along the stream course, and signing

placed in other areas to discourage off-trail trampling.

2.1.2 Aliso Creek Big Bend

This lower Aliso Creek picnic site is actually located one full

meander south of Big Bend. The site is generally level. Its southern

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 8

portion contains imported fill. An attractive sandy beach is located

along the south shore of th e meander-outlined terrance.

Flora

About half of the s.ite contains coastal goldenbush scrub,

indicating a high subsurface water table regimen suitable for

maintenance of planted sycamore trees. The goldenbush scrub zone lies

in the north and east portions of the site. Associated species within

the goldenbush scrub are summer mustard, common cocklebur, ripgut brome

(Bromus diandrus), soft chess, windmill pink' (Silene gallica),

bur clover, western ragweed, common wild oats (Avena fatua) and

saltgrass.

The southern and western portions of the picnic site contain a

disturbed ruderal-dominated vegetative association. outside of the fill

zone, summer mustard in the most common plant species, occuring along

wih the Eurasian grasses enumerated above and with London rocket

(Sisymbrium. irio), wild gourd and doveweed. The fill zone contains

a variety of herbs and numbers of tree tobacco seedlings. Jimson weed

(Datura meteloides), nightshade (Solanium sp), telegraph weed,

Russian thistle (Salsola iberica), prostrate tumbleweed

(Amaranthus blitoides), cheeseweed (Malva parviflora), milk

thistle (Silybum marianum), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and

foxtail fiscus (Fescue megalura) are among the herbs, weeds and

grasses found on the fill.

East of the level picnic site is the meandering channel of Aliso

Creek. On the stream terrace edge above the creek are a line of mulefat

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 9

shrubs which extend along the northern two thirds of the meander.

Between the terrace edge and the wet stream margin is a saline-alkaline

zone dominated by yerba mansa and salt grass. White sweet clover,

western ragweed, common cocklebur, birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus

crassifolius), grant rye (Elymus condensatus), Spanish sunflower,

bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare), Mexican tea, mayweed, curly dock,

mugwort and creek nettles (Urtica holosericea) are other plants

occuring in the riparian zone, particularly southward beyond the line of

mulefat shrubs. Stunted, cropped individuals of willow shrubs are of

occasional occurrence.

The water-edge wet zone is vegetated by knotgrass (Paspalum

distichum), Olney's bulrush, celery, rabbitsfoot grass, kikuyu grass

(Pennisetum clandestinum), watercress and cattails. Hornwort

(Ceratophyllum demersum) and algae species occur in the creek itself.

Fauna

Ground squirrel den holes are abundant in the disturbed ruderal

area of the site. Harvest mice probably.occupy goldenbus.h scrub and

mulefat brush habitats. Aud ubon's cottontails were seen near the

property and are undoubtedly common here. Raccoons and.po.ssible masked,

weasels and other mammals probably frequent the stream edge habitat,

though tracks were obliterated by cattle. Birds seen during the brief

field survey include house finches, song sparrows and a black phoebe.

other kinds, particularly shore birds such as killdeers, are expected.

In the general vicinity, loggerhead shrikes, roadrunners, mourning

doves, bushtits and brown towhees were observed, The expansive lower

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 10

Aliso Creek Valley also harbors ravens, red-tailed hawks and at least

one (immature) golden eagle.

A western rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis helleri) was observed

on or near the project site during a previous survey. other reptiles

expected include western fence lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis) and

sideblotch lizards (Uta stansburiana). The skin of a common

kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus) was found in goldenbush scrub on

the big bend meander, immediately to the north, and the species

undoubtedly occurs here also. Western tree frogs are expected to

inhabit the aquatic edge environment.

Constraints

The site has minimal biological constraints. The most sensitive

areas are the mulefat and yerba mansa-saltgrass zones along the riparian

edge. Neither of these is unique to the site. A health constraint

exists due to the location on the site, of an attractive sandy beach

adjacent to a creek which may not contain water of adequate quality for

bathing or wading. While the creek was...very shallow during the

midsummer survey period, dangerous quicksand bars could conceivably

exist along its broad course in the vicinity of the beach.

Mitigations

Several trails could be established to -the creek edge in the

mulefat and yerba mansa saltgrass zones, and off trail trampling

discouraged by signing.

With respect to use of the beach and the recreational amenity of

the creek, the County or its designee has several options. Questions to

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

be answered include the following.

is the quality of water adequate for wading or bathing?

Is the creek in the vicinity of the beach free from quicksand
bars or other safety hazards? Do such hazards occur upstream
or downstream?

If water quality and streambed conditions warrant supervised or

unsupervised wading or bathing activities may or may not be appropriate,

based on legal liability of the picnic ground operator. If for any

reason the creek is found to be unsuitable for water contact activities,

signing and supervision of the site will be necessary, as the area is an

attractive locale for such use.

2.1.3 Dripping Cave Canyon - Mallard Marsh -

This picnic area is located on the floor of Dripping Cave Canyon, a

lateral of Wood Canyon, above its confluence, at Mallard Marsh. The

headwater of this drainage is located near-the margin of Top of the

World. Upstream from the picnic area, the canyon contains heavy

chaparral brush and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) woodland

along wih many rock outcrops and a grotto called Dripping springs Cave.

Flora

The site of the picnic area is fairly level and contains a dense

growth of costal goldenbush scrub, indicating that a fairly shallow

water table is- present. Intermixed wih the scrub are grassy-patches

vegetated by ripgut brome, soft chess, western ragweed, summer mustard,

black mustard, slender wild oats (Avena barbata), telegraph weed,

horehound (Marrubrum vulgare) and California cudweed (Qnaphalium

californicum).

The slope south of the canyon bottom contains a grassland dominated

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 12

by wild oats (Avena ssp). The slope to'the north contains coastal

sage scrub. This community is a mosaic of nonwoody shrubs such as

California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), black sage (Salvia

mellifera) white sage (S. apiana - mostly at the margin between

canyon bottom and slope), California buckwheat (Eriogonum

fasciculatum), deerweed (Lotus scoparius) and chaparral bedstraw

(Galium angustifolium). Also found here are two cacti, coast cholla

(Opuntia prolifera) and western prickly pear (0. "occidentalis"

hybrid) and woody shrubs such as toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia),

lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma

laurina) and Mexican elderberry.

Several coast live oaks are distributed on the margins of the

picnic area. Two are in the lower drainage bottom,, two on the south

slope and one on the north slope. Several oaks in the narrow draw above

are visible from the lower floor.

The upper part of the drainage course in the picnic area is deeply

incised, and contains flanking arroyo willows (Salix lasiolepis),

coastal sage scrub elements, blackberry vines (Rubus ursinus) and

spike rushes (Eleocharis cf. montevidensis) in the bottom.

As the canyon above the picnic site narrows, it becomes

increasingly rugged, with many large rock outcrops and a cave. Some of

the outcrops contain at their margins, small populations of the rare and
endangered,l many-stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis).

other examples of rock outcrop margin flora here are spike moss

(Selaginella Gigelovii), bentgrass (Agrostis diegoensis),
1California Native Plant Society, Smithsonian Institute designations.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 13

Nuttall's snapdragon (Antirrhinum nuttallianum), coffee fern

(Pellaea andromediaefolia),, sticky monkeyflower (Mimulus

aurantiacus),glandular cudweed (Corethrogyne filaginifolia), blue

wool stars (Eriastrum sapphirinum), rattlesnake spurge (Euphorbia

albomarginata), bicolord cudweed (Gnaphalium bicolor), goldentop

grass (Lamarcki-a aurea) and two additional Dudleya species, Chalk

lettuce (D. pulverulenta) and desert savior (D. lanceolata).

At the margins of and within the shade of oak groves, poison oak

(Toxicodendron radicans ssp., diversilobum), purple needlegrass

(Stipa pulchra), fuchsia-flowed gooseberry shrubs (Ribes

peciosum), elongate buckwheat (Er iogonum elongatum), fleabane

(Erigeron foliosus.) and rosin weed (Calycadenia tenella) were found.

A small seep area up in the canyon supports a lush growth of

polypody (Polypodium californicum) and maidenhair (Adiantum

Jordani) ferns. This remaining fern growth is upstream from the

"dripping cave" described by Olmsted, 1978, and by Jones and Stokes,
1978. Intervening dry years and-the midsummer-drought have combined to

make the mesic potential of the upper canyon less obvious during the

latest survey.

Native grasslands are found on slopes overlooking the upper canyon.

California cismontane native grassland is considered a sensitve plant
community. 1 it is dominated by purple needlegrass and contains a

variety of vernal wildflower species,

In the opposite direction from-the botanical resources inventoried

above, at the mouth of the lateral is a freshwater marsh containing a
1 Holstein, 1981. The community is also called California steppe grass-
land (Kuchler, 1964)

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 14

small pond overgrown by emergent monocots. Known as Mallard. Marsh, it

contains zonation bands of vegetation toward the water's edge.

Transitional from the goldenbush scrub to the marshland is a green

meadow dominated by bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon.) and saltgrass.
Rabbitsfoot grass, common cocklebur, curly dock, alkali heliotrope and

common plantain (Plantago major) are found in this zone.

Closer to the water*, increasing amounts of yerba mansa, celery,

bristly oxtongue and western ragweed grow in the saltgrass matrix. Near

the pond are thickets of creek nettles,, poinson hemlock (Conium

maculatum) and bull thistle. other marsh-edge areas are occupied by

rush swales dominated by wire rush (Juncus balticus) and (or)

Mexican rush (J. mexicanus), spike rush, etc.

Marsh fleabane (Pluchea purpurascens) grows at the water edge.

Emergents in the water include Olney's bulrush and common cattail

1
(Typha latifolia) Fauna

The upper canyon with its-dense cover and- rock outcrops is very

likely an excellent fauna habitat. The marsh below is presently

overgrown by cattails and Olney's backrush, lessening -its value for--

waterfowl; however, it functions as a valuable habitat for other water-

dependent bird species.

Fauna observed in the vicinity of the picnic area included turkey

vultures, ravens which were nesting in cliffs opposite the canyon,

western kingbirds, California thrashers, cliff swallows, ash-throated

flycathcers and California quail. observed at Mallard Marsh were

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Pacific tree frogs, yellowthroats, red-winged blackbirds and long-bi lied

marsh wrens.

Th,e immediate goldenbush scrub area within the picnic ground impact

zone is probably inhabited by harvest mice and white footed deer mice

(Peromyscus maniculatis), Audubon cottontail rabbits and other small

mammals. The brushy canyon above is expected to contain a variety of

amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals, inventoried in the species

list. Mallard marsh may be periodically inhabited by coots and various

duck species, though the amount of open water for swimming is very

limited. (Relaxation of grazing is probably contributing to the

excessive overgrowth of emergent plants since the 1978 surveys by Jones

and Stokes and Olmsted).

Several species of herons, common snipe, sora rails and other marsh

bird species probably inhabit the marshland, at least periodically. The

marsh is a potential locality for the red-legged frog (Rana ayrora),
a sensitive amphibian species 1 and the two striped garter snake
1
(Thomomys couchi ssp. hammodi), a sensitive reptile species

Constraints

Biological constraints related*to the Dripping Cave Canyon Picnic

Area relate to its proximity to sensitive biotic resources in the canyon

above, including mesic grotto flora, populations of a -rare and

endangered plant species, and excellent faunal habitat. Mallard marsh,

at the mouth of the canyon is a habitat which would be potentially

impacted by human overuse.

Safety constraints include.the location of the picnic ground in- a

high brush fire hazard area and the attractiveness of potentially

dangerous ruggedrock formations in the canyon above.

1 Csute, 1980.

qprint P38
Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology -16-

Mitagations

Establishment of safe trail routes and signing to discourage

off-trail use may enable visitors to enjoy the amenities of nearby

geologic formations and the sensitive vegetational assemblages present.

This picnic area, wih valuable resources located immediately to the east

and west, is an appropriate site for environmental interpretation

programs, both active (manned) and passive(signed). Because the area is

closed to vehicular use, users would be already motivationally

pre-selected and less likely to participate in acts of vandalism against

natural features or passive intrpretive amenities.

Mallard Marsh should be managed, to control invasive emergent

aquatic growth of cattails and bulrushes and preserve open water areas

for migrational waterfowl. Hydrological impacts to the marsh related to

movement downstream of the downcut zone in Wood Canyon, as discussed by

Olmsted, 1978, should be mitigated. Bird observation platforms and/or

blinds would be a desirable amenity at the pond edge. A series of

trails should be established to provide nature study access; equestrian

use of such trails should be prohibited. At least one side of the marsh

should be closed to access of any kind to protect waterbird nesting

habitats and dens of reparian associated mammal species such as raccoons

and masked weasels.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 17-

2.1.4 Mathis Canyon

of all the locales within the Aliso Viejo Greenbelt, the Mathis

Canyon watershed is one of the most biologically valuable and

potentially sensitive to human impact. it is especially important to

consider secondary use zone impacts both here, at Dripping Cave Canyon

Picnic ground and atop Moulton Meadows.

The Mathis Canyon picnic site is located on the level canyon floor

in the vicinity of the confluence of its north and south branch.' The

poliy advocated by Olmsted, 1978, encouraged the selection of a site in

the open, rather than beneath the attractive old sycamores in the south

branch, to prevent impact on those valuable specimens.

Flora

The designated picnic site is vegetated by introduced grassland

dominated by wild oats and ripgut brome, and additionally containing

soft chess, coastal goldenbush, western ragweed, coyote melon and jimson

weed.

The sycamore grove west of the designated site contains, in

addition to California sycamore, arborescent Mexican elderberry shrubs

and an understory of ripgut brome, mugwort, western ragweed, coastal

goldenbush and creek nettles.

The slopes of the canyon just below the confluence contain coastal

sage scrub on the south exposure and southern oak woodland on the north

exposure. The north-facing slope oak woodland contains in addition to

coast live oak, toyon, holly-leaved redberry (Rhamnus ilicifolia),

lemonadeberry, Mexican elderberry, fuchsia-flowering gooseberry and

sticky monkeyflower. The south-facing slope coastal sage scrub contains

characteristic associates, wih dominance by black sage and an admixture.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology is

of California sagebrush, California buckwheat, California encelia

(Encelia californica), bush mallow (Malocothamnus fasciculatus),

giant rye, lemonadeberry and holly-leaved redberry.

The south fork of Mathis Canyon above the picnic ground contains

extensive and mesic oak woodlands. The canyon forks at least twice

again upstream. The right, or north of these subforks was informally

surveyed several years prior,and found to contain a lush understory of

herbs and ferns. A south branch of the right fork contains the

southern-most populations in the world of pitcher sage (Salvia
spathacea) 1. A population of many stemmed dudleya was found in an

outcrop zone on the south rid ge of the main canyon. An unusual

stolonating form of desert savior also occurs here.

Native grassland vegetates slopes south of the lower canyon floor.

Dominated by purple needlegrass, the grassland contains golden stars

(Bloomeria crocea), wild hyacinth (Dichelostemma pulchella) and

other spring wildflowers.

Fauna

The oak woodland, chaparral, coastal sage scrub and grassland

communities wihin this watershed provide ..a habitat mosaic highly

valuable for a variety of fauna species.

Among the large mammals, mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus)-_

definitely traverse the north branch of Mathis Canyon, as discussed in

Sec 2.2.1. Bobcats (Lynx rufus) have been observed and at least one
captured in the south branch 2 Skunks (Mephitis methitis,

Spilogale gracilis), Opossums (Didelphis virgi niana), raccoons,

Not to be confused with Lepechinia species, also call pitcher sages.
2
Richard Frost, personal communication, May 1977.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology ig

coyotes (Canis latrans) and other medium sized m-ammals undoubtedly

range through these canyons. Small mammals expected include

white-footed deer mice, Caliornia deer mice (Peromyscus

californicus), dusky-footed woodrats (Neotoma fuscipes) and

others. Grasslands on the lower canyon floor will support populations

of Caliornia vole (Microtus californicus).

Birds observed on the floor of the canyon during the brief survey

period include ash-throated flycatchers, phainopeplas, mourning doves,

Annals and possible Allen's hummingbirds, and scrub jays. Many

additional species are expecte d, as enumerated in the species list. A

great horned owl nesting site is located-in a lateral arrayo south of

the picnic area.

Some reptiles, including rattlesnakes are expected, as are several

amphibian species. These,, too, are enumerated in the species list.

Constraints

Biological constraints include prtection of the populations of

pitcher sage and many-stemmed dudleya near the site, as well as fragile

mesic oak woodland flora and--attractive sycamore stands.. Habitat

protection in the upper reaches of Mathis Canyon is an additional

concern,

Safety constraints include the location of the picnic (and nearby

camping) facility in a high fire hazard area.

Mitigations

The standard mitigation applied to previous sites: i.e.,

establishment of trails, prohibition of off-trail use combined with

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 20-

passive and active environmental interpretation, may help to protect

sensitive up canyon habitats in Mathis Canyon. Any nature study trails

within the canyon should be barred from equestrian use.

If picnic facilities are established within the south branch

sycamore grove, contrary to the recommendations of Olmsted, 1978r such

facilities should cosist of portable eequipment and the use of the grove.

should be on a periodic rotation, with intermittant rest periods

equalling periods of use. This will permit rejuvination of soil around

tree bases wih organic material from leaf drop, encouraging the

proliferation of soil organisms.which stimulate aeriation and recovery

from compaction. Additional sycamores, coast live oaks and other

locally indiginous tree and shrub species should be planted in the

designated picnic area. This site should be used at least on a

rotational basis wih the grove above. If the mature, existing grove is

selected as a picnic area, tables and oher amenities should be

physically sited on the ground in the presence of a biologist or

horticulturalist familiar with California sycamore physiology, and the

locales most likely to cause -impact to these trees, through root

compaction, etc., should not be selected.

The picnic ground and adjacent camp ground may of necessity need t-o

be closed to public use during the high fire hazard, late summer and

fall months. An open use would necessitate the maintenance of an

irr,igated turf area at this and other picnic sites, multiple exit routes

from Wood Canyon and vigorously enforced no smoking regulations except

in irrigated areas. During Santa Ana wind ("red flag alert")

conditions, Wood Canyon should in any event, be closed to all use.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 21

2.1.5 Upper Wood Canyon

This picnic site is located on a level stream bench between the

existing farm road and the creek, which is deeply downcut, with

precipitous vertical and undercut banks. The designated picnic area is

south of the big sycamore stand on the floor of Wood Canyon, and was

located here rather than in the stand because of the recommendations of

Olmsted and other analysts.

Flora

The site consists of a grassy meadow with a backdrop of coast live

oaks, black.willows and elderberry bushes along and near the creek. The

meadow area contains characteristic introduced grassland plants. Wild

oats species dominate. Wild gourd, telegraph weed, summer mustard and

doveweed are characteristic forbs. other grasses include foxtail and

ripgut brome.

Thicket stands of elderberry shrubs grow away from the stream edge

and from the site on the north. Tree tobacco and western prickly pear

patches are associated with these stands, which are an excellent avian

habitat.

Most of the oak trees grow on the west side of the downcut creek

channel. Black willows, mulefat, bush mallow shrubs and nettles also

grow along the channel. The large sycamore stand is visible up the

creek.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology @2 2

Slopes to the east are covered by characteristic coastal sage

scrub. Attractive rock outcroppings exist in laterals entering Wood

Canyon from the east. Plant species about these outcrops include

branching phacelia (Phacelia cf. ramosissima), bricklebush

(Brickellia californica),Nuttall's snapdragon, wishbone bush

(Mirabilis californica), California fuchsia (Zauchsneria

californica), smallheaded cudweed (Gnaphalium microcephalum),

bicolored cudweed and goldentop grass. Not all outcrops were inspected.

Some may contain populations of many stemmed dudleya or of the rare

endemic, orange County turkish rugging (Chorizanthe staticoides ssp.

chrysacantha)

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 23

Fauna

The elderberry stands and riparian and oak woodland along the creek

are excellent avifaunal habitats attracting a large population of birds

into the area. Despite the unsuitable mid-day inspection time, numbers

of phainopeplas, house wren, cactus wrens, Allen's hummingbirds, nesting

lark sparrows and mockingbirds were seen. Turkey vultures soared

overhead and California quail were heard from nearby brushy sopes.

Mammals detected in the area included mule deer, coyotes, raccoons,

ground squirrels and pocket gophers. A variety of amphibians, reptiles,

more secretive mammals and migratory birds are expected and are

enumerated in the appendix. The larger area which includes the sycamore

stand is an especially important locality for tree-hole nesting bird

species, including several sensitive songbirds and owls.

Constraints

The most sensitive biological resource within the designated picnic

area is its songbird habitat. Human overuse of the area could drive its

avian occupants to other less suitable habitats. Overuse is not

expected at this time, but 'Could be predicted with full buildout of

Aliso Viejo.

If the sycamore stand north of the designated site 'is selected

contrary to the recommendations of Olmsted and other analysts,

substantial impact can be predicted for that habitat.

Potentially sensitive rock outcrop zones in the area exist a

sufficient distance from the picnic site so that the major impacts

predictable from uncontrolled scrambling would be somewhat ameliorated.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 2-4

Safety constraints include the presence of an extremely hazardous

creek margin which is not obvious until one is upon it. Active

downcutting has left sheer vertical walls which will continue to slough,

with unstable and undercut terrace margins,

As discussed in the previous section, the high dry season brush

fire potential of the area is an additional constraint detracting from

.the suitabiliy of the site.

Mitigations

Physical siting of picnic facilities on the ground in the presence

of a biologist will mitigate some of the impacts on avian habitat by

locating the bulk of facilities to the south of the most sensitive

habitats, which extends into the sycamore stand from adjacent elderberry

clumps. Additional tree and shrub vegetation of locally indigenous

species should be planted to enhance the meadow-savannah setting.

If the sycamore stand is selected contrary to recommendatidns cited

above, very careful physical siting must be made in the presence of a

biologist or horticulturalist familiar with sycamore physiology.

Because of the habitat importance of the stand, it would be desirable to

avoid its use as an established picnic facility. Any use should be on a

rotational basis as discussed in the previous section.

Signing combined with established safe trails could mitigate

potential impacts from uncontrolled scrambling over nearby rock outcrop

zones; and at the same time, satisfy the needs and curiosity of those

who desire to explore such settings.

Fencing and warning signs should be established along the creek

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 2-5

margin to prevent accidental falls into the water course.

Fire hazard mitigations are the same as those described in the

previous section, requiring the establishment of a summer-irrigated turf

zone within the picnic area, and other measures enumerated. A turf zone

should not be established near existing oak or sycamore trees or woody

shrub specimens because of a "general susceptibility of previously

unirrigated natives to oak root fungus.

2.2 CAMP SITES

Two equestrian and hike-in campsites are proposed for the Wood

Canyon area. An additional day use youth site is proposed for the

northern section of Moulton Meadows.

2.2.1 Mathis Canyon

The hike-in/equestrian access Mathis Canyon site is located on the

floor of the north branch,, a short distance above its confluence with

the main portion of this tributary watershed. The site is -located on

level ground subject to some rainy season moisture accumulation.

Flora

The canyon bottom in the campsite area is vegetated by weeds and

introduced grasses, with a high incidence of wet-field ruderal and herb

species such as common cocklebur, western ragweed, willow dock (Rumex

salicifolius), black mustard, Mexican tea, tall horseweed (Conyza

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

canadensis) and western verbena (Verbena lasiostachys). Wild oat

species dominate the *grassland component of the vegetative mix; soft

chess and ripgut brome are also present along with ruderals such as

doveweed and summer mustard. The grassland association extends onto the

slopeland dividing this drainage from the main axis of Mathis Canyon.

The north slope contains coastal sage scrub, descr.ibed in section 2.1.3.

The canyon narrows above its mouth, and contains a scenic oak

woodland and many rock outcrops. Woodland understory vegetation

consists of California goldenrod (Silidago californica), giant rye,

mugwort, brome grasses and some'poison oak. The aspect of this woodland

is open and dry, rather than shaded and mesic. Wetland plants occur

along the creek channel, however. These include mulefat, elderberry

bushes, creek nettles and some tree tobacco. Flora found around the.

rock outcrops examined consisted of spike moss, chalk lettuce, branching

phacelia, California bee plant (Scrophularia californica), Nuttall's

snapdragon and coastal cholla. The outcrop zones are potential

localities for populations of many-stemmed dudleya.

Fauna

Fauna observed in the Mathis Cayon area are described in section

2.1.4. The upper north branch is a well used mule deer dispersion

corridor. The proposed campground straddles this migration route.

Constraints

The principal biological constraint is described in the foregoing

paragraph. The establishment and use of the campground could adversely

impact nearby mule deer habitat and the on-site dispersion route.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 27-

Hydrological constraints include the location of the campground in

a seasonally wet meadow. Safety constraints revolve around the location

of the campground near a highly flammable coastal sage-scrub vegetated

slope and in an area of high dry season fire hazard.

Mitigations

The campground should be located on the southern portion of the

valley floor, near the grassy slope dividing the two branches of the

Mathis drainage and well away from the flammable coastal sage scrub

north-flanking slope. An open space corridor should be maintained on

the canyon floor adjacent to the north slope, to permit nocturnal mule

deer dispersion. This corridor should be screen ed from the c ampground

by indiginous tree and shrub vegetation, including sycamo-res,, elderberry

bushes, toyon and holly-leaved redberry shrubs. (Species of Rhus and

Malosma should not be used because of their flammability potential.)

The campground should be established on imported fill to raise its

elevation above that of the surrounding, winter-wet floodplain. This

fill should contain a high proportion of sand and gravel aggregate to

inhibit "wicking" from wet ground beneath.

If the campground is to be used during the drought season, open
fires should be prohibited, even in established camp stoves. Use of

bottled gas stoves permanently established as part of the campground

amenities, may be permissable if the campsite floor is maintained in

irrigated turf; or, if vegetation is cleared to mineral around cooking

areas, Ash cans should be provided for smokers and their use

encouraged. (Most campgrounds do not provide amenities for users who

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 28

smoke, and consequently, the ground about picnic tables is strewn with

cigarette butts.)

2.2.2 Wood-Corral Canyon Confluence

This campground site is located on a level stream bench at the V

shaped confluence of Wood and Corral Canyon. The site is dry, as the

channels of both drainage are downcut a number of feet below the

terrace,

Flora

The floor of the flat stream terrace contains an inro duced

grassland flora dominated by common wild oats (Avena fatua),

foxtail, ripgut brome, and summer mustard. Wild gourd clusters, cardoon

or wild a rtichoke (Cynara cardunculus) patches and prickly lettuce

(Lactuca serriola) plants are scattered across the mesa. Willow

riparian woodland in each of the flanking drainage channels frames and

shelters the mesa. Arroyo willows and elderberry bushes form a dense

canopy over 'the shaded Corral Canyon Channel with an understory of

phacelia, cocklebur and various grasses. Shading the Wood Canyon

channel are arroy willows, one black willow, one coast live oak and

elderberry bushes. The channel margins contain creek nettles, yellow

monkeyflower (Mimulus guttatus), bristly oxtongue, celery, yerba

mansa, knot grass, rabbitsfoot grass, mugwort and watercress, The
slopeland south west of the confluence is covered by'a dense coastal

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 29

sage scrub association with scattered chaparral shrubs and some live
oak, Fauna

The riparian woodland adjacent to the campsite is a good avian

habitat, with numbers of scrub jays, house finches and other birds

present. Raccoons and other mammals probably traverse the channels

below, and other kinds of fauna would be attracted to the site when the

drainages contain a substantial amount of water.

Constraints

Potential impact on valuable riparian habitat constitutes the only

biological constraint perceived for this site. The proximity. of the
site to park ranger supervision and protection, and the barriers of the

site provided by the incised creek channels and riparian woodland from

flammable coastal sage scrub on nearby slopes ameliorate summer fire

hazard potential to some degree, though the area would be vulnerable in

a fire storm situation. While the creek channels are deeply incised,

their banks appear to be stabilized by heavy tree and shrub vegetation.

Mitigations

To mitigate impact on riparin habitat generally, a trail should be-

established to the creek bottom in the area of the confluence, and

off-trail incursion discouraged.

The existing annual grass cover of the mesa shoud be replaced by a

summer-green irrigated turf if the site is to be used for summer

camping. The extent of this "green lawn" should be of sufficient size

to provide an emergency safety island in event of fire, extending across

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 30

the roadway to the ranger residence and its surroundings. An emergency

escape and fire vehicle roadway should be established to the development

edge up Corral Canyon. The campground should be planted with shad trees

compatible with the area's indiginous riparian woodland and with summer

turf irrigation. No open fires should be permitted in summer, though

use of charcoal in camp stoves may be permissable if an. irrigated turf

setting is maintained, witIl cleared areas around each stove.

2.2.3 Moulton Meadows

The area referred to as Moulton Meadows constitutes Aliso Viejo

ho-ldings on the ridgeline dividing the Bluebird Canyon watershed from

that of lower Aliso Creek. The western portion of this ridge is under

separate ownership, with proposed residential uses. South of Moulton

Meadows is the Arch Beach Heights development. To the north is the Top

of the World Community. A fire access roadway along the ridge is under

construction. This gated right of way will connect the aforementioned

communities and provide emergency nor.th and south access for the

proposed development. Water mains and hydrants have already been

installed along the roadway.

The ridgeline is subject to substantial onshore airflow, which

combined with heavy coastal sage scrub and chaparral cover in each

adjacent watershed and on the site itself, increases significantly the

wildland fire potential of the area and necessitates the ongoing safety

improvements.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 31

Flora

The Moulton Meadows ridgeline is. vegetated by coastal sage scrub

and significant native grassland cover and gravelly barren areas

containing three plant species designated as rare or endangered. A

portion of the northern ridgeline has been subject to past disturbance

and contains a cover of ruderals and introduced. grasses. The most

extensive disturbed area is at the junction of the ridgeline roadway and

a farm road from the Aliso Creek Valley. This site is recommended for

recreational development and the remainder of the ridge for natural open

space preservation. of all of the camp and picnic sites on Aliso Viejo,

the Moulton Meadows locale requires the most sensitive- and specific

locational planning.

Flora

The ridgeline site recommended for day-camp development, as

detailed in the accompanying exhibit, its junction with the Aliso Creek

Valley farm road which is designated as a secondary hiking trail. The
existing vegetative cover of'-this site consists of a disturbance

response community dominated by mustards, bromes (particularly soft

chess),, cardoon and gum plant (Grindelia robusta). Downslope, this

vegetation becomes admixed with coastal sage scrub.

The southern and southwestern portion of the ridge top grassland as

shown in the vegetation exhibit is vegetated by native purple

needlegrass and wildflower species such as mariposa lily (Calochortus

cf. splendens), Cleveland shooting star (Dodecatheon clevelandii),

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 32

blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium bellum), wild hyacinth, owl's clover

(Orthocarpus purpurascens) and smooth cat's ear (Hypochoeris

glabra.). other grass species, which in Aliso Viejo appear to be

almost unique to the Meadows include melic (Melica imperfecta), bent

(Agrostis diegoensis), nitgrass (Gasteridium ventricosum) and

Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha) This native grassland exhibits the

greatest species diversity in areas where it interdigitates with and is

potected by coastal sage scrub shrubland.

Coastal sage scrub atop the ridge consists of California sagebrush,

coastal goldenbush (including. a gray-villous leaved variety or

subspecies, possibly H. ve oxyphyllus), California buckwheat,

deerweed, sticky monkeyflower, giant rye, glandular cudweed, chaparral

bedstraw, Nuttall's bedstraw (Galium nuttallii), sawtoothed

goldenbush (Haplopappus squarrosus), black sage, black-white sage

hybrid forms. shor littoralis), bladderpod (Isomeris arborea),

coyote bush (Baccharis pilularis) and intermixed chaparral shrubs:

lemonadeberry, laurel sumac and tyron.

Barren,, gravelly@ areas--within the 'scrub are inte'rmittantly

occupied by the rare and endangered many stemmed dudleya, the rare

western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis - a post-tite succession

species), fluffweed (Filago californica), blue wool stars and in

appropriate south facing slope situations the rare, endangered and

endemic orange County turkish rugging. The location of each kno wn

population of species rated rare or endangered is indicated on the

biotic resources exhibit for the Moulton Meadows area.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology _33-

The north-facing slopes of the Bluebird Canyon and Aliso Creek

watershed channels eminating from the ridgeline contain a dense coastal

chaparral cover composed primarily of lemonadeberry and toyon. An

unusual yellow-fruited form of the latter species occurs in upper

Bluebird.Canyon (Pope and Movich, 1973. The Bluebird Canyon watershed

and portions of the ridgeline adjacent to Aliso Viejo property were also

surveyed by the author (Marsh, 1977).)

Fauna

Significant muledeer habitats, which include bedding and possible

fawning areas, exists on several ridgeline areas above the Aliso creek

valley and immediately south east and north east of the day camp site,

Wildlife dispersion corridors are easily detected from---aerial photos

when located in coastal sage scrub. Visible corridors are shown in the

biotic resources exhibit for Moulton Meadows. The combination of

habitat types including those providing protective cover and food

resources is conductive for maintenance of substantial wildlife

populations.

Other fauna evidence observed included burrows, tracks or scat of

desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida), pocket gopher (Thomomys
bottae),, agile kangaroo rat (Dipodomys agilis) and Audubon
cottontails. Birds were not in evidence during the windy survey period,

though many scrubland species are expected.

Constraints

Biological constraints include disruption of localities of rare or

endangered plant species, impact on native grasslands and grassland

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 34

wildflower localities and disturbance of mule deer fawning habitats.

Safety constraints include the location of the site in an extremely

high fire hazard area, at the upper throats of several heavily brushed

canyons in an area of high onshore winds. (This constraint is partially

mitigated by the fire road under construction.)

Climatological constraints include the aforementioned, sometimes

annoying briskness of the onshore wind.

Mitigations

A no-project or scaled-down project alternaive should be considered

for the Moulton Meadows site, particularly as conceived as a youth day

camp, The large number of individuals brought into the area by such an

installation would pose a definite threat on nearby se nsitive locales

even if the camp is as carefully sited as recommended. The Moulton

Meadows is an excellent teaching and nature study resource for small

groups of people, or for larger groups which are carefully supervised;

it is the potential that inadequately supervised large group use will

exert substantial negative impact that warrants this recommendation.

A scaled-down recreational.facility consisting of a few picnic

tables screened with vegetation as a shelter from the wind, drinking

water and restroom facilities would be appropriate within.the designated-

site, as a hiking trail destination or starting point. Because of the

proximity of the site to paved access roads and a future development

edge, vandalism can be predicted on permanent installations.

It is recommended that an active interpretation program be

conducted in the Moulton Meadows area, because of the wealth of unique

.Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology -35---

biotic resources it contains. Passive interpretive techniques would not

be appropriate because of the vandalism potential related to easy

access, The area is currently used as an active recreation site by

motorcyclists. Some type of fencing will be required to prevent the

future entry of vehicles onto the Moulton Meadows openspace.

2.3 RANGER RESIDENCE

The proposed ranger residence is located in lower Corral Canyon a

short distance north, and on the other side of the Wood Canyon farm road

from the Wood-Corral confluence campground site. The site is located on

level ground bissected by the Corral Canyon drainage.

Flora

The site is located on a degraded and cattle impacted grassland.
Foxtails and ripgut brome are dominant grasses; others include red brome

(Bromus rubens), common and slender wild oats. Forbs within the

grassland consist of doveweed, wild gourd, prickly lettuce, summer

mustard, Russian thistle, cheese weed, telegraph weed and tall

horseweed.
Slopeland north of the*-residence site consists partly of a

disturbed grassland/disturbed coastal sage scrub ecotone, and"partly,of-,

dense coastal sage scrub with admixed chaparral. The latter

association is composed principally of black sage and lemonadeberry, and

additionally contains sagebrush, buckwheat, sticky monkeyflower, western

prickly pear, giant rye and elderberry bushes.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 36

Constraints and Mitigations

No biological constraints are perceived. Safety constraints

consist of the area's fire hazard potential. An emergency fire roadway

and maintenance of an irrigated turf zone around structures, as

discussed in section 2.2.2 will partially mitigate fire constraints.

Construction materials for the facility should be non-flammable.

2.4 TRAILS

A series of proposed bicycle, equestrian and pedestrian trails

follow existing farm roads, exerting little construction impact on

nat ural systems except in areas wher-e substantial.widening or rerouting

over wildland is required.

2.4.1 AWMA Road

The existing, paved Aliso Water Management Agency Sewer Treatment

Plant access road is to constitute the principal portion of a bikeway

and shuttle bus route between the northern end of the greenbelt and the

Aliso Creek Beach. joint use by bicycles and powered vehicles will

require widening the existing roadway thirty feet. The roadway may need

to be realigned in the vicinity of the AWMA plant, to avoid an area of

blind curves.

Localities where road widening could impact potentially sensitive

resources were examined, mapped and are herein described.

No impacts are predicted from the north end of the road to its

junction with Wood Canyon. This portion of the roadway passes through

cattle-degraded introduced grasslnd.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology -37----

Between Wood Canyon and Big Bend, a cave pocketed rock outcrop zone

terminates a short distance west of the roadway. The outcrop is located

next to a cattle guard across the road, the only such structure in this

portion of the roadway, and is roughly 1,000 feet south of the Wood

Canyon junction. The locality is an archaeological site.

Flora species common on the outcrop include pine goldenbush

(Haplopappus pinifolius, a characteristic outcrop shrub species),

bricklebush, Nuttall's snapdragon, small-headed cudweed, chalk lettuce,

prickly pear cactus and California buckwheat. The site is a recorded

locality for the rare and endangered endemic, Orange County Turkish
Rugging 1.

To mitigate adverse impact on this sens itive geologic,

archaeological and biological resource, road widening should not impinge

upon it. The formation should additionally be exempt from roadside

vegetation control. Near the outcrop zone, adequate room exists to the

southeast of the AWMA Road to permit the bulk of the widening on that

side.

Several other slopes terminate in the vicinity of the roadway as it

proceeds southward. These all contain coastal sage scrub and are not

known to harbor sensitive, rare or endangered plant speci.es,

To avoid blind curves south of the AWMA plant, it is proposed that

a new route be establihed over a saddle to the west. Substantial earth

removal would be required to install a roadway of sufficient gradient to

be suitable for bicycling; however, a steeper gradient would -be

permissible for powered shuttle vehicles, allowing the existing road to

1 Marsh and Marsh, 1978, Site 15.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 38

remain for bicycles only. The saddle was surveyed and found to contain

sensitive areas of native grassland and a population of a regionally

uncommon shrub, little leaved redberry (Rhamnus crocea). The size

of the stand would be sufficient to support a northern outlier

population population of the Hermes copper (Lycaena hermes), a rare

butterfly species now recorded only to the south, from San Diego County

to Baja California. Lepidopterists believe that significant populations

of little-leaved redberry in south Orange County may harbor the

1
butterfly, which is dependent on the shrub as a larva foodplant

Existance of the Hermes copper in the saddle area has not been

determined, however.

Flora species recorded from the saddle include purple needlegrass,

blue eyed grass, elongate buckwheat, little leaved redberry, bush

mallow, California pepper (Schinus molle), Mexican elderberry, pine

goldenbush, lemonadeberry and an assemblage of sage scrub plants,

dominant on the slopes below the saddle. The latter grouping includes

the characteristic components, California sagebrush, California

buckwheat, black sage, white sage and Nuttall's bedstraw.

Because of the potential destruction of valuable biotic resources

on the saddle, it is recommended that alternative routes be considered

and surveyed..

Below the blind curve area, the roadway passes thro ugh a planted

eucalyptus stand. Trees near the road will be removed when it is

widened.

The lower portion of the beach route was not examined because-of

Orsak, 1977, page 270.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology -39---

lack of access through the golf course beyond the -eucalyptus stand.

However, a population of the rare, endangered and endemic Laguna Beach

dudleya (Dudleya stolonifera) occurs or once occurred on rock

outcropping in the vicinity of Ben Brown's Restaurant, at the mouth of

Aliso Creek. It is not known whether extant populations would be

impinged upon by the proposed roadway.

2.4.2 Aliso Creek Equestrian Trail

The Aliso Creek Equestrian Trail route was surveyed from south to

north, from its junction with the Wood Canyon farm road, across Aliso

Creek and hence northerly to the vicinity of the proposed staging area.
Little impact is predicted from this trailway except where. crossing

Aliso Creek, since it follows an established farm road, The gradient of

the roadway is essentially level and the stream terrace through which it

passes is open and treeless.

From the end of the Wood Canyon farm road to the presently unused

farm road on the east side of Aliso Creek, the proposed trail follows

the lower Wood Canyon channelf which contained no water.during the

survey. Riparian scrub vegetation characterizes this reach. Mulefat,

tree tobacco, Mexican tea, creek nettles, mugwortr coastal gold enbush,,

cocklebur and western ragweed grow along the dry channel.

Along the wet margin of Aliso Creek, the characteristic saline

riparian assemblage of saltgrass, yerba mansa, celery, bristly oxtohgue,

Spanish sunflower, Olney's bulrush and knotgrass, is present. The creek

is shallow and was easily forded, apparently containing no quicksand

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology -40----

deposits or other hazards in the route of crossing. A line of large

mulefat and castor bean (Ricinis communis) grows along the creek edge.

Northward, the farm road passes variously, through areas of

impacted and ruderal-dominated grassland, through goldenbrush scrub, by

areas of mulefat, giant reed, nettles and tarragon (Artemisia

dracunculus) clumps and through rush-sedge dominated marshy fields.
The' latter associations are most biologically interesting. Dryer

portions of these areas are covered by acres of alkali rye (Elymus

triticoides) while damper areas are dominated by Mexican rush and also

contain yerba mansa sedge (Carex sp.) and saltgrass. A male marsh

hawk was seen foraging in this area.

A potential hazard to the roadway exists-as i.t passes near an-

encroaching creek meander in the vicinity of the elderberry stand south

of the previously described picnic ground site. When examined, the edge

of the stream terrace was only eight feet from the margin of the

roadway, and this edge was continuing to deteriorate at the apex of the

meander below. Immediate corrective measures are required to save the

roadway at this point. The author was uncertain where the equestrian

trail would recross the creek to gain access to the staging area, if

such an area is built where it is presently planned. It.is. recommended.

that a crossing not be made within the dense stands of willows north of

the picnic site, because of their aesthetic value and habitat role as a

roosting area for great blue and green herons. A crossing in the

vicinity of the picnic area wil-1 impinge on an essentially open riparian

zone, the vegetation of which is described in section 2.1.1.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 41

Disturbance impact to foraging herons is predicted,, and these sensitive

bird species may be forced to leave the area, despite mitigations

recommended in section 2.1.1

The equestrian trail parallels a wildlife dispersion corridor along

the margins of Aliso Creek. The corridor at the present time appears to

be used principally by small and medium-sized mammals, mainly raccoons.

No evidence of deer was seen. Coyotes probably traverse the farm road,

though all tracks had been obliterated by cattle.

2.4.3 Wood Canyon Trail and North Link

The Wood Canyon hiking and equestrian trail follows the existing

farm road, and no improvements are contempla ted at this- time. -The trail

follows a wildlife dispersion corridor ( Jones and Stokes, 1978);

however, human and wildlife uses should not conflict since the former

use would be during the day and the latter principally at night.

Trail improvements recommended include reconstruction of the

roadway as it passes through swampy ground adjacent to Mallard Marsh,

and trimming of overhanging tree-branches which might be a -hazard to

horseback riders.

The north link leaves the bottom of Wood Canyon, joining an old

farm road which proceeds up the west slope at a moderate gradient

comfortable for hiking. The roadway is partially overgrown wih coastal

sage scrub and successional vegetation and will require some restorative

blade work. It passes through a high fire hazard area and should be

closed to public use during the drought season.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 42

Scenic amenities along the link include views of dense oak woodland

in the lateral canyon below, areas of rock outcropping and coastal sage

scrub and grassland on higher slopes. A full inventory of plant and

animal species observed along the route is included in the appendix

species lists, because of the need for some removal of vegetation which

has invaded the route. England and Nelson, 1977, and Jones and Stokes,,

1978, show the existing roadway as a wildlife dispersion corridor link

between Wood Canyon, the ridgeline above and eventually Laguna Canyon.

During the field survey, it appeared that the link was being utilized

principally by coyotes.

The trail joins an existing farm road atop the ridge west of Wood

Canyon. The farm road is outside of the Aliso Viejo study area and

access to it was not obtained from the property owner. No impacts are

predicted, however, since equestrian and hiking use requires no

improvement to the roadway that would impact adjoining habitat.

3.0 REFERENCES CITED

Csuti,Blair, 1980. Special Animals of the California Fauna.
California Natural Diversity Data Base. Sacramento, CA.

England, Sid and Steven Nelson, 1977. Aliso Creek Corridor Planning
Units 2 and 3 Specific Plan Biological ssment. England and
Nelson Environmental Consultants, Riverside, CA.

Holstein, Glen, 1981. Special Plant Communities of California
Working Lists. California Natural Diversity Data Base, Sacramento, CA.

Jones and Stokes, Inc., 1978. Evaluation of the Proposed Aliso
Viejo Develo2ment lan with Respect to Biological and
Selected Physical Resources in Aliso-Tir-e-)@oEnvirionmental
Impact_Report, Technical Appendix E. Jack G. Raub Co., Costa Mesa, CA.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 43

Kuchler,, A.W., 1964. Potential Natural Vegetation of the
Conterminous United States. American Geographical Society Special
Publication 36.

marsh, Karlin, 1977. Biotic Resources Assessment, Laguna Properties
site,_ L Una Beach? CA. IN Initial Study, EIR, Laguna
Properties, Laguna Beach, CA. Larry Seeman Associates, Newport
Beach, CA.

Marsh, Karlin and Gordon Marsh, 1978. Orange County Turkish Rugging
Sites within the Proposed Aliso Viejo Planned Community in
Aliso Viejo Environmental_Impact Report, Technical Appendix E.
Jack G. Raub Co., Costa Mesa, CA.

Olmsted, John, 1978. Multi-Value open Space Analysis of the
Aliso Viejo_Environmental Impact Reportr Technical Appendix ff. jack
G. Raub Co., Costa Mesa, CA.

Orsak, Larry, 1977. The Butterflies of Orange County,
California. Center for Pathiobiology; Museum of Systematic Biology,
University of California, Irvine, CA.

Pope, R. L. and F. C. Movich, 1973. Biota of Laguna Investor's
Development. In Draft EIR on Tenative Tract 5607, City, of
Laguna Beach, CA. Envista, Orange, CA.

Smith, James Payne et. al., 1980. inventory of Rare and Endangered
Vascular Plants of California. California Native Plant Society
Special Publication No.1, Second Edition. CNPS, Berkeley, CA.

1981. Inventory o Rare and Endangered Vascular
Plants of California, First Supplement. CNPS, Berkeley, CA.

Tate, James, Jr., 1981. "The Blue List For 1981."American Birds, Vol. 35,
No. 1, January 1981.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 44

4.0 FLORA AND FAUNA SPECIES INVENTORY

4.1 FLORA

Occurance
D - Dominant
C - Common
0 - occasional
U - Uncommon

Locality:

Aliso Creek

1. Equestrian picnic area

2. Big Bend picnic area

3. Aliso Creek equestrian trail

AWMA ROAD

1. Rock outcrop zone near'AWMA Road 1,0001 s. of Wood Canyon

2. Other slope toes potentially impacted by AWMA Road widening

3. Saddle crossing route south of AWMA treatment plant

MM - Moulton Meadows

Wood Canyon

1. Dripping Cave Canyon picnic area and environs

2. Mallard Marsh

3. Mathis Canyon

4. Wood-Corral confluence area

5. Upper Wood Canyon picnic ground

6. Wood Canyon north trail link

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 45

Status

Disjunct, rare or endangered
Introduced

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 46__-

Community or Association

NG - native grassland

IG - introduced grassland

W - Weed or ruderal of disturbed successinal sere

R - riparian, general

R-w - riparian woodland (including understory)

R-bs - riparian Baccharis scrub

R-gs - riparian goldenbush scrub

R-s/a - riparian - saline/alkaline wet margins

R-j/c - riparian - Juncus Carex swale

R-fwm - riparian - fresh water marsh or emergent aquatic

H - horticultural introduction

Css - coastal sage scrub

Ch - coastal chaparral

OW - southern oak woodland

B - barrens and outcrop zones
BO - outcrop barrens
Bg - gravel or sand barrens

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 47_

LYCOPODIAE

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

SELAGINELLACEAE-
CLUB-MOSS
FAMILY

Selaginelsa bigelovii 0 Bo - - - x x - - -
little club-moss

ASPIDIACEAE - FERN
FAMILY

Dryopteris arguta 0 ow x x
wood tern

POLYPODIACEAE - FERN
FAMILY

Polypodium californicum 0 OW - - - x x
California polypody

PTERIDACEAE - FERN
FAMILY

Adiantum capillus- U ow - - - x x x
veneris
maiden-hair fern

Pellaea andromediaefolia U OW - - - x - - - - -
coffee fern

Pityrogramma triangularis U ow - - - x - - -
goldenback tern

P. t. U OW - - - X
silverback fern

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 48

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

AMARANTHACEAE
AMARANTH FAMILY

Amaranthus blitoides 0 W x X - - -
prostrate pigweed

ANACARDIACEAE - SUMAC
FAMILY

Rhus integrifolia D ch x x x x - x x x x
limonadeberry

ANACARDIACEAE - SUMAC
Malosma laurina FAMILY 0 Ch - - - x X - - - - X
laurel sumac

*Schinus molle U H - - - x
pepper tree

Toxicodendron
diversilobum
poison oak

APIACEAE - CARROT
FAMILY

*Apium graveolens c RW x x x - x
celery Rs/a

*Conium maculatum 0 R- - - - x -
poison-hemlock fwm

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 49-:

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daucus pusillus 0 Css - - - x - - - - - -
rattlesnake weed

*Foeniculum vulgare 0 W X - - - - - - - - - x
sweet fennel

Sanicula crassicaulis U OW - - - x
PacifTc sanicle

ASCLEPIADACEAE
MILKWEED

Asclepias californica I IG x - - -
California milkwg-ed

Ascle21as fascicularis U IG x X - - -
Mexican milkweed

ASTERACEAE - SUNFLOWER
FAMILY

Ambrosia acanthicarpa U R-bs x - - - - - - - - - -
annU-a1 bur-ragweed

Ambrosia psilostachya C Rm-gs x x x x x x x x
western ragweed IG

*Anthemis cotula 0 R-s/a x x x - - - - -- - - - - -
mayweed

Artemisia california D Css x x x x x x x x - x x x x
coastal sa@_ebrush

Artemisia douglasiana C RW x x X. - x x x x x x
Caliornia mugwort

Artemisia dracunculus U R-bs x - - - - - - -
tarragon

Aliso'Viejo Greenbelt Biology 50-

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Baccharis glutinosa D Rbs x x x x x x x x x
m u!7e-f at

Baccharis pilularis 0 Css - x x X X x x - - -
coyote bush Rbs

Brickellia californica 0 Bo - - - x x x - x x x -
California brickellbush

Calycadenia tenella U IG - - - x X - - - - -
rosin weed Bg

Cirsium vulgare 0 W - X_ x x x - - -
bull thistle (R)

*Conyza canadensis 0 W x x
horseweed (IGOR)

Corethrogyne
filaginifolia U Css - - - x x x - - - - x
common corethrogyne

*Cotula coronopifolia C Rs/a x x x - - - - - -
bras-s-U-uttons

*Cynara cardunculus 0 IG x x x x x
cardoon

Encelia californica U Css - - - X - - - x
bush sunflower

Erigeron foliosus U OW - - - x - - - - -
leafy daisy-

Filago californica U B@ - - - x X - - -
C
alifonia flu eed

Gnaphalium bicolor 0 Bo x x x
bicolored-leaf
cudweed

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 51

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gnaphalium californicum 0 CSS - - - x x x - - -
California everlasting IG
R-bs

Gnaphalium microce halum 0 Bo - - - x - x
white everlasting CSS

Grindelia robusta 0 NG - - - - x x - - - - - -
gum-plant

Haplopappus pinifolius 0 Bo - - - x x x - - - - - - -
saw-toothed goldenbush

Haplopappus venetus D R-gs x x x x X-.-x x x x x x x
coastal goldenbush

H. V. oxyphyllus U CSS - - - x - - - - - -

Helianthus annuus U R x - - - - - - - - - -
common sunflower

Hemizonia fasciculata 0 IG - X x X - X - - -
fascicled tarweed

Heterotheca grandiflora C W x x X. x x - - x x
telegraph weed

Hypochoeris glabra 0 NG - - - x - x - - -
smooth cat's ear

*Lactuca serriola 0 W x x
prickly lettuce

*Picris echioides 0 RW x x x
bristlT -Ox tongue R-s/a

Pluchea purpurascens 0 R- x x - - - -
marsh fleabane fwM

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biolo 52

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Pulicaria hispanica 0 R-s/a x x x
Spanish sunflower

*Silybum marianum U W x
milk M'stle

Solidago californica U OW
California goldenrod

*Sonchus oleraceus 0 W x x x X - - - -
common sow thistle

Stephanomeria exigua 0 Css X - - - - - - - -
small stephanomeria

Stephanomeria virgata 0 IG x - - - - - -
tall stephanomeria

*Xanthium strumarium C R x x x X X X X
cocklebur

Cryptantha intermedia U Css - - - X - - - - - - - - -
white ?-o-rget-me-not

BORAGINACEAE - BORAGE
FAMILY

Heliotropium curassavicum C R-s/3 x x x x - - - -
salt heliotrope

BRASSICACEAE - MUSTARD
FAMILY

*Brassica geniculata C IG x x x x x x - x Xx x
short-podded mustard

*Brassica nigra C IG x x x x - x - - -
black mustard

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 53-

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
------------------------------------------------------
---------------------

*Raphanus sativus 0 W(R) x x x - - - - - - - - - -
wild r-id--11"s-h

Rorippa nasturtium
aquaticum C R X x x X
water-cress

*Sysymbrium irio U W X - - - - - - - - - -
London-rocket

CACTACEAE - CACUS FAMILY

*Opuntia ficus-indica U CSS x - - - - - - - - - - -
r-
Indian fig RW

*Opuntia "occidentalis" C CSS - - - x X X X X
hybrid coastal prickly
pear

Opuntia littoralis 0 CSS - - - x x x x
coFs-stal pricRTy pear

Opuntia proli era 0 CSS - - - X X X
co t cholla

CAPPARACEAE CAPER
FAMILY

Isomeris arborea U CSS - - - x - - - - - -
bladderpod

Maritime desert scrub.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 54

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

%.APRIFOLIACEAE
HONEYSUCKLE
FAMILY

Sambucus mexicana C RW x x x x - X - X X X
Mexican elderberry Ch

Symphoricarpos mollis U Ow - X- - - - -
spreading snowberry

CARYOPHYLLACEAE - PINK
FAMILY

*Silene gallica U W X x - - - - - - - - -
wilndmill pink

CERATOPHYLLACEAE
HORNWORT FAMILY

Ceratophyllum demersum U R-fwm x - - - - - - - - - -
713-rnwort

CHENOPODIACEAE
GOOSEFOOT
FAMILY

Atriplex canescens U R-s/a x - - - - - - - - - -
fourwinged saltbush

Atriplex patula U R-s/a x x x - - - - - - - - - -
spear orache

*Atriplex semibaccata 0 G x

*Chenopodium album U W x - - - - - - - - - -
lamb's quarters

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 55

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance-' ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Chenopodium
ambrosioides 0 R X x x x X x X
Mexican-tea

*Chenopodium rubrum U W - - x - - - - - -
red goosefoot

*Salsola iberica 0 W - x x X - X X
Russian-thig-tle

Calystegia macrostegia U Css - - - x
western bindweed

CONVOLVULACEAE
MORNING-GLORY
FAMILY

Calystegia macrostegia U Css - - - x
western bindweed

**Dichondra
occidentalis U Css x - - - - - -
western dichondra

CRASSULACEAE - STONECROP
FAMILY

Dudleya lanceolata 0 Bo X -.X-
lance-leaved dudleya

**Dudleya multicaulis U Bo - - - x X - X - - -
many stemmed dudleya Bg

Dudleya pulverulenta 0 Bo - - - x x - X x
chalf lettuce

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
.ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

**Dudleya stolonifera U Bo - - - - - - -
Laguna Beach dudleya

CUCURBITACEAE - GOURD
FAMILY

Curcubita foetidissima 0 IG x x x x x
cala6azilla

EUPHORBIACEAE
SPURGE FAMILY

Eremocarpus setigerus C IG x x x - X*- X X X
dove weed

Euphorbia
albomarginata U Bo - - - x - X - X
rattlesnake weed

*Ricinus communis 0 R-bs - x x - - - - - - - - - -
castor-bean

FABACEAE - PEA FAMILY

*Lotus crassifolius U W - x - - - - - - - - - -
E-11'rd's-foot trefoil

Lotus scoparius 0 Css - - - x x - x - x
deerweed

Lupinus sp. U G - x - - -
lupine

Lupinus excubitus U Css - - - 2 -
interior bus-7- Fupine

1 May occur in outcrops at mouth of Aliso Creek.
2
Near cave rocks, Wood Canyon south of Dripping Springs Canyon.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 57

Locality

Aliso
occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
--- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Medicago polymorpha C W x x x
bur-clover

*Melilotus albus 0 R x x x - - - - - - - - - -
white swi;4t -clover

FAGACEAE - BEECH FAMILY

Quercus agrofolia D Ow - - - X X X X X
coast live oak

Quercus engelmannii Repported from Wood Canyon. Questionable.

FRANKENIACEAE - FRANKENIA
FAMILY

Frankenia grandifolia R-s/a x - - - - - - -
alkali heath

GERANIACEAE - GERANIUM
FAMILY

*Erodium moschatum U IG x - - - - - - - - - -
whi temmed filaree

HYDROPHYLLACEAE
WATERLEAF FAMILY

Phacelia sp. U W - - - x
phacelia RW

Phacelia ramosissima 0 Bo - - - x x x X.-
Fr-a-n-cT -1 r i _gpT 'ac-e 11 -a

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 58

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
--------------------------------------------------- I------------------------

LAMIACEAE - MINT FAMILY

*Marrubium vulgare 0 IG x x x X X X X X-
horehound Css

Salvia apiana 0 Css - - - - x x - x - x x x x
white sage

Salvia mellifera D Css - - - - X X X X - X X X X
black sage

**Salvia spathacea U OW, - - - - X - - -
pitcher sage

Trichostema
lanceolatum U IG x x
vinegar weed

MALVACEAE - MALLOW FAMILY
Mal-ocothamnus
fasciculatus 0 Css - - - x x x x
mesa bushmallow

*Malva parviflora U W - x x
cheeseweed

MYRTACEAE - MYRTLE FAMILY
*Eucalyptus sp. 0 H - - - x -- - - - - -
eucalyptus

NYCTAGINACEAE - FOUR - O'CLOCK FAMILY

Mirabilis californica 0 Bo - - - x - - - - - - X
71"s-hbone bush

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 59

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM. 1 2 3 4 5 6
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

PAPAVERACEAEA - POPPY FAMILY

Eschscholzia californica U G x
California poppy

PLANTAGINACEAE - PLANTAIN FAMILY

Plantago erecta U Bg - - - x x - - - - - -
Califorri'laplantain

*Plantago major 0 R x x x x - - - -
common plantain

PLATANACEAE - SYCAMORE FAMILY

Platanus racemosa 0 RW - - - x - x
California sycamore

POLEMONIACEAE - PHLOX FAMILY

Eriastrum sapphirinum U Bo - - - x x x - - - - - --
sapphire eriastrum

POLYGONACEAE - BUCKWHEAT FAMILY

**Chorizanthe staticoides ssp.
U Bg - - - x x - - - - - -
Orange County turkish
rugging

Eriogonum elongatum U NG - - - x X - - - - -
ong-stemmed erio-gonum

Eriuonum fasciculatum C Css - - - x x x x x - x x x -
California buckwheat

Eriogonum nudum U Bo - - - x - - - - - - -

Poppy no'se.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 60

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity * 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Polygonum aviculare 0 W x x x X - - -
common knotweed (R)

Polygonum lapathifolium U R x - - - - - - - - - -
willow-weed

*Rumex crispus C R x x x x - - - -
curTy dock

Rumex salicifolius U R - - - x - - -
willow dock

PRIMULACEAE - PRIMROSE FAMILY

*Anagallis arvensis 0 R(W) x x x - - - - ---
scarlet pT-mpernel

Dodecatheon clevelandii 0 NG - - - x - - - - - -
shootin@-Ftar

RHAMNACEAE - BUCKTHORN FAMILY

Rhamnus crocea U CH - - - x - - - - - - -
reaE-erry

Rhamnus ilici.folia 0 CH x x
large-leaved red-berry

ROSACEAE - ROSE FAMILY

Heteromeles arbutifolia D Ch - - - x x x x x - x
toyon

Rosa californica U OW - - - - x
Ti'l d-r o s e

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 61-

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---- --- - - -

RUBIACEAE - MADDER FAMILY

Galium angustifolium 0 CSS - - - x X - - - X X
narrow-leaved bedstraw

Galium nuttallii U CSS - - - x x - - - - - -
Nuttall's bedstraw

RUTACEAE - RUE FAMILY

**Cneoridium dumosum U Css - - - x - - - - - -
bushrue

SALICACEAE - WILLOW FAMILY

Salix gooddingii 0 RW x x X X
black willow

Salix lasiolepis D RW x x x X X -
arroyo willow

SAURURACEAE'- LIZARD-TAIL

Anemopsis californica D R s/a x x x X X -
yerba mansa

SAXIFRAGACEAE - SAXIFRAGE

Ribes speciosum 0 OW - - - - X - X - X X
fuchsia-flowered gooseberry

SCROPHULARIACEAE - FIGWORT FAMILY

Antirrhinum nuttallianum 0 Bo - - - x - x - x @ x
Nuttall's snapdragon

1 Maritime desert scrub.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 62-

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
-----------------------------------------------------
----------------------

SCROPHULARIACEAE FIGWORT FAMILY (cont1d)

*Kicksia elatine U R-s/a x x - - - - - - - - - -
fluellin

Mimulus aurantiacus C Css - - - x x x x x x x x
orange bush monkey-flower

Mimulus guttatus U RW - - - X
yellow monkey-flower

Orthocarpus purpurascens U NG - - - x - - - - - -
owl's clover

Scrophularia californica U Bo - x -
coast figwort

SOLANACEAE - NIGHTSHADE FAMILY

Datura meteloides 0 G,R x x x - x
-']Tm-son weed

*Lycopersicon esculentum U H - x - - - - - - - - - -
tomato

*Nicotiana 21auca C R-bs x x x - x
tree tobacco

Solanum d lasii 0 R-bs x x x x
Douglas' nightshade

URTICACEAE - NETTLE FAMILY

Urtica holosericea C RW - x x X X X X X
creek nettle-

Allso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 63

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

VERBENACEAE - VERVAIN FAMILY

Verbena lasiostachys 0 R - x x x x - - -
western verbena

AMARYLLIDACEAE - AMARYLLIS FAMILY

Bloomeria crocea 0 NG - - - x X - X - - -
golden stars

Dichelostemma pulchella 0 NG ? x X - X - X,
wild-hyacinth

CYPERACEAE - SEDGE FAMILY

Carex sp. 0 R-j/c - x - - - - - -
sedge

Cyperus sp. U R - x - - - - - - - - - - - -
umbrella sedge

Eleocharis montevidensis 0 R-j/c - - - x x - - - -
slender creeping sFike-rush

Scirpus olneyi D R-fwm x x x x - - - -
Olney bulrush

IRIDACEAE IRIS FAMILY

Sisyrinchium bellum ..C NG - - - x x X X - - -
blue-eyed grass

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 64

Locality

Aliso
occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

JUNCACEAE - RUSH FAMILY

Juncus balticus 0 R-j/c x x x - - X
re rush

Juncus mexicanus D R-j/c x X X - - X
Mexican rush

LEMNACEAE - DUCKWEED FAMILY

Lemna trisulca 0 R-fwm x
ivy -leave duckweed

LILIACEAE - LILY FAMILY

Calochortus splendens 0 NG - - - x - - - - - -
lilac mariposa

POACEAE - GRASS FAMILY

Aqrostis diegoensis U NG x X - - - - ?
!eafy bentgrass

*Arundo donax 0 R-bs x x x
giant reecT-

*Avena barbata D IG X x x x X X - x X x X
slender w=1 oat

*Avena fatua D IG x x X X X* x x - x x-x X
commo-n--w'lTd oat

Bothriochloa barbinodis U Bg - - - X - - - - - -
5-e-a-F7 - g r a s s

*Bromus diandrus D IG x x x x x x X x - x x x x
ripgutgrass

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 65

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

POACEAE - GRASS FAMILY (cont'd)

*Bromus mollis C IG x x x x x x x x - x x x X
soft chess

*Bromus rubens 0 IG - - - x x - - - - X X
red brome

*Cortaderia atacamensis U H - - - - - -- x
pampas grass

*Cynodon dactylon 0 R-sa x x - - - -
bermudagrass

Distichlis spicata D R-sa x x x X X - - - -
saltgrass

*Echinochloa crusgalli U R - x x
watergrass

Elymus condensatus 0 Css - x x ? x X X
giant wila ye

Elrus triticoides D R-j/c - - x - - - - - - - - - -
alkali wild rye

Festuca megalura U IG - x
meadow fescue

*Gastridium ventricosum U NG - - - x - - - - - -
nitgrass

*Hordeum le2orinum C IG x x x x - - - x x
foxtail barley

Koeleria macrantha U NG - - - x - - - - - -
u i7e-g-r ass

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 66-

Locality

Aliso
Occur- Commun- Creek AWMA Wood Canyon
ance ity 1 2 3 1 2 3 MM 1 2 3 4 5 6
------------------------------------------------------

POACEAE - GRASS FAMILY (cont1d)

*Lolium perenne
multiflorum U IG x x - - - - - - - - - -
Italian ryegrass

Melica imperfecta U Css x - - - - - -
small-flowered melica

Paspalum distichum C R x x x X
knotgrass

Pennisetum clandestinum 0 R - x x
kikuyu grass

*Polypogon monspeliensis 0 R x x x X
rabbit's-foot grass

Stipa pulchra D NG X X x X - X X X
purple needlegrass

Typha latifolia C R-fwm x x x x
broad-leaved cat-tail

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 6-7-

4.2 FAUNA

Occurence

0 - observed duing 1978 or 1981 field surveys
R - reported by England and Nelson, 1977.
E - expected to occur on site
E?- uncommon species possibly expected

Habitat

FWM - freshwater marsh
RE - open riparian edge
RW - riparian woodland
G - grassland
B - coastal sage scrub or chaparral brushland
OW - southern oak woodland

Status

sensitive species

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology .68

AMPHIBIANS

CAUDATA - NEWTS AND SALAMANDERS

Taricha torosa R (7) RW
Calif5r-nra-newt
Ensatina eschscholtzi E ? FWMF*RWI OW
Esch oltz's sa nder

Batrac hoseps pacificus E Go, OW
Pacific slender salamander

Batrachoseps attenuatus E FWMI RWI OW
CaliTo-rnia slender s-aTamander

Aneides lugubris, E? OW
arboY-eal salamander

SALIENTIA - FROGS AND TOADS

Scaphiopus hammondi E? RE
western spadefoot

Bufo boreas E FWMj REj RW, Bt OW
western toad

**Bufo microscaphus E? FWM, RW, RE
Southwestern toad
Hylaireqilla 0 FWM, RW, RE
Pac fi; treefrog

**Rana aurora E FWM, RW, RE-
reg-legged frog

Rana catesbeiana- 0 FWMF RWI RE
-6-5-11frog

Reptiles

CHELONIA - TORTOISES AND TURTLES

**Clemmys marmorata R FWMI RW, RE
western pond turtle

AliSo Viejo Greenbelt Biology 69

SQUAMATA - LIZARDS AND SNAKES

Coleonyx variegatus E? B, OW
banded gecko

Scelovorus occidentalis R All
weste-r-n-7ence lizard

Uta stansburiana R All
T,
side-blotch izard

Eumeces skiltonianus E? OW
western skink

**Cnemidophorus h erthvrus E? REf RW, OW
orange-throated wh ptail

Cnemidophorus ti ri E? B, OW
western whipt

Gerrhonotus multicarinatus R RWI G, OW
T_ ---
southern all gator lrz-ard

Leptotyphlops humilis E? RWF BF OW
western blind snake

Lichanura trivirgata E? B, OW
rosy boa

Diadophis punctatus E BF OW
ringneck snake

Masticophis flagellum E G, Bf OW
common whipsnape
Masticophis lateralis E? RW, BF OW
striped racer

Salvadora hexalepis E? B
western patch-nosed snake

Pituophis melanoleucus R RW, G, B, OW
gopher snake

Lampropeltis getulus 0 all
common kingsnake

Rhinocheilus lecontei E? RW, G? B, OW
To-ng-nosed snake

**Thamnophis couchi R FWMI RW, RE
western quatic garter snake

Crotalus ruber R B, OW
red Mam-on-d-Fattlesnake

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 70

Crotalus viridis 0 RW, G, B, OW
western rattlesnake

BIRDS

GAVIIFORMES - LOONS

Podilymbus-podiceps R FWM
pied-billed grebe

CICONIIFORMES - HERONS AND ALLIES

**Ardea herodias 0 FWM, RW, RE
great blue heron

Butorides virescens 0 FWM, RW, RE
green heron

Bubulcus ibis 0 G
cattle egret 1976

Nycticorax nycticorax R FWM
black-crowned night heron

Botaurus lentiginosus R FWM
American bittern

Branta canadensis E? FWM, G
Canada goose

Anas platyrhynchos R FWM
mallard

Anas strepera R FWM
gadwall (offsite?)

Anas acuta R FWM
pintail (offsite?)

Anas crecca R FWM
green-wlnged teal

Anas cyanoptera R FWM
cinnamon teal

Anas americana R FWM
American wigeon (offsite?)

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 71

Anas clypeata R FWM
northern shoveler (offsite?)

Aythya collaris R FWM
ring-necked duck

oxyura jamaicensis R FWM
ruddy duck

FALCONIFORMES - VULTURES, HAWKS, OSPREYS AND FALCONS

Cathartes aura 0 All
turkey vulture

**Elanus leucurus 0 G
white-tailed kite

**Accipiter striatus R RW, OW
sharp-shinned hawk

**Accipiter cooperii R RW, OW
Cooper's hawk

Buteo jamaicensis 0 All
red-tailed hawk

**Buteo lineatus 0 RW
red-shouldered hawk

**Buteo regalis R G
f erruginous hawk

**Aguila chrysaetos 0 RW, G, B, OW
golden eagle

**Circus cyaneus 0 G, RW
marsh hawk

**Falco mexicanus E G
prairie falcon

**Falco sparverius R All
American kestrel

GALLIFORMES - GALLINACEOUS BIRDS

Lophortyx californicus 0 B
California quail

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 72

GRUIFORMES CRANES, RAILS, GALLINULES AND COOTS

Porzana carolina RW, FWM
sora rail

Gallinula chloropus RW FWM, RE

common gallinu e (offsite?)

Fulica americana RE, FWM
American coot

CHARADRIIFORMES - SHOREBIRDS, GULLS AND ALCIDS

Charadrius vociferus 0 RE
killdeer

Capella qallinago E FWM
common snipe

Tringa melanoleuca E? RE
greater yellowlegs

Tringa flavipes E? RE
lesser yellowlegs

Calidris minutilla R RE
least sandpiper

Calidris mauri R RE
western sandpiper

Calidris alba R RE
sanderling

Larus occidentalis R RE
western gull

Larus californicus R RE
California gull

Larus delawarensis R RE
ring-billed gull

Larus philadelphia R FWM
Bonaparte's gull

Columba livia 0 G (near habitation)
rock dove

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 73

Zenaida macroura 0 G,B
mourning dove

Streptopelia chinensis R G (near habitation)
spotted dove

CUCULIFORMES - CUCKOOS AND ROADRUNNERS

Geococcyx californianus 0 G, B
roadrunner

**Tyto alba R RW, G, OW
barn owl

**Otus asio E RW, B, OW
screech owl

**Bubo virginianus 0 RW, OW
great horned owl

**Speotyto cunicularia R G
burrowing owl

**Asio otus E? RW, OW
long-eared owl

CAPRIMULGIFORMES - GOATSUCKERS

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii E B
poor-will

APODIFORMES - SWIFTS AND HUMMINGBIRDS

Chaetura vauxi R G, B
Vaux's swift

Aeronautes saxatalis R G
white-throated swift

Archilochus alexandri R RW, B
black-chinned hummingbird

Calypte costae R B
Costa's hummingbird

Calypte anna 0 RW, B
Anna's hummingbird

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 74

Selasphorus rufus E RW
rufous hummingbird

Selasphorus sasin 0 RW
Allen's hummingbird

CORACIIFORMES - KINGFISHERS AND ALLIES

Megaceryle alcyon 0 RE, RW, FWM
belted kingfisher

Colaptes auratus R OW, RW
common flicker

Melanerpes formicivorus R OW
acorn woodpecker

Sphyrapicus varius R RW, OW
yellow-bellied sapsucker

Dendrocopos nuttallii R RW, OW
nuttall's woodpecker

PASSERIFORMES - PERCHING BIRDS

Tyrannus verticalis 0 G
western kingbird

Tyrannus vociferans R G
Cassin's kingbird

Myiarchus cinerascens 0 RW, OW
ash-throated flycatcher
Sayornis nigricans 0 RE, RW, FWM
black phoebe

Sayornis saya 0 G
Say's phoebe

**Empidonax traillii E? RW, FWM
willow flycathcer

Empidonax difficilis R RW, OW
western flycatcher

Contopus sordidulus R RW, OW
western wood pewee

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 7-5-

Tachycinetta thalassina R FWM
violet-green swallow

Iridoprocne biocolor R FWM
tree swallow

Stelgidopteryx ruficollis R FWM
rough-winged swallow

Hirundo rustica R FWMr G (around habitation)
barn wallow

Petrochelidon pyrrhonota 0 FWM, RE, RW, G
cliff swallow

Aphelocoma coerulesceng 0 RWF Bf OW
scrub jay

Corvus corax 0 B, G
common raven

Corvus brachyrhynchos R G and around habitatih
common crow

Parus inornatus E OW, RW
plain titmouse
*Psaltriparus minimus 0 RWr Bf OW
bushtit

Chamaea faaciata R B
wrentit

Troglodytes aedon 0 RWF OW
house wren

**Thryomanes bewickii- R RWF OW
Bewick's wren

Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus 0 B
cactus wren

Telmatodytes palustris 0 FWM
long-billed marsh wren
Mimus polyglottos 0 RWI Gr B. Ow,
mockingbird around habitation

Toxostoma redivivum 0 B
C
alifornia thrasFer

Oreoscoptes montanus R B
sage thrasher

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology @76_

Turdus migratorius R RW, OW
Americ-a-=ron

Catharus guttatus R RW, OW
hermit thrush

Catharus ustulatus E RWF OW
r-
Swainson s thrush

Sialia mexicana E RW
western bluebfird

Polioptila caerulea E TWg B, OW
blue-gray gnatchatcher

**Poli'optila melanura E B
black-tailed gnatcatcher

Regulus satrapa R RW, OW
golden-crNned kinglet

**Regulus calendula R RW, OW
ruby-crowned kiNglet

Bombycilla cedrorum R RW, B, OW
cedar waxwing

Phainopepla nitens 0 RW
phainopepla

**Lanius ludovicianus 0 FWM, G
loggerhead shrike

Sturnus vulgaris 0 RW, around habitation
starling

Vireo huttoni R OW
Hutton's vireo

Vireo solitarius E? RW, OW
solitary vireo

Vireo gilvus R RWI OW
warbling vireo

Vermivora celata R RW, OW
orange-crowned warbler

Vermivora ruficapilla R RWO, OW
Nashwille warbler

**Dendroica petechia R FWM, RW, OW
yellow warbler

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 77.

Dendroica nigrescens R RW, OW
black-throated gray warbler

Dendroica coronata R RW, B, OW
yellow-rumped warbler

Dendroica townsendi R RW, OW
townsend's warbler

Dendroica occidentalis E RW, Ow
hermit warbler

Geothlypis trichas 0 FWM
commonyellowthroat

Wilsonia pusilla R FWM, Rw, Ow
Wilson's warbler

Passer domesticus 0 RW, B
house sparrow around habitation

Sturnella neglecta 0 G
western meadowlark

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus R FWM
yellow-headed blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus 0 FWM
red-winged blackbird

**Aegelaius tricolor R FWM
tricolored blackbird

Icterus cucullatus E RW, around habitation
hooded oriole

Icterus galbula 0 RW, OW
northern oriole

Euphagus cyanocephalus 0 RE, FWM
Brewer's blackbird

Molothrus ater 0 G
brown-headed cowbird

Piranga ludoviciana R RW
western tanaer

Pheucticus melanocephalus E OW, B
black-headed grosbeak

**Guiraca caerulea R FWM, RE, RW
blue grosbeak

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 78

Passerina amoena E RW, G, B
Lazuli bunting

Caprodacus mexicanus O All
house finch

Spinus tristis R RE, RW, G
American goldfinch

Spinus psaltra O RE, RW, B, G, OW
lesser goldfinch

Pipilo erythrophthalmus O OW, B
rufous-sided towhee

Pipilo fuscus O B, RW, OW
brown towhee

Chondestes grammacus O BW, G
lark sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis R G, B
savannah sparrow

Pooecetes gramineus E? B
vesper sparrow

Aimophila ruficeps E? B
rufous-crowned sparrow

Amphipiza belli E B
sage sparrow

Junco haemalis R RW, B, OW
dark-eyed junco

Spizella passerina E? G, around habitation
chipping sparrow

Zonotrichia atricapilla R RW, B, OW
golden-crowned sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys R All
shite-crowned sparrow

Passerella iliaca R RW, B, OW
fox sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii R RW, B, OW
Lincoln's sparrow

Melospiza melodia O RW, FWM
song sparrow

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 79

MAMMALS

MARSUPIALIA - POUCHED MAMMALS

Didelphis virginiana R All
Virginia opossum

INSECTIVORA - INSECT EATERS

Sorex ornatus E All
ornate shrew

Notiosorex crawfordi E
desert shrew

CHIROPTERA - BATS

Mvotis lucifugus E All
little brown bat

Procyon lotor 0 REs, RW
raccoon

Mustela frenata E FWMI REr RW
long-tailed weasel

Taxidea taxus E G
badger

Spilogale qracilis E OW
spotted skunk

Mephitis mephitis E RW, G, B, OW.
striped skunk

Canis latrans 0 All
coyote

Urocyon cinereoargenteus E All
ray fox

**Felis concolor
R All
mountain lion

Lynx rufus 0 All
bobcat

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

RODENTIA - GNAWING MAMMALS

Spermophilus beecheyi 0 G, B
California ground squirrel

Thomomys bottae 0 G, RW, OW
Botta pocket gopher

**Perognathus longimembris E B
little pocket mouse

Perognathus fallax E? RE (sand)
San Diego pocket mouse

Perognathus californicus E? By OW
California pocket mouse

Dipodomys agilis 0 B
pacific kangaroo rat

Reithrodontomys megalotis E RE, G, RW, WM
western harvest mouse

Peromyscus eremicus E? B
cactus mouse

Peromyscus californicus E OW, B
California mouse

Peromyscus maniculatus E All
deer mouse

Neotoma lepida 0 B
desert woodrat

Netoma fuscipes E OW, B, RW
dusky-footed woodrat

Microtus califonicus 0 G
California vole

Mus musculus E G, around habitation
house mouse

LAGOMORPHA - HARES AND RABBITS

Lepus californicus R G, B
black-tailed hare

Sylvilagus audubonii 0 All
desert cottontail

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 81

Sylvilagus bachmani E B
brush rabbit

ARTIODACTYLA - EVEN-TOED HOOFED MAMMALS

0docoileus hemionus 0 All (especially OW and RW)
mule deer

ALISO VIEJO PUBLIC FACILITIES

ADDENDUM TO BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

REPORT

PREPARED FOR

LIDYOFF/HOURIAN
Landscape Architecture and Planning
777 South Main Street, Suite 170
Orange, California 92668

KARLIN MARSH
Biological Consultant

September 16, 1981

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

On July 30, 1981, a field trip was conducted to familiarize key agency per-

sonnel with park planning activities within the Allso Viejo Greenbelt. The fol-

lowing individuals participated in the field trip:

- Reneb Robbins - California Coastal Conservancy

- Ruth Galanter - California Coastal Conservancy

- Steven Kimple - California Fish & Game Department

- Daniel Turner - Orange County Environmental Management.

Agency

- Grace Seketa - Orange County Environmental Management

Agency

- Eric Jessen - Orange County Environmental Management

Agency

- Richard Watson- Jack Raub Company

- Phil VanderToolen- Lidyoff/Hourian

Karlin Marsh - Biological Consultant

Positions and opinions expressed by agency personnel, particularly Steven

Kimple, necessitated a reexamination-of certain portions of the Greenbelt de-

velopment plan. The following is a summary of agency commentary and an analy-

sis of the feasibility of suggestions advanced, plus a biological-inventory of

alternative use sites identified.

1. Aliso Creek Habitat Protection

Kimple stated that his agency.would comment in opposition to recreational

development on both sides of Aliso, Creek. Kimple stressed that the natural qual-

ity of the streamcourse was unique and that stream valley habitat should be pro-

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 2-

tected. He believed that with removal of grazing pressure, th at opportunities

would exist for natural-succession habitat restoration.

Jessen discussed the probability that the streamcourse once was lined by a

sycamore woodland, subsequently timbered during the early European settlement per-

iod.

Kimple recommended that the equestrian trail parallel the bike and shuttle

way, and that no recreational development be placed on the east side of the creek.

Robbins expressed concern that passing shuttle busses would startle horses if the

trails were close together.

Jessen recommended the planting of a sycamore woodland along the length of

the creek.

Discussion

The author shares the concerns expressed by Robbins. Af the--trails were

parallel or close to eachother, a vegetation screen could be planted in between to

partially mitigate potential problems related to equestrian use and safety, how-

ever.

A concentration of uses would, as Kimple correctly asserted, allow large areas

of the valley to function as wildlife habitat. The planting of reparian trees and

shrubs would enhance the recovering -indigenous setting. Although sycamores might

not be able to tolerate the high salinity/alkalinity regime within the floodplain,

other shrub and tree species, particularly willows and elderberries should estabItsh
well. Concentration of facilities will however, detract from the park user recrea-

tional experience. Safety aspects to horseback riders may not be fully mitigated by

the aforementioned tree and shrub screen. Because the farm road designated as an

equestrian trail would remain visible for many years, unregulated equestrian use

could be predicted, as pointed out by conservancy representatives. Kimple countered-

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

that while some unregulated use was expected, the level of use would be much less

than if the trail were officially designated and the picnic ground amenity provid-

ed.

Biological Assessment

No sensitive biological resources appear to be present on the west stream ter-

race of Aliso Creek between the AWMA Bridge and the mouth of Wood Canyon, except

near the margins-.*of the stream. The reaminder is vegetated by introduced grassland

species and by goldenbrush shrub. It is predicted that the latter community will

become even more extensive, once cattle are removed.

There appear to be no biological constrains to the placement of equestrian fa-

cilities and trails between the existing AWMA Road and Aliso Creek, except near the

margins of the stream itself. However, west of the AWMA Road near the toe of the

Sheep Hills are several localities of the rare and endangered Orange County Turkish

Rugging, (chorizanthe staticoides_ssp. chrysacantha). All.of these are contiquous

to rock outcrops on fairly steep slopes. Any trail or facilities constructed should

avoid these areas.

2. Lower Wood Canyon Facilities Clustering

Kimple expressed concern about the degree of development proposed for Wood Can-

yon and had specific comments regarding certain recreational sites. He stated that

clustering recreational and ranger headquarters facilities in central Wood Canyon

would substantially impact and denigrate the wildlife habitat within the drainage

corridor. A reevaluation of development concepts was necessitated by concernSrex-

pressed by Kimple and previously and subsequently voiced for various reasons by the

Orange County Environmental Management Agency and by Watson of Jack G. Raub Company.

It appears that there may be a majority consensus of opinion for relocating

centralized facilities to the mouth of Wood Canyon, and scaling down'recreational

planning within the upper watershed.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Discussion

Placement of facilities at the mouth of Wood Canyon would be advantageous

from several standpoints.

1) It would allow for greater public accessibility to amenities provided,

particularly if the site is made a shuttle bus stop. It is additionally

recommended that the shuttle bus stop at the Big Bend picnic area. Ameni-

ties would include informational and interpretive services, law enforce-

ment protection, drinking fountains and restroom facilities.

2) It would allow for a more centralized supervisory facility for recreational

activities in both Wood Canyon and the Aliso Creek Valley..

3) It would permit the phasing of recreational development, with Al.iso Creek

facilities implemented at an earlier stage ihan those in upper Wood Canyon.

4) It would permit access, supervision and control of use of-upper Wood Canyon.

Wood Canyon above the Ranger Station could be closed during the high fire

hazard season, satisfying a concern expressed by Jack G. Raub Company re-

presentatives.

5) Clustering of facilities near the mouth of the Canyon would ameliorate im-

pacts on the habitat of the upper cahyon, satisfying California Fish & Game

concerns.

Disadvantages of siting a concentration of facilities at the mouth of Wood

Canyon include the following.

1) Wildlife dispersion routes between upper Wood Canyon and Aliso Creek

might be severed. Deer in a bedding area above the proposed visitor

center would be distur bed and forced to move to other habitats.

2) Other access points to Wood Canyon from the Aliso Viejo development

area and from offsite development above Mathis Canyon, would not be

controlled or supervised. This would be of particular concern during

the fire season.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

3) Recreational use within upper Wood Canyon would n ot be regulated, nor

would the protection of a law enforcement and rescue facility be pro-

vided to upper Canyon visitors.

4) Infrastructure (water, electicity) would not be as readily available

on the short term (prior to Aliso Viejo buildout) as it would be at

the up-Canyon sites. It might be advantageous therefore on a cost

basis to use on-site, highly mineralized water for purposes.other than

drinking, to truck in drinking water, and to generate electricity on

site, utilizing trucked-in gasoline or propane. The sunny location of

the site would make the use of solar power for structure and water

heating an attractive option.

To ameliorate some of the other disadvantageous aspects of a Canyon-mouth fa-

cility, it is recommended that a tributary ranger station and a ranger residence be

established in the,general area previously designated, near the confluence of Wood

and Corral Canyon.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Proposed Ranger Station

Biological Assessment

A biological survey of the site of the porposed canyon-mouth ranger station

was conducted on August 27, 1981. The paragraphs below summarize the findings of

that survey.

The proposed location of the visitor center and headquarters building is on

the west side of the Wood Canyon farm road, in a flat area, part of which is pre-

sently occupied by a corral. The site is flanked by a backdrop of brushy slope-

land with many rock outcrop exposures.

A portion of the flat is subject to continual impact*from equestrian and cattle

trampling. This area is vegetated by a variety of ruderals, including tumbleweed

(Amaranthus albus), cheeseweed (Malva pa".1flora), tall horsewee.d--(Conyza-canaden-.

sis) and telegraph weed (Reterotheca grandiflora), along with patches of Bermuda--

grass (Cynodon dactylon), coyote melon (Curcubita foetdissima) and some Mexican.

milkweed (Asclepias -fascicularis) and mock black nightshade (Solanum nodiflorum

Forage grasses in this area were trampled beyond recognition.

Away from the impact area, the flat contains a 50:50 mix of coastal golden-

brush (Haplopappus venetus)and introduced annual grasses, mainly ripgut brome

(Bromus diandrus) and common wild oats (Avena fatua). Other species of plants

inventoried on the less disturbed portions of*the flat include doveweed (Eremocar@-

pus setigerus),__foxtail barley (Hordeum leporinum), ragyve.ed _(Ambrosia psilostachya)

and prickly lettuce (Lactuca serroila).

Some moisture indicator species are present in fairly small numbers. These

include Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicanus) alkali heliotrope (Heliotropium

curassavicum), and mulefat (Baccharis glutinosa). It can-thus be surmised that

the site contains fairly moisture retentive soils, (the presence of coastal golden-

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

brush is a further indication of this condition), and that the area is*subject to

very sporadic swampy conditions during the rainy season. This condition, it should

be noted, is not nearly as severe as it is in the north branch of Mathis Canyon at

the proposed campground site. However, facilities design should take into account

the possibility of a seasonal ground water problem. The importation and placement

of gravel fill, to raise building pads slightly above surrounding grade is a cost

factor to be taken into account in developing an evaluation matrix of visitor center/

ranger station site alternatives.

The lower portion of the backdrop slope behind the proposed facility contains

introduced grassland. Above, this community is replaced by coastal sage scrub.

Many outcrop exposures provide aesthetic variety in the visual texture of the back-

drop. To the south, a narrow, coastal chaparral filled canyon drops to the valley

floor. Upper slopeland vegetation consists of the following coastal sage scrub,

rock outcrop and coastal chaparral species:

Coastal Sage Scrub:

California buckwheat - (Eriogonum fasciculatum)

White sage - (Salvia apiana)

Black sage - (S. mellifera)

Black-white sage hybrids - (S. ioiana X mellifera)

Western prickly pear - (Opuntia "occidentalisilX

Chaparral bedstraco - (Galium angustifolium.')

Glandular cudweed - (Corethrogyne filaginifolia)

California sagebrush - (Artemisia californica)

Purple needlegrass - (St. pa pulchra)

Foothill needlegrass - (S. lepida)

Lemonadeberry - (Rhus integrifolia)

Elongate buckwheat - (Eriogonum elongatum)

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Bush mallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus)

Paintbrush - (Castilleja sp.)

Wild hyacinth - (Dichelostemma, puchella)

Rock Outcrop Zone

Rock outcrops behind the ranger station proposed site are potential localities

for two rare and endangered plant species, Orange County turkish rugging and many-

stemmed dudleya (dudleya multicaulis). Documented sites of the former species are

located nearby, at the toe of the Sheep Hills 'and on rock outcrop exposures flanking

the AWMA Road at the cattle guard just south of the mouth of Wood Canyon. Both

species are vernally evident, with only bits of dead remnants available for analysis

in late summer. No such remnants were found but the possibility is great that one

or both taxa are present around some of the outcrops.

Species actually located and inventoried include the following:

Pine goldenbush - (Haplopappus pinifolius)

Fragrant everlasting - (Gnaphalium beneolens)

SaItgrass - (Distichlis spicata)

Orange bush monkeyflower - (Diplacus aurantiacus)

Tarweed - (Hemizonia sp.)

Sapphire eriastrum - (Eriastrum_sapphirinum)

Sand mat - (Cardionema ram05issima)

Slender woolly eriogonum - (Eriogonum gracile)

Ravine Flora

The narrow ravine which bisects the slopeland southwest of the ranger station

site is vegetated by a heavy cover of coastal chaparral shrubs: lemonadeberry and

toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), al ong with California sagebrush, giant rye grass

(Elymus condensatus), orange bush, monkey flower and poison oak (Toxicodendron

radicans ssp. diversilobum).

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology

Most of the fauna observed in the vicinity of the proposed ranger'station were

in the surrounding uplands, though a roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) and evi-

dence of meadow mice (Microtus californicus) were seen on the flat. The most re-

markable aspect of the fauna setting is the large amount of deer evidence on the

upper brushy slopeland. Many dropping sites and bedding areas were seen here. The

location of these deer areas were in sites providing excellent view points of the

surrounding slopes and the flats below. The floor of Wood Canyon probably functions

as a deer dispersion route, and the slopeland above as a foraging and resting area

where the approach of predators can be monitored. Location of the ranger station

on the flat below will.result in a human use level of sufficient disturbance to
force.deer occupying the upper slopeland to move to other*sites. Its effect on the

theorized dispersion corridor is not known. Fortunately, human activities around

the station would be within a diurnal ti.me frame, while fauna] use of the corridor

would be mainly nocturnal.

Other fauna or fauna evidence observed on the slopes included Audubon cotton-

tail rabbits (Sylvilagus audubonii), coyotes (Canis latrans) and birds such as

wrentits (Chamaea fasciata), scrub lays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) and a roadrunner.

Many other bird species undoubtedly visit the brush habitat but were not in evi-

dence during the very hot survey period.

If the ranger station - visitor center is located on the flat at the mouth of

Wood Canyon, the slopeland environment would be an ideal and convenient site for an

interpretive nature trail. The variety of habitats and species on this slopeland

afford the visitor an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the biota of

Aliso Viejo's hill country. Impact on resident deer feeding groups would probably

be no greater than the impact of placing the facility structure below. However,

the habitat should be monitored, and if there continued to be evidence of deer use,

trail use should be limited or prohibited, especially during the fawning season.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 10

3. Cave Rock Canyon Recreational Area

Mr. Kimple suggested the development of the floor of lower Cave Rock Canyon,

on the west side of lower Wood Canyon as a picnic/camping facility near the reloca-

ted ranger facility. A preliminary examination of Cave Rock Canyon revealed that

its deeply downcut tributary watercourse effectively barred ingress on potentially

sensitive up canyon chaparral and oak woodland habitat, and additionally protected

coastal sage scrub vegetation on the south slope. The remaining site lacks aesthe-

tic appeal, and landscaping would be needed to create an attractive setting for

camping and picnicking. Its present vegetation consists predominantely of coastal

goldenbrush and ripgut brome. The downcut watercourse presents a potential safety

hazard and should be fenced.

Biological Assessment,-
On August 27, 1981, lower Cave Rock Canyon was surveyed for biological resources

and areas of biological sensitivity.

The floor of the lower canyon is flat and is vegetated by the aforementioned

grass-goldenbrush mix. The upper portion of the floor contains much less goldenbrush

than does the lower. In addition to the codominants, canyon floor flora consists of

summer mustard (Brassica geniculata), ragweed, coyote melon, some common wil.d-oats,

common cocklebur, jimson-weed (Datura meteloides) and'horehound (Marrublum vulgare).

The aforementioned, deeply downcut stream channel contai ns a dense border of

coastal goldenbush, two specimen Mexican elderberries, tree tobacco (Nicotiana gic .luca)-f-

mugwort (Artemisia douglasian phacelia (Phacelia cs. circutaria)--and poison oak.
----The lower stream course is not aesthetically attractive at present, but its margins

represent an opportunity area for habitat enhancement and attractive rustic fencing.

The only easy entry point into the stream bottom is a cattle train at the upper

apex of the canyon mouth flats. This trail drops into the channel and continues up-

stream through dense poison oak. The upper canyon contains coastal chaparral, mainly

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 11

lemonadeberry. Slopes to the north of the canyon'flats are coastal sa ge scrub vege-

tated. Black sage is the dominant species within the association here. California

buckwheat and California sagebrush are other common plants. Exposed rock outcrops

are fringed with Bigelow spike moss (Selaginella bigelovii). The ridge top above is

capped by lemonadeberry bushes.

Slopes to the south of the canyon floor contain a mix of coastal sage scrub and

coastal chaparral except toward the canyon mouth. Here are the visually significant

Cave Rocks, massive sandstone-type boulders containing at least one narrow 'Iedge

cave. These geologic features are surrounded by an oak-savanna, with scattered, ma-

ture coast live oak trees (Quercus agrifolia) in a wildflower bedecked grassland.

Characteristic plant species found on the outcrops or at their margins, include

California fuchsia (Zauchsneria californica), Nuttall's snapdragon (Antirrhinum

nuttallianum), desert savior (Dudleya_lanceolata), polypody ferns,--(Polypodium cali-

fornicum), goldentop grass (Lamarckia aurea),'Bigelow spike moss, California plantain

(Plantago erecta)_,_fluffweed (Filago californica) and stephenomeria (Stephenomeria sp.).

Many stemmed dudleya appropriate here, was not found.

Within the savanna, ripgut brome is the dominant grass. Masses of lupine (Lupinus

spp.), owls clover (Orthocarpus purpurascens), clarkia (Clarkia spe_-), pink (Silene sp..)
and smooth cat's ear (Hypochoeris *gl6bra) flowers add hues of blue, fuchsia, pink and

yellow in spring. In the shade of the oak trees grow phacelias, monkey flowers, milk

thistle (Silybum marianum) and chaparral bedstraw.

The outcrop zone and surrounding oak savanna are vulnerable to human overuse.

The placement of a picnic and/or camping facility on the flat below will certainly

encourage use of this area, despite the presence of the downcut grilly separating it

from the facility site, (One needs only to use the existing farm road-trail, to cross

this impediment). Aesthetic impacts (from littering, rock defacement and trampling)

as well as biological, can be predicted. Educational signing might help to mitigate

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 12

adverse impacts,'though the worst type of violator would probably ignore their mes-

sage. A safety hazard related to the ]edge cave also exists: the potential for get-

ting stuck or tightly wedged in its narrow confines.

Fauna or evidence of fauna observed in the overall site include brown towhees

(Pipilo fuscus), house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus), wrentits, bushtits (Esalti-

parus minimus), an unidentified lizard on the rocks, an unidentified snakeskin in

goldenbush scrub on the canyon floor, Botta pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae).Workings

in the savanna and copious scat evidence of coyotes on the rocky floor of the high

ridge point above the oak savanna.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 13

3. Scaled Down

Upper Wood CanyonFacilities,

A. Dripping Cave Canyon. Because of its proximity to Mallard Ma.rsh.and to sensi-

tive mesic slope habitats in the upper tributary, Kimple recommended that facilities

planned for Dripping Cave Canyon be scaled down or deleted. It is the author's opin-

ion that access could be provided into lower Dripping Cave Canyon without unduly im-

pacting the marsh habitat and that a scaled down facility in the designated area

could be feasible. Dripping'cave Canyon is an important aesthetic resource and while

unregulated use or overuse could exert undesirable impact, provisions ought to be

made to allow the park visitor to enjoy the setting. The canyon, together with

Mallard Marsh would be an ideal site for winter interpretive activities and hikes.

B.* Ranger Station Alternative Site. An alternative location for a central Wood

Canyon Ranger Station had been selected by Lidyoff/Hourian. This site providds for

better supervision of Mathis Canyon than the previously designated locale. It

consists of a level grass area on the east side of the farm road opposite the con-

fluence of the Wood and Corral Canyon drainages and the designated camping facility.

The area is flanked and framed by coastal sage scrub slopes and is at the mouth of

a small hidden canyon. Kimple suggested that this tateral canyon above'the new

ranger station site might be ideal for camping and picnicking. The narrow canyon

was examined and found to be suitable for a very limited camping faci-lity, providing

a scale and intimacy lacking in previously examined campsites. It is a box canyon

abruptly terminating against the steep slope of the Sheep Hills, and contains some

elderberry reparian brush near its head. Coastal sage scrub flanks the grassy can-

yon floor, necessitating the use of the siteas a "cold camp". (Group cooking facili-

ties could be provided at the canyon mouth).

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 14

Biological Assessment

On August 27, 1981, the Lidyoff/Hourian proposed ranger station/ranger resi-

dence site was surveyed, along with flanking slopes on the north and south. The

narrow lateral canyon above was not rescrutinized, because it was subsequently de-

cided that camping facilities would not be considered here within early development

phasing.

The flat-area at the lateral canyon mouth is vegetated by introduced grasses

and some forbs, plus a few coastal goldenbushes near the farm road. Principal spe-

cies identified included ripgut brome, common wild oats, Russian thistle (Salsola

iberica), summer mustard, soft chess (Bromus mollis), foxtail barley, doveweed

(Eremocarpus setigerus), prickly lettuce, coyote melon and windmill pink (Silene

gallica).

The slope backdrop to the north east is vegetated by coastal- -sage scrub, princi-

pally California buckwheat, and some black sage. To the southeast, on the opposite

side of the lateral canyon, the lower slope contains an immense live oak tree, with a

spread probably exceeding one hundred feet, and above, a second, smaller oak.

The noontime survey period was po or for wildlife observation. However, several

turkey vultures (Carthates aura) were seen soaring along the ridge top above, and a

spotted towhee (Pipilo erythropthalmus) foraging beneath the large oak tree.

C. Mathis Canyon. Kimple questioned the desirability of_having separate picnic-

and camping areas in Mathis Canyon, suggesting one multiple use facility. Comments

were made by several field trip participants with respect to location of facilities

in the designated, low aesthetic value sites. The general consensus was that visitors

would independently select more app ealing camp and picnic sites in the wooded upper

canyon. Such use,,whether or not it is designated, will of course have adverse im-

impacts on sycamore and live oak specimens and on the value of the forested habitat.

Aliso Viejo Greenbelt Biology 15

Robbins inf ormed the group that upper Mathis Canyon outside A] iso Viejo was going to

be dedicated open space, but flanked by development. Hence the potential for sub-

stantial use of this biologically sensitive drainage is quite great, and will re-

quire careful trail planning and close use supervision. The population of pitcher

sage (Salvia spathacea), occurring here in a disjunct southern locale must, in par-

ticular be protected.

4. Moulton Meadows. After reviewing the sensitive biotic resources of Moulton

Meadows, the study group appeared to be in consensus with the author, that the re-

creational site here should be scaled down from a day camp facility to a small

trailhead picnic area, sited carefully at the junction of the existing farm road

into the Aliso Creek Valley, and the ridgetop fire road.

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