A. Much of the Marina Coastal Zone either is environmentally sensitive because of the presence of rare and endangered species or has the potential for supporting a rare and endangered species. In Marina, environmentally sensitive habitats include, but are not limited to, areas of undisturbed native dune vegetation, vernal ponds and vernal pond wetlands. The potential habitat map in the LCLUP reveals areas where such plant and animal habitats are to be found. The precise limits of such habitats shall be confirmed by professional on-site evaluation at the time development is proposed and before a coastal development permit is issued.

B. In addition to indicating the location of primary habitat areas for rare and endangered plant and animal species (which are to be protected), the evaluation shall address protective measures, such as setbacks, restoration of habitat areas where natural dune landform remains, and limitations to uses in secondary and/or support areas which are necessary to the health of the identified primary habitat area. Because of the variety of plants and animals involved, the secondary or support area will have to be individually identified and specifically protected on a site-by-site or case-by-case basis. For this reason, it is important that the city establish a list of biologists qualified to prepare habitat evaluation reports within the city’s Coastal Zone. Developers may then choose specialists from these lists.

C. In the case of wetlands, the biologists will have to determine the extent and landward boundary of the wetland. The biologist will then establish a one-hundred-foot setback line from the boundary of the wetland. This entire area, pond, wetland and setback, will be subject to coastal development permit requirements as well as being in the coastal permit appeal zone.

D. In the case of dune habitat areas, the environmental analysis report prepared for this plan identified a number of plant and animal species which are locally or generally rare, endangered, threatened, or are necessary for the survival of an endangered species. The habitats of these species, collectively referred to throughout this plan as “rare and endangered,” warrant protection as environmentally sensitive.

E. While future scientific studies may result in addition or deletion of species, the list presently includes: