Wetlands/Waters Credits
Rancho Estrellita Mitigation Bank encompasses numerous ephemeral streams and one significant intermittent stream, the Estrella River. Aquatic features are a defining component of the Bank Lands where they form the foundation for both species and aquatic resource mitigation. The Bank has credits for five aquatic habitat types: Intermittent Stream, Riparian Habitat, Wetland, Vernal Pool, and Ephemeral Stream. Habitat restoration will be implemented in 2027 to enhance functions and values of aquatic resources throughout the property.
Intermittent Stream
Nearly 30 acres of Intermittent Stream habitat credits are provided by the Bank. Intermittent Stream habitat credits are designated in the primary flow channels of the Estrella River. This habitat consists of a dynamic mosaic of open sandy substrate with pockets of Fremont cottonwood and red willow canopy, scattered individual riparian trees, native shrubs, and a mix of perennial and annual forbs, sedges, and hydrophytic grasses. Surface flows are intermittent during the rainy season, with areas of prolonged standing water during average and above average rainfall years.
Riparian Habitat
A diverse riparian habitat lines the Estrella River for approximately 2.5 miles as it winds through the Bank Lands. Approximately 96 acre credits are available within the Bank, consisting of stands of mature red willow and Fremont cottonwood trees, dense stands of sandbar willow, and areas of native riparian shrubs and wildflowers. Riparian habitat provides cover and foraging opportunities for wildlife, some living full time and some just passing through the region within the riverbed. Bobcat, mountain lion, coyotes, foxes, raccoon, skunk, beaver and deer are commonly seen.
Wetland
Approximately 1 acre credit of emergent wetland habitat occurs within the Estrella River low flow channel. The wetland is located in a pocket with late season surface water supporting bulrush, cattails and rabbitsfoot grass. Emergent vegetation and late season standing water supports southwestern pond turtles and native amphibians.
Vernal Pools
The Bank Lands contain a mosaic of upland habitats that support 33 natural hardpan vernal pools. The vernal pools are inundated seasonally and support numerous threatened and endangered species. The nearly 7 acres of vernal pool habitat credits represents a critical remnant of the Carrizo Vernal Pool Region as it exists in the vicinity of Paso Robles where vineyards and residential development have nearly eliminated the ecosystem.
Ephemeral Stream
Approximately 29 acres of ephemeral stream habitat credits are provided on the Bank Lands. Most of the ephemeral streams drain in a southwesterly direction into the Salinas Watershed, but two ephemeral streams are tributaries to the Estrella River, flowing northwest in the Estrella Watershed. Ephemeral streams convey surface flow during seasonal precipitation events. Blue oaks comprise the dominant tree canopy over the streams.
