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BIOLOGICAL SURVEY REPORT
SHORT-TERM SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE WAIPI‘O
VALLEY ROAD
H M KUA DISTRICT, HAWAI‘I ISLAND
by
Haley & Aldrich
500 Ala Moana Boulevard, Suite 6-250
Honolulu, HI 96813
for
County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7
Hilo, HI 96720
File No. 203303-002
April 10, 2023
HALEY & ALDRICH 1500 Ala Moana Boulevard, Suite 6-250 Honolulu, HI 96813 808.587.7747
www.haleyaldrich.com
April 10, 2023
File No. 204783-000
Mr. Stephen Pause, P.E., Director
County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works
101 Pauahi Street, Suite 7
Hilo, HI 96720-4224
Subject: Biological Survey Report
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
H m kua District, Hawai‘i Island
TMKs: 4-9-001:002 and 003, 4-8-004:006 and 003
Dear Director Pause,
Haley & Aldrich is pleased to provide our Biological Survey Report in support of the above referenced
project along Waipi‘o Valley Road.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (808) 587-7747 or
jmarsters@haleyaldrich.com.
Sincerely yours,
HALEY & ALDRICH
Janice Marsters
Senior Principal
i
Table of Contents
1. Introduction 1
1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1
1.2 AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECT 1
2. Description of Study Area 2
2.1 CLIMATE 2
2.2 TOPOGRAPHY, GEOLOGY, AND SOILS 2
2.3 DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED CRITICAL HABITATS 2
3. Methods 3
4. Results and Discussion 4
4.1 TERRESTRIAL FAUNA 4
4.1.1 Birds 4
4.1.2 Mammals 5
4.1.3 Reptiles 5
4.1.4 Endangered Insects 6
4.2 TERRESTRIAL PLANTS 6
5. Conclusions and Recommendations 8
6. References 10
List of Tables
Table 1: Birds Observed During the Survey ................................................................................................. 4
Table 2: ESA-Listed Species that May Occur in Project Area ....................................................................... 7
List of Appendices
Appendix Title
A Figures
B Representative Photographs of Project Areas
C List of Plant Species Observed
D USFWS IPaC Resource List
E DLNR Seabird Friendly Lighting Solutions
1
1. Introduction
1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Waipi‘o Valley Road (WVR) is located on the northern H m kua Coast of Hawai‘i Island (Appendix A;
Figure 1). Valley Road is affected by geologic slope hazards and related roadway stability issues
that pose an immediate threat to daily users of the only road into Waipi‘o Valley. A preliminary
geotechnical report identified hazards along the roadway (COH DPW, 2022), and a subsequent
assessment in 2022 of specific hazard areas identified an immediate hazard of overhanging and failing
soil, rock, and vegetation in the upper approximately 750 feet of WVR. The proposed project will
involve removing overhanging and loose soil and vegetation on the slope adjacent to the roadway.
Construction work for this “Short-Term Safety Improvements” project will be contained to unstable
areas immediately upslope of WVR. The work will consist of mechanical or hand excavation of loose soil
and rock, root mats, tree removal, and general vegetation clearing. Removed material will be loaded by
the contractor into trucks and hauled to a laydown/staging area at the top of WVR or directly to the
landfill. The roadway will not be affected or altered by the project. The laydown area proposed is in
Tax Map Key (TMK) 4-8-004:006. Portions of the parcel are used by non-profit groups to educate
students about Native Hawaiian plantings, traditions, and culture, and the project will not affect this
land use.
Haley & Aldrich conducted a pedestrian biological survey of the Waipi‘o roadway alignment
encompassing the Area of Potential Effect (APE) (Figure 2). A potential laydown area at the top of the
road was also surveyed.
1.2 AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECT
The APE consists of the slope area where overhanging soil, rock, and vegetation will be removed
immediately adjacent to the upper approximately 760 linear feet of Waipi‘o Valley Road. The road is
narrow and winds along the steep hillside of the south valley wall, with an approximately 152 feet
elevation drop along the 760 feet of this project, with an average slope of 20%.
The property (Tax Map Key (TMK) 4-8-004:006) near the top of the VWR proposed for use as a
contractor staging and storage area was formerly known as the Rice Property and was purchased by the
County of Hawai‘i in 2007. A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was issued for the property in
2007 (2007-05-08-HI-FEA; Rice Property at Waipio Lookout). The property is managed by County
Department of Parks and Recreation and includes a large, grassed area (approximately 150’ x 50’) at the
property’s north end that may be allowed for the contractor’s use. The south portion of the property is
used by non-profit groups to educate students about Native Hawaiian plantings, traditions, and culture,
and will not be affected by the project use of the site. Appendix B includes representative photos of the
APE and potential laydown areas.
2
2. Description of Study Area
2.1 CLIMATE
Daily temperatures in Waipi‘o Valley average 69 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) in the winter months (i.e.,
January and February) and 75°F in the summer months (i.e., August and September) (Giambelluca et al.,
2014). The project area is located on H m i Island where the
average rainfall is approximately 86 inches per year (Giambelluca et al., 2013). Rainfall occurs year-
round, but most of the precipitation occurs in March and April. Humidity averages about 74.5%.
Tradewinds with average speeds between 10-20 miles per hour (mph) from the north and northeast
dominate the summer months (80-95% during approximately May to October) and prevail about 60%
during the other times of the year.
2.2 TOPOGRAPHY, GEOLOGY, AND SOILS
Waipi‘o Valley occurs in the Kohala Volcano, the oldest of the five volcanos that created Hawai‘i Island.
Kohala Volcano is a shield volcano estimated to be one million years old, and to last have erupted
120,000 years ago. Approximately 250,000 to 300,000 years ago, a landslide destroyed the northeast
flank of the volcano. Waipi‘o Valley was formed along the fault that bounded the landslide (USGS,
1995). A Mw 6.7 earthquake occurred near Kiholo Bay on the northwest coast of Hawai i Island on
October 15, 2006 causing significant rock falls on the Waipio Valley access roads and on the northern
coastal cliffs at the mouth of Waipi o Valley (Geosyntec Consultants, 2006).
Waipi‘o Valley stretches from sea level at the valley floor up to 2,000 feet in the surrounding cliffs. The
Waipi‘o Valley Road is extremely steep, averaging 25% grade and changing 800 feet in elevation along its
0.7-mile length.
Most soils at the project site are characterized as primarily Ainakea-Rock outcrop complex, 70 to 100
percent slopes, and the east portion of the project site is characterized as Ainakea medial silty clay loam,
12 to 20 percent slopes (USDA NRCS, 2023). None of these soils are considered hydric soils (USDA NRCS,
2023). A map of the soils in the project area is shown in Appendix A; Figure 3.
2.3 DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED CRITICAL HABITATS
There are no designated or proposed Critical Habitats located within or near the project area (Appendix
A; Figure 4) (USFWS, 2022b).
3
3. Methods
Prior to the field survey, a literature review of publicly available data on biological resources in the
project area was performed. Documents reviewed include environmental documents, national
wetlands inventory data, critical habitat area, USWFS guidance, and other scientific studies and research
papers.
Biologist Taylor Chock and botanist Maya LeGrande conducted field surveys of the APE on January 4th
and 5th, 2023. The survey assessed terrestrial flora and fauna in the APE shown in Appendix A; Figure 2.
Observed plant, bird, mammal, and reptile species were recorded. Seasonal and temporal changes may
affect the presence and location of plants and wildlife, and only plants and wildlife present at the time
of the survey are documented.
A 5-minute avian point count survey was conducted along the road at the upper end near the lookout
and near the bottom of the work area on January 4, 2023. These surveys recorded birds observed
within a visible radius of the observer and by listening for vocalizations. Incidental observations of birds
and wildlife were also recorded during the survey.
4
4. Results and Discussion
4.1 TERRESTRIAL FAUNA
4.1.1 Birds
The majority of birds observed during the pedestrian survey and five-minute bird count on January 4,
2023, were non-native, introduced species (Table 1). Seven non-native birds were observed or heard
during the current survey. The most prevalent birds seen were Mejiro, or Warbling White-eyes
(Zosterops japonicus). House finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) were observed foraging in the weedy
shrub areas within the survey site and zebra doves (Geopelia striata) were observed along the access
roads. Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis), Common Mynas (Acridotheres tristis), Red-Crested Cardinals
(Paroaria coronata), and Saffron Finches (Sicalis flaveola) were all observed infrequently.
One `io or Hawaiian hawk (Buteo solitarius), an endemic species, was observed during the survey flying
from the coastline to perch . The Hawaiian Hawk or `io was
listed as Endangered by Federally and State agencies in 1967 due to low numbers of individuals along
with loss and degedation of habitat. In 2020, the USFWS downlisted or removed the Hawaiian Hawk
from the list of Endangered Species (USFWS, 2020); however, the species remains listed as Endangered
under HRS §195D-4 and is also protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
They can be found from sea level to above 8,530 feet and are now considered “Near
Threatened”. Hawaiian Hawks construct their nests approximately two months before laying eggs. Nest
trees range from 32 to 79 feet in height and the nests are typically located 11 to 60 feet above the
ground. Nests are constructed on stable platforms such as on the top of birds-nest ferns or crotches
within the branches of the trees (Griffin, 1998).
Table 1: Birds Observed During the Survey
Common Name Scientific Name Biogeographic Status Protected Status
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Naturalized non-native
resident
MBTA*
Common Myna Acridotheres tristis Naturalized non-native
resident
None
Mejiro, Warbling
White-eye Zosterops japonicus Naturalized non-native
resident
None
House Finch Haemorhous mexicanus Naturalized non-native
resident
MBTA*
Buteo solitarius Endemic
Near
threatened**,
MBTA*
Red-crested Cardinal Paroaria coronata Naturalized non-native
resident
None
Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola Naturalized non-native
resident
None
Zebra Dove Geopelia striata Naturalized non-native
resident
None
*MBTA: Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (USFWS, 2020). ** IUCN Red List Ranking—Near Threatened.
5
We consulted the USFWS Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (PIFWO) Information for Planning and
Consultation (IPaC) website (PIFWO, 2023) (Appendix D). There are no critical habitats located within or
immediately adjacent to the project location (Appendix A; Figure 4) (USFWS, 2022b). The IPaC website
listed several native wetland bird species that could occur in the project area, including the Hawaiian
goose (Branta sandvicensis / n) and Hawaiian waterbirds such as the Hawaiian Duck or koloa maoli
(Anas wyvilliana), Hawaiian coot (Fulica alai), and Hawaiian stilt (Himantopus
mexicanus knudseni). However, the steep slope areas to be remediated under this project do not
contain standing water and are highly unlikely to host these species.
Although not seen during our surveys, seabird species may also pass through the area. IPaC listed three
seabirds: the endangered Band-rumped Storm Petrel (Oceanodroma castro), the endangered Hawaiian
Petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis), and the threatened Newell’s Townsend’s Shearwater (Puffinus
auricularis newelli) (PIFWO, 2022; Appendix D) that may be in the surrounding area. Coastal light
pollution can disorient nocturnally active seabirds and potentially cause fledgling fallout.
IPaC listed the Hawaii kepa (Loxops coccineus), an endangered honeycreeper endemic to Hawai‘i, as an
endangered species may pass through the project area. However, the range of kepa habitat is usually
in native forests above 5,000 feet in elevation and, therefore, it is extremely unlikely for kepa to spend
sustained time in lowland coastal areas (PIFWO, 2022; Appendix D). None were observed during the
survey on January 4 and 5, 2022.
4.1.2 Mammals
During the surveys, minimal signs of feral pigs (Sus scrofa), such as trails and rooting were noted around
the APE. Feral cats were observed near the top of the road, and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) were
observed at the lower end of the project area. No other mammals were observed within the APE, but
small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus) and one or more rodents found on Hawai i Island,
European house mice (Mus musculus domesticus), roof rat (Rattus r. rattus), brown rat (Rattus
norvegicus), or possibly Polynesian rats (Rattus exulans hawaiiensis) likely use various resources found
within the general project area. All these introduced mammals are deleterious to native ecosystems
and the native species dependent on them.
IPaC lists the endangered Hawaiian hoary bats, or ‘ope‘ape‘a (Lasiurus cenereus semotus) as a species
that may occur in the project area. Hawaiian hoary bats are known to occur from sea level to upper
elevations across a wide range of relatively undisturbed and highly modified habitats and may roost in
both native and introduced tree species over 15 feet in height (Mitchell et. al, 2005). Many trees in and
around the project area are greater than 15 feet in height and may serve as roosting habitat for
Hawaiian Hoary Bats. No Hawaiian hoary bats were observed during the daytime survey.
4.1.3 Reptiles
The introduced Madagascar day gecko (Phelsuma laticauda) and brown anole (Anolis sagri) were
observed during the site visit. P. laticauda were introduced illegally in the 1970s and have spread
throughout the islands. A. sagri is highly invasive and has also established quickly in the islands. Both
species are widely distributed throughout Hawai‘i Island.
Vocalizations of the introduced coqui frog (Eleutherodactylus coqui) were heard during the site visit. E.
coqui was accidentally introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in the 1980s and quickly established on
Hawai‘i Island in high densities, becoming an extreme nuisance.
6
The IPac report identified Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) as a threatened species that may nest on
any sandy beach area in the Pacific Islands. Nesting occurs on Hawaiian beaches from May through
September, peaking in June and July, with hatchlings emerging through November and December.
Construction on, or in the vicinity of beaches can result in sand and sediment compaction, sea turtle
nest destruction, beach erosion, contaminant, and nutrient runoff, and increased direct light pollution
that may disorient hatchlings or deter nesting females. The project will not affect or disturb any sandy
beach areas where green sea turtles may nest or haul out.
4.1.4 Endangered Insects
The IPaC report identified the endangered Blackburn’s sphinx moth (Manduca blackburni) as an
endangered species that may occur in the project area, although the area is not listed as critical habitat
for this species. According to the Federal Register 50 CFR Part 17, the moth has been found in Hilo,
Pahala, Kalaoa, Kona, and H m kua on Hawai‘i Island. The Blackburn’s sphinx moth larvae utilize plants
in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which includes the common non-native tree tobacco (Nicotiana
glauca). No tree tobacco or other plants suitable for moth habitat were observed during the survey.
4.2 TERRESTRIAL PLANTS
, including the road section and laydown area located at the top
of the road, documented no sensitive or endangered plants. Seven native species of plants were
documented, including two endemic and five indigenous species. Four Polynesian introductions were
also observed along with the remaining 82 non-native naturalized species, bringing the total to 93 plant
species. A full list of naturalized species can be found in Appendix C.
The APE was surveyed to the extent possible while walking the roadway. The majority of the species
observed were non-native with dominant tree species including swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta),
guava (Psidium cattleyanum and P. guajava), Christmas berry (Schinus terebinthifolius), paperbark
(Melaleuca quinquenervia), African tulip (Spathodea campanulata), Melochia umbellata, and umbrella
tree (heptapleurum actinophyllum). S
(Metrosideros polymorpha), neneleau (Rhus sandwicensis), and hala (Pandanus tectorius) were observed
on both sides of the roadway. The remaining natives are small shrubs or ferns seen infrequently
includinguluhe (Dicranopteris linearis Odontosoria chinensis), moa (Psilotum nudum
(Oxalis corniculata). Several Polynesian introductions were observed as well, which included
(Cordyline fruticolsa), niu (Cocos nucifera Musa sp.), and kukui (Aleurites moluccana).
The laydown area is Mangifera indica),
papaya (Carica papaya), m make (Pipturus albidus), Artocarpus altilis), and hibiscus (Hibiscus sp.).
Naturalized tree species include swamp mahogany, and guava.
The IPaC report identified the following list of Endangered Species Act-protected species that may occur
in the project area (IPaC, 2022; Appendix D and summarized in Table 1 below).
None of these listed species in Table 2 were identified during the survey conducted on January 4 and 5,
2023. There are no critical habitats within the project area (Appendix A, Figure 4).
7
Table 2: ESA-Listed Species that May Occur in Project Area
Common Name Scientific Name ESA Status Present at Site Survey?
Hawaiian Hoary Bat Lasiurus cinereus semotus Endangered No
Hawaiian Stilt Himantopus mexicanus knudseni Endangered No
Hawaiian Coot Fulica americana alai Endangered No
Hawaiian Duck Anas wyvilliana Endangered No
Loxops coccineus Endangered No
Hawaiian Goose Branta (=Nesochen) sandvicensis Threatened No
Band-rumped Storm Petrel Oceanodroma castro Endangered No
Hawaiian Petrel Pterodroma sandwichensis Endangered No
Newell’s Townsend’s Shearwater Puffinus auricularis newelli Endangered No
Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas Threatened No
Blackburn’s Sphinx Moth Manduca blackburni Endangered No
PLANT SPECIES
‘Aiea Nothocestrum latifolium Endangered No
A‘e Zanthoxylum dipetalum var. tomentosum Endangered No
Carter’s Panicgrass Panicum fauriei var. carteri Endangered No
Hala Pepe Pleomele hawaiiensis Endangered No
H lei Ochrosia haleakalae Endangered No
H lei Ochrosia kilaueaensis Endangered No
Ihi Portulaca villosa Endangered No
Kauila Colubrina oppoitifolia Endangered No
Kuahiwi Laukahi Plantago princeps Endangered No
Lo ulu Pritchardia maideniana Endangered No
n/a Neraudia ovata Endangered No
Po‘e Portulaca sclerocarpa Endangered No
n/a Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis Endangered No
Notes:
Source: Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (PIFWO) 2023. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC). Accessed 31
January 2023. Accessible online at: https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/.
8
5. Conclusions and Recommendations
Impacts to terrestrial flora are anticipated during mechanical excavation of unstable soil, rock, and
vegetation on the slopes above the roadway. Depending on the extent of mitigation needed, mature
trees may need to be cut or removed. No work will be conducted in streams or wetland areas.
Use of the laydown area may involve storing removed material for haul out or for construction vehicle
parking and storage, which would disturb vegetation within the footprint of the used area. The area is
currently cleared, but native and decorative plantings surround the cleared area. Proper best
management practices (BMPs), avoidance and minimization measures (AMMs), and exclusion zones will
be detailed in the design erosion and mitigation plans and implemented to minimize effects to
surrounding flora.
No sensitive, protected, rare, or listed threatened, or endangered species were observed within the
project area. However, the Hawaiian hoary bat, as well as the Hawaiian Hawk, which was ESA-delisted in
January 2020 but still remains under federal protection per the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and
under Hawai’i State protection per HAR §13-124, and various seabirds, may pass through the project
area due to the proximity to mature trees and the ocean. Direct impacts to their habitat from the
project may occur as mature trees may be cut or disturbed during construction activities to fulfill rockfall
mitigation goals.
Recommended Mitigation
All field equipment including tools, machinery, vehicles as well as and footwear and clothing should be
cleaned daily prior to and after field activities to control the spread or introduction of noxious plant
species.
In the unlikely situation of a threatened or sensitive animal species observed in or around the project
area, all construction work will halt until the individual leaves of its own accord. Construction routes
and equipment areas should be staged along existing roads, walkways, and gravel areas to minimize
impacts to planted vegetation. Suggested BMPs and AMMs to minimize impacts to federal and state
listed species are listed below:
a) To avoid and minimize impacts to the Hawaiian hoary bat, woody plants greater than 15 feet tall
shall not be disturbed, removed, or trimmed during bat birthing and pupping season (June 1
through September 15), and barbed wire shall not be used for fencing.
b) To minimize impacts to Hawaiian waterbirds, construction shall avoid creating standing/ponding
water areas that may attract waterbirds.
c) To minimize impacts to seabirds and marine species, the construction shall avoid outdoor
lighting and conduct work during daylight hours. Should emergency nighttime work need to be
conducted, all lights will be appropriately shielded, and nighttime construction will be avoided
during the seabird fledging period (September 15 through December 15) as well as during green
sea turtle nesting and hatching season (May through December), per the lighting information
included in Appendix E.
d) To avoid impacts to the Hawaiian Hawk, the following measures are recommended:
A nest survey of the APE is recommended during the Hawk breeding season (March through
September) 10 days (maximum of 14 days) prior to the start of construction activities. The
survey should be conducted by a qualified biologist using appropriate survey methods and
9
should focus on the large trees that could provide nesting habitat (Gorresen et. al, 2008,
USFWS, 2008).
If active nest(s) are located, no construction should occur within 1,600 feet of the nest until
the chicks fledge or the nest is abandoned.
If Hawaiian Hawk individuals are detected in the area during construction, all activities
within 100 feet of the bird should cease. Work may continue when the bird has left the area
on its own.
By incorporating the above mitigation measures, the project is unlikely to result in direct or indirect
adverse effects on sensitive species.
10
6. References
COH DPW, 2022. Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Evaluation for Waipi‘o Valley Road. Job No.
3140023002. Accessible online at
https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/304307/63781224279231445
6. January.
Geosyntec Consultants, 2006. Geological Engineering Reconnaissance of Damage Resulting from the
October 15, 2006 Earthquakes, Island of Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i, USA. Available online at:
https://www.eeri.org/lfe/pdf/usa_hawaii_Oct_15_2006_EQ_Geosyntec_Report.pdf.
Giambelluca, T.W., Q. Chen, A.G. Frazier, J.P. Price, Y.-L. Chen, P.-S. Chu, J.K. Eischeid, and D.M. Delparte,
2013: Online Rainfall Atlas of Hawai‘i. Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 94, 313-316, doi:
10.1175/BAMS-D-11-00228.1.
Giambelluca, T.W., X. Shuai, M.L. Barnes, R.J. Alliss, R.J. Longman, T. Miura, Q. Chen, A.G. Frazier, R.G.
Mudd, L. Cuo, and A.D. Businger. 2014. Evapotranspiration of Hawai‘i. Final report submitted to
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers—Honolulu District, and the Commission on Water Resource
Management, State of Hawai‘i.
Gorresen M.P., R.J. Camp, J.L. Klavitter, and T.K. Pratt, 2008. Abundance, Distribution, and Population
Trend of the Hawaiian Hawk: 1998-2007 (HSCU-009). Hawaii Cooperative Studies Unit, Hilo. Griffin, C.R., P.W.C. Paton, and T.S. Baskett. 1998. Breeding Ecology and Behavior of the Hawaiian Hawk.
Condor 100:654-662.
Imada, C. T. 2019. Hawaiian Naturalized Vascular Plants Checklist (February 2019 update). Bishop
Museum Tech. Rept. 69. 209 pp.
Macdonald, Abbot, and Peterson, 1983. Volcanoes in the Sea. Second edition. University of Hawai‘i
Press, Honolulu.
Mitchell, C., C. Ogura, D. Meadows, A. Kane, L. Strommer, S. Fretz, D. Leonard, and A. McClung. 2005.
Hawaii’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Department of Land and Natural
Resources. Honolulu, Hawaii. 722p.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2015. 50 CFR 226. Document 80 FR 50925.
Endangered and Threatened Species: Final Rulemaking to Revise Critical Habitat for Hawaiian
Monk Seals. 21 August.
Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (PIFWO) 2023. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC).
Accessed 31 January 2023. Accessible online at: https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/.
Palmer, Daniel D. 2003. Hawaii’s Fern and Fern Allies. University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu.
Staples G. W. and D. R. Herbst. 2005. A Tropical Garden Flora: Plants cultivated in the Hawaiian Islands
and other tropical places. Bishop Museum Press.
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USDA NRCS, 2023. Web Soil Survey. Available at: Web Soil Survey (usda.gov). Accessed 1 February 2023.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1998. Recovery Plan for the Hawaiian Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinerus
semotus). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 1, Portland, OR.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2008. Draft Post Delisting Monitoring Plan for the Hawaiian Hawk, or Io
(Buteo solitaries). Endangered Species Division, Pacific Island Fish and Wildlife Office, Honolulu.
USFWS, 2022a. Wetlands Mapper. Accessed 12 December. Accessible online at:
https://www.fws.gov/program/national-wetlands-inventory/wetlands-mapper.
USFWS, 2022b. Critical Habitat for Threatened and Endangered Species. Accessed 12 December.
Accessible online at:
https://fws.maps.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=9d8de5e265ad4fe09893cf
75b8dbfb77.
USGS, 1995. Volcano Watch - Volcanoes of the Big Island. 15 September. Available at:
https://www.usgs.gov/news/volcano-watch-volcanoes-big-island.
Wagner, W.L. and D.R. Herbst. 1999. Supplement to the Manual of the flowering plants of Hawaii, pp.
1855-1918. In: Wagner, W.L., D.R. Herbst, and S.H. Sohmer. 1990. Manual of the flowering
plants of Hawaii. Revised Edition. 2 vols. University of Hawaii Press and Bishop Museum Press,
Honolulu.
APPENDIX A
Figures
SITE
155°35'0"W155°36'0"W155°37'0"W155°38'0"W
20°8'0"N
20°7'0"N
20°6'0"N
20°5'0"N
20°4'0"N
GIS: \\haleyaldrich.com\share\pdx_data\Notebooks\0203303-001_Waipio_Valley_Geotechnical_Design\GIS\Maps\2022_07\203303_001_0001_PROJECT_LOCUS.mxd - khaskins - 7/1/2022 2:31:57 PMMAP SOURCE: ESRISITE COORDINATES: 20°06'54"N, 155°35'29"W
WAIPIO VALLEY ROAD EVALUATIONHONOKAA, HAWAII
PROJECT LOCUS
FIGURE 1APPROXIMATE SCALE: 1 IN = 4000 FT 2022
HI
NOTES:
1. BACKGROUND PLAN FROM GOOGLE EARTH,IMAGERY DATED 19 JUNE 2019.
SHORT TERM SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS FORTHE WAIPIʻO VALLEY ROAD WAIPIʻO, HAWAIʻI, HAWAIʻI0203303-002-02
SCALE: AS SHOWNFEBRUARY 2023 FIGURE 2
AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECT
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FIGURE 4:
Project
Site
APPENDIX B
Representative Photographs of Project Area
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
1
No. Photograph Description
1
Photo of
ornamental
plants such as
(Cordyline
fruticosa) and
Sphagneticola
trilobata on the
upslope of Waipi‘o Valley
Road. The green
guard shack can
be seen in the
background.
2
View of upper switchback of
Waipi‘o Valley
Road. Native
(Metrosideros
polymorpha) can
be seen in the
center of the
photo, introduced
swamp mahogany
(Eucalyptus
robusta) and
Christmas berry
(Schinus terebinthifolius)
trees are in the
background.
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
2
No. Photograph Description
3
Section of Waipi‘o
Valley Road,
showing the steep
rock face upland
of the road on the
left side of the
photo and drop
off protected by the guard rail on
the right side of
the photo.
4
Photo taken
looking down
Waipi‘o Valley
Road (left) into
Waipi‘o Valley
(right upper side
of photo),
showing typical
vegetation along the downslope of
the APE.
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
3
No. Photograph Description
5
Photo showing
the downslope
section of the
APE, and native
neneleau, or
Hawaiian sumac
(Rhus
sandwicensis) trees. Hawaiian
sumac and and
hala (Pandanus
tectorius) were
the most
abundant native
trees in the area.
6
Close up of the indigenous ‘ihi,
(Oxalis
corniculata)
growing on the
upslope side of Waipi‘o Valley
Road.
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
4
No. Photograph Description
7
Photo of the open
grassy lawn of the
potential laydown
area facing east.
The area is clear,
with native
plantings on the
left side of the photo and the
road off to the
left side of the
photo.
8
Cultivated Pipturus
albidus) plant
near to the
potential laydown
area.
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
5
No. Photograph Description
9
Asphalt ramp to
the entrance on
the east side of
the potential
laydown area (to
the right of the
photo), facing
south.
10
Asphalt ramp to the gated
entrance behind
the park ranger
station on the
west side of the
potential laydown
area (to the left of
the photo), facing
south.
Appendix B: Representative Photographs of Project Area
6
No. Photograph Description
11
Photo of parking
area and laydown
area. Photo taken
from across of
Honoka‘a Waipi‘o
Road, facing
south.
APPENDIX C
List of Plant Species Observed
Appendix C: List of Plant Species Observed
Biological Survey Report 1
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
PLANT SPECIES LIST
The following checklist is an inventory of all the plant species observed within the project area of the
proposed Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Valley Road. The plant names are arranged
alphabetically by family and then by species into each of four groups: Gymnosperms, Ferns and Fern Allies
(Pteridophytes), Monocots, and Dicots. The taxonomy and nomenclature of the Ferns and Fern Allies
follow Palmer (2002), while the gymnosperms and flowering plants, Monocots and Dicots, are in
accordance with Wagner et al. (1990) and Wagner and Herbst (1999) and Staples and Herbst (2005).
Recent name changes follow the 2019 Hawaiian Naturalized Vascular Plants Checklist series (Imada 2019).
For each species, the following name is provided:
1. Scientific name with author citation.
2. Common English and/or Hawaiian name(s), when known.
3. Biogeographic status. The following symbols are used:
E= endemic= native only to the Hawaiian Islands.
I= indigenous= native to the Hawaiian Islands and elsewhere.
P=Polynesian introduced=species that were introduced by the Polynesian migration to
Hawaii, either intentionally or unintentionally, and are now naturalized.
X=introduced or alien = all those plants brought to the Hawaiian Islands by humans,
intentionally or accidentally, after Western contact, that is Cook’s arrival in the islands in
1778.
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
GYMNOSPERMS
ARAUCARIACEAE
Araucaria columnaris (G.Forst.) Hook.f. Cook pine X
PTERIDOPHYTES
BLECHNACEAE
Blechnum appendiculatum Willd. X
CYATHEACEAE
Sphaeropteris cooperi(Hook. ex F.Muell.) R.M.Tryon Australian tree fern X
GLEICHENIACEAE
Dicranopteris linearis (Burm.f.) Underw. uluhe, unuhe I
NEPHROLEPIDACEAE
Nephrolepis brownii (Desv.) Hovenkamp&Miyam. Asian swordfern X
LINDSAEACEAE
Odontosoria chinensis (L.) J.Sm. la a I
POLYPODIACEAE
Microsorum grossum (Langsd. & Fisch.) S.B.Andrews ua e X
Phlebodium aureum (L.) J.Sm. X
Appendix C: List of Plant Species Observed
Biological Survey Report 2
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
PSILOTACEAE
Psilotum nudum (L.) P. Beauv. moa, upright whiskfern I
PTERIDACEAE
Adiantum hispidulum Sw. rough maidenhair X
Adiantum raddianum C.Presl delta maidenhair X
THELYPTERIDACEAE
Christella dentata (Forssk.) Brownsey & Jermy p X
Christella parasitica (L.) Lev. X
MONOCOTS
AGAVACEAE
Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A.Chev. k P
ARACEAE
Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Engl. pothos vine X
ARECACEAE
Cocos nucifera L. niu, coconut P
COMMELINACEAE
Commelina diffusa Burm.f, honohono X
MUSACEAE
Musa sp. L. banana P
ORCHIDACEAE
Arundina graminifolia (D.Don) Hochr. bamboo orchid X
Spathoglottis plicata Blume Philippine ground orchid X
PANDANACEAE
Pandanus tectorius Parkinson ex Z hala I
POACEAE
Andropogon virginicus L. broomsedge X
Chloris barbata (L.) Sw. swollen fingergrass X
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers manienie X
Digitaria insularis (L.) Mez ex Ekman sourgrass X
Megathyrsus maximus (Jacq.) B.K.Simon & S.W.L.
Jacobs Guinea grass X
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. molasses grass X
Melinis repens (Willd.) Zizka Natal redtop X
Oplismenus hirtellus (L.) P.Beauv. basketgrass, honohono X
Appendix C: List of Plant Species Observed
Biological Survey Report 3
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
Paspalum conjugatum P.J.Bergius Hilo grass X
Sacciolepis indica (L.) Chase Glenwood grass X
Setaria parviflora (Poir.) Kerguelen yellow foxtail X
ZINGIBERACEAE
Hedychium garderianum Sheppard ex Ker Gawl.
ginger
X
DICOTS
ACANTHACEAE
Justicia betonica L. white shrimp plant X
ANACARDIACEAE
Mangifera indica L. mango X
Rhus sandwicensis A.Gray neneleau, Hawaiian sumac E
Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi Christmas berry X
APIACEAE
Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Asiatic pennywort X
ARALIACEAE
Heptapleurum actinophyllum (Endl.) Lowry &
G.M.Plunkett
octopus tree, umbrella tree X
ASTERACEAE
Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) R.M.King & H.Rob. X
Ageratina riparia (regel) R.M.King & H.Rob. X
Bidens pilosa L. Spanish needle X
Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S.Moore crassocephalum X
Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob. little ironweed X
Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. false daisy X
Emilia fosbergii Nicolson red pualele X
Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC. var. sonchifolia X
Montanoa hibiscifolia Benth. tree daisy, Christmas daisy X
Pluchea carolinensis (Jacq.) G. Don sourbush X
Sigesbeckia orientalis L. small yellow crown-beard X
Sonchus oleraceus L. sow thistle X
Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski wedelia X
Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn. nodeweed X
Youngia japonica (L.) DC. Oriental hawksbeard X
Appendix C: List of Plant Species Observed
Biological Survey Report 4
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
BEGONIACEAE
Begonia hirtella Link bearded begonia X
BIGNONIACEAE
Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv. African tulip X
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. Ex Roem. & Schult. var.
pacifica M.Mizush.
pipili, pilipili X
CASUARINACEAE
Casuarina equisetifolia L. common ironwood X
COMBRETACEAE
Terminalia catappa L. tropical almond X
CUCURBITACEAE
Momordica charantia L. balsam pear X
EUPHORBIACEAE
Aleurites moluccana (L.) Willd. kukui P
Chamaesyce hypercifolia (L.) Millsp. graceful spurge X
FABACEAE
Albizia chinensis (Osbeck.) Merr. X
Canavalia cathartica Thouars maunaloa X
Chamaecrista nictitans (L.) Moench partridge pea X
Crotalaria trichotoma Bojer curara pea X
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. Florida beggarweed X
Grona triflora (L.) H.Ohashi & K.Ohashi tick clover X
Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) Barenby & J.W.Grimes Moluccan albizia X
Macroptilium atropurpureum (DC.) Urb. twining cow pea X
Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr. monkeypod X
LAMIACEAE
Salvia coccinea Etl. scarlet sage, Texas sage X
LAURACEAE
Persea americana Mill. avocado X
MALVACEAE
Abutilon grandifolium (Willd.) Sweet hairy abutilon X
Melochia umbellata (Houtt.) Stapf melochia X
Sida rhombifolia L. X
Appendix C: List of Plant Species Observed
Biological Survey Report 5
Short-Term Safety Improvements for the Waipi‘o Valley Road
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS
MELASTOMATACEAAE
Miconia crenata (Vahl) Michelang. clidemia, Koster’s curse X
MORACEAE
Ficus microcarpa L.f. Chinese banyan X
MYRTACEAE
Eucalyptus robusta Sm. swamp mahogany X
Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T.Blake paperbark X
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaudich. var. polymorpha E
Psidium cattleyanum Sabine strawberry guava X
Psidium guajava L. common guava X
Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels Java plum X
OXALIDACEAE
Oxalis corniculata L. I
Oxalis debilis Kunth. corymbosa (DC.) Lourteig X
PASSIFLORACEAE
Passiflora edulis Sims passion fruit X
POLYGALACEAE
Polygala paniculata L. milkwort X
PROTEACEAE
Grevillea robusta A.Cunn. ex R.Br. silk oak, silver oak X
ROSACEAE
Rubus rosifloius Sm. thimbleberry X
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Buddleja asiatica Lour. X
URTICACEAE
Pilea microphylla (L.) Liebm. artillery plant X
VERBENACEAE
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl Jamaican vervain X
APPENDIX D
USFWS IPaC Resource List
APPENDIX E
DLNR Seabird Friendly Lighting Solutions Flyer
SEABIRD FRIENDLY LIGHTING SOLUTIONS
Help eliminate seabird light attraction. Select the best xture
for your application using this guide. Avoid uplighting, always shield
oodlights, and aim downlights carefully to avoid light trespass. For more
information go to www.kauai-seabirdhcp.info.
Fully Shielded Fixtures
Fully ShieldedWallpack & WallMount Fixtures
Full Cutoff Fixtures
Full Cutoff Streetlight
Fully ShieldedSecurity Light
Fully Shielded‘Period’ StyleFixtures
Shielded / Properly-aimedPAR Floodlights Flush Mounted CanopyFixtures
bulb shielded in opaque top
flat lens
Acceptable
Unshielded Floodlightsor Poorly-shielded Floodlights
Unshielded Wallpacks& Unshielded orPoorly-shielded WallMount Fixtures
Drop-Lens & Sag-Lens Fixturesw/ exposed bulb / refractor lens
Unshielded Streetlight
UnshieldedSecurity Light
Unshielded PARFloodlights
Unshielded‘Period’ StyleFixtures
Drop-Lens CanopyFixtures
Unacceptable / DiscouragedFixtures that produce glare and light trespass Fixtures that shield the light source to minimize glare and light trespass
and to facilitate better vision at night
BC 9/03
exposedpolishedreflector
shield too smallineffective
shield
ineffective
Fully ShieldedWalkwayBollards
Unshielded BollardBetter Lights for etter Nights
presented by the
Dark Sky Society
www.darkskysociety.org
Illustrations by Bob Crelin, used with permission. You may freely copy and distribute this document.
Help eliminate light pollution. Select the best fi xture for your application using
Unshielded floodlight that is angled incorrectly Shielded floodlight that is angled correctly
Illustrations fromwww.darksky.org and www.darkskysociety.org