Chpt 9 Rare Species FINAL - Dukes County, … Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment 9 Rare Species 9-2 Numerous studies have been performed since this initial survey

MVY Martha’s Vineyard Airport

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Chapter 9 Rare Species

9.1 INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND MVY has an extensive history of rare sandplain grassland species observations and investigations dating back to an ENF submitted in 1985. A survey performed by former State Botanist Bruce Sorrie in 1989 documented the locations of rare species at MVY. During Dr. Sorrie’s botanical inventory, 13 Endangered, Threatened, Special Concern or Watch Listed species were identified by the survey team. Currently, of the thirteen species, two (bird’s foot violet and Stueve’s bush clover) are no longer State-listed, and seven are non-regulated Watch List species. This survey revealed the presence of sandplain grassland habitat, which is considered rare in Massachusetts (although not so rare at airports). This habitat type is ephemeral and in natural conditions would be succeeded by a scrub oak community and eventually a woodland/forest community. MVY operations personnel maintain the sandplain grassland community by mowing and therefore discouraging woody stemmed species from colonizing the area. Table 9-1 Sandplain Grassland Rare Plant Species Observed at MVY

State Listing 20031 Scientific Name Common Name

1989 (Sorrie)

1992 (BEC)

2001 (BEC)

2002 (BEC)

2003 (BEC)

E Scleria paucifolia var caroliniana Papillose Nut Sedge x x x

T Spiranthes vernalis Grass-leaved Ladies Tresses x

SC Linum intercursum Sandplain Flax x x x x

SC Sisyrinchium arenicola Sandplain Blue-eyed Grass x x x x

WL Asclepias tuberosa Butterfly Weed x x x x x

WL Lactuca hirsuta var sanguinea Hairy Wild Lettuce x

WL Lechea minor Lesser Pinweed x x x

WL Paspalum setaceum var setaceum Sand Paspalum x x

WL Polygala nuttallii Nuttall’s Milkwort x x

WL Quercus stellata Post Oak x x x x x

WL Spiranthes tuberosa Little Ladies Tresses x x

N/A Lespedeza stuevei Stueve’s Bush Clover x

N/A Viola pedata Bird’s Foot Violet x x x x

Note: 1. E = Endangered T = Threatened SC = Special Concern WL = Watch Listed N/A = No Listing

Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment

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Numerous studies have been performed since this initial survey to report on the progress and extent of this community and its continued maintenance. A complete history of the studies performed and the projects and/or permits involved is included in Table 9-2. Many of these surveys were performed as a part of the prior Airport Master Plan permitting process (EOEA #6503). The Airport Business Park (ABP) lots were inventoried for vegetation and a thorough review of the rare sandplain grassland and heathland communities on MVY was performed in the early 1990s and reported as a supplemental study to MEPA EIR filings under EOEA #6503. The Section 61 Findings for EOEA #6503 recommended an NHESP-approved Sandplain Grassland Management Plan, an updated version of which is still in use today. In 2001, additional surveys of these communities as well as an overview of the entire airport were combined with prior studies and eventually culminated in the 2001 Final Report: Sandplain Grassland Status and Management Activities at MVY which included an updated Sandplain Grassland Management Plan that was approved by NHESP. This report also utilized field and historical observations combined with knowledge of preferred habitat of sensitive species to develop an overview of ecological communities found on airport property and to assign Environmental Sensitivity Ratings (on a scale of 0-3) for use in future airport master planning activities. When project locations are not predetermined by airport operations and FAA regulations, the sensitivity map is utilized to screen areas for potential impact to rare species. In most cases, areas of high sensitivity have been avoided. In other cases, takings of rare species habitat for sandplain grassland species have been successfully mitigated by transplantation to a specific plot in accordance with NHESP protocols. MVY has continued to utilize the Sandplain Grassland Management Plan to maintain its grassland areas and subsequent annual MEPA findings reports have documented the continued presence of rare sandplain grassland species due to this management.

9.2 RARE SPECIES INVESTIGATIONS In response to the ENF filed for the Martha’s Vineyard Airport Improvement Project, the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) requested that the appropriate habitat within the project footprint be surveyed for the rare plants and animals listed in Table 9-3. All proposed project areas were reviewed to determine the habitats involved. The majority of the projects are to be located in developed or disturbed areas and as such are not suitable habitat for any of the rare species. Table 9-4 lists the 14 project areas and the habitats present. These communities were compared with State-listed rare species habitats to determine where intensive surveys should be performed. Project areas that did not have appropriate rare species habitat are noted in Table 9-4.


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Table 9-2 History of Rare Species Investigations at MVY

Date Event Approvals Involved

April 1985 Initial letter from NHESP reporting rare species occur within the vicinity of MVY

ENF (EOEA #5526)

Sept 1989 Bruce Sorrie’s survey mapping sandplain grassland species at MVY (initial involvement related to MEPA filing for the development of the ABP)

EIR (EOEA #6503)

Dec 1992 Supplemental Report on Rare/Endangered Species and Ecologically Significant Natural Communities, Baystate Environmental Consultants, Inc. (BEC). Transect studies of vegetative communities performed on proposed ABP lots. Sandplain flax observed along roadway.

Relative to EOEA #6503 projects

1993 Section 61 Finding for EOEA #6503. Recommends continued monitoring of sandplain grassland communities and proposes a Sandplain Grassland Management Plan. Transplant of sandplain flax from ABP.

EOEA #6503

1999-2000 Wendy Culbert performs detailed studies on ABP lots EOEA #6503

Sept 2000 MVY Section 61 Compliance, Rare Species Survey, Phase I Interim Report (BEC). Summarized prior ABP rare species findings as well as July 2000 surveys.

EOEA #6503 Section 61 compliance

Dec 2000 MVY Section 61 Compliance, Rare Species Survey, Second Interim Report (BEC). Documents surveys of habitat for entire MVY property and summarizes prior studies. Develops Environmental Sensitivity Ratings to rate habitat to rare sandplain grassland and heathland species.


Jan 2001 MVY/BEC holds sandplain grassland management workshop at MVY. Workshop is open to public and various State agencies.

Oct 2001 Final Report: Sandplain Grassland Status and Management Activities at MVY (BEC). Report includes additional rare species surveys of grassland areas conducted with aid of Carol Knapp of MVSRP and update of 1993 Sandplain Grassland Management Plan for continued maintenance.


2002 MVY Perimeter Security Fence Project. Project areas surveyed for the presence of rare species prior to construction. Sandplain blue-eyed grass observed and transplanted out of project envelope in accordance with Conservation Permit. Monitoring reports on transplants and construction filed.

Conservation Permit #002-018.DFW (NHESP)

2002 Findings Report 2002 (BEC). Filed with MEPA. Documents continued success of sandplain grassland habitats.


2003 Fenceline Monitoring Report, 2003 (BEC). Surveys fenceline corridor and transplant plot and reports rare species status/growth.

Conservation Permit #002-018.DFW (NHESP)


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Table 9-3 Rare Species in Vicinity of MVY

Scientific Name Common Name Massachusetts Status

Optimal Observation Season1

Plants

Agalinis acuta Sandplain Gerardia Endangered Late Aug. to Late Sept.

Amelanchier nantucketensis Nantucket Shadbush Special Concern May to Early June

Aristida purpurascens Purple Needlegrass Threatened Aug. to Sept.

Helianthemum dumosum Bushy Rockrose Special Concern Late May to Mid June or August

Linum intercursum Sandplain Flax Special Concern July to August

Scleria pauciflora var caroliniana

Papillose Nut-sedge Endangered September

Sisyrinchium arenicola Sandplain Blue-eyed Grass Special Concern June to July

Spiranthes vernalis Grass-leaved Ladies-tresses Threatened August

Vertebrates

Ammodramus savannarum Grasshopper Sparrow Threatened June to Mid July Breeding Season

Invertebrates

Cicindela purpurea Purple Tiger Beetle Special Concern Fall and Spring (flyers)

Hemileuca maia Barrrens Buckmoth Special Concern June (caterpillars) [preferred] October (flyers) [less optimal]

Hemaris gracilis Slender Clearwing Moth Special Concern May to June (flyers) Note: 1. Based on life cycle, with plants most often related to flowering period, but could be observed at other times. Intensive rare species investigations were performed in the appropriate habitats. If observed, the locations of these rare species were recorded in the field and subsequently compared with the footprints of individual projects to evaluate any potential impacts. Due to the life cycle of the slender clearwing moth, it was unable to be observed given the season. For this species, appropriate habitat within the project footprint was documented. Figure 9-1 is an overview of where rare species were observed within or adjacent to the proposed project areas. It should be noted that the habitats required by the species above are present on the airport due to existing and prior maintenance activities, notably the NHESP-approved Sandplain Grassland Management Plan. The sandplain grassland habitat that is preferred by the grasshopper sparrow and the rare graminoid and herbaceous species exists due to the current management. The scrub habitat preferred by the barrens buckmoth generally exists in areas that were historically cut or managed and have been allowed to revert to a shrub environment. The observations of each species and habitat type and their relation to the proposed project are discussed more thoroughly in the sections below.


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Table 9-4 Project Area Habitat/Conditions

Project Existing Habitat/ Conditions

Potential for Rare Species

Requiring Intensive Surveys

1 Taxiway A to FAA Standards

cultural grassland rare grassland vegetation yes

2 Southeast Ramp grassland, scrubland, woodland and disturbed

grassland area – rare vegetation, scrubland area – barrens buckmoth

yes

3 Airline Road disturbed from fence construction

none no

4 Fire Flow Capacity disturbed (currently ropes course)

none no

5 Connector Road and Improvements to Airport Access Road

Connector Rd (CR)– unpaved road Airport Access Road (AAR)– disturbed (paved)

CR – potential Purple Tiger Beetle AAR – none

CR – yes AAR – no

6 Terminal 2/ARFF Site Work

developed – pavement and structures

none no

7, 8 Hangars/Southwest Ramp

developed/disturbed – pavement, structures and disturbed turf community

none no

9 Fire Fighting Training Facility

scrubland/woodland and disturbed

scrubland area – barrens buckmoth

yes

10 Multimodal Center/ Rental Car Consolidation Facility

scrubland/woodland scrubland area – barrens buckmoth

yes

11 Remote Airport Parking

disturbed – open sandy soils, fill piles and shed

none no

12 Future, Related or Induced Growth

disturbed/woodland/ scrubland

scrubland area – barrens buckmoth

yes (discussed with SE Ramp)

13 Obstructions Removal at Approach to Runway 6

failing red pine forest none no

14 County Jail woodland none no


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9.2.1 Rare Vegetation Surveys Two types of vegetative communities were surveyed for the presence of rare species. The majority of the species listed by NHESP were sandplain grassland species; however, the Nantucket shadbush is a shrub that grows in openings in the forest and shrub canopy. A considerable amount of the project footprint is within areas of prior disturbance, and, therefore, has a low environmental sensitivity (Figure 9-2). The methodology involved inspecting all vegetation in these areas and was not limited to transects or plots. Comprehensive species lists of the grassland and scrub/forest communities were composed and are included in Appendix I. When rare species were observed, the GPS coordinates were recorded and the area was demarcated in the field with pink flagging and a label indicating the species observed. Notes were recorded as to the approximate size and number of individuals observed in the colony. 9.2.1.1 Rare Sandplain Grassland Species Sandplain grassland is a rare habitat within Massachusetts that occurs at MVY due to continued management of these areas. Sandplain grassland habitat is considered a pioneer habitat, and without the maintenance performed by the airport, these areas would succeed to scrub and eventually to forest habitat. The maintenance of the airport’s grasslands is in accordance with a Sandplain Grassland Management Plan developed in 2001 with NHESP approval. Continued management of the airport’s grassland areas in accordance with this plan has maintained this habitat. Three areas of the proposed project will involve work within these sandplain grassland communities. These areas include the Southeast Ramp, Taxiway B (Bravo) and Taxiway D (Delta). [Note: The two taxiways are so-called stub taxiways – short taxiways connecting a parallel taxiway to the runway. These taxiways will be reconstructed/reconfigured as part of Project #1 Taxiway A to FAA Standards.] Sensitivity of the proposed project areas were determined based on extensive prior work conducted by Charles Redington, Ph.D., and Jacob Masenior, M.S. These sensitive areas were then surveyed for the presence of rare grassland species with the aid of local ecologist Wendy Culbert. The field work was performed in late summer to ensure that all the species could be positively identified by flower or seed capsule at the time of the field survey. Southeast Ramp. The Southeast Ramp area is located between the existing Taxiway Alpha and the fence corridor (Figure 9-3). The grassland area is limited to approximately 4.4 acres between the taxiway and a scrub/forested community. The grassland community was surveyed for the presence of rare species. Generally, this area is a diverse assemblage of sandplain grassland species with between 90 and 100 percent vegetative cover. Predominant species included goldenrods, plantains, asters, sand sedge, hyssop leaved boneset, yarrow, Pennsylvania sedge, poverty grass, field sorrel, spotted knapweed, pinweeds and little bluestem.


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Figure 9-1 Locations of Rare Species

[NOTE: FIG. 9-1 IS PROVIDED SEPARATELY TO REDUCE THE SIZE OF THIS FILE, THUS ALLOWING FOR FASTER, MORE CONVENIENT VIEWING. PLEASE SEE FILE NAMED ‘9 FIG 9-1’ ON THIS CDROM TO VIEW FIG. 9-1.]


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Figure 9-3 Locations of Rare Plant Species [NOTE: FIG. 9-3 IS PROVIDED SEPARATELY TO REDUCE THE SIZE OF THIS FILE, THUS ALLOWING FOR FASTER, MORE CONVENIENT VIEWING. PLEASE SEE FILE NAMED ‘9 FIG 9-3’ ON THIS CDROM TO VIEW FIG. 9-3.]


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There is a small area adjacent to the operations road where the species assemblages are more representative of an old farm field rather than a sandplain grassland community. The vegetative cover is 100 percent with no open areas of sandy soils that are preferred by the sandplain grassland species. This area has also been the subject of prior transect studies and was determined at that time to have lower sensitivity than other maintained grassland areas. The dominant species in this area included little bluestem, yarrow, sedges, sheep fescue, panic grass, dewberry, poison ivy, winged sumac and grass leaved goldenrod. Three colonies of sandplain blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium arenicola) were observed within this Southeast Ramp area (Photo 1). [Note: All photographs are contained at the rear of this chapter.] Sandplain blue-eyed grass prefers areas of open sandy soil and was generally present in areas with 80-90 percent cover rather than 100 percent. Locations of these communities are noted on Figure 9-3 as SA1, SA2 and SA3. These areas contained scattered sandplain blue-eyed grass individuals and the areas are noted in Table 9-5. Table 9-5 Rare Species Locations and Colony Size

Colony1 Project

Area UTM Coordinates Colony Size Notes

SA1 SE Ramp 365560 E 4583812 N

2-3’-diameter circle

On northwest facing slope of swale

SA2 SE Ramp 365676 E 4583941 N

2’ x 5’ rectangular

Southwest of detention area

SA3 SE Ramp 365580 E 4583942 N


Southwest of detention area

SA4 TW-B 365460 E 4583786 N

5’ x 3’ (6 individuals)

Flag tied at the southeast end of colony

AP1 TW-B 365467 E 4583781 N

6’-diameter circle N/A

AP2 TW-B 365457 E 4583791 N


Flag in center of colony

AP3 TW-B 365454 E 4583796 N


N/A

AP4 TW-B 365457 E 4583798 N


5 individuals

AP5 TW-B 365472 E 4583784 N

8’ x 4”rectangular

Only 6 individuals dispersed in this colony

AP6 TW-B 365474 E 4583779 N


2 individuals

Note: 1. SA Sisyrinchium arenicola (Sandplain Blue-eyed grass) AP Aristida purpurascens (Purple Needlegrass)


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Sandplain blue-eyed grass was the only rare plant species observed within the Southeast Ramp. In addition to the final project footprint areas, there are areas of grading adjacent to the Southeast Ramp. In order to comply with FAA standards for safety, these areas will be subject only to construction impacts. They include the existing stormwater swale area northwest of the Southeast Ramp. The swale was also surveyed for rare grassland species. No rare plants were observed within the swale or on the surrounding slopes. In fact, sandplain grassland species prefer flatter areas and the proposed project will reduce the size of the swale, resulting in a larger flat area. The full extent of the graded area for the swale and Taxiway Bravo was not known at the time of the survey; therefore, some of the outer extent of this grading area may not have been surveyed in 2003. These areas will be surveyed during the growing season prior to any proposed work on the rehab of Taxiway Alpha. Taxiway Bravo. The grassland community on both sides of Taxiway Bravo was surveyed for the presence of rare sandplain grassland species. The vegetative cover in this area was between 70 and 90 percent. Predominant species included mouse ear, field pussy toes, gray goldenrod, plantains, purple love grass, churchmouse-three-awns, little bluestem and sedges. Sandplain blue-eyed grass and purple needlegrass (Aristida purpurascens), both State-listed rare species, were observed in this project area (Photos 1 and 2). Figure 9-3 and Table 9-5 detail the locations and colony sizes for these plants. An alternative area northeast of the proposed alignment was also reviewed for the presence of rare species. Several more colonies of purple needlegrass were observed along this alternative alignment. Since the purple needlegrass was observed in scattered colonies extending to the northeast, the proposed alignment is preferred as it includes the least area of grassland disturbance and therefore the least disturbance of rare species. Taxiway Delta. The Taxiway Delta project area was surveyed for rare sandplain grassland species. The vegetative cover varied between 90 and 100 percent. Dominant species included bearberry, clovers, sedges, sheep fescue, asters, goldenrods, yarrow, little bluestem and English plantain. No rare species were found within the proposed limit of work. 9.2.1.2 Nantucket Shadbush (Amelanchier nantucketensis) The proposed Multimodal Center/Rental Car Consolidation Facility and the Southeast Ramp areas contain both woodland and shrub ecotypes that were surveyed for the presence of the shadbush. Surveys during prior years have been performed in the flowering period of the Nantucket shadbush. Since the shadbush flowers early in the growing season, very few other plants are flowering or in leaf-out conditions. Due to the timing, finding shadbush in the flowering period is relatively simple. No Nantucket shadbush have been observed within the project areas within these prior surveys. Additional surveys were performed in the 2003 growing season to ensure that no Nantucket shadbush had been missed during these prior studies. The findings discussed below concur with BEC’s earlier studies.


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Southeast Ramp. The scrub and woodland communities within the Southeast Ramp were also surveyed for the presence of the Nantucket shadbush (Amelanchier nantucketensis). The shrub areas were dominated by scrub oak and dwarf chinquapin oak ranging between 4-6 feet in height. The majority of these areas reached 100 percent vegetative cover and the resulting shade led to limited growth within the understory. Occasional openings in the scrub canopy were dominated by black huckleberry, lowbush blueberry, bracken fern, sweetfern and lichens. The woodland areas had canopy heights of approximately 30 feet and were dominated by post oak, white oak and black oak. The shade provided by the upper canopy resulted in a sparse shrub stratum. Black huckleberry was the dominant shrub species under the trees often reaching 60 percent cover, while scrub oak and dwarf chinquapin oak dominated the areas where there were openings in the upper stratum. A complete list of the species observed in the woodland and shrub areas is included in Appendix I. No shadbush, Nantucket or otherwise, were observed within the Southeast Ramp footprint. Multimodal Center/Rental Car Consolidation Facility and Remote Airport Parking Areas. The area along the southwestern border of the Airport Business Park (ABP) is proposed to be utilized for parking facilities. The Remote Airport Parking (Project #11) has been significantly disturbed, including the soil profile. The excessive soil disturbance has resulted in limited growth of vegetation; therefore, this area was not considered a likely habitat for rare species. However, the Multimodal Center southwest of the ABP is primarily a woodland community with some areas dominated by scrub oak. The upper and shrub strata are dense and would preclude the possibility of any sandplain grassland species. Therefore, this area was only surveyed for the presence of Nantucket shadbush. The woodland and scrub areas were similar in composition to those observed in the Southeast Ramp area. Predominant tree species within the woodlands included white oak, post oak and pitch pine. Canopy openings were dominated by scrub oak and dwarf chinquapin oak. Under the upper canopy, the predominant shrub species was black huckleberry. Other lower strata species included lowbush blueberry, bracken fern and sweetfern. The vegetative community along West Road was somewhat more diverse including more herbaceous species typical of roadsides, i.e. turf grasses and fescues. No rare plant species were observed within the proposed limit of work for the parking areas.

9.2.2 Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) Survey As noted previously, a dominant habitat type at MVY is sandplain grassland. Generally, the Runway Safety Areas are vegetated by warm season grasses and herbs with some areas of open sandy soils. These grassland species are considered successional pioneers, which require open areas and a high light regime. In a natural environment, as succession continued, the grassland species would give way to shrub and tree species. However, the sandplain grassland habitat is maintained by the continued airport mowing. Due to the decrease in forest fires, farming practices and grazing animals, the sandplain grassland environment is currently considered rare in Massachusetts. In fact, in Massachusetts, this habitat is almost exclusively found at airports due to their grassland maintenance.


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Sandplain grassland habitat is the preferred niche of the grasshopper sparrow which prefers dry upland meadows with native short bunch grasses, minimal litter cover and patches of bare ground. According to Andrea Jones and Peter Vickery [undated publication], grasshopper sparrows require at least 30 acres but prefer sites greater than 100 acres. The grassland area of MVY is approximately 175 acres. Due the presence of this rare environment, the grasshopper sparrow was considered a likely inhabitant of MVY. A grassland breeding bird survey was conducted by Aimee Dorval and Erin Gillen in late June/early July 2003 to ascertain whether the grasshopper sparrow utilized MVY for nesting. Point count bird surveys were conducted at locations dispersed evenly throughout the grassland portions of the site during dusk and dawn. Each point count location had a radius of 50 m and is marked (B1 to B10) on Figure 9-4. Five minutes of observations were taken at each point, with special attention paid to the grasshopper sparrow. Appendix I contains a table summarizing all the species that were observed during these surveys. During the dusk survey, point counts were performed at seven sites. Point B7 was dominated by low-growing woody species and was not considered prime habitat for the grassland birds; therefore, it was not included in the dawn counts. During the dawn survey, B1-B6 were surveyed again and three additional sites were included (B8-B10). Grasshopper sparrows were heard during both the dusk and the dawn survey. Approximate locations of the grasshopper sparrows are included on Figure 9-4. One pair in the vicinity of the approach to RW 6 and one in the approach to RW 24, which is in the vicinity of the Southeast Ramp. Some more common grassland bird species were also observed, including the Savannah sparrow, the field sparrow and the eastern meadowlark. Since the Savannah sparrow and the grasshopper sparrow prefer similar habitats, locations of the Savannah sparrow are also noted on Figure 9-4. Due to the locations and timing of the grasshopper sparrow observations, it is possible to infer that two nesting pairs were present at MVY in the 2003 breeding season. Although grasshopper sparrows were observed on the airport, no grasshopper sparrows were noted within any of the proposed project site envelopes.

9.2.3 Rare Invertebrate Surveys According to NHESP, the slender clearwing moth, the barrens buckmoth and the purple tiger beetle are known to occur on and/or in the vicinity of MVY; therefore, the proposed project areas were evaluated with these species in mind. Where appropriate habitat existed within the project footprints, the habitat was surveyed to ascertain


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Figure 9-4 Grassland Bird Survey



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whether the rare specie was present. Biologist Sarah Haggerty led the surveys for both the barrens buckmoth and the purple tiger beetle. However, the timing of these surveys was limited and it was not possible to survey for the slender clearwing moth at the appropriate season for this species. Since the moth’s life cycle constrained the surveys, the surveys focused on the presence or absence of their preferred habitat. 9.2.3.1 Purple Tiger Beetle (Cicindela purpurea) The purple tiger beetle flies in fall and spring and prefers open sandy paths often adjacent to bearberry. The tiger beetles are carnivorous and utilize these open areas to hunt other insects. They hunt during the sunniest part of the day and were therefore the surveys occurred between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. The survey was performed on a sunny day in September 2003 with temperatures in the mid 70s. Areas of open sandy paths were prioritized, therefore the survey focused on the Operations Road southeast of Runway 24 that is in the Southeast Ramp area and the currently unpaved Connector Road (Figure 9-5). Although these areas are the type of path preferred by the tiger beetle, the bearberry that the purple tiger beetle prefers to hide in was not noted in these areas. There was no bearberry observed adjacent to open sandy areas within the project footprint. Several tiger beetles were observed during the course of the survey; however, no purple tiger beetles were noted. The punctured tiger beetle and the big sand tiger beetle species were both noted (Photos 3-5). The locations of these common tiger beetles are shown on Figure 9-5. 9.2.3.2 Barrens Buckmoth (Hemileuca maia) Field surveys for the barrens buckmoth were performed in October 2003 when the moth is known to be flying. The moth is diurnal and prefers the oak scrub habitat; therefore, project areas dominated by scrub vegetation were the focus of these surveys. Since a large population of the barrens buckmoth is known to reside in the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, which borders the airport on three sides, it was considered highly likely that the moths would be observed in appropriate habitat on the airport. The project areas that contain potential buckmoth habitat include:

1. Southeast Ramp (Project #2);

2. Fire Fighting Training Facility (Project #9); and

3. Multimodal Center/Rental Car Consolidation Facility (Project #10); The moth studies were performed over three days in mid-October 2003 between 10 AM and 2 PM on sunny days. Four locations with good vantage points were chosen to observe the males flying over the scrublands (Figure 9-6). The first two days of the survey were only partly sunny, which is not ideal for observing the barrens buckmoth. The weather on the third day was cloudless and the barrens buckmoth was observed at each of the observation points and a couple of moths were observed while traveling between observation points. Table 9-6 details the number of moths seen in each location


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and the period of observation. Photos 6 and 7 are of a buckmoth that was netted and later released. Table 9-6 Barrens Buckmoth Observations on October 24, 2003

Location1 Time Period No. Observed

M1 10:25 - 11:00 AM 1

M2 11:05 - 11:30 AM 6

M3 11:35 - 12:10 PM 6

M4 12:20 - 1:00 PM 4

11:00 AM 1 Between M1 and M2

11:35 AM 2 Note: 1. See Figure 9-6 for locations. Although it is difficult to determine if any one moth was seen more than once, the number of sightings and their locations and flight trajectories definitely indicate a population of buckmoths in the scrub within the Southeast Ramp area and the Multimodal Center area. Potential impacts to these populations and mitigation are discussed in the sections below. The final area to be observed was the proposed site for the Fire Fighting Training Facility (Project #9). The original proposed site was located east of the airport’s current training area. The vegetation in this area was observed to include both woodlands and oak scrublands. Due to the vicinity of the State Forest and the presence of preferred habitat, it was assumed that the buckmoth would be present in this area as well. Since utilizing this location for the Fire Fighting Training Facility was not mandated by airport operations or any regulations, a new location was chosen to avoid a taking of the moth habitat. The new proposed location is the site of a former Navy concrete works and has a history of disturbance. The vegetative community is mixed with some areas of herbaceous species typical of disturbed sites and other areas that are colonized by aspen saplings. The lack of scrub oak precludes the existence of the buckmoth. In addition, the vegetative communities were surveyed and no rare plants were noted. 9.2.3.3 Slender Clearwing Moth (Hemaris gracilis) Field surveys for the slender clearwing moth were limited by the moth’s lifecycle. The clearwing should be observed in May or June when the first brood is flying. Although scientists have speculated on a second flying period later in the summer, it has not been documented. The Secretary’s Certificate was received in June; therefore, an expert would have been required within the month. Professional lepidopterists are very few in number, and an expert with available time in his/her schedule could not be obtained. Since the May to June period was missed, it was not possible to survey for this species. Therefore, the habitat required by this species was studied and compared with the overall footprint of the project. According to the USGS Northern Prairie Research


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Figure 9-5 Tiger Beetle Survey



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Center, the slender clearwing caterpillar lives on and feeds on lowbush blueberry and laurel (Kalmia), while the adult food sources include nectar from flowers such as pickerelweed, blackberry, raspberry, dandelion orange hawkweed and phlox. Open areas with high percentages of lowbush blueberry were the target of the slender clearwing investigations. Lowbush blueberry is a common species in natural upland areas of Martha’s Vineyard. It grows in both open areas and as understory to forest vegetation. At MVY, lowbush blueberry often grows in oak scrub canopy openings, as well as mown areas that have high percentages of woody species. The latter habitat would be the preferred habitat on the airport for this species as it provides food for both the adult and the caterpillar. Given the shrubland and woodland communities elsewhere, the Southeast Ramp is the most likely area of potential habitat for the slender clearwing. The areas adjacent to the taxiways are mown at a frequency that minimizes the presence of woody species such as lowbush blueberry. The area between the oak scrub community and the frequently mown grassland within 100 feet of Taxiway Alpha is mown approximately once a year. This area had a higher potential of lowbush blueberry abundance. Surveys of the area demonstrated both herbaceous and woody species. The woody species included black huckleberry, lowbush blueberry, scrub oak, brambles and poison ivy. Lowbush blueberry was not the predominant species in this area, but it was present. This area may provide habitat for the clearwing moth; however, if the slender clearwing is present it is likely to be a small population due to the low percentage of lowbush blueberry, which is the primary food of the caterpillar. It should be noted also that the presence of habitat does not necessarily equate to the presence of the clearwing. Therefore, although there is marginal habitat within the Southeast Ramp footprint, the slender clearwing has a low probability of impact by this project.

9.3 RARE SPECIES IMPACTS Tables 9-7 and 9-8 summarize the rare species observed in the surveys as well as the potential impacts due to the proposed projects. The potential impacts are discussed more thoroughly by species in the sections below.


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Table 9-7 Rare Species Observed at MVY Within/Vicinity of the Proposed Project Areas

Rare Species Project Area Surveyed Habitat Potential Impacts

Construction Window Constraints

Proposed Mitigation (Subject to NHESP approval)

Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum)

SE Ramp and Twys A, B, D

Grassland Loss of 4± acres of 175± acres total grassland. Observed in vicinity, but not within project footprint. No impact likely. NO TAKING.

May to Mid August breeding period

Mow project footprint in early to mid-April and maintain grass heights at/below 4 inches during the breeding season. Results in birds nesting out of project areas and no impact and no construction window constraints.

Purple Needlegrass (Aristida purpurascens)


Grassland 6 colonies of plants found within Twy Bravo footprint. TAKING REQUIRED under 321 CMR 10.04(3).

N/A

Sandplain Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium arenicola)


Grassland 3 colonies within SE Ramp footprint. 1 colony within Twy Bravo footprint. TAKING REQUIRED under 321 CMR 10.04(3).

N/A

Plants have been flagged and located by survey. These colonies will be transplanted in the spring prior to construction. Proposed transplant area is in the Rwy 6 safety area.

Barrens Buckmoth (Hemileuca maia)

SE Ramp and Multimodal Center/Rental Car Facility

Scrubland Loss of scrub habitat: 6 acres for SE Ramp; 1 acre for parking. TAKING REQUIRED under 321 CMR 10.04(3).

N/A Seven-acre scrubland mitigation area proposed Rwy 6 end across Edgartown-West Tisbury Rd. May require brush cutting of sections of vegetation approx. every 5 years. A Scrubland Management Plan will be composed in consultation with NHESP.


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Table 9-8 Rare Species Not Found Within the MVY Project Footprints

Species Species / Habitat Type Area Surveyed/Notes

Slender Clearwing (Hemaris gracilis)

Invertebrate / open areas with lowbush blueberry

Time of survey not optimal for moths; habitat surveyed. The open areas within the project footprint are primarily grassland and are not lowbush blueberry-dominant communities. No impact is likely.

Purple Tiger Beetle (Cicindela purpurea)

Invertebrate / sandy paths

Open sandy paths within SE Ramp and along Connector Road surveyed in sunny weather in September. Other species of tiger beetle were observed. No purple tiger beetles were found within the project area; therefore, no impact to this species.

Nantucket Shadbush (Amelanchier nantucketensis)

Shrub / woodland and scrubland openings

Woodland and scrubland areas surveyed within the SE Ramp and Remote Parking Areas. No shadbush shrubs were observed; therefore, no impact to this species.

Sandplain Gerardia (Agalinis acuta)

Grass/Herb / grassland

Bushy Rockrose (Helianthemum dumosum)

Low shrub / Grassland

Sandplain Flax (Linum intercursum)


Papillose Nut-sedge (Scleria pauciflora var caroliniana)


Grass-leaved Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes vernalis)


Grassland areas of the SE Ramp and Taxiway Realignments were surveyed. These species were not found within the surveyed areas and should not be impacted by the projects. Additional areas of grading have been added to the Taxiway A realignment which have not been surveyed. These areas will be surveyed in the next growing season prior to construction. If any plants are found they will be transplanted with the same protocol detailed for sandplain blue-eyed grass and purple needlegrass.

9.3.1 Rare Vegetation 9.3.1.1 Grassland Species The construction and grading for Taxiway Alpha, the Southeast Ramp and Taxiway Bravo are within sandplain grassland habitat. The grassland surveys revealed the presence of both sandplain blue-eyed grass and purple needlegrass within the project footprint (Figure 9-3). Under the proposed project, these areas will be paved and thus effect a “taking” requiring a Conservation Permit from NHESP. In addition to the long-term impacts, there are potential construction impacts associated with the project. The existing swale will be graded out and a new swale is proposed for stormwater drainage along the edge of pavement. The Limit of Work line on Figure 9-3 demonstrates the proposed limit of grading for these projects. No rare sandplain grassland species have been found growing within the existing swale and will not be affected by this grading. In fact, since these species prefer flatter areas and the proposed swale will result in a larger flat area, more potential rare species habitat may result. The rare species may eventually spread from the unaffected areas into the newly graded areas.


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Although the swale itself was surveyed, the full extent of the area of grading for this and Taxiway Bravo may not have been surveyed in 2003; therefore, additional surveys will be conducted prior to construction during the 2004 growing season. 9.3.1.2 Nantucket Shadbush (Amelanchier nantucketensis) No Nantucket shadbush were observed within any of the project areas consistent with historical observations. Therefore, the project will not impact the Nantucket shadbush.

9.3.2 Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) Potential impacts to the grasshopper sparrow are relative to decrease in habitat size and the construction impacts to resident birds. Although no grasshopper sparrows were observed within any of the project areas, they were observed on the airport and impacts must be considered. There will be a decrease in the grassland acreage for the proposed Southeast Ramp, which involves paving 4.4 acres of grassland. However, this grassland area is already somewhat constricted between Taxiway Alpha and a shrub community. Northwest of the runway, 2.3 acres of derelict pavement will be restored to grassland. Project #13 – Obstruction Removal at Approach to Runway 6 also involves clearing an area of red pines. The pines, originally planted by the Commonwealth, are not native to the area and are not thriving. This area will be mown at least annually, resulting in another 5.2 acres of new grassland area. The net result is a 3.1 acre gain in grassland area. Therefore, there is no permanent decrease in habitat size that would impact the grasshopper sparrow. Any residual potential impact to the grasshopper sparrow would be related to construction. Since the birds do not utilize the same nests each year, but instead return to a grassland area, there is a possibility that the sparrow could nest within the project footprint. In order to ensure that construction will not impact the sparrow, the project area will be maintained with grass heights at or below 4 inches prior to and continuing throughout the breeding season. These grass heights are not preferred by the sparrow. Other grassland areas will be maintained according to the Sandplain Grassland Management Plan. Since these other areas will maintain preferable grass heights, the birds will likely nest outside of the project area. This method of avoiding grassland bird impacts is consistent with permit requirements given by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) to the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) with regards to airport construction. Since the grassland acreage will not decrease and the work will be performed in a manner that will preclude grasshopper sparrows nesting within the project area, the grasshopper sparrow will not be impacted by the proposed projects.


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9.3.3 Rare Invertebrate Species 9.3.3.1 Purple Tiger Beetle (Cicindela purpurea) No purple tiger beetles were observed in any of the project areas; therefore, the proposed projects within the Airport Improvement Program should not have any impact on this species. 9.3.3.2 Barrens Buckmoth (Hemileuca maia) Field surveys and aerial photographs have been utilized to determine that approximately 6 acres of scrub habitat exist within the Southeast Ramp and 1 acre of scrub habitat exists within the Remote Parking Area (Figure 9-6). The October 2003 field surveys documented populations of barrens buckmoth within the scrub habitat in both of these project areas. The proposed work in these areas involves clearing all vegetation and paving the area for parking of planes or cars. The scrubland habitat in the vicinity of the Remote Parking extends in a corridor to the south. It is possible that the loss of this 1 acre may not affect the local population. However, the proposed Southeast Ramp will result in the removal of 6acres of barrens buckmoth habitat. Therefore, proposed project activities would constitute a “taking” of moth habitat and will require a Conservation Permit under 321 CMR 10.04(3)(b). In accordance with these regulations, efforts were made to “avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts to state listed species to the greatest extent practicable.” Altering the location of the proposed Fire Fighting Facility was proposed to avoid impacting habitat suitable for the barrens buckmoth in this area. A mitigation plan, which is discussed further below, is proposed subject to NHESP review to compensate for the remainder of the proposed taking. 9.3.3.3 Slender Clearing Moth (Hemaris gracilis) Sections of the Southeast Ramp may provide habitat for the slender clearwing moth. Since it was not possible to survey for the species, it is not possible to rule out their presence. However, the habitat within the Southeast Ramp is marginal due to the low percentages of lowbush blueberry which is the host of the slender clearwing caterpillar. Moreover, even if the habitat were optimal, that does not definitively suggest the presence of the moth. Given the marginal habitat, it is unlikely that this species will be impacted by the proposed project.


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9.4 MITIGATION The proposed mitigation is summarized with the potential project impacts in Tables 9-7 and 9-8. More specific details are presented below and tabulated in Table 9-9.

9.4.1 Rare Grassland Species As reported previously, several colonies of sandplain blue-eyed grass and purple needlegrass are within the Southeast Ramp and Taxiway Bravo [Taxiway A to FAA Standards] project areas. In order to avoid taking these colonies, it is proposed, subject to NHESP approval, to transplant these colonies to an area that will be maintained as sandplain grassland in the future. If any additional rare species colonies are observed during the proposed supplemental 2004 surveys, they will be transplanted to this area as well. This proposed transplantation will require a Conservation Permit from NHESP in accordance with 321 CMR 10.04(3)(b). These regulations require that every effort be made to avoid, minimize and mitigate potential taking of rare species habitat. In effort to comply, areas adjacent to the proposed work were investigated to observe whether the taxiways could be shifted to a new area and avoid rare species habitat. However, these investigations revealed that rare species were evident along these altered alignments as well. Since the proposed alignment would utilize existing areas of pavement, it disturbs the smallest area of grassland. Therefore, by utilizing existing alignments, the project minimizes impacts to the grassland areas. The grading proposed for the stormwater drainage swale is required for safety purposes according to FAA guidelines. The proposed transplanting area is in the approach to Runway 6 and adjacent to a currently thriving sandplain grassland habitat. Airport management, under directives received from the FAA, is proposing to remove some of the red pines in this area to maintain safe navigable airspace. The red pines are not native to this area and have not adapted well to this environment. After the area has been cleared, the colonies of rare sandplain grassland species would be moved with a bucket loader to keep the surrounding soil and roots intact. This transplanting method was discussed with Carol Knapp, formerly of the Martha’s Vineyard Sandplain Grassland Restoration Project, who expressed approval of this method. Given the adjacent sensitive community, the species should thrive in this area. The removal of the red pines will also provide additional area for the sandplain grassland to expand. After the area is cleared, it will be maintained in accordance with the airport’s approved Sandplain Grassland Management Plan.

9.4.2 Barrens Buckmoth (Hemileuca maia) A 7-acre mitigation area is proposed to compensate for taking the barrens buckmoth habitat. The mitigation area is proposed in the approach area to Runway 6 to provide habitat for this species. The area proposed is currently an oak woodland area with some smaller areas of scrub habitat. When the trees are removed, the oak scrub should spread


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Figure 9-6 Barrens Buckmoth Survey



9 Rare Species 9-30



9 Rare Species 9-31

readily into the openings created. Since the barrens buckmoth population in the surrounding State Forest is thriving, they should expand into the habitat the mitigation area will provide. A scrubland management plan will be written and instituted to maintain this area. Lloyd Raleigh of The Trustees of Reservations (TTOR) on Martha’s Vineyard has been contacted for recommendations in this regard. Advice and guidance will also be sought from NHESP. In accordance with 321 CMR 10.04(3)(b)2, the mitigation plan will provide a “long-term net benefit to the conservation of the local population” by maintaining the habitat for the barrens buckmoth. The oak scrub habitat that the barrens buckmoth prefers is a transitional habitat. Under natural conditions, this habitat type will eventually succeed to woodland and finally to forest. The barrens buckmoth prefers the shorter oak species that will be shaded out in a forested environment. If natural succession were allowed to occur, the buckmoth habitat within the project areas would eventually be lost. In fact, canopy oaks have already begun to colonize the scrubland area within the Southeast Ramp. By maintaining a mitigation area, MVY would be benefiting the species by helping to conserve its habitat.


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Table 9-9 Rare Species Mitigation Measures

Item

Class No. Description Location Implementing Party(ies)

Implementation Date Notes

Rare Species

RS-1 Transplant Sisyrinchium arenicola and Aristida purpurascens

SE Ramp and Twy Bravo

NHESP (2), MDFW (2) MVAC

2004 Transplant rare grassland species observed within the SE Ramp and Twy Bravo construction footprint in early spring or fall.

Rare Species

RS-2 Maintain vegetation in grassland project areas below 4 inches between mid-April and mid-August to preclude nesting grasshopper sparrows.

SE Ramp NHESP (2), MDFW (2) MVAC

2004

Rare Species

RS-3 Develop mitigation area off Rwy 6 for Barrens Buckmoth. Develop scrubland mgt plan.

SE Ramp and Remote Parking Areas

NHESP (2), MDFW (2) MVAC

2004 Mitigation Area (7 acres) proposed south of Edgartown-West Tisbury Road.

Rare Species

RS-4 Complete grassland surveys.

SE Ramp/ Twys Alpha, Bravo

BEC 2004 Additional surveys prior to construction in grassland areas. Search for rare species for transplantation.

Notes: 1. Potential funding source. 2. Section 61 Finding for agency or party required. 3. Agency/party role in Section 61 Finding requires clarification. 4. Peak summer months only. Citation/Reference Jones, Andrea and Peter Vickery. Conserving Grassland Bids: Managing Large Grassland

Including Conservation Lands, Airports, and Landfills Over 75 Acres for Grassland Birds. Massachusetts Audubon Society, Lincoln, MA, (undated).

Key:

MVAC Martha’s Vineyard Airport Commission MHD MA Highway Department MVC Martha’s Vineyard Commission MDFW MA Department of Fisheries and Wildlife MHC MA Historical Commission NHESP MA Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program

Photo 1. Opened seed capsuls of sandplain blue-eyed grass.

Photo 2. Purple needlegrass in the Taxiway Bravo project area.

Photo 3. Operation Road surveyed for the presence of purple tiger beetles.

Photos 4 & 5. Big sand tiger beetle (left) and punctured tiger beetle (right)

found in the Southeast Ramp area.

Photo 6. Barrens buckmoth initially slightly stunned by netting.

Photo 7. The same barrens buckmoth prior to release.