Protection Measures Selection Tool

For temporary impacts to vernal pools with covered vernal pool plant species, the following measures will apply:

a. Minimize adverse effects to covered vernal pool plant species to the maximum extent practicable, not to exceed the self-imposed take limit of 10% per pool occupied by respective covered shrimp species. This can be exceeded for those projects where the sole purpose of the impact is to restore ecological function to the vernal pool, with agreement of the respective USFWS FO, via the ESA Section 7(a)(2) Review Form Process.

b. If adverse effects to covered vernal pool plant species are unavoidable, topsoil/inoculum will be collected, stored appropriately, and returned to the disturbed area of the vernal pool as soon as possible, once disturbance activities cease.

c. For those projects where the sole purpose of the impact is to restore ecological function to the vernal pool, with agreement of the respective USFWS Field Office, via the ESA Section 7(a)(2) Review Form process, the USFWS Field Office will work the Project Proponent to come up with additional minimization measures as needed.