CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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3 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Port St. Lucie (City) is conducting a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study to evaluate new interchange ramps at Crosstown Parkway and Interstate 95 (I-95) in the City, St. Lucie County, Florida. The need to provide connections to the interstate highway system is driven by extraordinary growth in the City, and proposed growth west of I-95. The forecasted future demands reflect an additional 200,000 people by 2030 and over 26 million square feet of non-residential development just within the City limits of Port St Lucie and in the newly annexed areas west of I-95. This will add several hundred thousand new vehicles each day to the area roadway and interchange network. Associated with the growth being approved by the City for areas west of I-95, a series of new roadways are proposed to be constructed by 2010 with ultimate 2025 roadway improvements. By 2025 Crosstown Parkway is programmed as a four-lane roadway from Range Line Road to west of Community Boulevard where it will transition to a six-lane roadway and continue as a six-lane facility to Floresta Drive. The proposed bridge over I-95 will be constructed as a six-lane facility. A new bridge at Crosstown Parkway and Florida s Turnpike is currently under construction. Although most of these improvements are programmed for 2010, the City will be advancing the proposed Crosstown Parkway improvements to be completed by In addition, the City has accelerated selected components of the 2025 improvements including six-laning Becker Road just east of I-95 to just west of Community Boulevard. For this PD&E Study, all of these improvements are planned to be complete by 2010, and for this study will be considered existing and will define the No Build Alternative for all study years. Using the proposed roadway network outlined above, a System Interchange Justification Report (SIJR) dated March 27, 2006, was prepared for this project. The report recommended a tight diamond interchange at Crosstown Parkway and I-95, as well as a tight diamond interchange at Becker Road and I- 95. The SIJR evaluated the complete I-95 interchange system from St. Lucie West Boulevard south to Martin Highway (SR 714), and determined that the two proposed interchange locations along with the three existing interchanges would meet the projected future traffic demand in the area. The purpose of this report is to present the findings of an endangered species biological assessment for the proposed interchange area. The assessment was conducted using field investigations, agency coordination, and mapped resources. Field surveys were conducted on November 5, 2004, March 11, 2005, and April 10, The surveys qualitatively documented the existing flora and fauna throughout the study area, to assess the land use patterns in the project area, and to examine the habitats for threatened and endangered species. Most of the lands in the northern half of the project area are highly disturbed. The northwestern quadrant is under development for residential land uses. Much of the upland habitat in the southern quadrants can be described as Scrubby Flatwoods. Three depression wetlands are located within the flatwoods habitats. There are no recorded occurrences of listed threatened or endangered species within the project area. A list of potential plant and animal species that could occur in the project area was examined to assess their likelihood of occurrence. Fifteen plant and eighteen animal species protected by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC), or the Florida Executive Summary i

4 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services were determined to potentially occur within the project area. No State or Federal listed plant species were observed and the specialized habitat that would support the listed plants was not present in the project area. The proposed project would have no effect on any listed plant species. The exotic dominated scrubby flatwoods and the depression wetlands could potentially provide habitat for several listed wildlife species. These include the gopher tortoise, eastern indigo snake, gopher frog, Florida pine snake, Florida mouse, American alligator, little blue heron, reddish egret, snowy egret, tricolored heron, white ibis and wood stork. The project area is within the core foraging area of documented nesting colonies of wood storks. The C-24 Canal and the freshwater wetlands may provide foraging or resting habitat for wading birds and wood storks. The habitat provided by the C-24 Canal would not be affected by the construction of the interchange. The wetlands would be minimally affected. The proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect these State and Federal listed animal species. However, no State or Federal listed wildlife species were observed during field investigations. Executive Summary ii

5 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Description Page Number 1.0 INTRODUCTION PROJECT NEED PROJECT DESCRIPTION ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY HABITAT DESCRIPTIONS FRESHWATER WETLANDS SURFACE WATERS AND AQUATIC COMMUNITIES TERRESTRIAL HABITATS LISTED SPECIES LISTED PLANTS Lakela s Mint (Dicerandra immaculata) Tiny Polygala (Polygala smallii) Four-petal Pawpaw (Asimina tetramera) Large-flowered False Rosemary (Conradina grandiflora) Airplants (Tillandsia spp.) Perforated Reindeer Moss (Cladonia perforata) Florida Butterfly Orchid (Encyclia tampensis) Nodding Pinweed (Lechea cernua) Hand Fern (Ophioglossum palmatum) Erect Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta) Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnomonea) and Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) LISTED ANIMALS Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) Eastern Indigo Snake (Drymarchon corais couperi) Gopher Frog (Rana capito) Florida Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitis) Florida Mouse (Podomys floridanus) American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) Florida Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis) Herons Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus lecocephalus) Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) Audubon s Crested Caracara (Polyborus plancus audobonii) Arctic Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius) Southeastern American Kestrel (Falco sparverius paulus) Everglades Snail Kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus) Sherman s Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger shermanii) IMPACT ANALYSIS COORDINATION BIBLIOGRAPHY Table of Contents iii

6 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Table of Contents (continued) LIST OF FIGURES Section Description Page Number FIGURE 1.1 PROJECT LOCATION... 3 FIGURE 2.1 YEAR 2025 DEVELOPMENTS... 4 FIGURE 2.2 YEAR 2010 WESTERN ANNEXATION ROADWAYS... 5 FIGURE 2.3 YEAR 2025 WESTERN ANNEXATION ROADWAYS... 6 FIGURE 2.4 EXISTING ROADWAY CONDITIONS... 7 FIGURE 3.1 PROPOSED INTERCHANGE... 9 FIGURE 3.2 RAMP TYPICAL SECTION FIGURE 3.3 AUXILIARY LANE TYPICAL SECTION FIGURE 3.4 PROPOSED I95 BRIDGE OVER C-24 CANAL FIGURE 5.1 FLORIDA LAND USE, COVER AND FORMS CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FIGURE 5.2 FWS WETLAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM LIST OF TABLES Section Description Page Number TABLE 6.1 LISTED SPECIES RECORDED IN ST. LUCIE COUNTY APPENDICES APPENDIX A CORRESPONDENCE Table of Contents iv

7 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 1.0 INTRODUCTION The City of Port St. Lucie (City) is conducting the Crosstown Parkway/I-95 Interchange Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study to evaluate new interchange ramps at Crosstown Parkway (formerly known as West Virginia Drive) and I-95. The project is located between the existing I-95 interchanges at Gatlin and St. Lucie West Boulevards. The study area is primarily located in the City; a portion of the northwest quadrant is located in St. Lucie County, as indicated in Figure 1.1. As a part of this PD&E Study, an Endangered Species Biological Assessment (ESBA) is being prepared to present the findings of a biological assessment for the proposed interchange project study area. This report will meet the requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended. The ESA requires Federal agencies, in consultation with and with the assistance of the Secretary of the Department of Interior (DOI), to insure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat of such species. Under the law, the Secretary of the DOI, acting through the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), has broad powers to protect and conserve all forms of wildlife and plants, they find in serious jeopardy. 2.0 PROJECT NEED Currently, a mixture of new developments is located west of I-95 and residential development is located east of I-95. Eight approved/proposed Developments of Regional Impact (DRIs) are anticipated to add about 49,000 homes west of I-95 by As a result, the City has extended its boundaries further west and annexed areas extending westward to Range Line Road (CR 609) and north of Glades Cut-Off Road. The proposed development and the extent of the annexation area are shown in Figure 2.1. As part of the Southwest Quadrant Annexation Agreement (July 14, 2004) (a.k.a. Western Annexation) executed for the DRIs, a series of new roadways are proposed to be constructed west of I-95 by 2010 as shown in Figure 2.2 with ultimate 2025 roadway improvements shown in Figure 2.3. To provide improved east-west traffic movement through the City in this area, a new four-lane to six-lane roadway, Crosstown Parkway, is planned to extend from Range Line Road eastward to U.S. 1, a distance of approximately 12 miles. The six-lane section from Village Parkway to Floresta Drive, including bridges over I-95 and Florida s Turnpike, is funded by the City and was programmed to be completed by However, the City has accelerated the construction schedule with the completion date anticipated by Construction of the bridge over Florida s Turnpike began in February For this Study, this section of Crosstown Parkway, from Village Parkway to Floresta Drive, as presented in Figure 2.4 will be considered existing. Other commitments/studies are underway to complete the remaining western and eastern segments of Crosstown Parkway. As a part of an approved DRI agreement, a four-lane Crosstown Parkway will be extended from Village Parkway westward to Range Line Road by Additionally, a PD&E Study from Floresta Drive to U.S. 1 is currently underway to determine the location of a new bridge across the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. The City s population has grown rapidly from 14,700 in 1980 to over 130,000 in A projected increase to approximately 313,000 by 2030 is anticipated, including areas both east and west of I-95. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the City of Port St. Lucie is the nation s fastest growing city among those with Keith and Schnars P.A. 1

8 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT more than 100,000 people for the period from 2003 to As a result, the City currently issues over 650 single-family building permits a month. The permits are due primarily from the build-out of the 80,000 vested platted residential lots originally designed by General Development Corporation in the 1960s east of I-95. In addition to the build-out of these platted residential areas east of I-95, eight approved/proposed DRIs west of I-95 are anticipated to be near completion by The combination of these DRIs and the mostly built-out St. Lucie West DRI will collectively add over 57,000 homes; schools for over 26,000 students; and over 26,000,000 square feet of non-residential development, including industrial, commercial, office, civic, and institutional land uses. The existing I-95 interchanges located at St. Lucie West and Gatlin Boulevards, to the north and south, respectively, are inadequate to support the capacity demands of these developments. The System Interchange Justification Report (SIJR) prepared for this project recommended a tight diamond interchange at Crosstown Parkway and I-95 in order to help alleviate and improve existing and future traffic conditions within the City. Traffic modeling conducted as a part of the SIJR revealed traffic projections for the proposed interchange to be 23,300 Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) for opening year 2010 and 40,900 AADT for the year 2030, confirming the need for the proposed interchange. Based on the need for this project, the Crosstown Parkway/I-95 Interchange PD&E Study was initiated in order to study the potential environmental impacts of providing a new interchange on the surrounding area. The study will determine whether or not there are environmental impacts associated with a new interchange on the surrounding area, examine ways to avoid or minimize potential impacts, and to determine the project costs associated with building the new interchange. On June 1, 2005, the St. Lucie County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) voted to add this interchange to the needs list of the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). On February 1, 2006, the MPO approved the 2030 LRTP Update that included the Crosstown Parkway/I-95 interchange. Keith and Schnars P.A. 2

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13 north 95 Existing ROW Crosstown Parkway Existing I-95 Limited Access ROW Line MacKenzie St Bellevue Ave Azure Ave So uth wo rth Te rra ce Janette Ave D M W SF Banos Ave C 4-2 C z:\projects\graphics\psl\psl0393 al an CITY of PORT ST. LUCIE KEITH and SCHNARS, P.A. ENGINEERS, PLANNERS, SURVEYORS CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE Crosstown Parkway/I-95 Interchange PD&E Study Existing Roadway Conditions Figure No

14 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed interchange ramps will connect a six-lane Crosstown Parkway Bridge to I-95 forming a tight diamond interchange, as presented in Figure 3.1. The typical section, as presented in Figure 3.2, is identical for each of the four ramps. The elements that comprise this typical section include: 15-foot travel lane; Six-foot inside shoulder (two feet paved); and Six-foot outside shoulder (two feet paved). The distance from the edge of the outside shoulder to the right-of-way (ROW) line is 94 feet. A drainage swale is located within this area and Type B fence is located at the limited access ROW line. A northbound and a southbound 12-foot auxiliary lane on I-95 will be added between Crosstown Parkway and St. Lucie West Boulevard, as indicated in Figure 3.3. The southbound bridge over the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) C-24 Canal will be widened from three to four lanes to accommodate the interchange ramp from Crosstown Parkway to I-95, as indicated in Figure 3.4. The limits of the northbound exit ramp begins north of the bridge, therefore, widening of the northbound canal bridge is not required. 4.0 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY The following sources were utilized for field investigations to document habitats present in the study area and the potential occurrence of, and impacts to, listed species within the project study area. Aerial photographs dated 2003 and 2005 at a scale of 1" = 300'; United States Geological Service 7.5 minute quadrangle topographic maps; United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service Soil Survey, St. Lucie County; Various Geographic Information System (GIS) maps for the area; Written and verbal correspondence with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), FWS, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC), SFWMD, and the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI); Review of Florida Land Use, Cover and Forms Classification System (FLUCCS), Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), September 1985; Review of FWS federally listed candidate species and designated critical habitats occurrences in South Florida; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Endangered Species List for Florida; Review of the Field Guide to Rare Plants and Animals of Florida Online (Florida Natural Areas Inventory) by County; and Review of published and unpublished literature. Keith and Schnars P.A. 8

15 north PGA Village St. Lucie West (Lake Charles) 95 Existing ROW D C Crosstown Parkway A B Proposed Limited Access ROW Line Existing I-95 Limited Access ROW Line MacKenzie St Bellevue Ave Azure Ave So uth wo rth Te rra ce Janette Ave M W SF Banos Ave D C 4-2 Project Study Limits z:\projects\graphics\psl\psl0387 al an C CITY of PORT ST. LUCIE KEITH and SCHNARS, P.A. ENGINEERS, PLANNERS, SURVEYORS CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE Crosstown Parkway/I-95 Interchange PD&E Study Proposed Interchange Figure No

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19 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Field surveys were conducted by Keith and Schnars biologists on November 5, 2004, March 11, 2005, and April 10, 2006 to qualitatively document the existing flora and fauna, to assess the land use patterns, and to examine the habitats for threatened and endangered species. Habitats were classified using the definitions of FLUCCS and FWS (Cowardin et al. 1979). Boundaries between habitats were assessed using visual surveys of the habitats. Animal species observed (directly or indirectly) were also noted. Keith and Schnars P.A. 13

20 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 5.0 HABITAT DESCRIPTIONS In general, the project area can be characterized as a pine flatwoods community with three freshwater wetlands located within the flatwoods. Natural habitats are mapped using FLUCCS (Figure 5.1) and wetland habitats are classified using the FWS system (Figure 5.2). To be consistent with the Wetlands Evaluation Report, each wetland will be identified as an Assessment Area (AA). 5.1 FRESHWATER WETLANDS Three freshwater marshes were observed in the study area - two (AA1 and AA2) were located west of I-95 and one (AA3) was located east of I-95. The marshes are shallow, generally rounded depressions in sand substrate with vegetation in concentric bands and bordered by a band of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). Pine flatwoods (uplands) surround the wetlands, although in some places (AA2), the wetland is bordered by the invasive exotic, Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthefolius). AA 1, located in the southwest quadrant of the interchange, is a depressional marsh surrounded by pine flatwoods. On the days of the field investigations, the inner band had standing water and was dominated by maidencane (Panicum hemitomon), broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), and peelbark St. John s wort (Hypericum fasciculatum). The somewhat drier outer bands were dominated by swamp fern (Blechnum serrulatum), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), bloodroot (Lachnanthes caroliniana), corkwood (Stillingia aquatica), and yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.) in addition to lesser amounts of the species present in the inner band. AA2, located in the southwest quadrant of the interchange, is a hydrologically connected series of three depressional wetlands. It is similar to AA1 although the western one-third has areas of standing water dominated by buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) and coastal plains willow (Salix caroliniana). AA3, located in the southeast quadrant of the interchange, is a hydrologically connected pair of depressional wetlands surrounded by a thick band of saw palmetto. During the field investigations, the wetland had standing water and appeared to be inundated or saturated during most of the year. The center was dominated by a sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense) and emergent freshwater species, such as pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) and duck potato (Sagittaria latifolia). Shallower water areas were dominated by maidencane. The wetland has been damaged to some degree by all-terrain vehicles on the southern shore and by tracks through the wetland. Keith and Schnars P.A. 14

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23 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 5.2 SURFACE WATERS AND AQUATIC COMMUNITIES Three surface waters (SW) are located in the project area. The C-24 Canal (SW1) is located to the south of the proposed interchange. Two stormwater ponds, SW2 and SW3, are located in the northeast and northwest quadrants, respectively, of the proposed interchange. SW2 has steep rock-rubble banks and no littoral zone is present. The center of the pond has a colony of spatterdock (Nuphar lutea) and the pond edges have patches of maidencane and Peruvian primrose willow (Ludwigia peruviana). SW3 was recently constructed as part of the Montage Reserve development. The total area of each of the surface waters is 3.3 acres for SW2 and 1.5 acres for SW3. Calculating the total surface area of the C-24 Canal (SW1) is not feasible. Runoff from I-95 currently drains to SW2, which is also connected to the St. Lucie West development lake system via existing swales that drain to the north. This section was prepared in accordance with FDOT s PD&E Manual Part 2, Chapter 18 (4/14/99). The locations of surface waters are shown on Figures 5.1 and TERRESTRIAL HABITATS Most of the lands in the northern half of the project area are highly disturbed, as shown in Figure 5.1. The northwest quadrant is under development for residential land uses. Much of the upland habitat in the southern quadrants can be described as Scrubby Flatwoods. The southeast quadrant serves as upland mitigation lands for the City. The ROW required for the I-95 northbound ramp will require mitigation as outlined in the letter, dated September 9, 2005, from the City of Port St. Lucie, Director of Planning and Zoning, provided in Appendix A. The three wetlands described above are contained within the flatwoods habitats. The flatwoods have an open canopy consisting primarily of slash pines with a dense understory of gallberry (Ilex glabra), saw palmetto, wax myrtle, fetterbush (Lyonnia lucida), and rusty staggerbush (Lyonia ferruginea). The dense understory suggests this habitat is fire suppressed. The flatwoods east of I-95 have been impacted by all-terrain vehicles that have created a maze of trails within the forest. The areas adjacent to the C-24 Canal and along the western side of the I-95 ROW are dominated by nearly monotypic stands of dense Brazilian pepper. 6.0 LISTED SPECIES The state listed plant and animal species are maintained by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) and are categorized as endangered, threatened, and species of special concern. They constitute Rules , and , Florida Administrative Code (FAC). The state lists of plants are categorized into endangered, threatened and commercially exploited, and are administered and maintained by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) via Chapter 5B-40, FAC. The federal lists of animals and plants are administered by the FWS and categorized into endangered and threatened, and are published in 50 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) (fauna) and 50 CFR (flora). On March 29, 2005, the Advance Notification (AN) for the project was distributed to the FWS, the FFWCC, and other governmental agencies. According to the FWS response letter, dated April 21, 2005, there are no recorded occurrences of listed threatened or endangered species within the project area (see Appendix A). In addition to providing the listed species, Table 6.1 also includes those species that could occur in the project area due to the presence of habitats that could potentially support them. The following sections discuss the species listed. Keith and Schnars P.A. 17

24 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TABLE 6.1 LISTED SPECIES RECORDED IN ST. LUCIE COUNTY Scientific Name Common Name Agency Classification Plants Asimina tetramera Four-petal pawpaw FFWCC/FWS E Cladonia perforata Perforated reindeer moss FFWCC/FWS E Conradina grandiflora Large-flowered false rosemary FFWCC E Dicerandra immaculata Lakela s mint FFWCC/FWS E Encyclia tampensis Florida butterfly orchid FFWCC C Lechea cernua Nodding pinweed FFWCC T Ophioglossum palmatum Hand fern FFWCC E Opuntia stricta Erect prickly pear FFWCC T Osmunda cinnamonea Cinnamon fern FFWCC C Osmunda regalis Royal fern FFWCC C Polygala smallii Tiny polygala FFWCC/FWS E Tillandsia balbisiana Inflated wild pine FFWCC T Tillandsia fasciculata Common wild pine FFWCC E Tillandsia flexuosa Twisted airplant FFWCC E Tillandsia uticulata Giant airplant FFWCC E Amphibians Rana capito Gopher frog FFWCC SSC Reptiles Alligator mississippiensis American alligator FFWCC/FWS SSC (state) SA federall) Drymarchon corais couperi Eastern indigo snake FFWCC/FWS T Gopherus polyphemus Gopher tortoise FFWCC SSC Pituophis melanoleucus mugitis Florida pine snake FFWCC SSC Birds Aphelocoma coerulescens Florida scrub jay FFWCC/FWS T Egretta caerulea Little blue heron FFWCC SSC Egretta thula Snowy egret FFWCC SSC Egretta tricolor Tricolored heron FFWCC SSC Eudocimus albus White Ibis FFWCC SSC Falco peregrinus tundrius Arctic peregrine falcon FFWCC E (federal delisted) Falco sparverius paulus Southeastern American kestrel FFWCC T Haliaeetus lecocephalus Bald eagle FFWCC/FWS T Mycteria americana Wood stork FFWCC/FWS E Pandion haliaetus Osprey FFWCC SSC (Monroe Co. Only) Picoides borealis Red-cockaded woodpecker FFWCC/FWS E (federal) T (state) Polyborus plancus audubonii Audubon s crested caracara FFWCC/FWS T Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus Everglades snail kite FFWCC/FWS E Mammals Sciurus niger shermanii Sherman s fox squirrel FFWCC SSC Podomys floridanus Florida mouse FFWCC SSC (T) = threatened, (E) = endangered, (SA) = similarity of appearance, (C) = commercially exploited (SSC) = species of special concern, FFWCC = Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FWS = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Keith and Schnars P.A. 18

25 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 6.1 LISTED PLANTS Most of the listed plant species in St. Lucie County are found in open scrub habitats with open sandy areas, maintained by fire or fire-mimicking practices. No listed plants were observed in the project area, although it is possible that some of them could be present in the seed banks and could occur if these management practices could resume Lakela s Mint (Dicerandra immaculata) Lakela s mint is listed by the FWS and the FFWCC as an endangered species. It is a low-growing shrub found in light shade in scrub habitats along the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. It occupies sites with varying degrees of litter, from partly covered to bare sand. It is a gap species, thriving in open sunlight and becomes weakened as woody plants and saw palmetto invade open areas. It is endangered because of its extremely small range and levels of habitat destruction. Prescribed burning or equivalent management is recommended to maintain the quality of its habitat. However, little is known of its long-term requirements (FWS 1999). This species could occur in the project area although open gaps are scarce due to fire suppression. No Lakela s mint plants were observed during site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on Lakela s mint Tiny Polygala (Polygala smallii) The tiny polygala is listed by the FWS and the FFWCC as an endangered species. It is a small rosetteforming species, known only from sand pockets of open pine rocklands, sand pine scrub, high pine, and open coastal spoil. The common characteristic of these habitats is that they are extremely dry and prone to periodic fires. Within these habitats, it requires high light levels and open sand with little to no organic litter accumulation. Reproduction from a seed bank appears to be important (FWS 1999). Populations are threatened because of fire suppression and exotic plant invasion. Suitable habitat is not present in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the tiny polygala Four-petal Pawpaw (Asimina tetramera) The four-petal pawpaw is listed by the FWS and the FFWCC as an endangered species. It is found only in sand pine scrub in old, coastal dunes, ranging from open to mature canopy. It is adapted to periodic fires. It is endangered due to habitat destruction and fragmentation (FWS 1999). Sand pine scrub is not present in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the four-petal pawpaw Large-flowered False Rosemary (Conradina grandiflora) The large-flowered false rosemary is listed by the FFWCC as an endangered species. It is endemic to the southeastern part of peninsular Florida and it occurs in sandy, upland habitats, especially in sand pine scrub (Austin et al. 1993). It is associated with sand pines and scrub oaks. Suitable habitat does not appear to be habitat in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the large-flowered false rosemary. Keith and Schnars P.A. 19

26 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Airplants (Tillandsia spp.) All of Florida's native species of bromeliads are epiphytic 1, although some species may sometimes be found growing terrestrially (Tillandsia utriculata and Tillandsia fasciculata). They are on the State's list of threatened and endangered species because of habitat destruction, collecting, and recently, due to the attack by the Mexican bromeliad weevil (Metamasius callizona). Airplants were observed in a live oak hammock outside the project area. The proposed project will have no effect on any species of airplants Perforated Reindeer Moss (Cladonia perforata) The perforated reindeer moss is listed by the FWS and the FFWCC as endangered species. It is restriced to high, well-drained white sand scrub communities, usually found on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge or the Lake Wales Ridge. It typically occurs in open patches between shrubs in areas of sparse or no herbaceous cover. This type of habitat is not present in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the perforated reindeer moss Florida Butterfly Orchid (Encyclia tampensis) The Florida butterfly orchid is a fairly common orchid but it is listed by the FFWCC as a commercially exploited species. It is an epiphytic species that is found on several tree and palm species in forests and hammocks. It was not observed in the project area during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on this species Nodding Pinweed (Lechea cernua) The nodding pinweed is listed by the FFWCC as a threatened species. It is found on bare, well-drained soils of white sand communities. This type of habitat is not present in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the nodding pinweed Hand Fern (Ophioglossum palmatum) The hand fern is listed by the FFWCC as an endangered species. It is a small evergreen fern that inhabits old leaf bases of cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) found in maritime or wet hammocks. This type of habitat is not found in the project area and it was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the hand fern Erect Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta) The erect prickly pear is listed by the FFWCC as a threatened species. It is an erect or sprawling cactus that is found on calcareous shell mounds, dunes and coastal hammocks. This habitat is not found in the project area and this species was not observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on the erect prickly pear. 2 Epiphyte a plant that lives independently but depends only on the physical support of another living plant Keith and Schnars P.A. 20

27 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnomonea) and Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) The cinnamon and royal ferns are listed by the FFWCC as commercially exploited species. They are large, erect ferns that are usually found in partially shaded forested wetlands that have inundated or saturated soils throughout most of the year. Although the depression wetlands are located partially within the project area, they do not provide the suitable shaded habitat. Neither species was observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on these fern species. 6.2 LISTED ANIMALS Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) Gopher tortoises are listed by the FFWCC as a Species of Special Concern (SSC) (this species is not listed by the FWS). Several commensal species that use gopher tortoise burrows are also listed, including the gopher frog (Rana capito), Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitis), Florida mouse (Podomys floridanus), and the eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais couperi). The preferred habitat of the gopher tortoise and its commensal species is predominantly dry land-cover types, including sandhill, oak scrub and sand pine scrub. Suitable gopher tortoise habitat does not appear to be present within the proposed rightof-way. No gopher tortoises or their burrows were observed in the project area during the three site investigations over a three-year period although it is possible that they may be present in the dense undergrowth. The proposed project limits are included in the City s permit application to the FFWCC for all impacts to this species along the Crosstown Parkway corridor. This permit will ensure that the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the gopher tortoise Eastern Indigo Snake (Drymarchon corais couperi) The Eastern indigo snake is a large, black non-venomous snake found in sandhill habitats of Florida. It is listed by the FWS and FFWCC as a threatened species due to over-collecting and habitat loss and fragmentation. The species needs a mosaic of habitats to complete their annual cycle. In dry habitats, it is closely associated with the gopher tortoise and its burrows that provide shelter from winter cold and from desiccation. In the warmer climate of South Florida, it can be found in a wider range of habitats, such as hollow logs or the burrows of other animals, although they are uncommon in and near high-density human developments (FWS 1999). The probability of occurrence for this species is low due to the overgrown nature of the scrubby flatwoods. However, to assure the protection of this species during construction, The City will require that Standard Protection Measures for the Eastern Indigo Snake are followed. These protection guidelines will be implemented during construction. Thus, the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the eastern indigo snake Gopher Frog (Rana capito) Gopher frogs are listed by the State as a SSC and inhabit dry, sandy uplands, typically sandhill and scrub habitats. Nearby isolated wetlands or ponds are required for reproduction. They are nocturnal, spending daytimes hidden in shallow depressions or in the burrows of pocket gophers or gopher tortoises (Hipes et al. 2001). There is a low probability that this species is present in the project area. It is anticipated that the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the gopher frog. Keith and Schnars P.A. 21

28 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Florida Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitis) The Florida pine snake is listed by the State as a SSC and inhabit areas with open canopies and dry sandy soils of sandhills, pine scrub, scrubby flatwoods, and old fields. Its pointed conical head is well adapted to burrowing. It often co-exists in the burrows of pocket gophers or gopher tortoises. Most of its time is spent below ground with occasional surface activity in the spring and fall. It has become rare due to collecting and habitat loss (Hipes et al. 2001). There is a low probability that this species is present in the project area. The proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the Florida pine snake Florida Mouse (Podomys floridanus) The Florida mouse is listed as a SSC in Florida. It is found in dry upland communities, such as scrub, sandhill, and dry fields where they inhabit gopher tortoise burrows. When gopher tortoises are absent, they will dig their own burrows or use the burrows of other oldfield mice. There is a low probability that this species is present in the project area. The proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the Florida mouse American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) The alligator is listed by the FWS as Threatened by Similarity of Appearance (to the endangered American Crocodile) and as a SSC by the FFWCC. It is likely that the alligator would be found in the C-24 Canal and it is possible that it could occasionally inhabit the depression wetlands. However, because of the minimal impacts to these habitats, the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the American alligator Florida Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) The preferred habitat of the scrub jay is predominantly oak scrub, sand pine scrub and dry prairie. The presence of scrub oaks is usually the key indicator of scrub habitat. The Florida scrub jay is listed by the FFWCC and the FWS as a threatened species. Scrub jays have not been documented within or near the project area and none were observed during the site investigations. The proposed project will have no effect on this species Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis) The red-cockaded woodpecker is listed by the FFWCC as a threatened species and by the FWS as an endangered species. The preferred habitat for this species is pine-dominated or pine/hardwood stands with a low or sparse understory and ample old-growth pines for nesting cavities and roosting. Suitable habitat for this species is not present in the project so that the proposed project will have no effect on this species Herons Wading birds, including the little blue heron (Egretta caerulea), reddish egret (Egretta rufescens), snowy egret (Egretta thula), tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor) and white ibis (Eudocimus albus) are listed by the FFWCC as SSC. These wading birds are not listed by the FWS. The preferred habitat of wading birds is predominantly forested wetlands and marshes. The depression marshes would likely be used by these Keith and Schnars P.A. 22

29 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT species although no evidence of nesting by these species was observed. None of these species were observed during the field investigations. Because of the minimal impacts to these habitats, the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect these wading bird species Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) The wood stork is listed by the FFWCC and the FWS as an endangered species. The preferred habitat of the wood stork is similar to that of wading birds; however, the wood stork requires shallow water (about 12 inches in depth) with slow flowing conditions to feed. The project is located within the geographic range of and in the core foraging area of three active nesting colonies (Appendix A). At the time the field surveys were conducted, wood storks were not observed in the project area. In addition, the three wetlands do not have suitable foraging habitat for the wood stork. Impacts to the three wetlands are minimal so that the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the wood stork Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus lecocephalus) The bald eagle is currently listed by the FWS and FFWCC as a threatened species, although it is under consideration to become de-listed. It is a water-dependent species and is found near bodies of water. The C-24 Canal may be used for foraging but no eagle s nests (active or inactive) have been observed or recorded in the project area. The project does not fall within the primary or secondary zones of an active or inactive nest. The proposed project will have no effect on the bald eagle Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) The osprey is listed by the FFWCC as a species of special concern in Monroe County only; it is not listed outside of this county. Like bald eagles, they are water dependent for foraging and for feeding their young. Suitable habitat for osprey is not present in or near the project area. The proposed project will have no effect on osprey Audubon s Crested Caracara (Polyborus plancus audobonii) The Audubon s crested caracara is currently listed by the FWS and FFWCC as a threatened species. It is commonly found in dry or wet prairie (including improved pastures) with scattered cabbage palms or in lightly wooded areas (FWS 1999). Suitable habitat is not present in or near the project area. The proposed project will have no effect on the Audubon s crested caracara Arctic Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius) The Arctic peregrine falcon is listed by FFWCC as endangered although it has been federally de-listed. The Arctic peregrine falcon breeds on the Arctic tundra. In winter, it migrates to and inhabits coastlines and mountains from Florida to South America. Thus, it is possible that the species may feed and roost in the project area but it is unlikely to inhabit the project area. None were observed during the site investigations and none have been reported. The proposed project will have no effect on this species Southeastern American Kestrel (Falco sparverius paulus) The Southeastern American kestrel is a small falcon that migrates to Florida during the winter months. It is listed by the FFWCC as a threatened species due to habitat loss and lack of suitable nesting sites. It nests Keith and Schnars P.A. 23

30 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT in cavities in dead trees, particularly long leaf or slash pines with an open, short understory to be able to see and catch their prey. The scrubby flatwoods in the project area do not appear to offer suitable habitat for this species and it is unlikely to inhabit the project area. The proposed project will have no effect on this species Everglades Snail Kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus) The Everglades snail kite is a medium-sized raptor that feeds almost exclusively on apple snails. Thus, the species is highly dependent on the hydrology and water quality of freshwater emergent, long-hydroperiod marshes and shallow areas of freshwater lakes in which the snail can be found. Preferred habitat includes a mosaic of open water and emergent vegetation. The species has been reported in the Savannas Preserve State Park to the east of the project area (FWS 1999). Although it is possible that the species occurs in the small freshwater marshes located within the project area, these habitats do not exhibit the suitable characteristics for the occurrence of apple snails. This it is not likely the snail kite inhabits the project area. The proposed project will have no effect on the Everglades snail kite Sherman s Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger shermanii) Sherman s fox squirrel is listed by the FFWCC as a SSC. It inhabits sandhills (high pine), pine flatwoods, pastures and other open, weedy habitats with scattered pines and oaks. It depends on a variety of oak trees for seasonal food and nest material. It usually nests in oak trees and nests are constructed of oak leaves and Spanish moss. This type of habitat is present only in the small oak hammock that will not be affected by the proposed project. The proposed project will have no effect on Sherman s fox squirrel. 7.0 IMPACT ANALYSIS Fifteen plant and eighteen animal species protected by the FWS, FFWCC, or the FDACS were determined to potentially occur within the project area. No State or Federal listed plant species were observed and the specialized habitat that would support the listed plants was not present in the project area. The proposed project would have no effect on any listed plant species. No State or Federal listed wildlife species were observed during field investigations although the exotic dominated scrubby flatwoods and the depression wetlands could potentially provide habitat for several listed wildlife species. These included the gopher tortoise, eastern indigo snake, gopher frog, Florida pine snake, Florida mouse, American alligator, little blue heron, reddish egret, snowy egret, tricolored heron, white ibis and wood stork. The project area is within the core foraging area of documented nesting colonies of wood storks. The C-24 Canal and the freshwater wetlands may provide foraging or resting habitat for wading birds and wood storks. The habitat provided by the C-24 Canal would not be affected by the construction of the interchange. The wetlands would be minimally affected. The proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect these State and Federal listed animal species. Therefore, the proposed project is consistent with the Endangered Species Act. Keith and Schnars P.A. 24

31 CROSSTOWN PARKWAY/I-95 INTERCHANGE PD&E STUDY ENDANGERED SPECIES BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 8.0 COORDINATION Pre-application meetings were held with the SFWMD on June 27, 2005, and October 18, 2005, to discuss drainage, environmental, and wetlands issues. In response to the AN, only the FWS commented on listed species in the vicinity of the project (Appendix A). 9.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY Austin, D., P. Honychurch, and S. Bass. Scrub Plant Guide. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center of South Palm Beach County, Florida, Chafin, L.G. Field guide to the rare plants of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory. Tallahassee, Florida, Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. FWS. Washington, D.C., Hipes, D., D. R. Jackson, K. NeSmith, D. Printiss, and K. Brandt. Field guide to the rare animals of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory. Tallahassee, Florida, 2001 Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry. Notes on Florida s Endangered and Threatened Plants, 1998 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Closing the Gaps in Florida s Wildlife Habitat Conservation System, Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida Department of Natural Resources. Guide to the Natural Communities of Florida, Fitzpatrick, J.W., G.E. Woolfenden, and M.T. Kopeny. Ecology and development-related habitat requirements of the Florida scrub-jay (Amhelocoma coerulescens). Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, Nongame Wildlife Program Technical Report No. 8. Tallahassee, FL., U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. South Florida Multi-species Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region. Atlanta Georgia, Wunderlin, R.P. and B.F. Hansen. Guide to the vascular plants of Florida. 2 nd ed. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, Keith and Schnars P.A. 25

32 APPENDIX A COORDINATION

33 April 2 1,2005 Walter England City of Port St. Lucie 121 SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard Port St. Lucie, Florida Service Log No.: PL Date Received: April 12,2005 Project: Interstate 95 Interchange at West Virginia Drive County: St. Lucie Dear Mr. England: Thank you for your letter dated March 29,2005, in which you requested the Fish and Wildlife Service s (Service) technical assistance for the project referenced above. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project consists of constructing a new interchange to Interstate 95 at West Virginia Drive. The purpose of the project is to meet traffic demands due to tlie ongoing growth and development in the region. The project is located in St. Lucie County, Florida. THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES The Service has reviewed its Geographic Information System (GIS) database for recorded locatioiis of federally listed threatened and endangered species on or adjacent to your project. The GIS database is a coinpilation of data received from several sources. Wood stork The project occurs within the geographic range of the endangered wood stork (Mycterin nnzericnna). We have identified three active wood stork nesting colonies located near the project area. The project is located in the core foraging area (CFA) (within 18.6 miles) of these nesting colonies. These colonies are located approximately 6.2 miles and 15.6 miles southeast and 12.9 miles west of the project corridor. The Service believes tlie loss of wetlands within a CFA due to an action could result in tlie loss of foraging habitat for the wood stork. To minimize adverse effects to the wood stork, we recommend any lost foraging habitat resulting from the project be replaced within the CFA of the affected nesting colony. Moreover, wetlands provided