Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Part II

Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native Species That Are Candidates for Listing as Endangered or Threatened; Annual Notice of Findings on Resubmitted Petitions; Annual Description of Progress on Listing Actions; Proposed Rule

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR September 30, 2007, through September Species-specific information and 30, 2008. materials we receive will be available Fish and Wildlife Service We request additional status for public inspection by appointment, information that may be available for during normal business hours, at the 50 CFR Part 17 the 251 candidate species identified in appropriate Regional Office listed below [FWS-R9-ES-2008-0115; MO-9221050083 – this CNOR. in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. General B2] DATES: We will accept information on information we receive will be available this Candidate Notice of Review at any at the Branch of Candidate Endangered and Threatened Wildlife time. Conservation, Arlington, VA (see and Plants; Review of Native Species ADDRESSES: This notice is available on address above). That Are Candidates for Listing as the Internet at http:// Candidate Notice of Review Endangered or Threatened; Annual www.regulations.gov, and http:// Notice of Findings on Resubmitted endangered.fws.gov/candidates/ Background Petitions; Annual Description of index.html. Species assessment forms The Endangered Species Act of 1973, Progress on Listing Actions with information and references on a as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, particular candidate species’ range, (Act), requires that we identify species Interior. status, habitat needs, and listing priority of wildlife and plants that are assignment are available for review at ACTION: Notice of review. endangered or threatened, based on the the appropriate Regional Office listed best available scientific and commercial SUMMARY: In this Candidate Notice of below in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION or information. As defined in section 3 of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and at the Branch of Candidate the Act, an endangered species is any Wildlife Service (Service), present an Conservation, Arlington, VA (see species which is in danger of extinction updated list of plant and animal species address below), or on our Internet throughout all or a significant portion of native to the United States that we website (http://endangered.fws.gov/ its range, and a threatened species is regard as candidates for or have candidates/index.html). Please submit any species which is likely to become proposed for addition to the Lists of any new information materials, an endangered species within the Endangered and Threatened Wildlife comments, or questions of a general foreseeable future throughout all or a and Plants under the Endangered nature on this notice to the Arlington, significant portion of its range. Through Species Act of 1973, as amended. VA, address listed below. Please submit the Federal rulemaking process, we add Identification of candidate species can any new information, materials, species that meet these definitions to assist environmental planning efforts by comments, or questions pertaining to a the List of Endangered and Threatened providing advance notice of potential particular species to the address of the Wildlife at 50 CFR 17.11 or the List of listings, allowing landowners and Endangered Species Coordinator in the Endangered and Threatened Plants at 50 resource managers to alleviate threats appropriate Regional Office listed in CFR 17.12. As part of this program, we and thereby possibly remove the need to SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. maintain a list of species that we regard list species as endangered or threatened. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The as candidates for listing. A candidate Even if we subsequently list a candidate Endangered Species Coordinator(s) in species is one for which we have on file species, the early notice provided here the appropriate Regional Office(s) or sufficient information on biological could result in more options for species Chief, Branch of Candidate vulnerability and threats to support a management and recovery by prompting Conservation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife proposal to list as endangered or candidate conservation measures to Service, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Room threatened, but for which preparation alleviate threats to the species. 420, Arlington, VA 22203 (telephone and publication of a proposal is The CNOR summarizes the status and 703-358-2105; facsimile 703-358-1735). precluded by higher-priority listing threats that we evaluated in order to Persons who use a telecommunications actions. A species may be indentified by determine that species qualify as device for the deaf (TDD) may call the us as a candidate for listing based on an candidates and to assign a listing Federal Information Relay Service evaluation of its status that we priority number (LPN) to each species, (FIRS) at 800-877-8339. conducted on our own initiative, or as or to remove species from candidate SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: a result of making a finding on a status. Additional material that we petition to list a species that listing is relied on is available in the Species Information Solicited warranted but precluded by other higher Assessment and Listing Priority We request additional status priority listing action (see the Petition Assignment Forms (species assessment information that may be available for Findings section, below). forms, previously called candidate any of the candidate species identified We maintain this list of candidates for forms) for each candidate species. in this CNOR. We will consider this a variety of reasons: to notify the public Overall, this CNOR recognizes 1 new information in preparing listing that these species are facing threats to candidate, changes the LPN for 11 documents and future revisions to the their survival; to provide advance candidates, and removes 2 species from notice of review, as it will help us in knowledge of potential listings that candidate status. Combined with other monitoring changes in the status of could affect decisions of environmental decisions for individual species that candidate species and in management planners and developers; to provide were published separately from this for conserving them. We also request information that may stimulate and CNOR in the past year, the current information on additional species to guide conservation efforts that will number of species that are candidates consider including as candidates as we remove or reduce threats to these for listing is 251. prepare future updates of this notice. species and possibly make listing This document also includes our You may submit your information unnecessary; to solicit input from findings on resubmitted petitions and concerning this notice in general or for interested parties to help us identify describes our progress in revising the any of the species included in this those candidate species that may not Lists of Endangered and Threatened notice by one of the methods listed in require protection under the Act or Wildlife and Plants during the period the ADDRESSES section. additional species that may require the

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Act’s protections; and to solicit and whether the effects are likely to be of the LPN; that information is necessary information for setting permanent. summarized in this CNOR. priorities for preparing listing proposals. As used in our priority ranking This revised notice supersedes all We strongly encourage collaborative system, immediacy of threat is previous animal, plant, and combined conservation efforts for candidate categorized as either ‘‘imminent’’ or candidate notices of review. species and offer technical and financial ‘‘nonimminent’’ and is not a measure of assistance to facilitate such efforts. For how quickly the species is likely to Summary of This CNOR additional information regarding such become extinct if the threats are not Since publication of the CNOR on assistance, please contact the addressed; rather, immediacy is based December 6, 2007 (72 FR 69033), we appropriate Regional Office listed in on when the threats will begin. If a reviewed the available information on SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION or visit our threat is currently occurring or likely to candidate species to ensure that a Internet website, http:// occur in the very near future, we proposed listing is justified for each endangered.fws.gov/candidates/ classify the threat as imminent. species, and reevaluated the relative index.html. Determining the immediacy of threats helps ensure that species facing actual, LPN assigned to each species. We also Previous Notices of Review identifiable threats are given priority for evaluated the need to emergency-list We have been publishing candidate listing proposals over those for which any of these species, particularly species notices of review (CNOR) since 1975. threats are only potential or species that with high priorities (i.e., species with The most recent CNOR (prior to this are intrinsically vulnerable to certain LPNs of 1, 2, or 3). This review and CNOR) was published on December 6, types of threats but are not known to be reevaluation ensures that we focus 2007 (72 FR 69033). CNORs published presently facing such threats. conservation efforts on those species at since 1994 are available on our Internet Our priority ranking system has three greatest risk first. website, http://www.fws.gov/ categories for taxonomic status: species In addition to reviewing candidate endangered/candidates/index.html. For that are the sole members of a genus; species since publication of the last copies of CNORs published prior to full species (in a genus that has more CNOR, we have worked on numerous 1994, please contact the Branch of than one species); and subspecies, findings in response to petitions to list Candidate Conservation (see ADDRESSES distinct population segments of species, and on proposed and final section above). vertebrate species, and species for determinations for rules to list species On September 21, 1983, we published which listing is appropriate in a under the Act. Some of these findings guidance for assigning an LPN for each significant portion of their range rather and determinations have been candidate species (48 FR 43098). Using than their entire range. completed and published in the Federal this guidance, we assign each candidate The result of the ranking system is Register, while work on others is still an LPN of 1 to 12, depending on the that we assign each candidate a listing under way. See the discussions of magnitude of threats, immediacy of priority number of 1 to 12. For example, Preclusion and Expeditious Progress, threats, and taxonomic status; the lower if the threat(s) is of high magnitude, below, for details. the LPN, the higher the listing priority with immediacy classified as imminent, Based on our review of the best (that is, a species with an LPN of 1 the listable entity is assigned an LPN of available scientific and commercial would have the highest listing priority). 1, 2, or 3 based on its taxonomic status information, with this CNOR we Such a priority ranking guidance system (e.g., a species that is the only member identify 1 new candidate species (see is required under section 4(h)(3) of the of a genus would be assigned to the LPN New Candidates , below), change the Act (15 U.S.C. 1533(h)(3)). As explained 1 category, a full species to LPN 2, and below, in using this system we first a subspecies, DPS, or a species for LPN for 11 candidates (see Listing categorize based on the magnitude of which listing is appropriate in a Priority Changes in Candidates, below) the threat(s), then by the immediacy of significant portion of its range would be and determine that listing proposals are the threat(s), and finally by taxonomic assigned to LPN 3). In summary, the not warranted for 2 species and thus status. LPN ranking system provides a basis for remove them from candidate status (see Under this priority ranking system, making decisions about the relative Candidate Removals, below). Combined magnitude of threat can be either ‘‘high’’ priority for preparing a proposed rule to with the other decisions published or ‘‘moderate to low.’’ This criterion list a given species. No matter which separately from this CNOR for helps ensure that the species facing the LPN we assign to a species, each species individual species that previously were greatest threats to their continued included in this notice as a candidate is candidates, a total of 251 species existence receive the highest listing one for which we have sufficient (including 109 plant and 142 animal priority. It is important to recognize that information to prepare a proposed rule species) are now candidates awaiting all candidate species face threats to their to list it because it is in danger of preparation of rules proposing their continued existence, so the magnitude extinction or likely to become listing. These 251 species, along with of threats is in relative terms. When endangered within the foreseeable the 50 species currently proposed for evaluating the magnitude of the threat(s) future throughout all or a significant listing, are included in Table 1. facing the species, we consider portion of its range. Table 2 lists the changes from the information such as: the number of For more information on the process previous CNOR, and includes three populations and/or extent of range of and standards used in assigning LPNs, species identified in the previous CNOR the species affected by the threat(s); the a copy of the guidance is available on as either proposed for listing or biological significance of the affected our website at: http://www.fws.gov/ classified as candidates that are no population(s), taking into consideration endangered/policy/index.html. For longer in those categories. This includes the life history characteristics of the more information on the LPN assigned one species for which we published a species and its current abundance and to a particular species, the species final rule to list, plus the two species distribution; whether the threats affect assessment for each candidate contains that we have determined do not warrant the species in only a portion of its range, the LPN chart and a rationale for the preparation of a rule to propose listing and if so the likelihood of persistence of determination of the magnitude and and therefore have been removed from the species in the unaffected portions; imminence of threat(s) and assignment candidate status in this CNOR.

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New Candidates but precluded for a species in a Listing Priority Changes in Candidates Below we present a brief summary of significant portion of its range (rather We reviewed the LPN for all one new plant candidate, Sphaeralcea than throughout its entire range), we candidate species and are changing the gierischii (Gierisch mallow), which we assign it to the same LPN category as a numbers for the following species are recognizing in this CNOR. Complete subspecies or DPS (e.g. LPN 3). discussed below. Some of the changes information, including references, can Reptiles reflect actual changes in either the be found in the species assessment magnitude or imminence of the threats. form. You may obtain a copy of this Northern Mexican gartersnake In one case, the LPN change reflects a form from the Regional Office having (Thamnophis eques megalops) – We change in the taxonomy of the species. the lead for the species (Region 2), or previously announced candidate status For some species, the LPN change from our Internet website (http:// for this species in a separate warranted reflects efforts to ensure national endangered.fws.gov/candidates/ but precluded 12–month petition consistency as well as closer adherence index.html). For this species, we find finding published on November 25, to the 1983 guidelines in assigning these that we have on file sufficient 2008 (73 FR 71787). numbers, rather than an actual change information on biological vulnerability Amphibians in the nature of the threats. and threats to support a proposal to list Mammals as endangered or threatened, but that Jollyville Plateau salamander (Eurycea preparation and publication of a tonkawae) – We previously announced Gunnison’s prairie dog (Cynomys proposal is precluded by higher-priority candidate status for this species in a gunnisoni) (montane population) – See listing actions (i.e., it met our definition separate warranted but precluded 12– above summary under ‘‘New of a candidate species). We also note month petition finding published on Candidates’’. December 13, 2007 (72 FR 71039). below that four other species, Birds Gunnison’s prairie dog (specifically in Fish the portion of its range in montane Red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) – The portions of central and south central Rio Grande cutthroat trout following summary is based on Colorado and north central New (Oncorhynchus clarki virginalis) – We information containted in our files and Mexico), Rio Grande cutthroat trout, previously announced candidate status information provided by petitioners. northern Mexican garter snake, and for this subspecies in a separate Four petitions to emergency list the red Jollyville Plateau salamander, were warranted but precluded 12–month knot have been received: one on August identified as candidates earlier this year petition finding published on May 14, 9, 2004, two others on August 5, 2005, as a result of separate petition findings 2008 (73 FR 27899). and the latest on February 27, 2008. The rufa subspecies is one of six recognized published in the Federal Register. Flowering Plants subspecies of red knot and one of three Mammals Sphaeralcea gierischii (Gierisch subspecies occurring in North America Gunnison’s prairie dog (Cynomys mallow) – The following information is (hereafter all mention of red knot in this gunnisoni) – In a separate warranted but based on information contained in our CNOR refers strictly to the rufa precluded 12–month petition finding files, including site visits by species subspecies). This subspecies makes one published on February 5, 2008 (73 FR experts. There are nine known of the longest distance migrations 6660), we previously announced populations of this species on a known in the animal kingdom, as it candidate status for the Gunnison’s combined total of approximately 59.5 travels between breeding areas in the prairie dog in the montane portion of its acres (ac) (24.12 hectares (ha)) in central Canadian Arctic and wintering range, located in central and south- Arizona and Utah. Seven populations areas that are primarily in southern central Colorado and north-central New are found on approximately 55 ac (22.3 South America along the coast of Chile Mexico. As described in that notice, we ha) managed by the Bureau of Land and Argentina. They migrate along the determined that the montane portion of Management in Arizona. One Atlantic coast of the United States, the range, which comprises population occurs on approximately 2 where they may be found from Maine to approximately 40 percent of the total ac (0.81 ha) on land managed by the Florida. range of the species, is a significant Arizona State Land Department. One The Delaware Bay area (in Delaware portion of the range where listing the population occurs on approximately 2.5 and New Jersey) is the largest known species is warranted. In that notice we ac (1.01 ha) in Utah. The primary threat spring migration stopover area, with far assigned the population an LPN of 2. In to the species in Arizona is ongoing fewer migrants congregating elsewhere this CNOR, we are making a technical gypsum mining and associated along the Atlantic coast. The correction to the LPN, changing it to a activities. The primary threat to the concentration in the Delaware Bay area 3. This correction makes the LPN for species in Utah is potential impacts occurs from the middle of May to early Gunnison’s prairie dog consistent with from off-road vehicle use. The threats June, corresponding to the spawning the clear intent of our 1983 LPN are high in magnitude, since survival of season of horseshoe crabs. The knots guidance (48 FR 43098). Under our LPN the species is threatened throughout its feed on horseshoe crab eggs, rebuilding guidance, among listable entities facing entire range in Arizona by gypsum energy reserves needed to complete threats of the same magnitude and mining, with the two largest migrations to the Arctic and arrive on imminence, a species that is the only populations in active mining operations. the breeding grounds in good condition. member of a genus has highest priority Loss of those two populations would In the past, horseshoe crab eggs at (e.g. LPN 1), a full species (in a genus significantly reduce the total number of Delaware Bay were so numerous that a with more than one species) has the individuals throughout the range, knot could eat enough in two to three next highest priority (e.g. LPN 2), and a threatening the long-term viability of weeks to double its weight. subspecies or DPS are in the following this species. The threats are imminent, Surveys at wintering areas and at priority category (e.g. LPN 3). To be since they are ongoing in Arizona. Delaware Bay during spring migration consistent with this approach, when we Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 2 to indicate a substantial decline in the red make a finding that listing is warranted this species. knot in recent years. At the Delaware

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Bay area, peak counts between 1982 and Consequently Delaware developed Overall, we conclude that the threats, in 1998 were as high as 95,360 knots. regulations allowing for a male-only particular the modification of habitat Counts may vary considerably between horseshoe crab harvest, consistent with through harvesting of horseshoe crabs, years. Some of the fluctuations can be restrictions adopted by ASMFC. The severe enough that it puts the viability attributed to predator-prey cycles in the reductions in commercial harvest since of the knot at substantial risk and is breeding grounds, and counts show that 1999 are substantial: 726,660 horseshoe therefore of a high magnitude. The knots rebound from such reductions. crab landings for bait were reported in threats are currently occurring, and Research shows that since 1998, a high 1999 in Delaware and New Jersey, therefore imminent because of proportion of red knots leaving the compared to 173,177 in 2004 and a continuing suppressed horseshoe-crab- Delaware Bay failed to achieve preliminary 2007 report of 76,663 crabs egg forage conditions for red knot threshold departure masses needed to landed for bait in Delaware and no within the Delaware Bay stopover. To fly to breeding grounds and survive an horseshoe crabs landed in New Jersey as help ensure consistency in the initial few days of snow cover, and this a result of the State-imposed harvest application of our listing priority corresponded to reduced annual moratorium. However, we do not know process, we changed the LPN from a 6 survival rates. Recently, peak counts at whether horseshoe crab populations to a 3 for this subspecies because threats the Delaware Bay area have been lower will rebuild or how long a lag time there are imminent. than in the past and do not show a may be in increased availability of eggs, Lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus rebound. The peaks were 13,315 in as the species needs 8-10 years to reach pallidicinctus) – The following 2004; 15,345 in 2005; 13,455 in 2006; sexual maturity, and other key summary is based on information and 12,375 in 2007. Counts in recent information for estimating population contained in our files and the petition years at the principal wintering areas in response is lacking. A survey in received on October 5, 1995. Additional South America also are substantially Delaware Bay showed horseshoe crab information can be found in the 12– lower than in the past and do not show spawning activity was stable or slightly month finding published on June 7, a rebound. declining from 1999 to 2004. Updated 1998 (63 FR 31400). This species occurs in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, The primary factor threatening the red spawning information following implementation of additional harvest Oklahoma, and Texas. Biologists knot is destruction and modification of restrictions shows that female horseshoe estimate that the occupied range has its habitat, particularly the reduction in crab spawning activity in Delaware Bay declined by 92 percent since the 1800s. key food resources resulting from has been stable for the overall period of The most serious threat to the lesser reductions in horseshoe crabs, which 1999 to 2007 and male horseshoe crab prairie-chicken is the present and are harvested primarily for use as bait spawning increased during that period. threatened destruction, modification, and secondarily to support a biomedical Thus, despite additional harvest and curtailment of its habitat and range. industry. Commercial harvest increased regulations, numbers of spawning This includes loss of habitat from substantially in the 1990s. Since 1999, females have not yet shown an increase. conversion of native rangelands to a series of timing restrictions and The numbers of red knots at key introduced forages and cultivation; substantially lower harvest quotas have wintering areas in South America conversion of suitable restored habitat been adopted by the Atlantic States remained relatively steady from 2005 to in the Conservation Reserve Program Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC), 2007, giving optimism that the declining (CRP) to cropland; cumulative habitat as well as New Jersey and Delaware. In trend may have ceased or slowed. In degradation caused by severe grazing; May 2006, the ASMFC adopted 2008, however, counts of red knots and energy development, including restrictions effective from October 1, within principal wintering areas wind, oil, and gas development. The 2006, to September 30, 2008, including showed an all-time low of only 14,800 magnitude of threats to the species from a prohibition on harvest and landing of red knots. Counts of red knots within wind energy development and horseshoe crabs in New Jersey and the principal wintering areas in Chile conversion of CRP lands to croplands Delaware from January 1 through June 7, and Argentina declined by nearly 75 has increased recently, both in terms of harvest of males only from June 8 percent from 1985 to 2007 and declined ongoing activity and potential activity through December 31, and harvest by an additional 15 percent in the past expected in the next few years. limited to no more than 100,000 year (2007 to 2008). Thus, in recent Additional threats are woody plant horseshoe crabs per state per year. The years the number of knots in these invasion of open prairies due to fire ASMFC also adopted other restrictions survey areas has been much lower than suppression, herbicide use (including applicable to Maryland and Virginia. in the past and the trend in the resumption of herbicide use in shinnery New Jersey established regulations in abundance is not improving despite a oak habitat), and habitat fragmentation 2006 which superseded ASMFC nearly tenfold reduction in horseshoe caused by structural and transportation restrictions; resulting in a moratorium crab landings since the late 1990s. developments. Many of these threats on all horseshoe crab harvest in New Other identified threat factors include may exacerbate the normal effects of Jersey from May 15, 2006 through June habitat destruction due to beach erosion periodic drought on lesser- prairie- 7, 2008. In March 2008, New Jersey and various shoreline protection and chicken populations. In many cases, the passed legislation imposing an open- stabilization projects that are affecting remaining suitable habitat has become ended moratorium on horseshoe crab areas used by migrating knots for fragmented by the spatial arrangement harvest or landing within the State until foraging, the inadequacy of existing of these various activities. The such time as the red knot has fully regulatory mechanisms, human increasing level of habitat fragmentation recovered. In February 2007, Delaware disturbance, and competition with other means that (1) some of the remaining imposed a 2–year moratorium, effective species for limited food resources. Also, habitat patches may become smaller January 1, 2007, on harvest of horseshoe the concentration of red knots in the than necessary to meet the requirements crabs within Delaware lands or waters. Delaware Bay areas and at a relatively of individuals and populations; (2) In June 2007, following litigation by two small number of wintering areas makes necessary habitat heterogeneity may be businesses involved in the harvesting the species vulnerable to potential large- lost to areas of homogeneous habitat and sale of horseshoe crabs, Delaware’s scale events in those areas such as oil structure; (3) areas between habitat moratorium was overturned. spills or severe weather in those areas. patches may harbor higher levels of

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predators or brood parasites; and (4) the that even if they were followed with ongoing threat. Habitat destruction and probability of recolonization of habitat every new development, these modification has occurred and that becomes unoccupied decreases as ordinances do not span the entire continues to occur as a result of the distance between suitable habitat watershed for the Edwards Aquifer. The dewatering, impoundment, patches expands. Based on our most TCEQ has developed voluntary water channelization, and channel changes recent assessment, we find that ongoing quality protection measures for caused by alteration of riparian threats to the lesser prairie-chicken have development in the Edwards Aquifer vegetation and watershed degradation increased in terms of the amount of region of Texas; however, it is unknown from mining, grazing, roads, water habitat involved and that the overall if these measures will be implemented pollution, urban and suburban magnitude of threats to the lesser throughout a large portion of the development, groundwater pumping, prairie-chicken throughout its range is watershed or if they will be effective in and other human actions. Existing high because the threats put the maintaining or improving water quality. regulatory mechanisms do not appear to viability of the lesser prairie chicken at Development occurring outside the be adequate for addressing the impact of substantial risk. The threats are ongoing TCEQ’s jurisdiction can have negative nonnative fish and also have not and thus, imminent. Consequently, we consequences on water quality and thus removed or eliminated the threats that changed the LPN from an 8 to a 2 for affect the species. Water-quality impacts continue to be posed in relation to this species. threaten the continued existence of the habitat destruction or modification. The Georgetown salamander by altering Amphibians fragmented nature and rarity of existing physical aquatic habitats and the food populations makes them vulnerable to Georgetown salamander (Eurycea sources of the salamander. The threats other natural or manmade factors, such naufragia) – The following summary is are imminent because urbanization is as drought and wildfire. based on information contained in our ongoing, and continues to expand over The Arizona Game and Fish files. No new information was provided the Northern Segment of the Edwards Department has created the Arizona in the petition received on May 11, Aquifer. However, Williamson County Statewide Conservation Agreement for 2004. The Georgetown salamander is and the Williamson County Roundtail Chub (G. robusta), Headwater known from spring outlets along five Conservation Fund are currently Chub, Flannelmouth Sucker tributaries to the San Gabriel River and actively working to protect habitat and (Catostomus latipinnis), Little Colorado one cave in the City of Georgetown, acquire land within the contributing River Sucker (Catostomus spp.), Williamson County, Texas. The watershed for the Georgetown Georgetown salamander has a very salamander. Also, they are planning to Bluehead Sucker (C. discobolus), and limited distribution and depends on a conduct monitoring and data-collecting Zuni Bluehead Sucker (C. discobolus constant supply of clean water from the activities in an effort that is expected to yarrowi), which is now final. The New Northern Segment of the Edwards lead to the development of a Mexico Department of Game and Fish Aquifer for its survival. conservation strategy for this species. recently listed the headwater chub as Primary threats to this species are Although this species still meets our endangered and created a recovery plan degradation of water quality due to definition of a candidate, these for the species, Colorado River Basin expanding urbanization. Increased conservation actions reduce the Chubs (Roundtail Chub, Gila Chub (G. impervious cover by development magnitude of the threat to the intermedia), and Headwater Chub) increases the quantity and velocity of Georgetown salamander to a moderate Recovery Plan, which was approved by runoff that leads to erosion and greater level by reducing the amount of the New Mexico State Game pollution transport. Pollutants and development occurring in the portion of Commission on November 16, 2006. contaminants that enter the Edwards the watershed that affects the species. Both the Arizona Agreement and the Aquifer are discharged from spring Thus, we have changed the LPN from a New Mexico Recovery Plan recommend outlets in salamander habitat and have 2 to an 8 for this species. preservation and enhancement of extant serious morphological and physiological populations and restoration of historical effects to the species. The Texas Fishes headwater-chub populations. The Commission on Environmental Quality Headwater chub (Gila nigra) – The recovery and conservation actions (TCEQ) adopted the Edwards Rules in following summary is based on prescribed by Arizona and New Mexico 1995 and 1997, which require a number information contained in our files and plans, which we believe will reduce and of water-quality-protection measures for the 12–month finding on a petition to remove threats to this species, will new development occurring in the list the species, which was published require further discussions and recharge and contributing zones of the May 3, 2006 (71 FR 26007). The range authorizations before they can be Edwards Aquifer. New developments of the headwater chub has been reduced implemented, but several of the actions are still obligated to comply with by approximately 60 percent. Seventeen are being planned. Although threats are regulations that were applicable at the streams (125 miles (200 kilometers) of ongoing, new information indicates time when project applications for stream) are thought to be occupied out long-term persistence and stability of development were first filed. However, of 20 streams (312 miles (500 existing populations. Surveys Chapter 245 of the Texas Local kilometers) of stream) formerly conducted in 2006-2007 found a new Government Code permits occupied in the Gila River Basin in population and determined that the ‘‘grandfathering’’ of state regulations. Arizona and New Mexico. Recent Fossil Creek population is now stable- Grandfathering allows developments to surveys have documented one new secure. Currently 10 of the 17 extant be exempted from any new local or state population. All remaining populations populations are considered stable based requirements for water-quality controls are fragmented and isolated and on abundance and evidence of and impervious-cover limits if the threatened by a combination of factors. recruitment. Based on our assessment, developments were planned prior to the Headwater chub are threatened by threats (e.g., nonnative species, habitat implementation of such regulations. As introductions of nonnative fish that prey loss from land uses) remain imminent a result of the grandfathering law, very on them and/or compete with them for but are now of a moderate magnitude few developments have followed these food. These nonnative fish are difficult because the threat of nonnative species ordinances. In addition, it is significant to eliminate and, therefore, pose an and habitat destruction appear to be of

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a lower magnitude than previously to the Cumberland and Tennessee River hectare (2.45 acres). The primary threat thought because all populations are systems (Cumberlandian Region) in has been chemical contamination of the continuing to persist, and have persisted Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and groundwater. Significant actions are over approximately 15 years of surveys Virginia. It requires shoal habitats in under way to remediate this threat, on average, and some populations such free-flowing rivers to survive and including implementation of a as the upper Gila River are now successfully recruit new individuals Corrective Action Plan to characterize considered stable. Thus we changed the into its populations. and remediate groundwater LPN from a 2 to an 8 for this species. Habitat destruction and alteration contamination and implementation of a (e.g., impoundments, sedimentation, site management plan. Also, a Clams and pollutants) are the chief factors groundwater model and risk assessment Texas hornshell (Popenaias popei) – contributing to the decline of this is being developed. The CAP is being The following summary is based on species, which has been extirpated from implemented, and conservation information contained in our files and numerous regional streams and is no measures are currently being monitored information provided by the New longer found in Kentucky. The slabside for effectiveness. Because these efforts Mexico Department of Game and Fish pearlymussel was historically known have been under way for a sufficient and Texas Parks and Wildlife from at least 32 streams, but is currently period to reduce the threat from Department. No new information was restricted to no more than 10 isolated contamination, the magnitude of threats provided in the petition received on stream segments. Current status is reduced from moderate to low, and May 11, 2004. The Texas hornshell is a information for most of the 10 the threat is now nonimminent. freshwater mussel found in the Black populations deemed to be extant is Therefore, we have changed the listing River in New Mexico, and the Rio available from recent periodic sampling priority from an 8 to an 11 for this Grande and the Devils River in Texas. efforts (sometimes annually) and other species. Until March 2008, the only known field studies. Comprehensive surveys Elongate mud meadows springsnail extant populations were in New have taken place in the Middle and (Pyrgulopsis notidicola) – The following Mexico’s Black River and one locality in North Forks Holston River, Paint Rock summary is based on information the Rio Grande near Laredo, Texas. In River, and Duck River in the past contained in our files. Pyrgulopsis March 2008, two new localities were several years. Based on recent notidicola is endemic to Soldier confirmed in Texas – one in the Devils information, the overall population of Meadow, which is located at the River and one in the mainstem Rio the slabside pearlymussel is declining northern extreme of the western arm of Grande in the Rio Grande Wild and rangewide. Of the five streams in which the Black Rock Desert in the transition Scenic River segment downstream of the species remains in good numbers zone between the Basin and Range Big Bend National Park. (e.g., Clinch, North and Middle Forks Physiographic Province and the The primary threats to this species are Holston, Paint Rock, Duck Rivers), the Columbia Plateau Province, Humboldt habitat alterations such as stream bank Middle and upper North Fork Holston County, Nevada. The type locality, and channelization, impoundments, and Rivers have undergone drastic recent the only known location of the species, diversions for agriculture and flood declines, while the Clinch population occurs in a stretch of thermal (between control; contamination of water by oil has been in a longer-term decline. Most 45° and 32° Celsius, 113° and 90° and gas activity; alterations in the of the remaining five populations (e.g., Fahrenheit) aquatic habitat that is natural riverine hydrology; and Powell River, Big Moccasin Creek, approximately 600 m (1,968 ft) long and increased sedimentation from prolonged Hiwassee River, Elk River, Bear Creek) 2 m (6.7 ft) wide. Pyrgulopsis notidicola overgrazing and loss of native have doubtful viability, and several if occurs only in shallow, flowing water vegetation. Although riverine habitats not all of them may be on the verge of on gravel substrate. The species does throughout the species’ known occupied extirpation. not occur in deep water (i.e., range are under constant threat from The threats remain high in magnitude, impoundments) where water velocity is these ongoing or potential activities, since all populations of this species are low, gravel substrate is absent, and numerous conservation actions to severely affected in numerous ways sediment levels are high. benefit the species are underway in New (impoundments, sedimentation, small The species and its habitat are Mexico, including the completion of a population size, isolation of threatened by recreational use in the state recovery plan for the species and populations, gravel mining, municipal areas where it occurs, as well as by the the drafting of a Candidate Conservation pollutants, agricultural runoff, nutrient ongoing impacts of past water Agreement with Assurances, and are enrichment, and coal processing diversions and livestock grazing and beginning in Texas. We changed the pollution) which result in mortality current off-highway vehicle travel. LPN from a 2 to an 8 based on our and/or reduced reproductive output. Conservation measures implemented conclusion that these conservation Since the threats are ongoing, they are recently by the Bureau of Land actions have reduced the magnitude of imminent. Therefore, to help ensure Management include the installation of threats from high to moderate. This consistency in the application of our fencing to exclude livestock, wild change in the magnitude of threat is due listing priority process, we changed the horses, burros and other large mammals; to the discovery of previously unknown LPN from a 5 to a 2 because the threats closing of access roads to spring, locations where the species persists, as are imminent and high in magnitude. riparian, and wetland areas and the well as the implementation of recovery limiting of vehicles to designated routes; planning and conservation actions that Snails the establishment of a designated are underway in New Mexico, and are Fat-whorled pondsnail (Stagnicola campground away from the habitats of beginning in Texas. The threats are still bonnevillensis) – The fat-whorled sensitive species; the installation of occurring, and thus remain imminent. pondsnail, also known as the Bonneville educational signage; and increased staff Slabside pearlymussel (Lexingtonia pondsnail, occupies four spring pools presence, including law enforcement dolabelloides) – The following summary north of the Great Salt Lake in Box Elder and a volunteer site steward during the is based on information contained in County, Utah. The number of 6–month period of peak visitor use. our files. The slabside pearlymussel is a individuals is unknown, and the total These conservation measures have freshwater mussel (Unionidae) endemic known occupied habitat is less than 1 reduced the magnitude of threats to the

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species to moderate; all remaining known to harbor greater than 100 since this threat results in direct threats are nonimminent and involve individuals, and specific locations mortality to adult beetles, reduces long-term changes to the habitat for the could easily be lost by changes in available prey, and disturbs and species resulting from past impacts. vegetation composition or from the desiccates the microhabitat of the Therefore, we have changed the LPN threat of wildfire. The great distances larvae, and in tandem with drought, from 2 to 11. between the known locations for the continues to cause steady declines in species would not allow for dispersal of the tiger beetle population. The threats Insects the species between populations; thus, continue to be ongoing and are, Mardon skipper (Polites mardon) – loss of any population could lead to therefore, imminent. Therefore, we The following summary is based on extirpation of the species at any of these changed the LPN from an 8 to a 2. information contained in our files and locations. However, the discovery of Flowering plants the petition we received on December new populations and the wide 24, 2002. The Mardon skipper is a geographic range for the Mardon skipper Churchill Narrows buckwheat northwestern butterfly with a provides a buffer against threats that (Eriogonum diatomaceum) – The remarkably disjunct range. Currently could destroy all existing habitat following information is based on this species is known from four widely simultaneously or jeopardize the information contained in our files. separated regions: south Puget Sound continued existence of the species. Eriogonum diatomaceum is restricted to region, southern Washington Cascades, Since the threats are ongoing, they are chalky, diatomaceous outcrops between Siskiyou Mountains of southern Oregon, imminent. Therefore, to help ensure 1,311 and 1,390 meters (m) (4,300 and and coastal northwestern California/ consistency in the application of our 4,560 feet (ft)) elevation in the Churchill southern Oregon. The number of listing priority process, we changed the Narrows located in the Pine Nut documented locations for the species LPN to reflect the fact that the threats Mountains, Lyon County, Nevada. has increased from fewer than 10 in are imminent. At the same time, for the Field surveys during 2005 have 1997 to more than 100 rangewide in reasons described above, the threats are shown that the habitat of nearly all the 2008. New site locations have been now moderate in magnitude. Therefore, 15 known occurrences of E. documented in each year that targeted we changed the listing priority number diatomaceum is subject to exploration surveys have been conducted since from a 5 to an 8 for the Mardon skipper. and potential development of existing 1999. In the past 8 years, significant Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle mining claims. Observations in 2003 local populations have been located in (Cicindela albissima) – The following confirmed that mining activities have the Washington Cascades and in summary is based on information had direct and indirect impacts on E. Southern Oregon, with a few local sites contained in our files and the petition diatomaceum in the recent past. supporting populations of hundreds of received April 25, 1994. The Coral Pink Mineral development must continue to Mardon skippers. Sand Dunes tiger beetle occurs only at be considered a threat of high The Mardon skipper spends its entire the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, magnitude because all known life cycle in one location, often on the approximately 7 miles west of Kanab, populations of E. diatomaceum occur same grassland patch. The dispersal Kane County, in south-central Utah. It is within existing mining claims on a ability of Mardon skipper is restricted. restricted to a small part of the dune substrate with economic potential. Threats to the Mardon skipper include field, situated at an elevation of about However, because previous applications direct impacts to individuals and local 1,820 m (6,000 ft). to develop these industrial mineral populations by off-road vehicle use, The beetle’s habitat is being adversely deposits have been withdrawn, we no livestock grazing, and pesticide drift. affected by ongoing, recreational off- longer consider mining to pose an Habitat destruction or modification road vehicle use that is destroying and imminent threat to the species. Other through conifer encroachment, invasive degrading the beetle’s habitat, especially threats to the species from trampling nonnative plants, roadside maintenance, the interdunal swales used by the and soil disturbance by livestock and and grassland/meadow management larvae. The continued survival of the other land uses are likely to have activities such as prescribed burning beetle depends on the preservation of its localized impacts and to be cumulative and mowing are also threats. However, habitat. The two agencies that manage over time; we do not consider these these threats have been substantially the dunes field, the Utah Department of activities to pose an imminent threat to reduced due to protections provided by Parks and Recreation and the Bureau of the species. Nevertheless, all known State and Federal special status species Land Management, have restricted populations are small and current programs. The magnitude of the threats recreational off-road vehicle use in some regulatory mechanisms in place are is moderate because current regulatory areas, which reduces impacts. However, inadequate in protecting the species mechanisms associated with State and the protected areas may not be of throughout its range. Eriogonum Federal special status species programs sufficient size to enable the population diatomaceum is considered threatened afford a relatively high level of to increase in size, and off-road vehicle by the Nevada Native Plant Society and protection from additional habitat loss use continues outside of the protected was added to the Nevada State List of or destruction across most of the areas. Ongoing monitoring and research critically endangered and threatened species’ range. Threats are imminent has documented that conservation plants. Due to the nonimminent threats because all sites within the species’ measures have failed to lessen of high magnitude, we have changed the range currently have one or more population declines. The beetle’s LPN from a 2 to a 5 for this species. identified threats that are resulting in population is also vulnerable to over- direct impacts to individuals within the collecting by professional and hobby Candidate Removals populations, or a gradual loss or tiger beetle collectors. The taxon was As summarized below, we have degradation of the species’ habitats. previously recognized as a full species, evaluated the threats to the following Mardon skippers face a variety of threats resulting in a change in the listing two species and considered factors that, that may occur at any time at any of the priority from a 9 to an 8, based on individually and in combination, locations. Low numbers of individuals imminent threats of a low to moderate currently or potentially could pose a have been found at most of the known magnitude. The magnitude of the threat risk to these species and their habitat. locations. Only a few locations are from off-road vehicle use is now high, After a review of the best available

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scientific and commercial data, we Flowering Plants warranted throughout all or a significant conclude that listing these two species Indigofera trita subsp. scabra portion of its range. The species no under the Endangered Species Act is not (formerly Indigofera mucronata var. longer meets our definition of a warranted because the species are not keyensis) (Florida indigo or Asian candidate, and we have removed it from likely to become endangered species indigo) – The following summary is candidate status. within the foreseeable future throughout based on information contained in our Petition Findings all or a significant portion of their range. files. No new information was provided The Act provides two mechanisms for Therefore, for each of these species we in the petition we received on May 11, considering species for listing. One find that proposing a rule to list it is not 2004. In 2007 we became aware of new method allows the Secretary, on his warranted, and we no longer consider it information regarding this plant’s own initiative, to identify species for to be a candidate species for listing. We taxonomic status. We now believe the listing under the standards of section will continue to monitor the status of most appropriate name for Florida 4(a)(1). We implement this through the these species, and to accept additional indigo is I. trita subsp. scabra. The candidate program, discussed above. information and comments concerning current understanding is that this plant The second method for listing a species this finding. We will reconsider our is widespread, ranging widely from provides a mechanism for the public to determination for each species in the south Florida and the Caribbean to Asia petition us to add a species to the Lists. event that new information indicates and Africa. We have only general Under section 4(b)(3)(A), when we that the threats to the species are of a information on this plant’s status receive such a petition, we must considerably greater magnitude or outside of the United States. In Florida, determine within 90 days, to the imminence than identified through this plant occurs in coastal rock barrens, maximum extent practicable, whether assessments of information contained in ecotone rock barren areas, and scraped the petition presents substantial our files, as summarized here. areas mimicking rock barren habitat. information that listing may be Based upon available data, there are 12 warranted (a ‘‘90–day finding’’). If we Snails occurrences of Florida indigo on eight make a positive 90–day finding, we islands in the upper and middle Florida must promptly commence a status Ogden mountainsnail (formerly Keys, in Monroe County; half of the considered to be Oreohelix peripherica review of the species under section original occurrences in the Keys are 4(b)(3)(A); we must then make and wasatchensis) – The Ogden now extirpated, as are historic mountainsnail was previously thought publish one of three possible findings occurrences on mainland Florida in within 12 months of the receipt of the to be a subspecies occurring at a single Collier and Miami-Dade Counties. Most petition (a ‘‘12–month finding’’): site near the mouth of Ogden Canyon in occurrences in Florida are small; total 1. The petitioned action is not Weber County, Utah. The subspecies population size is probably close to warranted; was considered to be vulnerable to 3,000 individuals. In the United States, 2. The petitioned action is warranted extirpation from stochastic or human- Florida indigo is threatened by habitat (in which case we are required to caused events due to its restricted range, loss, even on public lands, as well as promptly publish a proposed regulation its proximity to an expanding habitat loss and degradation from exotic to implement the petitioned action; residential area, and impacts from plants on all sites. Shading by once we publish a proposed rule for a relatively heavy recreational use. Recent hardwoods is a problem at species, section 4(b)(5) and 4(b)(6) molecular phylogenetic studies have approximately half of the sites. Planned govern further procedures regardless of clarified that what was previously restoration activities, illegal dumping, whether we issued the proposal in classified as Oreohelix peripherica and trespass have also been identified as response to a petition); or wasatchensis is actually two distinct threats. Florida indigo is vulnerable to 3. The petitioned action is warranted clades (i.e., taxa descending from a natural disturbances, such as but (a) the immediate proposal of a common ancestor) rather than being a hurricanes, tropical storms, and storm regulation and final promulgation of separate subspecies: one clade is part of surges; however, these factors may also regulation implementing the petitioned a different species, O. strigosa, and the work to maintain coastal rock barren action is precluded by pending other is part of a different subspecies, O. habitat in the long-term. Sea level rise proposals, and (b) expeditious progress p. peripherica Because O. p. is considered a long-term threat that is being made to add qualified species wasatchensis is no longer recognized as will continue. to the lists of endangered or threatened a valid subspecies, it is not a listable Although threats remain in Florida, species. (We refer to this as a entity under the Act. Therefore, we find the Florida indigo is now considered to ‘‘warranted-but-precluded finding.’’) that listing O. p. wasatchensis is not be a taxon that is widely distributed. We Section 4(b)(3)(C) of the Act requires warranted, and we have removed it from are not aware of threats elsewhere in its that when we make a warranted-but- candidate status. considerable range; the species does not precluded finding on a petition, we are warrant listing throughout its entire to treat such a petition as one that is Both O. strigosa and O. p. peripherica range. We have analyzed whether the resubmitted on the date of such a are widespread and abundant. Our Florida population is a significant finding. Thus, we are required to assessment shows that threats to the portion of the range. Based on our publish new 12–month findings on clades of these taxa at the Ogden evaluation of this population’s low level these ‘‘resubmitted’’ petitions on an Canyon site are not affecting the overall of contribution toward the resiliency, annual basis. status of O. strigosa or O. p. peripherica redundancy, and representation of the On December 5, 1996, we made a final such that either taxon is likely to species as a whole, we conclude that the decision to redefine ‘‘candidate species’’ become in danger of extinction within Florida population of the Florida indigo to mean those species for which the the foreseeable future throughout all or is not a significant portion of the range. Service has on file sufficient a significant portion of its range. Based on findings and analysis in our information on biological vulnerability Consequently, we find that listing is not updated assessment, we conclude that and threat(s) to support issuance of a warranted for either O. strigosa or O. p. listing this species under the proposed rule to list, but for which peripherica. Endangered Species Act is not issuance of the proposed rule is

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precluded (61 FR 64481; December 6, authority under section 4(b)(7). We have critical habitat activities in justifying 1996). Therefore, the standard for been reviewing and will continue to our inability to list candidate species, making a species a candidate through review, at least annually, the status of requiring that we justify both our our own initiative is identical to the every candidate, whether or not we have preclusion findings and our standard for making a warranted-but- received a petition to list it. Thus, the demonstration of expeditious progress precluded 12–month petition finding on CNOR and accompanying species by reference to listing proceedings for a petition to list, and we add all assessment forms also constitute the unlisted species (California Native Plant petitioned species for which we have Service’s annual finding on the status of Society v. Norton, Civ. No. 03-1540 (JR) made a warranted-but-precluded 12– petitioned species pursuant to section (D.D.C.)). The court further found that month finding to the candidate list. 4(b)(3)(C)(i). we must adequately itemize priority This publication provides notice of On June 20, 2001, the United States listings, explain why certain species are substantial 90–day findings and the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit of high priority, and explain why warranted-but-precluded 12–month held that the 1999 CNOR (64 FR 57534; actions on these high-priority species findings pursuant to section 4(b)(3) for October 25, 1999) did not demonstrate preclude listing species of lower candidate species listed on Table 1 that that we fulfilled the second component priority. The court approved our we identified on our own initiative, and of the warranted-but-precluded 12– reliance on national rather than regional that subsequently have been the subject month petition findings for the Gila priorities and workload in establishing of a petition to list. Even though all chub and Chiracahua leopard frog preclusion and approved our basic candidate species identified through our (Center for Biological Diversity v. explanation that listing candidate own initiative already have received the Norton, 254 F.3d 833 (9th Cir. 2001)). species may be precluded by statutorily equivalent of substantial 90–day and The court found that the one-line mandated deadlines, court-ordered warranted-but-precluded 12–month designation in the table of candidates in actions, higher-priority listing activities, findings, we reviewed the status of the the 1999 CNOR, with no further and a limited budget. newly petitioned candidate species and explanation, did not satisfy section In this CNOR we continue to through this CNOR are publishing 4(b)(3)(B)(iii)’s requirement that the incorporate information that addresses specific section 4(b)(3) findings (i.e., Service publish a finding ‘‘together with the courts’ concerns. We include a substantial 90–day and warranted-but- a description and evaluation of the description of the reasons why the precluded 12–month findings) in reasons and data on which the finding listing of every petitioned candidate response to the petitions to list these is based.’’ The court suggested that this species is both warranted and precluded candidate species. We publish these one-line statement of candidate status at this time. We make our findings as part of the first CNOR also precluded meaningful judicial determinations of preclusion on a following receipt of the petition. review. nationwide basis to ensure that the Pursuant to section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the On June 21, 2004, the United States species most in need of listing will be Act, once a petition is filed regarding a District Court for Oregon agreed that we addressed first and also because we candidate species, we must make a 12– can use the CNOR as a vehicle for allocate our listing budget on a month petition finding in compliance making petition findings and that our nationwide basis (see below). Regional with section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act at least reasoning for why listing is precluded priorities can also be discerned from once a year, until we publish a proposal does not need to be based on an Table 1, which includes the lead region to list the species or make a final not- assessment at a regional level (as and the LPN for each species. Our warranted finding. We make these opposed to a national level) (Center for preclusion determinations are further annual findings for petitioned candidate Biological Diversity v. Norton Civ. No. based upon our budget for listing species through the CNOR. 03-1111-AA (D. Or.)). However, this activities for unlisted species, and we Section 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the Act court found that our discussion on why explain the priority system and why the requires us to ‘‘implement a system to listing the candidate species were work we have accomplished does monitor effectively the status of all precluded by other actions lacked preclude action on listing candidate species’’ for which we have made a specificity; in the list of species that species. warranted-but-precluded 12–month were the subject of listing actions that Pursuant to section 4(b)(3)(C)(ii) and finding, and to ‘‘make prompt use of the precluded us from proposing to list the Administrative Procedure Act (5 [emergency listing] authority [under candidate species, we did not state the U.S.C. 551 et seq.), any party with section 4(b)(7)] to prevent a significant specific action at issue for each species standing may challenge the merits of risk to the well being of any such in the list and we did not indicate any not-warranted or warranted-but- species.’’ The CNOR plays a crucial role which actions were court-ordered. precluded petition finding incorporated in the monitoring system that we have On June 22, 2004, in a similar case, in this CNOR. The analysis included implemented for all candidate species the United States District Court for the herein, together with the administrative by providing notice that we are actively Eastern District of California also record for the decision at issue seeking information regarding the status concluded that our determination of (particularly the supporting species of those species. We review all new preclusion may appropriately be based assessment form), will provide an information on candidate species as it on a national analysis (Center for adequate basis for a court to review the becomes available, prepare an annual Biological Diversity v. Norton No. CV S- petition finding. species assessment form that reflects 03-1758 GEB/DAD (E.D. Cal.)). This Nothing in this document or any of monitoring results and other new court also found that the Act’s our policies should be construed as in information, and identify any species imperative that listing decisions be any way modifying the Act’s for which emergency listing may be based solely on science applies only to requirement that we make a resubmitted appropriate. If we determine that the determination about whether listing 12–month petition finding for each emergency listing is appropriate for any is warranted, not the question of when petitioned candidate within 1 year of candidate, whether it was identified listing is precluded. the date of publication of this CNOR. If through our own initiative or through On March 24, 2005, the United States we fail to make any such finding on a the petition process, we will make District Court for the District of timely basis, whether through prompt use of the emergency listing Columbia held that we may not consider publication of a new CNOR or some

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other form of notice, any party with these particular candidates warrant available and conducting analyses used standing may seek judicial review. listing. More complete information, as the basis for our decisions; writing In this CNOR, we continue to address including references, is found in the and publishing documents; and the concerns of the courts by including species assessment forms. You may obtaining, reviewing, and evaluating specific information in our discussion obtain a copy of these forms from the public comments and peer review on preclusion (see below). In preparing Regional Office having the lead for the comments on proposed rules and this CNOR, we reviewed the current species, or from the Fish and Wildlife incorporating relevant information into status of, and threats to, the 174 Service’s Internet website: http:// final rules. The number of listing candidates and 5 listed species for endangered.fws.gov/. As described actions that we can undertake in a given which we have received a petition and above, under section 4 of the Act we year also is influenced by the for which we have found listing or may identify and propose species for complexity of those listing actions; that reclassification from threatened to listing based on the factors identified in is, more complex actions generally are endangered to be warranted but section 4(a)(1), and section 4 also more costly. For example, during the precluded. We find that the immediate provides a mechanism for the public to past several years, the cost (excluding issuance of a proposed rule and timely petition us to add a species to the lists publication costs) for preparing a 12– promulgation of a final rule for each of of species determined to be threatened month finding, without a proposed rule, these species has been, for the preceding species or endangered species under the has ranged from approximately $11,000 months, and continues to be, precluded Act. Below we describe the actions that for one species with a restricted range by higher-priority listing actions. continue to preclude the immediate that requires a relatively uncomplicated Additional information that is the basis proposal and final promulgation of a analysis to $305,000 for another species for this finding is found in the species regulation implementing each of the that is wide-ranging and requires a assessments and our administrative petitioned actions for which we have complex analysis. record for each species. made a warranted-but-precluded We cannot spend more than is Through this CNOR we are making finding, and we describe the appropriated for the Listing Program the first 90–day petition finding and 12– expeditious progress we are making to without violating the Anti-Deficiency month petition finding for Eriogonum add qualified species to the lists of Act (see 31 U.S.C. 1341(a)(1)(A)). In corymbosum var. nilesii (Las Vegas endangered or threatened species. addition, in FY 1998 and for each fiscal buckwheat) and the New Mexico year since then, Congress has placed a meadow jumping mouse (Zapus Preclusion and Expeditious Progress statutory cap on funds which may be hudsonius luteus). We added these Preclusion is a function of the listing expended for the Listing Program, equal species to the candidate list in the last priority of a species in relation to the to the amount expressly appropriated CNOR (published December 6, 2007) resources that are available and and subsequently received petitions for competing demands for those resources. for that purpose in that fiscal year. This listing. We have not published separate Thus, in any given fiscal year (FY), cap was designed to prevent funds substantial 90–day and warranted-but- multiple factors dictate whether it will appropriated for other functions under precluded 12–month petition findings, be possible to undertake work on a the Act (for example, recovery funds for but are making those findings in this proposed listing regulation or whether removing species from the Lists), or for CNOR. promulgation of such a proposal is other Service programs, from beingused Our review included updating the warranted but precluded by higher- for Listing Program actions (see House th status of, and threats to, petitioned priority listing actions. Report 105-163, 105 Congress, 1st candidate or listed species for which we The resources available for listing Session, July 1, 1997). published findings, pursuant to section actions are determined through the Recognizing that designation of 4(b)(3)(B), in the previous CNOR. We annual Congressional appropriations critical habitat for species already listed have incorporated new information we process. The appropriation for the would consume most of the overall gathered since the prior finding and, as Listing Program is available to support Listing Program appropriation, Congress a result of this review, we are making work involving the following listing also put a critical habitat subcap in continued warranted-but-precluded 12– actions: proposed and final listing rules; place in FY 2002, and has retained it month findings on the petitions for 90–day and 12–month findings on each subsequent year to ensure that these species. petitions to add species to the Lists of some funds are available for other work We have identified the candidate Endangered and Threatened Wildlife in the Listing Program: ‘‘The critical species for which we received petitions and Plants (Lists) or to change the status habitat designation subcap will ensure by the code ‘‘C*’’ in the category of a species from threatened to that some funding is available to column on the left side of Table 1. The endangered; annual determinations on address other listing activities’’ (House immediate publication of proposed prior warranted-but- precluded petition Report No. 107 - 103, 107th Congress, 1st rules to list these species was precluded findings as required under section Session, June 19, 2001). In FY 2002 and by our work on higher-priority listing 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Act; critical habitat each year until FY 2006, the Service has actions, listed below, during the period petition findings, proposed and final had to use virtually the entire critical from October 1, 2007, through rules designating critical habitat; and habitat subcap to address court- September 30, 2008. We will continue litigation-related, administrative, and mandated designations of critical to monitor the status of all candidate program management functions habitat, and consequently none of the species, including petitioned species, as (including preparing and allocating critical habitat subcap funds have been new information becomes available to budgets, responding to Congressional available for other listing activities. In determine if a change in status is and public inquiries, and conducting FY 2007, we were able to use some of warranted, including the need to public outreach regarding listing and the critical habitat subcap funds to fund emergency-list a species under section critical habitat). The work involved in proposed listing determinations for 4(b)(7) of the Act. preparing various listing documents can high-priority candidate species; In addition to identifying petitioned be extensive, and may include, but is however, in FY 2008 we were unable to candidate species in Table 1 below, we not limited to: gathering and assessing do this because of all of the critical also present brief summaries of why the best scientific and commercial data habitat subcap funds were needed to

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address our workload for designating agreements requiring that petition highest priority to receive funding to critical habitat. findings or listing determinations be work on a proposed listing Thus, through the listing cap, the completed by a specific date; section 4 determination. As we work on proposed critical habitat subcap, and the amount (of the Act) listing actions with absolute listing rules for these 40 candidates, we of funds needed to address court- statutory deadlines; essential litigation- are applying the ranking criteria to the mandated critical habitat designations, related, administrative, and listing next group of candidates with an LPN Congress and the courts have in effect program management functions; and of 2 and 3 to determine the next set of determined the amount of money high-priority listing actions. The highest priority candidate species. available for other listing activities. allocations for each specific listing To be more efficient in our listing Therefore, the funds in the listing cap, action are identified in the Service’s FY process, as we work on proposed rules other than those needed to address 2008 Allocation Table (part of our for these species in the next several court-mandated critical habitat for administrative record). years, we are preparing multi-species already listed species, represent the Our decision that a proposed rule to proposals when appropriate, and these resources we must take into list any of the petitioned candidate may include species with lower priority consideration when we make our species is warranted but precluded if they overlap geographically or have determinations of preclusion and includes consideration of its listing the same threats as a species with an expeditious progress. priority. In accordance with guidance LPN of 2. In addition, available staff Congress also recognized that the we published on September 21, 1983, resources are also a factor in availability of resources was the key we assign each candidate an LPN of 1 determining which high-priority species element in deciding whether, when to 12, depending on the magnitude of will receive funding. Finally, proposed making a 12–month petition finding, we threats (high vs. moderate to low), rules for reclassification of threatened would prepare and issue a listing immediacy of threats (imminent or species to endangered are lower proposal or instead make a warranted- nonimminent), and taxonomic status of priority, since as listed species, they are but-precluded finding for a given the species (in order of priority: already afforded the protection of the species. The Conference Report monotypic genus (a species that is the Act and implementing regulations. accompanying Pub. L. 97-304, which sole member of a genus); species; or part established the current statutory of a species (subspecies, distinct Thus, we continue to find that deadlines and the warranted-but- population segment, or significant proposals to list the petitioned precluded finding, states (in a portion of the range)). The lower the candidate species included in Table 1 discussion on 90–day petition findings listing priority number, the higher the are all warranted but precluded, except that by its own terms also covers 12– listing priority (that is, a species with an for the highest priority candidate month findings) that the deadlines were LPN of 1 would have the highest listing species which are listed in the tables ‘‘not intended to allow the Secretary to priority). In addition to being precluded below as having received funding in delay commencing the rulemaking by lack of available funds, work on FY2008 for listing activities. process for any reason other than that proposed rules for candidates with As explained above, a determination the existence of pending or imminent lower priority (i.e., those that have LPNs that listing is warranted but precluded proposals to list species subject to a of 4–12) is also precluded by the need must also demonstrate that expeditious greater degree of threat would make to issue proposed rules for higher- progress is being made to add and allocation of resources to such a petition priority candidate species facing high- remove qualified species to and from [that is, for a lower-ranking species] magnitude, imminent threats (i.e., LPNs the Lists of Endangered and Threatened unwise.’’ Taking into account the of 1–3). Wildlife and Plants. (Although we do information presented above, in FY In FY 2007, we had more than 120 not discuss it in detail here, we are also 2008, the outer parameter within which species with an LPN of 2. Therefore, we making expeditious progress in ‘‘expeditious progress’’ must be further ranked the candidate species removing species from the list under the measured is that amount of progress that with an LPN of 2 by using the following Recovery program, which is funded by could be achieved by spending extinction-risk type criteria: a separate line item in the budget of the $8,206,940, which was the amount International Union for the Endangered Species Program. As available in the Listing Program Conservation of Nature and Natural explained above in our description of appropriation that was not within the Resources (IUCN) Red list status/rank, the statutory cap on Listing Program critical habitat subcap (because all of Heritage rank (provided by funds, the Recovery Program funds and the funds within the subcap were NatureServe), Heritage threat rank actions supported by them cannot be needed in order to complete court- (provided by NatureServe), and species considered in determining expeditious mandated critical habitat actions). currently with fewer than 50 progress made in the Listing Program.) Our process is to make our individuals, or 4 or fewer populations. As with our ‘‘precluded’’ finding, determinations of preclusion on a Those species with the highest IUCN expeditious progress in adding qualified nationwide basis to ensure that the rank (critically endangered), the highest species to the Lists is a function of the species most in need of listing will be Heritage rank (G1), the highest Heritage resources available and the competing addressed first and also because we threat rank (substantial, imminent demands for those funds. Given that allocate our listing budget on a threats), and currently with fewer than limitation, we find that we made nationwide basis. The $8,206,940 was 50 individuals, or fewer than 4 expeditious progress in FY 2008 in the used to fund work in the following populations, comprised a list of Listing Program. This progress included categories: compliance with court orders approximately 40 candidate species. preparing and publishing the following and court-approved settlement These 40 candidate species have had the determinations:

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FY 2008 Completed Listing Actions

Publication Date Title Actions FR Pages

10/09/2007 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Black-Footed Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 72 FR 57278-57283 Albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) as Threatened or ing, Substantial Endangered

10/09/2007 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Giant Palouse Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 72 FR 57273-57276 Earthworm as Threatened or Endangered ing, Not substantial

10/23/2007 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Mountain Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 72 FR 59983-9989 Whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni) in the Big Lost ing, Not substantial River, ID, as Threatened or Endangered

10/23/2007 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Summer-Run Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 72 FR 59979-59983 Kokanee Population in Issaquah Creek, WA, as ing, Not substantial Threatened or Endangered

11/08/2007 Response to Court on Significant Portion of the Range, Response to Court 72 FR 63123-63140 and Evaluation of Distinct Population Segments, for the Queen Charlotte Goshawk

12/13/2007 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Jollyville Notice of 12–month Petition 72 FR 1039-71054 Plateau salamander (Eurycea tonkawae) as Endan- Finding, Warranted but Pre- gered With Critical Habitat cluded

1/08/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Pygmy Rabbit Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 1312-1313 (Brachylagus idahoensis) as Threatened or Endan- ing, Substantial gered

1/10/2008 90-Day Finding on Petition To List the Amargosa River Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 1855-1861 Population of the Mojave Fringe-Toed Lizard (Uma ing, Substantial scoparia) as Threatened or Endangered With Critical Habitat

1/24/2008 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Siskiyou Notice of 12–month Petition 73 FR 4379-4418 Mountains Salamander (Plethodon stormi) and Scott Finding, Not Warranted Bar Salamander (Plethodon asupak) as Threatened or Endangered

2/05/2008 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Gunnison’s Notice of 12–month Petition 73 FR 6660-6684 Prairie Dog as Threatened or Endangered Finding, Warranted but Pre- cluded

02/07/2008 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Bonneville Notice of Review 73 FR 7236-7237 Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki utah) as Threatened or Endangered

02/19/2008 Listing Phyllostegia hispida (No Common Name) as Proposed Listing, Endangered 73 FR 9078-9085 Endangered Throughout Its Range

02/26/2008 Initiation of Status Review for the Greater Sage-Grouse Notice of Status Review 73 FR 10218-10219 (Centrocercus urophasianus) as Threatened or En- dangered

03/11/2008 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the North Amer- Notice 12–month petition find- 73 FR 12929-12941 ican Wolverine as Endangered or Threatened ing, Not warranted

03/20/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the U.S. Popu- Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 14950-14955 lation of Coaster Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) ing, Substantial as Endangered

04/29/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Western Sage- Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 23170-23172 Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus phaios) as ing, Substantial Threatened or Endangered

04/29/2008 90-Day Finding on Petitions To List the Mono Basin Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 23173-23175 Area Population of the Greater Sage-Grouse ing, Substantial (Centrocercus urophasianus) as Threatened or En- dangered

05/06/2008 Petition To List the San Francisco Bay-Delta Popu- Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 24611-24915 lation of the Longfin Smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) ing, Substantial as Endangered

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FY 2008 Completed Listing Actions—Continued

Publication Date Title Actions FR Pages

05/06/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Kokanee Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 24915-24922 (Oncorhynchus nerka) in Lake Sammamish, Wash- ing, Substantial ington, as Threatened or Endangered

05/06/2008 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the White-tailed Notice of Status Review 73 FR 24910-24911 Prairie Dog (Cynomys leucurus) as Threatened or Endangered

05/15/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Ashy Storm- Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 28080-28084 Petrel (Oceanodroma homochroa) as Threatened or ing, Substantial Endangered

05/15/2008 Determination of Threatened Status for the Polar Bear Final Listing, Threatened 73 FR 28211-28303 (Ursus maritimus) Throughout Its Range; Final Rule

05/15/2008 Special Rule for the Polar Bear; Interim Final Rule Interim Final Special Rule 73 FR 28305-28318

05/28/2008 Initiation of Status Review for the Northern Mexican Notice of Status Review 73 FR 30596-30598 Gartersnake (Thamnophis eques megalops)

06/18/2008 90-Day Finding on aPetition To List the Long-Tailed Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 34686-34692 Duck (Clangula hyemalis) as Endangered ing, Not substantial

07/10/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition To Reclassify the Delta Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 39639-39643 Smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) From Threatened ing, Substantial to Endangered

07/29/2008 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Tucson Shov- Notice of 90–day Petition Find- 73 FR 43905-43910 el-Nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis klauberi) as ing, Substantial Threatened or Endangered with Critical Habitat

8/13/2008 Proposed Endangered Status for Reticulated Proposed Critical Habitat, Pro- 73 FR 47257-47324 Flatwoods Salamander; Proposed Designation of posed Listing, Endangered Critical Habitat for Frosted Flatwoods Salamander and Reticulated Flatwoods Salamander

9/9/2008 12-month Finding on a Petition to List the Bonneville Notice 12 month petition find- 73 FR 52235-52256 Cutthroat Trout as Threatened or Endangered ing, Not-warranted

Our expeditious progress also Actions funded in FY 2008 but not Actions funded in FY 2008 but not included work on listing actions, which completed in 2008 completed in 2008—Continued were funded in FY 2008, but were not completed in FY 2008 (information on Action Action the cost of individual actions are part of Species Actions Subject to Species Actions Subject to our administrative record). These Court Order/Settle- Court Order/Settle- actions are listed below. We have ment Agreement ment Agreement completed all work funded in FY 2008 on all actions under a deadline set by a NONE NONE White-tailed prairie 12–month petition court. Actions in the middle section of dog finding the table are being conducted to meet Actions with Statu- tory Deadlines statutory timelines, that is, timelines Pygmy rabbit 12–month petition (rangewide) finding required under the Act. Actions in the Phyllostegia hispida Final listing bottom section of the table are high Black-tailed prairie 90–day petition find- priority listing actions. These actions Yellow-billed loon 12–month petition dog ing include work primarily on species with finding an LPN of 2, and selection of these Lynx (include New 90–day petition find- Black-footed alba- 12–month petition Mexico in listing) ing species is partially based on available tross finding staff resources, and when appropriate, Wyoming pocket go- 90–day petition find- include species with a lower priority if Mount Charleston 12–month petition pher ing they overlap geographically or have the blue butterfly finding same threats as the species with the Dusky Tree Vole1 90–day petition find- Goose Creek milk- 12–month petition high priority. Including these species ing vetch finding together in the same proposed rule results in considerable savings in time Mojave fringe-toed 12–month petition Llanero coqui 90–day petition find- and funding as compared to preparing lizard finding ing separate proposed rules for each of them in the future.

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Actions funded in FY 2008 but not Actions funded in FY 2008 but not summaries below regarding publication completed in 2008—Continued completed in 2008—Continued of these determinations. We also funded revised 12–month petition findings for Action Action two candidate species that we are removing from candidate status, which Species Actions Subject to Species Actions Subject to are being published as part of this Court Order/Settle- Court Order/Settle- ment Agreement ment Agreement CNOR (see Summary of Candidate Removals). Because the majority of American pika 90–day petition find- 2 mussels (rayed Proposed listing these species were already candidate ing bean (LPN = 2), species prior to our receipt of a petition snuffbox No LPN) to list them, we had already assessed Sacramento Valley 90–day petition find- their status using funds from our Tiger Beetle1 ing 2 mussels Proposed listing Candidate Conservation Program. We (sheepnose (LPN also continue to monitor the status of Sacramento Mts. 90–day petition find- = 2), spectaclecase these species through our Candidate checkerspot but- ing Conservation Program. The cost of terfly (LPN = 4),) updating the species assessment forms 206 species 90–day petition find- Ozark hellbender3 Proposed listing and publishing the joint publication of ing (LPN = 3) the CNOR and resubmitted petition findings is shared between the Listing Altamaha Proposed listing 475 Southwestern 90–day petition find- Program and the Candidate spinymussel (LPN species ing = 2) Conservation Program. During FY 2008, we also funded work High Priority Listing 4 southeast fish Proposed listing on resubmitted petition findings for Actions (rush darter (LPN uplisting five listed species, for which = 2), chucky petitions were previously received. 48 Kauai species1 Proposed listing madtom (LPN = We have endeavored to make our (includes 31 can- (completed in Oc- 2), Cumberland listing actions as efficient and timely as didate species: 24 tober 2008) darter (LPN = 5), with LPN = 2, 3 possible, given the requirements of the laurel dace (LPN relevant law and regulations, and with LPN = 3, 1 = 5)) with LPN = 5, 2 constraints relating to workload and with LPN = 8) 2 Colorado plants Proposed listing personnel. We are continually (Parachute considering ways to streamline 21 Oahu candidate Proposed listing beardtongue processes or achieve economies of scale, species (16 plants, (Penstemon such as by batching related actions 5 damselflies) (18 debilis) (LPN = 2), together. Given our limited budget for with LPN = 2, 3 Debeque phacelia implementing section 4 of the Act, these with LPN = 3, 1 (Phacelia actions described above collectively with LPN = 9) submutica) (LPN = constitute expeditious progress. 8)) 3 southeast aquatic Proposed listing Although we have not been able to resolve the listing status of many of the species (Georgia Pagosa skyrocket Proposed listing pigtoe, interrupted (Ipomopsis candidates, several programs in the rocksnail, rough polyantha) (LPN = Service contribute to the conservation of hornsnail)2 (all 2) these species. In particular, we have a with LPN = 2) separate budgeted program, the Candidate Conservation program, which 1 These actions were completed in October Casey’s june beetle Proposed listing focuses on providing technical expertise (LPN = 2) 2008. 2 Funds for listing actions for 3 of these for developing conservation strategies species were also provided in FY 2007. and agreements to guide voluntary on- Sand dune lizard Proposed listing 3 We funded a proposed rule for this sub- the-ground conservation work for (LPN = 2) species with an LPN of 3 ahead of other spe- cies with LPN of 2, because the threats to the candidate and other at-risk species. The 2 southwest Proposed listing species were so imminent and of a high mag- main goal of this program is to address springsnails nitude that we considered emergency listing if the threats facing candidate species. (Pyrgulopsis we were unable to fund work on a proposed Through this program, we work with listing rule in FY 2008. bernadina (LPN = our partners (other Federal agencies, 2), Pyrgulopsis We also funded work on resubmitted State agencies, Tribes, local trivialis (LPN = 2)) petitions findings for 174 candidate governments, private landowners, and species (species petitioned prior to the private conservation organizations) to 3 southwest Proposed listing last CNOR). We did not update our address the threats to candidate species springsnails resubmitted petition finding for the (Pyrgulopsis and other species at-risk. We are chupaderae (LPN Columbia Basin population of the currently working with our partners to = 2), Pyrgulopsis greater sage-grouse in this notice, as we implement voluntary conservation gilae (LPN = 11), are considering new information and agreements for more than 140 species Pyrgulopsis will update our findings at a later date covering 5 million acres of habitat. thermalis (LPN = (see 73 FR 23170, April 29, 2008). We We are actively working to conserve 11)) also did not update our resubmitted many candidate species. In some petition findings for the 66 candidate instances, the sustained implementation species for which we are preparing of strategically designed conservation proposed listing determinations; see efforts culminates in making listing

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unnecessary for species that are understood; however, current threats to is based on information contained in proposed or candidates for listing. this subspecies and the DPS include our files and information received in Recent examples of species for which habitat loss, predation by introduced response to our notice published on listing has been unnecessary due to the species, and its small population size June 30, 2004, when we announced our contributions of conservation efforts and distribution, which make the taxon 90–day petition finding and initiation of include the Cow Head tui chub, Beaver extremely vulnerable to extinction due a status review (69 FR 39395). We Cave beetle, Surprising Cave beetle, and to typhoons and similar natural received the petition on August 30, Sand Mountain blue butterfly. catastrophes. Thus, the threats are high 2000. in magnitude. The Pacific sheath-tailed The New England cottontail (NEC) is Findings for Petitioned Candidate bat may also by susceptible to a medium to large sized cottontail rabbit Species disturbance to roosting caves. The LPN that may reach 1,000 grams in weight, For our revised 12–month petition for E. s. semicaudata is 3 because the and is one of two species within the findings for species we are removing magnitude of the threats is high, the genus Sylvilagus occurring in New from candidate status, see summaries threats are ongoing, and therefore, England. New England cottontails are above under ‘‘Summary of Candidate imminent, and the taxon is a distinct considered habitat specialists, in so far Removals.’’ population segment of a subspecies. as they are dependent upon early- Mammals Pacific Sheath-tailed Bat successional habitats typically (Emballonura semicaudata rotensis), described as thickets. The species is the Pacific Sheath-tailed Bat, American Guam and the Commonwealth of the only endemic cottontail in New Samoa DPS (Emballonura semicaudata Northern Mariana Islands – The England. Historically, the NEC occurred semicaudata) – The following summary following summary is based on in seven states and ranged from is based on information contained in information contained in our files. No southeastern New York (east of the our files. No new information was new information was provided in the Hudson River) north through the provided in the petition we received on petition we received on May 11, 2004. Champlain Valley, southern Vermont, May 11, 2004. This small bat is a This small bat is a member of the the southern half of New Hampshire, member of the Emballonuridae, an Old Emballonuridae, an Old World bat southern Maine and south throughout World bat family that has an extensive family that has an extensive Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode distribution, primarily in the tropics. distribution, primarily in the tropics. Island. The current range of the NEC has The Pacific sheath-tailed bat was once The Pacific sheath-tailed bat was once declined substantially and occurrences common and widespread in Polynesia common and widespread in Polynesia have become increasingly separated. and Micronesia and it is the only and Micronesia and it is the only The species’ distribution is fragmented insectivorous bat recorded from a large insectivorous bat recorded from a large into five apparently isolated part of this area. The species as a whole part of this area. E. s. rotensis is metapopulations. The area occupied by (E. semicaudata) occurred on several of historically known from the Mariana the cottontail has contracted from the Caroline Islands (Palau, Chuuk, and Islands and formerly occurred on Guam approximately 90,000 sq km to 12,180 Pohnpei), Samoa (Independent and and in the CNMI on Rota, Aguiguan, sq km. Recent surveys indicate that the American), the Mariana Islands (Guam Tinian (known from prehistoric records long term decline in NEC continues. For and the CNMI), Tonga, Fiji, and only), Saipan, and possibly Anatahan example, surveys for the species in early Vanuatu. While populations appear to and Maug. Currently, E. s. rotensis 2008 documented the presence of NEC be healthy in some locations, mainly in appears to be extirpated from all but one in 7 of the 23 New Hampshire locations the Caroline Islands, they have declined island in the Mariana archipelago. The that were known to be occupied in 2002 substantially in other areas, including single remaining population of this and 2003. Similarly, surveys in Maine Independent and American Samoa, the subspecies occurs on Aguiguan, found the species present in 12 of 57 Mariana Islands, Fiji, and possibly Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana sites identified in an extensive survey Tonga. Scientists recognize four Islands (CNMI). that spanned the years 2000 to 2004. subspecies: E. s. rotensis, endemic to the Threats to this subspecies have not Unlike the New Hampshire study, Mariana Islands (Guam and the changed over the past year. The primary several new sites were documented in Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana threats to the subspecies are ongoing Maine during 2008. Some have Islands (CNMI)); E. s. sulcata, occurring habitat loss and degradation as a result suggested that the decline in NEC in Chuuk and Pohnpei; E. s. palauensis, of feral goat (Capra hircus) activity on occurrences in 2008 may be attributed found in Palau; and E. s. semicaudata, the island of Aguiguan and the taxon’s to persistent snow cover throughout occurring in American and Independent small population size and limited northern New England during the Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Vanuatu. This distribution. Predation by nonnative winter of 2007-2008. Similar surveys to candidate assessment form addresses species and human disturbance are also assess trends in other states have not the distinct population segment (DPS) of potential threats to the subspecies. The been conducted. It is estimated that less E. s. semicaudata that occurs in subspecies may be near the point where than one third of the occupied sites American Samoa. stochastic events, such as typhoons, are occur on lands in conservation status E. s. semicaudata historically increasingly likely to affect its and fewer than 10 percent are being occurred in American and Independent continued survival. The disappearance managed for early-successional forest Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Vanuatu. It is of the remaining population on species. extant in Fiji and Tonga, but may be Aguiguan would result in the extinction The primary threat to the New extirpated from Vanuatu and of the subspecies. Thus, the threats are England cottontail is loss of habitat Independent Samoa. There is some high in magnitude. The LPN for E. s. through succession and alteration. concern that it is also extirpated from rotensis remains at 3 because the Isolation of occupied patches by areas of American Samoa, the location of this magnitude of the threats is high, the unsuitable habitat and high predation DPS, where surveys are currently threats are ongoing, and therefore, rates are resulting in local extirpation of ongoing to ascertain its status. The imminent, and the taxon is a subspecies. New England cottontails from small factors that led to the decline of this New England cottontail (Sylvilagus patches. The range of the New England subspecies and the DPS are poorly transitionalis) – The following summary cottontail has contracted by 75 percent

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or more since 1960 and current land various forest vegetation management distribution is also a major contributor uses in the region indicate that the rate practices such as timber harvest and to the vulnerability of this species and of change, about two percent range loss fuels reduction treatments. Other increases the likelihood of very small, per year, will continue. Additional potential major threats in portions of the isolated populations being extirpated. threats include competition for food and range include: uncharacteristically The insufficient number of secure habitat with introduced eastern severe wildfire, changes in forest populations, and the destruction, cottontails and large numbers of native composition and structure, urban and modification, or curtailment of its white-tailed deer; inadequate regulatory rural development, recreation habitat, continue to pose the most mechanisms to protect habitat; and development, and highways. Major immediate threats to this species. mortality from predation. The threats to fisher that lead to direct Because the threats affect the survival of magnitude of the threats continues to be mortality and injury to fisher include: jumping mouse in all but two of the high, because they occur rangewide, and Collisions with vehicles; predation; and extant localities, the threats are of a high have an effect on the survival of the viral borne diseases such as rabies, magnitude. These threats are currently species. They are imminent because parvovirus, canine distemper, and occurring and, therefore, are imminent. they are ongoing. Thus, we retained an Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Existing Thus, we continue to assign an LPN of LPN of 2 for this species. regulatory mechanisms on Federal, 3 to this subspecies. Fisher, West Coast DPS (Martes State, and private lands affect key Mazama pocket gopher (Thomomys pennanti) – The following summary is elements of fisher habitat and do not mazama ssp. couchi, douglasii, based on information contained in our currently provide sufficient certainty glacialis, louiei, melanops, pugetensis, files and in the Service’s initial that conservation efforts will be tacomensis, tumuli, yelmensis) – The warranted-but-precluded finding effective or will be implemented. The following summary is based on published in the Federal Register on magnitude of threats is high, as they information contained in our files. No April 8, 2004 (68 FR 18770). The fisher occur across the range of the DPS new information was provided in the is a carnivore in the family Mustelidae resulting in a negative impact on fisher petition received December 11, 2002. and is the largest member of the genus distribution and abundance. However, One subspecies, T. m. melanops is Martes. Historically, the West Coast the threats are nonimminent as the found on alpine meadows in Olympic population of the fisher extended south greatest long-term risks to the fisher in National Park. Another subspecies, T. from British Columbia into western its west coast range are the subsequent m. douglasii is found in extreme Washington and Oregon, and in the ramifications of the isolation of small southwest Washington. The other seven North Coast Ranges, Klamath-Siskiyou populations and their interactions with subspecies of this pocket gopher are Mountains, and Sierra Nevada in the listed threats. The three other areas associated with glacial outwash prairies California. The fisher is believed to be containing fisher populations appear to in western Washington. Of these seven extirpated or reduced to scattered be stable or are not rapidly declining subspecies, five are likely still extant individuals from the lower mainland of based on recent survey and monitoring (couchi, glacialis, pugetensis, tumuli, British Columbia through Washington efforts. Therefore, we assigned an LPN and yelmensis) and two (T. m. louiei, and in the central and northern Sierra of 6 to this population. and tacomensis) are likely extinct. Few Nevada range in California. Native New Mexico meadow jumping mouse glacial outwash prairies remain in populations of fisher currently occur in (Zapus hudsonius luteus) – The Washington today. Historically, such the North Coast Ranges of California, the following summary is based on prairies were patchily distributed, but Klamath- Siskiyou Mountains of information contained in our files and the area they occupied totaled northern California and southern the petition we received October 15, approximately 170,000 acres. Now, Oregon, and in isolated populations 2008. The New Mexico meadow residential and commercial occurring in the southern Sierra Nevada jumping mouse (jumping mouse) is development, fire regime alteration, and in California. Descendents of a fisher endemic to New Mexico, Arizona, and ingrowth of woody vegetation have reintroduction effort also occur in the a small area of southern Colorado. The further reduced their numbers. In southern Cascade Range in Oregon. In jumping mouse nests in dry soils, but addition, development in or adjacent to January of 2008, the Washington uses moist, streamside, dense riparian/ these prairies has likely increased Department of Fish and Wildlife began wetland vegetation. Recent genetic predation on Mazama pocket gophers by to implement their fisher recovery goals studies confirm that the New Mexico dogs and cats. for the state through a reintroduction meadow jumping mouse is a distinct The magnitude of threat is high effort currently underway in the subspecies from other Zapus hudsonius because the survival of the subspecies is Olympic National Park. subspecies, confirming the currently significantly affected by the patchy and We lack precise empirical data on accepted subspecies designation. isolated distributions of its populations West Coast DPS fisher numbers. The threats that have been identified in habitats highly desirable for However, there is a lack of detections are excessive grazing pressure, water development and subject to a wide over much of the fisher’s historic range, use and management, highway variety of human activities that even with standardized survey and reconstruction, development, recreation, permanently alter the habitat. Only the monitoring efforts in California, Oregon, and beaver removal. Surveys conducted Olympic pocket gopher is not and Washington. There is also a high in 2005 and 2006 documented a drastic threatened with development. The degree of genetic relatedness within decline in the number of occupied threat of invasive plant species to the some populations, and populations of localities and suitable habitat across the quality of a highly specific habitat native fisher in California are separated range of the species in New Mexico and requirement is high and constant. There by four times the species’ maximum Arizona. Of the original 98 known are few known populations of each dispersal distance. The above listed historical localities, there are now only subspecies. A limited dispersal factors all indicate that the likely extant 9 known extant localities in New capability, and the loss and degradation fisher populations are small and Mexico, 2 in Arizona, and an additional of additional patches of appropriate isolated from one another. 8 localities that have not been surveyed habitat will further isolate populations Major threats that fragment or remove since the early to mid 1990s. Moreover, and increase their vulnerability to key elements of fisher habitat include the highly fragmented nature of its extinction. Loss of any of the subspecies

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will reduce the genetic diversity and the Springs ground squirrel subspecies an information contained in our files and likelihood of continued existence of the LPN of 3 because the threats are ongoing in the petition we received on March 2, Thomomys mazama subspecies and are of a high magnitude as they 2000. The Washington ground squirrel complex in Washington. affect a large portion of its’ range and is endemic to the Deschutes-Columbia The threats are ongoing and, significantly affect this subspecies Plateau sagebrush-steppe and grassland therefore, imminent. Gravel pits survival. communities in eastern Oregon and threaten persistence of one of the Southern Idaho ground squirrel south-central Washington. Although remaining subspecies (Roy Prairie (T. m. (Spermophilus brunneus endemicus) – widely abundant historically, recent glacialis)), and the largest populations The following summary is based on surveys suggest that its current range of two other subspecies (Shelton (T. m. information contained in our files. No has contracted toward the center of its couchi) and Olympia (T. m. pugetensis)) new information was provided in the historic range. Approximately two- are located on airports with planned petition we received on May 11, 2004. thirds of the Washington ground development. Yelm pocket gophers are The southern Idaho ground squirrel is squirrel’s total historic range has been also threatened by proposed endemic to four counties in southwest converted to agricultural and residential development on Fort Lewis, and Tenino Idaho; its total known range is uses. The most contiguous, least- pocket gophers (T. m. tumuli) are approximately 425,630 hectares disturbed expanse of suitable habitat threatened by ongoing development in (1,051,752 acres). Threats to southern general. Only the Olympic pocket Idaho ground squirrels include: habitat within the species’ range occurs on a gopher (T. m. melanops) is relatively degradation and fragmentation; direct site owned by Boeing, Inc. and on the safe from threats from development due killing from shooting, trapping, or Naval Weapons Systems Training to its more remote location within the poisoning; predation; competition with Facility near Boardman, Oregon. In Olympic National Park, but this Columbian ground squirrels; and Washington, the largest expanse of subspecies is still currently affected by inadequacy of existing regulatory known suitable habitat occurs on State invasive plants. Thus, we assign an LPN mechanisms. Habitat degradation and and Federal lands. of 3 to these subspecies. fragmentation appear to be the primary Agricultural, residential, and wind Palm Springs round-tailed ground threats to the species. Nonnative power, among other forms of squirrel (Spermophilus tereticaudus annuals now dominate much of this development, continue to eliminate chlorus) –The following summary is species’ range, have changed the species Washington ground squirrel habitat in based on information contained in our composition of vegetation used as forage portions of its range. Throughout much files. No new information was provided for the southern Idaho ground squirrel, of its range, Washington ground in the petition we received on May 11, and have altered the fire regime by squirrels are threatened by the 2004. The Palm Springs round-tailed accelerating the frequency of wildfire. establishment and spread of invasive ground squirrel is one of four Habitat deterioration, destruction, and plant species, particularly cheatgrass, recognized subspecies of round-tailed fragmentation contribute to the current which alters available cover, food ground squirrels. The range of this patchy distribution of southern Idaho quantity and quality, and increases fire squirrel is limited to the Coachella ground squirrels. Based on recent intervals. Additional threats include Valley region of Riverside County, genetic work, southern Idaho ground habitat fragmentation, recreational California. Dunes and hummocks squirrels are subject to more genetic shooting, genetic isolation and drift, and associated with Prosopis glandulosa var. drift and inbreeding than expected. predation. Potential threats include torreyana (honey mesquite) are the Two Candidate Conservation disease, drought, and possible primary habitat for the Palm Springs Agreements with Assurances (CCAAs) competition with related species in round-tailed ground squirrel and to a have been completed for this species in disturbed habitat at the periphery of lesser extent those dunes and recent years. Both CCAAs include their range. In Oregon, some threats are hummocks associated with Larrea conservation measures that provide being addressed as a result of the State tridentata (creosote), or other additional protection to southern Idaho vegetation. Honey mesquite provides a ground squirrels from recreational listing of this species, and by valuable food source for the squirrel and shooting and other direct killing on implementation of the Threemile also provides cover and shelter by enrolled lands, and also allow the State Canyon Farms Multi-Species Candidate trapping aeolian sand that form dunes of Idaho, the Service and BLM to Conservation Agreement with occupied by the Palm Springs round- investigate ways of restoring currently Assurances (CCAA). In Washington, tailed ground squirrel. Rapid growth of degraded habitat. At this time, the there are currently no formal agreements desert cities such as Palm Springs and acreage enrolled through these two with private landowners or with State or Palm Desert in the Coachella Valley has CCAAs is approximately 38,756 Federal agencies to protect the raised concerns about the conservation hectares (95,767 acres), or 9 percent of Washington ground squirrel. of the narrowly distributed Palm the known range. While the ongoing Additionally, no State or Federal Springs round-tailed ground squirrel. conservation efforts have helped to management plans have been developed Urban development and drops in the reduce the magnitude of threats to that specifically address the needs of the groundwater table have eliminated 90 moderate, habitat degradation remains species or its habitat. Since current and percent of the honey mesquite in the the primary threat to the species potential threats are widespread and, in Coachella Valley. Furthermore, urban throughout most of its range. This threat some cases, severe, we conclude the development has fragmented habitat is imminent due to the ongoing and magnitude of threats remains high. occupied by this squirrel thereby increasing prevalence and dominance of However, because the CCAA addressed isolating populations. The high rate of nonnative vegetation, and the current the imminent loss of a large portion of urban development and associated patchy distribution of the species. Thus, habitat to agriculture, and because there lowering of the groundwater table that we assign an LPN of 9 to this are no other known, large-scale efforts to was likely historically responsible for subspecies. convert suitable habitat to agriculture, the high losses of honey mesquite sand Washington ground squirrel the threats, overall, are not imminent. dune/hummocks habitat continues (Spermophilus washingtoni) – The We, therefore, have kept the LPN at 5 for today. We continue to assign the Palm following summary is based on this species.

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Birds natural catastrophes such as hurricanes. of riparian degradation. In addition to Spotless crake, American Samoa DPS The co-occurrence of a known predator destruction and degradation of riparian (Porzana tabuensis) – The following of ground-nesting birds, the Norway rat habitats, pesticides may affect cuckoo summary is based on information (Rattus norvegicus), along with the populations. In areas where riparian contained in our files. No new extremely restricted observed habitat borders agricultural lands, e.g., information was provided in the distribution and low numbers, indicate in California’s central valley, pesticide petition we received on May 11, 2004. that the magnitude of the threats to the use may indirectly affect cuckoos by P. tabuensis is a small, dark, cryptic rail American Samoa DPS of the spotless reducing prey numbers, or by poisoning found in wetlands and rank scrub or crake continues to be high, because the nestlings if sprayed directly in areas forest in the Philippines, Australia, Fiji, threats significantly affect the species where the birds are nesting. We retained Tonga, Society Islands, Marquesas, survival. The threats are ongoing, and an LPN of 3 for this population of Independent Samoa, and American therefore imminent. Based on this yellow-billed cuckoo; the threats are Samoa (Ofu, Tau). The genus Porzana is assessment of existing information ongoing and therefore imminent, and widespread in the Pacific, where it is about the imminence and high they are of a high magnitude, because represented by numerous island- magnitude of these threats, we assigned ongoing habitat degradation could affect endemic and flightless species (many of the spotless crake an LPN of 3. the survival of the DPS rangewide. Yellow-billed cuckoo, western U.S. Friendly ground-dove, American which are extinct as a result of DPS (Coccyzus americanus) – The Samoa DPS (Gallicolumba stairi stairi) – anthropogenic disturbances) as well as following summary is based on The following summary is based on several more cosmopolitan species, information contained in our files and information contained in our files. No including P. tabuensis. No subspecies of the petition we received on February 9, new information was provided in the P. tabuensis are recognized. The 1998. See also our 12–month petition petition we received on May 11, 2004. American Samoa population is the only finding published on July 25, 2001 (66 The genus Gallicolumba is distributed population of spotless crakes under U.S. FR 38611). We consider the yellow- throughout the Pacific and Southeast jurisdiction. The available information billed cuckoos that occur in the western Asia. The genus is represented in the indicates that distinct populations of the United States as a DPS. The area for this oceanic Pacific by six species: Three are spotless crake, a species not noted for DPS is west of the crest of the Rocky endemic to Micronesian islands or long-distance dispersal, are definable. Mountains. The yellow-billed cuckoo archipelagos, two are endemic to island The population of spotless crakes in (Coccyzus americanus) is a medium- groups in French Polynesia, and G. American Samoa is discrete in relation sized bird that breeds in large blocks of stairi is endemic to Samoa, Tonga, and to the remainder of the species as a riparian habitats (particularly Fiji. Some authors recognize two whole, which is distributed in widely woodlands with cottonwoods (Populus subspecies of the friendly ground-dove, separated locations. Although the fremontii) and willows (Salix sp.). one, slightly smaller, in the Samoan spotless crake (and other rails) have Dense understory foliage appears to be archipelago (G. s. stairi), and one in dispersed widely in the Pacific, island an important factor in nest site Tonga and Fiji (G. s. vitiensis), but rails have tended to reduce or lose their selection, while cottonwood trees are an because morphological differences power of flight over evolutionary time important foraging habitat in areas between the two are minimal, we are and so become isolated (and vulnerable where the species has been studied in not recognizing separate subspecies at to terrestrial predators such as rats). The California. this time. population of this species in American The threats currently facing the In American Samoa, the friendly Samoa is therefore distinct based on yellow-billed cuckoo include habitat ground-dove has been found on the geographic and distributional isolation destruction and modification and islands of Ofu and Olosega (Manua from spotless crake populations on pesticide application. Principal causes Group). Threats to this subspecies have other islands in the oceanic Pacific, the of riparian habitat losses are conversion not changed over the past year. Philippines, and Australia. The to agricultural and other uses, dams and Predation by nonnative species and American Samoa population of the river flow management, stream natural catastrophes such as hurricanes spotless crake links the Central and channelization and stabilization, and are the primary threats to the Eastern Pacific portions of the species’ livestock grazing. Available breeding subspecies. Of these, predation by range. The loss of this population could habitats for cuckoos have also been nonnative species is thought to be cause an increase of roughly 500 miles substantially reduced in area and occurring now and likely has been (805 kilometers) in the disjunction quality by groundwater pumping and occurring for several decades. This between the central and eastern the replacement of native riparian predation may be an important Polynesian portions of the spotless habitats by invasive nonnative plants, impediment to increasing the crake’s range, and could result in the particularly tamarisk. Overuse by population. Predation by introduced isolation of the Marquesas and Society livestock has been a major factor in the species has played a significant role in Islands populations by further limiting degradation and modification of reducing, limiting, and extirpating the potential for even rare genetic riparian habitats in the western United populations of island birds, especially exchange. Based on the discreteness and States. The effects include changes in ground-nesters, in the Pacific and other significance of the American Samoa plant community structure and species locations worldwide. Nonnative population of the spotless crake, we composition and in relative abundance predators known or thought to occur in consider this population to be a distinct of species and plant density. These the range of the friendly ground-dove in vertebrate population segment. changes are often linked to more American Samoa are feral cats (Felis Threats to this population have not widespread changes in watershed catus), Polynesian rats (Rattus exulans), changed over the past year. The hydrology. Livestock grazing in riparian black rats (R. rattus), and Norway rats population in American Samoa is habitats typically results in reduction of (R. norvegicus). threatened by small population size, plant species diversity and density, In January 2004 and February of 2005, limited distribution, predation by especially of palatable broadleaf plants hurricanes virtually destroyed the nonnative mammals, continued like willows and cottonwood saplings, habitat of G. stairi in an area on Olosega development of wetland habitat, and and is one of the most common causes Island where the species had been most

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frequently recorded. Although this suitable lark nesting habitat is birds at McChord AFB, planned and/or species has coexisted with severe storms unknown. continued expansions of the McChord for millennia, this example illustrates Wintering habitats are seemingly few, AFB West Ramp and Olympia Airport, the potential for natural disturbance to and susceptible to unpredictable and human disturbance, including exacerbate the effect of anthropogenic conversion to unsuitable over-wintering annual Air Force military training and disturbance on small populations. habitat. Where larks inhabit human- fire-bombing on top of lark nesting Consistent monitoring using a variety of created habitats similar in structure to habitat. We continue to assign an LPN methods over the last 5 years yielded native prairies (such as airports, military of 3 to this subspecies. few observations of this taxon in reservations, agricultural fields, and Red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) – See American Samoa. The total population dredge-formed islands), or where they above in ‘‘Summary of Listing Priority size is poorly known, but is unlikely to occur adjacent to human habitation, Changes in Candidates.’’ The above number more than a few hundred pairs. they are subjected to a variety of summary is based on information The past five years or so of surveys have unintentional human disturbances such contained in our files and information revealed no change in the relative as mowing, recreational and military provided by petitioners. Four petitions abundance of this taxon in American activities, plowing, flooding, and dredge to emergency list the red knot have been Samoa. The distribution of the friendly spoil dumping during the nesting received: one on August 9, 2004, two ground-dove is limited to steep, forested season, as well as intentional others on August 5, 2005, and the most slopes with an open understory and a disturbances such as at the McChord recent on February 27, 2008. substrate of fine scree or exposed earth; AFB where falcons and dogs are used to Kittlitz’s murrelet (Brachyramphus this habitat is not common in American haze the birds in order to avoid aircraft brevirostris) – The following summary is Samoa. The threats are ongoing and, collisions. In some areas, landowners based on information contained in our therefore imminent and the magnitude have taken steps to improve streaked files and the petition we received on is moderate because the relative horned lark nesting habitat. May 9, 2001. Kittlitz’s murrelet is a abundance has remained the same for The magnitude of the threats is high small diving seabird whose entire North several years. Thus, we assign this due to small populations with low American population, and most of the subspecies an LPN of 9. genetic diversity, and patchy and world’s population, inhabits Alaskan isolated habitats in areas desirable for coastal waters discontinuously from Streaked horned lark (Eremophila development, many of which remain Point Lay south to northern portions of alpestris strigata) – The following unsecured. The threat of invasive plant Southeast Alaska. Kittlitz’s murrelets summary is based on information species is high and constant, aside from are associated with tidewater glaciers. contained in our files. No new a few restoration sites. The numbers of The current population estimate for information was provided in the individuals are low and the numbers of Kittlitz’s murrelets in Alaska is petition we received on December 11, populations are few. Over-wintering approximately 16,700 birds, a decline of 2002. The streaked horned lark occurs birds are concentrated in larger flocks 74 to 84 percent during the past 10 to in Washington and Oregon, and is and subject to unpredictable wintering 20 years. New survey information thought to be extirpated in British habitat loss (especially in the supports and strengthens the negative Columbia, Canada. The streaked horned Willamette Valley, Oregon), potentially population trend estimates that have lark nests on the ground in sparsely affecting a large portion of the been previously reported. vegetated sites in short-grass dominated population at one time. In Washington, Threats to Kittlitz’s murrelets include habitats, such as native prairies, coastal known populations occur on airports large-scale processes such as global dunes, fallow agricultural fields, lightly- and military bases (6 of 13 sites), coastal climate change and marine climate to moderately-grazed pastures, seasonal beaches (4 of 13 sites), and Columbia regime shift. These large-scale processes mudflats, airports, and dredged-material River islands (3 of 13 sites), where may influence Kittlitz’s murrelet formed islands in the Columbia River. management, training activities, survival and reproduction. Glacial In Washington, surveys show that there recreation, and dredge spoil dumping retreat, a global phenomenon that affects are approximately 330 remaining continue to negatively impact streaked many of the glaciers with which breeding birds. In Oregon, the breeding horned lark breeding and wintering. In Kittlitz’s murrelets are associated, is population is estimated to be Oregon, breeding and wintering sites associated with changing forage fish approximately 400 birds. occur on Columbia River islands, in availability and may result in increased The streaked horned lark’s breeding cultivated grass fields, grazed pastures, predation. Other ongoing threats habitat continues to be threatened by fallow fields, roadside shoulders, include oil spills, bycatch in loss and degradation due to conversion Christmas tree farms, and wetland commercial gillnet fisheries, and of native grasslands to other uses (such mudflats. Such areas continue to be disturbance by tour boats. Kittlitz’s as agriculture, homes, recreational areas, subject to negative impacts such as murrelets are believed to have been and industry), encroachment of woody dredge spoil dumping, development, seriously affected by the Exxon Valdez vegetation, and invasion of nonnative plowing, mowing, pesticide and oil spill in Prince William Sound in plant species (e.g., Scot’s broom, sod- herbicide applications, trampling, 1989. Catastrophic events such as oil forming grasses, and beachgrasses). vehicle traffic, and recreation. Many of spills could have a significant negative Native prairies have been nearly these Oregon sites are ephemeral in effect on the population of this already eliminated throughout the range of the nature, with the quality of habitat diminished species. Susceptibility to species. Less than 1 to 3 percent of the changing from year to year from suitable mortality as bycatch in commercial native grassland and savanna are to unsuitable. Thus the numbers of sites fishing could be a significant factor in estimated to remain. Those that remain also changes year to year. their population decline; Kittlitz’s have been invaded by nonnative sod- The threats are imminent, due to the murrelets are caught in gill nets in forming grasses. Coastal nesting areas continued loss of suitable lark habitat, numbers disproportionate to their have suffered the same fate. A recent risks to the wintering populations, plans density. Tour boat visitation to glacial purchase of prairie lands in Washington for development on and adjacent to fjords is a growing industry, and this has secured habitat that would have several of its nesting areas, predation, activity may increasingly disrupt been developed, but its status as use of falcons and dogs to haze breeding Kittlitz’s murrelet feeding behavior; tour

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boats may provide artificial perch sites may benefit the Xantus’s murrelet Therefore, we retained an LPN of 5 for for avian predators. population at those islands. this species. Based on the observed population Artificial lighting from squid fishing Lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus trajectory and the severity of present and other vessels, or lights on islands, pallidicinctus) - See above in ‘‘Summary threats (rapid glacial retreat, acute and remains a potential threat to the species. of Listing Priority Changes in chronic oil spills, commercial gillnet Bright lights make Xantus’s murrelets Candidates.’’ The above summary is fishing, and human disturbance from more susceptible to predation, and they based on information contained in our tour boats), the threats to this species can also become disoriented and files and the petition received on are high in magnitude and imminent. exhausted from continual attraction to October 5, 1995. Additional information Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 2 to bright lights. Chicks can become can be found in the 12–month finding this species. disoriented and separated from their published on June 7, 1998 (63 FR Xantus’s murrelet (Synthliboramphus parents at sea, which could result in 31400). hypoleucus) – The following summary death of the dependent chicks. High- Greater sage-grouse, Columbia Basin is based on information contained in wattage lights on commercial market DPS (Centrocercus urophasianus) – For our files and the petition we received on squid (Loligo opalescens) fishing vessels the reasons discussed below, we have April 16, 2002. The Xantus’s murrelet is used at night to attract squid to the not updated our finding with regard to a small seabird in the Alcid family that surface of the water in the Channel the Columbia Basin DPS of the western subspecies of the greater sage-grouse (C. occurs along the west coast of North Islands was the suspected cause of u. phaios) in this notice. The following America in the United States and unusually high predation on Xantus’s summary is based on information in our Mexico. The species has a limited murrelets by western gulls and barn files and a petition, dated May 14, 1999, breeding distribution, only nesting on owls at Santa Barbara Island in 1999. To requesting the listing of the Washington the Channel Islands in southern address this threat, in 2000, the population of western sage grouse. On California and on islands off the west California Fish and Game Commission May 7, 2001, we concluded that listing coast of Baja California, Mexico. required light shields and a limit of 30,000 watts per boat; it is unknown if the Columbia Basin DPS of western sage Although data on population trends are this is sufficient to reduce impacts. grouse was warranted but precluded by scarce, the population is suspected to Squid fishing has not occurred at a higher priority listing actions (66 FR have declined greatly over the last particularly noticeable level near any of 22984); this DPS was historically found century, mainly due to introduced the colonies in the Channel Islands in northern Oregon and central predators such as rats (Rattus sp.) and since 1999; however, this remains a Washington. The Service subsequently feral cats (Felis catus) to nesting islands, potential future threat. received two petitions requesting the with extirpations on three islands in A proposal to build a liquid natural listing of the entire ranges of what the Mexico. A dramatic decline (up to 70 gas (LNG) facility 600 meters (1,969 feet) petitions called the western and eastern percent) from 1977 to 1991 was detected off the Coronados Islands in Baja subspecies of greater sage-grouse, dated at the largest nesting colony in southern California, Mexico, was considered a January 24 and July 3, 2002, California, possibly due to high levels of potential major threat to the species. respectively. The petition involving the predation on eggs by the endemic deer This island contains one of the largest western sage-grouse requested listing mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus nesting populations of Xantus’s the subspecies in northern California elusus). Identified threats include murrelets in the world. Potential through Oregon and Washington introduced predators at nesting impacts of this facility to the nesting (including the Columbia Basin DPS, for colonies, oil spills and oil pollution, colony included bright lights at night which we had already concluded listing reduced prey availability, human from the facility and visiting tanker was warranted but precluded), as well disturbance, and impacts related to vessels, noise from the facility or from as any western sage-grouse still artificial light pollution. helicopters visiting the facility, and the occurring in parts of Idaho. Although substantial declines in the threat of oil spills associated with In evaluating the two petitions, we Xantus’s murrelet population likely visiting tanker vessels. However, communicated with recognized sage- occurred over the last century, some of Chevron announced in March 2007 that grouse experts, and discovered there the largest threats are being addressed, they have abandoned plans to develop was disagreement as to the taxonomic and, to some degree, ameliorated. this facility and withdrew their permits. validity of these subspecies of the Declines and extirpations at several There are three proposed LNG facilities greater sage-grouse. Due to this nesting colonies were thought to have in the Channel Islands; however, these disagreement in the scientific been caused by nonnative predators, are early in the complex and long-term community, the we evaluated the which have been removed from many of planning processes, and it is possible available information and concluded the islands where they once occurred. that none of these facilities will be built. that the eastern and western subspecies Most notably, since 1994, Island In addition, none of them are directly designations for greater sage-grouse are Conservation and Ecology Group has adjacent to nesting colonies, where their inappropriate given current taxonomic systematically removed rats, cats, and impacts would be expected to be more standards, which also meant they were dogs from every murrelet nesting colony significant. not listable entities under the Act. We in Mexico, with the exception of cats The LNG facility off the Coronados also concluded that the eastern and and dogs on Guadalupe Island. In 2002, Islands was considered to be an western populations did not constitute rats were eradicated from Anacapa imminent threat of high magnitude, DPSs of the greater sage-grouse. Island in southern California, which has which resulted in a previous LPN of 2. Therefore, we published findings that resulted in improvements in The remaining threats to the species are the petitions did not present substantial reproductive success at that island. In of high magnitude since they have the information indicating that what the southern California, there are also plans potential to result in mortality for a petitions had identified as the western to remove rats from San Miguel Island, large portion of the species’ range. or eastern subspecies may be warranted and to restore nesting habitat on Santa However, the threats are nonimminent for listing under the Act (68 FR 6500 Barbara Island through the Montrose since they are not currently occurring at and 69 FR 933, respectively). The Settlements Restoration Project, which most of the murrelet nesting sites. Institute for Wildlife Protection filed a

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court complaint, dated June 6, 2003, other nesting areas. The available large-scale efforts to control nonnative challenging the merits of our 90–day information indicates that distinct predators in the Hawaiian Islands. The finding on the petition to list the populations of band-rumped storm- threats are imminent because they are western subspecies. On August 10, petrels are definable and that the ongoing, and they are of a high 2004, a U.S. District Court judge ruled Hawaiian population is distinct based magnitude because they can in favor of the Service and dismissed on geographic and distributional significantly affect the survival of this the plaintiff’s case. An appeal, dated isolation from other band-rumped DPS. Therefore, we assign this distinct November 24, 2004, was filed by the storm-petrel populations in Japan, the population segment an LPN of 3. Institute for Wildlife Protection. On Galapagos, and the Atlantic Ocean. A Elfin-woods warbler (Dendroica March 3, 2006, the 9th Circuit Court of population also can be considered angelae) – The following summary is Appeals remanded the 90–day finding discrete if it is delimited by based on information contained in our to the Service on the grounds that we international boundaries across which files. No new information was provided did not provide an adequate basis for exist differences in management control in the petition we received on May 11, concluding that the petition failed to of the species. The Hawaiian population 2004. The elfin woods warbler, is a present substantial information of the band-rumped storm-petrel is the small entirely black and white warbler, indicating the western sage-grouse may only populationwithin U.S. borders or and was at first thought to occur only in be a valid subspecies. The Court did, under U.S. jurisdiction. Loss of the the high elevation dwarf or elfin forests however, uphold our conclusion that Hawaiian population would cause a of Puerto Rico, but it has since been the petitioned entity (western sage- significant gap in the distribution of the found at lower elevations including grouse) does not constitute a DPS of the band-rumped storm-petrel in the shade coffee plantations and secondary greater sage-grouse. On April 29, 2008, Pacific, and could result in the complete forests. The elfin woods warbler has we published a substantial 90–day isolation of the Galapagos and Japan been documented from four locations in petition finding which concluded that populations without even occasional Puerto Rico: Luquillo Mountains, Sierra the petition presented substantial genetic exchanges. Therefore, the de Cayey, and the Commonwealth information indicating that listing the population is both discrete and forests of Maricao and Toro Negro. western subspecies of the greater sage- significant, and is therefore a DPS. However, it has not been recorded again grouse may be warranted, announced The band-rumped storm-petrel in Toro Negro or Cayey, since Hurricane that we were initiating a status review, probably was common on all of the Hugo in 1989. In 2003 and 2004, and requested relevant information from main Hawaiian Islands when surveys for the elfin-woods warbler in the public (73 FR 23170). We will Polynesians arrived about 1,500 years the Carite Commonwealth Forest, Toro publish an updated finding addressing ago, based on storm-petrel bones found Negro Forest, Guilarte Forest, Bosque the Columbia Basin DPS in the Federal in middens on the island of Hawaii and del Pueblo, Maricao Forest and the Register after completing our status in excavation sites on Oahu and Caribbean National Forest, only review and 12–month petition finding Molokai. Nesting colonies of this detected the species in the latter two regarding the petition to list the western species in the Hawaiian Islands areas. In the Maricao Commonwealth subspecies of the greater sage-grouse. currently are restricted to remote cliffs Forest, 778 elfin woods warblers were Band-rumped storm-petrel, Hawaii on Kauai and Lehua Island and high- recorded, and in the Caribbean National DPS (Oceanodroma castro) – The elevation lava fields on Hawaii. Forest, 196 elfin-woods warblers were following summary is based on Vocalizations of the species were heard recorded. information contained in our files and in Haleakala Crater on Maui as recently Habitat destruction from expansion of the petition we received on May 8, as 2006; however, no nesting sites have public facilities within the forests, 1989. No new information was provided been located on the island to date. The potential construction of additional in the second petition received on May significant reduction in numbers and telecommunication towers and their 11, 2004. The band-rumped storm-petrel range of the band-rumped storm-petrel maintenance, disruption of breeding is a small seabird that is found in is due primarily to predation by activities from pedestrians and high several areas of the subtropical Pacific nonnative predators introduced by human use areas, switching from shade and Atlantic Oceans. In the Pacific, humans, including the domestic cat to sun coffee plantations, timber there are three widely separated (Felis catus), small Indian mongoose management practices, potential breeding populations – one in Japan, (Herpestes auropunctatus), common predators, and catastrophic natural one in Hawaii, and one in the barn owl (Tyto alba), black rat (R. events such as hurricanes and forest Galapagos. Populations in Japan and the rattus), Polynesian rat (Rattus exulans), fires, threaten this species. Although Galapagos are comparatively large and and Norway rat (R. norvegicus), which these threats are not imminent because number in the thousands, while the occur throughout the main Hawaiian most of the range of the elfins wood Hawaiian birds represent a small, Islands, with the exception of the warbler is within protected lands, the remnant population of possibly only a mongoose, which is not established on magnitude of threat to this species is few hundred pairs. Band-rumped storm- Kauai. Attraction of fledglings to high, because the restricted distribution petrels are most commonly found in artificial lights, which disrupts their and low population numbers cause the close proximity to breeding islands. The night-time navigation, resulting in threats to have a significant impact on three populations in the Pacific are collisions with building and other the species’ survival. Therefore, we separated by long distances across the objects, and collisions with artificial assign a listing priority number of 5 to ocean where birds are not found. structures such as communication this species. Extensive at-sea surveys of the Pacific towers and utility lines are also threats. Reptiles have revealed a broad gap in Erosion of nest sites caused by the distribution of the band-rumped storm- actions of nonnative ungulates is a Sand dune lizard (Sceloporus petrel to the east and west of the potential threat in some locations. arenicolus) – We have not updated our Hawaiian Islands, indicating the Efforts are underway in some areas to assessment for this species, as we are distribution of birds in the central reduce light pollution and mitigate the currently developing a proposed listing Pacific around Hawaii is disjunct from threat of collisions, but there are no rule.

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Eastern massasauga rattlesnake Although the CCAAs have decreased the Baird’s pocket gopher (Geomys (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) – The immediacy of some threats in some breviceps), are lost due to vegetative following summary is based on areas, the majority of the threats are succession. The loss and fragmentation information contained in our files. No ongoing or are in areas not covered by of the longleaf pine ecosystem has new information was provided in the a CCAA. As a result, overall these resulted in extant Louisiana pine snake petition received on May 11, 2004. The threats remain an imminent threat to populations that are isolated and small. eastern massasauga is one of three many remaining populations, Trapping and occurrence data indicate recognized subspecies of massasauga, a particularly those inhabiting private the Louisiana pine snake is currently rattlesnake. It occupies shallow lands. We have kept the LPN at 9 for restricted to seven disjunct populations; wetlands and adjacent upland habitat in this subspecies. five of the populations occur on Federal portions of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Black pine snake (Pituophis lands and two occur mainly on private Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New melanoleucus lodingi) – The following industrial timberlands. Current York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, summary is based on information potentially occupied habitat in and Ontario. contained in our files. No new Louisiana and Texas is estimated to be Although the current range of the information was provided in the approximately 163,000 acres, with 53 eastern massasauga resembles the petition we received on May 11, 2004. percent occurring on public lands and subspecies’ historical range, the There are historical records for the black 47 percent in private ownership. geographic distribution has been pine snake from one parish in All remnant Louisiana pine snake Louisiana, 14 counties in Mississippi, populations have been affected by restricted by the loss of the subspecies and 3 counties in Alabama west of the habitat loss and all require active habitat from much of the area within the Mobile River Delta. Black pine snake management. A Candidate Conservation boundaries of that range. Approximately surveys and trapping indicate that this Agreement (CCA) was completed in 40 percent of the counties that were species has been extirpated from 2003 to maintain and enhance historically occupied by the eastern Louisiana and from four counties in potentially occupied habitat on public massasauga no longer support the Mississippi. Moreover, the distribution lands, and to protect known Louisiana subspecies. This subspecies is currently of remaining populations has become pine snake populations. On Federal considered imperiled in every State and highly restricted due to the destruction lands, signatories of the Louisiana pine province which it occupies. Each State and fragmentation of the remaining snake CCA currently conduct habitat and Canadian province across the range longleaf pine habitat within the range of management (i.e., prescribed burning of the eastern massasauga has lost more the subspecies. Most of the known and thinning) that is beneficial to the than 30 percent, and for the majority Mississippi populations are Louisiana pine snake. This proactive more than 50 percent, of their historical concentrated on the DeSoto National habitat management has likely slowed populations. Furthermore, fewer than 35 Forest. Populations occurring on or reversed the rate of Louisiana pine percent of the remaining populations properties managed by State and other snake habitat degradation on many are considered secure. Approximately governmental agencies as gopher portions of Federal lands. The largest 59 percent of the remaining eastern tortoise mitigation banks or wildlife extant Louisiana pine snake population massasauga populations occur wholly or sanctuaries represent the best exists on private industrial timberlands. in part on public land, and Statewide opportunities for long-term survival of Although two conservation areas are and/or site-specific Candidate the subspecies in Alabama. Other managed to benefit Louisiana pine Conservation Agreements with factors affecting the black pine snake snakes on this property, the majority of Assurances (CCAAs) are currently being include vehicular mortality and low the intervening occupied habitat is developed for many of these areas in reproductive rates, which magnify the threatened by land management Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. threats from destruction and activities (habitat conversion to short- In 2004, a Candidate Conservation fragmentation of longleaf pine habitat rotation pine plantations) that decrease Agreement (CCA) with the Lake County and increase the likelihood of local habitat quality. Forest Preserve District in Illinois was extinctions. Due to the imminent threats Three of the remnant Louisiana pine completed. In 2005, a CCA with the of high magnitude caused by the past snake populations may be vulnerable to Forest Preserve District of Cook County destruction of most of the longleaf pine decreased demographic viability or in Illinois was completed. In 2006, a habitat of the black pine snake, and the other factors associated with low CCAA with the Ohio Department of continuing persistent degradation of population sizes and demographic Natural Resources Division of Natural what remains, we assigned an LPN of 3 isolation. Although these remnant Areas and Preserves was completed for to this subspecies. Louisiana pine snake populations are Rome State Nature Preserve in Louisiana pine snake (Pituophis intrinsically vulnerable and thus Ashtabula County. Populations ruthveni) –The following summary is threatened by these factors, it is not expected to be under CCAs and CCAAs based on information contained in our known if they are presently actually have a high likelihood of persisting and files and the petition we received on facing these threats. Because all extant remaining viable. Other populations are July 19, 2000. The Louisiana pine snake populations are currently isolated and likely to suffer additional losses in historically occurred in the fire- fragmented by habitat loss in the matrix abundance and genetic diversity and maintained longleaf pine ecosystem between populations, there is little some will likely be extirpated unless within west-central Louisiana and potential for dispersal among remnant threats are removed in the near future. extreme east-central Texas. Most of the populations or for the natural re- The primary threats to the eastern historical longleaf pine habitat of the colonization of vacant habitat patches. massasauga are habitat modification, Louisiana pine snake has been Thus, the loss of any remnant habitat succession, incompatible land destroyed or degraded due to logging, population is likely to be permanent. management practices, illegal collection fire suppression, roadways, short- Other factors affecting the Louisiana for the pet trade, and human rotation silviculture, and grazing. In the pine snake throughout its range include persecution. Because of the ongoing absence of recurrent fire, suitable low fecundity, which magnifies other effort to protect the subspecies through habitat conditions for the Louisiana threats and increases the likelihood of CCAAs, the threats are moderate overall. pine snake and its primary prey, the local extinctions, and vehicular

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mortality, which may significantly affect southwestern Idaho, eastern Oregon, (68 FR 2283) and our amended 12– Louisiana pine snake populations. northeastern and central Nevada but month petition finding published on While the extent of Louisiana pine local populations within this general June 25, 2007 (72 FR 34657). The snake habitat loss has been great in the area appear to be small and isolated mountain yellow-legged frog inhabits past and much of the remaining habitat from each other. Recent work by the high elevation lakes, ponds, and has been degraded, habitat loss does not researchers in Idaho and Nevada has streams in the Sierra Nevada Mountains represent an imminent threat, primarily documented the loss of historically of California, from near 4,500 feet (ft) because the rate of habitat loss appears known sites, reduced numbers of (1,370 meters (m)) to 12,000 ft (3,650 m). to be declining on public lands. individuals within local populations, The distribution of the mountain However, all populations require active and declines in the reproduction of yellow-legged frog is from Butte and habitat management, and the lack of those individuals. Small, highly Plumas Counties in the north to Tulare adequate habitat remains a threat for fragmented populations, characteristic and Inyo Counties in the south. The several populations. The potential of the majority of existing populations population in the Sierra Nevada is threats to a large percentage of extant of Columbia spotted frogs in the Great discrete and significant and is therefore Louisiana pine snake populations, Basin, are highly susceptible to a DPS. A separate population in coupled with the likely permanence of extinction processes. The populations southern California is already listed as these effects and the species’ low within the Columbia Basin are discrete endangered (67 FR 44382). fecundity and low population sizes and significant, and thus are a DPS. Predation by introduced trout is the (based on capture rates and occurrence Water development, improper best-documented cause of the decline of data), lead us to conclude that the grazing, mining activities and nonnative the Sierra Nevada mountain yellow- threats have significant effect on the species have and continue to contribute legged frog, because it has been survival of the species and therefore to the degradation and fragmentation of repeatedly observed that nonnative remain high in magnitude. Thus, based Columbia spotted frog habitat. Emerging fishes and mountain yellow-legged frogs on nonimminent, high-magnitude fungal diseases such as rarely co-exist. Mountain yellow-legged threats, we assign a listing priority chytridiomycosis and the spread of frogs and trout (native and nonnative) number of 5 to this species. parasites are contributing factors to do co-occur at some sites, but these co- Sonoyta mud turtle (Kinosternon Columbia spotted frog population occurrences probably are mountain sonoriense longifemorale) - The declines throughout portions of its yellow-legged frog populations with following summary is based on range. A 10–year Conservation negative population growth rates in the information contained in our files. No Agreement/Strategy was signed in absence of immigration. To help reverse new information was provided in the September 2003 for both the Northeast the decline of the mountain yellow- petition we received on May 11, 2004. and the Toiyabe subpopulations in legged frog, the Sequoia and Kings The Sonoyta mud turtle occurs in a Nevada. The goals of the Conservation Canyon National Parks have been spring and pond at Quitobaquito Agreements are to reduce threats to removing introduced trout since 2001. Springs on Organ Pipe Cactus National Columbia spotted frogs and their habitat Over 18,000 introduced trout have been Monument in Arizona, and in the Rio to the extent necessary to prevent removed from 11 lakes since the project Sonoyta and Quitovac Spring of Sonora, populations from becoming extirpated started in 2001. The lakes are Mexico. Loss and degradation of stream throughout all or a portion of their completely- to mostly fish-free and habitat from water diversion and historic range and to maintain, enhance, substantial mountain yellow-legged frog groundwater pumping, along with its and restore a sufficient number of population increases have resulted. The very limited distribution, is the primary populations of Columbia spotted frogs California Department of Fish and Game threat to the Sonoyta mud turtle. and their habitat to ensure their (CDFG) has also removed or is in the Sonoyta mud turtles are highly aquatic continued existence throughout their process of removing nonnative trout and depend on permanent water for historic range. Additionally, a from a total of between 10 and 20 water survival. The area of southwest Arizona Candidate Conservation Agreement with bodies in the Inyo, Humboldt-Toiyabe, and northern Sonora where the Sonoyta Assurances was completed in 2006 for Sierra, and El Dorado National Forests. mud turtle occurs is one of the driest the Owyhee subpopulation at Sam In the El Dorado National Forest golden regions of the southwest. Due to Noble Springs, Idaho. While some trout were removed from Leland Lakes, continuing drought, irrigated threats (habitat modification and and attempts have been made to remove agriculture, and development in the fragmentation, nonnative species, trout from two sites near Gertrude Lake region, surface water in the Rio Sonoyta inadequate regulatory mechanisms, and and a tributary of Cole Creek; no data can be expected to dwindle further and climate change) to the species and its showing increase in mountain yellow- therefore have a significant impact on habitat occur rangewide but at various legged frogs at these sites was available. the survival of this subspecies which intensities, other threats (disease and In California, chytridiomycosis, more may also be vulnerable to aerial mining) only impact local populations; commonly known as chytrid fungus, has spraying of pesticides on nearby overall, the magnitude of the threats is been detected in many amphibian agricultural fields. We retained an LPN moderate. Based on ongoing, and species, including the mountain yellow- of 3 for this subspecies because threats therefore, imminent threats of moderate legged frog within the Sierra Nevada. are of a high magnitude and continue to magnitude, we assigned a listing Recent research has shown that this date, and therefore, are imminent. priority number of 9 to this Distinct pathogenic fungus is widely distributed Population Segment of the Columbia throughout the Sierra Nevada, and that Amphibians spotted frog. infected mountain yellow-legged frogs Columbia spotted frog, Great Basin Mountain yellow-legged frog, Sierra die soon after metamorphosis. Several DPS (Rana luteiventris) – The following Nevada DPS (Rana muscosa) - The infected and uninfected populations summary is based on information following summary is based on were monitored in Sequoia and Kings contained in our files and the petition information contained in our files and Canyon National Parks over multiple we received on May 1, 1989. Currently, the petition received on February 8, years, documenting dramatic declines Columbia spotted frogs appear to be 2000. Also see our 12–month petition and extirpations in infected but not in widely distributed throughout finding published on January 16, 2003 uninfected populations. In the summer

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of 2005, 39 of 43 populations assayed in predators, and poor water quality. agreement will be effective in Yosemite National Park were positive Additional threats to the species are eliminating or reducing the threats to for chytrid fungus. predation by nonnative fish and the point that the relict leopard frog can The current distribution of the Sierra introduced bullfrogs; competition with be removed from candidate status. Nevada mountain yellow-legged frog is bullfrogs for habitat; and diseases, such However, because of these conservation restricted primarily to publicly managed as oomycete water mold Saprolegnia efforts the magnitude of existing threats lands at high elevations, including and chytrid fungus infections. The has been reduced to low to moderate. streams, lakes, ponds, and meadow magnitude of threat is high for this Most populations of the relict leopard wetlands located on national forests, species because this wide range of frog face one or more threats which may including wilderness and non- threats to both individuals and their be long-term in timing and duration. wilderness on the forests, and national habitats could seriously reduce or However, no populations are currently parks. In several areas where detailed eliminate any of these isolated threatened by disease or any proposed studies of the effects of chytrid fungus populations and further reduce the human activity that would reduce the on the mountain yellow-legged frog are species’ range and potential survival. numbers and distribution of any given ongoing, substantial declines have been Habitat restoration and management population. Since the threats are not observed over the past several years. For actions have not prevented a decline in currently occurring, they are example, in 2007 surveys in Yosemite the reproductive rates in some nonimminent. We assigned an LPN of National Park, mountain yellow-legged populations. The threats are imminent 11 to this species. frogs were not detectable at 37 percent because each population is faced with Ozark hellbender (Cryptobranchus of 285 sites where they had been multiple ongoing and potential threats alleganiensis bishopi) – We have not observed in 2000-2002; in 2005 in as identified above. Therefore, we retain updated our assessment for this species, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National an LPN of 2 for the Oregon spotted frog. as we are currently developing a Parks, mountain yellow-legged frogs proposed listing rule. Relict leopard frog (Rana onca) – The were not detected at 54 percent of sites Austin blind salamander (Eurycea following summary is based on where they had been recorded 3-8 years waterlooensis) – Austin blind information contained in our files and earlier. A compounding effect of salamander (Eurycea waterlooensis) – the petition we received on May 9, disease-caused extinctions of mountain The following summary is based on 2002. Relict leopard frogs are currently yellow-legged frogs is that information contained in our files. No known to occur only in two general recolonization may never occur, because new information was provided in the streams connecting extirpated sites to areas in Nevada: near the Overton Arm petition received on May 11, 2004. The extant populations now contain area of Lake Mead, and Black Canyon Austin blind salamander is known to introduced fishes, which act as barriers below Lake Mead. These two areas occur in and around three of the four to frog movement within comprise a small fraction of the spring sites that comprise the Barton metapopulations. The most recent historical distribution of the species, Springs complex in the City of Austin, assessment of the species status in the which included springs, streams, and Travis County, Texas. Primary threats to Sierra Nevada indicates that mountain- wetlands within the Virgin River this species are degradation of water yellow legged frogs occur at less than 8 drainage downstream from the vicinity quality due to expanding urbanization. percent of the sites from which they of Hurricane, Utah; along the Muddy The Austin blind salamander depends were historically observed. A group of River, Nevada; and along the Colorado on a constant supply of clean water in prominent scientists further suggest a 10 River from its confluence with the the Edwards Aquifer discharging from percent decline per year in the number Virgin River downstream to Black Barton Springs for its survival. of remaining Rana mucosa populations. Canyon below Lake Mead, Nevada and Urbanization dramatically alters the Based on threats that are imminent Arizona. Suggested factors contributing normal hydrologic regime and water (because they are ongoing) and high- to the decline of the species include quality of an area. Increased impervious magnitude (because they affect the alteration of aquatic habitat due to cover caused by development increases survival of the DPS rangewide), we agriculture and water development, the quantity and velocity of runoff that continue to assign the population of including regulation of the Colorado leads to erosion and greater pollution mountain yellow-legged frog in the River, and the introduction of exotic transport. Pollutants and contaminants Sierra Nevada an LPN of 3. aquatic species which potentially prey that enter the Edwards Aquifer are Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) - on the relict leopard frog and may discharged in salamander habitat at The following summary is based on compete for food and cover sites. In Barton Springs and have serious information contained in our files and 2005, the National Park Service, in morphological and physiological effects the petition we received on May 4, cooperation with the Service and to the salamander. 1989. Historically, the Oregon spotted various other Federal, State, and local The Texas Commission on frog ranged from British Columbia to the partners, developed a conservation Environmental Quality adopted the Pit River drainage in northeastern agreement and strategy which is Edwards Rules in 1995 and 1997, which California. Based on surveys of intended to improve the status of the require a number of water quality historical sites, the Oregon spotted frog species through prescribed management protection measures for new is now absent from at least 76 percent actions and protection. Conservation development occurring in the recharge of its former range. The majority of the actions identified for implementation in and contributing zones of the Edwards remaining Oregon spotted frog the agreement and strategy include Aquifer. However, Chapter 245 of the populations are small and isolated. captive rearing tadpoles for Texas Local Government Code permits The threats to the species’ habitat translocation and refugium populations, ‘‘grandfathering’’ of state regulations. include development, livestock grazing, habitat and natural history studies, Grandfathering allows developments to introduction of nonnative plant species, habitat enhancement, population and be exempted from any new local or state vegetation succession, changes in habitat monitoring, and translocation. requirements for water quality controls hydrology due to construction of dams Conservation efforts are proceeding and impervious cover limits if the and alterations to seasonal flooding, under the agreement, but, additional developments were planned prior to the lack of management of exotic vegetation time is needed to determine whether the implementation of such regulations. As

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a result of the grandfathering law, very since 1991. Robertson Springs are on Canyon area (Fresno County). The few developments have followed these private land and access to the site has historic elevational range of Yosemite ordinances. New developments are still not been granted. The last survey at toads is 1,460 to 3,630 m (4,790 to obligated to comply with regulations Robertson Springs was in the early 11,910 ft). that were applicable at the time when 1990s. The threats currently facing the project applications for development Primary threats to this species are Yosemite toad include cattle grazing, were first filed. In addition, it is habitat modification and degradation of timber harvesting, recreation, disease, significant that even if they were water quality due to expanding and climate change. Inappropriate followed with every new development, urbanization. The Salado salamander grazing has shown to cause loss in these ordinances do not span the entire depends on a constant supply of clean vegetative cover and destruction of peat watershed for Barton Springs. water from the Northern Segment of the layers in meadows, which lowers the Consequently, development occurring Edwards Aquifer for its survival. groundwater table and summer flows. outside these jurisdictions can have Pollutants and contaminants that enter This may increase the stranding and negative consequences on water quality the Edwards Aquifer discharge in mortality of tadpoles, or make these and thus have an impact on the species. salamander habitat and have areas completely unsuitable for Water quality impacts threaten the morphological and physiological effects Yosemite toads (Martin 2002). Grazing continued existence of the Austin blind on the salamander. We do not know can also degrade or destroy moist salamander by altering physical aquatic how likely spills are to occur within the upland areas the Yosemite toad use as habitats and the food sources of the contributing watersheds of the springs non-breeding habitat and it can collapse salamander. We consider the threats to that support this species. However, rodent burrows the Yosemite toads use be imminent because urbanization is several groundwater contamination as cover and hibernation sites. Timber ongoing and continues to expand over incidents have occurred within Salado harvesting and associated road the Barton Springs Segment of the salamander habitat in recent years. The development could severely alter the Edwards Aquifer and water quality salamander is reasonably expected to be terrestrial environment and result in the continues to degrade. While the City of vulnerable to catastrophic hazardous reduction and occasional extirpation of Austin and many other partners are materials spills, groundwater amphibian populations in the Sierra actively working on conservation of the contamination from the Northern Nevada. These habitat gaps may act as Barton Springs salamander, and the Segment of the Edwards Aquifer, and dispersal barriers and contribute to the Austin blind salamander could benefit impacts to its surface habitat. In from all of the ongoing conservation addition, because Big Boiling Springs is fragmentation of Yosemite toad habitat actions that are being conducted for the located near Interstate 35 and in the and populations. Trails (foot, horse, Barton Springs salamander, these efforts center of the city, increasing traffic and bicycle, or off-highway motor vehicle) have not yet been successful in urbanization is likely to increase rather compact soil in riparian habitat, which improving water quality. In addition, than decrease the threats of increases erosion, displaces vegetation, the existence of the species continues to contamination from spills, higher levels and can lower the water table. be threatened by hazardous chemical of impervious cover, and subsequent Trampling or the collapsing of rodent spills within the Barton Springs impacts to groundwater. These threats burrows by recreationists, pets, and Segment of the Edwards Aquifer, which significantly affect the survival of this vehicles could lead to direct mortality of could result in direct mortality. Because species, and groundwater contamination all life stages of the Yosemite toad and the Austin blind salamander is known and impact to surface habitat are disrupt their behavior. Various diseases from only three clustered spring sites ongoing. Moreover, we do not have have been confirmed in Yosemite toads. and must rely on clear, clean spring information that the magnitude or Mass die-offs of amphibians have been discharges from the Edwards Aquifer for imminence of the threats to the species attributed to: chytrid fungal infections its survival, degraded water quality has changed since our previous of metamorphs and adults; Saprolegnia poses a threat to the entire population, assessment when we concluded there fungal infections of eggs; iridovirus and is therefore a high–magnitude are ongoing, and therefore, imminent infection of larvae, metamorphs, or threat. Thus, we retain an LPN of 2 for threats of a high magnitude. Therefore adults; and bacterial infections. this species. we continue to assign an LPN of 2 to However, recent surveys in Yosemite Georgetown salamander (Eurycea this species. National Park have found that the park naufragia) – See above in ‘‘Summary of Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus) – The populations are not currently infected Listing Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ following summary is based on with chytrid fungus. Yosemite toads The above summary is based on information contained in our files and probably are exposed to a variety of information contained in our files. No the petition we received on April 3, pesticides and other chemicals new information was provided in the 2000. See also our 12–month petition throughout their range. Environmental petition we received on May 11, 2004. finding published on December 10, 2002 contaminants could negatively affect the Salado salamander (Eurycea (67 FR 75834). Yosemite toads are most species by causing direct mortality; chisholmensis) – The following likely to be found in areas with thick suppressing the immune system; summary is based on information meadow vegetation or patches of low disrupting breeding behavior, contained in our files. No new willows near or in water, and use rodent fertilization, growth or development of information was provided in the burrows for overwintering and young; and disrupting the ability to petition we received on May 11, 2004. temporary refuge during the summer. avoid predation. There is no indication The Salado salamander is historically Breeding habitat includes the edges of that any of these threats in ongoing or known from two spring sites, Big wet meadows, slow flowing streams, planned and the threats are therefore Boiling Springs and Robertson Springs, shallow ponds and shallow areas of nonimminent. In addition, since there near Salado, Bell County, Texas. We lakes. The historic range of Yosemite are a number of substantial populations have received only one anecdotal report toads in the Sierra Nevada occurs from and these threats tend to have localized of a salamander sighting in Big Boiling the Blue Lakes region north of Ebbetts effects, the threats are moderate to low Springs in 2008; prior to that, the Pass (Alpine County) to south of Kaiser in magnitude. We therefore retained an salamander had not been sighted there Pass in the Evolution Lake/Darwin LPN of 11 for the Yosemite toad.

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Black Warrior waterdog (Necturus finding published in the Federal sites within the Pascagoula and Pearl alabamensis) – The following summary Register on May 3, 2006 (71 FR 26007). River drainages in two states ( Louisiana is based on information contained in Arkansas darter (Etheostoma cragini) and Mississippi). Currently, the Pearl our files. No new information was – The following summary is based on darter is considered extirpated from the provided in the petition we received on information contained in our files. No Pearl River drainage and rare in the May 11, 2004. The Black Warrior new information was provided in the Pascagoula River drainage. Since 1983, waterdog is a salamander that inhabits petition we received on May 11, 2004. the range of the Pearl darter has streams above the Fall Line within the The Arkansas darter is a small fish in decreased by 55 percent. Black Warrior River Basin in Alabama. the perch family native to portions of Pearl darters are vulnerable to the There is very little specific locality the Arkansas River basin. The species’ cumulative impacts of a variety of non- information available on the historical range includes sites in extreme point pollution sources, such as distribution of the Black Warrior northwestern Arkansas, southwestern sedimentation and chemicals, and to waterdog since little attention was given Missouri, and northeastern Oklahoma, more localized and concentrated to this species between its description within the Neosho River watershed. It pollution events. The potential of in 1937 and the 1980s. At that time, also occurs in a number of watersheds reduction of the flow rate for the Leaf there were a total of only 11 known and isolated streams in eastern and Pascagoula rivers may be significant historical records from 4 Alabama Colorado, south-central and if the Department of Energy’s Strategic counties. Two of these sites have now southwestern Kansas, and the Cimarron Petroleum Reserve project occurs by been inundated by impoundments. watershed in northwest Oklahoma. The 2014. However, the only current threat Extensive survey work was conducted species is most often found in small to the species is believed to be the in the 1990s to look for additional spring-fed streams with sand substrate steady yet gradual change in river and populations. Currently, the species is and aquatic vegetation. It appears stable tributary geomorphology and hydrology known from 14 sites in 5 counties. at most sites where spring flows persist. over time. The magnitude of this threat Water-quality degradation is the It has declined in areas where spring to Pearl darter is high because even a biggest threat to the continued existence flows have decreased or been gradual change in hydrology can have a of the Black Warrior waterdog. Most eliminated. We estimate that currently significant impact on the survival of the streams that have been surveyed for the there are approximately 135 locality species’ limited and disjunct waterdog showed evidence of pollution occurrences of the Arkansas darter populations. The immediacy of the and many appeared biologically distributed across the 5 States; it was threat is nonimminent, since no known depauperate. Sources of point and found at 29 of 67 sites sampled in 2005- confirmed projects are planned that nonpoint pollution in the Black Warrior 2006. Threats to the species include would have a direct impact on the River Basin have been numerous and stream dewatering resulting from species, and the decline of water quality widespread. Pollution is generated from groundwater pumping in the western is slow and gradual. In addition, efforts inadequately treated effluent from portion of the species’ range, and are underway to improve habitat by industrial plants, sanitary landfills, potential development pressures in reducing these threats and to increase sewage treatment plants, poultry portions of its eastern range. Spills and and augment the numbers of Pearl operations, and cattle feedlots. Surface runoff from confined animal feeding darters by husbandry. Therefore, we mining represents another threat to the operations also potentially affect the assign this species an LPN of 5. biological integrity of waterdog habitat. species range-wide. The magnitude of Rush darter (Etheostoma Runoff from old, abandoned coal mines threats facing this species is moderate to phytophilum) – We have not updated generates pollution through low, given the number of different our assessment for this species, as we acidification, increased mineralization, locations where the species occurs and are currently developing a proposed and sediment loading. The North River, the fact that no single threat or listing rule. Locust Fork, and Mulberry Fork, all combination of threats is working to Yellowcheek darter (Etheostoma streams that this species inhabits, are on affect more than a portion of the wide- moorei) – The following summary is the Environmental Protection Agency’s spread population occurrences. Overall, based on information from our files. No list of impaired waters. An additional the threats are not imminent since new information was provided in the threat to the Black Warrior waterdog is groundwater pumping is declining and petition we received on May 11, 2004. the creation of large impoundments that development, spills, runoff are not The yellowcheek darter is endemic to have flooded thousands of square currently affecting the species four headwater tributaries of the Little hectares (acres) of its habitat. These rangewide. Thus, we are retaining an Red River in Arkansas. It is vulnerable impoundments are likely marginal or LPN of 11 for the Arkansas darter. to alterations in physical habitat unsuitable habitat for the salamander. Cumberland darter (Etheostoma characteristics such as the While the water-quality threat is susanae) – We have not updated our impoundment of Greers Ferry Reservoir, pervasive and problematic, the overall assessment for this species, as we are channel maintenance in the Archey magnitude of the threat is moderate, as currently developing a proposed listing Fork, increased sedimentation from there has not been a steep rate of decline rule. eroding stream banks and poor riparian in the population of this species. Water Pearl darter (Percina aurora) – The management, and illegal gravel mining. quality degradation in the Black Warrior following summary is based on Factors affecting the remaining basin is ongoing; therefore, the threats information contained in our files. No populations include loss of suitable are imminent. We assigned an LPN of 8 new information was provided in the breeding habitat, habitat and water to this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. quality degradation, population Little is known about the specific isolation due to stretches of unsuitable Fishes habitat requirements or natural history habitat between populations, and severe Headwater chub (Gila nigra) – See of the Pearl darter. Pearl darters have population declines exacerbated by above in ‘‘Summary of Listing Priority been collected from a variety of river/ stochastic drought conditions. A 2004- Changes in Candidates.’’ The above stream attributes, mainly over gravel 2005 threats assessment by Service summary is based on information bottom substrate. This species is personnel documented occurrences of contained in our files and the 12–month historically known only from localized the aforementioned activities

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(impoundment, channel maintenance, vulnerable to extinction due to genetic several of its major tributaries within poor riparian management, illegal gravel drift, inbreeding depression, and the watershed. It has also been found in mining) and found 52 sites on the random or chance changes to the the Wichita River (within the Red River Middle Fork, 28 sites on the South Fork, environment. The species’ karst habitat Basin) where it may have once naturally 8 sites on Archey Fork, and 1 site in the is located down-gradient of the city of occurred but has since been extirpated. Turkey/Beech/Devils Fork system where Perryville, Missouri, which poses a Current information indicates that the those activities are potentially potential threat if contaminants from population within the Upper Brazos contributing to the decline of the this urban area enter cave streams River drainage (upstream of Possum species. Since the threats assessment occupied by grotto sculpins. Various Kingdom Reservoir) is apparently stable, was completed, natural gas exploration agricultural chemicals, such as while the population within the Middle and development in the Fayetteville ammonia, nitrite/nitrate, chloride, and and Lower Brazos River Basins may Shale formation in north central potassium have been detected at levels only exist in remnant populations in Arkansas has also become a sizeable high enough to be detrimental to aquatic areas of suitable habitat, which may no threat in all watersheds. The Middle life within the Perryville Karst area. longer be viable, representing a Fork was listed as an impaired More than half of the sinkholes in Perry reduction of approximately 68 percent waterbody by the Arkansas Department County contain anthropogenic refuse, of its historical range. of Environmental Quality in 2004 due to ranging from household cleansers and The most significant threat to the excessive bacteria and low dissolved sewage to used pesticide and herbicide existence of the sharpnose shiner is oxygen. containers. As a result, potential water potential reservoir development within Recent studies have documented contamination from various sources of its current range. Additional threats significant declines in the numbers point and non-point pollution poses a include irrigation and water diversion, (60,000 in 1981; 10,300 in 2000) of this significant threat to the grotto sculpin. sedimentation, desalination, industrial fish in the remaining populations and Of the 5 cave systems documented to and municipal discharges, agricultural further range restriction within the have grotto sculpins, populations in one activities, in-stream sand and gravel tributaries (130.4 to 65.0 stream km). As cave system were likely eliminated, mining, and the spread of invasive a result, yellowcheek darter numbers presumably as the result of point-source saltcedar. The current limited declined over a 20–year period by 83 pollution. When the cave was searched distribution of the sharpnose shiner percent in both the Middle Fork and in the spring of 2000, a mass mortality within the Upper Brazos River Basin South Fork, and 60 percent in the of grotto sculpin was noted, and makes it vulnerable to catastrophic Archey Fork, based on a 2000 status subsequent visits to the cave have failed events such as the introduction of survey. No yellowcheek darters have to document a single live grotto sculpin. competitive species or prolonged been found in the Turkey Fork between Thus, the species appears to have drought. State law does not provide 1999 and 2005; the species has suffered a 20 percent decrease in the protection for the sharpnose shiner. The apparently been extirpated in that reach. number of populations from the single magnitude of threat is considered high, The threats are high in magnitude since event. Predatory fish such as common since the major threat of reservoir they significantly affect the ability of carp, fat-head minnow, yellow bullhead, development within the current range of this species to survive and they are not green sunfish, bluegill, and channel the species may render its remaining currently targeted by conservation catfish occur in all of the caves habitat unsuitable throughout its limited distribution. The immediacy of threat is actions. They are also imminent, occupied by grotto sculpin. These because they are ongoing. Therefore, we nonimminent because the most predators may escape surface farm assigned this species a listing priority significant threat – major reservoir ponds that unexpectedly drain through number of 2. projects – are not likely to occur in the sinkholes into the underground cave Chucky madtom (Noturus crypticus) – near future, and there is potential for systems and enter grotto sculpin habitat. We have not updated our assessment for implementing other water supply Although we do not have direct this species, as we are currently options that could preclude reservoir observations of these fish preying on developing a proposed listing rule. development. For these reasons, we grotto sculpins, it is highly likely that Grotto sculpin (Cottus sp., sp. nov.) – assigned an LPN of 5 to this species. The following summary is based on predation is occurring. No regulatory Smalleye shiner (Notropis buccula) – information contained in our files. No mechanisms are in place that would The following summary is based on new information was provided in the provide protection to the grotto sculpin. information contained in our files. No petition we received on May 11, 2004. Ongoing threats from chemical new information was provided in the The Grotto sculpin, a small fish, is contamination of the habitat of the petition we received on May 11, 2004. restricted to two karst areas (limestone grotto sculpin and competition from The smalleye shiner is a small, pallid regions characterized by sink holes, nonnative fish, combined with its low minnow endemic to the Brazos River abrupt ridges, caves, and underground population numbers, increase the Basin in Texas. The population of streams): the Central Perryville Karst likelihood of extinction. Due to the high smalleye shiners within the Upper and Mystery-Rimstone Karst in Perry magnitude of ongoing, and thus Brazos River drainage (upstream of County, southeast Missouri. Data imminent, threats we assigned this Possum Kingdom Reservoir) is supports the genetic distinctness of the species an LPN of 2. apparently stable. However, the shiner grotto sculpin as a species, although it Sharpnose shiner (Notropis may be extirpated downstream from the has not yet been formally described. oxyrhynchus) – The following summary reservoir, representing a reduction of Grotto sculpins have been documented is based on information contained in approximately 54 percent of its in only 5 caves. The current overall our files. No new information was historical range. range of the grotto sculpin has been provided in the petition we received on The most significant threat to the estimated to encompass approximately May 11, 2004. The sharpnose shiner is existence of the smalleye shiner is 260 square kilometers (100 square a small, slender minnow, endemic to potential reservoir development within miles). the Brazos River Basin in Texas. its current range. Additional threats The small population size and Historically, the sharpnose shiner include irrigation and water diversion, endemism of the grotto sculpin make it existed throughout the Brazos River and sedimentation, desalination, industrial

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and municipal discharges, agricultural numbers of Zuni bluehead suckers were particularly in the upper Tennessee activities, in-stream sand and gravel killed during these treatments. River system. Some populations in the mining, and the spread of invasive For several years, the New Mexico Cumberland River system have had saltcedar. The current limited Department of Game and Fish has been recent surveys as well (e.g., Wolf, Little distribution of the smalleye shiner the lead agency to develop a Rivers; Little South Fork; Horse Lick, within the Upper Brazos River Basin conservation plan for Zuni bluehead Buck Creeks). Populations in Buck makes it vulnerable to catastrophic sucker. The Zuni Bluehead Sucker Creek, Little South Fork, Horse Lick events such as the introduction of Recovery Plan was approved by the Creek, Powell River, and North Fork competitive species or prolonged New Mexico State Game Commission Holston River have clearly declined drought. State law does not provide during a State Game Commission over the past two decades. Based on protection for the smalleye shiner. The meeting on December 15, 2004. The recent information, the overall magnitude of threat is considered high recovery plan recommends preservation population of the fluted kidneyshell is since the major threat of reservoir and enhancement of extant populations declining rangewide. At this time, the development within the current range and restoration of historical Zuni species remains in large numbers and is may render its remaining habitat bluehead sucker populations. We viable in just the Clinch River/Copper unsuitable throughout its limited believe the recovery actions prescribed Creek, although smaller, viable distribution. The immediacy of threat is by the State Recovery Plan will reduce populations remain (e.g., Wolf, Little, nonimminent because the most and remove threats to this subspecies; North Fork Holston Rivers; Rock Creek). significant threat – major reservoir however those actions will require Most other populations are of projects – are not likely to occur in the further discussions and authorizations questionable or limited viability, with near future, and there is potential for before they can be implemented. The some on the verge of extirpation (e.g., implementing other water supply ongoing threats including loss of habitat Powell River; Little South Fork; Horse options that could preclude reservoir (loss of both historical and current Lick, Buck, Indian Creeks). Newly development. For these reasons, we habitat from beaver activity), reintroduced populations in the assigned an LPN of 5 to this species. degradation of remaining habitat (from Nolichucky and Duck Rivers will nonnative species and land hopefully begin to reverse the Zuni bluehead sucker (Catostomus development), drought, fire, and climate downward population trend of this discobolus yarrowi) - The following change are high magnitude because they species. The threats are high in summary is based on information significantly affect the survival of the magnitude, since the majority of contained in our files. No new subspecies. We therefore maintained the populations of this species are severely information was provided in the current LPN of 3 for this subspecies. affected by numerous threats petition we received on May 11, 2004. (impoundments, sedimentation, small The range of the Zuni bluehead sucker Clams population size, isolation of has been reduced by over 90%. The Texas hornshell (Popenaias popei) – populations, gravel mining, municipal Zuni bluehead sucker currently See above in ‘‘Summary of Listing pollutants, agricultural runoff, nutrient occupies 9 river miles (15 kilometers) in Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The enrichment, and coal processing 3 areas of New Mexico, and potentially above summary is based on information pollution) which result in mortality occurs in 27 miles (43 kilometers) in the contained in our files. No new and/or reduced reproductive output. Kinlichee drainage of Arizona. information was provided in the Since the threats are ongoing, they are However, the number of occupied miles petition we received on May 11, 2004. imminent. We assigned an LPN of 2 to in Arizona is unknown, and the genetic Fluted kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus this mussel species. composition of these fish is still under subtentum) – The following summary is Neosho mucket (Lampsilis investigation. Zuni bluehead sucker based on information contained in our rafinesqueana) – The following range reduction and fragmentation is files. No new information was provided summary is based on information caused by discontinuous surface water in the petition we received on May 11, contained in our files. No new flow, introduced species, and habitat 2004. The fluted kidneyshell is a information was provided in the degradation from fine sediment freshwater mussel (Unionidae) endemic petition we received on May 11, 2004. deposition. Zuni bluehead sucker to the Cumberland and Tennessee River The Neosho mucket is a freshwater persist in very small creeks that are systems (Cumberlandian Region) in mussel native to Arkansas, Kansas, subject to very low flows and drying Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri, and Oklahoma. The species during periods of drought. Because of Virginia. It requires shoal habitats in has been extirpated from approximately climate change (warmer air free-flowing rivers to survive and 62 percent (835 river miles) of its range, temperatures) stream flow is predicted successfully recruit new individuals most in Kansas and Oklahoma. The to decrease in the Southwest, even if into its populations. Neosho mucket survives in four river precipitation were to increase This species has been extirpated from drainages; however, only two of these, moderately. Warmer winter and spring numerous regional streams and is no the Spring and Illinois Rivers, currently temperatures cause an increased longer found in the State of Alabama. support relatively large populations. fraction of precipitation to fall as rain, Habitat destruction and alteration (e.g., Large portions of the historic range resulting in a reduced snow pack, an impoundments, sedimentation, and have been inundated by the earlier snow melt, and a longer dry pollutants) are the chief factors that construction of at least 11 dams. season leading to decreased stream flow contributed to its decline. The fluted Channel instability downstream of these in the summer and a longer fire season. kidneyshell was historically known dams has further reduced suitable These changes would have a negative from at least 37 streams but is currently habitat and mussel distribution. Range effect on Zuni bluehead sucker. Another restricted to no more than 12 isolated restriction and population declines have major impact to populations of Zuni populations. Current status information occurred due to habitat degradation bluehead sucker was the application of for most of the 12 populations deemed attributed to impoundments, mining, fish toxicants through at least two dozen to be extant is available from recent sedimentation, and agricultural treatments in the Nutria and Pescado periodic sampling efforts (sometimes pollutants. Rapid development and rivers between 1960 and 1975. Large annually) and other field studies, urbanization in the Illinois River

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watershed will likely continue to are currently developing a proposed storms will lead to the extinction of increase sedimentation and listing rule. populations or species that rely on the eutrophication, but populations are Altamaha spinymussel (Elliptio remaining canopy forest. In an effort to currently stable in this river. The threats spinosa) – We have not updated our eradicate the giant African snail to the remaining extant populations assessment for this species, as we are (Achatina fulica), the alien rosy include random catastrophic events currently developing a proposed listing carnivore snail (Euglandia rosea) was (e.g., flood scour, drought, toxic spills), rule. introduced in 1980. The rosy carnivore land use changes within the limited Snails. snail has spread throughout the main range, and genetic isolation and the island of Tutuila. Numerous studies deleterious effects of inbreeding. These Fat-whorled (Bonneville) pondsnail show that the rosy carnivore snail feeds threats have caused the species to be (Stagnicola bonnevillensis) – See above on endemic island snails including the intrinsically vulnerable to extirpation. in ‘‘Summary of Listing Priority Changes sisi, and is a major agent in their Although State regulations limit harvest in Candidates.’’ The above summary is declines and extirpations. At present, of this species, there is little protection based on information contained in our the major threat to long-term survival of for habitat. The threats are high in files. No new information was provided the native snail fauna in American magnitude as they occur and affect in the petition we received on May 11, Samoa is predation by nonnative survival throughout the range of this 2004. predatory snails. These threats are Interrupted rocksnail (Leptoxis species. While some of the threats are ongoing and are therefore imminent. foremani) (=downei) – We have not ongoing and thus, imminent Since the threats occur throughout the updated our assessment for this species, (sedimentation, mining), others are entire range of the species and have a as we are currently developing a nonimminent (habitat reduction and significant effect on the survival of the proposed listing rule for this species. snails, they are of a high magnitude. degradation from reservoir construction, Sisi snail (Ostodes strigatus) – The contaminants, genetic isolation), but on Therefore we assigned this species an following summary is based on LPN of 2. the balance are nonimminent. Thus, we information contained in our files. No assigned a listing priority number of 5 Diamond Y Spring snail new information was provided in the (Pseudotryonia adamantina) and to this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. Alabama pearlshell (Margaritifera Gonzales springsnail (Tryonia The sisi snail is a ground-dwelling circumstriata) – The following summary marrianae) – The following summary is species in the Potaridae family, and is based on information contained in our is based on information contained in endemic to American Samoa. The our files. No new information was files. No new information was provided species is now known from a single in the petition we received on May 11, provided in the petition we received on population on the island of Tutuila, May 11, 2004. Diamond Y Spring snail 2004. The Alabama pearlshell American Samoa. and Gonzales springsnail are small (Margaritifera marrianae) inhabits This species is currently threatened aquatic snails endemic to Diamond Y shallow riffles and pool margins of by habitat loss and modification and by Spring in Pecos County, Texas. The small creeks and streams of southwest predation from nonnative predatory spring and its outflow channel are Alabama. Only three populations of snails. The decline of the sisi in owned and managed by The Nature Alabama pearlshell have been American Samoa has resulted, in part, Conservancy. confirmed to survive during the past 15 from loss of habitat to forestry and These snails are primarily threatened years. One of the three populations has agriculture and loss of forest structure to with habitat loss due to springflow declined significantly over the past few hurricanes and alien weeds that declines from drought and from years, apparently due to increased establish after these storms. All live sisi pumping of groundwater. Additional sedimentation at this location and snails have been found in the leaf litter threats include water contamination possibly other forms of non-point source beneath remaining intact forest canopy. from accidental releases of petroleum (NPS) pollution. Most recent data No snails were found in areas bordering products, as their habitat is in an active suggest that the other two populations agricultural plots or in forest areas that oil and gas field. Also, a nonnative may also be declining. Severe droughts were severely damaged by three aquatic snail (Melanoides sp.) was in 2007 may have also adversely hurricanes (1987, 1990, and 1991). recently introduced into the native affected surviving populations. We Under natural historic conditions, loss snails’ habitat, and may compete with assigned the Alabama pearlshell an LPN of forest canopy to storms did not pose endemic snails for space and resources. of 2 because the NPS pollution is a great threat to the long-term survival The magnitude of threats is high ongoing, and therefore imminent, and of these snails; enough intact forest with because limited distribution of these the vulnerability of small stream habitat healthy populations of snails would narrow endemics makes any impact to continuing NPS pollution, combined support dispersal back into newly from increasing threats (e.g., loss of with the fewer numbers of live mussels regrown canopy forest. However, the springflow, contaminants, and in the three known populations, means presence of alien weeds such as mile-a- nonnative species) likely to result in the that the NPS pollution poses a high- minute vine (Mikania micrantha) may extinction of the species. These species magnitude threat to this species. reduce the likelihood that native forest occur in one location in an arid region Slabside pearlymussel (Lexingtonia will re-establish in areas damaged by currently plagued by drought and dolabelloides) – See above in ‘‘Summary the hurricanes. This loss of habitat to ongoing aquifer withdrawals, making of Listing Priority Changes in storms is greatly exacerbated by the eventual loss of spring flow an Candidates.’’ The above summary is expanding agriculture. Agricultural imminent threat of total habitat loss. based on information contained in our plots on Tutuila have spread from low Thus, we maintain the LPN of 2 for both files. No new information was provided elevation up to middle and some high species. in the petition we received on May 11, elevations, greatly reducing the forest Fragile tree snail (Samoana fragilis) – 2004. area and thus reducing the resilience of The following summary is based on Georgia pigtoe (Pleurobema native forests and its populations of information contained in our files. No hanleyanum) – We have not updated native snails. These reductions also new information was provided in the our assessment for this species, as we increase the likelihood that future petition we received on May 11, 2004.

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A tree-dwelling species, the fragile tree snail, above). On Guam, open massive volcanic explosions of the snail is a member of the Partulidae agricultural fields and other areas prone island beginning in 2003 and still family of snails, and is endemic to the to erosion were seeded with continuing, and the resulting loss of up islands of Guam and Rota (Mariana tangantangan (Leucaena leucocephala) to 95 percent of the vegetation on the Islands). Requiring cool and shaded by the U.S. Military. Tangantangan island. Predation by the alien rosy native forest habitat, the species is now grows as a single species stand with no carnivore snail (Euglandina rosea) and known from 4 populations on Guam and substantial understory. The the alien Manokwar flatworm a single population on Rota. microclimatic condition is dry with (Platydemus manokwari) is a serious This species is currently threatened little accumulation of leaf litter humus threat to the survival of the humped tree by habitat loss and modification and by and is particularly unsuitable as Guam snail (see summary for the fragile tree predation from nonnative predatory tree snail habitat. In addition, native snail, above). The magnitude of threats snails and flatworms. Large numbers of forest cannot reestablish and grow is high because these alien predators Philippine deer (Cervus mariannus) where this alien weed has become cause significant population declines to (Guam and Rota), pigs (Sus scrofra) established. Because all of the threats the humped tree snail rangewide. These (Guam), water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) occur rangewide and have a significant threats are ongoing and thus are (Guam), and cattle (Bos taurus) (Rota) effect on the survival of this snail imminent. Therefore, we assigned this directly alter the understory plant species, they are high in magnitude. The species an LPN of 2. community and overall forest threats are also ongoing and thus are Lanai tree snail (Partulina microclimate, making it unsuitable for imminent. Therefore, we assigned this semicarinata) – The following summary snails. Predation by the alien rosy species an LPN of 2. is based on information contained in carnivore snail (Euglandina rosea) and Humped tree snail (Partula gibba) – our files. No new information was the Manokwar flatworm (Platydemus The following summary is based on provided in the petition we received on manokwari) is a serious threat to the information contained in our files. No May 11, 2004. A tree-dwelling species, survival of the fragile tree snail. Field new information was provided in the P. semicarinata is a member of the observations have established that the petition we received on May 11, 2004. Achatinellidae family of snails. rosy carnivore snail and the Manokwar A tree-dwelling species, the humped Endemic to the island of Lanai, the flatworm will readily feed on native tree snail is a member of the Partulidae species is currently known from 3 Pacific island tree snails, including the family of snails, and was originally populations totaling 29 individuals. Partulidae, such as those of the Mariana known from the island of Guam and the Islands. The rosy carnivore snail has Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana This species is highly threatened caused the extirpation of many Islands (islands of Rota, Aguiguan, throughout its limited range by habitat populations and species of native snails Tinian, Saipan, Anatahan, Sarigan, loss and modification and by predation throughout the Pacific islands. The Alamagan, and Pagan). Most recent from rats. No efforts are being Manokwar flatworm has also surveys revealed a total of 14 undertaken to remove rats in areas contributed to the decline of native tree populations on the islands of Guam, where P. semicarinata occur. The threat snails, in part due to its ability to ascend Rota, Aguiguan, Sarigan, Saipan, from this predator is expected to into trees and bushes that support Alamagan, and Pagan. Although still the continue or increase unless the rats are native snails. Areas with populations of most widely distributed tree snail actively controlled or eradicated. the flatworm usually lack partulid tree endemic in the Mariana Islands, Habitat loss also continues as nonnative snails or have declining numbers of remaining population sizes are often ungulates trample and browse native snails. Because all of the threats occur small. vegetation required by P. semicarinata. rangewide and have a significant effect This species is currently threatened Although the snails are in an area to be on the survival of this snail species, by habitat loss and modification and by fenced, the habitat will continue to be they are high in magnitude. The threats predation from nonnative predatory degraded until the fence is completed are also ongoing and thus are imminent. snails and flat worms. Throughout the and the ungulates have been removed. Therefore, we assigned this species an Mariana Islands, feral ungulates (pigs The small number of individuals and LPN of 2. (Sus scrofa), Philippine deer (Cervus the small number of populations make Guam tree snail (Partula radiolata) – mariannus), cattle (Bos taurus), water this species very susceptible to the The following summary is based on buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), and goats negative effects of stochastic events information contained in our files. No (Capra hircus)) have caused severe such as hurricanes and storms. A new information was provided in the damage to native forest vegetation by population in captivity is protected petition we received on May 11, 2004. browsing directly on plants, causing from the effects of unexpected droughts, A tree-dwelling species, the Guam tree erosion, and retarding forest growth and although the effects of severe storms snail is a member of the Partulidae regeneration. This in turn reduces the may still affect this population as family of snails and is endemic to the quantity and quality of forested habitat evidenced by the loss of snails when a island of Guam. Requiring cool and for the humped tree snail. Currently, severe flood interrupted the power shaded native forest habitat, the species populations of feral ungulates are found supply to the Hawaii Endangered Snail is now known from 22 populations on on the islands of Guam (deer, pigs, and Captive Propagation Lab and Guam. water buffalo), Rota (deer and cattle), temperatures increased within the This species is primarily threatened Aguiguan (goats), Saipan (deer, pigs, environmental chambers containing the by predation from nonnative predatory and cattle), Alamagan (goats, pigs, and snails. In addition, these captive snails snails and flatworms. In addition, the cattle), and Pagan (cattle, goats, and are likely subjected to the same risks of species is also threatened by habitat loss pigs). Goats were eradicated from reduced reproductive vigor and loss of and degradation. Predation by the alien Sarigan in 1998 and the humped tree genetic variability as the snail in the rosy carnivore snail (Euglandina rosea) snail has increased in abundance on wild population. The magnitude of and the alien Manokwar flatworm that island, likely in response to the threats is high because they cause (Platydemus manokwari) is a serious removal of all the goats. However, the significant population declines to threat to the survival of the Guam tree population of humped tree snails on P.semicarinata rangewide. The threats snail (see summary for the fragile tree Anatahan is likely extirpated due to the are also ongoing and thus are imminent.

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Therefore, we assigned this species an snail rangewide. A survey of Aguiguan immediacy of the threats is imminent, LPN of 2. in November 2006 failed to find any live as evidenced by the drastic decline in Lanai tree snail (Partulina variabilis) Langford’s tree snails. These threats are spring flow at Phantom Lake Spring that – The following summary is based on also ongoing and thus are imminent. is currently happening and may information contained in our files. No Therefore, we assigned this species an extirpate these populations in the near new information was provided in the LPN of 2. future. Declining spring flows in San petition we received on May 11, 2004. Newcomb’s tree snail (Newcombia Solomon Spring are also becoming A tree-dwelling species, P. variabilis is cumingi) – The following summary is evident, and will affect that spring site a member of the Achatinellidae family based on information contained in our as well within the foreseeable future. of snails. Endemic to the island of files. No new information was provided Thus, we maintained the LPN of 2 for Lanai, the species is currently known in the petition we received on May 11, both species. from 12 populations totaling 90 2004. The species is endemic to the Tutuila tree snail (Eua zebrina) – The individuals. This species is highly island of Maui, where it is currently following summary is based on threatened throughout its limited range known from a single remaining information contained in our files. No by habitat loss and modification and by population. The greatest threats to new information was provided in the predation from rats. The same Newcomb’s tree snail are the loss of the petition we received on May 11, 2004. description of threats for P. only known remaining population due A tree-dwelling species, the Tutuila tree semicarinata, above, applies to this to predation from rats and the rosy snail is a member of the Partulidae species, including threats to a carnivore snail (Euglandina rosea). family of snails, and is endemic to population in captivity. The magnitude There are no efforts in place to reduce American Samoa. The species is known of threats is high because they result in the threat from the rosy carnivore snail. from 32 populations on the islands of direct mortality or significant Discussions are underway with the Tutuila, Nuusetoga, and Ofu. population declines to P. variabilis private landowner to construct a rat- This species is currently threatened rangewide. The threats are ongoing and proof fence in the area occupied by this by habitat loss and modification and by thus are imminent. Therefore, we snail. Our attempts to raise this species predation from nonnative predatory assigned this species an LPN of 2. in a captive propagation facility have snails and rats. All live Tutuila tree Langford’s tree snail (Partula been unsuccessful. The magnitude of snails were found on understory langfordi) – The following summary is threats is high because they occur vegetation beneath remaining intact based on information contained in our within the last known population of the forest canopy. No snails were found in files. No new information was provided species and result in direct mortality or areas bordering agricultural plots or in in the petition we received on May 11, significant population declines. These forest areas that were severely damaged 2004. A tree-dwelling species, threats are also ongoing and thus are by three hurricanes (1987, 1990, and Langford’s tree snail is a member of the imminent. Therefore, we assigned this 1991). (See summary for the sisi snail, Partulidae family of snails, and is species an LPN of 2. above, regarding impacts of alien weeds known from one population on the Phantom Cave snail (Cochliopa and of the rosy carnivore snail.). Rats island of Aguiguan. This species is texana) and Phantom springsnail (Rattus spp) have also been shown to currently threatened by habitat loss and (Tryonia cheatumi) – The following devastate snail populations, and rat- modification and by predation from summary is based on information chewed snail shells have been found at nonnative predatory snails. In the contained in our files. No new sites where the Tutuila snail occurs. At 1930s, the island of Aguiguan was information was provided in the present, the major threat to the long- mostly cleared of native forest to petition we received on May 11, 2004. term survival of the native snail fauna support sugar cane and pineapple Phantom Cave snail and Phantom in American Samoa is predation by production. The abandoned fields and springsnail are small aquatic snails that nonnative predatory snails and rats. The airstrip are now overgrown with alien occur in three spring outflows in the magnitude of threats is high because weeds. The remaining native forest Toyah Basin in Reeves and Jeff Davis they result in direct mortality or understory has greatly suffered from Counties, Texas. The primary threat to significant population declines to the large and uncontrolled populations of both species is the loss of surface flows Tutuila tree snail rangewide. The threats alien goats and the invasion of weeds. due to declining groundwater levels are also ongoing and thus are imminent. Goats (Capra hircus) have caused severe from drought and pumping for Therefore, we assigned this species an damage to native forest vegetation by agricultural production. Although much LPN of 2. browsing directly on plants, causing of the land immediately surrounding Chupadera springsnail (Pyrgulopsis erosion, and retarding forest growth and their habitat is owned and managed by chupaderae) – We have not updated our regeneration. This in turn reduces the The Nature Conservancy, Bureau of assessment for this species, as we are quantity and quality of forested habitat Reclamation, and Texas Parks and currently developing a proposed listing for Langford’s tree snail. Predation by Wildlife Department, the water which is rule. the alien rosy carnivore snail needed to maintain their habitat, has Elongate mud meadows springsnail (Euglandina rosea) and by the declined due to a reduction in spring (Pyrgulopsis notidicola) – See above in Manokwar flatworm (Platydemus flows, possibly as a result of private ‘‘Summary of Listing Priority Changes in manokwari) (see summary for the fragile groundwater pumping in areas beyond Candidates.’’ The above summary is tree snail, above) is also a serious threat that controlled by these landowners. As based on information contained in our to the survival of Langford’s tree snail. an example, Phantom Lake Spring, one files. No new information was provided All of the threats are occurring of the sites of occurrence, has already in the petition received on May 11, rangewide and no efforts to control or ceased flowing, and aquatic habitat in 2004. eradicate the nonnative predatory snail the spring is supported only by a Gila springsnail (Pyrgulopsis gilae) – species or to reduce habitat loss are pumping system. The magnitude of the The following summary is based on being undertaken. The magnitude of threats is high because spring flow loss information contained in our files and threats is high because they result in would result in complete habitat the petition we received on November direct mortality or significant destruction and permanent elimination 20, 1985. Also see our 12–month population declines to Langford’s tree of all populations of the species. The petition finding published in the

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Federal Register on October 4, 1988 (53 threats overall are nonimminent. The Bubbling Ponds and Page Springs fish FR 38969). The Gila springsnail is an threats are moderate to low magnitude hatcheries include commitments to aquatic species known from 13 because the threats are occurring at low replace lost habitat and to monitor populations in New Mexico. Surveys levels and populations appear to be remaining populations of invertebrates conducted in 2008 may have located stable. Therefore, we retained a listing such as the Page springsnail. A draft two additional populations, but the priority number of 11 for this species. Candidate Conservation Agreement with identification of the species at those Gonzales springsnail (Tryonia Assurances was published and available sites awaits confirmation. Preliminary circumstriata) – See summary above for public review and comment on assessment of springsnail collections under Diamond Y Spring snail January 28, 2008. Based on recent made in 2008 indicates there are (Pseudotryonia adamantina). survey data, it appears that the Page morphological differences between Huachuca springsnail (Pyrgulopsis springsnail is abundant within natural some Gila springsnail populations, thompsoni) – The following is based on habitats and persists in modified which suggests there may be some level information contained in our files. No habitats, albeit at reduced densities. The of genetic divergence or speciation. new information was provided in the magnitude of threats is considered high petition we received on May 11, 2004. The long-term persistence of the Gila because limited distribution of this The Huachuca springsnail inhabits springsnail is contingent upon narrow endemic makes any detrimental approximately 16 springs and cienegas protection of the riparian corridor effects from threats likely to result in at elevations of 4,500 to 7,200 feet in immediately adjacent to the springhead extirpation or extinction. The southeastern Arizona (14 sites) and and springrun. Sites on both private and immediacy of the threat of ground water adjacent portions of Sonora, Mexico (2 Federal lands are subject to levels of withdrawal is uncertain due to sites). The springsnail is typically found recreational use and livestock grazing conflicting information regarding in the shallower areas of springs or imminence. However, overall, the that negatively affect this species, thus cienegas, often in rocky seeps at the placing the long-term survival of the threats are imminent because spring source. Ongoing threats include modification of the species’ habitat is Gila springsnail at risk. Natural events habitat modification and destruction such as drought, forest fire, currently occurring. Therefore, we through catastrophic wildfire, drought, retain an LPN of 2 for the Page sedimentation, and flooding; wetland streamflow alteration, and, potentially, springsnail. habitat degradation by recreational grazing, recreation, military activities, Phantom springsnail (Tyronia bathing in thermal springs; and poor and timber harvest. Overall, the threats cheatumi) – See summary above under watershed management practices are moderate in magnitude because Phantom Cave snail (Cochliopa texana). represent the primary threats to the Gila threats are not occurring throughout the Three Forks springsnail (Pyrgulopsis springsnail. Fire suppression activities range of the species uniformly and not trivialis) – We have not updated our and fire retardant chemicals have all populations would likely be assessment for this species, as we are potentially deleterious effects on this impacted simultaneously by any of the currently developing a proposed listing species, as well. Because several of the known threats. In addition, multiple rule. springs occur on U.S. Forest Service landowners (Forest Service, Fort Insects land, management options for the Huachuca, The Nature Conservancy) are protection of the snail should be including consideration for the Wekiu bug (Nysius wekiuicola) – The possible. However, randomly occurring springsnail or other co-occurring listed following summary is based on events, especially fire and drought, species in their activities. The threats information contained in our files. No could have a major impact on the are ongoing and, thus, imminent. new information was provided in the species. Moderate use by Therefore, we have assigned an LPN of petition we received on May 11, 2004. recreationalists and livestock is ongoing. 8 to this species. The wekiu bug belongs to the true bug If these uses remain at current or lower New Mexico springsnail (Pyrgulopsis family, Lygaeidae, and is endemic to the levels, they will not pose an imminent thermalis) – We have not updated our island of Hawaii. This species only threat to the species. Of greater concern assessment for this species, as we are occurs on the summit of Mauna Kea and is drought, which could affect spring currently developing a proposed listing feeds upon other insect species which discharge and increases the potential for rule. are blown to the summit of this large fire. Although the effect global warming Page springsnail (Pyrgulopsis volcano. The wekiu bug is primarily will have on streams and forests of the morrisoni) – The following summary is threatened by the loss of its habitat from Southwest is unpredictable, mean based on information contained in our astronomy development. In 2004 and annual temperatures in New Mexico files. No new information was provided early 2005, surveys found multiple new have increased by 0.6 degrees per in the petition received on May 11, locations of the wekiu bug on cinder decade since 1970. Higher temperatures 2004. The Page springsnail is known to cones on the Mauna Kea summit. lead to higher evaporation rates which exist only within a complex of springs Several of these cinder cones within the may reduce the amount of runoff and located within an approximately 0.93- Mauna Kea Science Reserve, as well as groundwater recharge. Increased mi (1.5-km) stretch along the west side two cinder cones located in the State Ice temperatures may also increase the of Oak Creek around the community of Age Natural Area Reserve, are not extent of area influenced by drought and Page Springs, and within springs currently undergoing development nor fire. Large fires have occurred in the located along Spring Creek, tributary to are they the site of any planned Gila National Forest and subsequent Oak Creek, Yavapai County, Arizona. development. Thus, the threats, floods and ash flows have severely The primary threat to the Page although ongoing, do not occur across affected aquatic life in streams. springsnail is modification for domestic, the entire range of the wekiu bug. Although some of the threats facing the agricultural, ranching, fish hatchery, Because there are occupied locations species are ongoing and therefore and recreational activities. Many of the that are not subject to the primary threat imminent (such as livestock and springs where the species occurs have of astronomy development, the overall recreational uses), the biggest threats are been subjected to some level of such magnitude of the threat is moderate. The nonimminent (such as fire, drought, and modification. Arizona Game and Fish immediacy of the threats is imminent increased temperatures). Therefore, the Department management plans for the because there are significant parts of the

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wekiu bug’s range where ongoing Wildlife Refuge. The former appears limited amount of occupied habitat, development is occurring. Therefore, we restricted to several hundred ease of accessibility, and the annual life assigned this species an LPN of 8. individuals at most, while the latter cycle of the species, are all factors that Mariana eight spot butterfly likely includes at least 1,500 leave the Sequatchie caddisfly (Hypolimnas octucula mariannensis) - individuals. Capacity to expand at vulnerable to extirpation. Therefore, the The following summary is based on either site or successfully emigrate from magnitude of the threat is high. These information contained in our files. No either site appears to be very low due to threats are gradual and/or not new information was provided in the the sedentary nature of the butterfly and necessarily imminent. Based on high- petition we received on May 11, 2004. isolation of habitats. Captive magnitude, nonimminent threats, we The Mariana eight spot butterfly is a propagation and reintroduction efforts assigned this species a listing priority nymphalid butterfly species that feeds are continuing, but success has yet to be number of 5. upon two host plants, Procris shown. The Miami blue is Clifton cave beetle pedunculata and Elatostema calcareum. predominantly a coastal species, (Pseudanophthalmus caecus) – The Endemic to the islands of Guam and occurring in disturbed and early following summary is based upon Saipan, the species is now known from successional habitats such as the edges information contained in our files. No ten populations on Guam. This species of tropical hardwood hammock, coastal new information was provided in the is currently threatened by predation and berm forest, and along trails and other petition we received on May 11, 2004. parasitism. The Mariana eight spot open sunny areas, and historically in Clifton cave beetle is a small, eyeless, butterfly has extremely high mortality of pine rocklands. These habitats provide reddish-brown predatory insect that eggs and larvae due to predation by larval host plants and adult nectar feeds upon small cave invertebrates. It alien ants and wasps. Because the threat sources that are required to occur in is cave dependent, and is not found of parasitism and predation by close proximity. The primary threats to outside the cave environment. Clifton nonnative insects occurs range-wide the subspecies are the limited cave beetle is only known from two and can cause significant population population size and range, hurricanes, privately owned Kentucky caves. Soon declines to this species, they are high in and mosquito control activities. In after the species was first collected in magnitude. The threats are imminent addition, illegal collection may also 1963 in one cave, the cave entrance was because they are ongoing. Therefore, we pose a threat. The threats are high in enclosed due to road construction. We assigned an LPN of 3 for this subspecies. magnitude because they occur do not know whether the species still Mariana wandering butterfly (Vagrans rangewide and in combination affect the occurs at the original location or if it has egestina) - The following summary is population levels. Except for hurricanes, been extirpated from the site by the based on information contained in our the threats are nonimminent because the closure of the cave entrance. Other files. No new information was provided current range is within a State park and caves in the vicinity of this cave were in the petition we received on May 11, National Wildlife Refuge, where the surveyed for the species during a 1995- 2004. The Mariana wandering butterfly above threats are substantially 1996. Only one additional site was is a nymphalid butterfly species which controlled. Therefore, we assigned the found to support the Clifton Cave beetle. feeds upon a single host plant species, Miami blue a LPN of 6. The limestone caves in which the Maytenus thompsonii. Originally known Clifton cave beetle is found provide a from and endemic to the islands of Sequatchie caddisfly (Glyphopsyche unique and fragile environment that Guam and Rota, the species is now sequatchie) – The following summary is supports a variety of species that have known from one population on Rota. based on information in our files. No evolved to survive and reproduce under This species is currently threatened by new information was provided in the the demanding conditions found in cave alien predation and parasitism. The petition wereceived on May 11, 2004. ecosystems. The limited distribution of Mariana wandering butterfly is likely The Sequatchie caddisfly is known from the species makes it vulnerable to predated on by alien ants and two spring runs that emerge from caves isolated events that would only have a parasitized by native and nonnative in Marion County, Tennessee - Owen minimal effect on the more wide- parasitoids. Because the threat of Spring Branch (the type locality) and ranging insects. Events such as toxic parasitism and predation by nonnative Martin Spring run in the Battle Creek chemical spills, discharges of large insects occurs range-wide and can cause system. In 1998, biologists estimated amounts of polluted water or indirect significant population declines to this population sizes at 500 to 5000 impacts from off-site construction species, they are high in magnitude. individuals for Owen Spring Branch activities, closure of entrances, These threats are imminent because and 2 to 10 times higher at Martin alteration of entrances, or the creation of they are ongoing. Therefore, we Spring, due to the greater amount of new entrances could have serious assigned an LPN of 2 for this species. apparently suitable habitat. In spite of adverse impacts on this species. Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus greater amounts of suitable habitat at the Therefore, the magnitude of threat is thomasi bethunebakeri) – The following Martin Spring run, Sequatchie high for this species. The immediacy of summary is based on information caddisflies are more difficult to find at threat is nonimminent because there are contained in our files and in the petition this site, and in 2001 (the most recent no known projects planned that would we received on June 15, 2000. The survey) the Sequatchie caddisfly was affect the species in the near future. We Miami blue is endemic to south Florida. ‘‘abundant’’ at the Owen Spring Branch therefore have assigned a listing priority Historically, it occurred throughout the location, while only two individuals number of 5 to this species. Florida Keys, north to Hillsborough and were observed at the Martin Spring. Icebox cave beetle Volusia Counties. None were reported to Threats to the Sequatchie caddisfly (Pseudanophthalmus frigidus) – The be found between 1996 and 1999. It is include siltation, point and nonpoint following summary is based upon presently located at two sites in the discharges from municipal and information contained in our files. No Keys. In 1999, a metapopulation was industrial activities and introduction of new information was provided in the discovered at Bahia Honda State Park on toxicants during episodic events. These petition we received on May 11, 2004. Bahia Honda Key and in 2006 a second threats, coupled with the extremely Icebox cave beetle is a small, eyeless, metapopulation was discovered on the limited distribution of the species, its reddish-brown predatory insect that outer islands of Key West National apparent small population size, the feeds upon small cave invertebrates. It

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is not found outside the cave highway. Events such as toxic chemical environment that supports a variety of environment, and is only known from spills, discharges of large amounts of species that have evolved to survive and one privately owned Kentucky cave. polluted water or indirect impacts from reproduce under the demanding The limestone cave in which this off-site construction activities could conditions found in cave ecosystems. species is found provides a unique and adversely affect the species and the cave The species has not been observed since fragile environment that supports a habitat. The magnitude of threat is high 1965, but species experts believe that it variety of species that have evolved to for this species because it is limited in still exists in low numbers. The limited survive and reproduce under the distribution and the threats would have distribution of the species makes it demanding conditions found in cave negative impacts on its continued vulnerable to isolated events that would ecosystems. The species has not been existence. The threats are nonimminent only have a minimal effect on the more observed since it was originally because there are no known projects wide-ranging insects. Events such as collected, but species experts believe planned that would affect the species in toxic chemical spills or discharges of that it may still exist in the cave in low the near future and it receives some large amounts of polluted water, or numbers. The limited distribution of the protection under a cooperative indirect impacts from off-site species makes it vulnerable to isolated management agreement. We therefore construction activities, closure of events that would only have a minimal have assigned a listing priority number entrances, alteration of entrances, or the effect on the more wide-ranging insects. of 5 to this species. creation of new entrances could have Events such as toxic chemical spills or Louisville cave beetle serious adverse impacts on this species. discharges of large amounts of polluted (Pseudanophthalmus troglodytes) – The The magnitude of threat is high for this water, or indirect impacts from off-site following summary is based upon species, because its limited numbers construction activities, closure of information contained in our files. No mean that any threats could affect its entrances, alteration of entrances, or the new information was provided in the continued existence. The immediacy of creation of new entrances, could have petition we received on May 11, 2004. threat is nonimminent because there are serious adverse impacts on this species. The Louisville cave beetle is a small, no known projects planned that would Therefore, the magnitude of threat is eyeless, reddish-brown predatory insect affect the species in the near future. We high for this species because it is that feeds upon cave invertebrates. It is therefore have assigned an LPN of 5 to limited in distribution and the threats not found outside the cave environment, this species. would result in mortality or reduced and is only known from two privately Taylor’s (Whulge, Edith’s) reproductive capacity. The immediacy owned Kentucky caves. The limestone checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas of threat is nonimminent because there caves in which this species is found editha taylori) – The following summary are no known projects planned that provide a unique and fragile is based on information contained in would affect the species in the near environment that supports a variety of our files and in the petition received on future. We therefore have assigned an species that have evolved to survive and December 11, 2002. Historically, the LPN of 5 to this species. reproduce under the demanding Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly was conditions found in cave ecosystems. known from 70 locations: 23 in British Inquirer cave beetle The limited distribution of the species Columbia, 34 in Washington, and 13 in (Pseudanophthalmus inquisitor) – The makes it vulnerable to isolated events Oregon. Based on surveys during the following summary is based upon that would only have a minimal effect 2008 flight period, 11 populations are information contained in our files. No on the more wide-ranging insects. now known, with a total of about 2,500 new information was provided in the Events such as toxic chemical spills, to 3,000 individuals observed petition we received on May 11, 2004. discharges of large amounts of polluted rangewide. Currently, eight populations The inquirer cave beetle is a fairly water or indirect impacts from off-site are known from Washington, two in the small, eyeless, reddish-brown predatory construction activities, closure of Willamette Valley of Oregon and one on insect that feeds upon small cave entrances, alteration of entrances, or the Denman Island, British Columbia, invertebrates. It is not found outside the creation of new entrances could have Canada. cave environment, and is only known serious adverse impacts on this species. Threats include degradation and from one privately owned Tennessee The magnitude of threat is high for this destruction of native grasslands due to cave. The limestone cave in which this species, because it is limited in agriculture; residential and commercial species is found provides a unique and distribution and the threats would have development; encroachment by fragile environment that supports a negative impacts on the species. The nonnative plants; succession from variety of species that have evolved to immediacy of threat is nonimminent grasslands to native shrubs and trees; survive and reproduce under the because there are no known projects and fire. The grassland ecosystem on demanding conditions found in cave planned that would affect the species in which this subspecies depends requires ecosystems. The species was last the near future. We therefore have annual management to maintain observed in 2006. The limited assigned an LPN of 5 to this species. suitable grassland habitat for the distribution of the species makes it Tatum Cave beetle species. The application of Bacillus vulnerable to isolated events that would (Pseudanophthalmus parvus) – The thuringiensis var. kurstake (Btk) for only have a minimal effect on the more following summary is based upon Asian gypsy moth control was routinely wide-ranging insects. The area around information contained in our files. No applied in Pierce County, Washington the only known site for the species is in new information was provided in the for many years. This pesticide is a rapidly expanding urban area. The petition we received on May 11, 2004. documented to have deleterious effects entrance to the cave is protected by the Tatum Cave beetle is a small, eyeless, on non-target lepidopteron species, landowner through a cooperative reddish-brown predatory insect that including all moths and butterflies. management agreement with the feeds upon cave invertebrates. It is not Because of the timing and close Service, The Nature Conservancy and found outside the cave environment, proximity of the Btk application to Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency; and is only known from one privately native prairies where Taylors’ however, a sinkhole that drains into the owned Kentucky cave. The limestone checkerspot adults, or their larvae, were cave system is located away from the cave in which this species is found historically known to occur, it is likely protected entrance and is near a provides a unique and fragile that the spraying contributed to the

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extirpation of the subspecies at three threatened by predation from alien individuals of this species, occur locations in Pierce County, Washington. aquatic species such as fish and throughout its range and are expected to Threats also include the loss of predacious insects and habitat loss continue or increase unless efforts at prairies to development or the through dewatering of streams and control or eradication are undertaken. In conversion of native grasslands to invasion by nonnative plants. Nonnative additions, because of the limited agriculture; the threat of vehicle and fish and insects prey on the naiads of distribution and small population of the foot traffic that crushes larvae and larval the damselfly, and loss of water reduces species, any of the threats would host plants on roads where host plants the amount of suitable naiad habitat significantly impair survival of the have become established, thus acting as available. Invasive plants (e.g., species. The threats are also imminent, a mortality sink at north Olympic California grass (Brachiaria mutica)) because they are ongoing. No known Peninsula sites. Other important threats also contribute to loss of habitat by conservation measures have been taken include changes to the structure and forming dense, monotypic stands that to date to specifically address these composition of prairie habitat brought completely eliminate any open water. threats, and we have therefore assigned on by the invasion of shrubs and trees Nonnative fish and plants are found in this species an LPN of 2. (Scot’s broom and Douglas-fir) or all the streams the orangeblack Stephan’s riffle beetle (Heterelmis nonnative pasture grasses that quickly damselfly occur in, except the Oahu stephani) – The following summary is invade onto prairies when processes location, where there are no nonnative based on information contained in our like fire, or its surrogate mowing, are not fish. We assigned this species an LPN of files. No new information was provided implemented. These changes to prairie 8 because, although the threats are in the petition received on May 11, habitat threaten Taylor’s checkerspot by ongoing and therefore imminent, they 2004. The Stephan’s riffle beetle is an degrading prairie habitat and making it affect the survival of the species in endemic riffle beetle found in limited unsuitable for the butterfly. The threats varying degrees throughout the range of spring environments within the Santa that lead to habitat degradation and loss the species and are of moderate Rita Mountains, Pima County, Arizona. are ubiquitous, occurring rangewide, magnitude. The beetle is known from Sylvester and affect the survival of the subspecies. Pacific Hawaiian damselfly Springs in Madera Canyon, within the Therefore, they are high in magnitude. (Megalagrion pacificum) – We have not Coronado National Forest. These springs The threats are imminent because they updated our assessment for this species, are typical isolated, mid-elevation, are ongoing and occur simultaneously at as we are currently developing a permanently saturated, spring-fed all of the known locations for the proposed listing rule. aquatic climax communities commonly subspecies. Based on the high Picture-wing fly (Drosophila digressa) referred to as cienegas. Threats are magnitude and the imminent nature of – The following summary is based on largely from habitat modification (from threats, we assigned the Taylor’s information contained in our files. No recreational activities in the springs and checkerspot butterfly a listing priority new information was provided in the changes in water chemistry due to number of 3. petition we received on May 11, 2004, catastrophic natural disasters such as Blackline Hawaiian damselfly but new information was provided by fires or floods). The threats to be of (Megalagrion nigrohamatum one Drosophila expert in 2006. This moderate to low magnitude based on nigrolineatum) – We have not updated picture-wing fly, a member of the family our current knowledge of the our assessment for this species, as we Drosophilidae, feeds only upon species permanence of threats and the are currently developing a proposed of Charpentiera, and is endemic to the likelihood that the species will persist listing rule. Hawaiian Island of Hawaii. Never in areas that are unaffected by the Crimson Hawaiian damselfly abundant in number of individuals threats. Because the threats from (Megalagrion leptodemas) – We have observed, D. digressa was originally recreational activities are currently not updated our assessment for this known from 5 population sites and may occurring, they are imminent. Therefore, species, as we are currently developing now be limited to as few as 1 or 2 sites. we assigned a LPN of 8 to the Stephan’s a proposed listing rule. Due to the small population size of the riffle beetle. Flying earwig Hawaiian damselfly species and its small known habitat Casey’s junebeetle (Dinacoma caseyi) (Megalagrion nesiotes) – We have not area, Drosophila researchers believe this – We have not updated our assessment updated our assessment for this species, species and its habitat are particularly for this species, as we are currently as we are currently developing a vulnerable to a myriad of threats. Feral developing a proposed listing rule. proposed listing rule. ungulates (pigs, goats, and cattle) Dakota skipper (Hesperia dacotae) – Oceanic Hawaiian damselfly degrade and destroy D. digressa host The following summary is based on (Megalagrion oceanicum) – We have not plants and habitat by directly trampling information contained in our files, updated our assessment for this species, plants, facilitating erosion, and including information from the petition as we are currently developing a spreading nonnative plant seeds. received on May 12, 2003. The Dakota proposed listing rule. Nonnative plants degrade host plant skipper is a small- to mid-sized butterfly Orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly habitat and compete for light, space, and that inhabits high-quality tallgrass and (Megalagrion xanthomelas) – The nutrients. Direct predation of D. mixed grass prairie in Minnesota, North following summary is based on digressa by nonnative social insects, Dakota, South Dakota, and the provinces information contained in our files. No particularly yellow jacket wasps, is also of Manitoba and Saskatchewan in new information was provided in the a serious threat. Additionally, this Canada. The species is presumed to be petition we received on May 11, 2004. species faces competition at the larval extirpated from Iowa and Illinois and The orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly is stage from nonnative tipulid flies, from many sites within occupied States. a stream-dwelling species endemic to which feed within the same portion of The species is threatened by the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai, Oahu, the decomposing host plant area conversion of its native prairie habitat Molokai, Maui, Lanai, and Hawaii. The normally occupied by the D. digressa for agricultural purposes, overgrazing, species no longer is found on Kauai, and larvae during their development with a invasive species, gravel mining, is now restricted to 16 populations on resulting reduction in available host inbreeding, population isolation, and, in the islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, plant material. The threats to the native some cases, prescribed fire. Prairie Lanai, and Hawaii. This species is forest habitat of D. digressa, and to succeeds to shrubland or forest without

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periodic fire, grazing, or mowing; thus, 1,574 adults were found at 40 sites, Crustaceans the species is also threatened at sites compared with 643 adults at 31 sites in Anchialine pool shrimp (Metabetaeus where such management practices are 1996, 928 adults at 31 sites in 1995, and lohena) – The following summary is not applied. We, other agencies, and 742 adults at 21 sites in 1993. Of the 40 based on information contained in our private organizations (e.g., The Nature sites in the 2004–2005 surveys with one files. No new information was provided Conservancy) protect and manage some or more adults, results ranged from 3 in the petition we received on May 11, Dakota skipper sites. Although proper sites with large populations of over 100 2004. Metabetaeus lohena is an management is always necessary to adults, to 13 sites with fewer than 10 anchialine pool-inhabiting species of ensure its persistence, even at protected adults. Results from a limited removal shrimp belonging to the family sites, it is secure at some sites owned by study at four sites suggest that the actual Alpheidae. This species is endemic to these entities. The species is also secure population size at the various survey the Hawaiian Islands and is currently at some sites where private landowners sites is likely to be as much as two times known from populations on the islands manage native prairie in ways that as high as indicated by the visual index of Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii. The conserve Dakota skipper. Despite these counts. primary threats to this species are protections, recent surveys in at least Lack of fire to create open sand, predation by fish (which do not parts of the species’ range have led us naturally occur in the pools inhabited pesticide use, small population sizes, to view threats to Dakota skipper as by this species) and habitat loss from and over-collecting pose serious threats being more imminent than we degradation. The pools where this previously believed. In January 2007, for to this species. Because this species is species occurs on the islands of Maui example, Minnesota Department of narrowly distributed with specific and Hawaii are located within State Natural Resources proposed (although, habitat requirements and small Natural Area Reserves (NAR). Hawaii’s it did not finalize) revising the status of populations, any of the threats could State statutes prohibit the collection of Dakota skipper in the state from have a significant impact on the survival the species and the disturbance of the threatened to endangered because it of the species. Therefore, the magnitude pools in State NARs. However, ‘‘appears to be rapidly disappearing of threats is high. Although the majority enforcement of collection and from remnant habitat.’’ In addition, of its historic range has been lost, disturbance prohibitions is difficult, and approximately half of the inhabited sites degraded, and fragmented, numerous the negative effects from the are privately owned with little or no sites are protected and land managers protection. Ongoing threats on these introduction of fish are extensive and are implementing prescribed fire, which happen quickly. In addition, the pools sites include invasive species, are expected to restore habitat and help overgrazing, and herbicide applications. where this species occurs on the island reduce threats and have already helped A few private sites are protected from of Oahu do not receive protection from stabilize and somewhat improve the conversion by easements, but these do collection of the species or disturbance populations. Overall, the threats are not prevent adverse effects from of the pools. Therefore, threats to this overgrazing. Overall, the threats are nonimminent. Therefore, we assigned species have a significant adverse effect moderate in magnitude because they are the Highlands tiger beetle an LPN of 5. on the survival of the species, and are of a high magnitude. However, the not occurring rangewide. They are, Arachnids however, ongoing and therefore primary threats of predation from fish imminent, particularly on private lands. Warton cave meshweaver (Cicurina and loss of habitat due to degradation We assigned an LPN of 8 to this species. wartoni) – The following summary is are nonimminent overall, because on Mardon skipper (Polites mardon) – based on information contained in our the islands of Maui and Hawaii no fish See above in ‘‘Summary of Listing files. No new information was provided were observed in any of the pools where Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The in the petition received on May 11, this species occurs and there has been above summary is based on information 2004. Warton Cave meshweaver is an no documented dumping in these pools. Only one site on Oahu had a dumping contained in our files and the petition eyeless, cave-dwelling, unpigmented, instance, and in that case the dumping we received on December 24, 2002. 0.25 inch long invertebrate known only was cleaned up immediately and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle from female specimens. This species subsequently observed. No (Cicindela limbata albissima) – See meshweaver is known to occur in only additional dumping events are known to above in ‘‘Summary of Listing Priority one cave, Pickle Pit, in Travis County, Changes in Candidates.’’ The above have occurred. Therefore, we assigned Texas. Primary threats to the species summary is based on information this species an LPN of 5. and its habitat are predation and contained in our files, including Anchialine pool shrimp competition from fire ants, surface and information from the petition we (Palaemonella burnsi) – The following received on April 21, 1994. subsurface effects from runoff from an summary is based on information Highlands tiger beetle (Cicindela adjacent subdivision, unauthorized contained in our files. No new highlandensis) – The following entry into the area surrounding the cave, information was provided in the summary is based on information modification of vegetation near the cave petition we received on May 11, 2004. contained in our files. No new from human use, and trash dumping Palaemonella burnsi is an anchialine information was provided in the which may include toxic materials near pool-inhabiting species of shrimp petition we received on May 11, 2004. the feature. The magnitude of threats is belonging to the family Palaemonidae. The Highlands tiger beetle is narrowly high because the single location for this This species is endemic to the Hawaiian distributed and restricted to areas of species makes it highly vulnerable to Islands and is currently known from bare sand within upland oak scrub and extinction from the identified threats. three populations on the island of Maui pine vegetation on ancient sand dunes The threats are imminent because fire and one population on the island of of the Lake Wales Ridge in Polk and ants are known to occur in the vicinity Hawaii. The primary threats to this Highlands Counties, Florida. Adult tiger of the cave, and impacts to the cave species are predation by fish (which do beetles have been found at 40 sites from from runoff and human activities are an not naturally occur in the pools near Haines City south to Josephine imminent threat. Thus, we assign an inhabited by this species) and habitat Creek. In 2004–2005 surveys, a total of LPN of 2 to this species. loss due to degradation. The pools

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where this species occurs on Maui are based on information contained in our still be found in the reef deposit aquifers located within a State Natural Area files. No new information was provided in Mona Island that have not yet been Reserve (NAR). Hawaii’s State statutes in the petition we received on May 11, surveyed. In 1995, close to 2,000 prohibit the collection of the species 2004. Vetericaris chaceorum is an individuals were estimated; over 95% of and the disturbance of the pools in State anchialine pool-inhabiting species of these were observed in only one cave. NARs. On the island of Hawaii, the shrimp belonging to the family Although no systematic censuses have species occurs within a National Park, Procarididae; it is the only species in its been conducted since 1995, the Service and collection and disturbance are also genus. This species is endemic to the recently documented the presence of the prohibited. However, enforcement of Hawaiian Islands, and is only known species in all three caves and obtained these prohibitions is difficult, and the from one population in a single pool on information from Puerto Rico negative effects from the introduction of the island of Hawaii. The primary Commonwealth Forest personnel fish are extensive and happen quickly. threats to this species are predation regarding another cave in which the Therefore, threats to this species have a from nonnative fish and habitat species may occur. significant adverse effect on the survival degradation and contamination from Changes in groundwater quality, of the species, and are of a high illegal trash dumping. This species collection of rare animals, predation, magnitude. However, the threats are would be highly vulnerable to predation limited distribution of the species, nonimminent, because surveys in 2004 by any intentionally or accidentally limited availability of appropriate and 2007 did not find fish in the pools introduced fish, or contamination from habitat (i.e., underground aquifers where these shrimp occur on Maui or illegal dumping into its single known within cave formations), potential the island of Hawaii. Also, there was no location. This pool lies within lands reduction of food sources (e.g., mortality evidence of recent habitat degradation at administered by the State of Hawaii or reduction in bat populations), and those pools. We assigned this species an Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. low population numbers, potentially LPN of 5. The threats to V. chaceorum from threaten populations of the troglobitic Anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris habitat degradation and destruction, as groundwater shrimp. However, because hawaiana) – The following summary is well as from predation by nonnative fish the known range of the species is within based on information contained in our are of high magnitude, because this protected lands, and based on available files. No new information was provided species occurs in only one pool; thus information of known management in the petition we received on May 11, ´ the threats could significantly impair activities within the Guanica 2004. Procaris hawaiana is an the survival of the species. All Commonwealth Forest or Mona Island, anchialine pool-inhabiting species of individuals of this species may be the magnitude of the remaining threats, shrimp belonging to the family adversely impacted by a single dumping possible extraction of ground-water in Procarididae. This species is endemic to of trash or release of nonnative fish in Mona and vulnerability to catastrophic the Hawaiian Islands, and is currently its only known pool. However, the events, is moderate to low. The threats known from two populations on the threats are nonimminent, as fish have island of Maui and one population on are not currently occurring, and not been introduced into the pool (nor therefore are nonimminent. We the island of Hawaii. The primary is there any reason to believe that threats to this species are predation continue to assign a LPN of 11 to this introduction is imminent) and a site species. from fish (which do not naturally occur visit in early 2005 showed there were no in the pools inhabited by this species) signs of dumping or fill. Therefore we Flowering plants and habitat loss due to degradation. The assigned this species an LPN of 4 pools where this species occurs on Maui Abronia alpina (Ramshaw Meadows because the threats are of high are located within a State Natural Area sand-verbena) – The following summary magnitude but nonimminent, and the Reserve (NAR). Hawaii’s State statutes is based on information contained in species is in a monotypic genus. prohibit the collection of the species our files. No new information was and the disturbance of the pools in State Troglobitic groundwater shrimp provided in the petition we received on NARs. However, enforcement of these (Typhlatya monae) – The following May 11, 2004. Abronia alpina is a small prohibitions is difficult and the negative summary is based on information perennial herb, 2.5 to 15.2 centimeters effects from the introduction of fish are contained in our files including (1 to 6 inches) across, forming compact extensive and happen quickly. In information from the petition we mats with lavender-pink, trumpet- addition, there are no conservation received on May 11, 2004. The shaped, and generally fragment flowers. efforts underway to alleviate the troglobitic groundwater shrimp is a Abronia alpina is known from one main potential for any of these threats in the subterranean small shrimp known from population center in Ramshaw Meadow one pool on the island of Hawaii. Puerto Rico, Barbuda, and Dominican on the Kern Plateau of the Sierra Therefore, threats to this species have a Republic. It is classified as a troglobite, Nevada, California and from one significant adverse effect on the survival or obligatory cave organism, of which its subpopulation found in adjacent of the species, and thus remain at a high most extraordinary feature is the Templeton Meadow. The total estimated magnitude. However, the threats to the reduction or loss of vision and area occupied is approximately 6 species are nonimminent because, pigmentation. Members of the species hectares (15 acres). The population during 2004 and 2007 surveys, no fish feed on organic waste material and fluctuates from year to year without any were observed in the pools where these debris, such as bat guano. Little is clear trends. Population estimates from shrimp occur on Maui, and no fish were known concerning the status of the 1985-1994 range from a low of 69,652 observed in the one pool on the island species in either Barbuda or Dominican plants in 1986 to 132,215 plants in of Hawaii during a site visit in 2005. In Republic. Although in Puerto Rico this 1987. Surveys conducted since 1994 addition, there were no signs of species was previously found at Mona indicate that no significant changes dumping or fill in any of the pools Island, currently it is known´ from only have occurred in population size or where the species occurs. Therefore, we three caves within the Guanica location, although the 2003 survey assigned this species an LPN of 5. Commonwealth Forest´ in the showed population numbers to be at the Anchialine pool shrimp (Vetericaris municipalities of Guanica, Yauco, and low end of the range. The population chaceorum) – The following summary is Guayanilla. However, the species may was last monitored in 2007.

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The factors threatening Abronia known from the Gulf Coastal Plain, silverbush is vulnerable to natural alpina include natural and human Piedmont, and Ridge and Valley disturbances, such as hurricanes, alteration of habitat, hydrologic changes physiographic provinces of Alabama tropical storms, and storm surges. to the water table, and recreational use and Georgia. Populations of this species Climatic change, particularly sea level within meadow habitats. Lodgepole typically have a limited number of rise, is a long-term threat that is pine encroachment has altered the individuals over a small area. Habitat expected to continue to affect pine meadow and trees are becoming degradation, more than outright habitat rocklands and ultimately reduce the established within A. alpina habitat. destruction, is the most serious threat to extent of available habitat, especially in Lodgepole pine encroachment may alter the continued existence of this species. the Keys. Overall, the magnitude of soil characteristics by increasing organic Disturbance, associated with timber threats is moderate because not all of matter levels, decreasing porosity, and harvesting, road building, and grazing the populations are affected by the moderating diurnal temperature has created favorable conditions for the threats and the species has a relatively fluctuations thus reducing the invasion of exotic weeds, especially large population size. In addition, land competitive ability of A. alpina to Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera managers are aware of the threats from persist in an environment more japonica), in this species’ habitat. A exotic plants and lack of fire, and are, hospitable to other plant species. The large number of the populations are to some extent, working to reduce this Ramshaw Meadow ecosystem is subject currently or potentially threatened by threat where possible. While some of to potential alteration by lowering of the the presence of exotics. The heritage the threats are occurring in some areas, water table due to downcutting of the programs in Alabama and Georgia have the threat from development is South Fork of the Kern River (SFKR). initiated plans for exotic control at nonimminent since most of the The SFKR flows through Ramshaw several populations. The magnitude of populations are on public land and sea- Meadow, at times coming within 15 m threats to this species is considered to level rise is not currently affecting this (50 ft) of A. alpina habitat, particularly be moderate to low due to the number species. Overall, the threats are in the vicinity of five subpopulations. of populations (20) across multiple nonimminent. Thus, we assigned an The habitat occupied by A. alpina counties in two states and due to the LPN of 11 to this species. directly borders the meadow system fact that several sites are protected. Artemisia campestris var. supported by the SFKR. Drying out of However, since a number of the wormskioldii (Northern wormwood) – the meadow system could potentially populations are currently being affected The following summary is based on affect A. alpina pollinators and/or seed by nonnative plants, the threat is information contained in our files. No dispersal agents. Established hiker, imminent. Thus, we assigned an LPN of new information was provided in the packstock, and cattle trails pass through 8 to this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. A. alpina subpopulations. Two main Argythamnia blodgettii (Blodgett’s Historically known from eight sites, hiker trails pass through Ramshaw silverbush) – The following summary is northern wormwood is currently known Meadow, but were rerouted out of A. based on information in our files. No from two populations in Klickitat and alpina subpopulations where feasible, new information was provided in the Grant Counties, Washington. This plant in 1988 and 1997. Remnants of cattle petition we received on May 11, 2004. is restricted to exposed basalt, cobbly- trails that pass through subpopulations Blodgett’s silverbush occurs in Florida sandy terraces, and sand habitat along in several places receive occasional and is found in open, sunny areas in the shore and on islands in the pine rockland, edges of rockland Columbia River. The two sites are incidental use by horses and sometimes hammock, edges of coastal berm, and separated by 200 miles (322 kilometers) hikers. Cattle use, however, currently, is sometimes disturbed areas at the edges of the Columbia River and three large not a threat due to the 2001 of natural areas. Plants can be found hydroelectric dams. The Klickitat implementation of a ten year growing from crevices on limestone, or County population is declining; the moratorium on the Templeton allotment on sand. The pine rockland habitat status is unclear for the Grant County which prohibits cattle from all A. alpina where the species occurs in Miami-Dade population; however, both are locations. The Service is funding studies County and the Florida Keys requires vulnerable to environmental variability. to determine appropriate conservation periodic fires to maintain habitat with a Surveys have not detected any measures and working with the U.S. minimum amount of hardwoods. There additional plants. Forest Service on developing a are approximately 27 extant Threats to northern wormwood conservation strategy for the species. occurrences, 12 in Monroe County and include direct loss of habitat through The threats are of a low magnitude and 15 in Miami-Dade County; many regulation of water levels in the nonimminent because of the occurrences are on conservation lands. Columbia River and placement of riprap conservation actions already However, 4–5 sites are recently thought along the river bank; trampling of plants implemented. Therefore, we assigned a to be extirpated. The estimated as a result of recreational use; LPN of 11 to this species. population size of Blodgett’s silverbush competition with nonnative invasive Arabis georgiana (Georgia rockcress) – in the Florida Keys, excluding Big Pine species; burial by wind and water-borne The following summary is based on Key, is roughly 11,000; the estimated sediments; small population sizes; information in our files. No new population in Miami-Dade County is susceptibility to genetic drift and information was provided in the 375 to 13,650 plants. inbreeding; and the potential for petition we received on May 11, 2004. Blodgett’s silverbush is threatened by hybridization with two other species of The Georgia rockcress grows in a variety habitat loss, which is exacerbated by Artemisia. Ongoing conservation actions of dry situations, including shallow soil habitat degradation due to fire have reduced trampling, but have not accumulations on rocky bluffs, ecotones suppression, the difficulty of applying eliminated or reduced the other threats of gently sloping rock outcrops, and in prescribed fire to pine rocklands, and at the Grant County site. The magnitude sandy loam along eroding river banks. It threats from exotic plants. Remaining of threat is high for this subspecies is occasionally found in adjacent mesic habitats are fragmented. Threats such as because the only two remaining woods, but it will not persist in heavily road maintenance and enhancement, populations are widely separated and shaded conditions. Currently, infrastructure, and illegal dumping distributed such that one or both approximately 20 populations are threaten some populations. Blodgett’s populations could be eliminated by a

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single disturbance. The threats are campylotheca ssp. pentamera is displace it. Feral pigs have been fenced imminent because recreational use is threatened by feral pigs that degrade out of the lower elevation populations ongoing, invasive nonnative species and destroy habitat, and by nonnative in the west Maui mountains and in the occur at both sites, erosion of the plants that compete for habitat. Feral summit areas and nonnative plants have substrate is ongoing at the Klickitat pigs have been fenced out of one been greatly reduced in the fenced County site, and high water flows are population at Kipahulu. These ongoing areas. Because these conservation efforts random, naturally occurring events that conservation efforts (fencing and have alleviated the threats in several may occur unpredictably in any year. nonnative plant removal) benefit only portions of the range, the magnitude of Therefore, we have retained an LPN of one of the four known populations as the threats are moderate. However, these 3 for this subspecies. the remaining populations on east and threats are imminent because they are Astragalus tortipes (Sleeping Ute west Maui are still affected by these still ongoing in portions of this species milkvetch) – The following summary is threats. Habitat destruction and range. Therefore, we retained an LPN of based on information contained in our nonnative plants continue to be high- 8 for this species. files. No new information was provided magnitude threats, because they Bidens micrantha ssp. ctenophylla in the petition we received on May 11, threaten the continued existence of this (Kookooalu) – The following summary 2004. Sleeping Ute milkvetch is a subspecies. In addition, threats to B. is based on information contained in perennial plant that grows only on the campylotheca ssp. pentamera are our files. No new information was Smokey Hills layer of the Mancos Shale imminent because they are ongoing in provided in the petition we received on Formation on the Ute Mountain Ute three populations. Therefore, we May 11, 2004. This subspecies is an Indian Reservation in Montezuma retained an LPN of 3 for this subspecies. erect, perennial herb found in open County, Colorado. In 2000, 3,744 plants Bidens campylotheca ssp. waihoiensis mixed shrubland to dry Metrosideros were recorded at 24 locations covering (Kookooalu) – The following summary (ohia) forest on the island of Hawaii, 500 acres within an overall range of is based on information contained in Hawaii. This subspecies is endemic to 64,000 acres. Available information our files. No new information was the island of Hawaii, where it is from 2000 indicates that the species provided in the petition we received on restricted to an area of less than 10 remains stable. Previous and ongoing May 11, 2004. Bidens campylotheca ssp. square miles (26 square kilometers). threats from borrow pit excavation, off- waihoiensis is an erect, perennial herb Bidens micrantha ssp. ctenophylla is highway vehicles, irrigation canal found in wet Acacia-Metrosideros (koa- known from four wild and four construction, and a prairie dog colony ohia) forest on Maui, Hawaii. Bidens outplanted populations totaling have had minor impacts that reduced campylotheca ssp. waihoiensis is approximately 130 to 140 individuals, the range and number of plants by small known from two populations, totaling the majority of which occur in only two amounts. Off-highway vehicle use of the 300 to 350 individuals. It is threatened (wild) populations. This subspecies is habitat is reportedly increasing. Oil and by feral pigs and cattle, which eat this threatened by fire and nonnative plants, gas development is active in the general plant and degrade and destroy habitat, and two populations are threatened by area, but the Service has received no and by nonnative plants that residential and commercial information from the Tribe to indicate outcompete and displace it. development. The threats to B. whether there is development within Conservation measures such as strategic micrantha ssp. ctenophylla from fire the habitat for the plants. The Tribe fences and control of nonnative plants and nonnative plants are of a high reported this year that the status of the benefit the plants in Kipahulu Valley; magnitude and imminent because they species remains unchanged, and that a however, the individuals in Waihoi are occurring range-wide, they threaten management plan for the species is Valley are still affected by these threats. the continued existence of the species, currently in draft form. The threats are Since foraging and habitat destruction and no efforts for their control have moderate in magnitude, since they have result in direct mortality, they pose a been undertaken. In addition, two had minor impacts and, based on high-magnitude threat to the small populations are also threatened by information we have, the population populations. They are also a imminent development. Therefore, we retained an appears to be stable. While ORV use is threat because they are ongoing in the LPN of 3 for this subspecies. currently occurring at a rate that causes Wahoi Valley. Therefore, we retained an Brickellia mosieri (Florida brickell- minor impacts and may be increasing, LPN of 3 for this subspecies. bush) – The following summary is based oil and gas production is not known to Bidens conjuncta (Kookooalu) – The on information contained in our files. currently occur in the areas where this following summary is based on No new information was provided in species exists. Overall, we conclude information in our files. No new the petition we received on May 11, threats are nonimminent. Therefore, we information was provided in the 2004. This species is restricted to pine assigned an LPN of 11 to this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. rocklands of Miami-Dade County, Bidens amplectens (Kookooalu) – We Bidens conjuncta is an erect, perennial Florida. This habitat requires periodic have not updated our assessment for herb found in Metrosideros- prescribed fires to maintain the low this species, as we are currently Dicranopteris-Cheirodendron (ohia- understory and prevent encroachment developing a proposed listing rule. uluhe-olapa) lowland to montane wet by native tropical hardwoods and exotic Bidens campylotheca ssp. pentamera forest and shrubland on Maui, Hawaii. plants, such as Brazilian pepper. Only (Kookooalu) – The following summary Eight populations are known, totaling one large population is known to exist, is based on information contained in fewer than 3,000 individuals, scattered plus 18 other occurrences each our files. No new information was throughout upper elevation drainages of containing less than 100 individuals. provided in the petition we received on west Maui. Although the overall range Ten of these occurrences are on May 11, 2004. This subspecies is an of the species has not changed, the conservation lands. This species is erect, perennial herb found in number of individuals has declined over threatened by habitat loss, which is Cheirodendron-Metrosideros (olapa- the last decade or so. This species is exacerbated by habitat degradation due ohia) montane wet forest on Maui, threatened by pigs that degrade and to fire suppression, the difficulty of Hawaii. This subspecies is known from destroy habitat, and eat vegetative parts applying prescribed fire to pine four populations with a total of and fruit of B. conjuncta, and by rocklands, and threats from exotic approximately 180 individuals. Bidens nonnative plants that outcompete and plants. Remaining habitats are

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fragmented. The species is vulnerable to Metrosideros-Machaerina (ohia-uki) threat to Calliandra locoensis is high natural disturbances, such as montane wet bog or Metrosideros- due to its restricted distribution, which hurricanes, tropical storms, and storm Rhynchospora-Oreobolus (ohia- makes it vulnerable to catastrophic surges. Due to its restricted range and kuolohia-oreobolus) mixed bog on Maui, events, and apparent low dispersal the small sizes of most isolated Hawaii. This species is known from two capability; and the threats are occurrences, this species is vulnerable populations of fewer than 2,000 nonimminent given that the populations to environmental (catastrophic individuals, restricted to the bogs of are found within protected lands and hurricanes), demographic (potential west Maui. There is an unconfirmed there are no known projects or episodes of poor reproduction), and report of C. hillebrandii from central management activities planned that genetic (potential inbreeding Molokai. This species is currently would destroy the known populations. depression) threats. Ongoing threatened by pigs that degrade and Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 to conservation efforts includes a project destroy habitat and nonnative plants this species. aimed at facilitating restoration and that outcompete and displace it. A Calochortus persistens (Siskiyou management of privately owned pine portion of one population is protected mariposa lily) – The following summary rockland habitats in Miami-Dade by an ungulate exclosure fence while is based on information contained in County, and a project funded in 2008 to the other population may indirectly our files and the petition we received on restore suitable habitat and reintroduce benefit from conservation actions for September 10, 2001. The Siskiyou and establish new populations of the ungulate control and control of mariposa lily is a narrow endemic that plants in pine rocklands. The Service is nonnative plants conducted in a nearby is restricted to three disjunct ridge tops also pursuing additional habitat preserve. The threats are imminent in the Klamath-Siskiyou Range on the restoration projects, which could help because they are ongoing in one of the California-Oregon border. The southern- further improve the status of the two known populations. Because they most occurrence of this species is species. Because of these efforts, the threaten the continued existence of the comprised of nine separate sites on overall magnitude of threats is species, the threats are high in approximately 10 hectares (ha) (24.7 moderate. The threats are ongoing and magnitude. Therefore, we retained an acres (ac)) of Klamath National Forest thus imminent. We assigned this species LPN of 2 for this species. and privately owned lands that stretch an LPN of 8. Calliandra locoensis (no common for 6 kilometers (km) (3.7 miles (mi)) Calamagrostis expansa (Maui name) – The following summary is along the Gunsight-Humbug Ridge, reedgrass) – The following summary is based on information contained in our Siskiyou County, California. In 2007, a based on information contained in our files. No new information was provided new occurrence was confirmed in the files. No new information was provided in the petition we received on May 11, locality of Cottonwood Peak and Little in the petition we received on May 11, 2004. Calliandra locoensis is a spiny, Cottonwood Peak, Siskiyou County. The 2004. This species is a robust, short- leguminous shrub currently known´ from northern-most occurrence consists of rhizomatous perennial found in wet five localities within the Susua not more than five Siskiyou mariposa forest, open bogs, and bog margins on Commonwealth Forest in the lily plants that were discovered in 1998, the islands of Maui and Hawaii, Hawaii. municipalities of Yauco and Sabana on Bald Mountain, west of Ashland, Historically rare, C. expansa was Grande, in southwestern Puerto Rico. Jackson County, Oregon. restricted to wet forest and bogs on Surveys in 2007 estimated 1,600 adult Major threats include competition and Maui. Its historical status is unknown plants with numerous seedlings. shading by native and nonnative species on Hawaii. Currently, this species is Twenty-five native species of Calliandra fostered by suppression of wild fire; known from 11 populations totaling have been reported for the Antilles, increased fuel loading and subsequent approximately 230 individuals on Maui, three of which are native to Puerto Rico, risk of wild fire; fragmentation by roads, and was recently discovered in eight including C. locoensis. This species is fire breaks, tree plantations, and radio- populations totaling approximately 350 endemic to Puerto Rico, and was tower facilities; maintenance and individuals on the island of Hawaii. discovered in 1991´ during a study of the construction around radio towers and Calamagrostis expansa is threatened by flora of the Susua Commonwealth telephone relay stations located on pigs that degrade and destroy habitat Forest. It is found on shallow, Gunsight Peak and Mahogany Point; and and by nonnative plants that serpentine soils with low nutrients, high soil disturbance, direct damage, and outcompete and displace it. Feral pigs drainage, and low fertility. Much of the exotic weed and grass species have been fenced out of most of the west vegetation in the forest was cut for introduction as a result of heavy Maui populations, and nonnative plants wood, cultivation, livestock grazing, and recreational use and construction of fire have been reduced in the fenced areas. charcoal production, prior to its breaks. Dyer’s woad (Isatis tinctoria), an However, the threats are not controlled designation as a public forest. invasive, nonnative plant that may and are ongoing in the remaining Calliandra locoensis exhibits a low prevent germination of Siskiyou unfenced populations on Maui and at degree of self-compatibility in mariposa lily seedlings, is now found all of the populations on the island of pollination tests. Seeds have short throughout the southern-most California Hawaii. Therefore, overall the threats viability period, do not appear to have occurrence, affecting 75 percent of the from feral pigs and nonnative plants are a biotic dispersal agent (dispersed by known lily habitat on Gunsight-Humbug of a high magnitude and imminent for dehiscence (natural bursting open)), and Ridge. Forest Service staff and the C. expansa, and we retained an LPN of require mesic conditions for Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center cite 2 for this species. germination, which may be factors in competition with dyer’s woad as a Calamagrostis hillebrandii the species’ limited distribution. significant and chronic threat to the (Hillebrand’s reedgrass) – The following The restricted distribution, forest survival of Siskiyou mariposa lily. summary is based on information management practices (accidental The combination of restricted range, contained in our files. No new trampling, brush clearing, trail extremely low numbers (five plants) in information was provided in the maintenance), forest fires (natural or one of three disjunct populations, poor petition we received on May 11, 2004. manmade), and catastrophic natural competitive ability, short seed dispersal Calamagrostis hillebrandii is a slender, events (hurricanes, floods, mudslides), distance, slow growth rates, low seed short-rhizomatous perennial found in threaten this species. The magnitude of production, apparently poor survival

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rates in some years, herbivory, and (both islands). An ungulate exclosure from Big Pine, No Name, Ramrod, and competition from exotic plants threaten fence protects six individuals of C. Cudjoe Keys (Monroe County, Florida). the continued existence of this species. pubescens, and weed control is ongoing In 2005, a small population was These threats are of high magnitude at this location on Maui. This species is detected on lower Sugarloaf Key, but because of their potential to negatively represented in two ex-situ collections. this population was apparently affect the overall survival of the species. Threats to this species from feral goats, extirpated later in 2005, due to the Because the threats from herbivory and axis deer, and nonnative plants are effects of Hurricane Wilma. It presently competition from exotic plants are not ongoing, or imminent, and of high occurs on Big Pine Key, plus a very anticipated in the immediate future, and magnitude because they significantly small population found on Cudjoe Key the threats from low seed production affect the species throughout its range. in 2005. It is fairly well distributed in and survival are longer-term threats, Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for Big Pine Key pine rocklands, which overall the threats are nonimminent. this species. encompass approximately 580 hectares Therefore, we assigned a listing priority Castilleja christii (Christ’s paintbrush) (1,433 acres), approximately 360 number of 5 to this species. – The following summary is based on hectares (890 acres) of which are within Calyptranthes estremerae (no information contained in our files and the Service’s National Key Deer Refuge common name) – The following the petition we received on January 2, (NKDR). Over 80% of the population summary is based on information 2001. Castilleja christii is found in one probably exists on NKDR, with the contained in our files. No new population covering approximately 85 remainder distributed among State, information was provided in the ha (220 ac) on the summit of Mount County, and private properties. petition we received on May 11, 2004. Harrison in Cassia County, Idaho. This Hurricane Wilma (October 2005) Calyptranthes estremerae is a small tree endemic species is considered a resulted in a storm surge that covered from the subtropical moist forest of hemiparasite (dependent on the health most of Big Pine Key with sea water. In northwestern Puerto Rico, in the of their surrounding native plant plots sampled after Wilma, frequency of municipalities of Camuy, Utuado, and community), and it grows in association occurrence was less than a third and Arecibo. Calyptranthes estremerae was with subalpine meadow and sagebrush density was less than half that found in only known from several individuals habitats. The population may be large plots sampled before Wilma. found near the recreation area adjacent (greater than 10,000 individual plants); Pine rockland communities are to the Camuy Caves, but specimens however, the species is considered to be ´ maintained by relatively frequent fires. were later found within the Rıo Abajo subject to large variations in annual In the absence of fire, shrubs and trees Commonwealth Forest (up to 50 abundance and an accurate current encroach on pine rockland and the individuals) at a site affected by the population estimate is not available. subspecies is eventually shaded out. construction of Highway PR 10 in 1995. Monitoring indicates that reproductive NKDR has a prescribed fire program, At the present time, a minimum of 100 stems per plant and plant density although with many constraints on specimens of C. estremerae are declined between 1995 and 2007. The implementation. Habitat loss due to estimated for the Rio Abajo primary threat to the species is the Commonwealth Forest and an nonnative invasive plant smooth brome development was historically the undetermined number in the Camuy (Bromus inermis). Despite cooperative greatest threat to the pea. Much of the area. The magnitude of threat to C. Forest Service and Service efforts to remaining habitat is now protected on estremerae is high, due to restricted control smooth brome in 2005, 2006, public lands. Absence of fire now distribution and small number of and 2007, it still persists and has appears to be the greatest of the individuals, and the potential increased in some C. christii habitats. deterministic threats. Given the recent destruction of specimens and habitat Other threats to C. christii from increase in hurricane activity, storm from catastrophic natural events and the recreational use appear to be mostly surges are the greatest of the stochastic expansion of recreational facilities. seasonal and affect only a small portion threats. The small range and patchy However, these threats are not imminent of the population, although they too are distribution of the subspecies increases because the largest known population of imminent. The magnitude of the threats risk from stochastic events. Additional C. estremerae is found within protected to this species is moderate at this time threats include sea level rise, restricted lands, there are no known recreational because, although the smooth brome range, invasive exotic plants, roadside facility projects planned that would control efforts have not been effective, dumping, loss of pollinators, seed destroy the sites, and the species can be the Service and Forest Service are predators, and development. The above transplanted successfully. Therefore, we continuing their efforts in order to description of threats also apply to assigned an LPN of 5 to Calyptranthes protect this potentially large population Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, estremerae. of plants. The threat from smooth brome below. Canavalia pubescens (Awikiwiki) – is imminent because the threat still We maintain the previous assessment The following summary is based on persists at a level that affects the native that hurricane storm surges, lack of fire, information contained in our files. No plant communities that provide habitat and limited distribution results in a new information was provided in the for C. christii. Thus, we assign an LPN moderate magnitude of threat because a petition we received on May 11, 2004. of 8 to this species. large part of the range is on conservation Awikiwiki is a perennial climber found Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis lands wherein threats are being in lowland dryland forest on Maui and (Big Pine partridge pea) –The following controlled although fire management is Lanai, and is possibly on the island of summary is based on information at much slower rate than is required. Niihau, Hawaii. This species is known contained in our files. No new The immediacy of hurricane threats is from five populations totaling a little information was provided in the difficult to characterize. Sea level rise over 200 individuals. This species is petition we received on May 11, 2004. remains uncontrolled, but is threatened by development (Maui), This pea is endemic to the lower Florida nonimminent regarding most of the goats (Maui) and axis deer (Maui and Keys, and restricted to pine rocklands habitat area or population on an annual Lanai) that degrade and destroy habitat, and hardwood hammock edges, and basis. Overall, the threats from limited and by nonnative plants that roadsides and firebreaks within these distribution and inadequate fire outcompete and displace native plants ecosystems. Historically, it was known management are imminent since they

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are ongoing. Therefore, we retained an conducted in 2005. Additional surveys other natural or manmade factors. One LPN of 9 for Big Pine partridge pea. were initiated in 2008. Wedge spurge is of the two populations (Upper Las Chamaesyce deltoidea pinetorum a small prostrate herb. It was Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve) (Pineland sandmat) – The following historically, and remains, restricted to is in permanent, public ownership and summary is based on information pine rocklands on Big Pine Key in is being managed by an agency that is contained in our files. No new Monroe County, Florida. Pine rocklands working to conserve the plant; however, information was provided in the encompass approximately 580 hectares the use of adjacent habitat for filming petition we received on May 11, 2004. (1,433 acres) on Big Pine Key, movies has recently been brought to our The pineland sandmat in only known approximately 360 hectares (890 acres) attention; the potential impacts to C. from Miami-Dade County, Florida. The of which are within the Service’s parryi var. fernandina have not yet been largest occurrence, estimated at more National Key Deer Refuge (NKDR). Most evaluated. We will be working with the than 10,000 plants, is located on Long of the species’ range falls within the landowners to manage the site for the Pine Key within Everglades National NKDR, with the remainder on State, benefit of C. parryi var. fernandina. The Park. All other occurrences are smaller County, and private properties. It is not other population (Newhall Ranch) is and are in isolated pine rockland widely dispersed within the limited under the threat of development; fragments in heavily urbanized Miami- range. Occurrences are sparser in the however, a Candidate Conservation Dade County. Occurrences on private southern portion of Big Pine Key, which Agreement (CCA) is being developed lands and on one county-owned parcel contains smaller areas of NKDR lands with the landowner, and it is possible are at risk from development and habitat than does the northern portion. Wedge that the remaining plants can also be degradation and fragmentation. All spurge inhabits sites with low woody conserved. Until such an agreement is occurrences of the species are cover (e.g., low palm and hardwood finalized, the threat of development and threatened by habitat loss and densities) and usually, exposed rock or the potential damage to the Newhall degradation due to fire suppression, the gravel. See description of threats above Ranch population still exists, as shown difficulty of applying prescribed fire, under Chamaecrista lineata var. by the destruction of some plants during and exotic plants. These threats are keyensis installation of an agave farm. severe within small and unmanaged We maintain the previous assessment Furthermore, cattle grazing on Newhall fragments in urban areas. However, the that low fire return intervals plus Ranch may be a current threat. Cattle threats of fire suppression and exotics hurricane-related storm surges, in grazing may harm C. parryi var. are reduced on lands managed by the combination with a limited, fragmented fernandina by trampling and soil National Park Service. Another threat is distribution and threats from sea level compaction. Grazing activity could also hydrology changes. Hydrology has been rise, results in a moderate magnitude of alter the nutrient content of the soils altered within Long Pine Key due to threat, in part, because a large part of through fecal inputs, which in turn may artificial drainage, which lowered the range is on conservation lands favor the growth of other plant species ground water, and construction of roads, wherein threats can be substantially that would otherwise not grow so which either impounded or diverted controlled. The immediacy of hurricane readily on the mineral-based soils. Over water. Regional water management threats is difficult to categorize. Sea time, changes in species composition intended to restore the Everglades could level rise remains uncontrolled, but over may render the sites less favorable for negatively affect the pinelands of Long much of the range is nonimminent the persistence of C. parryi var. Pine Key. At this time, we do not know compared to other prominent threats. fernandina. Invasive nonnative plants, whether the proposed restoration and Threats resulting from limited fire including grasses, could potentially associated hydrological modifications occurrences are imminent. Since major displace it from available habitat; will have a positive or negative effect on threats are ongoing, overall, the threats compete for light, water, and nutrients; pineland sandmat. This narrow endemic are imminent. Therefore, we retained an and reduce survival and establishment. may be vulnerable to catastrophic LPN of 9 for this subspecies. Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina is events and natural disturbances, such as Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina particularly vulnerable to extinction due hurricanes. Conditions related to (San Fernando Valley spineflower) – to its concentration in two isolated climate change, particularly sea level The following summary is based on areas. The existence of only two areas of rise, may be a factor over the long-term. information contained in our files and occurrence, and a relatively small range, Overall, the magnitude of threats to this the petition we received on December makes it highly susceptible to extinction species is moderate, since by applying 14, 1999. Chorizanthe parryi var. or extirpation from a large part of its regular prescribed fire, the National fernandina is a low growing herbaceous range due to possible development and/ Park Service has kept Long Pine Key’s annual plant in the buckwheat family. or other habitat modification, or random pineland vegetation intact and relatively The plant currently is known from two events such as fire, drought, erosion, or free of exotic plants, and the extent to disjunct localities in southern other occurrences. We retained an LPN which proposed restoration will California: the first is in the of 6 for C. parryi var. fernandina due to negatively affect this subspecies are southeastern portion of Ventura County a high magnitude of nonimminent unclear. Overall, the threats are on a site within the Upper Las Virgenes threats. nonimminent since fire management is Canyon Open Space Preserve, formerly Chromolaena frustrata (Cape Sable regularly conducted, and sea level rise known as Ahmanson Ranch, and the thoroughwort) – The following and hurricanes are longer-term threats. second is in an area of southwestern Los summary is based on information Therefore, we assigned a LPN of 12 to Angeles County known as Newhall contained in our files. No new this subspecies. Ranch. Investigations of historical information was provided in the Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum locations and seemingly suitable habitat petition we received on May 11, 2004. (Wedge spurge) – The following within the range of the species have not This species is found most commonly in summary is based on information revealed any other occurrences. open sun to partial shade at the edges contained in our files. No new The threats currently facing San of rockland tropical hammock and in information was provided in the Fernando Valley spineflower include coastal rock barrens. There are nine petition we received on May 11, 2004. threatened destruction, modification, or extant occurrences located at five The most recent surveys were curtailment of its habitat or range, and islands in the Florida Keys and two

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locations within Everglades National documented at the Swan Key The population of C. rupicola on Park (ENP). The plant has been population. The cactus does not Anegada Island is currently in good extirpated from half of the islands propagate sexually, and asexual standing. The threats this species faces where it occurred. Prior to Hurricane reproduction is the main life history are ones that will arise in the future if Wilma in 2005, the population was strategy of this species. Recent genetic conservation measures are not estimated at roughly 5,000 individuals, studies have shown no variation within implemented and long-term impacts are with all but 500 occurring on one populations and very limited variation not averted. For these reasons, threats to privately owned island. More recently, between populations. Findings support the species as a whole are nonimminent. an estimate of 1,500 plants was given for the conclusion that the Swan Key Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 to areas within ENP. (upper Keys), Little Torch Key, and Big this species. This species is threatened by habitat Pine Key (outplanting; lower Keys) Cyanea asplenifolia (Haha) – The loss and modification, even on public populations are clonally derived and following summary is based on lands, and habitat loss and degradation genetically distinct from each other. information contained in our files. No due to threats from exotic plants at Studies examining the reproductive new information was provided in the almost all sites. The species is biology of the species indicate that all petition we received on May 11, 2004. vulnerable to natural disturbances, such extant wild and cultivated plants are Cyanea asplenifolia is a shrub found in as hurricanes, tropical storms, and male. Acacia-Metrosideros (koa-ohia) forest on storm surges. While these factors may The causes for the population decline Maui, Hawaii. Currently, this species is also work to maintain coastal rock of this species include destruction or known from eight populations totaling barren habitat in the long-term, modification of habitat, predation from fewer than 145 individuals. Cyanea Hurricane Wilma appeared to have had nonnative Cactoblastis cactorum moths asplenifolia is threatened by pigs, goats, severe impacts, at least in the short- and disease, poaching and vandalism, and cattle that degrade and destroy term. Occurrences probably declined sea level rise, and hurricanes. Because habitat and by nonnative plants, such as due to inundation of its coastal barren of low population numbers, lack of Australian tree fern, that outcompete and rockland hammock habitats in the variation between and within and displace it. This species is likely short-term; long-term effects on this populations, and reproductive threatened by predation by axis deer species are unknown. Sea level rise is problems, the threats are of high and by feral ungulates, rats, and slugs considered a major threat that will magnitude. The numerous threats are that may directly prey upon and continue. Potential effects from other ongoing and therefore, are imminent. defoliate individuals. Pig and goat changes in fresh water deliveries and Thus, we assigned this species an LPN exclusion fences protect individuals of the construction of the Buttonwood of 2. two of the known populations of this Canal are unknown. Problems Cordia rupicola (no common name) – species, and nonnative plants have been associated with small population size The following summary is based on reduced in one fenced area; however, and isolation are likely major factors, as information contained in our files. No continued monitoring of these fences occurrences may not be large enough to new information was provided in the will be necessary, as feral ungulates be viable; this narrowly endemic plant petition we received on May 11, 2004. from surrounding areas can easily has uncertain viability at most locations, Cordia rupicola, a small shrub, has been access unmaintained fenced areas. This especially following Hurricane Wilma. described˜ from southwestern´ Puerto species is represented in three ex-situ Thus, these factors constitute a high Rico (Penuelas and Guanica), Vieques collections. The threats continue to be magnitude of threat. The threats of small Island, and Anegada Island (British of a high magnitude because they population size, isolation, and uncertain Virgin Islands). All four sites lay within significantly affect the species resulting viability are imminent because they are the subtropical dry forest life zone in direct mortality or reduced ongoing. As a result, we assigned an overlying a limestone substrate. Cordia reproductive capacity. The threats are LPN of 2 to this species. rupicola has a restricted distribution in imminent because they are ongoing in at Consolea corallicola (Florida the subtropical dry forest of least two of the eight known semaphore cactus) – The following southwestern Puerto Rico and Vieques populations. Therefore, we retained an summary is based on information in our Island. Currently, approximately 226 LPN of 2 for this species. files. No new information was provided individuals˜ are known from 3 locations: Cyanea calycina (Haha) – We have in the petition we received on May 11, Penuelas and Guanica Commonwealth not updated our assessment for this 2004. The Florida semaphore cactus is Forests and Vieques National Wildlife species, as we are currently developing endemic to the Florida Keys, and was Refuge. Additionally, the species is a proposed listing rule. discovered on Big Pine Key in 1919, but reported as common on Anegada Island. Cyanea kunthiana (Haha) – The that population was extirpated as a However, the species is threatened by following summary is based on result of road building and poaching. residential and commercial information contained in our files. No This cactus grows close to salt water on development on Anegada Island and is new information was provided in the bare rock with a minimum of humus also vulnerable to natural (e.g., petition we received on May 11, 2004. soil cover in or along the edges of hurricanes) or manmade (e.g., human- Cyanea kunthiana is a shrub found in hammocks near sea level. The species is induced fires) threats throughout most closed Metrosideros-Dicranopteris (ohia- known to occur naturally only in two of its range. All of these threats have a uluhe) montane wet forest on Maui, areas, Swan Key within Biscayne significant effect on the survival of the Hawaii. The historic range of C. National Park and Little Torch Key. species. For these reasons, the kunthiana was wet forest on the island Outplantings have been attempted in magnitude of the current threats is high. of Maui. Currently, C. kunthiana is several locations in the upper and lower Additionally, all sites are located in declining throughout its range, and is Keys; however, success has been low. xeric environment vulnerable to human- known from 38 populations totaling Few plants remain in the population at induced fires. Only a few individuals between 475 and 675 individuals. This The Nature Conservancy’s Torchwood are located in protected lands managed species is threatened by pigs that Hammock Preserve on Little Torch Key. for conservation by the Puerto Rico directly prey upon the plants and During monitoring work conducted in Department of Natural and degrade and destroy habitat, and by 2005, a total of 655 plants were Environmental Resources or the Service. nonnative plants that outcompete and

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displace it. Potential threats to this pigs and cattle that degrade and destroy magnitude because of their severity and species include rats and slugs that may habitat, and nonnative plants that the fact that they occur in eight of the directly prey upon and defoliate outcompete and displace it. Potential 10 known populations. In addition, individuals. Predation and habitat threats to this species include predation these threats are imminent because they destruction significantly affect the by rats and slugs that may directly prey are ongoing. Therefore, we retained an continued existence of the species. upon and defoliate individuals, and LPN of 2 for this species. While large-scale fencing, ungulate human trampling of individuals located Cyrtandra kaulantha (Haiwale) – We removal, and invasive species control near trails. Feral pigs and cattle have have not updated our assessment for measures are underway in areas in been fenced out of three populations of this species, as we are currently which five of the current populations C. tritomantha, and nonnative plants developing a proposed listing rule. exist, these efforts have not served to have been reduced in the fenced areas. Cyrtandra oxybapha (Haiwale) – The completely remove these threats, and Although three populations of C. following summary is based on there are no efforts to control the tritomantha have been fenced and information contained in our files. No ongoing and imminent threats to the weeds are being controlled in these new information was provided in the remaining 33 populations. Therefore, fenced areas, there are no efforts to petition we received on May 11, 2004. the threats continue to be of a high control the ongoing and imminent Cyrtandra oxybapha is a shrub found in magnitude to C. kunthiana, and are threats to the other 13 populations. The Metrosideros polymorpha- imminent for more than eighty percent threats continue to be of a high Cheirodendron trigynum (ohia-olapa) of the populations. Therefore, we magnitude to C. tritomantha because montane wet forest to mesic Acacia- retained an LPN of 2 for this species. they significantly affect the species Metrosideros (koa-ohia) forest on Maui, Cyanea lanceolata (Haha) – We have resulting in direct mortality or reduced Hawaii. Currently, this species is known not updated our assessment for this reproductive capacity. They are ongoing from two populations totaling 73 to 123 species, as we are currently developing and therefore imminent for more than individuals on west Maui. This species a proposed listing rule. seventy-five percent of the population is threatened by pigs, goats, and cattle Cyanea obtusa (Haha) – The following where no control measures have been that degrade and destroy habitat, and by summary is based on information implemented. Because the threats nonnative plants that outcompete and contained in our files. No new continue to be of a high magnitude and displace it. Fire is a likely threat at the information was provided in the are imminent for the unmanaged Kahikinui population. The individuals petition we received on May 11, 2004. populations, we retained an LPN of 2 for within the fence at Kahikinui benefit Cyanea obtusa is a shrub found in this species. from management actions; however, the Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia) mixed remaining individuals there and on west mesic forest on Maui, Hawaii. This Cyrtandra filipes (Haiwale) – The Maui are threatened by pigs, goats, species is known from two populations following summary is based on cattle, and likely threatened by fire. The with a combined total of fewer than 24 information contained in our files. No threats are of a high magnitude because individuals. Cyanea obtusa is new information was provided in the of their severity and are imminent since threatened by feral goats, pigs, and petition we received on May 11, 2004. they are ongoing. Therefore, we retained cattle that degrade and destroy habitat, Haiwale is a shrub found in lowland to an LPN of 2 for C. oxybapha. and by nonnative plants that montane wet forest on Maui and Cyrtandra sessilis (Haiwale) – We outcompete and displace it. Potential Molokai, Hawaii. Historically rare, C. have not updated our assessment for threats include fire, and rats and slugs filipes was found in southeastern this species, as we are currently that may directly prey upon and Molokai and west Maui. Currently, this developing a proposed listing rule. defoliate individuals of C. obtusa. Feral species is known from 10 populations, Dalea carthagenensis floridana pigs have been fenced out of one 3 on Molokai and 7 on west Maui, (Florida prairie-clover) – The following population of this species, with totaling approximately 2,000 summary is based on information nonnative plant control in the fenced individuals. There is some question as contained in our files. No new area. Although one population of C. to the true identity of the Maui information was provided in the obtusa has been fenced and is populations, which do not fit the petition we received on May 11, 2004. undergoing weed control, there are no description of the species precisely. If, Dalea carthagenensis var. floridana efforts to control the ongoing and upon further taxonomic study, the Maui occurs in Big Cypress National Preserve imminent threats to the other populations are determined not to be (BCNP) in Monroe and Collier Counties, population. The threats continue to be this species, then it is even rarer, with Florida. It is also known from small of a high magnitude for C. obtusa only the Molokai populations of a few populations in Miami-Dade County. because they significantly affect the individuals remaining. Cyrtandra filipes There are a total of nine extant species resulting in direct mortality or is threatened by pigs, goats, and deer occurrences, most of which are on reduced reproductive capacity, and the that degrade and destroy habitat, by conservation land. Existing occurrences threats are ongoing. Therefore, we nonnative plants that outcompete and are extremely small and may not be retained an LPN of 2 for this species. displace it, and potentially by rats that viable, especially those in Miami-Dade Cyanea tritomantha (Aku) – The directly prey on it. Feral pigs have been County. Remaining habitats are following summary is based on fenced out of one of the populations of fragmented. This plant is threatened by information contained in our files. No C. filipes on Maui, and strategic fencing habitat loss and degradation due to fire new information was provided in the for axis deer is under construction on suppression, the difficulty of applying petition we received on May 11, 2004. west Maui, but deer are able to jump prescribed fire to pine rocklands, and Cyanea tritomantha is a palm-like tree over most pig exclusion fences so they threats from exotic plants. Damage to found in Metrosideros-Cibotium (ohia- are still considered a threat. Nonnative plants by off-road vehicles is a serious hapuu) montane wet forest on the island plants are being reduced in the threat within the BCNP; the threat from of Hawaii. This species is known from population that is fenced but all illegal mountain-biking at the R. Hardy 16 populations with a total of populations are potentially threatened Matheson Preserve has been reduced. approximately 300 to 400 individuals. by rats. The threats from pigs and One location within BCNP is threatened Cyanea tritomantha is threatened by nonnative plants are of a high by changes in mowing practices; this

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threat is considered to be low. This files. No new information was provided six sites in Arizona and Mexico. It species is being parasitized by the in the petition we received on May 11, occurs on well-drained gravel ridges introduced insect lobate lac scale at 2004. Florida pineland crabgrass occurs and knolls on granite soils in Sonoran some localities (e.g., R. Hardy Matheson in the pineland/prairie ecotones and Desert scrub association at 1300–2000 Preserve), but we do not know the prairies in Miami-Dade and Monroe feet elevation. extent of this threat. This plant is Counties, Florida. Pine rocklands in Habitat destruction has been a threat vulnerable to natural disturbances, such Miami-Dade County have largely been in the past and is a potential future as hurricanes, tropical storms, and destroyed by residential, commercial, threat to this species. New roads and storm surges. Due to its restricted range and urban development and agriculture. illegal activities have not yet directly and the small sizes of most isolated Most remaining habitat has been affected the cactus populations at Organ occurrences, this species is vulnerable negatively altered, and this species has Pipe Cactus National Monument, to environmental (catastrophic been extirpated from much of its Arizona, but areas in close proximity to hurricanes), demographic (potential historical range, including extirpation these known populations have been episodes of poor reproduction), and from all areas outside of National Parks. altered. Cactus populations located in genetic (potential inbreeding Two large occurrences remain within the Florence area (Arizona) have not depression) threats. The magnitude of Everglades National Park and Big been monitored, and these populations threats is high, and threats are imminent Cypress National Preserve. While may be in danger of habitat loss due to because of the limited number of privately owned pine rocklands and recent urban growth in the area. Urban occurrences and the small number of prairies are at risk to development, the development near Ajo, Arizona, as well individual plants at each occurrence. In plants on Federal lands are protected as that near Sonoyta, Mexico, is a addition, even though many sites are on from this threat. significant threat to the Acuna cactus. conservation lands, these plants still This species is threatened by habitat Populations of the Acuna cactus within face significant ongoing threats. loss and degradation due to fire the Organ Pipe Cactus National Therefore, we have assigned an LPN of suppression, the difficulty of applying Monument have shown a 50 percent 3 to this subspecies. prescribed fire to pine rocklands, and mortality rate in recent years. The Dichanthelium hirstii (Hirsts’ panic exotic plants. Since the only remaining reason(s) for the mortality are not grass) – The following summary is based populations are on lands managed by known, but continuing drought on information contained in our files. the National Park Service, the threats of conditions which are prevalent No new information was provided in fire suppression and exotics are throughout the range of the Acuna the petition we received on May 11, somewhat reduced. The presence of the cactus are thought to play a role. The 2004. D. hirstii is a perennial grass that exotic Old World climbing fern is of Arizona Plant Law and the Convention produces erect leafy flowering stems particular concern due to its ability to on International Trade in Endangered from May to October. D. hirstii occurs in spread rapidly. In Big Cypress National Species of Wild Fauna and Flora coastal plain intermittent ponds, usually Preserve, plants have been threatened provide some protection for the Acuna in wet savanna or pine barren habitats by off-road vehicle use. Another threat cactus. However, illegal collection is a and is found at only two sites in New is hydrology changes. Hydrology has primary threat to this cactus variety, and Jersey, one site in Delaware, and one been altered within Long Pine Key due has been documented on the Organ Pipe site in North Carolina. While all four to artificial drainage, which lowered Cactus National Monument in the past. extant D. hirstii populations are located ground water, and construction of roads, The threats continue to be of a high on public land or privately owned which either impounded or diverted magnitude as they have a significant conservation lands, natural threats to water. Regional water management negative impact to the long-term the species from encroaching vegetation intended to restore the Everglades has viability of this cactus as demonstrated and fluctuations in climatic conditions the potential to affect the pinelands of by the continued dramatic decline of the remain of concern and may be Long Pine Key, where a large population variety. The threats are imminent exacerbated by anthropomorphic factors occurs. At this time, it is not known because habitat loss from drought and occurring adjacent to the species’ whether Everglades restoration will urban development are ongoing. wetland habitat. Given the low numbers have a positive or negative effect. This Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 3 to of plants found at each site, even minor narrow endemic may be vulnerable to the Acuna cactus. changes in the species’ habitat could catastrophic events and natural Erigeron lemmonii (Lemmon fleabane) result in local extirpation. Loss of any disturbances, such as hurricanes. Sea – The following summary is based on known sites could result in a serious level rise will likely be a factor over the information contained in our files and protraction of the species’ range. long-term. Overall, the magnitude of the petition we received in July 1975. However, the most immediate and threats is high because occurrence of the The species is known from one site in severe of the threats to this species (i.e., species within the National Park has not a canyon in the Fort Huachuca Military ditching of the Laboundsky Pond site, eliminated such threats as exotic plants Reservation of southeastern Arizona. As and encroachment of aggressive and off-road vehicle use, which may of 2006, approximately 950 plants were vegetative competitors) have been negatively affect this species throughout known from this site, where the curtailed or are being actively managed its range. However, the majority of occupied habitat encompasses about 1 by The Nature Conservancy at one New threats are nonimminent as they are square kilometer. Jersey site and by the Delaware Division long-term in nature (water management, The threats to this species are from of Fish and Wildlife and Delaware hurricanes, and sea-level rise). catastrophic wildfire in the canyon and Natural Heritage Program at the Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 for ongoing drought conditions. We do not Assawoman Pond, Delaware site. Based this species. know if this species has any adaptations on nonimminent threats of a high Echinomastus erectocentrus var. to fire. Due to its location on cliffs, we magnitude, we retain an LPN of 5 for acunensis (Acuna cactus) – The suspect that fires may have occurred at this species. following summary is based on regular intervals and burned at low Digitaria pauciflora (Florida pineland information contained in our files and intensities, and thus may have had little crabgrass) – The following summary is the petition we received on October 30, to no effect on this species. It is due based on information contained in our 2002. The Acuna cactus is known from only to lack of fire and the accumulated

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fuel load that the fire intensity and files. No new information was provided threaten over half of the remaining associated heat may be high enough to in the petition we received on May 11, habitat. To date, regulatory mechanisms damage or kill plants on adjacent cliffs, 2004. Red Mountain buckwheat is a to protect the Las Vegas buckwheat are especially near the ground. On the other perennial herb endemic to serpentine inadequate. Its designation by the hand, plants that are much higher on habitat of lower montane forests found Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as the cliff face would probably not be between 1,900 and 4,100 feet. Its a special status species has not provided affected. The magnitude of threats is distribution is limited to the Red adequate protection on lands managed moderate because we believe that not all Mountain and Little Red Mountain areas by the BLM in large part due to of the population would be adversely of Mendocino County, California, where limitations on resources and law affected by a wildfire or drought. The it occupies a total of 50 acres and 900 enforcement personnel. The Las Vegas threats are imminent because the square feet, respectively. Occupied buckwheat is not protected by the State likelihood of a fire is high. The LPN for habitat at Red Mountain is scattered of Nevada or any other regulatory Lemmon fleabane remains an 8 due to over 4 square miles. Total population mechanisms on other federal lands. moderate, imminent threats. size is estimated at between 20,000 and Conservation measures are being Eriogonum codium (Umtanum Desert 30,000 plants, which occur in 44 developed that could reduce the amount buckwheat) – The following summary is polygons. Intensive monitoring of of occupied habitat at risk, but we based on information contained in our permanent plots on three study sites in believe it would be premature to files. No new information was provided Red Mountain suggests considerable consider these measures sufficiently in the petition we received on May 11, annual variation in plant density and complete as to remove these threats. The 2004. This species is a long-lived, slow- reproduction, but no discernable magnitude of threats is high, since the growing, woody perennial plant that population trend was evident in two of more significant threats (development forms low dense mats. The species three study sites. One study site showed and surface mining) would result in occupies a single location on the a 65 percent decline in plant density direct mortality of the plants in over Hanford National Monument in over 11 years. half of its habitat. While both Washington State. It is found only on an The primary threat to this species is development and mining are very likely exposed basalt ridge; we do not know if the potential for surface mining for to occur in the future, they are not this association is related to the chromium and nickel. Virtually the expected to happen in the immediate chemical or physical characteristics of entire distribution of Red Mountain future, and thus, the threats are the bedrock or other factors. Individual buckwheat is either owned by mining nonimminent. Accordingly, we assigned plants may exceed 100 years of age, interests, or is covered by existing the Las Vegas buckwheat an LPN of 6. based on counts of annual growth rings. mining claims, none of which are A count in 1997 reported 5,228 currently active. Surface mining would Festuca hawaiiensis (no common individuals; by 2005 the figure had destroy habitat suitability for this name) – The following summary is dropped to 4,418, declining 15% over species. The species is also believed based on information contained in our eight years. A population viability threatened by tree and shrub files. No new information was provided analysis in 2006 based on 9 years of encroachment into its habitat, in in the petition we received on May 11, demographic data estimated that that absence of fire. The threat of surface 2004. This species is a cespitose there is little or no risk of a population mining is high in magnitude because it (growing in dense, low tufts) annual decline greater than 90 percent within would prevent the continued existence found in dry forest on the island of 100 years, but there is a 72 percent of the species in the larger of two Hawaii. Festuca hawaiiensis is known chance of a decline of 50 percent. locations. That threat is nonimminent from four populations totaling The major threats to the species are because none of the mining claims are approximately 1,000 individuals in and wildfire, fire-fighting activities, active. Because of the high-magnitude, around the Pohakuloa Training Area trampling, and invasive weeds. nonimminent threat to the small, (PTA). Historically, this species was However, the relationship between the scattered populations, we assigned a also found on Hualalai and Puu decline in population numbers and the listing priority number of 5 to this Huluhulu on Hawaii and possibly known threats is not understood at this species. Ulupalakua on Maui, but it no longer time. With the possible exception of Eriogonum corymbosum var. nilesii occurs at these sites. Festuca wildfire, the observed decline in (Las Vegas buckwheat) – The following hawaiiensis is threatened by pigs, goats, population numbers and recruitment summary is based on information mouflon, and sheep that degrade and since 1997 is not directly attributable to contained in our files and the petition destroy habitat; fire; military training the currently known threats. Because we received on April 23, 2008. The Las activities; and nonnative plants that the population is small, limited to a Vegas buckwheat is a woody perennial outcompete and displace it. Feral pigs, single site, and sensitive to fire and shrub restricted to gypsum soil goats, mouflon, and sheep have been disturbance, the species remains outcroppings in Clark and Lincoln fenced out of a portion of the vulnerable to the identified threats. The Counties, Nevada. populations of F. hawaiiensis, and magnitude of threats is high because, Destruction and modification of nonnative plants have been reduced in given the limited range of the species habitat from development is a the fenced areas but the majority of this and the degree of uncertainty about its significant threat with over 95 percent population is still impacted by threats habitat and the cause of its declines, any of the historic range and potential from fire and will require long-term of the threats could adversely affect its habitat of the subspecies affected. In monitoring and management. The continued existence. The threats are 2005, the Las Vegas buckwheat was threats are imminent because they are both ongoing and imminent in nature. known from nine locations on not controlled and are ongoing in the Because the species continues to be approximately 1,149 acres, but occupied remaining, unfenced populations. vulnerable to these threats, we assigned habitat has declined since then to 892 Firebreaks have been established at two an LPN of 2 to this species. acres due to development. In addition, other populations but again fire is an Eriogonum kelloggii (Red Mountain OHV activity and other public land uses imminent threat to the other two buckwheat) – The following summary is (casual public use, mining, and populations that have no firebreaks. The based on information contained in our dumping) directly and indirectly threats are of a high magnitude because

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they could adversely affect F. or reduced reproductive capacity. Rico is apparently no longer extant. The hawaiiensis resulting in direct mortality Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for entire population located at one site or reduced reproductive capacity. this species. consists of approximately 172 Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for Geranium hanaense (Nohoanu) – The individuals. Habitat destruction from this species. following summary is based on construction of roads and Festuca ligulata (Guadalupe fescue) – information contained in our files. No telecommunication towers, certain The following summary is based on new information was provided in the forest management practices such as the information contained in our files and petition we received on May 11, 2004. development and maintenance of trails, the petition we received in 1975. Geranium hanaense is threatened by and potential for catastrophic natural Guadalupe fescue is a member of the pigs that degrade and destroy habitat, events threaten this species. Its Poaceae (grass family). This species is and by nonnative plants that restricted distribution renders this currently only known from higher outcompete and displace it. However, species highly vulnerable to natural elevations in the Chisos Mountains in feral pigs have been fenced out of and (e.g., hurricanes, landslides) or the Big Bend Area of Texas (one removed from both bogs in which this manmade (e.g., telecommunication population) and adjacent Coahuila, species currently occurs, and a control towers, forest management practices) Mexico (two populations). The program has reduced nonnative plants threats to its habitat and population, population in Big Bend National Park is in all fenced areas. Given that the thus making the threat magnitude high. bisected by a trail and subject to threats to the only known populations This species is classified as critical by occasional trampling by horses and of this species are currently being Puerto Rico Department of Natural and hikers and may be impacted by the lack managed and the populations are Environmental Resources (PRDNER); of proper fire management. A new routinely monitored, the overall however, this designation does not Candidate Conservation Agreement magnitude of these threats is moderate. provide any regulatory protection. The between the Service and the National The threats are imminent because the PRDNER developed a management plan Park Service provides for additional fences must be routinely monitored and for the Carite Commonwealth Forest in conservation efforts, population nonnative plants must continually be 1976, which includes the protection and monitoring, fire management, and trail controlled. Therefore, we retained an conservation of species classified under operation by the National Park Service; LPN of 8 for this species. PRDNER regulations as critical, these actions partially address threats to Geranium hillebrandii (Nohoanu) – threatened, or endangered, but it does the species. Overall, the magnitude of The following summary is based on not include specific measures for the the threats of trampling and lack of information contained in our files. No protection of this species. Generally, proper fire management is moderate to new information was provided in the PRDNER scrutinizes any actions that low and nonimminent because of the petition we received on May 11, 2004. may affect species classified as critical, actions under this agreement. Thus, we Geranium hillebrandii is a decumbent and recommends or implements assign a LPN of 11 to this species. subshrub found in bogs on Maui, measures to minimize or avoid impacts Gardenia remyi (Nanu) – The Hawaii. It is currently known from three to these species if deemed appropriate. following summary is based on populations totaling approximately The immediacy of the threats from information contained in our files. No 10,000 individuals. Geranium building roads and towers and new information was provided in the hillebrandii is threatened by pigs that developing and maintaining trails is petition we received on May 11, 2004. degrade and destroy habitat, and by thus nonimminent. Therefore, we have Nanu is a tree found in mesic to wet nonnative plants that outcompete and assigned a listing priority number of 5 forest on islands of Kauai, Molokai, displace it. Conservation measures for Gonocalyx concolor. Maui, and Hawaii, Hawaii. Gardenia taken to control feral pigs and nonnative Hazardia orcuttii (Orcutt’s hazardia) – remyi is known from 20 populations plants reduce the impact of these threats The following summary is based on totaling between 77 and 104 to G. hillebrandii; however, continued information contained in our files and individuals. This species is threatened monitoring will be necessary to keep the the petition we received on March 8, by pigs, goats, and deer that degrade and areas threat-free. The threats from feral 2001. Hazardia orcuttii is an evergreen destroy habitat and possibly prey upon pigs and nonnative plants are, therefore, shrubby species in the Asteraceae the species, and by nonnative plants of a moderate magnitude to this species; (sunflower family). The only known that outcompete and displace it. It is however, these threats are imminent extant native occurrence of this species also threatened by landslides on the because they are ongoing in half of the in the U.S. is in the Manchester island of Hawaii. This species is populations and require continued Conservation Area in northwestern San represented in an ex-situ collection. monitoring in the other half. Therefore, Diego County, California. This site is Feral pigs have been fenced out of the we retained an LPN of 8 for this species. managed by Center for Natural Lands west Maui populations of G. remyi, and Gonocalyx concolor (no common Management. Hazardia orcuttii also nonnative plants have been reduced in name) – The following summary is occurs at a few coastal sites in Mexico, those areas. However, these threats are based on information contained in our where it has no conservation protections not controlled and are ongoing in the files. No new information was provided in Mexico. There are approximately 668 remaining, unfenced populations, and in the petition we received on May 11, native adult plants and 50 seedlings are, therefore, imminent. In addition, 2004. Gonocalyx concolor is a small remaining in the U.S., and the the threat from goats and deer is evergreen epiphytic shrub. Currently, G. population in Mexico is estimated at ongoing and imminent throughout the concolor is known only from the dwarf approximately 1300 plants. range of the species, because no goat or or elfin forest type in the Carite The occurrences in Mexico are deer control measures have been Commonwealth Forest (Cerro La Santa), threatened by the rapid rate of coastal undertaken for any of the populations of located in the Sierra de Cayey in the development from Tijuana to Ensenada. G. remyi. All of the threats are of a high municipalities of Guayama, Cayey, Apparent threats to the U.S. population magnitude because habitat destruction, Caguas, San Lorenzo, and Patillas in include ongoing pedestrian trampling, predation, and landslides are significant southeastern Puerto Rico. The impacts from on and off-leash dogs, and enough that they could adversely affect population previously reported in the creation of bicycle trails near Hazardia the species resulting in direct mortality Caribbean National Forest in Puerto orcuttii plants. Competition from

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invasive nonnative plants may pose a their location within a conservation to protect this land in perpetuity. In east threat to the reproductive potential of easement area; however, only 15 to 20 Houston County, a population this species. Another significant threat plants are estimated to occur at this site. discovered in Compartment 55 in Davy is the species’ apparently low We assigned an LPN of 5 to this species, Crockett National Forest numbered over reproductive output; in a recent study, as the magnitude of threats is high, 1,000 in 2006. In 2000, nearly 800 95 percent of the flowers examined were since there are only five populations plants were introduced into damaged by insects or fungal agents or and only one of these is under any Compartments 16 and 20 of Davy aborted prematurely, and insects or protection from threats that could Crockett National Forest as part of a fungal agents damaged 50 percent of the eliminate the continued existence of the reintroduction effort. One population seeds produced. Overall, the threats are other populations; the threats are retained high numbers (350 in 2006), of a high magnitude since they have the nonimminent, since the whorled but sustained high water in 2007, and potential to significantly reduce the sunflower appears to withstand some may have been adversely affected. The reproductive potential of this species. disturbance and there are no known second site was affected by a change in The threats are nonimminent overall immediate threats to the sites. hydrology, and had declined to 50 because although trampling and other Hibiscus dasycalyx (Neches River plants in 2006. In 2004, 200 plants were recreational impacts are ongoing, the rose-mallow) – The following summary placed in a wetland in Compartment 11 most significant threats (competition is based on information contained in of Davy Crockett National Forest, but and low reproductive output) are our files. No new information was only 10 plants were seen in 2006. High nonimminent and long-term in nature. provided in the petition received on water from heavy spring and summer Thus, we assigned this species a LPN of May 11, 2004. This mallow species, rains prevented further assessment of 5. found in Cherokee, Houston, and these rose-mallow sites in 2007. Hedyotis fluviatilis (Kamapuaa) – The Trinity Counties, Texas, appears to be The threats continue to be of a high following summary is based on restricted to portions of wetlands that magnitude because they can severely information contained in our files. No are exposed to open sun and normally affect the survival and reproductive new information was provided in the hold standing water early in the growing capacity of the species. Overall, the petition we received on May 11, 2004. season, with water levels dropping threats are nonimminent since they are Kamapuaa is a scandent shrub found in during late summer and fall. Habitat has not currently affecting or likely to affect mixed shrubland to wet lowland forest been affected by drainage or filling of the majority of the populations of this on Oahu and Kauai, Hawaii. This floodplain depressions and oxbows, species in the immediate future. Thus, species is known from 12 populations stream channelization, road we have retained an LPN of 5 for the totaling 1,000 to 1,400 individuals. construction, timber harvesting, Neches River rose-mallow. Hedyotis fluviatilis is threatened by pigs agricultural activities (primarily Ivesia webberi (Webber ivesia) – The and goats that degrade and destroy mowing and grazing), and herbicide use. following summary is based on habitat, and by nonnative plants that Threats that continue to affect the information contained in our files. No outcompete and displace it. All of the species include wetland alteration, new information was provided in the threats occur range-wide, and no efforts herbicide use, grazing, mowing during petition we received on May 11, 2004. for their control or eradication are being the species’ growing and flowering Ivesia webberi is a low, spreading, undertaken. Displacement and habitat period, and genetic swamping by other perennial herb that occurs very destruction have a negative impact on Hibiscus species. infrequently in Lassen, Plumas, and the continued existence of the species. A 1995 status survey of 10 counties Sierra counties in California, and in We retained an LPN of 2 because the resulted in confirmation of the species Douglas and Washoe counties, Nevada. severity of the threats is high and the at only three sites, but in three separate The species is restricted to sites with threats are ongoing so are imminent. counties and three different watersheds, sparse vegetation and shallow, rocky Helianthus verticillatus (Whorled suggesting a relatively wide historical soils composed of volcanic ash or sunflower) – The following summary is range. These three populations were all derived from andesitic rock. Occupied based on information contained in our within highway rights-of-way and sites generally occur on mid-elevation files. No new information was provided vulnerable to herbicides and adjacent flats, benches, or terraces on mountain in the petition we received on May 11, agricultural activities. As of 2005, only slopes above large valleys along the 2004. The whorled sunflower is found 20 plants remained at one of these sites. transition zone between the eastern edge in moist, prairie-like openings in Additional surveys for H. dasycalyx of the northern Sierra Nevada and the woodlands and along adjacent creeks. resulted in identifying new populations. northwestern edge of the Great Basin Despite extensive surveys throughout its About 300 plants were found on land Desert. Currently, the global population range, only five populations are known: owned by Temple-Inland Corporation in is estimated at approximately 4.8 two populations in Cherokee County, east Trinity County. A Candidate million individuals at 15 known sites. Alabama; one population in Floyd Conservation Agreement was developed The Nevada sites support nearly 98 County, Georgia; and one each in for this site, but smaller plant numbers percent of the total number of Madison and McNairy Counties, have been seen in recent years, possibly individuals (4.7 million) on about 30 Tennessee. This species appears to have due to changes in the wetland’s acres of occupied habitat. The California restricted ecological requirements and is hydrology. Another site discovered on sites are larger in area, totaling about dependent upon the maintenance of land previously owned by Champion 156 acres, but support fewer individuals prairie-like openings for its survival. International Corporation (near White (approximately 115,000). Much of its habitat has been degraded Rock Creek in west Trinity County) once The primary threats to Webber ivesia or destroyed for agricultural, supported 300-400 plants; this site was include urban development, authorized silvicultural, and residential purposes. modified in 2007, and was reassessed in and unauthorized roads, off-road Populations near roadsides or 2008, but data is still being analyzed. In vehicle activities and other dispersed powerlines are threatened by herbicide west Houston County, a population of recreation, livestock grazing and usage in association with right-of-way 300 to 400 plants discovered on private trampling, fire and fire suppression maintenance. The majority of the land has been purchased by the Natural activities including fuels reduction and Georgia population is protected due to Area Preservation Association in order prescribed fires, and displacement by

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noxious weeds. Despite the high this species, as we are currently from three sites due to glauconite numbers of individuals, observations in developing a proposed listing rule. mining. Two sites are currently closed 2002 and 2004 confirmed that direct Leavenworthia crassa (Gladecress) – to visitors. The Sabine County site and indirect impacts to the species and The following information is based on supported 1,000 plants within 9 square its habitat, specifically from urban information contained in our files. No meters (97 square feet) in 2007. The development and off-highway vehicle new information was provided in the Tiger Creek site in San Augustine activity, remain high and are likely to petition we received on May 11, 2004. County (less than 0.1 hectare (.2 acre) in increase. Therefore, the magnitude of This species of gladecress is a size) was found to have about 200 these threats is high. The U.S. Forest component of glade flora, occurring in gladecress in 2007. The Kardell site (less Service has committed to develop a association with limestone than 9 square meters (97 square feet)) conservation strategy and monitoring outcroppings. Leavenworthia crassa is has supported 400-500 plants in past program to protect this species on endemic to a 13-mile radius area in years, but none in 2005. An introduced National Forest lands, and the State of Lawrence and Morgan Counties, population in Nacogdoches County Nevada has listed the species as Alabama, where only six populations of numbered about 1,000 within an area of critically endangered, which provides a this species are documented. Glade about 18 square meters (194 square feet) mechanism to track future impacts on habitats today have been reduced to in 2007. private lands. In addition, both the remnants fragmented by agriculture and Historic gladecress habitat has been Forest Service and State of Nevada have development. Populations of this affected by highway construction, agreed to coordinate closely with the species are now located in glade-like residential development, conversion to Fish and Wildlife Service on all areas exhibiting various degrees of pasture and cropland, widespread use of activities that may affect this species. In disturbance including pastureland, herbicide, overgrazing, and glauconite light of these conservation roadside rights-of-way, and cultivated or mining. The primary threat to existing commitments, we have determined that plowed fields. The most vigorous gladecress populations is the invasion of the threats to Webber ivesia are populations of this species are located nonnative and weedy shrubs and vines nonimminent and the LPN remains a 5. in areas which receive full, or near full, (primarily Macartney rose (Rosa Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens sunlight with limited herbaceous bracteata) and Japanese honeysuckle (Ohe) – The following summary is based competition. The magnitude of threat is (Lonicera japonica)). All known sites are on information contained in our files. high because with the limited number of undergoing severe degradation by the populations, the threats from herbicide incursion of nonnative shrubs and No new information was provided in use, and degradation of habitat by vines, which restrict both growth and the petition we received on May 11, dumping, ATV use, and competition reproduction of the gladecress. Brush 2004. Ohe is an erect herb found in wet from other plants including nonnative clearing carried out in 1995 resulted in to mesic Metrosideros polymorpha- species, could result in direct mortality the reappearance of gladecress after a Acacia koa (ohia-koa) forest on the or reduced reproductive capacity of the 10–year absence at one site. However, islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, species. This species appears to be able nonnative shrubs have again invaded and Hawaii, Hawaii. Ohe is known from to adjust to periodic disturbances and this area. More effective control 38 populations totaling approximately the potential impacts to populations measures for nonnative species, such as 180 individuals throughout its range. from competition, exotics, and herbicide burning and selective herbicide use, Plants are typically found as only one or use are nonimminent. In addition, at need to be tested and monitored. The two individuals, with miles between this time, we know of no projects small number of known sites also makes populations. This subspecies is planned in the area that would lead to the gladecress vulnerable to extreme threatened by destruction or the destruction of habitat where this natural disturbance events. A severe modification of habitat due to pigs, species is currently located. Thus, we drought in 1999 and 2000 had a goats, and deer, and by nonnative plants assigned an LPN of 5 to this species. pronounced adverse effect on gladecress that outcompete and displace native Leavenworthia texana (Texas golden reproduction. Since the threat from plants. Predation by pigs, goats, deer, gladecress) – The following summary is nonnative plants severely affects all and rats is a likely threat to this species. based on information contained in our known sites, the magnitude of threats is Seedlings have rarely been observed in files. No new information was provided high. The threats are imminent, since the wild. Seeds germinate in cultivation, in the petition we received on May 11, they are ongoing. Therefore, we retain but most die soon thereafter. It is 2004. The gladecress occurs only on the an LPN of 2 for the Texas golden uncertain if this rarity of reproduction is Weches outcrops of east Texas in San gladecress. typical of this subspecies, or if it is Augustine and Sabine counties. The Lesquerella globosa (Desvaux) Watson related to habitat disturbance. Feral pigs Weches geologic formation consists of a (Short’s bladderpod) – The following have been fenced out of a few of the layer of calcareous sediment, lying summary is based on information populations of this subspecies, and above a layer of glauconite clay contained in our files. No new nonnative plants have been reduced in deposited up to 50 million years ago. information was provided in the a few populations that are fenced. Erosion of this complex has produced petition we received on May 11, 2004. However, these threats are not topography of steep, flat-topped hills Short’s bladderpod is a perennial controlled and are ongoing in the many and escarpments, as well as the unique member of the mustard family that remaining, unfenced populations. The ecology of Weches glades: islands of occurs in Indiana (1 location), Kentucky threats are of high magnitude because thin, loamy, seepy, alkaline soils that (6 locations), and Tennessee (18 habitat degradation, nonnative plants support open-sun, herbaceous, and locations). It grows on steep, rocky, and predation could affect the ability of highly diverse and specialized plant wooded slopes, talus areas, along cliff the subspecies to survive. The threats communities. tops and bases, and on cliff ledges. It is are ongoing, and thus are imminent. The gladecress was historically usually associated with south to west Therefore, we retained an LPN of 3 for recorded at eight sites, all in a narrow facing calcareous outcrops adjacent to this subspecies. region along north San Augustine and rivers or streams. Road construction and Korthalsella degeneri (Hulumoa) – We Sabine counties. All sites are on private road maintenance have played a have not updated our assessment for land. The species has been extirpated significant role in the decline of L.

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globosa. Specific activities that have fragmented nature of the current species, as we are currently developing affected the species in the past and may population, stochastic events, disease, a proposed listing rule for this species. continue to threaten it include bank or genetic bottlenecks may strongly Melicope makahae (Alani) – We have stabilization, herbicide use, mowing affect this species. Reduced pollinator not updated our assessment for this during the growing season, grading of activity and suppression of pollinator species, as we are currently developing road shoulders, and road widening or populations from pesticides used in a proposed listing rule. repaving. Sediment deposition during mosquito control and decreased seed Myrsine fosbergii (Kolea) – The road maintenance or from other production due to increased seed following summary is based on activities also potentially threatens the predation in a fragmented wildland information contained in our files. No species. Because the natural processes urban interface may also affect sand new information was provided in the that maintained habitat suitability and flax; however, not enough information petition we received on May 11, 2004. competition from invasive nonnative is known on this species’ reproductive Myrsine fosbergii is a branched shrub or vegetation have been interrupted at biology or life history to assess these small tree found in cloud swept ridges many locations, active habitat potential threats. Overall, the magnitude and wet forest on Kauai and Oahu, management is necessary at those sites. of threats is high because they are all Hawaii. This species is currently known The threats are high in magnitude present habitat modifications that limit from 11 populations totaling because they have the potential to the continued existence of the species, approximately 58 individuals on Kauai significantly affect the survival and and most threats are ongoing and thus and from 8 populations totaling between reproductive capacity of the species, in are imminent. Therefore, we assigned an 73 and 83 individuals in the Koolau particular since many of the populations LPN of 2 to this species. Mountains of Oahu. Myrsine fosbergii is are small. Based upon the number of Linum carteri var. carteri (Carter’s threatened by feral pigs and goats that populations and the anticipation that small-flowered flax) – The following degrade and destroy habitat and may most of these threats will not be realized summary is based on information prey upon the plant, and nonnative in the next several years, the threats are contained in our files. No new plants that compete for light and nonimminent. Therefore, we assigned information was provided in the nutrients. Although there are plans to an LPN of 5 to this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. fence and remove ungulates from the Linum arenicola (Sand flax) – The This plant occupies open sites in Helemano area of Oahu, which may following summary is based on pinelands of Miami-Dade County, benefit this species, no conservation information contained in our files. No Florida. Currently, there are 10 known measures have been taken to date to new information was provided in the occurrences. Occurrences with fewer alleviate these threats for this species. petition we received on May 11, 2004. than 100 individuals are located on Feral pigs and goats are found Sand flax is found in pine rockland and three county-owned preserves. A site throughout the known range of M. marl prairie habitats which requires with more than 100 plants is owned by fosbergii, as are nonnative plants. The periodic wildfires in order to maintain the U.S. government, but the site is not threats from feral pigs, goats, and an open, shrub free subcanopy and managed for conservation. The 10 nonnative plants are of a high reduce litter levels. Based upon existing occurrences are small and magnitude because they pose a severe available data, there are 11 extant vulnerable to habitat loss, which is threat throughout the limited range of occurrences of sand flax; 11 others are exacerbated by habitat degradation due this species, and they are ongoing and extirpated or destroyed. Only small and to fire suppression, the difficulty of therefore imminent. We retained an LPN isolated occurrences remain in a applying prescribed fire to pine of 2 for this species. restricted range of southern Florida and rocklands, and threats from exotic Myrsine vaccinioides (Kolea) – The the Florida Keys. plants. Remaining habitats are following summary is based on Habitat loss and degradation due to fragmented. Non-compatible information contained in our files. No development is a major threat; most of management practices are also a threat new information was provided in the the remaining occurrences are on at most protected sites; several sites are petition we received on May 11, 2004. private land or non-conservation public mowed during the flowering and Myrsine vaccinioides is a small land. However, much of the pine fruiting season. The species is branched shrub found in shrubby bogs rocklands on Big Pine Key are protected vulnerable to natural disturbances, such on Maui, Hawaii. This species is found from development. Nearly all remaining as hurricanes, tropical storms, and scattered throughout the bogs of west populations are threatened by fire storm surges. This species exists in such Maui, totaling approximately 500 suppression, difficulty in applying small numbers at so few sites, that it individuals. Myrsine vaccinioides is prescribed fire, road maintenance may be difficult to develop and threatened by feral pigs that degrade activities, exotic species, or illegal maintain viable occurrences on the and destroy habitat, and nonnative dumping. However, some efforts are available conservation lands. Although plants that compete for light and underway to use prescribed fire and no population viability analysis has nutrients. Pig exclusion fences protect control exotics on conservation lands been conducted for this plant, some individuals of this species, and where this species occurs. Sand flax is indications are that existing occurrences nonnative plants have been reduced vulnerable to natural disturbances, such are at best marginal and it is possible around some individuals that are as hurricanes, tropical storms, and that none are truly viable. As a result, fenced. However, these ongoing storm surges. Hurricane Wilma the magnitude of threats is high. The conservation efforts benefit only a small inundated most of its habitat on Big threats are ongoing, and thus are number of the known individuals. Pine Key in 2005, and plants were not imminent. Therefore, we assigned an Further, nonnative plants will probably found 8–9 weeks post-storm; the density LPN of 3 to this plant variety. never be completely eradicated because of sand flax declined to zero in all Melicope christophersenii (Alani) – new propagules are constantly being management units at The Nature We have not updated our assessment for dispersed into the fenced areas from Conservancy’s preserve in 2006. We also this species, as we are currently surrounding, unmanaged lands. The consider sea level rise to be a substantial developing a proposed listing rule. threats are of a high magnitude because threat that will reduce the extent of Melicope hiiakae (Alani) – We have they pose a severe threat throughout the upland habitats. Due to the small and not updated our assessment for this limited range of the species and are

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ongoing, and thus imminent. Therefore, remaining 5 percent of known extant the islands of Maui and Hawaii. The we retained an LPN of 2 for this species. sites occur on federal lands. The threats threat from fire is of a high magnitude Narthecium americanum (Bog are imminent because conversion to and imminent because no control asphodel) – The following summary is cranberry bogs, natural succession, measures have been undertaken to based on information contained in our wildfire suppression, recreational address this threat that could adversely files. No new information was provided impacts, and erosion are all ongoing. affect O. haleakalae as a whole. The in the petition we received on May 11, Overall, based on these imminent, threats from feral pigs, goats, and cattle 2004. Bog asphodel is a perennial herb moderate threats, we retain a listing are ongoing to the unfenced populations that is found in savannah areas, usually priority number of 8 for this species. of O. haleakalae. The threat from with water moving through the Nothocestrum latifolium (Aiea) – The nonnative plants is ongoing and substrate, as well as in sandy bogs along following summary is based on imminent, and of a high magnitude to streams and rivers. The historic range of information contained in our files. No the wild populations on both islands, bog asphodel included New York, New new information was provided in the since this threat has the potential to Jersey, Delaware, North Carolina, and petition we received on May 11, 2004. adversely affect the continued existence South Carolina, but it is now only found Aiea is a small tree found in dry to of this species. Therefore, we retained within the Pine Barrens region of New mesic forest and diverse mesic forests an LPN of 2 for this species. Jersey. on Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, and Pediocactus peeblesianus var. As an obligate wetland species, N. Lanai, Hawaii. Nothocestrum latifolium fickeiseniae (Fickeisen plains cactus) – americanum is threatened by changes in is known from 20 populations totaling The following summary is based on hydrology, loss of habitat due to filling fewer than 1,100 individuals. This information contained in our files. No or draining of wetlands, flooding as a species is threatened by feral pigs, goats, new information was provided in the result of reservoir construction, and and axis deer that degrade and destroy petition we received on May 11, 2004. conversion of natural wetlands to habitat and may prey upon it; by The Fickeisen plains cactus is a small commercial cranberry bogs. In the Pine nonnative plants that compete for light cactus known from the Gray Mountain Barrens region, the Pinelands and nutrients; and by the loss of vicinity to the Arizona strip in Commission is responsible for issuing pollinators that negatively affect the Coconino, Navajo, and Mohave the State-assumed Clean Water Act reproductive viability of the species. Counties, Arizona. The cactus grows on Section 404 permits. The Pinelands Ungulates have been fenced out of some exposed layers of Kaibab limestone on Commission grants wetland exemptions areas where N. latifolium currently to cranberry production and other occurs, and nonnative plants have been canyon margins and well-drained hills agricultural uses. However, illegal reduced in some populations that are in Navajoan desert or grassland. In 1999, wetland filling is occurring. For fenced. However, these ongoing the Arizona Game and Fish Department example, a cranberry expansion was conservation efforts for this species noted 23 occurrences of the species, illegally completed without a State benefit only a few of the known including historical ones. The species is permit a few years ago. In addition, populations. The threats are not located on Bureau of Land Management activities not needing State or federal controlled and are ongoing in the (BLM), Forest Service, tribal, and permits are occurring in uplands that remaining unfenced populations. In possibly State lands. Recent reports are indirectly affecting the wetlands. In addition, little regeneration is observed from the BLM and Navajo Nation wetlands supporting bog asphodel, in this species. The threats are of a high describe populations of the species as natural succession of vegetation from magnitude, since they are severe enough being in decline. The main human- emergent (herbaceous) to forested to affect the continued existence of the induced threats to this cactus are off- wetlands may also be contributing to the species. The threats are imminent, since road vehicles and trampling associated species’ decline. Suppression of natural they are ongoing. Therefore, we retained with livestock grazing. Monitoring data wildfires that would retard succession an LPN of 2 for this species. has detected mortality associated with or create open wetland savannahs may Ochrosia haleakalae (Holei) – The livestock grazing. Illegal collection of be a factor in the decline of the species. following summary is based on this species has been noted in the past, Other factors adversely affecting N. information contained in our files. No but we do not know if it is a continuing americanum include trampling, erosion, new information was provided in the threat. The populations that have been and siltation caused by recreationists on petition we received on May 11, 2004. monitored have been affected, in part, foot or using off-road vehicles. Holei is a tree found often on lava in dry by the continuing drought. There has Approximately 75 percent of known to mesic forest on the islands of Hawaii been very low recruitment, and rabbits extant populations occur on State- and Maui, Hawaii. This species is and rodents have consumed adult owned lands. These populations are currently known from 11 populations plants, since there is reduced forage threatened by recreational use and totaling fewer than 130 individuals. available to these animals during erosion, which are moderate threat Ochrosia haleakalae is threatened by drought conditions. Given that there are because they are localized and fire; by feral pigs, goats, and cattle that only a few known populations, that the occasional. We are working with the degrade and destroy habitat and may range of this taxon is limited, and that New Jersey Department of directly prey upon it; and by nonnative the majority of the known populations Environmental Protection to abate these plants that compete for light and on BLM lands and the Navajo Nation are threats. Approximately 20 percent of the nutrients. Feral pigs, goats, and cattle experiencing declines in populations as known extant sites are on privately have been fenced out of one wild and a result of the combined threats, we owned lands, many of which are one outplanted population on private conclude that the threats are of a high threatened by habitat degradation from lands on the island of Maui and one magnitude. Since all of the locations of on-site or adjacent residential or outplanted population in Hawaii this variety on BLM lands are within commercial development. These threats Volcanoes National Park on the island grazing allotments and the monitoring could eliminate the bog asphodel from of Hawaii. Nonnative plants have been data provide evidence that trampling of those sites, but because they only reduced in the fenced areas. No known plants does occur, these threats are represent 20 percent of the occurrences, conservation measures have been taken ongoing. Therefore, we assigned this the threats are moderate overall. The to date for the remaining populations on plant variety an LPN of 3.

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Penstemon debilis (Parachute magnitude because they pose a threats are moderate because the beardtongue) – We have not updated significant threat to the species resulting conservation efforts, for over half of the our assessment for this species, as we in direct mortality or reduced populations, reduces the severity of the are currently developing a proposed reproductive capacity, and are ongoing threats. The threats are ongoing in the listing rule. and therefore imminent. Therefore, we unfenced portions and must be Penstemon scariosus var. albifluvis retained an LPN of 2 for this species. constantly managed in the fenced (White River beardtongue) - The Phacelia submutica (DeBeque portions. Therefore, the threats are following summary is based on phacelia) – We have not updated our imminent. We retained an LPN of 8 information contained in our files and assessment for this species, as we are because the threats are of moderate the petition we received on October 27, currently developing a proposed listing magnitude and are imminent for the 1983. The White River beardtongue is rule. majority of the populations. restricted to calcareous soils derived Phyllostegia bracteata (no common Physaria tuplashensis (White Bluffs from oil shale barrens of the Green River name) – The following summary is bladder-pod) – The following summary Formation in the Uinta Basin of based on information contained in our is based on information contained in northeastern Utah and adjacent files. No new information was provided our files. No new information was Colorado. There are 14 occurrences in the petition we received on May 11, provided in the petition we received on known in Utah and 1 in Colorado. Most 2004. Phyllostegia bracteata is a May 11, 2004. White Bluffs bladder-pod of the occupied habitat of the White scandent perennial herb found in is a low-growing, herbaceous, short- River beardtongue is within developed Metrosideros-Cheirodendron- lived, perennial plant in the and expanding oil and gas fields. The Dicranopteris (ohia-olapa-uluhe) Brassicaceae (mustard) family. location of the species’ habitat exposes montane wet forest on the island of Historically and currently, White Bluffs it to destruction from road, pipeline, Maui, Hawaii. Currently this species is bladder-pod has only been known from known from five populations totaling no and well-site construction in connection a single population that occurs along the more than 12 to 17 individuals on east with oil and gas development. White Bluffs of the Columbia River in and west Maui. Phyllostegia bracteata is Recreational off-road vehicle use, heavy Franklin County, Washington. The threatened by feral pigs that may grazing by livestock, and wildlife and entire range of the species is a narrow directly prey upon it and degrade and livestock trampling are additional band, approximately 33 feet (10 meters) destroy habitat, nonnative plants that potential threats. The threats are of high wide by 10.6 miles (17 kilometers) long, compete for light and nutrients, and magnitude because they involve habitat at the upper edge of the bluffs. The destruction that could limit the reduced reproductive vigor and species occurs only on cemented, highly continued existence of this plant randomly occurring natural events. The alkaline, calcium carbonate paleosol (a variety. The threats are nonimmient threats to P. bracteata from pigs and ‘‘caliche’’ soil) and is believed to be a because increased threats associated nonnative plants are of a high ‘‘calciphile.’’ with oil and gas and oil shale magnitude and imminent because in development will probably not be light of their severity and the limited Approximately 35 percent of the increasing substantially within the next population size of the species, they pose known range of the species has been year. Oil shale development remains a risk to the species range-wide, are moderately to severely affected by uncertain within the species’ habitat, ongoing, and are not subject to any landslides, an apparently permanent and is not expected to be a significant control efforts. Therefore, we retained destruction of the habitat. The entire factor in the near term. Therefore, based an LPN of 2 for this species. population of the species is down-slope on current information, we retained an Phyllostegia floribunda (no common of irrigated agricultural land, the source LPN of 6. name) – The following summary is of the water seepage causing the mass Peperomia subpetiolata (Ala ala wai based on information contained in our failures and landslides. Other nui) – The following summary is based files. No new information was provided significant threats include the presence on information contained in our files. in the petition we received on May 11, of invasive plants, and some potential No new information was provided in 2004. This species is an erect subshrub use of the habitat by recreational off the petition we received on May 11, found in mesic to wet forest on the road vehicles. While P. tuplashensis is 2004. Ala ala wai nui is a short-lived island of Hawaii, Hawaii. This species inherently vulnerable because it is a perennial herb found in montane mesic is known from 10 locations totaling narrow endemic, the threats are forest on Maui, Hawaii. This species is fewer than 270 naturally occurring and nonimminent since they are unlikely to known from one occurrence consisting outplanted individuals on State, private, occur in the immediate future, except of two subpopulations on windward and Federal lands. Phyllostegia the threat from invasive plants. Invasive east Maui, totaling 23 individuals. floribunda is threatened by feral pigs plants are present in the vicinity, but Further study of the occurrence that degrade and destroy habitat, and have not yet been described as a indicates that the plants may actually nonnative plants that compete for light significant problem. Currently, we know represent clones of only six genetically and nutrients. The National Park of no plans to expand or significantly distinct individuals. There is some Service, The Nature Conservancy, and modify the existing agriculture activities question as to the taxonomy of these the State have outplanted more than 170 in areas adjacent to the population. In populations, as putative hybrids have individuals at Olaa Forest Reserve, Kona addition, deliberate modification of the been found in the same areas. Hema, and Waiakea Forest Reserve species’ immediate habitat is unlikely Peperomia subpetiolata is threatened by (greater than 50, 20 individuals, and 100 due to its location and 85 percent feral pigs that may eat this plant and individuals, respectively). Fences Federal ownership. However, because degrade and destroy habitat, and by protect approximately seven the threats could negatively affect the nonnative plants that compete for light populations on private, State, and only known population of this species, and nutrients. Individuals that occur National Park lands. Nonnative plants the threats are high in magnitude. within the Waikamoi Preserve may have been reduced in these fenced Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 to benefit from fencing and management areas. However, no conservation efforts this species. We are currently reviewing actions; however, all of the threats occur have been implemented for the information from recent site visits and range-wide. Te threats are of a high unfenced populations. Overall, the the effects of a fire during the summer

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of 2007 to determine whether to change our assessment for this species, as we implemented by the Bureau of Land the LPN next year. are currently developing a proposed Management, the magnitude of threat to Platanthera integrilabia (Correll) Leur listing rule. the species is moderate since the (White fringeless orchid) – The Platydesma cornuta var. decurrens measures have reduced the effect of the following summary is based on (no common name) – We have not threats on the species. All remaining information contained in our files. No updated our assessment for this species, threats are nonimminent and involve new information was provided in the as we are currently developing a long-term changes to the habitat for the petition we received on May 11, 2004. proposed listing rule. species resulting from past impacts. Platanthera integrilabia is a perennial Platydesma remyi (no common name) Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 11 to herb that grows in partially, but not – The following summary is based on this species. fully, shaded, wet, boggy areas at the information contained in our files. No Pseudognaphalium (Gnaphalium) head of streams and on seepage slopes new information was provided in the sandwicensium var. molokaiense in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and petition we received on May 11, 2004. (Enaena) – The following summary is Tennessee. Historically, there were at Platydesma remyi is a shrub or shrubby based on information contained in our least 90 populations of P. integrilabia. tree found in wet forests on old volcanic files. No new information was provided Currently there are only 53 extant sites slopes on the island of Hawaii, Hawaii. in the petition we received on May 11, supporting the species. This species is known from two 2004. Pseudognaphalium Several populations have been populations totaling fewer than 50 sandwicensium var. molokaiense is a extirpated due to road, residential, and individuals. Platydesma remyi is perennial herb found in strand commercial construction, and to threatened by feral pigs and cattle that vegetation in dry consolidated dunes on projects that altered soil and site degrade and destroy habitat, nonnative Molokai and Maui, Hawaii. This variety hydrology such that suitability for the plants that compete for light and is known from a total of five species was reduced. Several of the nutrients, reduced reproductive vigor, populations totaling approximately known populations are in or adjacent to and stochastic extinction due to 2,000 individuals in the Moomomi area powerline rights-of-way. Mechanical naturally occurring events. Only one on the island of Molokai, and from two clearing of these areas may benefit the individual is included in a rare plant populations of a few individuals at species by maintaining adequate light exclosure in the Laupahoehoe Natural Waiehu dunes and at Puu Kahulianapa levels; however, the use of herbicides in Area Reserve. The threats are ongoing on west Maui. Pseudognaphalium these areas could pose a significant and therefore imminent, and of a high sandwicensium var. molokaiense is threat to the species. All-terrain vehicles magnitude because of their severity; the threatened by axis deer and cattle that have damaged several sites and pose a threats cause direct mortality or degrade and destroy habitat and threat at most sites. Most of the known significantly reduce the reproductive possibly prey upon it, and by nonnative sites for the species occur in areas that capacity of the species throughout its plants that compete for light and are managed specifically for timber limited range. Therefore, we retained an nutrients. Potential threats also include production. Timber management is not LPN of 2 for this species. collection for lei and off-road vehicles necessarily incompatible with the Pleomele forbesii (Hala pepe) – We that directly damage plants and degrade protection and management of the have not updated our assessment for habitat. While ungulate exclusion fences species, but care must be taken during this species, as we are currently protect one population on Molokai and timber management to ensure that the developing a proposed listing rule. nonnative plant control has been hydrology of the bogs that support the Potentilla basaltica (Soldier Meadow implemented in this population, no species is not altered. Natural cinquefoil or basalt cinquefoil) – The conservation efforts have been initiated succession can result in decreased light following summary is based on to date for the other populations on levels. Because of the species information contained in our files; the Molokai or for the individuals on Maui. dependence upon moderate to high light petition we received on May 11, 2004, The ongoing threats from axis deer, levels, some type of active management provided no additional information on cattle, nonnative plants, collection, and to prevent complete canopy closure is the species. Soldier Meadow cinquefoil off-road vehicles are of a high required at most locations. Collecting is a low growing, rhizomatous, magnitude because no control measures for commercial and other purposes is a herbaceous perennial that is associated have been undertaken for the Maui potential threat. Herbivory (primarily with alkali meadows, seeps, and population and the threats are deer) threatens the species at several occasionally marsh habitats bordering significant to this plant. Therefore, we sites. Due to the alteration of habitat and perennial thermal springs, outflows, and retained an LPN of 3 for this plant changes in natural conditions, meadow depressions. In Nevada, the variety. protection and recovery of this species species is known only from Soldier Psychotria hexandra ssp. oahuensis is dependent upon active management Meadow in Humboldt County. At var. oahuensis (Kopiko) – We have not rather than just preservation of habitat. Soldier Meadow, there are 10 discrete updated our assessment for this species, Invasive, nonnative plants such as known occurrences within an area of as we are currently developing a Japanese honeysuckle and kudzu about 70 acres that support about proposed listing rule. threaten several sites. Overall, the 130,000 individuals. In northeastern Pteralyxia macrocarpa (Kaulu) – We magnitude of threats to this species is California, a single population occurs in have not updated our assessment for high because they result in direct Lassen County. The California this species, as we are currently mortality or significantly decrease the population occupies less than one acre developing a proposed listing rule. reproductive capacity of this species. on private lands and supports fewer Ranunculus hawaiensis (Makou) – Because we anticipate that most of these than 1,000 plants. The species and its The following summary is based on threats will not be realized in the near habitat are threatened by recreational information contained in our files. No future, the threats are nonimminent. use in the areas where it occurs, and new information was provided in the Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 to ongoing impacts of past water petition we received on May 11, 2004. this species. diversions livestock grazing, and off- Ranunculus hawaiensis is an erect or Platydesma cornuta var. cornuta (no highway vehicle travel. Because of ascending perennial herb found in common name) – We have not updated several conservation measures mesic to wet forest dominated by

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Metrosideros polymorpha and Acacia a high magnitude on Kauai. Therefore, conservation strategy, completed in koa with scree substrate on Maui and since half of the individuals are found 2003, contains goals and objectives for the island of Hawaii, Hawaii. on Kauai threats to the species overall recovery and survival, a research and Populations formerly within Haleakala are also of a high magnitude because monitoring agenda, and will serve as the National Park have been extirpated. these threats present a significant risk to foundation for an adaptive management This species is currently known from the continued existence of R. mauiensis. program. Because of the continued fewer than 12 individuals in 4 In addition, the threats are imminent commitments to conservation populations: three wild populations because they are ongoing in the Kauai demonstrated by regulatory and land occur on Hawaii totaling 8 individuals; and the majority of the Maui management agencies participating in 1 wild population at Waikamoi (on populations. Therefore, we retained an the conservation strategy, we have Maui) was last observed in 1995, and LPN of 2 for this species. determined the threats to Tahoe yellow the second Maui population (Kukui Rorippa subumbellata (Tahoe yellow cress from various land uses are planeze) was not relocated on a survey cress) – The following summary is based moderate in magnitude. In high lake conducted in 2006. Ranunculus on information contained in our files level years such as 2005, however, hawaiensis is threatened by direct and the petition we received on recreational use is concentrated within predation by slugs, feral pigs, goats, December 27, 2000. Tahoe yellow cress Tahoe yellow cress habitat, and this cattle, mouflon, and sheep; by pigs, is a small perennial herb known only threat in particular is ongoing and goats, cattle, mouflon and sheep that from the shores of Lake Tahoe in imminent. Therefore, we are degrade and destroy habitat; and by California and Nevada. Data collected maintaining an LPN of 8 for this species. nonnative plants that compete for light over the last 25 years generally indicate Schiedea pubescens (Maolioli) – The and nutrients. Three populations have that species occurrence fluctuates yearly following summary is based on been outplanted into protected as a function of both lake level and the information contained in our files. No exclosures; however, feral ungulates and amount of exposed habitat. Records kept new information was provided in the nonnative plants are not controlled in since 1900 show a preponderance of petition we received on May 11, 2004. the remaining, unfenced populations. In years with high lake levels that isolate Schiedea pubescens is a reclining or addition, the threat from slugs is of a and reduce Tahoe yellow cress weakly climbing vine found in diverse high magnitude because slugs occur occurrences at higher beach elevations. mesic to wet forest on Maui, Molokai, throughout the limited range of this From the standpoint of the species, less and Hawaii. Currently, this species is species and no effective measures have favorable peak years have occurred known from six populations totaling been undertaken to control them or almost twice as often as more favorable between 29 and 71 individuals on Maui, prevent them from causing significant low-level years. Annual surveys are from four populations totaling 25 adverse impacts to this species. conducted to determine population individuals on Molokai, and from one Therefore, the threats from pigs, goats, numbers, site occupancy, and general population of 4 to 6 individuals on the cattle, mouflon, sheep, slugs, and disturbance regime. During the 2003 island of Hawaii. Schiedea pubescens is nonnative plants are of a high and 2004 annual survey period, the lake threatened by feral goats that consume magnitude, and ongoing (imminent) for level was approximately 6,224 ft (1,898 it and degrade and destroy habitat, and R. hawaiensis. We retained an LPN of 2 m); 2004 was the fourth consecutive by nonnative plants that compete for for this species. year of low water. Tahoe yellow cress light and nutrients. Feral ungulates have was present at 45 of the 72 sites been fenced out of the population of S. Ranunculus mauiensis (Makou) – The surveyed (65 percent occupied), up from pubescens on Hawaii. Feral goats have following summary is based on 15 sites (19 percent occupied) in 2000 been fenced out of a few of the west information contained in our files. No when the lake level was high at 6,228 Maui populations of S. pubescens. new information was provided in the ft. Approximately 25,200 stems were Nonnative plants have been reduced in petition we received on May 11, 2004. counted or estimated in 2003, whereas the populations that are fenced on Maui. Ranunculus mauiensis is an erect to during the 2000 annual survey, the However, the threats are not controlled weakly ascending perennial herb found estimated number of stems was 4,590. and are ongoing in the remaining in open sites in mesic to wet forest and Lake levels began to rise again in 2005 unfenced populations on Maui and the along streams on the islands of Maui, and less habitat was available; three populations on Molokai. In light of Kauai, and Molokai, Hawaii. This intermediate lake levels were expected the extremely low number of species is currently known from 1 in 2008. individuals of this species, the threats individual on Molokai, 60 individuals Many Tahoe yellow cress sites are from goats and nonnative plants are of on Maui, and approximately 46 intensively used for commercial and a high magnitude because they pose a individuals on Kauai. Ranunculus public purposes and are subject to significant threat to the species, and mauiensis is threatened by feral pigs, various activities such as erosion imminent because they are ongoing with goats, deer, and slugs that consume it; control, marina developments, pier respect to most of the populations. by habitat degradation and destruction construction, and recreation. The U.S. Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for by feral pigs, goats and deer; and by Forest Service, California Tahoe this species. nonnative plants that compete for light Conservancy, and California Department Schiedea salicaria (no common name) and nutrients. Feral pigs have been of Parks and Recreation have – The following summary is based on fenced out of the Maui populations of R. management programs for Tahoe yellow information contained in our files. No mauiensis, and nonnative plants have cress that include monitoring, fenced new information was provided in the been reduced in the fenced areas. One enclosures, and transplanting efforts petition we received on May 11, 2004. individual occurs in the Kamakou when funds and staff are available. Schiedea salicaria is an erect subshrub Preserve on Molokai, managed by The Public agencies (including the Service), or shrub found on ridges and steep Nature Conservancy. However, ongoing private landowners, and environmental slopes in dry shrubland on Maui, conservation efforts benefit only the groups collaborated to develop a Hawaii. Currently, this species is Maui and Molokai individuals, and conservation strategy coupled with a declining throughout its range, and is absent conservation efforts for the Kauai Memorandum of Understanding/ known from four populations totaling individuals, the threats continue to be of Conservation Agreement. The approximately 260 individuals. This

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species is threatened by cattle that may Kea areas and in Hawaii Volcanoes moderate magnitude because of the directly prey upon it and degrade and National Park (Puna area) on the island relatively large number of plants, and destroy habitat, fire, and nonnative of Hawaii. It appears that a naturally are imminent for the majority of the plants that compete for light and occurring population at Kipuka Ki in populations because they are ongoing nutrients. This species is represented in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is and are not being controlled. We an ex-situ collection. All of the threats reproducing by seeds, but seeds have therefore retained an LPN of 8 for this occur range-wide, and no efforts for not been successfully germinated under species. their control or eradication are being nursery conditions. This species is Stenogyne cranwelliae (no common undertaken. We retained an LPN of 2. threatened by feral pigs and sheep that name) – The following summary is The threats are imminent because they degrade and destroy habitat, and based on information contained in our are ongoing, and they are of a high nonnative plants that compete for light files. No new information was provided magnitude because, in light of their and nutrients. Feral pigs have been in the petition we received on May 11, severity and the small size of the fenced out of some of the areas where 2004. Stenogyne cranwelliae is a population, they have the potential to S. macrophyllus currently occurs, but creeping vine found in wet forest adversely affect the species. the fences do not exclude sheep. dominated by Metrosideros polymorpha Sedum eastwoodiae (Red Mountain Nonnative plants have been reduced in on the island of Hawaii, Hawaii. stonecrop) – The following summary is the populations that are fenced. Stenogyne cranwelliae is known from 11 based on information contained in our However, the threats are not controlled populations totaling fewer than 100 files and information provided by the and are ongoing in the remaining, individuals. This species is threatened California Department of Fish and unfenced populations, and are, by feral pigs that degrade and destroy Game. The petition we received on May therefore, imminent. Similarly the threat habitat, and nonnative plants that 11, 2004 provided no new information from sheep is ongoing and imminent in compete for light and nutrients. In on the species. Red Mountain stonecrop all populations, because the current addition, this species is potentially is a perennial succulent which occupies fences do not exclude sheep. In threatened by rats that may directly prey relatively barren, rocky openings and addition, all of the threats are of a high upon it, and by randomly occurring cliffs in lower montane coniferous magnitude because habitat degradation natural events such as hurricanes and forests, between 1,900 and 4,000 feet and competition from nonnative plants landslides. All of the threats occur elevation. Its distribution is limited to present a risk to the species, resulting in range-wide, and no efforts for control or Red Mountain, Mendocino County, direct mortality or significantly eradication are being undertaken for the California, where it occupies 30 acres reducing the reproductive capacity. pigs, nonnative plants, or rats. These scattered over 4 square miles. Total Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for threats are sufficient to adversely affect population size is estimated at between this species. the species particularly in light of its 5,300 and 23,000 plants, contained small population size. We retained an within 27 habitat polygons. Intensive Solanum nelsonii (popolo) – The LPN of 2 because the threats are of a monitoring suggests considerable following summary is based on high magnitude and are ongoing, so are annual variation in plant seedling information contained in our files. No imminent. success and inflorescence production; new information was provided in the Symphyotrichum georgianum stonecrop density has varied from year- petition we received on May 11, 2004. (Georgia aster) – The following to-year. The primary threat to the Solanum nelsonii is a sprawling or summary is based on information species is the potential for surface trailing shrub found in coral rubble or contained in our files. No new mining for chromium and nickel. The sand in coastal sites. This species is information was provided in the entire distribution of Red Mountain known from populations in Molokai petition we received on May 11, 2004. stonecrop is either owned by mining (approximately 300 plants) and the Georgia aster is a relict species of post interests, or is covered by mining northwestern Hawaiian Islands: Midway oak savanna/prairie communities that claims; none of the claims are currently (approximately 260 plants), Laysan existed across much of the southeast active and therefore the primary threat (approximately 490 plants), Pearl and prior to widespread fire suppression from mining is nonimminent. Surface Hermes (unknown number of and extirpation of large native grazing mining would destroy habitat suitability individuals), Nihoa (8,000 to 15,000 animals. Most remaining populations for this species. The species is also adult plants); and from five individuals survive adjacent to roads, utility rights- believed threatened by tree and shrub last observed on the Island of Hawaii in of-way, and other openings where encroachment into its habitat, in 1995. On Molokai, S. nelsonii is current land management mimics absence of fire. Given the high moderately threatened by ungulates natural disturbance regimes. Georgia magnitude and nonimminent threats to which degrade and destroy habitat, and aster currently occurs in the states of the small, scattered populations of this that may eat it, and on Molokai and the Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and plant species, we assigned an LPN of 5 northwestern Hawaiian Islands by South Carolina. The species is to Red Mountain stonecrop. nonnative plants that outcompete and presumed extant in three counties in Sicyos macrophyllus (Anunu) – The displace it. Ungulate exclusion fences, Alabama, ten counties in Georgia, nine following summary is based on routine fence monitoring and counties in North Carolina, and eleven information contained in our files. No maintenance, and weed control protect counties in South Carolina. The species new information was provided in the the population of S. nelsonii on appears to have been eliminated from petition we received on May 11, 2004. Molokai. Limited weed control is Florida. Most populations are small (10- Sicyos macrophyllus is a perennial vine conducted in the northwestern 100 stems), and, since the species’ main found in wet Metrosideros polymorpha Hawaiian Islands. In addition, S. mode of reproduction is vegetative, each (ohia) forest and subalpine Sophora nelsonii is likely threatened by being isolated population may represent only chrysophylla-Myoporum sandwicense eaten by a nonnative grasshopper, a few genotypes. (mamane-naio) forest on the island of Schistocerca nitens, in the northwestern Many populations are threatened by Hawaii, Hawaii. This species is known Hawaiian Islands. Currently no control one or more of the following factors: from 11 populations totaling fewer than measures are in place for this woody succession due to fire 50 individuals in the Kohala and Mauna grasshopper. These threats are of suppression, development, highway

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expansion/improvement, and herbicide Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa (Meda fulgida), and the loach minnow application. These threats are currently (ohia-koa) forests on the islands of Maui (Tiaroga cobitis). Because these species occurring (and are therefore imminent). and Hawaii, Hawaii. Only four are already listed under the Act, they These threats are expected to continue populations are known, totaling 19 to 29 are not candidates for listing and are not to operate throughout the range of the individuals on Hawaii and Maui. included in Table 1. However, this species; however, data on the frequency, Huperzia stemmermanniae is notice and associated species timing, and consequences of these threatened by feral pigs, goats, cattle, assessment forms also constitute the threats are lacking. Based upon data on and deer that degrade and/or destroy resubmitted petition findings for these other rare plant species, some of which habitat, and by nonnative plants that species. For the three grizzly bear are federally listed, occurring in similar compete for light, space, and nutrients. populations, we have not updated our habitats and possessing similar life It is also threatened by randomly assessments through this notice as histories, it is not currently expected occurring natural events due to its small explained below. Pending the that these threats are likely to be population size. One individual at completion of an ongoing review of the irreversible (e.g., to result in the Waikamoi Preserve may benefit from status of the grizzly bear in the lower 48 extirpation of populations). Therefore, fencing for deer and pigs. The threats States outside of the Greater the ongoing threats are of moderate to from pigs, goats, cattle, deer, and Yellowstone Areas (see below), we low magnitude, and we assigned an LPN nonnative plants are of a high continue to find that reclassification to of 8 to this species. magnitude because they are sufficiently endangered for each of the three Zanthoxylum oahuense (Ae) – We severe to adversely affect the species populations (described below) is have not updated our assessment for throughout its limited range, resulting warranted but precluded by work this species, as we are currently in direct mortality or significantly indentified above (see ‘‘Petition developing a proposed listing rule. reducing reproductive capacity. The Findings for Candidate Species ’’). For Ferns and Allies threats are imminent because they are the spikedace and loach minnow, our ongoing. Therefore, we retained an LPN updated assessments are provided Christella boydiae (no common name) of 2 for this species. below. We find that reclassification to – The following summary is based on Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis endangered status for both the information contained in our files. No (Palapalai) – The following summary is spikedace and loach minnow is new information was provided in the based on information contained in our currently warranted but precluded by petition we received on May 11, 2004. files. No new information was provided work identified above (see ‘‘Petition This species is a small- to medium-sized in the petition we received on May 11, Findings for Candidate Species ’’). One fern found in mesic to wet forest along 2004. Palapalai is a fern found in mesic of the primary reasons that the work streambanks on Oahu and Maui, to wet forests. It is currently found on Hawaii. Historically, this species was identified above is higher priority is that the islands of Maui, Hawaii, and Oahu, the grizzly bear populations, spikedace, also found on the island of Hawaii, but from at least 10 populations totaling at it has been extirpated there. Currently, and loach minnow are currently listed least 46 individuals. There is a as threatened, and therefore already this species is known from five possibility that the range of this plant populations totaling 316 individuals. receive certain protections under the variety could be larger and include the Act. The Service promulgated This species is threatened by feral pigs other main Hawaiian Islands. which degrade and/or destroy habitat regulations extending take prohibitions Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis is for endangered species under section 9 and that may eat this plant, nonnative threatened by feral pigs that degrade to threatened species (50 CFR 17.31). plants that compete for light and and destroy habitat, and nonnative Prohibited actions under section 9 nutrients, and stream diversion. Feral plants that compete for light and include, but are not limited to, take (i.e., pigs have been fenced out of the largest nutrients. Pigs have been fenced out of to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, population on Maui, and nonnative areas on east and west Maui, and on wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or plants have been reduced in the fenced Hawaii, where M. strigosa var. attempt to engage in such activity). area. No conservation efforts are under mauiensis currently occurs, and Other protections include those under way to alleviate threats to the other two nonnative plants have been reduced in section 7(a)(2) of the Act whereby populations on Maui, or for the two the fenced areas. However, the threats Federal agencies must insure that any populations on Oahu. The magnitude of are not controlled and are ongoing in the threats acting upon the currently the remaining unfenced populations on action they authorize, fund, or carry out extant populations is moderate because Maui, Hawaii, and Oahu. Therefore, the is not likely to jeopardize the continued the largest population is protected from threats from feral pigs and nonnative existence of any endangered or pigs, and nonnative plants have been plants are imminent. The threats are of threatened species. reduced in this area. The threats are a high magnitude because they are Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) ongoing and therefore imminent. sufficiently severe to adversely affect North Cascades ecosystem, Cabinet- Therefore, we retained an LPN of 8 for the species throughout its range, Yaak, and Selkirk populations (Region this species. resulting in direct mortality or 6) – We have not updated our finding Doryopteris takeuchii (no common significantly reducing reproductive with regard to these grizzly bear name) – We have not updated our capacity. We therefore retained an LPN populations in this notice. Between assessment for this species, as we are of 3 for M. strigosa var. mauiensis. 1991 and 1999, we issued warranted but currently developing a proposed listing precluded findings to reclassify grizzly rule for this species. Petitions To Reclassify Species Already bears as endangered in the North Huperzia stemmermanniae Listed Cascades (56 FR 33892-33894, July 24, (Waewaeiole) – The following summary We previously made warranted-but- 1991; 63 FR 30453-30454, June 4, 1998), is based on information contained in precluded findings on five petitions the Cabinet-Yaak (58 FR 8250-8251, our files. No new information was seeking to reclassify threatened species February 12, 1993; 64 FR 26725-26733, provided in the petition we received on to endangered status. The taxa involved May 17, 1999), and the Selkirk May 11, 2004. This species is a pendant are three populations of the grizzly bear Ecosystems (64 FR 26725-26733, May clubmoss found in mesic to wet (Ursus arctos horribilis), the spikedace 17, 1999). We also made resubmitted

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petition findings that uplisting these that review to update our findings for (see ADDRESSES) for additional three populations to endangered was the petitions to reclassify the three information on why reclassification to warranted but precluded through grizzly bear populations. endangered is warranted-but-precluded) previous CNORs (most recently on Spikedace (Meda fulgida) (Region 2) – This small fish, the only species September 12, 2006; 71 FR 53755). (see 59 FR 35303, July 11, 1994, and the within the genus, is found in small-to- However, none of the findings included species assessment form (see large perennial streams and uses a formal analysis under our 1996 Policy ADDRESSES) for additional information shallow, turbulent riffles with primarily Regarding the Recognition of Distinct on why reclassification to endangered is cobble substrate and swift currents. This Vertebrate Population Segments (DPS) warranted-but-precluded) – The species is now common only in under the Endangered Species Act (61 spikedace, a small fish species in a Aravaipa Creek and the Blue River in monotypic genus, is found in moderate- FR 4722-4725, February 7, 1996). Under Arizona, and limited portions of the San to-large perennial waters, where it this policy a formal analysis of Francisco, upper Gila, and Tularosa discreteness and significance is inhabits shallow riffles with sand, rivers in New Mexico. Smaller, less necessary to determine if the entity is a gravel, and rubble substrates, and stable populations occur in some areas ‘‘listable entity.’’ While our 1999 revised moderate-to-swift currents and swift 12–month finding performed a pools over sand or gravel substrates. of the upper Gila, such as the Middle preliminary DPS analysis, it appears to This species is now relatively common Fork and in small areas of several have incorrectly analyzed significance only in Aravaipa Creek and portions of tributary streams to Aravaipa Creek and to the listed entity (i.e. grizzly bears in the upper Gila River in New Mexico. the Blue and Tularosa rivers, such as the lower 48 States) instead of Smaller, less stable populations occur in Pace, Frieborn, Negrito, Turkey, and significance to the taxon (Ursus arctos some areas of the upper Gila, as well as Deer creeks. Small populations are also horribilis) as required by our DPS policy in the Verde River. present in Eagle Creek and the Black (64 FR 26725-26733, May 17, 1999; 61 The threats to this species are River. FR 4722-4725, February 7, 1996; primarily from nonnative aquatic The threats to this species are National Association of Home Builders species and water withdrawals, primarily from nonnative aquatic v. Norton, 340 F. 3d 835, 852 (9th Cir. including groundwater pumping. Other species and water withdrawals, 2003)). Additionally, emerging threats include grazing, road including groundwater pumping. Other construction, and recreation. Spikedace biological information now suggests threats include grazing, road occur in only 5 to 10 percent of their increasing levels of connectivity among construction, and recreation. Loach historical range, and threats occur over some of these populations, casting minnow occur in only 10 to 15 percent doubt on their discreteness. the majority of their range to varying of their historic range, and threats occur Also relevant is the March 16, 2007, degrees. Threats are exacerbated by Department of the Interior Office of the ongoing drought. In addition, different over the majority of their range, to Solicitor memorandum (available at: threats can interact with each other to varying degrees. Threats are exacerbated http://www.doi.gov/solicitor/opinions/ cause further decline. For example, by ongoing drought. In addition, M37013.pdf) regarding the meaning of drought and water withdrawals may different threats can interact with each ‘‘significant portion of [a species’] decrease the amount of habitat available other to cause further decline. For range.’’ This memorandum states that to all species within a given stream, example, drought and water ‘‘whenever the Secretary concludes forcing natives and nonnatives into withdrawals may decrease the amount because of the statutory five-factor closer proximity to one another. Effects of habitat available to all species within analysis that a species is ‘in danger of from nonnative species introductions a given stream, bringing natives and extinction throughout...a significant are permanent, unless streams are nonnatives into closer contact. Effects portion of its range,’ it is to be listed and actively renovated and/or barriers from nonnative species introductions the protections of the ESA applied to installed to preclude further are permanent, unless streams are the species in that portion of its range.’’ recolonization by nonnatives. Grazing actively renovated and/or barriers The memorandum goes on to say, ‘‘the pressures have eased somewhat as installed to preclude further Secretary has broad discretion in Federal agencies remove cattle from recolonization by nonnatives. Grazing defining what portion of a range is streams directly, but upland conditions pressures have eased somewhat as ‘significant.’’’ To date, the Service has continue to degrade watersheds in Federal agencies remove cattle from not determined whether the North general. Groundwater withdrawals or streams directly, but upland conditions Cascade, the Cabinet-Yaak, or the exchanges that affect streamflow are not continue to degrade watersheds in Selkirk Ecosystems each constitutes a reversible. For these reasons, the general. Groundwater withdrawals or significant portion of the grizzly bear’s magnitude of the threat to this species exchanges that affect streamflow are not is high. In addition, most of the threats range or whether they only represent reversible. For these reasons, the significant portions of the species’ range to this species are ongoing, in particular magnitude of the threats to this species when combined with other units. grazing, water withdrawals, nonnative On April 18, 2007, the Service stocking programs, recreational use, and is high. In addition, most of the threats initiated a 5–year review to evaluate the drought. Because threats have gone on to this species are ongoing, in particular current status of grizzly bears in the for many years in the past, are grazing, water withdrawals, nonnative lower 48-States outside of the Greater associated with irreversible stocking programs, recreational use, and Yellowstone Area (72 FR 19549-19551). commitments (i.e., water exchanges), or drought. Because threats have gone on This status review will fully evaluate are not easily reversed (i.e., nonnative for many years in the past, are the status of each population and the stocking and impacts from grazing), the associated with irreversible appropriate application of the DPS threats to the species are imminent. commitments (i.e., water exchanges), or policy and the Solicitor memorandum Therefore, we assigned this species an are not easily reversed (i.e., nonnative regarding recognition and listing of LPN of 1 for uplisting to endangered. stocking and impactsfrom grazing), the significant portions of range. We expect Loach minnow (Tiaroga cobitis) threats to this species are imminent. this 5–year review to be completed in (Region 2) (see 59 FR 35303, July 11, Therefore, we assigned this species an FY 2009. We will use information from 1994, and the species assessment form LPN of 1 for uplisting to endangered.

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Current Notice of Review PT - Species proposed for listing as (not all of these codes may have been We gather data on plants and animals threatened. used in this CNOR): PSAT – Species proposed for listing native to the U.S. that appear to merit E - Species we listed as endangered. as threatened due to similarity of consideration for addition to the Lists of T - Species we listed as threatened. appearance. Rc - Species we removed from the Endangered and Threatened Wildlife C - Candidates: Species for which we candidate list because currently and Plants. This notice identifies those have on file sufficient information on available information does not support species that we currently regard as biological vulnerability and threats to a proposed listing. candidates for addition to the Lists. support proposals to list them as Rp - Species we removed from the These candidates include species and endangered or threatened. Issuance of candidate list because we have subspecies of fish, wildlife, or plants proposed rules for these species is withdrawn the proposed listing. and DPSs of vertebrate animals. This precluded at present by other higher- The second column indicates why we compilation relies on information from priority listing actions. This category no longer regard the species as a status surveys conducted for candidate includes species for which we made a candidate or proposed species using the assessment and on information from 12–month warranted-but-precluded following codes (not all of these codes State Natural Heritage Programs, other finding on a petition to list. We made may have been used in this CNOR): State and Federal agencies, new findings on all petitions for which A - Species that are more abundant or knowledgeable scientists, public and we previously made ‘‘warranted-but- widespread than previously believed private natural resource interests, and precluded’’ findings. We identify the and species that are not subject to the comments received in response to species for which we made a continued degree of threats sufficient to warrant previous notices of review. warranted-but-precluded finding on a continuing candidate status, or issuing a Tables 1 and 2 list animals arranged resubmitted petition by the code ‘‘C*’’ proposed or final listing. alphabetically by common names under in the category column (see ‘‘Findings F - Species whose range no longer the major group headings, and list on Resubmitted Petitions’’ section for includes a U.S. territory. plants alphabetically by names of additional information). I - Species for which we have genera, species, and relevant subspecies The ‘‘Priority’’ column indicates the insufficient information on biological and varieties. Animals are grouped by LPN for each candidate species which vulnerability and threats to support class or order. Plants are subdivided we use to determine the most issuance of a proposed rule to list. into two groups: (1) flowering plants appropriate use of our available L - Species we added to the Lists of and (2) ferns and their allies. Useful resources. The lowest numbers have the Endangered and Threatened Wildlife synonyms and subgeneric scientific highest priority. We assign LPNs based and Plants. names appear in parentheses with the on the immediacy and magnitude of M - Species we mistakenly included synonyms preceded by an ‘‘equals’’ threats as well as on taxonomic status. as candidates or proposed species in the sign. Several species that have not yet We published a complete description of last notice of review. been formally described in the scientific our listing priority system in the N - Species that are not listable literature are included; such species are Federal Register (48 FR 43098, entities based on the Act’s definition of identified by a generic or specific name September 21, 1983). ‘‘species’’ and current taxonomic (in italics), followed by ‘‘sp.’’ or ‘‘ssp.’’ The third column, ‘‘Lead Region,’’ understanding. We incorporate standardized common identifies the Regional Office to which U - Species that are not subject to the names in these notices as they become you should direct information, degree of threats sufficient to warrant available. We sorted plants by scientific comments, or questions (see addresses issuance of a proposed listing or name due to the inconsistencies in at the end of the SUPPLEMENTARY continuance of candidate status due, in common names, the inclusion of INFORMATION section). part or totally, to conservation efforts vernacular and composite subspecific Following the scientific name (fourth that remove or reduce the threats to the names, and the fact that many plants column) and the family designation species. still lack a standardized common name. (fifth column) is the common name X - Species we believe to be extinct. Table 1 lists all candidate species plus (sixth column). The seventh column The columns describing lead region, species currently proposed for listing provides the known historic range for scientific name, family, common name, under the Act. We emphasize that in the species or vertebrate population (for and historical range include information this notice we are not proposing to list vertebrate populations, this is the as previously described for Table 1. any of the candidate species; rather, we historic range for the entire species or will develop and publish proposed subspecies and not just the historic Request for Information listing rules for these species in the range for the distinct population We request you submit any further future. We encourage State agencies, segment), indicated by postal code information on the species named in other Federal agencies, and other parties abbreviations for States and U.S. this notice as soon as possible or to give consideration to these species in territories. Many species no longer whenever it becomes available. We are environmental planning. occur in all of the areas listed. particularly interested in any In Table 1, the ‘‘category’’ column on Species in Table 2 of this notice are information: the left side of the table identifies the those we included either as proposed (1) indicating that we should add a status of each species according to the species or as candidates in the previous species to the list of candidate species; following codes: CNOR (published December 6, 2007) (2) indicating that we should remove PE - Species proposed for listing as that are no longer proposed species or a species from candidate status; endangered. Proposed species are those candidates for listing. Since December (3) recommending areas that we species for which we have published a 6, 2007, we removed one species from should designate as critical habitat for a proposed rule to list as endangered or proposed status and removed three species, or indicating that designation of threatened in the Federal Register. This species from candidate status for the critical habitat would not be prudent for category does not include species for reasons indicated by the codes. The first a species; which we have withdrawn or finalized column indicates the present status of (4) documenting threats to any of the the proposed rule. each species, using the following codes included species;

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(5) describing the immediacy or Federal Drive, Fort Snelling, MN 55111- Region having lead responsibility for magnitude of threats facing candidate 4056 (612/713-5334). each candidate species mentioned in the species; Region 4. Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, submission. We will likewise consider (6) pointing out taxonomic or Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, all information provided in response to nomenclature changes for any of the Mississippi, North Carolina, South this CNOR in deciding whether to species; Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and propose species for listing and when to (7) suggesting appropriate common the U.S. Virgin Islands. Regional undertake necessary listing actions names; and Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife (including whether emergency listing (8) noting any mistakes, such as errors Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Suite pursuant to section 4(b)(7) of the Act is in the indicated historical ranges. 200, Atlanta, GA 30345 (404/679-4156). appropriate). Information and comments Submit information, materials, or Region 5. Connecticut, Delaware, we receive will become part of the comments regarding a particular species District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, administrative record for the species, to the Regional Director of the Region Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New which we maintain at the appropriate identified as having the lead Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Regional Office. responsibility for that species. The Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Before including your address, phone regional addresses follow: Fish and Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate number, e-mail address, or other Region 1. Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, Center Drive, Hadley, MA 01035-9589 personal identifying information in your Washington, American Samoa, Guam, (413/253-8615). submission, be advised that your entire and Commonwealth of the Northern Region 6. Colorado, Kansas, Montana, submission – including your personal Mariana Islands. Regional Director (TE), Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, identifying information – may be made U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastside Utah, and Wyoming. Regional Director publicly available at any time. While Federal Complex, 911 N.E. 11th (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, you can ask us in your submission to Avenue, Portland, OR 97232-4181 (503/ P.O. Box 25486, Denver Federal Center, withhold from public review your 231-6158). Denver, CO 80225-0486 (303/236-7400). personal indentifying information, we Region 2. Arizona, New Mexico, Region 7. Alaska. Regional Director cannot guarantee that we will be able to Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, do so. (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 500 1011 East Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK Authority Gold Avenue SW., Room 4012, 99503-6199 (907/786-3505). Albuquerque, NM 87102 (505/248- Region 8. California and Nevada. This notice is published under the 6920). Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and authority of the Endangered Species Act Region 3. Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Suite W2606, Sacramento, CA 95825 and Wisconsin. Regional Director (TE), (916/414-6464) Dated: November 26, 2008 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bishop We will provide information received Rowan W. Gould Henry Whipple Federal Building, One in response to the previous CNOR to the Deputy Director, Fish and Wildlife Service Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants) Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

MAMMALS

C* 3 R1 Emballonura semicaudata Emballonuridae Bat, Pacific sheath-tailed (Mariana U.S.A. (GU, CNMI) rotensis Islands subspecies)

C* 3 R1 Emballonura semicaudata Emballonuridae Bat, Pacific sheath-tailed (American U.S.A. (AS), Fiji, Inde- semicaudata Samoa DPS) pendent Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu

C* 2 R5 Sylvilagus transitionalis Leporidae Cottontail, New England U.S.A. (CT, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, VT)

C* 6 R8 Martes pennanti Mustelidae Fisher (west coast DPS) U.S.A. (CA, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD,ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY), Canada

C* 3 R2 Zapus hudsonius luteus Zapodidae Mouse, New Mexico meadow U.S.A. (AZ, CO, NM) jumping

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama couchi Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Shelton U.S.A. (WA)

C 3 R1 Thomomys mazama Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Brush Prairie U.S.A. (WA) douglasii

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama glacialis Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Roy Prairie U.S.A. (WA)

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama louiei Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Cathlamet U.S.A. (WA)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Olympic U.S.A. (WA) melanops

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Olympia U.S.A. (WA) pugetensis

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Tacoma U.S.A. (WA) tacomensis

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama tumuli Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Tenino U.S.A. (WA)

C* 3 R1 Thomomys mazama Geomyidae Pocket gopher, Yelm U.S.A. (WA) yelmensis

C* 3 R6 Cynomys gunnisoni Sciuridae Prairie dog, Gunnison’s (central U.S.A. (CO, NM) and south-central Colorado, north-central New Mexico SPR)

C* 3 R8 Spermophilus tereticaudus Sciuridae Squirrel, Palm Springs (= U.S.A. (CA) chlorus Coachella Valley) round-tailed ground

C* 9 R1 Spermophilus brunneus Sciuridae Squirrel, Southern Idaho ground U.S.A. (ID) endemicus

C* 5 R1 Spermophilus washingtoni Sciuridae Squirrel, Washington ground U.S.A. (WA, OR)

BIRDS

PE - R1 Loxops caeruleirostris Fringillidae Akekee (honeycreeper) U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Oreomystis bairdi Fringillidae Akikiki (Kauai creeper) U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R1 Porzana tabuensis Rallidae Crake, spotless (American Samoa U.S.A. (AS), Australia, DPS) Fiji, Independent Samoa, Marquesas, Philippines, Society Islands, Tonga

C* 3 R8 Coccyzus americanus Cuculidae Cuckoo, yellow-billed (Western U.S.A. (Lower 48 U.S. DPS) States), Canada, Mexico, Central and South America

C* 9 R1 Gallicolumba stairi Columbidae Ground-dove, friendly (American U.S.A. (AS), Inde- Samoa DPS) pendent Samoa

C* 3 R1 Eremophila alpestris strigata Alaudidae Horned lark, streaked U.S.A. (OR, WA), Can- ada (BC)

C* 3 R5 Calidris canutus rufa Scolopacidae Knot, red U.S.A. (Atlantic coast), Canada, South America

C* 2 R7 Brachyramphus brevirostris Alcidae Murrelet, Kittlitz’s U.S.A. (AK), Russia.

C* 5 R8 Synthliboramphus Alcidae Murrelet, Xantus’s U.S.A. (CA), Mexico hypoleucus

C* 2 R2 Tympanuchus pallidicinctus Phasianidae Prairie-chicken, lesser U.S.A. (CO, KA, NM, OK, TX)

C* 6 R1 Centrocercus urophasianus Phasianidae Sage-grouse, greater (Columbia U.S.A. (AZ, CA, CO, Basin DPS) ID, MT, ND, NE, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY), Canada (AB, BC, SK)

C* 3 R1 Oceanodroma castro Hydrobatidae Storm-petrel, band-rumped (Hawaii U.S.A. (HI), Atlantic DPS) Ocean, Ecuador (Ga- lapagos Islands), Japan

C* 5 R4 Dendroica angelae Emberizidae Warbler, elfin-woods U.S.A. (PR)

REPTILES

C* 3 R2 Thamnophis eques megalops Colubridae Gartersnake, northern Mexican U.S.A. (AZ, NM, NV), Mexico

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 2 R2 Sceloporus arenicolus Iguanidae Lizard, sand dune U.S.A. (TX, NM)

C* 9 R3 Sistrurus catenatus catenatus Viperidae Massasauga (=rattlesnake), east- U.S.A. (IA, IL, IN, MI, ern MO, MN, NY, OH, PA, WI), Canada

C* 3 R4 Pituophis melanoleucus Colubridae Snake, black pine U.S.A. (AL, LA, MS) lodingi

C* 5 R4 Pituophis ruthveni Colubridae Snake, Louisiana pine U.S.A. (LA, TX)

C* 3 R2 Kinosternon sonoriense Kinosternidae Turtle, Sonoyta mud U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico longifemorale

AMPHIBIANS

C* 9 R8 Rana luteiventris Ranidae Frog, Columbia spotted (Great U.S.A. (AK, ID, MT, Basin DPS) NV, OR, UT, WA, WY), Canada (BC)

C* 3 R8 Rana muscosa Ranidae Frog, mountain yellow-legged (Si- U.S.A (CA, NV) erra Nevada DPS)

C* 2 R1 Rana pretiosa Ranidae Frog, Oregon spotted U.S.A. (CA, OR, WA), Canada (BC)

C* 11 R8 Rana onca Ranidae Frog, relict leopard U.S.A. (AZ, NV, UT)

C* 3 R3 Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Crytobranchidae Hellbender, Ozark U.S.A. (AR, MO) bishopi

C* 2 R2 Eurycea waterlooensis Plethodontidae Salamander, Austin blind U.S.A. (TX)

C* 8 R2 Eurycea naufragia Plethodontidae Salamander, Georgetown U.S.A. (TX)

C* 8 R2 Eurycea tonkawae Plethodontidae Salamander, Jollyville Plateau U.S.A. (TX)

C* 2 R2 Eurycea chisholmensis Plethodontidae Salamander, Salado U.S.A. (TX)

C* 11 R8 Bufo canorus Bufonidae Toad, Yosemite U.S.A. (CA)

C 3 R2 Hyla wrightorum Hylidae Treefrog, Arizona (Huachuca/ U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico Canelo DPS) (Sonora)

C* 8 R4 Necturus alabamensis Proteidae Waterdog, black warrior (=Sipsey U.S.A. (AL) Fork)

FISHES

C* 8 R2 Gila nigra Cyprinidae Chub, headwater U.S.A. (AZ, NM)

C 5 R4 Phoxinus saylori Cyprinidae Dace, laurel U.S.A. (TN)

C* 11 R6 Etheostoma cragini Percidae Darter, Arkansas U.S.A. (AR, CO, KS, MO, OK)

C* 5 R4 Etheostoma susanae Percidae Darter, Cumberland U.S.A. (KY, TN)

C* 5 R4 Percina aurora Percidae Darter, Pearl U.S.A. (LA, MS)

C* 2 R4 Etheostoma phytophilum Percidae Darter, rush U.S.A. (AL)

C* 2 R4 Etheostoma moorei Percidae Darter, yellowcheek U.S.A (AR)

C* 2 R4 Noturus crypticus Ictaluridae Madtom, chucky U.S.A. (TN)

C 5 R4 Moxostoma sp. Catostomidae Redhorse, sicklefin U.S.A. (GA, NC, TN)

C* 2 R3 Cottus sp. Cottidae Sculpin, grotto U.S.A. (MO)

C* 5 R2 Notropis oxyrhynchus Cyprinidae Shiner, sharpnose U.S.A. (TX)

C* 5 R2 Notropis buccula Cyprinidae Shiner, smalleye U.S.A. (TX)

C* 3 R2 Catostomus discobolus Catostomidae Sucker, Zuni bluehead U.S.A. (AZ, NM) yarrowi

PSAT N/A R1 Salvelinus malma Salmonidae Trout, Dolly Varden U.S.A. (AK, WA), Can- ada, East Asia

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 9 R2 Oncorhynchus clarki virginalis Salmonidae Trout, Rio Grande cutthroat U.S.A. (CO, NM)

CLAMS

C 5 R4 Villosa choctawensis Unionidae Bean, Choctaw U.S.A. (AL, FL)

C 2 R3 Villosa fabalis Unionidae Bean, rayed U.S.A. (IL, IN, KY, MI, NY, OH, TN, PA, VA, WV), Canada (ON)

C 2 R4 Fusconaia rotulata Unionidae Ebonyshell, round U.S.A. (AL, FL)

C* 8 R2 Popenaias popei Unionidae Hornshell, Texas U.S.A. (NM, TX), Mex- ico

C* 2 R4 Ptychobranchus subtentum Unionidae Kidneyshell, fluted U.S.A. (AL, KY, TN, VA)

C 2 R4 Ptychobranchus jonesi Unionidae Kidneyshell, southern U.S.A. (AL, FL)

C* 5 R4 Lampsilis rafinesqueana Unionidae Mucket, Neosho U.S.A. (AR, KS, MO, OK)

C 2 R3 Plethobasus cyphyus Unionidae Mussel, sheepnose U.S.A. (AL, IA, IL, IN, KY, MN, MO, MS, OH, PA, TN, VA, WI, WV)

C* 2 R4 Margaritifera marrianae Margaritiferidae Pearlshell, Alabama U.S.A. (AL)

C* 2 R4 Lexingtonia dolabelloides Unionidae Pearlymussel, slabside U.S.A. (AL, KY, TN, VA)

C 5 R4 Pleurobema strodeanum Unionidae Pigtoe, fuzzy U.S.A. (AL, FL)

C* 2 R4 Pleurobema hanleyianum Unionidae Pigtoe, Georgia U.S.A. (AL, GA, TN)

C 5 R4 Fusconaia escambia Unionidae Pigtoe, narrow U.S.A. (AL, FL)

C 11 R4 Fusconaia (=Quincuncina) Unionidae Pigtoe, tapered U.S.A. (AL, FL) burkei

C 5 R4 Hamiota (=Lampsilis) Unionidae Sandshell, southern U.S.A. (AL, FL) australis

C 4 R3 Cumberlandia monodonta Margaritiferidae Spectaclecase U.S.A. (AL, AR, IA, IN, IL, KS, KY, MO, MN, NE, OH, TN, VA, WI, WV)

C* 2 R4 Elliptio spinosa Unionidae Spinymussel, Altamaha U.S.A. (GA)

SNAILS

C 2 R4 Pleurocera foremani Pleuroceridae Hornsnail, rough U.S.A. (AL)

C 8 R4 Elimia melanoides Pleuroceridae Mudalia, black U.S.A. (AL)

C* 11 R6 Stagnicola bonnevillensis Lymnaeidae Pondsnail, fat-whorled U.S.A. (UT) (=Bonneville)

C* 2 R4 Leptoxis foremani (=downei) Pleuroceridae Rocksnail, Interrupted (= Georgia) U.S.A. (GA, AL)

C* 2 R1 Ostodes strigatus Potaridae Sisi snail U.S.A. (AS)

C* 2 R2 Pseudotryonia adamantina Hydrobiidae Snail, Diamond Y Spring U.S.A. (TX)

C* 2 R1 Samoana fragilis Partulidae Snail, fragile tree U.S.A. (GU, MP)

C* 2 R1 Partula radiolata Partulidae Snail, Guam tree U.S.A. (GU)

C* 2 R1 Partula gibba Partulidae Snail, Humped tree U.S.A. (GU, MP)

C* 2 R1 Partulina semicarinata Achatinellidae Snail, Lanai tree U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Partulina variabilis Achatinellidae Snail, Lanai tree U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Partula langfordi Partulidae Snail, Langford’s tree U.S.A. (MP)

C* 2 R2 Cochliopa texana Hydrobiidae Snail, Phantom cave U.S.A. (TX)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 2 R1 Newcombia cumingi Achatinellidae Snail, Newcomb’s tree U.S.A. (Hl)

C* 2 R1 Eua zebrina Partulidae Snail, Tutuila tree U.S.A. (AS)

C* 2 R2 Pyrgulopsis chupaderae Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Chupadera U.S.A. (NM)

C* 11 R8 Pyrgulopsis notidicola Hydrobiidae Springsnail, elongate mud mead- U.S.A. (NV) ows

C* 11 R2 Pyrgulopsis gilae Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Gila U.S.A. (NM)

C* 2 R2 Tryonia Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Gonzales U.S.A. (TX) circumstriat- a(=stocktonensis)

C* 8 R2 Pyrgulopsis thompsoni Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Huachuca U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico

C* 11 R2 Pyrgulopsis thermalis Hydrobiidae Springsnail, New Mexico U.S.A. (NM)

C* 2 R2 Pyrgulopsis morrisoni Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Page U.S.A. (AZ)

C* 2 R2 Tryonia cheatumi Hydrobiidae Springsnail (=Tryonia), Phantom U.S.A. (TX)

C 2 R2 Pyrgulopsis bernardina Hydrobiidae Springsnail, San Bernardino U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico (Sonora)

C* 2 R2 Pyrgulopsis trivialis Hydrobiidae Springsnail, Three Forks U.S.A. (AZ)

INSECTS

C* 8 R1 Nysius wekiuicola Lygaeidae Bug, Wekiu U.S.A. (HI)

C 3 R4 Strymon acis bartrami Lycaenidae Butterfly, Bartram’s hairstreak U.S.A. (FL)

C 3 R4 Anaea troglodyta floridalis Nymphalidae Butterfly, Florida leafwing U.S.A. (FL)

C* 3 R1 Hypolimnas octucula Nymphalidae Butterfly, Mariana eight-spot U.S.A. (GU, MP) mariannensis

C* 2 R1 Vagrans egistina Nymphalidae Butterfly, Mariana wandering U.S.A. (GU, MP)

C* 6 R4 Cyclargus thomasi Lycaenidae Butterfly, Miami blue U.S.A. (FL), Bahamas bethunebakeri

C* 5 R4 Glyphopsyche sequatchie Limnephilidae Caddisfly, Sequatchie U.S.A. (TN)

C 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus insularis Carabidae Cave beetle, Baker Station (= insu- U.S.A. (TN) lar)

C* 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus caecus Carabidae Cave beetle, Clifton U.S.A. (KY)

C 11 R4 Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae Cave beetle, Coleman U.S.A. (TN) colemanensis

C 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus fowlerae Carabidae Cave beetle, Fowler’s U.S.A. (TN)

C* 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus frigidus Carabidae Cave beetle, icebox U.S.A. (KY)

C 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus tiresias Carabidae Cave beetle, Indian Grave Point (= U.S.A. (TN) Soothsayer)

C* 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus inquisi- Carabidae Cave beetle, inquirer U.S.A. (TN) tor

C* 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus troglo- Carabidae Cave beetle, Louisville U.S.A. (KY) dytes

C 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus paulus Carabidae Cave beetle, Noblett’s U.S.A. (TN).

C* 5 R4 Pseudanophthalmus parvus Carabidae Cave beetle, Tatum U.S.A. (KY)

C* 3 R1 Euphydryas editha taylori Nymphalidae Checkerspot butterfly, Taylor’s (= U.S. A. (OR, WA), Whulge) Canada (BC)

C* 9 R1 Megalagrion nigrohamatum Coenagrionidae Damselfly, blackline Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI) nigrolineatum

C* 2 R1 Megalagrion leptodemas Coenagrionidae Damselfly, crimson Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Megalagrion nesiotes Coenagrionidae Damselfly, flying earwig Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 2 R1 Megalagrion oceanicum Coenagrionidae Damselfly, oceanic Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R1 Megalagrion xanthomelas Coenagrionidae Damselfly, orangeblack Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Megalagrion pacificum Coenagrionidae Damselfly, Pacific Hawaiian U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R8 Dinacoma caseyi Scarabidae June beetle, Casey’s U.S.A. (CA)

C 5 R8 Ambrysus funebris Naucoridae Naucorid bug (=Furnace Creek), U.S.A. (CA) Nevares Spring

PE 2 R1 Drosophila attigua Drosophilidae fly, Hawaiian picture-wing U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Drosophila digressa Drosophilidae fly, Hawaiian Picture-wing U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R2 Heterelmis stephani Elmidae Riffle beetle, Stephan’s U.S.A. (AZ)

C* 8 R3 Hesperia dacotae Hesperiidae Skipper, Dakota U.S.A. (MN, IA, SD, ND, IL), Canada

C* 8 R1 Polites mardon Hesperiidae Skipper, Mardon U.S.A. (CA, OR, WA)

C* 2 R6 Cicindela albissima Cicindelidae Tiger beetle, Coral Pink Sand U.S.A. (UT) Dunes

C* 5 R4 Cicindela highlandensis Cicindelidae Tiger beetle, highlands U.S.A. (FL)

ARACHNIDS

C* 2 R2 Cicurina wartoni Dictynidae Meshweaver, Warton cave U.S.A. (TX)

CRUSTACEANS

C 2 R2 Gammarus hyalleloides Gammaridae Amphipod, diminutive U.S.A. (TX)

C* 5 R1 Metabetaeus lohena Alpheidae Shrimp, anchialine pool U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R1 Palaemonella burnsi Palaemonidae Shrimp, anchialine pool U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R1 Procaris hawaiana Procarididae Shrimp, anchialine pool U.S.A. (HI)

C* 4 R1 Vetericaris chaceorum Procaridae Shrimp, anchialine pool U.S.A. (HI)

C* 11 R4 Typhlatya monae Atyidae Shrimp, troglobitic groundwater U.S.A. (PR), Barbuda, Dominican Republic

FLOWERING PLANTS

C* 11 R8 Abronia alpina Nyctaginaceae Sand-verbena, Ramshaw Meadows U.S.A. (CA)

C* 8 R4 Arabis georgiana Brassicaceae Rockcress, Georgia U.S.A. (AL, GA)

C* 11 R4 Argythamnia blodgettii Euphorbiaceae Silverbush, Blodgett’s U.S.A. (FL)

C* 3 R1 Artemisia campestris var. Asteraceae Wormwood, northern U.S.A. (OR, WA) wormskioldii

PE 2 R1 Astelia waialealae Liliaceae Pa‘iniu U.S.A. (HI)

C* 11 R6 Astragalus tortipes Fabaceae Milk-vetch, Sleeping Ute U.S.A. (CO)

C* 2 R1 Bidens amplectens Asteraceae Ko‘oko‘olau U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R1 Bidens campylotheca Asteraceae Ko‘oko‘olau U.S.A. (HI) pentamera

C* 3 R1 Bidens campylotheca Asteraceae Ko‘oko‘olau U.S.A. (HI) waihoiensis

C* 8 R1 Bidens conjuncta Asteraceae Ko‘oko‘olau U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R1 Bidens micrantha ctenophylla Asteraceae Ko‘oko‘olau U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R4 Brickellia mosieri Asteraceae Brickell-bush, Florida U.S.A. (FL)

C* 2 R1 Calamagrostis expansa Poaceae Reedgrass, Maui U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Calamagrostis hillebrandii Poaceae Reedgrass, Hillebrand’s U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R4 Calliandra locoensis Mimosaceae No common name U.S.A. (PR)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 5 R8 Calochortus persistens Liliaceae Mariposa lily, Siskiyou U.S.A. (CA, OR)

C* 5 R4 Calyptranthes estremerae Myrtaceae No common name U.S.A. (PR)

PE 2 R1 Canavalia napaliensis Fabaceae ‘Awikiwiki U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Canavalia pubescens Fabaceae ‘Awikiwiki U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R1 Castilleja christii Scrophulariaceae Paintbrush, Christ’s U.S.A. (ID)

C* 9 R4 Chamaecrista lineata var. Fabaceae Pea, Big Pine partridge U.S.A. (FL) keyensis

C* 12 R4 Chamaesyce deltoidea Euphorbiaceae Sandmat, pineland U.S.A. (FL) pinetorum

C* 9 R4 Chamaesyce deltoidea Euphorbiaceae Spurge, wedge U.S.A. (FL) serpyllum

PE 2 R1 Chamaesyce eleanoriae Euphorbiaceae ‘Akoko U.S.A. (HI)

PE 3 R1 Chamaesyce remyi var. Euphorbiaceae ‘Akoko U.S.A. (HI) kauaiensis

PE 3 R1 Chamaesyce remyi var. Euphorbiaceae ‘Akoko U.S.A. (HI) remyi

PE 2 R1 Charpentiera densiflora Amaranthaceae Papala U.S.A. (HI)

C* 6 R8 Chorizanthe parryi var. Polygonaceae Spineflower, San Fernando Valley U.S.A. (CA) fernandina

C* 2 R4 Chromolaena frustrata Asteraceae Thoroughwort, Cape Sable U.S.A. (FL)

C* 2 R4 Consolea corallicola Cactaceae Cactus, Florida semaphore U.S.A. (FL)

C* 5 R4 Cordia rupicola Boraginaceae No common name U.S.A. (PR), Anegada

C* 2 R1 Cyanea asplenifolia Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyanea calycina Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Cyanea dolichopoda Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Cyanea eleeleensis Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Cyanea kolekoleensis Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Cyanea kuhihewa Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyanea kunthiana Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyanea lanceolata Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyanea obtusa Campanulaceae Haha U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyanea tritomantha Campanulaceae ‘aku ‘aku U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyrtandra filipes Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI).

C* 2 R1 Cyrtandra kaulantha Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Cyrtandra oenobarba Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyrtandra oxybapha Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Cyrtandra paliku Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Cyrtandra sessilis Gesneriaceae Ha‘iwale U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R4 Dalea carthagenensis var. Fabaceae Prairie-clover, Florida U.S.A. (FL) floridana

C* 5 R5 Dichanthelium hirstii Poaceae Panic grass, Hirsts’ U.S.A. (DE, GA, NC, NJ)

C* 5 R4 Digitaria pauciflora Poaceae Crabgrass, Florida pineland U.S.A. (FL)

PE 3 R1 Dubautia imbricata imbricata Asteraceae Na‘ena‘e U.S.A. (HI)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

PE - R1 Dubautia kalalauensis Asteraceae Na‘ena‘e U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Dubautia kenwoodii Asteraceae Na‘ena‘e U.S.A. (HI)

PE 3 R1 Dubautia plantaginea Asteraceae Na‘ena‘e U.S.A. (HI) magnifolia

PE 2 R1 Dubautia waialealae Asteraceae Na‘ena‘e U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R2 Echinomastus erectocentrus Cactaceae Cactus, Acuna U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico var. acunensis

C* 8 R2 Erigeron lemmonii Asteraceae Fleabane, Lemmon U.S.A. (AZ)

C* 2 R1 Eriogonum codium Polygonaceae Buckwheat, Umtanum Desert U.S.A. (WA)

C* 6 R8 Eriogonum corymbosum var. Polygonaceae Buckwheat, Las Vegas U.S.A. (NV) nilesii

C 5 R8 Eriogonum diatomaceum Polygonaceae Buckwheat, Churchill Narrows U.S.A (NV)

C* 5 R8 Eriogonum kelloggii Polygonaceae Buckwheat, Red Mountain U.S.A. (CA)

C* 2 R1 Festuca hawaiiensis Poaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 11 R2 Festuca ligulata Poaceae Fescue, Guadalupe U.S.A. (TX), Mexico

C* 2 R1 Gardenia remyi Rubiaceae Nanu U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R1 Geranium hanaense Geraniaceae Nohoanu U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R1 Geranium hillebrandii Geraniaceae Nohoanu U.S.A. (HI)

PE 5 R1 Geranium kauaiense Geraniaceae Nohoanu U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R4 Gonocalyx concolor Ericaceae No common name U.S.A. (PR)

C 2 R4 Harrisia aboriginum Cactaceae Pricklyapple, aboriginal U.S.A. (FL) (shellmound applecactus)

C* 5 R8 Hazardia orcuttii Asteraceae Orcutt’s hazardia U.S.A. (CA), Mexico

C* 2 R1 Hedyotis fluviatilis Rubiaceae Kampua‘a U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R4 Helianthus verticillatus Asteraceae Sunflower, whorled U.S.A. (AL, GA, TN)

C* 5 R2 Hibiscus dasycalyx Malvaceae Rose-mallow, Neches River U.S.A. (TX)

C 2 R6 Ipomopsis polyantha Polemoniaceae Skyrocket, Pagosa U.S.A. (CO)

C* 5 R8 Ivesia webberi Rosaceae Ivesia, Webber U.S.A. (CA, NV)

C* 3 R1 Joinvillea ascendens Joinvilleaceae ‘Ohe U.S.A. (HI) ascendens

PE 2 R1 Keysseria erici Asteraceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE 8 R1 Keysseria helenae Asteraceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Korthalsella degeneri Viscaceae Hulumoa U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Labordia helleri Loganiaceae Kamakahala U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Labordia pumila Loganiaceae Kamakahala U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R4 Leavenworthia crassa Brassicaceae Gladecress, unnamed U.S.A. (AL)

C* 2 R2 Leavenworthia texana Brassicaceae Gladecress, Texas golden U.S.A. (TX)

C* 5 R4 Lesquerella globosa Brassicaceae Bladderpod, Short’s U.S.A. (IN, KY, TN)

C* 2 R4 Linum arenicola Linaceae Flax, sand U.S.A. (FL)

C* 3 R4 Linum carteri var. carteri Linaceae Flax, Carter’s small-flowered U.S.A. (FL)

PE 8 R1 Lysimachia daphnoides Myrsinaceae Lehua makanoe U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Lysimachia iniki Myrsinaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Lysimachia pendens Myrsinaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

PE - R1 Lysimachia scopulensis Myrsinaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Lysimachia venosa Myrsinaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Melicope christophersenii Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Melicope degeneri Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Melicope hiiakae Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Melicope makahae Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Melicope paniculata Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Melicope puberula Rutaceae Alani U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Myrsine fosbergii Myrsinaceae Kolea U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Myrsine knudsenii Myrsinaceae Kolea U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Myrsine mezii Myrsinaceae Kolea U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Myrsine vaccinioides Myrsinaceae Kolea U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R5 Narthecium americanum Liliaceae Asphodel, bog U.S.A. (DE, NC, NJ, NY, SC)

C* 2 R1 Nothocestrum latifolium Solanaceae ‘Aiea U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Ochrosia haleakalae Apocynaceae Holei U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R2 Pediocactus peeblesianus Cactaceae Cactus, Fickeisen plains U.S.A. (AZ) var. fickeiseniae

C* 2 R6 Penstemon debilis Scrophulariaceae Beardtongue, Parachute U.S.A. (CO)

C* 6 R6 Penstemon scariosus var. Scrophulariaceae Beardtongue, White River U.S.A. (CO, UT) albifluvis

C* 2 R1 Peperomia subpetiolata Piperaceae ‘Ala ‘ala wai nui U.S.A. (HI)

C 5 R8 Phacelia stellaris Hydrophyllaceae Phacelia, Brand’s U.S.A. (CA), Mexico

C* 8 R6 Phacelia submutica Hydrophyllaceae Phacelia, DeBeque U.S.A. (CO)

C* 2 R1 Phyllostegia bracteata Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R1 Phyllostegia floribunda Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Phyllostegia hispida Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Phyllostegia renovans Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R1 Physaria tuplashensis Brassicaceae Bladderpod, White Bluffs U.S.A. (WA)

PE 2 R1 Pittosporum napaliense Pittosporaceae Ho‘awa U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R4 Platanthera integrilabia Orchidaceae Orchid, white fringeless U.S.A. (AL, GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA)

C* 3 R1 Platydesma cornuta var. Rutaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI) cornuta

C* 3 R1 Platydesma cornuta var. Rutaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI) decurrens

C* 2 R1 Platydesma remyi Rutaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Platydesma rostrata Rutaceae Pilo kea lau li‘i U.S.A. (HI)

C 2 R1 Pleomele fernaldii Agavaceae Hala pepe U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Pleomele forbesii Agavaceae Hala pepe U.S.A. (HI)

C* 11 R8 Potentilla basaltica Rosaceae Cinquefoil, Soldier Meadow U.S.A. (NV)

PE 2 R1 Pritchardia hardyi Asteraceae Lo‘ulu U.S.A. (HI)

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Table 1. - Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)—Continued Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead region Scientific name Family Common name Historic range Category Priority

C* 3 R1 Pseudognaphalium Asteraceae ‘Ena‘ena U.S.A. (HI) (=Gnaphalium) sandwicensium var. molokaiense

PE 2 R1 Psychotria grandiflora Rubiaceae Kopiko U.S.A. (HI)

C* 3 R1 Psychotria hexandra ssp. Rubiaceae Kopiko U.S.A. (HI) oahuensis var. oahuensis

PE 2 R1 Psychotria hobdyi Rubiaceae Kopiko U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Pteralyxia macrocarpa Apocynaceae Kaulu U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Ranunculus hawaiensis Ranunculaceae Makou U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Ranunculus mauiensis Ranunculaceae Makou U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R8 Rorippa subumbellata Brassicaceae Cress, Tahoe yellow U.S.A. (CA, NV)

PE 2 R1 Schiedea attenuata Caryophyllaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Schiedea pubescens Caryophyllaceae Ma‘oli‘oli U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Schiedea salicaria Caryophyllaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 5 R8 Sedum eastwoodiae Crassulaceae Stonecrop, Red Mountain U.S.A. (CA)

C* 2 R1 Sicyos macrophyllus Cucurbitaceae ‘Anunu U.S.A. (HI)

C 12 R4 Sideroxylon reclinatum ssp. Sapotaceae Bully, Everglades U.S.A. (FL) austrofloridense

C* 8 R1 Solanum nelsonii Solanaceae Popolo U.S.A. (HI)

C 8 R4 Solidago plumosa Asteraceae Goldenrod, Yadkin River U.S.A. (NC)

C 2 R2 Sphaeralcea gierischii Malvaceae Mallow, Gierisch U.S.A. (AZ, UT)

C* 2 R1 Stenogyne cranwelliae Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE 2 R1 Stenogyne kealiae Lamiaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 8 R4 Symphyotrichum georgianum Asteraceae Aster, Georgia U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA, NC, SC)

PE - R1 Tetraplasandra bisattenuata Araliaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Tetraplasandra flynnii Araliaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Zanthoxylum oahuense Rutaceae A‘e U.S.A. (HI)

FERNS AND ALLIES

C* 8 R1 Christella boydiae Thelypteridaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI) (=Cyclosorus boydiae var. boydiae + Cyclosorus boydiae kipahuluensis)

PE - R1 Diellia mannii Aspleniaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Doryopteris angelica Pteridaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

C* 2 R1 Doryopteris takeuchii Pteridaceae No common name U.S.A. (HI)

PE - R1 Dryopteris crinalis var. Dryopteridaceae Palapalai aumakua U.S.A. (HI) podosorus

C* 2 R1 Huperzia (= Phlegmariurus) Lycopodiaceae Wawae‘iole U.S.A. (HI) stemmermanniae

C* 3 R1 Microlepia strigosa var. Dennstaedtiaceae Palapalai U.S.A. (HI) mauiensis (=Microlepia mauiensis)

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Table 2. Animals and Plants Formerly Candidates or Formerly Proposed for Listing Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.

Status Lead re- Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Code Expl. gion

MAMMALS

T L R7 Ursus maritimus Ursidae Bear, polar U.S.A. (AK), Can- ada, Russia, Den- mark (Green- land), Norway

SNAILS

Rc A R6 Oreohelix peripherica Oreohelicidae Mountainsnail, Ogden U.S.A. (UT) wasatchensis

FLOWERING PLANTS

Rc A R4 Indigofera trita subsp. Fabaceae Indigo, Florida U.S.A. (FL); Belize, scabra (formerly Brazil, Columbia, Indigofera mucronata Costa Rica, var. keyensis) Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ethi- opia, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Laos, Madagascar, Mexico, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Sierra Leone, So- malia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Zaire, and the islands of Hispaniola and New Guinea

[FR Doc. E8–28986 Filed 12–9–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310–55–S

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