ANTELOPE VALLEY BUSINESS PARK SPECIFIC PLAN

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued an amended Incidental Take Permit (ITP No. 2081b-2022-074-05) to Trader Joe’s Company under Section 2081(b) of the Fish and Game Code for the Antelope Valley Business Park Specific Plan in Palmdale, California. The permit authorizes the collection of western Joshua tree fruit and seeds through 2028 and permits incidental take of the western Joshua tree and Mohave ground squirrel resulting from project activities, with no additional impacts beyond those already accounted for. The project encompasses a 130.06-acre area and involves vegetation clearing, grading, construction of infrastructure and access roads, trenching, excavation for concrete footings, vehicle operation, and related site development activities. All activities must adhere to strict environmental controls including fencing to delineate boundaries, a 20 miles per hour vehicle speed limit, the use of animal-proof trash containers removed at least weekly, prohibition of monofilament netting, motion-sensor outdoor lighting aimed at the ground, and daily equipment checks to prevent leaks. Compliance monitoring requires biweekly inspections by a designated biologist, monthly compliance reports, and full cooperation with CDFW verification efforts. The permit expires on December 31, 2028, and obligations continue until CDFW accepts the final mitigation report. Financial security in the form of an irrevocable letter of credit must be provided prior to commencing covered activities or within 30 days of the permit’s effective date, and may be drawn upon if the permittee fails to comply with conditions. Costs for habitat management lands include acquisition, conservation easement recording, start-up enhancements, interim and long-term management, and transaction fees, with separate allocations for 358 acres of western Joshua tree habitat and 327 acres for the Mohave ground squirrel. Total estimated funding for habitat management exceeds $9 million, split between the two species. The permittee must submit a proposal to CDFW for the selection of an endowment manager, which must be a governmental entity, nonprofit, or other qualified organization capable of long-term stewardship, and CDFW will respond within 30 days or deem the proposal accepted if no response is issued. The permittee must designate a representative for communication with CDFW and a designated biologist whose qualifications and contact details must be submitted using the required form, with any changes subject to prior written approval. CDFW retains