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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRIDGEWOOD HILLS RESIDENCES 4TH FILING - MAJOR AMENDMENT - MJA130003 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTEcological Characterization Study 'Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B City of Fort Collins Larimer County, Colorado Completed for: Hendricks Communities, LLC 7350 East Progress Place, Suite 208 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 303.722-6088 FAX: 303.722.0628 and Current Planning Department City of Fort Collins 281 North College Avenue Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 970.221.6341 Completed by: Steve C. Johnson, BS, MS, PWS Senior Ecologist Natural Resource Services." Inc. P.O. Box 861 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 NRSI Project No. 1O-CO-035-002 January 17,2011 ©Natural Resource Services, Inc. 2011 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B The infonnation contained in this report was acquired ethically by Natural Resource Services, Inc. through means and methods described herein and is certified as accurate to the best of our abilities. REPORT SUBMITTED BY: Stue It ~M Date: January 17,2011 Steve C. Johnson, Principal Natural Resource Services, Inc. P.O. Box 861 Longmont, CO 80502--861 303.915.32111800.242.9466 FAX: 720.652.4792 E-mail: nrsi@nrsisenJices.com Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 2 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B CONTENTS LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................................. 4 LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................................. 4 1.0 INTRODUCTION.............. : ............................................................................................................. 5 2.0 PROPERTY LOCATION ........................................................................................ ........................ 5 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ......................................... ... .... ... ..... .... .... ... ..................5 4.0 ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDY REQUIREMENTS . .... .... ..... ..... .. ..... ....... 5 5.0 STUDY METHODS ............. .. .................................. .... ... .. ....... ........ ..... ... .. ..........7 6.0 DATE FIELD WORK WAS COMPLETED ................ ..... .... .. .......... ....... ........ . .... ........ 8 7.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ....................................................................................... ................ 8 7.1 Proximity to Designated Natural Areas or Open Space .......... .... .... . .. . . .... .. .. . ... ....... 8 7.2 Site Description ... ....................................... ................................................. ......... ............. 8 7.2.1 Site Conditions and Status ... ..... .. ... . ..... .......... ....... ... . ..... . .. . ... .... .. .....8 7.2.2 Existing Infrastructure ...... .... .................... .................................................. ...9 7.2.3 Topography....................... ............................. .....................................................9 7.2.4 Natural Habitats and Plant Communities ............................................... ............. 9 7.2.5 Wetlands and Riparian Areas ........................................................... ...................9 7.2.6 Wildlife.............................................................................................................. 10 7.2.7 Special Status Wildlife and Plant Species ..... .... .. .. .. .. ..... ... . ....... ... ....... 11 7.2.8 Noxious Weeds ................................................ ... ...... .... ....... .. .. .. 11 8.0 SUMMARy........... ....................................................... ....... . ... .... .. .. ..... ..... ..... 11 REFERENCES and LITERATURE CITED ............................................ .... ... .. .. ....... ... .. 12 NOTES .. ..... ... ...... .. ................................................................... .... ... .. .. . .......... .... 20 APPENDIX A - Site Photos ..................................................... ..... . .. .. .. .. .... . .. ....... ..... 21 Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17, 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 3 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Dominant plant species identified on December 21,2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. within Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development, City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado ............... 14 Table 2. Natural habitats and plant community types evaluated on December 21,2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. for presence/absence within and adjacent to Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado ..................................... ... ......... 15 Table 3. Special feature types evaluated on December 21,2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. for presence/absence within and adjacent to Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado ......................................................................... 16 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. General location of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado ............................................................... 17 Figure 2. Aerial photograph (2010) of the Ridgewood Hills/Shenandoah Neighborhood vicinity, City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado showing Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development and locations of natural habitats and plant community types and special features in the general area............................... ... .................................................................. 19 Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 4 Longmont, CO 80502·0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDY REPORT RIDGEWOOD HILLS RESIDENCES DEVELOPMENT TRACTS A and B as required by the City of Fort Collins Current Planning 281 North College Avenue Fort Collins, Colorado 80524 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following is an Ecological Characterization Study (ECS) report for the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in Fort Collins, Colorado. The ECS was completed by Natural Resource Services, Inc. (NRSI) as a requirement under Article 3, Section 3.4.1 of the Fort Collins Land Use Code (City of Fort Collins 2010). In general, Section 3.4.1 requires an ECS for development sites which are located in close proximity to significant natural habitats or features which have been previously identified and mapped or which are discovered during site evaluations andlor reconnaissance associated with the development review process. This report is intended to describe conditions within and adjacent to the proposed project site at the time of a site visit conducted by NRSI on December 21,2010. 2.0 PROPERTY LOCATION The proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development is located approximately 1200 feet west of South College Avenue (U.S. Highway 287) and at the extreme south end of the City of Fort Collins in Larimer County, Colorado (Figure 1). The center of the property lies at approximately 400 29' 00" North latitude and 1050 OS' 00" West longitude. The proposed development site includes two tracts (Tracts A and B) (Figure 2) which lie immediately east ofTriangle Drive and immediately north of Peyton Drive, streets which are located within the Ridgewood Hills Subdivision. The Avondale RoadlTriangle Drive traffic circle lies immediately west of Tracts A and B and a spur of Avondale Road extends southeast between Tracts A and B for approximately 200 feet (Figure 2). 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development is planned to include multifamily residential structures with amenities to be constructed entirely within the boundaries of the aforementioned Tracts A and B. 4.0 ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDY REQUIREMENTS Article 3, Division 3.4, Section 3.4.1 of the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code (the Code) requires an Ecological Characterization Study to be completed "ifany portion ofthe development site is within five hundred (500) feet ofan area or feature identified as a natural habitat or feature on the city's Natural Habitats and Features Inventory Map, or ifany portion ofthe development site possesses characteristics (including, without limitation, wetlands, riparian areas orfoothills forest) which would have supported their inclusion on the ljatural Habitats and Features Inventory Map, and such areas are discovered during site evaluation and/or reconnaissance associated with the development review process". As specified in Article 3, Section 3.4.1, such Natural Habitats and communities include the following: Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17, 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 5 Longmont, CO 80502·0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B (a) Aquatic (e.g., rivers, streams, lakes, ponds); (b) Wetland and wet meadow; (c) Native grassland; (d) Riparian forest; (e) Urban plains forest; (f) Riparian shrubland; and (g) Foothills forest In addition, Special Features specified in Article 3, Section 3.4.1 of the Code include: (a) Significant remnants of native plant communities; (b) Potential habitats and known locations ofrare, threatened or endangered plants; (c) Potential habitats and known locations ofrare, threatened or endangered animals; (d) Raptor habitat features, including nest sites, communal roost sites and key concentration areas; (e) Concentration areas for nesting and migratory shorebirds and waterfowl; (f) Migratory songbird concentration areas; (g) Key nesting areas for grassland birds; (h) Fox and coyote dens; (i) Mule deer winter concentration areas; G) Prairie dog colonies over fifty (50) acres in size; (k) Concentration areas for rare, migrant or resident butterflies; (1) Areas ofhigh terrestrial or aquatic insect diversity; (m) Areas of significant geological or paleontological interest; and (n) Irrigation ditches that serve as wildlife corridors. The Code also states the purpose and requirements for an Ecological Characterization Study in Section 3.4.1, Paragraphs B through D as follows: "(8) Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to ensure that when property is developed consistent with its zoning designation, the way in which the proposed physical elements of the development plan are designed and arranged on the site will protect the natural habitats and features both on the site and in the vicinity of the site. "(C) General Sumdard. To the maximum extent feasible, the development plan shall be designed and arranged to be compatible with and to protect natural habitats and features and the plants and animals that inhabit them and integrate them within the developed landscape of the community by: (I) directing development away from sensitive resources, (2) minimizing impacts and disturbance through the use ofbuffer zones, (3) enhancing existing conditions, or (4) restoring or replacing the resource value lost to the community (either on-site or off-site) when a development proposal will result in the disturbance of natural habitats or features. "CD) Ecological Characterization and Natural Habitflt or Feature Boundary Definition. The boundary of any natural habitat or feature shown on the Natural Habitats and Features Inventory Map is only approximate. The actual boundary of any area to be shown on a project development shall be proposed by the applicant and established by the Director through site evaluations and reconnaissance, and shall be based on the ecological characterization of the natural habitat or feature in conjunction with the map. (1) Ecological Characterization Study. If the development site contains, or is within five hundred (500) feet of, a natural habitat or feature, or if it is determined by the Director, upon information or from inspection, that the site likely includes areas with wildlife, plant life and/or other natural characteristics in need of protection, then the developer shall provide to the city an ecological characterization report prepared by a professional qualified in the areas of ecology, wildlife biology or other relevant discipline. The Director may waive any or all ofthe following elements of this requirement if the city already possesses adequate information required by this subsection to establish the buffer zone(s), as set forth in subsection (E) below, and the limits of development ("LOD"), as set forth in subsection (N) below. The ecological characterization study shall describe, without limitation, the following: Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17, 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 6 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B (a) the wildlife use of the area showing the species of wildlife using the area, the times or seasons that the area is used by those species and the "value" (meaning feeding, watering, cover, nesting, roosting, perching) that the area provides for such wildlife species; (b) the boundary ofwetlands in the area and a description of the ecological functions and characteristics provided by. those wetlands; (c) any prominent views from or across the site; (d) the pattern, species and location of any significant native trees and other native site vegetation; (e) the bank, shoreline and high water mark of any perennial stream or body ofwater on the site; (f) areas inhabited by or frequently utilized by Sensitive and Specially Valued Species; (g) special habitat features; (h) wildlife movement corridors; (i) the general ecological functions provided by the site and its features; (j) any issues regarding the timing ofdevelOpment-related activities stemming from the ecological character of the area; and (k) any measures needed to mitigate the projected adverse impacts of the development project on natural habitats and features. (2) Wetland Boundary Delineation. In establishing the boundaries of a wetland, the applicant and the Director shall use soil samples, ecological characterization and hydrological evidence, to the extent that such are in existence or are requested of and provided by the applicant. The Director may also utilize the standards and guidelines andlor the professional recommendations of the U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, andlor the Colorado Division ofWildlife in establishing such boundaries. Wetland boundary delineations shall be established in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wetland classification system and shall be identified in the submittal documents for the review ofthe project development plan (if applicable, or if not applicable, the most similar development review) and prior to commencement of any construction activities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers standards and guidelines shall be used to identifY the boundaries of any "jurisdictional wetland." The full text of Article 3, Section 3.4.1 of the Code can be accessed through the City of Fort Collins website or directly from the publisher at http://www.colocode.comlftcollins/landuse/article3.htm. For the purposes of completing this study, the specific definitions and requirements, as enumerated in the Code and as stated above were used as a guide. 5.0 STUDY METHODS The following procedures were implemented to complete the Ecological Characterization Study. 5.1 Field Assessment An onsite field assessment was completed by Steve C. Johnson ofNatural Resource Services, Inc. during the afternoon ofDecember 21, 2010. At that time, the entire site and surrounding buffer areas were walked and notes and photographs were taken. 5.2 Data Search Project research was completed between December 21,2010 and January 7,2011. Research was conducted through the City of Fort Collins website to obtain data related to locations and characteristics of City Natural Areas and Natural Habitats and Communities as well as any Special Features which may have been previously identified near the Ridgewood Hills project site. In addition, special status wildlife and plant species databases kept by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Lakewood, Colorado and the Colorado Natural Heritage Inventory in Fort Collins, Colorado were checked for identified locations ofrare, threatened and endangered species in close proximity to the project site. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17. 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 7 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood HiUs Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B 5.3 Mapping Site assessment data and data obtained from other sources were mapped onto recent aerial photography base maps using ArcGIS 10 Geographic Information System (GIS) software. Distances presented in this report were computed using the ArcGIS software. 6.0 DATE FIELD WORK WAS COMPLETED A site assessment was conducted at the project site by Steve C. Johnson ofNRSI on December 21, 2010. At that time, the entire site and surrounding buffer areas were walked and notes and photographs were taken. It should be noted that site review process scheduling necessitated that the site assessment be completed during the winter dormant season. Therefore, a complete inventory of plant and animal species indigenous to the site during the warmer months was not possible. 7.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The following is a presentation of the results of the ECS and a discussion of those results. 7.1 Proximity to Designated Natural Areas or Open Space Two natural areas managed by the City of Fort Collins are located in the vicinity of Ridgewood Hills. The closest is Pelican Marsh Natural Area which is approximately 1300 feet northeast of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences project site (Figure 2). Pelican Marsh NA surrounds Robert Benson Lake and is notable for its use by white pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) and, at times, bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). The second City of Fort Collins Natural Area in close proximity to the project site is Colina Mariposa Natural Area which is located approximately 1640 feet west of the proposed project site. Colina Mariposa is noted for its use by a number of species of native butterflies during certain seasons of the year. In addition, Long View Farm Open Space is located approximately 620 feet south of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences project site (Figure 2). Long View Farm Open Space is managed by Larimer County and is leased for agricultural use. Finally, Homestead Park is located approximately 1296 feet northwest of the Ridgewood Hills Residences project site. Homestead Park is a community park situated within the Ridgewood Hills/Shenandoah subdivision. 7.2 Site Description The Ridgewood Hills Residences development site can be generally characterized as rolling to hilly former tall grass prairie grassland which apparently was historically utilized for ranching and/or farming activity. The inspection performed by NRSI during the site assessment on December 21, 2010, identified broken concrete, rebar and other debris strewn about portions ofTracts A and B which could be the remains of old structures which were formerly used at the site or possibly waste material which had been dumped at the site in the past. In any case, no part of the two tracts appeared to be occupied by unaltered natural ecosystems. 7.2.1 Site Conditions and Status Tracts A and B of the project site appeared to have historically been utilized as ranch or farmland. At the time of the site visit the tracts were overgrown with native and non-native grass and forb plant species with widely scattered native and non-native shrubs and tree saplings (see photos in Appendix Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17, 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 8 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B A). Dominant plant species were non-natives but a few native grass, shrub and tree species were present (Table 1). Small patches ofbare earth, exposed sandstone substrate and waste debris consisting of small pieces of concrete, steel rebar and other man-made waste materials were scattered throughout the site giving the appearance that buildings or other structures had been present on the site in the past. Panoramic views looking east and southeast from the site could be characterized as having some scenic qualities (see Appendix A). 7.2.2 Existing Infrastructure The only infrastructure which was identified within Tracts A and B of the proposed project site included a short curbed extension of Avondale Road (Figure 2), a fire hydrant located at the east end of the Avondale Road extension, and a drainage swale with a culverted outlet which is located along the south boundary of and within Tract A and just north of the houses lining the north side of Peyton Drive (Figures 2). 7.2.3 Topography Topography in the vicinity of the project site could be characterized as rolling to fairly steeply hilly. The terrain appeared to vary by no more than 25 to 30 feet in elevation throughout the two tracts, however. Some low relief rocky outcrops of sandstone substrate were evident in portions of Tracts A and B (Figure 2). 7.2.4 Natural Habitats and Plant Communities Habitats within Tract B and the east end of Tract A of the project site consisted almost entirely of grassland composed primarily of smooth brome (Bromopsis inermis), an introduced species, mixed with a few native grass species such as western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) and Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides) (see photos in Appendix A). Scattered native and non-native forb species were also present throughout the entire site as were some noxious weed species which are listed on the Colorado and Larimer County Noxious Weed Lists (see paragraph 7.2.8 below). Some areas in Tract B and most of the south half of Tract A were dominated by non-native forbs such as sweetclover (Melilotus sp.) and field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis). Only within a few very small scattered sites were native grasses dominant anywhere within the two tracts. See Table 1 for a list of plant species identified within the two tracts of the project site. In addition to the herbaceous species, a few small plains cottonwoods (Populus deltoides) were located at the north end of the site (Figure 2 and Appendix A) and rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), a native shrub, was sparsely scattered throughout the site. A couple of Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) saplings, a non-native species, were also identified at the southeast end of Tract B. It should be noted that since the development plan review process scheduling required that the project site assessment be completed during the winter dormant season, a number ofplant species which are present at the site during the growing season were undoubtedly missed during the December 21 site inventory. 7.2.5 Wetlands and Riparian Areas No wetlands, as defmed by the u .S. Army Corps of Engineers (Environmental Laboratory 1987 and Cowardin et. al 1979), were identified within either of the two tracts composing the proposed project site (Tables 2 and 3). Low quality palustrine emergent wetlands were identified, however, along a secondary irrigation ditch located approximately 250 feet southeast of Tract A (see Photo 3 in Appendix A) and within a storm water detention area located approximately 450 feet south ofTract A. The low variety of plant species occupying the irrigation ditch corridor included beaked sedge Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17, 2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 9 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B (Carex utriculata), a native species; American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), a native species; smooth brome, choke cherry (Prunus virginiana), a native species; and plains cottonwoods of all sizes. Wetlands within the detention area were occupied primarily by thick stands of common cattails (Typha lati/olia), a native species. The detention area south of the project site, the swale area on the south side ofTract A and the west end ofTract A had been mowed sometime in the fall months prior to the December 21 site visit. 7.2.6 Wildlife Wildlife species expected to utilize the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences site in its present state could include year round use by various species ofsmall rodents including mice, voles, rats and pocket gophers (Geomys bursarius); cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus auduboni), several species of shrews (Sorex sp.); seasonal and/or year round use by a number of species of grassland songbirds which might include meadow larks (Sturn ella neglecta), homed larks (Eremophila alpestris), mourning doves (Zenaidura macroura), sparrows, some warblers, ring-necked pheasants (Phaseanus colchicus), magpies (Pica pica), swifts and swallows, crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), ravens (Corvus corax), turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), and others; year round use by small and medium sized predators such as long-tailed weasels (Mustelafrenata), red foxes (Vulpesfulva) and coyotes (Canis latrans); year round and seasonal use by several species of rap tors which might include red­ tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), sparrow hawks (Falco sparverius), prairie falcons (Falco mexicanus), Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni), harriers (Circus cyaneus), golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), and some species of owls; seasonal use by several species ofbats; and year round use by some species of reptiles including bull snakes (Pituophis melanoleucus)(see Tables 2 and 3). Evidence of an indigenous rodent population was noted during the site visit with the observation of numerous rodent trails in the grass and numerous entrance holes to sub-surface burrows throughout the site. Raptors would probably utilize the site primarily for hunting rodents and small birds, especially during the warmer months. Some suitable nesting sites for hawks and owls were identified in the larger cottonwoods adjacent to the project site, but no nests, old or new, were located within 500 feet of either Tract A or B during the site visit, however. 7.2.7 Special Status Wildlife and Plant Species No special status plant or animal species were observed during the site visit nor was suitable habitat observed for any listed special status species which may occur in the Fort Collins area such as the Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius prebleii)(Table 3). u.S. Fish and Wildlife - Service records indicated that the nearest confirmed population of Preble's Mouse was located in the vicinity of Horsetooth Reservoir which is over four miles northwest of the project site (pers. comm. with Pete Plage on December 24,2010). Bald eagles, a protected species which was recently on the federal Threatened Species List, have been observed in recent years within the Pelican Marsh Natural Area in the vicinity of Robert Benson Lake approximately 1300 feet northeast of the project site, but no habitat for that species, other than potential nesting sites in large cottonwood trees adjacent to the project area, exists within either of the tracts associated with the Ridgewood Hills Residences project. A better estimate ofhabitat conditions at the site could be made during the summer months, but in our best professional judgment, no suitable habitat for listed special status species exists within or immediately adjacent to the project site. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page JO Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B 7.2.8 Noxious Weeds State and locally listed noxious weeds identified within Tracts A and B included Canada thistle (Breea arvense) and field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) scattered through both tracts as well as one small area ofdiffuse knapweed (Centaurea difJusa) identified within Tract A (Table 1). 8.0 SUMMARY A site visit within the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences project site was completed by Steve Johnson ofNRSI on December 21,2010 during which the entire site was thoroughly walked and photographed. In addition, and subsequent to the site visit, background data relating to the project site and the surrounding area was compiled from various agencies including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, Larimer County, and the City of Fort Collins. No federal or state listed special status plant or animal species are listed by any of those agencies as being known to occur within 1000 feet of the site. The Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse is known to occur in the Horsetooth Reservoir area which is over four miles from the Ridgewood Hills project site. No suitable potential habitat for that species was identified within 500 feet of the project site, however. No raptor nests were identified during the site visit within or adjacent to the project site. The entire project site can be characterized as degraded prairie grassland with non-native grasses predominating. A few small trees and shrubs are scattered throughout the site. At least three listed noxious weed species are present within the site. No wetlands or riparian corridors exist within the site but some low quality wetland habitat is present within 500 feet of the site. A secondary irrigation ditch located approximately 250 feet southeast ofTract A could serve as a wildlife movement corridor. Views to the east from the three tracts constituting the project site could be characterized as scenic. No other special features or significant natural habitats, as identified in the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code were identified within the site during the site visit conducted on December 21,2010. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 11 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B REFERENCES and LITERATURE CITED Carter, Jack L. 1988. Trees and shrubs of Colorado. Johnson Books, Boulder, Colorado. 165 pp. City of Fort Collins. 2011. Land Use Code of Fort Collins, Article 3. Colorado Code Publishing Company. Accessed January 3, 2011 through the Colorado Code Publishing Company Internet site URL at http://www.colocode.com/ftcollinsllanduse/artic1e3.htm . Colorado Department of Agriculture. 2011. Colorado noxious weed list. Accessed January 6,2011 through the Colorado Dept. of Agriculture internet site URL at http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/ Agriculture-MainlCDAG/1174084048733 . Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, and E. T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Biological Services, U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 131 pp. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps ofEngineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, Teclmical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterway Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. 166 pp. Fitzgerald, J.P., C.A. Meaney, and D.M. Armstrong. 1994. Mammals of Colorado. Denver Museum ofNatural History and University Press of Colorado, Denver, Colorado. Higgins, K. F., J. L. Oldemeyer, K. J. Jenkins, G. K. Clambey, and R. F. Harlow. 1994. Vegetation sampling and measurement. Pages 567-591 in Theodore A. Bookhout, ed. Research and Management Techniques for Wildlife and Habitats. The Wildlife Society, Bethesda, MD. Pp. 567-591. Hitchcock, A. S. Revised by Agnes Chase. 1971. Manual of the grasses of the United States, Second edition, Vol. I and II. Dover Publications, Inc., New York, NY. 1051 pp. Kershaw, L., A. MacKinnon and J. Pojar. 1998. Plants of the Rocky Mountains. Lone Pine Publishing, #206, 10426-81 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 384 pp. Reed, P.B., Jr. 1988. National list ofplant species that occur in wetlands: 1988 national summary. Prepared for USFWS National Wetland Inventory, Ecological Section. Washington, DC. ____. 1996. National list of plant species that occur in wetlands: 1996 national summary. Prepared for USFWS National Wetland Inventory, Washington, DC. Royer, France and Richard Dickinson. 1999. Weeds of the northern U.S. and Canada. The Univ. of Alberta Press, Edmonton, Alberta and Lone Pine Publishing, Renton, Washington. 434 pp. Shaw, Robert B. 2008. Grasses of Colorado. University Press of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado. 647 pp. U.S. Department of Agriculture. 1971. Common weeds of the United States. Republication of selected weeds of the United States by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (1970). Dover Publications, Inc., New York. 463 pp. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 12 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills' Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Weber, W.A. and R.C. Wittman. 2001. Colorado flora: eastern slope. Third edition. University Press of Colorado. Boulder, Colorado. 488 pp. Whitson, Tom D., L.C. Burrill, S.A. Dewey, D.W. Cudney, B.E. Nelson, R.D. Lee, and R. Parker. 2001. Weeds of the West, 9th Ed. Western Society of Weed Science. P.O. Box 963, Newark, Calif. Grand Teton Lithography, Jackson, WY. 628 pp. Wingate, Janet L. 1994. Illustrated keys to the grasses of Colorado. Wingate Consulting, Denver, Colorado. 78 pp. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 13 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 · Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Table 1. Dominant plant species identified on December 21, 2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. within Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development, City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado.s Species Names Common Name Species Origin Comments Tree and Shrub Species: Chrysothamnus nauseosus Rabbitbrush Native Sparsely scattered throughout all Tracts. Populus deltoides Plains cottonwood Native A few small trees at the north end of Tract B. Prunus virginiana Choke cherry Native A few small shrubs in Tract B. Ulmus pumila Siberian elm Non-native One 8 Ft. tall sapling present in Tract B. Grasses. Sedges. Rushes & Grasslike Species: Achnatherum hymenoidees Indian ricegrass Native Scattered throughout the site. Agropyron cristatum Crested wheatgrass Non-native Small amount at top ofslope. Bromopsis inennis Smooth brome Non-native Predominant throughout the northern and eastern portions of the site. Festuca pratensis Common fescue Non-native Dominant in the swale along the south edge ofTract A. Panicum capillare Witchgrass Native Scattered throughout the swale at the south edge of Tract A. Pascopyrum smithii Western wheatgrass Native Predominant along the west side of Tract A. Forb Species: Achillea lanulosa Yarrow Native Scattered throughout the site. Aster sp. Aster Native Scattered throughout the site. Breea (Cirsium) arvense Canada thistle Non-native Scattered throughout the site. Centaurea diffusa Diffuse knapweed Non-native Central portion of the site. Convolvulus arvensis Field bindweed Non-native Scattered throughout the site and common along the south edge of Tract A. Lactuca seriola Prickly lettuce Non-native Scattered near disturbed areas throughout the site. Medicago sativa Alfalfa Non-native Scattered throughout the site. Melilotus sp. Sweetclover Non-native Predominant throughout Tract A. Rumex crispus Curly dock Non-native Common along the swale at the south edge of the site and scattered throughout both tracts. aField assessment was completed during the dormant season so the species list is probably incomplete. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 14 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Table 2. Natural habitats and plant commnnity types evaluated on December 21, 2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. for presence/absence within or within 500 feet of Tracts A and B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado (see Figure 2)a Present within or immediately adjacent (within 500 feet) to Tracts A and B? Community TyPe" (YeslNo) Comments Aquatic (e.g. rivers, No None was present within 500 feet of Tracts A or B. streams, lakes, ponds) Wetland and Wet Meadow Yes None was present within Tracts A or B. The community type was present in a constructed storm water detention area approximately 450 feet south afTract A and along a constructed irrigation ditch approximately 250 feet southeast of Tract A. Native Grassland Yes A few very small low quality patches of native grassland were present within both tracts but both tracts were dominated by non-native grass and forb species. Riparian Forest No No riparian forest was present within either Tracts A or B. Some marginal riparian forest was present along irrigation ditches within 500 feet ofTract A. Urban Plains Forest No No urban plains forest was present within 500 feet of either of the tracts. Riparian Shrubland Yes No riparian shrubland was present in either of the tracts. Some marginal riparian shrub land was identified along the irrigation ditch corridor approximately 250 feet southeast of Tract A. Foothills Forest No None present in the vicinity of the site. ' Community types which were evaluated are those listed in Article 3, Division 3.4, Section 3.4.1, Paragraph A, Sub­ paragraph I of the Fort Collins Land Use Code as amended (Fort Collins 2010). Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 15 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Table 3. Special feature types evaluated on December 21, 2010 by Natural Resource Services, Inc. for presence/absence within or within 500 feet of Tracts A or B of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado. (see Figure 2)a Present within or immediately adjacent (within 500 feet) to Tracts A or B? Special Feature Type a (YeslNo) Comments Significant remnants of native No Some very small sparse native grass stands were plant communities present within Tracts A and B and immediately adjacent to the tracts. Both tracts were dominated by non-native grass and forb species. Potential habitats and known No None were present within Tracts A or B or locations of rare, threatened or within 500 feet of the tracts. endangered plants Potential habitats and known No None were present within Tracts A or B or locations of rare, threatened or within 500 feet of the tracts. A palustrine endangered animals emergent (PEM) wetland was identified within a storm water detention swale approximately 450 feet south of Tract A but this area did not appear to be suitable habitat for T &E species. Raptor habitat features, No No raptor nests were observed within or in the including nest sites, communal vicinity of the project tracts. A few large roost sites and key concentration cottonwood trees which could be potential areas nesting sites were observed within 500 feet of the tracts to the east and the south. Some marginal riparian forest was present along an irrigation ditch within 500 feet of Tract A. Concentration areas for nesting No No shorebird or waterfowl habitat was present and migratory shorebirds and within 1300 feet of either Tracts A or B. waterfowl Migratory songbird No None were present within the project site or in concentration areas the vicinity of the site. Key nesting areas for grassland No No important nesting areas were present within birds the project site or in the vicinity of the site. Fox and coyote dens No None were observed within Tracts A or B. Dens could exist in the vicinity of the project site, however. Mule deer winter concentration No None were present within the project site or in areas the vicinity of the site. Prairie dog colonies over fifty No None were present within the project site or in (50) acres in size the vicinity of the site. Concentration areas for rare, No None were present within the project site or in migrant or resident butterflies the vicinity of the site. Areas ofhigh terrestrial or No None were present within the project site or in aguatic insect diversity the vicinity of the site. Areas of significant geological No None were known to be present within the or paleontological interest project site or in the vicinity of the site. Inigation ditches that serve as Yes A secondary irrigation ditch was present . wildlife corridors approximately 250 feet southeast of Tract A. The ditch and its vegetated corridor probably serve as a suitable wildlife corridor for small predators and rodent species. 'Special feature types which were evaluated are those listed in Article 3, Division 3.4, Section 3.4.1, Paragraph A, Sub­ paragraph 1 of the Fort Collins Land Use Code as amended (Fort Collins 2010). Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B TOP()' map pnnred on 09/06{09 from "Untltlea.tpo" Figure 1. General location of the proposed Ridgewood Hills Residences development in the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 17 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B NOTES Naruml Resource Services, lnc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 19 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Appendix A Site Photos Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 20 Longmont, CO 80502·0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Photo 1. Ridgewood Hills Residences Tract B looking north on December 21, 2010 from the east end ofAvondale Road. Curly dock, rabbitbrush, asters, and smooth brome are the dominant species. Several small cottonwood saplings are evident in the distance. Phot02. Ridgewood Hills Residences looking east from Tract A on December 21,2010. A thick stand of sweetc10ver is evident in the foreground. The grassland in the distance is outside project site. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 21 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Photo 3. Looking south from Ridgewood Hills Residences Tract A on December 21,2010. The off site irrigation ditch is evident at the upper left of the photo. The detention area is located behind the houses on the right. Long View Farm Open Space is located in the distance behind the trees. Photo 4. Looking north from off site at Tract A on December 21,2010. The easternmost house on Peyton Drive is located immediately to the left in the photo. The mowed drainage swale in Tract A of the Ridgewood Hills Residences project is immediately north of the fence. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O . Box 861 Page 22 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Ecological Characterization Study Report Ridgewood Hills Residences, Project Development Plan Tracts A and B Photo 5. Ridgewood Hills Residences Tract A looking west from the east end of the tract. The mowed drainage swale is evident in the center of the photo. The south boundary ofTract A is evident along the fence at left. Photo 6. Ridgewood Hills Residences Tract B looking east northeast from the east end of Avondale Road on December 21, 2010. The trees in the distance are outside the project area. The vegetation in the foreground is mostly smooth brame with scattered field bindweed interspersed. Pelican Marsh Natural Area and Robert Benson Lake are located beyond the houses in the far distance. Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 23 Longmont, CO 80502-0861 Natural Resource Services, Inc. January 17,2011 P.O. Box 861 Page 16 Longmont, CO 80502-0861