Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey 20 JUNE 2005 Prepared for: CA Coastal Conservancy

Transcription

1 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey 20 JUNE 2005 Prepared for: CA Coastal Conservancy Submitted by: Rosi Dagit, Sr. Conservation Biologist, RCDSMM Dr. Ca Swift, Entrix, Inc. July 20, 2005

2 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table of contents Acknowledgements...4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PURPOSE METHODS Seine Sets Spot Samples Main Lagoon Data Collected Materials Used 7 3. RESULTS. 8 Figure 1. Map of Sampling Locations in Malibu Lagoon, 20 June Table 1. Suary of Water Quality and Habitat Characteristics, 20 June Figure 2. Total Catch per Station..11 Figure 3. Total Catch per Species Station 6 Results 12 Figure 4. Photograph of Station 6.12 Table 2. Station 6 Seine Results Station 4 Results. 14 Figure 5. Photograph of Station Table 3. Station 4 Seine Results Station 8 Results.16 Figure 6. Photograph of Station Spot Checks 1 and 2 Results...17 Table 4 Spot Check 1 and 2 Seine Results Station 3 Results.18 Figure 7. Photograph of Station Spot Checks 3, 4, and 5 Results..19 Table 5. Spot Checks 3, 4, and 5 Seine Results Station 1 Results.. 21 Figure 8. Photograph of Station Table 6. Station 1 Seine Results Station TG1 Results. 23 Figure 9. Photograph of Station TG Table 7. Station TG1 Seine Results DISCUSSION Suary of Species Diversity in Malibu Lagoon Table 8. Suary of Species Observed in Malibu Lagoon, 20 June Endangered Species Found in Malibu Lagoon a. Tidewater Goby

3 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June b. Southern Steelhead Trout c. Pacific Lamprey RECOMMENDATIONS REFERENCES...29 APPENDIX A Field Notes from Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey, 20 June 2005

4 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Acknowledgements This survey would not have been possible without the support of Marc Beyeler, CA Coastal Conservancy, Daniel C. Preece, Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains, and Suzanne Goode, CA Department of Parks and Recreation, Angeles District. The survey was funded by a contract with the CA Coastal Conservancy. Field Assistants are the unsung heroes of fish seining surveys. Those who hauled nets, buckets, water quality equipment and other gear through mud and sand, all with good cheer and great enthusiasm include: Nat Cox Matt Horns Craig Shuman Steve Williams Michelle Tobias Vanessa Tobias Melina Watts Damon Wing, Project Manager, Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains Maps and photographs were downloaded and organized thanks to Mark Abramson and Mike Grier at Heal the Bay.

5 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A one day snapshot of seining was conducted to document fish abundance and diversity, as well as present habitat conditions prior to initiation of the proposed lagoon restoration. Combined with the data collected during extensive multi-year surveys conducted since the 1970 s, it was felt that this would be sufficient to document any significant changes, as well as initiate baseline sampling useful for pre- and post-construction monitoring. A total of 33 species of fish have either historically, presently, or both been found in Malibu Lagoon. This includes several introduced freshwater species, as well as both fresh and marine/estuarine native species. Pacific Lampreys (which are currently petitioned for listing) have rarely been found in any of the surveys, although it is thought that they still episodically colonize the lagoon and creek. Two endangered species have been found in Malibu Lagoon, Southern Steelhead Trout and Tidewater Gobies. The gobies were absent from the lagoon between 1955 and their re-introduction in While no steelhead trout have been observed within the lagoon itself in recent years, the lagoon provides critical migratory passage and potential transitional habitat required by emigrating smolts. On-going monthly snorkel surveys upstream from Cross Creek Road to Rindge Dam continue to document the presence of a small reproducing population of trout. A total of 117 were counted on June 2005, ranging in size from 7 40 cm. A total of 7 species of fish were captured, and an additional species (Striped Mullet) were observed during the one-day survey. The lagoon mouth was open to the ocean, and the flow generally out. The moon was full on 21 June 2005, generating a spring tide the morning of the survey, with overwash evident. While most of the typical marine/estuarine species previously documented in Malibu Lagoon were not captured during this survey, the dominant species captured (Topsmelt, CA Killifish, Mosquitofish and Tidewater Gobies) are consistent with previous studies at this time of year. The abundance of Tidewater Gobies poses a significant constraint to the proposed restoration. The construction of the proposed restoration of Malibu Lagoon should be timed to avoid disturbance of the western shoreline during the months of May- November, when larval Tidewater Gobies are using the nearshore habitat. If grading in that area is necessary, then it is recoended that the gobies be blocked from the area using in-channel netting, and that on-site monitoring by a qualified biologist be required.

6 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June PURPOSE To conduct a one-day survey to document presence, abundance, reproductive status, and size classes of all fishes, especially the federally listened endangered Tidewater Gobies (Eucyclogobius newberryi) in Malibu Lagoon prior to the start of proposed restoration. 2. METHODS Seining was conducted in conformance to the pre and post project monitoring plan protocol, as noted in the Draft Malibu Lagoon Monitoring Plan. Sampling took place on Monday, 20 June 2005 from The lagoon entrance was open and flowing out. Tidal stage was noted at each seine set location. The tide was high at around 0930am (+3.6) and low at 1:55pm (+2.2).It appeared that there had been some tidal overwash during the previous night or early morning. The moon was full on 21 June Sample sites were selected to provide an overview of all potential habitat types in the lagoon, except for the deep thalweg in the center (which was too deep to seine effectively). Sites conform to those proposed for continued post restoration monitoring, plus a known tidewater goby site upstream of the PCH bridge. 2.1 Seine Sets: Full seine sets were completed at 6 locations, including those that were previously sampled by the RCDSMM in , as well as an additional location further up the C Channel (Station 4), which will become a regular monitoring site following restoration. Stations 1 and 8 roughly correspond to areas previously sampled from by the RCDSMM in order to document tidewater goby abundance and distribution. Stations 4 and 6 are located in the existing C channel and were possible to include in this survey. Station 2 corresponds to the inside end of the modified A channel. We attempted to seine at this location but it was too shallow and no fish were observed. Instead, we did some spot sampling on the lagoon side of the shallow rock reef that forms the end of the channel. See the map in Figure 1 for locations of these stations. 1. Station 1 upper lagoon (R11) 2. Station 2 upper slough channel ( A ) 3. Station 4 middle slough channel 4. Station 6 lower slough channel ( C ) 5. Station 8 lower lagoon (S1) 6. TG1- mouth of culvert outlet north of PCH bridge, accessed from Cross Creek Rd. We used two 2 meter x 10 meter blocking nets placed about 10 m apart on the shore, and then ran them out to create a 10m triangle. A 3.2 meter by 1.2 meter x 3 mesh net affixed to poles was then pulled across the blocked area, with the weighted bottom of the net kept firmly along the substrate, and the net angled to prevent fish from escaping. At the end of each pull, the net was raised and all fish were counted, sized, and released. Distances for each seine pull varied depending on the locations. The entire blocked area was sampled in each set. Seining continued at each location within the blocking nets until no more fish were caught in three consecutive hauls. However, in the case of Station 1 and TG1, three consecutive hauls were

7 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June comprised solely of tidewater gobies 10 or smaller and it was deemed potentially harmful to the gobies to continue seining. 2.2 Spot samples: In order to determine if other species were present in other areas of the lagoon, spot samples were taken in 5 additional locations. These locations are noted on the attached map and covered primarily areas along the perimeter of the sandy beach berm, a habitat type not found in the seine set stations. A 3.2 meter by 1.2 meter x 3 mesh net was used to seine starting parallel to the shore, and then pivoting into the shore. Three passes were used at each spot sample location, with each replicate seine completed at a slightly different portion of the station to prevent haul overlap. 2.3 Main Lagoon: Due to the depth of the thalweg, sampling was not possible in the central portion of the main body of the lagoon. Instead, Dr. Swift and the team used visual observations. Several large schools of stripped mullet were observed. 2.4 Data collected included: - Numbers of each species, standard length, reproductive status of individuals and their characteristics, observations of any parasites or lesions; - Location of the seine, direction of pull, distance seined, habitat characteristics including substrate, algal cover, shelter, etc.; - Water quality observations including, depth, temperature, dissolved oxygen, salinity, ph, and in the case of creek channels, flow; - Weather conditions including air temperature, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, precipitation. Fish were removed from the net and placed in buckets filled with water, measured and released outside the blocking net area. 2.5 Materials Used: 2 meter x 10 meter blocking nets (2) 3.2 meter x 1.2 meter x 3 mesh net 3/4 inch rebar stakes 4 tall, or fence stakes to secure blocking nets (3) 5 gallon buckets (6) Water quality test kit: DO meter, refractometer, ph meter, flow meter Meter measuring stick for depth Fish measuring pan Digital camera Voucher collection jars and 90% ethanol Rite in the rain paper for labeling voucher samples Three clipboards and data sheets for weather and water quality, fish data pencils Field guide to fishes of Malibu Lagoon for reference Trimble GPS Equipment

8 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June RESULTS Sampling was conducted and is reported in the following order: Station 6 ( C Channel, just upstream from the second bridge on the path to the beach) Station 4 (further upstream in the C channel) Station 8 (in the channel from the main lagoon to ocean) Spot Checks 1 and 2 along the gravel bar on the lagoon side of the beach berm Station 3 (inside of the bar at mouth of channel A, also known as Bird Point) Spot Checks 3 and 4 along the shallow inside channel, and Spot Check 5 in the Main Lagoon at the end of channel A Station 1 (10 m downstream of the PCH bridge, on west bank) Station TG1 (located on sandy beach below riprap, at mouth of culvert at the upstream end of the Cross Creek Rd. parking lot) The weather was sunny and clear the whole day, with a light breeze from the south. The entrance of the lagoon remained open for the duration of the survey, with flow primarily out. The tide was high at the start of the survey and fell during the day. Table 1 suarizes the water quality and habitat characteristics of the stations. Field notes are included in Appendix A. The data on fishes has also been incorporated into an Excel spreadsheet for use in future surveys. GPS data was collected as both points and polygons. The data is corrected and based on the UTM11, NAD27 basemaps. The conductivity meter failed in the field, so that data is missing from this event. Voucher specimens of smelt were collected by Dr. Swift to verify identification. Any non-native invasive species captured, such as mosquitofish, were left on the bank for the birds. Shelter Value reflects a suite of variables that together provide suitable habitat for fish. These variables include: maximum and average depth, substrate composition related to spawning gravel and embededness, bottom complexity and in-water shelter. In this survey, Shelter Value was ranked as follows: Poor Shallow, warm water, little bottom complexity with no instream cover available Fair Varied depth, salt water lens on bottom, <25% bottom complexity and instream cover Good Varied depth, salt water lens on bottom, 25-50% bottom complexity and instream cover 3 Excellent Varied depth, salt water lens on bottom, >50% bottom complexity and instream cover

9 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Figure 1. Map of Sampling Locations in Malibu Lagoon, 20 June 2005

10 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 1. Suary of Water Quality and Habitat Characteristics, Malibu Lagoon, 20 June 2005 Site Station 1 Station 4 Station 8 Spot check Station 3 Spot check Station 1 Station TG Time Habitat: Depth (cm) Substrate Silty mud Silty mud sand sand Silty sand sand Cobble - silt Sand/ boulder Shelter Value Algae surface Algae attached Algae species Ruppia Ruppia Enteromorpha Entromorpha Water Quality Not collected Not collected Air T 0 C Water T 0 C surface Water T 0 C NA bottom Salinity ppt surface Salinity ppt NA bottom PH NA surface PH NA NA bottom Dissolved NA Oxygen mg/l - surface Dissolved Oxygen mg/l - bottom NA NA

11 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Figure 2. Total Catch per Station Total Catch per Station 300 Numbers of Individuals Eucyclogobius newberryi Gambusia affinis Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gambusia affinis Atherinops sp. Fundulus parvipinnis Girella nigricans Atherinops sp. Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gillichthys mirabilis Species Atherinops sp. Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis SHRIMP Atherinops sp. Cyprinus carpio Eucyclogobius newberryi SHRIMP Station 6 Station 4 Spot check1-2 Spot Check 3-5 Station 1 Station TG1 Figure 3. Total Catch per Species Number of Individuals Atherinops sp. Cyprinus carpio Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gambusia affinis Gillichthys mirabilis Girella nigricans Species

12 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station 6 ( C Channel, just upstream from the second bridge on the path to the beach) Corresponds to Site C in Manion and Dillingham, 1989 Figure 4. Photograph of Station 6 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area Sampled: 43 square meters Sampling at this site was made difficult by the dense mats of Ruppia sp., which choked the area inside the blocking nets. In order to move the seine net through, we had to toss the algae outside the sample area, which may have biased the sample by removing small fishes clinging or caught up in the algae. The mud was difficult to move through, with researchers sinking in above the knee with each step. A total of 35 passes were made with the seine, each capturing a few fishes. We got three empty hauls, but on doing just one more pass, captured more fish, so continued on for an hour total. Photos were taken from the south end of the bridge, looking west from the 2 nd bridge upright.

13 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 2. Station 6 Seine Results Eucyclogobius newberryi Gambusia affinis Gravid? 5 0 SL < > Notes TOTAL 68 1 Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi)

14 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station 4 (further upstream in the C channel) No previous sampling done in this location. Figure 5. Photograph of Station 4 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area Sampled: 43 square meters Moving up the C channel to the west, we selected a sample location near the site of the proposed bend in the restored lagoon channel design. Again, the silty mud made moving through the sampling area difficult, as did the complete Ruppia sp. cover. We removed the algae before seining, and noted that approximately 15 young of the year Gambusia sp. escaped as the blocking nets were being set. A total of 19 passes were made with the seine, covering the entire blocked area. The larval Gambusia were so numerous in this location that we did not achieve 3 empty hauls, and thus continued sampling for approximately 1 hour. Movement through the area was quite difficult, and each haul captured many fish, which accounts for the fewer number of hauls. Photos were taken from the west bank, approximately 20 feet up from the edge of the bank.

15 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 3. Station 4 Seine Results Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gambusia affinis Gravid? SL< > Notes TOTAL CA Killifish (Fundulus parvipinnis)

16 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station 8 (in the channel from the main lagoon to ocean) Corresponds to Site S1 in Manion and Dillingham, Figure 6. Photograph of Station 8 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area sampled: 43 square meters The location of this set was mid-way through the breach, before it turned sharply eastward. The flow was enough to make setting the blocking nets difficult. We set the nets perpendicular to the flow (measured at 0.7 ft/sec), and needed people to stand on the weights to keep them securely on the bottom. A total of ten passes were made with the seine, covering the entire blocked area. Photo taken from the beach on the west side, looking east towards the Adamson House. Seine Results: No fish caught or observed in the breach channel.

17 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Spot Checks 1 and 2 along the gravel bar on the lagoon side of the beach berm Sampling time: Spot Check 1 GPS Location: Northing Easting Spot Check 2 GPS Location: Northing Easting Area sampled: 18 square meters (approximate) A series of hauls were done along the lagoon side of the beach berm, to the west of the gravel bar formed near the breach channel. Larval Killifish were observed schooling on the downstream side of the gravel bar. A salt lens persisted, even in these shallow edge waters. Debris, including logs and boulders provided limited shelter areas. The bottom was primarily sandy, with some gravel. A total of nine passes were made, starting parallel to shore, and pivoting the net to the beach. Table 4. Spot Checks 1 and 2 Seine Results Atherinops sp. Fundulus parvipinnis Girella nigricans Gravid? SL< > Notes TOTAL Opaleye (Girella nigricans)

18 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station 3 (inside of the bar at mouth of channel A, also known as Bird Point) Corresponds to Site A in Manion and Dillingham, Figure 7. Photograph of Station 3 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area sampled: 43 square meters The blocking nets were initially set about 20 meters upstream from the mouth of A channel, which ends with a rocky bar as it meets the main body of the lagoon. This area was reconfigured in the late 1990 s with a grant to provide more mud-flat feeding habitat. The area was quite shallow (less than 15 cm), with gentle banks and a silty, sandy substrate. A total of three passes were made in the blocked area. Photos were taken from the west side of the Bird Point. Station 3 Seining Results: No fish were caught or observed.

19 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Spot Checks 3 and 4 along the shallow inside channel, and Spot Check 5 in the Main Lagoon at the end of channel A Spot Check 4 Sampling time: Spot Check 3 GPS Location: Northing Easting Spot Check 4 GPS Location: Northing Easting Spot Check 5 GPS Location: Northing Easting Area Sampled: 20 square meters (approximately) Since no fish were found at Station 3, we conducted some spot checks both up and downstream from the blocking net location. Checks 3 and 4 covered an area of approximately 4 square meters in sandy, shallow, warm backwaters. Check 5 was located on the other side of the rocky bar, along the edge of the main body of the lagoon. Here the substrate contained more cobbles and boulders, making seining quite a challenge. A total of seven passes were made.

20 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 5. Spot Check 3, 4, and 5 Seine Results Atherinops sp. Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gillichthys mirabilis Gravid? SL < > Notes TOTAL Longjaw Mudsucker (Gillichthys mirabilis)

21 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station 1 (10 m downstream of the PCH bridge, on west bank) Corresponds to site R11 in Manion and Dillingham, 1989 and Ambrose et al., Figure 8. Photograph of Station 1 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area Sampled: 43 square meters Station 1 corresponds to a location sampled consistently during the surveys documenting recovery of the re-introduced Tidewater gobies. This site was selected for the survey as it is adjacent to the west thalweg as it comes downstream under the PCH bridge and enters the main body of the lagoon. The varied substrate (a mix of cobble, sand, and silt) provides good habitat for the larval gobies. A total of five passes were made, each capturing large numbers of larval gobies (less than 10 ).Few other species were represented, indicating that this area was dominated by tidewater gobies. In order to avoid accidental injury or take, we ceased seining at this location. Photos were taken from the end of the trail, just downstream of the PCH bridge, looking WSW towards the beach.

22 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 6. Station 1 Seine Results Atherinops sp. Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis SHRIMP Gravid? SL < > Notes TOTAL Oriental Shrimp (Palaemon macrodactulus)

23 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Station TG1 (located on sandy beach below riprap, at mouth of culvert at the upstream end of the Cross Creek Rd. parking lot) Figure 9. Photograph of Station TG1 Sampling time: GPS Location: Northing Easting Area Sampled: 43 square meters Station TG1 corresponds to a location sampled consistently during the surveys documenting the recovery of the re-introduced Tidewater gobies. This site was selected to determine how far upstream towards the upper end of the lagoon could be colonized by the gobies. The site is quite disturbed, comprised of a sandy bench at the toe of a riprap slope protecting the north end of the Cross Creek Road parking lot. A culvert drainage defines the north end of the bank, with a sandy willow covered bar. Loose riprap boulders are scattered on the sandy bottom. The depth drops to over 180 cm as the bank reaches one of the thalwegs. This location has typically hosted numerous gobies. A total of five passes were made within the blocked area. Again, the dominant catch was larval gobies, and seining was stopped in order to avoid accidental injury or take. Photos were taken from the top of the riprap slope, by the chain link fence post.

24 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Table 7. Station TG1 Seine Results (Note: No fish were observed or caught by the culvert outfall.) Atherinops sp. Cyprinus carpio Eucyclogobius SHRIMP newberryi Gravid? SL < > Notes Not measured not measured Not measured TOTAL DISCUSSION Wetlands in Southern CA have a long history of human and natural disruptions, and Malibu Lagoon has experienced many of these over the years. Initially covering the entire floodplain, the historic lagoon was seasonally open during the wet winters and closed during the warm suer months. Beginning in the 1800 s, the lagoon area was modified to support large numbers of cattle and small-scale agriculture. When Pacific Coast Highway was built in the 1920 s, additional sections of the lagoon were filled to create a road bed. Over the years, the development of homes and businesses in the former lagoon area continued. By the 1970 s, Caltrans had dumped tons of fill material into the lagoon to form the base of the counity ballfields. Upstream, the development of the upper Malibu Watershed resulted in the expansion of the Tapia Treatment Plant, which began discharging in the 1960 s. by the 1980 s, up to million gallons per day of secondary treated wastewater was released down Malibu Creek and into the lagoon. This input of large quantities of fresh water, especially during the naturally dry suer months, caused significant changes to the hydrologic regime of the lagoon. The added nutrient levels from the urban run-off also created significant impacts. In 1984, the first attempt at restoring the lagoon was undertaken by CA Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR). During the late 1980 s, the water level in the lagoon was managed by nonseasonal breaching, done either legally by CDPR or illegally by surfers. Water quality in the lagoon became a serious public health issue, and tremendous public discussion continues to date on the best way to manage the lagoon so that it provides suitable habitat for a suite of native aquatic flora and fauna, but also addresses the non-point source pollution problems.

25 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June The present restoration proposal intends to increase circulation within the lagoon, to help control bacteria problems, provide additional habitat, and restore a more natural process to the lagoon ecosystem. 4.1 Suary of Species Diversity in Malibu Lagoon Over the years a series of studies have been done looking at the suite of fish species, abundance and seasonal fluctuations of these species in Malibu Lagoon. The diversity of species has changed over the years, not only related to the shifts between brackish and fresh water dominance, but also due to the influx of invasive exotic fishes and the re-introduction of the endangered Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi) in Soltz (1979) found a total of 10 species. Fitzgerald and Hasz (1982) found 11 species in a two year sampling period. Swift (1989) used historical accounts and documented a total of 25 potential species. Jensen (in Manion and Dillingham, 1989) noted a total of 13 species collected in Surveys done by Ambrose, et al (1995, 2000) found a total of 13 species as well. These studies have documented a total of 33 species of fishes from in Malibu Lagoon, depending on season and status of the lagoon entrance condition. During this one-day survey, only eight species were captured, and we observed but did not catch Striped Mullet. Table 8. Suary of Species Observed in Malibu Lagoon, 20 June 2005 TOTAL % of Species Captured Total Atherinops sp Cyprinus carpio Eucyclogobius newberryi Fundulus parvipinnis Gambusia affinis Gillichthys mirabilis Girella nigricans SHRIMP TOTAL Several sensitive species are known from Malibu Lagoon, either historically, or presently. These include the native freshwater species: Pacific Lamprey Entospenus tridentatus (Petitioned for Listing) Steelhead Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (Federally Endangered) Arroyo Chub Gila orcutti (CA Species of Special Concern) Coho or Silver Salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch (Federally Endangered) Additionally, the endangered estuarine Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi) was historically present and re-introduced to Malibu Lagoon in 1991.

26 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Other marine/estuarine species documented in Malibu Lagoon include: CA Killifish Fundulus parvipinnis Pipefish Syngnathus sp. Striped Mullet Mugil cephalus Staghorn Sculpin Leptocottus armatus Long jaw Mudsucker Gillichthys mirabilis Arrow Goby Clevelandia ios Starry Flounder Plaichthys stellatus CA Halibut Paralichthys californicus Diamond Turbot Hypsopsetta guttalata Spotted Turbot Pleuronichthys ritteri Shiner Perch Cymatogaster aggregata Dwarf Surfperch Micrometrus minimus Northern Anchovy Engravilis mordax Striped Kelpfish Gibbonisia metzi Crevice Kelpfish Gibbonisia montereyensis Opaleye Girella nigricans Jacksmelt Atherinops californiensis Topsmelt Atherinops affinis Queenfish Seriphus politus Grunion Leuresthes tenuis Barred Sand Bass Paralabrax nebulifer Serranid juv. Paralabrax sp. Bay Blenny Hypsoblennius gentilis Introduced Freshwater species include: Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis Black Bullhead Ictalurus melas Carp Cyprinus carpio A comparison of the dominantly fresh/brackish water species found in this survey event to those in previous surveys indicates a shift from the more marine/estuarine conditions found following the 1980 restoration and accompanied by non-seasonal breaching of the lagoon mouth at Surfrider Beach into the ocean. Since non-seasonal input of reclaimed water from upstream has been reduced and eliminated during the suer months, the lagoon is open to marine influences only during the natural storm event or tidal overwash cycles. Although it was clear that a brackish to salt water lens was present throughout the lagoon at the time of the survey, the abundance of Mosquitofish, a freshwater loving species, was interesting to note. The typically dominant species found, both in the past and during this survey were larval Topsmelt and CA Killifish, followed by larval Tidewater Gobies. The relative abundance of the Topsmelt and CA Killifish are consistent with data collected at this time of year in all previous studies. This indicates their tolerance of wide ranges of temperatures and salinities and is typical for these two

27 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June estuarine species at this season. Thousands of very small young-of-the-year topsmelt were seen at Station 1 and in the spot checks near Station 3, along the west side of the main lagoon. Few individuals of the more salt-water dependent species were seen, although schools of striped mullet were observed in the deeper areas of the lagoon. This is in marked contrast to the sampling conducted by Manion and Dillingham (1989), which documented year round residence of staghorn sculpin and arrow gobies, neither of which were observed during this survey. The most important observation is the shift in abundance of non-native Gambusia affinis. In 1989, a total of 16 individuals were caught out of a total of 9,648 fish. By contrast, the mosquitofish now outrank native CA Killifish in relative abundance. Mosquitofish were almost exclusively found in the highly vegetated backwater slough that was warmer than the lagoon. This live bearing exotic fish needs about three weeks above 20 0 C to produce a brood of young. While never coon, we did expect to find at least a few juvenile flatfishes, like the Turbot and Halibut, both of which have used the lagoon as a nursery during this season in past years. None were observed in this survey. Grunion are not coon in the lagoon. However, overwash associated with spawning cycles and the spring tides occasionally create an opportunity for them to be found as stranded adults or recently hatched larvae and small juveniles. 4.2 Sensitive Species Found in Malibu Lagoon 4.2.a. Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi) The species of most concern during the restoration process is the Tidewater Goby, which is a federally listed endangered species. Previous studies have documented the recovery of this species since it s re-introduction in 1991, and indicate that the area on the west side of the lagoon both up and downstream of the PCH bridge consistently hosts gobies year round, with size classes and densities varying seasonally. The peak of larval gobies is in the spring and fall (Manion and Dillingham 1989, Ambrose et al. 1995, Dagit and Williams 2005), suggesting that 2 reproductive periods can occur when conditions are favorable. It was interesting to find gobies in channel C, suggesting that protection of these fishes throughout the entire restoration area will be required. Apparently channel C (Station 6) serves as a feeding and protected area but not a reproduction site, since all the smaller gobies were taken in the main lagoon (Station 1 and TG1) closer to the required sandy spawning substrate. 4.2.b Southern Steelhead Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Estuaries are known to be important transitional habitats for steelhead smolts leaving their natal stream and heading out to sea, as well as critical migratory passageways for adults coming in to spawn during storm events (Swift, 1975). In the Santa Monica Bay, steelhead typically enter the creeks during winter storms, spawn and either return to the sea while flows are still high, or remain in the creek during the subsequent suer and fall. Patterns of steelhead presence and reproduction in Malibu Creek have been sporadically studied since the 1980 s, and monthly snorkel surveys are planned from June 2005 through June 2007.

28 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June No steelhead adults or smolts have been documented by any of the fish surveys in Malibu Lagoon. During this survey, both surface and bottom water temperatures were between 21 0 C and C. Although able to tolerate temperature spikes into the mid-20 s, steelhead prefer to inhabit cooler waters. The temperature limitations of the lagoon could be a major reason for their absence at this season. Presence of young of the year, as well as several size classes has been documented in Malibu Creek as far upstream as Rindge Dam (Dagit et al, 2005). The snorkel survey done on June 2005 from just above Cross Creek Road to the dam found a total of 117 trout ranging in size from 7 cm young of the year with parr marks to 40 cm adults. 4.2.c Pacific Lamprey (Lampetra tridentata) Pacific Lampreys are anadromous, like the steelhead trout. The adults enter streams to spawn in November to March, dying shortly after they lay eggs in gravelly areas of the stream. The young, known as aocoetes, hatch out within two three weeks and remain in fresh water for an unknown time period, perhaps as long as four to six years. They burrow in soft substrates in well oxygenated areas, and filter feed on detritus. Lamprey spawning season, temperature requirements, and spawning bed requirements are similar to those of steelhead. Also like steelhead, they eventually migrate to the ocean and eventually return as adults to spawn. Populations of Pacific lampreys have declined, as have salmon and steelhead, due to a combination of habitat loss, restricted migratory opportunities, changes in sedimentation and water quality and competition or predation by introduced species. Lampreys, including L tridentata, the species found locally, have been petitioned for listing through the US Fish and Wildlife Service. While much of Malibu Creek historically contained suitable habitat and lampreys were present, adults have not been found in any of the surveys since the 1980 s. Several aoceotes were found near Station TG1 during seining in the early 1990 s (Swift, per. counication). A targeted study searching for aocoetes is underway, headed by Dr. Stewart Reid, who is conducting a genetic survey for the entire coast of California and has included Malibu Lagoon and Creek in his surveys in RECOMMENDATIONS A one day snapshot of fish abundance and diversity was conducted to document present habitat conditions and fish presence prior to initiation of the proposed lagoon restoration. Combined with the extensive multi-year surveys conducted since the 1970 s, it was felt that this would be sufficient to document any significant changes, as well as initiate a baseline useful for pre- and post-construction monitoring. While most of the typical marine/estuarine species previously documented in Malibu Lagoon were not captured during this survey, the dominant suite of species, (Topsmelt, CA Killifish, Mosquitofish and Tidewater Gobies) are consistent with previous studies at this season.

29 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June The abundance of Tidewater Gobies this year poses a significant constraint to the proposed restoration. Goby populations are known to fluctuate dramatically year-to-year, so it is difficult to determine what the status will be at the time construction begins. The construction of the proposed restoration of Malibu Lagoon should be timed to avoid disturbance of the western shoreline during the months of May November, when larval Tidewater Gobies are using the nearshore habitat. Depending on the rainfall pattern, larval gobies could be present all year. If grading in this area is necessary, then it is recoended that the gobies be blocked from the area using in-channel netting. On-site monitoring by a competent fisheries biologist during any channel or bank disturbance should be required. 6. REFERENCES Ambrose, Richard, I.M. Suffet, S.S. Que Hee Enhanced Environmental Monitoring Program at Malibu Lagoon and Malibu Creek. Prepared for Las Virgenes Municipal Water District. UCLA, March 23, Ambrose, Richard and A. R. Orme Lower Malibu Creek and Lagoon Resource Enhancement and Management. Final Report to the CA Coastal Conservancy, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA. Dagit, Rosi, S.L. Drill and B. Meyer Historical Distribution of Southern Steelhead Trout in the Santa Monica Bay Region. Report prepared for CA Department of Fish and Game and NOAA Fisheries, July Dagit, Rosi and S. Williams Suary of Tidewater Goby Observations, Malibu Lagoon, Malibu, CA for Permit PRT Data collected for Caltrans Mitigation Contract Repair of the Pacific Coast Highway Bridge over Malibu Lagoon. Submitted to USFWS, March Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga, CA. Fitzgerald, C. and L. Hasz Water quality and fish sampling results from Malibu Lagoon: Pre-restoration period. Unpublished report, pg. 15. Manion, Sean The Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi). Reintroduction of a geographically isolated fish species into Malibu Lagoon: A watershed perspective. Final Report to CA. Department of Parks and Recreation, Contract # Topanga Las Virgenes Resource Conservation District, June Manion, Sean, and J. Dillingham Malibu Lagoon: A Baseline Ecological Study. Topanga- Las Virgenes Resource Conservation District, Topanga, CA. Soltz, D. L Fishes of Malibu Creek July July Dept. of Biology, CA State University, Los Angeles.

30 Malibu Lagoon Fish Survey June Swift, Ca A list of the fishes of Malibu Creek and Lagoon with a brief description of their habitat requirements and seasonal requirements. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, May 30, Swift, Ca, et al Status and Distribution of the Freshwater Fishes of Southern California. Bulletin of Southern CA Academy of Science 92(3):