"To hunt for prey, burrowing owls need open fields," said Robb Hamilton, biologist for the Conservancy. "Carving up and paving over the grassy mesas with roads, trails, and structures would eliminate the owls' ability to overwinter on Banning Ranch. I'm happy that the staff report recognizes the science here."
Terry Welsh, the Conservancy's president, says the developer has yet to provide the minimum level of scientific information the Coastal Commission needs. "Many of the vernal pools and wetlands on Banning Ranch, which are home to endangered species, have been under-measured. We are still in a major drought, and when normal conditions return, these wetlands will grow. This should be taken into account when establishing buffer zones around the areas."
Welsh added that even with the Coastal Commission staff's reduced project footprint, at the developer's proposed densities, several hundred homes could still be built, resulting in one of Orange County's largest coastal developments ever. "Most Newport Beach real estate developers would love to build on 20 acres with an ocean view."
The final Coastal Commission hearing for Banning Ranch will be on Wednesday, September 7th, at Newport Beach's City Hall. The public is encouraged to voice their concerns. Free parking is available. Learn more: http://www.banningpledge.com/sbr
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/banning-ranch-environmentalists-praise-coastal-commission-staff-report-ahead-of-97-hearing-satisfied-with-protections-for-burrowing-owls-but-will-urge-greater-protection-for-wetlands-300321889.html
SOURCE Banning Ranch Conservancy