PD BACKGROUND REPORT (PL-SPP-2022-000012)

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surface quarrying, stockpiling, roads, and other activities. Most of this disturbed area is dominated by a dozen or so non-native trees such as Albizia, strawberry guava, gunpower tree and false kamani, among a few others. The dense canopy of non-native trees results in a sparse understory of mostly invasive tree seedlings. Overall, no listed, candidate or proposed endangered plant species were found. During three (3)visits in April 2019, only non-native bird species were observed within the permit area, such as Japanese white-eyes, common mynahs, northern cardinals and various finches and doves. The only native bird observed was the Hawaiian hawk flying above the permit area. These surveys, as detailed in the EA, concluded that it is "...unlikely that many other species of native forest birds would be expected to use the project site due to its low elevation, alien vegetation, and lack of adequate forest resources. However, it is not inconceivable that Hawaii `amakihi are sometimes present, as some populations of this native honeycreeper appear to have adapted to the mosquito-borne diseases of the Hawaiian lowlands. The common migratory shorebird Pacific golden plover, which is often seen inland in grassy areas, may occasionally be present. "hi summary, the studies found no rare, threatened, or endangered species of plants or animals or their habitats within the permit area. In order to avoid impacts to the endangered Hawaiian Hawk and Hawaiian Hoary Bat, the applicant proposes to refrain from disturbing or removing trees taller than 15 feet between June 1 and September 15, when Hawaiian hoary bats may be sensitive to disturbance. Furthermore, if land clearing occurs between the months of March and September, inclusive, a pre-construction hawk nest search by a qualified ornithologist using standard methods will be conducted. If Hawaiian hawk nests are present, no land clearing will be allowed until October, when hawk nestlings will have fledged. The applicant would agree to shield any exterior lighting from shining upward to minimize the potential for disorientation of seabirds, in conformance with the County's outdoor lighting standards. Finally, as the permit area contains a few isolated `Ohi`a trees, the applicant will implement mitigation protocols to minimize the spread of Rapid `Ohi`a Death(ROD). According to the State DLNR-Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), they concur with the proposed mitigation measures for the Hawaiian Hoary Bat, Hawaiian Hawk and Sea Birds and the protocols to minimize the 5