U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Recovery Implementation Strategy for Kuenzler Hedgehog ( fendleri var. kuenzleri)

Kuenzler hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri) Photograph: Vance Wolf, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

September 2020 This page is let blank intentionally ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service met with numerous agencies in developing Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery actions and activities. We offer a special thanks to the following individuals from the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, and University of New Mexico’s Natural Heritage New Mexico program for their contributions to this document.

Bureau of Land Management Katie Sandbom Daniel Baggao Patrick Alexander Zoe Davidson

U.S. Forest Service Aurora Roemmich Kathryn Kennedy

New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Daniela Roth

University of New Mexico (Natural Heritage New Mexico) Esteban Muldavin

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office) Vance Wolf, co-author Frank Weaver, co-author Debra Hill George Dennis Chuck Hayes

i 1. INTRODUCTION

This Recovery Implementation Strategy (RIS) specifies the activities necessary to fully implement the recovery actions that are specified in the Recovery Plan for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 2020). Along with the recovery actions, the Recovery Plan contains the recovery strategy, recovery objectives, and recovery criteria for the species. Designed to provide more focused detail than the recovery actions in the Recovery Plan, the recovery activities found herein are prioritized in terms of their importance for recovery. An assessment of the biology, life history, and status of the Kuenzler hedgehog cactus is available in the Species Status Assessment Report (SSA; USFWS 2017), which can be found at https://ecos.fws.gov. The Species Status Assessment Report and this Recovery Implementation Strategy will be updated as necessary.

Kuenzler hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri) is a small cactus that is endemic to the Sacramento Mountains in Lincoln County, New Mexico, and the Guadalupe Mountains in Eddy County, New Mexico. Typical Kuenzler hedgehog cactus habitat includes lower-elevation pinyon-juniper woodlands from about 1,560 to 2,130 meters (5,100 to 6,990 feet) elevation. Kuenzler hedgehog cactus was listed as endangered in 1979 and reclassified to threatened in 2018 under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 USC 1531 et seq.). Under the ESA, a species is an endangered or threatened species based on any one or a combination of the five listing factors established under section 4(a)(1): (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Wildfire (Factor A), illegal collection (Factor B), small population size and low density (Factor E), and climate change (Factor A) are moderate threats for this species, while livestock grazing (Factor A) is considered a low-level threat (USFWS 2018).

2. RECOVERY ACTIONS AS RESPONSES TO THREATS

The first (1.0), third (3.0) and sixth (6.0) recovery actions address all identified threats to this species (listing factors A, B, and E). Monitored locations will establish a baseline, and assessment of data will determine trends (stable, increasing or decreasing); therefore addressing the threat of small population size and density. Threats such as private and commercial collection and livestock grazing are ameliorated by monitoring and the resulting ability to implement site- specific management activities such as development of enclosures or increased law enforcement presence. Impacts from natural events such as drought associated with climate change, and wildfire will be monitored by evaluating species response to these stochastic events and whether the population can sustain itself naturally.

The second (2.0) recovery action address research needs and data gaps necessary to understand the species biology and associated threats. Listing factors A and E are addressed with this action and will identify correlations or causations that are necessary for understanding best management practices for this species.

2 Recovery actions four (4.0) and five (5.0) address listing factors A and B. Communicating and coordinating with a breadth of stakeholders will reduce threats and enhance the conservation of the species.

Lastly, the seventh (7.0) recovery action addresses small population size and low density (listing factor E) by establishing monitoring protocols prior to delisting, to ensure conservation into the future.

3. RECOVERY ACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES

The recovery program for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus is divided into five major areas of action: (1) surveying and monitoring; (2) research; (3) protection and conservation; (4) communication; (5) coordination; (6) habitat management plan; and (7) post-delisting monitoring. Overall, these sets of actions are tied directly to achievement of the recovery criteria for the species, and they are arranged in hierarchical order, with more specific activities stepping down from the broad actions that link to the criteria.

***The threats addressed by action (1.0) and activities (1.1-1.4.4) are livestock grazing, private and commercial collection, wildfire, drought from climate change, and small population and low density. Locating and conserving new populations is important to see how the species responds to the aforementioned threats. A significant portion of the potential habitat has not been surveyed and could help to ameliorate threats.

1.0 Survey for additional populations and monitor all known populations in order to apply conservation measures as needed. Survey for previously unknown populations of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus to confirm or expand understanding of the abundance and range of the species. Monitor all populations to determine trends, threats, and progress towards recovery. (addresses Recovery Criteria 1-3 and listing factors A, B, and E)

1.1 Locate and conserve additional extant populations. Suitable habitat has not been fully surveyed for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, and the recent discovery of additional individuals indicates that undiscovered populations may exist within or beyond the known range.

1.2 Implement new surveys in potential habitat areas, emphasizing locations that may provide connectivity among known populations. Information gained in survey efforts may have a significant bearing on the recovery strategy for this species (i.e., in relation to cactus abundance and distribution necessary and available for recovery). Surveys should be guided by the best available data and the most recent habitat model.

1.2.1 Refine suitable habitat model. Using available data on individual and their surrounding environmental and ecological conditions to refine a dynamic habitat model for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus would allow researchers to search for new populations more efficiently. The model should identify factors associated with the survival and well-being of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus individuals and populations.

3 1.2.2 Delineate appropriate potential habitat areas and conduct surveys on federal lands. Habitat elements required by Kuenzler hedgehog cactus can be evaluated through existing information. Habitat relationships should be used to refine habitat delineation and create maps of potential habitat within the species’ range. Survey efforts should address data gaps in areas of suitable habitat that are currently thought to be unoccupied. Additionally, survey efforts could include soil data collection and other variables that will develop and refine a habitat suitability model.

1.2.3 Maintain a database for survey efforts, including negative results. To assess status of inventory needs and efforts for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, a database should be maintained for compiling new survey data and analyzing compiled results of all agency surveys. Survey data should be considered valid for 3 years, as biological changes are expected outside of 3 years.

1.3 Monitor Kuenzler hedgehog cactus sites for threats and population implications, and address threats as needed. Regular, standardized monitoring is vital for determining whether the species is declining or in recovery, what threats are of most concern to individual populations, and what impact those threats are having. Monitoring plans need to include survey methodologies, disturbance thresholds requiring management intervention for threat abatement, and recommended management actions in response to monitoring results.

1.3.1 Scientifically determine appropriate disturbance thresholds for each individual threat, and use thresholds to assess needs for threat abatement. Managing agencies should conduct studies to determine population resistance to individual threats, and apply disturbance thresholds accordingly. Threats exceeding tolerance thresholds will be managed with a “top-down” approach, addressing the most significant threat first.

1.3.2 Address threats to each population with a “top-down” approach, addressing the most significant threat first. Implementation priorities will be determined based on the magnitude exceedances of disturbance thresholds.

1.4 Develop and follow standardized range-wide survey and monitoring procedures for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Participants in Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery should work together to standardize surveying and monitoring procedures across management jurisdictions, to determine long-term population trends. A total population estimate may be developed from reliable monitoring data for management purposes, but is not a required component of the recovery criteria.

1.4.1 Implement standardized vegetation monitoring methods and reporting on federal lands. A joint effort on the part of federal agencies and interested parties is needed to refine monitoring approaches. There is a fundamental need for range-wide assessment of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus population trends to evaluate population health and stability, management of threats, and effectiveness of recovery implementation. A standardized monitoring program

4 should be developed to provide a continuous assessment of population trends and demographic parameters to determine the species’ biological status (e.g., stable, improving, or declining) relative to recovery criteria.

1.4.2 Create a database for long-term collection and evaluation of survey and monitoring data. Participating federal agencies should develop a single repository and common database for all monitoring and survey results.

***The threats addressed by action (2.0) and activities (2.1-2.3.8) are livestock grazing, wildfire, drought from climate adaptation, and small population and low density. Research is important to understand the species biology and relationships to threats. Research can identify the cause of declines and assist in making management- related changes.

2.0 Conduct in-depth research into the biology, requirements, threat responses, and life history of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus in order to develop and implement appropriate management practices to achieve recovery. (Recovery Criteria 1 and 3 and listing factors A and E)

2.1 Establish a set of need-based research priorities aimed at increasing population health and numbers, and alleviating or minimizing threats. Although some aspects of the biological requirements of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus are known, information gaps must be filled to achieve recovery and conservation. Research for recovery purposes will be aimed specifically at the protection and conservation of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Studies may reveal new techniques or actions for recovery, which will be incorporated into an updated Recovery Implementation Strategy as appropriate.

2.2 Analyze available data and identify data needs for evaluating population trends on an annual and cumulative basis. Limited data have been collected for the species. However, analysis of existing datasets will provide an important baseline for future trend analyses as recovery proceeds. Analyses may indicate further data collection needs, and provide a platform for refining and standardizing data collection methods. When analyzing available data, experts should identify the data inputs needed for a defensible quantitative predictive model, such as a population viability analysis. Data on changing climate and weather patterns that may affect Kuenzler hedgehog cactus should be evaluated. These activities should be coordinated with recovery activity 3.1.

2.3 Conduct applied investigations into the biology and life history of the species. Apply research results to support recovery. The information base should be sufficiently complete to ensure the effectiveness of recovery efforts. Information needs include determining population status and habitat needs, and identifying sites of unknown but potential Kuenzler hedgehog cactus occupancy.

2.3.1 Pollinator research. Conservation of pollinators and their habitats is fundamental to recovery of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Research is needed regarding essential pollinators and their role in the reproductive biology of

5 Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Knowledge of pollinator presence, density, preference of floral resources, and nesting substrate may be essential to the viability of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations, identifying habitat protection, and assessing the suitability of potential introduction sites.

2.3.2 Habitat substrates and soil conditions research. Soil profiling and documenting other natural land conditions at known locations of the species may provide insight into current life-supporting conditions for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, and aid in promoting adaptability of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations to natural and anthropogenic stressors.

2.3.3 Genetic variation and reproductive biology research. The amount of variation within the gene pool of cactus sites is unknown. Genetic information should be obtained and evaluated with regard to resiliency, genetic drift, and inbreeding depression. Genetic diversity research may illuminate potential information gaps regarding reproductive biology, biological constraints, microhabitat requirements, effective habitat size and connectivity, and clarify the effects of various activities on population viability. Information on seed set and viability is needed to build a predictive model for determining population trends.

2.3.4 Herbivory and disease research. Herbivory has been observed to damage Kuenzler hedgehog cactus stems and flowers. Additional efforts should document herbivores and quantify effects to reproductive output from herbivory by insects and small mammals, and used in parameterizing predictive models.

2.3.5 Modeling. Modeling provides a means of using data on demographic processes and environmental variability to estimate probability of over a specific time, assess recovery success, and determine management needs. Models should evaluate alternative management strategies, and be updated to track recovery progress of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations and habitats. The quality of the models will improve over time commensurate with the availability of demographic information, such as viable seed longevity and seedling survivorship rates. Population modeling should consider precipitation cycles, threat levels, pollinator success, and genetic data.

2.3.6 Restoration and propagation research. In order to recover Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, it is vital to know what restoration methods are effective, and how to propagate and reintroduce the species if needed due to population declines.

2.3.7 Investigate wild cactus subpopulation response to wildfire or prescribed fire. Wildfire occurs naturally on the landscape, but increased drought and temperatures can exacerbate conditions conducive to catastrophic wildfires. Examining wild Kuenzler hedgehog cactus responses to wildfire or prescribed

6 burns could help enlighten management of the species to ensure persistence in its ecological setting. For example, Kuenzler hedgehog cactus have been found persisting a year after the Crooked Creek wildfire on the Lincoln National Forest, but long-term implications are unknown. Fuel loading should be considered to examine naturally occurring fuel loads versus threshold that lead to fire-related cactus mortality.

2.3.8 Response to livestock management changes. Monitoring is needed to identify Kuenzler hedgehog cactus responses to changes in livestock management. These changes could include increase or reduction of stocking rates, relocation of water sources, exclusionary fencing, or changes in timing of grazing. Cactus populations should be monitored for changes in reproductive effort, recruitment, size classes, and survivorship under different grazing regimes.

***The threats addressed by action (3.0) and activities (3.1-3.11.4) are livestock grazing, private and commercial collection, wildfire, drought from climate adaptation, and small population and low density. Federal agencies have an affirmative conservation mandate under Section 7(a)(1) of the ESA. Proper land management helps ameliorate threats by scoping and consultation for future proposed actions that may impact the cacti. Natural threats such as wildfire and drought are monitored by conserving known extant core sites or subpopulations.

3.0 Protect and conserve known extant Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations and their habitat. (Recovery Criteria 1-3 and listing factors A, B, and E)

3.1 Protect populations on federal lands through formal agreements or land designations that would not require disclosure of population locations. Critical habitat designation is not recommended due to potential for illegal collection should populations become public (USFWS 2018). Other designations or agreements can provide equal or greater protection for the species without public disclosure of specific localities. Long-term management agreements, conservation agreements, management plans, land designations (such as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern or National Conservation Area), or other potential methods (such as designation of Core Conservation Areas) should be used to ensure protection for areas of sufficient size and connectivity for recovery. Designations should provide specific protections for the species including avoidance measures, developing adequate buffers, limiting surface disturbing activities, guidance for compensatory mitigation, and protecting habitat connectivity for activities that may impact the species. These administrative protections will be undertaken in cooperation with the BLM and USFS.

3.2 Incorporate plant protection into federal agency planning documents. Best management practices should be developed and maintained for activities that may occur regularly or repeatedly across the landscape. Examples include but are not limited to fire and fuels management prescriptions, recreational activities, invasive plant management, livestock grazing, and route/trail development. Protections such as avoidance measures, no surface occupancy (NSO), buffers, surface disturbance limits,

7 protection of pollinator habitat, and population connectivity should be considered in planning documents as means to promote Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery.

3.3 Work with the New Mexico State Land Office to protect cactus populations on their land. USFWS should maintain a dialogue with the New Mexico State Land Office to develop and implement a long-term management plan for the conservation of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Management strategies and regulations on state lands should be as consistent as possible with those on adjacent federal lands in order to provide seamless protection for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations.

3.4 To the extent possible, protect plant populations on state and non-federal lands. There are a few known Kuenzler hedgehog cactus sites on private lands. Land protection tools such as land exchanges, easements or acquisition, and cooperative or voluntary agreements could be used to establish plant conservation as an established land use objective for these sites. Accomplishment of this activity will rely on voluntary cooperative efforts of non-governmental landholders.

3.5 Strive to avoid loss of occupied habitat and plant damage due to land development/disturbance activities, including construction projects, energy development, and mining. Long-term conservation of occupied and potentially occupied habitat requires maintaining land in a natural state that will support the ecological requirements of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus over the long term.

3.5.1 Evaluate federal energy and mineral leases in occupied or potential habitat to determine potential impact on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations or sites, and inform prospective lessees of expected conservation measures associated with those leases. Lease sales should take into consideration the potential impact to Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, and in areas of occupied or potential habitat, the USFWS should be consulted before the sale moves forward. If leases are sold in suitable or occupied habitat, appropriate restrictions to protect the species should be included in leasing conditions and stipulations. Adequate conservation measures should be incorporated into future leases (e.g., NSO, deferring of lease parcels, including adequate lease notices or stipulations) in any area where Kuenzler hedgehog cactus occurs.

3.5.1.1 Federal agencies should implement at minimum 200 m (656 ft.) avoidance buffers, surface disturbance limits, or compensatory mitigation.

3.5.1.2 Implement dust abatement measures on all roads associated with development and all construction projects in occupied habitat.

3.5.1.3 Avoid or adequately minimize fragmentation of sites within populations.

8 3.5.1.4 Develop species-specific reclamation and restoration guidelines and require these activities as part of the permitting process in suitable habitat for the species and its pollinators.

3.5.2 Minimize the effects of road and/or highway projects near occupied habitat. A consistent protocol should be developed to minimize the impacts of maintenance of existing roads and highways. This protocol should apply to the creation of new roads, highway rights of way, pullouts, etc. in the future. Speed limits to decrease dust effects should be considered for all unpaved roads adjacent to occupied habitat.

3.5.2.1 Road maintenance protocols should include evaluating whether work is planned in occupied or suitable Kuenzler hedgehog cactus habitat, and potential impacts to individual plants and habitats. Direct impacts to individuals should be avoided, while considering potential damage to occupied or suitable habitat that could negatively affect species recovery.

3.5.2.2 If a conflict exists, develop and implement conservation measures. Conservation measures for minimizing the effects of roadwork include but are not limited to surveys, delineating population boundaries near work areas, fencing off work areas, dust/silt abatement, and training crews in the identification of the species and measures to minimize impacts in work area.

3.6 Minimize recreational disturbance of known populations and their habitat to meet recovery objectives. Human recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV-related activities can lead to degradation of the landscape by increasing erosion, changing hydrology and vegetation patterns, compacting soils, and/or inadvertently trampling plants. Managing agencies should work together to implement a Habitat Management Plan (HMP) and recovery activities in a consistent manner where habitat and populations cross land ownership boundaries.

3.6.1 Locate trails and campsites away from occupied sites. Human activities and travel across the landscape can be guided by the establishment of designated routes and trails. In federally managed areas, established routes and trails, designated or otherwise, should be controlled or eliminated in areas of occupied habitat. Placement of new trails should be based on an evaluation of the need for and use of a proposed route in relation to the recovery of the species. To the extent possible, any new routes or trails should be established to redirect human activities outside of occupied habitat. Routes and trails should reduce direct human interface with individual plants and be sensitive to areas of existing potential habitat.

9 3.6.1.1 BLM and the USFS should identify and evaluate impacts from recreational use areas that overlap or are within 200 m (656 ft.) of plant occurrences.

3.6.1.2 BLM and the USFS should develop and implement a plan to, when possible, relocate recreational use areas and facilities that are within 200 m (656 ft.) of occupied habitat.

3.6.1.3 When possible, all new recreation trails and facilities should be located at least 200 m (656 ft.) from occupied habitat.

3.6.1.4 Planned development in suitable habitat should be minimized, and unavoidable impacts fully mitigated.

3.6.2 Enforce existing regulations preventing unauthorized land uses. Historic adverse land uses include illegal dumping, dispersed camping, off-highway vehicle use, and target shooting, and these activities continue to occur at several sites where they are unauthorized. Protection of cactus habitat will require increased attention from law enforcement regarding the recovery needs of the species. Agencies should coordinate regulations to protect populations.

3.6.2.1 Ensure coordination between law enforcement and biologists when unauthorized activities resulting in harm to plants or habitat are documented.

3.6.2.2 Develop an education and compliance program with user groups. Create a field guide pamphlet that could be used for educational purposes and training.

3.7 Minimize livestock grazing disturbance of known populations and their habitat to meet recovery objectives. Nearly all Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations are on federal lands within areas of active grazing allotments. Occupied habitat within these allotments should be surveyed, and the relationship of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus distribution to livestock use patterns determined. Effective grazing management may include fence construction, water trough placement, rest-rotation grazing, and revisions of allotment plans, grazing schedules, and stocking levels to maintain Kuenzler hedgehog cactus habitat. Coordination of monitoring on grazing or trampling impacts should be developed and implemented range-wide in occupied sites within grazing allotments. Monitoring should be conducted on a regular basis with appropriate disturbance level triggers that would initiate a change in grazing management practices to protect the species. Conservation easements with private landowners can also be considered.

3.7.1 Where possible, locate livestock watering areas and movement trails away from populations and sites to avoid trampling. Heavy damage and disturbance to plants occurs when livestock are trailed through a population of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, or when proximity to a water source results in

10 constant use of livestock in an occupied area. Encourage the use of water sources away from occupied sites to reduce impacts to Kuenzler hedgehog cactus without requiring other changes to grazing on the allotment. Designated trails should be routed to avoid trampling of individuals, at a distance that is determined to be site-appropriate. Where possible, move or establish supplements and water sources 200 m (656 ft.) away from occupied habitat.

3.7.2 Continually identify sites and populations impacted by livestock grazing and rank and prioritize them by impact. Some populations or sites receive greater pressure from grazing than others. Site rankings will serve to focus monitoring and management efforts where they can provide the greatest benefit.

3.7.3 Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to reduce grazing impacts on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, with specific measures to address grazing impacts at populations and sites experiencing high grazing or trampling impacts. This strategy should consider the best available data regarding site-specific population-level impacts from livestock grazing, and be responsive to changes in grazing use over time.

3.7.3.1 Implement grazing use modifications where necessary to reduce impacts, such as modified stocking rates, rest periods, shorter authorized grazing periods, pasture rotations, or changes to seasonal grazing authorization as necessary to protect populations or sites. Sites and populations impacted by livestock grazing and trampling should be carefully monitored, and impacts to Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recorded to facilitate necessary livestock grazing regime changes. These data should be evaluated carefully to determine grazing use changes that might be necessary for conservation and recovery. Changes to livestock grazing regime should occur to reduce impacts to the species when they are determined to be detrimental to the population as a whole, and when other abatement measures are not successful or feasible.

3.7.3.2 Protect specific sites from livestock grazing with fencing or other physical barriers, and maintain these protective structures. Where adverse effects from livestock grazing activities cannot be effectively abated by changes in grazing authorizations on an allotment, physical barriers to protect individual cacti and sites should be used. These barriers could prevent entry of livestock into occupied areas, or encourage livestock to deviate from habitual routes that would increase the likelihood of trampling or disturbing individuals.

3.8 Implement measures to identify and reduce the impact of climate stressors on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Projected changes in climate include increased

11 temperatures, changes in seasonal timing of precipitation, increased temperature fluctuations, and prolonged droughts. These changes can impact plant species both directly (changes in phenology, reproductive success, winter or drought stress, increased fire frequency and intensity, levels etc.) or indirectly (introduction of new predators and invasive species, pollinator behavior alteration, availability of pollinators while flowering, changes in herbivory, susceptibility to insects, etc.). Efforts should be made to determine what impact climate change is having on the species, which populations and sites are most at risk, and management actions that may mitigate impacts of climate change on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus.

3.9 Protect populations from theft through effective law enforcement and by keeping site locations confidential when feasible. Illegal collection is an ongoing concern at several well-known populations, and could easily become a concern at more remote or unknown populations if their locations are made public.

3.9.1 Determine ways for managing agencies to share population and location information without public dissemination of precise location data. Shared data are essential for effective monitoring and management of the species, but steps should be taken to ensure that location data are not widely released, as this would increase the risk of theft to populations that thus far have remained unexposed.

3.10 Protect plant associations/ecosystems and pollinators associated with Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Habitat protection includes maintenance of functional ecosystems, with effective pollination, seed dispersal, germination, and maintenance of natural processes. Protection of vegetation communities and ecosystems that support Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations should be evaluated and prioritized. Evaluation of needs should include, but not be limited to, impacts related to landscape fragmentation and loss of occupied lands to development; nonnative invasive plant species; incompatible historic uses, and effects from domestic animals or other herbivores. This evaluation should occur for all extant populations, and be extended to any additional discovered populations.

3.10.1 Identify supporting species and associations that are important to the continued health of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Pollinators of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, plant species that support pollinators, and vegetation communities positively associated with this species should be identified and evaluated for their roles in supporting Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations.

3.10.2 Include community-level considerations when developing protected areas. This species and communities identified as important to Kuenzler hedgehog cactus should be included when planning and implementing protections for populations, to ensure the long-term health and survival of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus.

3.10.3 Incorporate protective measures such as buffers and surface disturbance limits in maintaining undisturbed areas. Ensure the protected areas are not

12 negatively impacted by adjacent disturbances or high levels of fragmentation that would decrease their effectiveness in protecting Kuenzler hedgehog cactus.

3.10.4 Avoid or reduce anthropogenic disturbance in and around known occupied areas. In all populations, limit pressure from recreation and livestock grazing through management actions to move such activities away from the known populations.

3.10.5 Identify and protect suitable non-occupied habitat adjacent to existing populations. Maintaining suitable habits that are currently unoccupied is vital if the species is to recover. The availability of unoccupied habitat provides the cactus with room to expand their range and increase populations if currently occupied areas become unsuitable. These areas, particularly those adjacent to the existing populations, should be identified and protected (e.g., through federal land management mechanisms, conservation easements, acquisitions) to support Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery.

3.11 Protect the seedbanks of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. The existence of a robust seedbank for rare plant species provides much needed protection against the loss of the species through population declines or stochastic events.

3.11.1 Protect the in situ (onsite) seedbank of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. Many cacti, including Kuenzler hedgehog cactus, have very limited seed dispersal zones (USFWS 1985). It is estimated that the majority of seeds are dispersed within a few meters of the parent plant. Seeds represent future offspring while preserving genetic diversity of past generations. Actions to reduce seed loss require protection from ground disturbance, e.g., soil compaction, erosion, and loss of natural soil biotic conditions. Habitat protection actions will reduce or abate loss and damage to seeds contained in the soil. Onsite seed conservation also will require the establishment of best management practices to ensure the protection of natural soil conditions and seeds.

3.11.2 Protect seeds ex situ (offsite). Seed storage, although by no means meant to replace conservation of wild populations in their natural habitat, can increase the survival prospects of imperiled plant species by preventing unique genotypes from disappearing altogether. Seed storage can effectively preserve and maintain viable seeds in long-term storage, thereby reducing the possibility of extinction and contributing to recovery.

3.11.3 Develop seed collection and permitting guidelines. A protocol for seed collection that will minimize effects to Kuenzler hedgehog cactus is needed. The number of seeds collected and the collection interval should be determined in conjunction with the most current standards and models used by such entities as the national Center for Plant Conservation. Standards should be determined in advance of collection activities, and seed collection permits should be assessed for need and duplication. At a minimum, permit holders

13 should provide documentation of activities, record number of plants present at collection site and those collected from, and the number of seeds removed per plant.

3.11.4 Collect and store seeds representing the genetic variability of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. The rarity of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus makes this species highly vulnerable to stochastic environmental and human-caused events. As a protection against permanent loss of genetic material, seeds representing the geographical, morphological, and genetic diversity of Kuenzler hedgehog cactus should be regularly collected and conserved in at least one Center for Plant Conservation approved facility. The stored seed could be used for efforts to establish new populations. Periodic testing will be necessary to estimate the rate of viability loss during seed storage. This estimate will help establish the optimal strategies for seed collection and storage.

***The threat of private or commercial collection is ameliorated by surveying and monitoring (identifying the extent or degree of the threat) and working with nurseries and partners to make Kuenzler cactus available for consumer purchase.

4.0 Continue communication by encouraging and creating dialog regarding Kuenzler hedgehog cactus between managing agencies, landowners, developers, and the public in order to raise awareness and aid recovery. (Recovery Criteria 1-3 and listing factor B)

4.1 Promote effective communications with partners and stakeholders regarding the species’ recovery needs and progress. Successful recovery requires the engagement of key parties through personal contacts, effective working relationships, and ongoing dialogues with recovery partners and stakeholders. Communications should focus on roles that various governmental and non-governmental groups play in implementing recovery actions and facilitating recovery progress. The USFWS should exhibit a willingness to enter into open discussions about the potential effects of various recovery actions on stakeholders in order to develop implementation strategies that are realistic and can be publicly supported.

4.2 Maintain an active dialogue with federal, state, and municipal agencies and private interests regarding Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery issues. It is imperative that all planning and management agencies influencing land use decisions in Kuenzler hedgehog cactus habitat be kept apprised of recovery needs and opportunities. In addition to equipping decision-makers with relevant information, recovery partners should become involved with agency and community initiatives involving recreation, economic planning and development, and use of environmental resources. The aim of this activity should be to foster development plans, regulatory mechanisms, and other initiatives that can meet socio-economic needs while advancing Kuenzler hedgehog cactus recovery.

***The threats addressed by action (5.0) and activities (5.1-5.4) are livestock grazing, wildfire, drought from climate adaptation. These threats will need to be made know to partners, and how they are addressed will be important for the recovery of the species.

14 5.0 Coordinate and work together with stakeholders to advance recovery. (Recovery Criteria 1-3 and listing factor A)

5.1 Provide oversight and support for implementation of recovery activities. To ensure that the recovery process moves as efficiently and effectively as possible toward recovery objectives, a coordinated approach to implementing individual activities is essential. This will involve close communications among managers and stakeholders, early recognition of short-term needs and potential obstacles, and identification of all possible funding opportunities. The USFWS should provide continued coordination of recovery implementation activities, and work with other federal and state agencies and private organizations to obtain funding for recovery. New means of funding and support should be developed with the assistance of the states, counties, and cities, as well private land developers and organizations.

5.2 Establish a technical working group to regularly review the status of the species and track the effectiveness of recovery activities. A technical working group consisting of the USFWS, BLM, USFS, New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, New Mexico State Land Office, and others knowledgeable about the species will be formed. This team will have annual reviews of recovery accomplishments and progress toward meeting recovery objectives, and will assess research and monitoring activities essential to ensuring successful implementation of the recovery program. Standards for monitoring effectiveness and making needed adjustments should be developed by the group at the outset, and applied in a consistent manner as the recovery process moves forward. The group should issue an annual report outlining progress and any significant setbacks in the recovery programs. The group should also ensure that tracking results are documented in our recovery implementation database. This will lead to creation of the HMP, which will include long-term monitoring to aid in recovery.

5.3 Revise the Species Status Assessment or Recovery Implementation Strategy when indicated by new information and recovery progress. The SSA and RIS should remain current, and if significant new information is available or changes in the direction of recovery implementation are needed, the SSA and RIS should be revised.

5.4 Support recovery by providing personnel and fiscal resources in annual budgets to implement recovery activities. This includes providing adequate annual funding to implement recovery activities. It also includes the resources for a team consisting of representatives from managing agencies and the USFWS to plan and coordinate protection, monitoring, conservation, and research needed to achieve recovery.

6.0 Develop and implement a habitat management plan for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus conservation. (Delisting Criterion 1-3 and listing factors A, B, and E)

6.1 Implement measures from HMP to mitigate future threats of proposed actions, once ESA protection is no longer warranted. The HMP will continue to address all five listing factors: 1) the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of habitat or range, 2) overutilization for commercial, recreation,

15 scientific, or educational purposes, 3) disease or predation, 4) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms, and 5) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Thresholds of acceptable declines may be discussed during the HMP process that would trigger management decisions. The HMP will help reduce the risk of destruction or modification of habitat. This plan will elevate species consideration in decision-making, and avoid or minimize future threats. Threats such as wildfire and livestock grazing will be addressed through the HMP. Each major land management agency should be a party to the HMP. The HMP will be range-wide, but will have site-specific measures that can be implemented as appropriate on lands within each agency’s jurisdiction. The HMP should be incorporated into agency land management plans. By incorporation into agency management plans, adequate protection is ensured such that Kuenzler hedgehog cactus will persist post-delisting.

7.0 Implement a USFWS-approved post-delisting monitoring plan. (Delisting Criterion 1-3 and listing factor E)

7.1 Continue monitoring of Kuenzler hedgehog cacti locations. A post-delisting monitoring plan is necessary to ensure the ongoing conservation of the species and the continuing effectiveness of management actions. This activity ameliorates the threats of small population size and low density.

16 4. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE

The following Implementation Schedule outlines activities and estimated costs and timeframes for the recovery program over the next 5 years. The plan’s overall 30-year time frame is comprised of a 25-year period of management and monitoring necessary for species recovery, plus a 5-year post-delisting monitoring plan. We considered recovery progress from previously implemented conservation efforts that have taken place for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus since the species was listed in 1979, and recognize that the schedule here may need to be updated as additional recovery activities are accomplished. This schedule indicates activity priorities, activity numbers, activity descriptions, duration of activities, and estimated costs. Parties with authority, responsibility, or expressed interest in implementing a specific recovery activity are identified; however, this plan neither obligates nor implies a requirement for the identified party to implement the activity(s) or secure funding for implementing the activity(s). At their own discretion, participating entities may use this information to inform their planning and budgeting processes for promoting coordinated efforts for species recovery. Activities representing items that would be achieved through existing allocated time, staff, and processes are listed with no additional cost added. Section 7(a)(1) of the ESA, as amended, directs all federal agencies to utilize their authorities in furtherance of the purposes of the ESA by carrying out programs for the conservation of endangered species and threatened species.

Key to Implementation Schedule Priorities (column 1)

PRIORITY 1: An activity that must be taken to prevent extinction or to prevent the species from declining irreversibly in the foreseeable future.

PRIORITY 2: An activity that must be taken to prevent a significant decline in species population/habitat quality or some other significant negative impact short of extinction.

PRIORITY 3: All other activities necessary to provide for recovery of the species.

Key to Responsible Agencies (column 6)

BLM = Bureau of Land Management NGO = Non-governmental organizations such as academic or conservation organizations LNF = U.S. Department of Agriculture-Forest Service, Lincoln National Forest Private = Private landowners/managers SLO = New Mexico State Land Office NHNM = Natural Heritage New Mexico NMEMNRD = New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department NMDOT = New Mexico Department of Transportation USFWS = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior Region 7

Priority 1 activities: $215,000 Priority 2 activities: $485,000 Priority 3 activities: $382,000 Total Estimate: $1,102,000

17 5. LITERATURE CITED

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1985. Recovery plan for the Kuenzler hedgehog cactus. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Albuquerque, New Mexico. https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery_plan/850328a.pdf, accessed June 12, 2018.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2017. Species status assessment report for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus Echinocereus fendleri Englemann var. kuenzleri (Castetter, Pierce and Schwerin) L. Benson. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Region, Albuquerque, New Mexico. https://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/Documents/R2ES/SSA_KuenzlerHedgehogCactus_ 20171010.pdf, accessed June 12, 2018.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2018. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; Reclassifying Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri from endangered to threatened. Final Rule. Federal Register Vol 83:92, 21928-21936.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2020. Draft Recovery Plan for the Kuenzler Hedgehog Cactus. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

18 Priority Activity Activity Activity Responsible Lead Agency Total FY FY FY FY FY Comments Number Number Description Duration Parties Costs 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 (Years) (1,000's) 1 1.1 Locate and 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Costs of locating conserve BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, populations covered additional SLO, SLO, in 2.2. This activity extant NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, corresponds to populations NHNM NHNM recovery criteria 1-3. 2 1.2.1 Refine suitable 10 USFWS, USFWS, ------Habitat model is in habitat model BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, progress. This NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, activity corresponds NHNM, NHNM, to recovery criteria NGO NGO 1-3. Duration: 10 years or until all suitable habitat surveyed. 2 1.2.2 Delineate 10 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 80 8 8 8 8 8 The portion of these appropriate BLM, LNF, USFWS costs related to new potential NMEMNRD, searches also applies habitat areas NHNM, to 2.1 below. This and conduct NGO activity corresponds surveys on to recovery criteria federal lands 1-3. Duration: 10 years or until all suitable habitat surveyed. 1 1.2.3 Maintain a 30 USFWS, NMNH, ------NHNM already database for BLM, LNF, USFWS maintains a database. survey efforts, NMEMNRD, All agencies should including NHNM, share with them and negative NGO keep updated. This results activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3.

19 1 1.3.1 Scientifically 30 USFWS, USFWS, 50 50 - - - - $50k initially to determine BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, conduct monitoring appropriate SLO, SLO, and do the extensive disturbance NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD research required to thresholds for Private scientifically each individual determine the threat and use disturbance them to threshold for each determine if threat; then abatement “maintenance” level action needs to costs for monitoring be taken and assessment, data analysis and report writing. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 - 3. 1 1.3.2 Address threats 30 USFWS, USFWS, 10 - - - - - Average of to each BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, $10K/year for population SLO, SLO, threats abatement with a “top- NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD but may vary greatly down” Private depending on results approach, of monitoring. treating the Likely majority of threat causing threats abatement the highest costs will be amounts of clustered once good documented monitoring data is disturbance as accumulated and the immediate analyzed. This priority for activity corresponds abatement to recovery criteria 1 measures -3.

20 1 1.4.1 Implement 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 100 20 20 20 20 20 $20K for first five standardized BLM, LNF, USFWS years is for monitoring on NGO developing specific federal lands demographic and trend monitoring methods and establishing plots. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 1 1.4.2 Create a 30 USFWS, NMNH, 30 1 1 1 1 1 Can be combined database for BLM, LNF, USFWS with 2.2 and long-term NHNM, maintained by collection and NGO NHNM. This evaluation of activity corresponds monitoring to recovery criteria data 1-3. 2 2.1 Establish a set 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Does not include of need-based BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, costs of research, research NGO NGO just process of priorities identifying research aimed at needs. This activity abating or corresponds to minimizing recovery criteria 1 & threats and 3. Duration: Periodic increasing over 30 years. population health and numbers 2 2.2 Analyze 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Annual analysis of available data BLM, LNF BLM, LNF monitoring data. and identify This activity data needed to corresponds to evaluate recovery criteria 1 & population 3. 21 trends

2 2.3.1 Pollinator 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 15 5 5 5 - - Costs are dependent research BLM, LNF, USFWS on scope of research NGO attempted. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 2 2.3.2 Habitat 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 15 5 5 5 - - Costs are dependent substrates and BLM, LNF, USFWS on scope of research soil conditions NGO attempted. This research activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 2 2.3.3 Genetic 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 15 5 5 5 - - Costs are dependent variation and BLM, LNF, USFWS on scope of research reproductive NGO attempted. This biology activities research corresponds to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 3 2.3.4 Herbivory, and 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 15 5 5 5 - - Costs are dependent disease BLM, LNF, USFWS on scope of research research NGO attempted. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 2 2.3.5 Modeling 30 USFWS, NMNH, ------Costs are dependent BLM, LNF, USFWS on scope of research NGO attempted. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 22 & 3.

2 2.3.6 Restoration 30 USFWS, USFWS, 15 5 5 5 - - Costs are dependent and BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, on scope of research propagation NGO NGO attempted. This research activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 2 2.3.7 Investigate 10 BLM, BLM, 50 5 5 5 5 5 Includes staff time to wild cactus USFWS, USFWS, work on developing subpopulation LNF LNF documents and response to monitoring. This wildfire or activity corresponds prescribed fire to recovery criteria 1 & 3. 3 2.3.8 Assess 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 15 5 5 5 - - Monitoring costs. response to BLM, LNF, USFWS This activity livestock NGO corresponds to management recovery criteria 1 & changes 3. 1 3.1 Protect plant 5 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 25 5 5 5 5 5 Includes staff time to populations on BLM, FS USFWS work on developing federal lands agreements and/or through formal land designations. agreements This activity and/or land corresponds to designations recovery criteria 1-3. 1 3.2 Incorporate 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Includes staff time to plant BLM, LNF USFWS work on developing protection into documents. This federal agency activity corresponds planning to recovery criteria 23 documents 1-3.

2 3.3 Work with the 30 USFWS, SLO, ------Staff time to work New Mexico BLM, LNF, NMEMNRD with state agencies. State Land SLO, This activity Office to NMEMNRD corresponds to protect cactus recovery criteria 1-3. populations on their land 3 3.4 Strive to 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Staff time to work protect plant BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, with private partners. populations on SLO, SLO, This activity private lands NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, corresponds to Private, NGO recovery criteria 1-3. NGO 3 3.5.1 Evaluate 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Staff time to work federal energy BLM, LNF, USFWS with private partners. and mineral SLO, This activity leases in NMEMNRD, corresponds to occupied or Private, recovery criteria 1-3. potential NGO habitat that are nominated to determine potential impact on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus populations or sites, and include 24 conservation information in lease sale process

3 3.5.1.1 Adequate 10 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Cost is staff time for conservation BLM, LNF, USFWS meetings with measures SLO, partners and draft should be NMEMNRD, planning documents. incorporated Private, Minimal cost after to into future NGO refine and leases implement. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.5.1.2 BLM should 10 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Cost is staff time for implement at BLM, LNF, USFWS meetings with minimum 200 SLO, partners and draft m (656 ft) NMEMNRD planning documents avoidance that incorporate buffers, surface these measures. disturbance Minimal cost limits, and thereafter to refine compensatory and implement. This mitigation in activity corresponds areas where no to recovery criteria surface 1-3. occupancy is not possible

25 3 3.5.1.3 Implement 30 USFWS, USFWS, 30 1 1 1 1 1 Cost should be low dust abatement BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, but recurring measures on all SLO, SLO, whenever work is roads NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, being done. This associated with NMDOT NMDOT activity corresponds development to recovery criteria and all 1-3. construction projects in occupied habitat 2 3.5.1.4 Avoid or 30 USFWS, USFWS, 10 6 1 1 1 1 Main cost is staff adequately BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time for meetings minimize SLO, SLO, with partners and fragmentation NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, draft planning of sites within NMDOT NMDOT documents that populations incorporate these measures. Minimal cost thereafter. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.5.1.5 BLM and LNF 10 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 10 6 1 1 1 1 Main cost is staff should develop BLM, LNF, USFWS time for meetings species- SLO, with partners and specific NMEMNRD, draft planning reclamation NMDOT documents that and restoration incorporate these guidelines, and measures. Minimal incorporate cost thereafter to into the refine and permitting implement. This process in activity corresponds suitable habitat to recovery criteria for the species 1-3. 26 and its pollinators

2 3.5.2.1 Road 10 USFWS, USFWS, 10 6 1 1 1 1 Main cost is staff maintenance BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time for meetings protocols SLO, SLO, with partners and should include NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, draft planning evaluating if NMDOT NMDOT documents that work is incorporate these planned in measures. Minimal occupied or cost thereafter to suitable habitat refine and and potential implement. This impacts to both activity corresponds individual to recovery criteria plants and 1-3. habitat 2 3.5.2.2 If a conflict 30 USFWS, USFWS, 5 5 - - - - Periodic as needed if with a road or BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, conflicts arise. highway SLO, SLO, Assume $5K project exists, NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD, approximately every develop and NMDOT NMDOT 5 years. implement conservation measures 2 3.6.1.1 BLM, and 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Cost up front for LNF should BLM, LNF, USFWS evaluating current identify and SLO, areas and then evaluate NMEMNRD, sporadically in impacts from NMDOT future as new recreational projects are use areas that proposed and need to 27 overlap or are be evaluated. This within 200 m activity corresponds (656 ft) of to recovery criteria plant 1-3. occurrences 2 3.6.1.2 BLM, and 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 10 10 - - - - Cost up front for LNF should BLM, LNF USFWS developing plan in develop and future and relocating implement a existing sites. plan to, when Minimal cost possible, thereafter. This relocate activity corresponds recreational to recovery criteria use areas and 1-3. facilities that are within 200 m (656 ft) of occupied habitat 2 3.6.1.3 When possible, 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Cost included in all new BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, previous activities. If recreation SLO SLO plans are in place trails and and projects are facilities evaluated, cost for should be new projects should located at least be negligible. This 200 m (656 ft) activity corresponds from occupied to recovery criteria habitat 1-3. 2 3.6.1.4 Planned 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Some cost included development in BLM, LNF BLM, LNF in previous suitable habitat activities. Mitigation should be cost of unavoidable minimized and projects would be 28 unavoidable sporadic. This impacts fully activity corresponds mitigated to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.6.2 Provide 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 60 2 2 2 2 2 Partially covered by appropriate BLM, LNF USFWS activity 1.6.3.1 but levels of law additional funds enforcement at should be provided the correct to cover high use times and times at popular sites places to (holidays, events, protect the etc.). This activity species from corresponds to recreational recovery criteria 1-3. impacts 3 3.6.2.1 Ensure law 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 30 1 1 1 1 1 Added some enforcement BLM, LNF USFWS provision for and biologist incidents of unusual coordination vandalism or occurs when damage. Average unauthorized $1K per year. This activities that activity corresponds result in harm to recovery criteria to plants or 1-3. habitat are documented 3 3.6.2.2 Develop 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 35 6 1 1 1 1 Program education and BLM, LNF USFWS development costs compliance will be mostly up program with front, minimal costs user groups thereafter to update materials or staff time for presentations. This 29 activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3.

3 3.7.1 In so far as is 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Requires initial time possible, locate BLM, LNF, USFWS to make changes, livestock trails SLO, then intermittent and watering NMEMNRD, costs as issues arise. areas away Private This activity from corresponds to populations recovery criteria 1-3. and sites to avoid trampling 3 3.7.2 Continually 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Includes duties of a identify sites BLM, LNF, USFWS range and SLO, conservationist, populations NMEMNRD, technicians, and that could be Private projects costs. enhanced Requires regular through monitoring of range improved conditions in habitat. grazing This activity management, corresponds to and rank and recovery criteria 1-3. prioritize them by impact 3 3.7.3.1 Developing a 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Staff time for comprehensive BLM, LNF, USFWS meetings and upfront strategy to SLO, costs for developing avoid adverse NMEMNRD, and implementing grazing Private such a impacts on comprehensive plan. 30 Kuenzler This activity hedgehog corresponds to cactus recovery criteria 1-3.

3 3.7.3.2 Protect specific 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 30 10 1 1 1 4 Includes cost of sites from BLM, LNF, USFWS fencing plus staff livestock SLO, time to implement grazing with NMEMNRD, and maintain. fencing or Private Assume some cost other physical each year plus barriers and additional for repairs maintain these approximately every protections five years. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.8 Implement 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Assume some cost measures to BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, each year. This identify and SLO, SLO, activity corresponds reduce the NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD to recovery criteria landscape-level Private 1-3. climate impacts on Kuenzler hedgehog cactus 3 3.9.1 Determine 1 All All agencies 5 5 - - - - Staff time for ways in which meetings to managing brainstorm and agencies can implement share information sharing. population and Negligible cost location thereafter. This information as activity corresponds 31 needed without to recovery criteria risking that 1-3. information becoming public 3 3.10.1 Identify 5 USFWS, USFWS, 10 10 - - - - Cost of research and supporting BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, staff time to develop species and SLO, SLO, recommendations. communities NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD This activity important to Private corresponds to the continued recovery criteria 1-3. health of the cactus 2 3.10.2 Include 5 USFWS, USFWS, ------Includes cost of staff supporting BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time to develop species SLO, SLO, agreements. This considerations NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD activity corresponds when Private to recovery criteria identifying 1-3. special management areas for Kuenzler hedgehog cactus 2 3.10.3 Incorporate 5 USFWS, USFWS, 50 10 10 10 10 10 Includes cost of staff protective BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time to develop measures such SLO, SLO, agreements. Once as buffers and NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD management surface Private prescriptions are in disturbance place, additional cost limits in is minimal and maintaining covered by undisturbed enforcement. This areas of activity corresponds 32 Kuenzler to recovery criteria hedgehog 1-3. cactus habitat

2 3.10.4 Avoid or 5 USFWS, USFWS, 50 10 10 10 10 10 Includes cost of staff reduce BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time to develop anthropogenic SLO, SLO, agreements. Once disturbance in NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD management and around Private prescriptions are in known place, additional cost occupied areas is minimal and covered by enforcement. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.10.5 Identify and 5 USFWS, USFWS, 50 10 10 10 10 10 Includes cost of staff protect suitable BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, time to develop non-occupied SLO, SLO, agreements. Once habitat NMEMNRD NMEMNRD management adjacent to prescriptions are in existing place, additional cost populations is minimal and covered by enforcement. Measures should be implemented in the first 5 years. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3.

33 1 3.11.1 Protect the in 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Costs covered under situ (onsite) BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, other activities that seedbank of SLO, SLO, protect populations the species NMEMNRD, NMEMNRD and habitat. This Private activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 2 3.11.2 Protect seeds 30 USFWS, USFWS, 10 2 2 2 2 2 Ex situ conservation ex situ (offsite) BLM, LNF BLM, LNF costs. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 3 3.11.3 Develop seed 1 USFWS, BLM, LNF, 2 2 - - - - Staff time to develop collection and BLM, LNF USFWS guidelines in first permitting year. Cost to guidelines implement guidelines negligible once in place. This activity corresponds to recovery criteria 1-3. 3 3.11.4 Collect and 30 USFWS, BLM, LNF, ------Costs included in store seeds BLM, LNF, USFWS activity 3.11.2. This representing NGO activity corresponds the genetic to recovery criteria variability of 1-3. the species 3 4.1 Promote 30 USFWS, USFWS, 60 2 2 2 2 2 Ongoing. This effective BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, activity corresponds communication NGO NGO to recovery criteria s with partners 1-3. and stakeholders regarding the species 34 3 4.2 Maintain an 30 All All agencies 60 2 2 2 2 2 Ongoing This active dialogue activity corresponds with federal, to recovery criteria state, and 1-3. municipal agencies and private interests about recovery issues 3 5.1 Provide 30 USFWS, USFWS, 60 2 2 2 2 2 Ongoing. This oversight and BLM, LNF BLM, LNF activity corresponds support for to recovery criteria implementatio 1-3. n of recovery activities 2 5.2 Establish a 30 USFWS, USFWS, 30 1 1 1 1 1 To attend working technical BLM, LNF BLM, LNF group meetings as working group needed each year, to regularly review documents, review the etc. This activity status of the corresponds to species and recovery criteria 1-3. track the effectiveness of recovery activities 3 5.3 Revise the 30 USFWS, USFWS, 30 - - - - 5 $5K every 5 years. recovery BLM, LNF BLM, LNF This activity program when corresponds to indicated by recovery criteria 1-3. new Duration: Periodic information over 30 years. and recovery progress

35 3 5.4 Stakeholders 30 USFWS, USFWS, ------Costs included in should support BLM, LNF, BLM, LNF, other activities in recovery by SLO, SLO, this table. This providing NMEMNRD NMEMNRD activity corresponds personnel and to recovery criteria fiscal resources 1-3. yearly to implement recovery activities 3 6.1 Implement 3 All USFWS 10 This should be done measures from when species is close HMP to to delisting. This mitigate future activity corresponds threats of to recovery criteria proposed 1-3. actions, once ESA protection is no longer warranted 3 7.1 Continue 5 All USFWS 10 This should be done monitoring of before the species is Kuenzler delisted. This hedgehog cacti activity corresponds locations to recovery criteria 1-3.

36