California High-Speed Train Project Fresno to Bakersfield Section

The California High-Speed Train Project involves the construction of a 92-mile alignment from Fresno to Bakersfield, extending from the intersection of G Street and San Benito Street in Fresno to Poplar Avenue and Madera Avenue in Shafter. Managed by the California High Speed Rail Authority and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the project is currently governed by Incidental Take Permit No. 2081-2015-024-04. Major Amendment No. 35 specifically updates the permit by modifying Tables 10 and 10A, adding covered activities, and revising species-specific Conditions of Approval to manage the incidental take of various protected wildlife. The project identifies several covered species under the California Endangered Species Act, including the threatened California tiger salamander, San Joaquin antelope squirrel, Swainson's hawk, and San Joaquin kit fox, as well as the endangered Tipton kangaroo rat. The blunt-nosed leopard lizard is designated as both endangered and fully protected under the Fish and Game Code. Compliance requires adherence to specific mitigation measures, monitoring plans, and the provision of performance security for outstanding habitat mitigation lands. All activities must comply with Public Resources Code section 21108 and Fish and Game Code section 711.4 regarding environmental filing fees.