Sapphos Environmental, Inc. undertakes field investigations that encompass reconnaissance, general surveys, and focused or directed surveys for special status plant and wildlife species, including listed, sensitive, and locally important species. Field investigations are designed and implemented according to standard sampling and survey techniques consistent with both state and federal guidelines. For state- and federally listed species, qualified permitted biologists conduct surveys that follow the most recent protocols and guidelines. Protocols and guidelines from resource agencies are discussed with agency staff, confirming their use in determining the presence or absence of a particular species or its local status. Field notes are submitted to the client and, if desired, to resource agencies. Information gained from protocol and standard field investigations is evaluated with respect to potential project constraints early in the process. Recommendations are developed to avoid, minimize, and compensate impacts to special status species to the maximum extent practicable. Most agencies require this step-wise evaluation process to take place. Avoidance and minimization of impacts are preferred. In cases where impacts cannot be avoided or significantly reduced, compensation will be considered an appropriate mitigation.

	Owens Lake
	Los Angeles International Airport
	Angeles National Golf Course