2012-03-07_PERMIT FILE - C2010088 (19)

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The Grand Valley maintains a viable population of Barn Owls. Nest sites are often found in high, steep banks along washes in the agricultural portion of the Valley. Nests are typically constructed in holes in the banks. The banks along Reed Wash are composed of soils that do not appear suitable for Barn Owl; the banks are generally not steep enough and the soils are too sandy. A pair of Northern Harriers was observed flying over Reed Wash in May 2010. The wetland vegetation along Reed Wash and the wetlands (formed by irrigation returns) on the west boundary of project area in the Loma Drain area is suitable habitat. However, cattle grazing on the west side of Reed Wash may reduce the potential for Northern Harrier nesting, since this species nests on the ground, typically in dense wetland vegetation. 3.2.3 Waterfowl: Surveys indicate that Reed Wash is suitable and occupied waterfowl habitat. Mallards were the only species observed; however, other species likely use the area, particularly during the winter when migrants are present. No mallard nests were found, but nesting is probably occurring within the riparian vegetation bordering Reed Wash. One Canada goose nest was found during surveys along the banks of Reed Wash (Photo 6). No Canada geese were observed in the area during the field surveys and nesting is likely low due to the presence of predators such as coyote, raccoon and fox. The riparian vegetation provides cover but the narrow corridor provides a good searching opportunity for predators seeking prey. Other waterfowl species using Reed Wash would likely include American Wigeon, Gadwall, Green - winged and Blue- winged Teal. 3.3 REPTILES is 3.3.1 Snakes: The shrubland vegetation in association with riparian vegetation along Reed Wash is suitable habitat for snakes. Seven species could potentially be found in the project area (Table 7). One western terrestrial garter snake was found along Reed Wash; no other snakes were observed during surveys. Rodent, amphibian, fish and insect populations in the greasewood and riparian habitat provide a forage base for the species potentially occurring in the project area. Table 7. Snake species likely occurring within the McClane Canyon Loadout Facility project area. Common Name —T—scientific __F Name Occurrence Observed Species Western terrestrial garter snake Thamno his ele ans One specimen observed along Reed Wash in the project area. Potential Specie Bull snake Pituo his melanoleucus Likely to occur in project area in all habitat types Corn Snake Ela he guttata Likely to occur in project area in all habitat types 16