Chapters 1 - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Chapter 3
clean sand suitable for nesting by ground nesting seabirds such as Forster’s terns
(Sterna forsteri) and black skimmers (Rhynchops niger).
Also, as described under Alternative B, other areas of upland adjacent to pathways,
along the edges of existing wetland areas, and beyond the shoulder of existing
roadways would be planted with native upland species following invasive plant removal.
6. Integrated Pest Management
The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan (Appendix C) proposed under
Alternative B would also be implemented under Alternative C.
7. Mosquito Management
Under Alternative C, mosquito management on the Refuge would be implemented
through the phased approach summarized in Alternative B and presented in detail in
the Mosquito Management Plan presented in Appendix D. The only difference
between Alternatives B and C with respect to mosquito management and control is
that under Alternative C, the use of the larvicide Natular would not be permitted for
use on the Refuge.
Public Use Program
Alternative C proposes to expand the existing visitor services opportunities on the Refuge.
The current monthly tours and special tours would continue to be provided in coordination with
NWSSB, as would on- and off-Refuge environmental education activities. This alternative also
proposes to work with NWSSB to increase public access onto the Refuge for wildlife
observation and environmental education purposes. In addition, in partnership with the
NWSSB, funding would be sought to design and construct a two-level, 20-foot-high observation
tower along the east side of Kitts Highway across from the Refuge Headquarters.
Under this alternative, the Refuge, together with NWSSB, would also increase the promotion
of opportunities for environmental education and connecting people with nature on the Refuge
by supporting requests for visits to the Refuge by educational institutions, non-governmental
organizations, and archaeological/historical societies.
Refuge Operations
In addition to the actions addressed under Alternative B, this alternative proposes to expand
on-site Refuge staff, which currently consists of a full-time Refuge Manager and a part-time
maintenance worker, to also include a full-time Wildlife Biologist. This proposal is addressed
in greater detail in Chapter 6.
Coordination with NWSSB
Coordination with NWSSB would continue as described in Alternative A.
Environmental Contaminants Coordination
Environmental contaminants coordination would continue to be implemented as described in
Alternative A.
Cultural Resource Management
Cultural resource management would be implemented as described in Alternative B.
3-38 Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge