Botany Alberta 2005: Blood Reserve by Elaine Gordon Were Formerly Called the “Blood” Carefully Backed Away to Go Plant Tribe Because of Their Traditional Hunting

Iris No. 50 • Season Fall 2005 The Alberta Native Plant Council Newsletter Botany Alberta 2005: Blood Reserve by Elaine Gordon were formerly called the “Blood” carefully backed away to go plant Tribe because of their traditional hunting. he Kainai Reserve is located in southwest Al- ochre face paint, which is still used This site was quite badly over berta, west of Lethbridge and directly north of occasionally, they are now more com- grazed, but we still found some beau- TCardston. It is bordered by the Belly River to the monly referred to by their traditional tiful old favourites. Shining arnica West and North and the St. Mary’s River on the East. name “Kainai” which means “many (Arnica fulgens) was in full bloom as From Highway 2 the land appears flat and rather unin- chiefs”. The highs definitely included were the brown-eyed susans (Gail- teresting. In fact, this country is incredibly beautiful and the hospitality and diverse, with hills and gullies, and always the moun- friendship of the tains in the background, with the distinctive Chief Kainaiwa who, as al- Mountain standing out from all the others. ways, went overboard In 2004 I had the pleasure of working on the Swift to make us feel wel- Fox Reintroduction Project on the reserve. Working come. They had quite a with a team of researchers, we conducted a baseline day planned for us and study of all the birds, insects, mammals, and plants in it became more and potential release sites. Twelve foxes were released in more interesting and September, 2004, of which ten are still alive. More fun as time went on foxes will be released over the next five years until a and we became more substantial population is established. A similar reintro- familiar with each duction was highly successful in Montana and it is other. Kenny Many hoped that the two populations will eventually join via a Fingers, Kansie Fox, wildlife corridor. Jermayne Wells, Jane Botany AB 2005 was an enigma on all counts — with Fox, my husband, Don highs and lows all at the same time. Gordon, and I made up our intrepid little Kainai group. The highs began with the crossing of the Belly River Kainai Entrance Sign photo: E. Gordon and the colourful road sign welcoming everyone to Burrowing Owls Kainai lands with the familiar “Oki” (hello). While they Burrowing owls have now been lardia aristata). In a similar site last verified on the reserve, so our first year I found the most intriguing little stop of the day was to check out the plant, least mousetail (Myosuris min- plants at the burrowing owl site. Here ima), on the edge of a prairie pothole. In this Issue... is where we ran into our first enigma. While not a rare plant, it is not very We were really excited to actually see common and is very restricted in its Puzzling Pairs: Birches ...... 3 the adult burrowing owls — a first for range. We looked for it but it was not Cuttings from ANPC 2005 Workshop . 4 both Don and me. However, their bur- to be this time around. Endangered Species Update ...... 7 row was on the side of a gravel drive- Wildcrafting Tips ...... 8 way; not at all what we had expected, Kenny Many Fingers Coalbed Methane in Rumsey ...... 9 especially after the classic photos Kenny’s family is very plant-ori- Book Review: 100 Easy-to-Grow Native we’ve seen of burrows in the middle ented, and he has extensive knowl- Plants...... 10 of unbroken prairie grassland. A edge of the uses of native plants. He driveway? I’m sure the owls must has also recently graduated from the Plant Happenings ...... 11 have had a good reason for picking Traditional Land Use Program at Red Nisku Prairie Management ...... 12 such a site. Two young babes were in Crow College. This led to some re- Adopt-a-Plant Alberta Logo Contest 12 the burrow, so we took photos and ally interesting discussions. As I

Iris 1 identified (or tried to identify) plants, everywhere — fields were saturated and Kenny would give us some of the roads washed out. We had originally plan- medicinal uses. For example, wild ned to camp at Red Crow College, but the bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is area where we had camped last summer made into a very effective tea to was under a metre of water with some fero- counteract diabetes, liver and stom- cious mosquitoes waiting to carry us off. It ach ailments; dried, ground ragwort didn’t take much convincing to move to a (Senecio species) florets will help motel in Cardston. asthma sufferers. Interesting, consid- The weekend ended on Sunday morning ering that the pollen of ragwort often with a drive to Belly Buttes, the sacred triggers asthma. grounds where Sundance is held every sum- Kenny also happens to be a story- mer in early August. This is the most im- teller extraordinaire. Between stories, portant religious event of the year and tribes medicinal knowledge and finding the gather from Montana, B.C. and other areas lovely spring flowers, the day flew. to take part in the religious and social fes- As we were not on any particular tivities. Belly Buttes is the highest point of schedule, Kenny not only told some land on the reserve and a wonderful spot to wonderful Blackfoot legends, he took take photos of this beautiful landscape. us to the places were these events Kenny Many Fingers Photo: E. Gordon occurred. Wow! Hearing the stories Don and I would like to thank Kenny, told in the places where they actually hap- However, this was the late 1800's and the Kansie, Jermayne, and Jane for a most won- pened took us back in time to the old days RCMP were in the process of establishing derful weekend. We’ll certainly be back at before contact with white people, and the white man’s law, so Char Coal was subse- every opportunity. k inevitable culture clashes. quently charged with murder. For several months he lived as a fugitive, hiding with sympathetic Kainai families and eluding the RCMP. Eventually however, acting on a tip, the RCMP ar- rested Char Coal just south of Pincher Creek, brought him to trial, and he was subsequently hanged for murder. This was a truly sad story of culture clash and misunderstanding. The area where Pretty Wolverine Woman had been seduced is on the banks of the Belly River in a lovely bergamot and lupine meadow with blue-eyed grass hiding among the grasses. There is no trace of the house left, although until recent years, some of the boards could still be found. There was something magical and terribly tragic listening to Kenny tell Burrowing Owl Nest Photo: E. Gordon the story. A wonderful day was enjoyed by The most poignant story is that of Char all and included a meal of traditional Indian Coal and his wife, Pretty Wolverine fry bread and tacos. This is not for the faint Woman. Pretty Wolverine Woman had of heart by any means, but diets and choles- been unfaithful with a cousin of Char Coal. terol were thrown to the wind and we dug Under traditional Blackfoot law, Char Coal right in. If you are ever driving on Highway had two choices. He could reject his wife 2 south of Standoff, look for the “Indian outright, or he could take her back. How- Fry Bread” sign on the east side of the ever, taking her back meant that he was highway and pull right in — highly recom- required to kill his cousin to restore honour mended! to his wife and himself. Char Coal truly The only really low spot of the day was loved Pretty Wolverine Woman and wanted that Botany Alberta 2005 had been resched- her back as his wife, so he carried out the uled due to flooding and violent spring deed of disposing of his cousin. Under storms. As a result, no one else was able to Blackfoot law, he and Pretty Wolverine make it on the June 25–26 weekend. How- Woman were now restored to marital bliss. ever, the results of the floods were apparent June Grass Photo: P. Cotterill

2 Fall 2005 Puzzling Pairs: Birches by Lorna Allen The bark can sometimes be Yes, it is a birch tree — but which one? yellowish or reddish brown or dark grey, especially on youn- ger trees. The surest way to tell the two apart is to look at the leaves. Shape tends to be different, although this can be difficult to judge. If you flip the leaf over and look at the underside, a good white birch will have distinct tufts of hairs tucked at the point Alaska birch leaves Photo: L. Allen where the veins intersect. While Alaska birch may have hairs along the edge, it doesn’t tend to have the clumps in the axils of the veins of the leaf. White birch, it seems, is an all-around hairier tree, with hair-covered twigs as well. In Alberta, further south than about Edmonton, if you Birch bark Photo: L. Allen see a birch tree, it probably is white birch. Most people will know that when they But from roughly the Central Parkland Nat- look at a tree with the unmistakable white ural Subregion, north, both species occur. bark that peels readily, they are looking at a In the southern part of its range, Alaska Iris birch. But which birch? Alaska birch birch seems (I think) to be the birch tree in is published three times a year by (Betula neoalaskana) or white (or paper) the little pockets of wetlands, while white ANPC. The Council aims to increase birch (B. papyrifera)? These are so similar birch tends to be found in the uplands. Let knowledge of Alberta’s wild flora and that some authors do not consider Alaska us know if your observations agree with to preserve this diverse resource for birch to be a separate species, but treat it as this. Further north, Alaska birch moves on the enjoyment of present and future a variety of white birch. Current taxonomy to the uplands as well, and in many areas, generations. however does recognize them as two sepa- becomes the main birch tree. k If you have an announcement, arti- rate species, and they are cle or other item, you are invited to treated as such in the Flora of submit it to the editor for publication. Alberta. Items concerning native plants will The table below compares be given highest priority. Alaska and white birch, and the information in it comes The editors reserve the right to edit submissions, but will review mostly from the description in changes with the authors whenever fhe Flora of Alberta (1992), possible. Disputes will be resolved in supplemented by information favour of the Audience. in Illustrated Flora of British Columbia, Vol 2. Both Copyright remains with the authors Alaska and white birch are except where noted. Permission to small trees (to 30 m tall). reprint is generally granted, but Both generally have white, please contact the editors for details. often peeling, bark with dark Submission deadlines for upcoming lenticels (small dots or spots). Paper birch leaves Photo: L. Allen issues:

Characteristic Alaska birch White birch Winter February 15, 2006 (Betula neoalaskana) (Betula papyrifera) Spring May 15, 2006 Twigs Mostly hairless; covered with More or less covered with long Fall Sept 15, 2006 glands hairs; occasionally glandular Leaf shape Deltoid (broadly triangular) Egg shaped in outline, broadest A subscription to Iris is included with near leaf petiole membership in the ANPC. To join, Leaf hairs May (or may not) have hairs on Tufts of hairs in vein axils on contact the Secretary, or check our the margin of the leaf but no leaf underside. web page, www.anpc.ab.ca tufts in vein axils on the leaf underside

Iris 3 Cuttings from the ANPC's 2005 Workshop: “Grow Naturelle” by Patsy Cotterill lines for the collection and use of wild 50,000 wood lilies have been raised and The ANPC’s 18th annual conference and plants in 1996. The guidelines are orga- given away to the public to raise awareness general meeting were held April 9, 2005 at nized into three categories: for wildcrafters of the depredations made on this species by the Coast Terrace Inn, Edmonton and fol- (a draft of these is now available for re- wild collecting. This may be a program that lowed by hands-on workshops at the Uni- view), for researchers and students (now in Alberta should emulate! versity of Alberta Devonian Botanic Gar- draft form) and for people working in recla- den on April 10. Ably organized by Elaine mation and horticulture (in the planning Wildflower Seed Mixes Gordon and Linda Kershaw, the confer- stage). One problem, Lorna explained, is Landscaper and garden designer Cynthia ence/workshops had as their theme low- that in Alberta we do not know exactly Pohl described the field trials she had con- impact gardening and the use of native which species are being used, and to what ducted at the Ellis Bird Farm during the plants in gardening and landscaping. extent. The guidelines will also indicate summer of 2004, growing out various com- Following a welcome by president Ed which plants are sensitive to collecting. It mercially available wildflower seed mixes. Karpuk, wild plant and garden enthusiast can be anticipated that increasing popular The results, showing very low biodiversity Cherry Dodd kicked off the morning’s pre- interest in native gardening will pose a and even less representation of locally na- sentations with a description of the work of threat to certain species, for example, tive plants, were startling but not totally the Edmonton Naturalization Group, a showy species with bulbs, cactuses and surprising. (Eileen Ford and her colleagues group of people who seek to promote use of orchids (as much as 10% of wild orchids in the Red Deer River Naturalists, doing native plants by growing similar if less rigorous out wild-collected seeds testing, has already re- or transplanting whole ported the “poppy and plants that have been bachelor’s buttons” syn- salvaged from the path drome to ANPC mem- of the bulldozer! These bers!) There are plenty either remain at the of things wrong with City’s nursery as stock these wildflower mixes for naturalization pro- that promise colourful jects, or are transplanted wildflower gardens from into some of the City’s a mere sprinkling of protected areas under the seeds: misleading adver- sanction of the City’s tising, poor results, inad- Partners-in-Parks pro- equate labelling, and per- gram. The removal of haps worst of all, the invasive aliens is, need- potential for importing less to say, a common invasive plant material. consumer of volunteer (The good news, how- hours, including last year ever, was that the only the start of a project to ENG’s demonstration bed at John Janzen Nature Centre Photo: P. Cotterill plant that appeared in remove caragana bushes Cynthia’s trials that is on from a river valley slope (Whitemud Creek) being sold commercially could be wild-col- Alberta’s list of noxious weeds was the where a calcium- and iron-rich seep makes lected). It is important to encourage people common dandelion!) As well as recording for interesting calciphile flora. Cherry is the to buy only nursery stock that has not been germination and growth of the contents, author, in conjunction with ENG, of a man- collected from the wild (see the report of Cynthia scored the seed packets themselves ual entitled Go Wild! With Easy to Grow June Flanagan’s presentation below). for the following desirable information: Prairie Wildflowers and Grasses, featuring Heavy harvesting of wild seed also carries common and Latin names, region in which selected Edmonton-area grassland plants potential dangers, including that of reduc- the species are native, germination require- that can be seen growing in a landscaped ing the food supply for wildlife. Research- ments and expiry date of seeds. None of the demonstration bed at the John Janzen Na- ers and students should be instructed to packets or mixes scored adequately. It ture Centre in Edmonton. collect no more than is absolutely necessary seems clear that there is a vast difference in for their work and if possible not whole meaning between “wildflower” (wild some- Collecting Wild Plants plants. Unfortunately, little is known about where, no doubt, as opposed to cultivated, Botanist/ecologist Lorna Allen’s presen- the extent and the impacts of collection of but usually not found growing wild in Al- tation entitled “What, where, when, how? non-vascular plants and mushrooms. The berta) and “native” meaning a naturally New ANPC guidelines for collecting wild next step in the process will be the dissemi- growing local plant. Members of the audi- plants” provided an update on this project, nation of the guidelines. Lorna noted an ence suggested that this distinction between which dates back to the first issue of guide- excellent project in Saskatchewan where native and wild should be explained on the

4 Fall 2005 ANPC website, together with a list of plant Adopt-a-Plant Program of an Edmonton group working to develop growers in Alberta who produce genuine The Adopt-a-Plant program currently a bylaw, finds Edmonton’s intransigence native seed mixes. Another suggestion was being launched under the auspices of the over changing the status quo frustrating that ANPC members could give talks to ANPC, the Alberta Natural Heritage Infor- given that 75% of Edmontonians are be- horticultural societies on this issue. mation Centre (ANHIC), the Fish and lieved to support a bylaw to phase out pesti- Wildlife Division of Alberta Sustainable cides on private and public land, and 72% Alien Invasive Plants Resources and the University of Alberta are estimated already not to be using pesti- Jim Posey, Calgary botanist and long- Devonian Botanic Garden evolved out of an cides. Elisabeth outlined some alternatives time ANPC member, in a talk entitled idea by Calgary botanist and consultant to water- and herbicide-guzzling conven- “Strangers in Old Man’s Garden” depicted, Dana Bush. René Belland, Assistant Direc- tional lawns, including planting drought- in words and pictures, a veritable rogues’ tor of the Devonian Botanic Garden, resistant grass or white clover, and gallery of alien invasive plants, together COSEWIC committee chairman and bry- xeriscaping. More information is available with fascinating facts about them and possi- ologist, explained in his presentation that at the Sierra Club’s website at ble means of control. Did you know that under this program volunteers selecting a pesticidefreeyards.org (which even includes Canada thistle (which some of us would rare plant (or plants) for adoption would be dandelion recipes!). prefer to be called creeping thistle or field trained to identify, locate and monitor this thistle after its Latin name) was already species. The data they obtain will be sub- Home Composting outlawed by 1885? Or that sheep can eat mitted to ANHIC, used in their tracking The City of Edmonton has won many leafy spurge? Or that nodding thistle is be- program and made available to authors of awards for its waste management programs, coming a problem in Fish Creek Provincial status reports, all for the purpose of making including recycling, composting of biode- Park, or that catnip (Nepeta cataria) is on decisions regarding conservation. Currently gradable materials, and wastewater treat- the increase in Writing-on-Stone Provincial the ANHIC tracking list includes approxi- ment. It also offers comprehensive courses Park? Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus) mately 480 species of vascular plants, 403 in home composting to citizens. Mark has been found in Red Deer; the ubiquitous bryophytes and 477 lichens. The goals of Stumpf-Allen, an employee of Edmonton yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is mostly the program include hiring a coordinator of Waste Management Branch in its Environ- European in origin. Jim is always looking volunteers (a paid position), developing an mental Programs, described the basics of for updates and additions to his gallery with interactive website, and organizing work- home composting in his talk “Crazy about the aim of posting the particulars of these shops to train volunteers, starting in 2006. composting!” He also indicated the correct “Not Wanted” on the ANPC website. Forms were available at the workshop for proportions in which to mix compost for participants to sign up. Anyone wanting potting soil, new beds and established gar- Native Plant Source List further information can contact any of the den beds. When, in 2003, botanist and horticultur- following: alist June Flanagan took on the task of up- René Belland in Edmonton Native Plants for Prairie Gardens dating the first version of the ANPC Native ([email protected]; (780) For her second presentation of the day Plant Seed Sources List compiled by Dana 987–3054); June Flanagan drew on her horticultural Bush 10 years earlier she little realized Dana Bush in Calgary ([email protected]; experience with native plants to provide what a magnum opus it was going to be: so (403) 750–7660); hints and guidelines for environmentally much had changed, plant names as well as Ed Karpuk in Red Deer friendly landscaping and gardening, the seed sources! Compiled after June had in- ([email protected]; (403) 340–7114 same experience that informs her recently terviewed suppliers of native plants and work, (403) 347–5723 home); published book, Native Plants for Prairie seed across the Prairies, the 2005 Native Margot.Hervieux in Grande Prairie Gardens. For example, she suggested Plant Source List is divided into three parts: ([email protected]; grouping together plants with similar water suppliers and contact information; services; (780) 538–5603). requirements to permit more efficient use of and an index to suppliers of particular spe- water, with an “oasis” zone closest to the cies by scientific name (It is a relief to Pesticides water source, followed by a transition zone know that the new names, obtained from Edmonton botanist Elisabeth Beaubien is of perennials and shrubs requiring less wa- the USDA, are cross-referenced to the old best known for her work on compiling ter, and a zone of drought-tolerant species names!). The index includes a description phenology records and her PlantWatch pro- (such as certain grasses, succulents and of the business’s specialty (most supply a gram, begun in Alberta in 1987 and ex- silver-hairy plants, such as Artemisia spp.). particular niche in the market), the sup- panded nation-wide in 2002. However, in In discussing native lawn grasses June plier’s unique number and the services pro- recent years in her spare time she has be- noted that there is no miracle grass: Ken- vided, for example, consultation, custom- come increasingly involved in — and vocal tucky bluegrass and red fescue green up growing, and give-aways. Special services about — pesticide (insecticide and herbi- early but become dormant in the summer may also include seed testing, specialized cide) issues. These have attracted public and require watering to remain green all native seed harvesting, custom plant labels, and media attention as more Canadian com- year; blue grama grass has been used suc- seed cleaning and contract seed production. munities pass bylaws phasing out the use of cessfully as a lawn grass but is late-season The source list will now be sent out to the pesticides for cosmetic purposes (e.g., to and becomes brittle when dormant. Other ANPC Board for input and review, then achieve a weed-free lawn). Elisabeth, a advice June offered included adding or- posted on the website, and subjected to pe- member of the Sierra Club of Canada’s ganic matter (annually) to the garden, riodic update. Prairie Chapter’s pesticide committee and mulching everything (shredded or chipped

Iris 5 bark is best, except where you want plants material, other wetland sites will serve as Mill Creek Natural Area will need to find a to self-seed, in which case you use com- models as well.) Important goals are that steward to take care of it in the future — post), and watering deeply (one inch per the newly constructed riverine marsh (ver- another opportunity for a partnership be- watering), infrequently, and before 10 in sus a closed-basin system) will constitute a tween City and citizenry, perhaps? the morning! On the question of improving “functional biological corridor” connected clay soils, June noted that it is much better to upstream and downstream reaches of Native Gardens to add organic material than sand. Mill Creek as well as perform stormwater “Garden is an active verb as well as a management functions such as attenuating noun,” admonished consultant, researcher, Partnerships in Edmonton peak flows and improving the quality of author and horticulturalist Ann Smreciu in In his talk entitled “Growing Partnerships drainage into lower Mill Creek Ravine. her keynote address to the workshop, fol- in Edmonton” John Helder, Principal of Human access for education and low-im- lowing the annual general meeting and the Horticulture for the City of Edmonton, pro- pact recreation will be encouraged by the banquet supper. Ann was referring to the vided insights into how Edmonton is engag- installation of trails and interpretive signs. “myth” that native plants grown in a garden ing in a variety of partnerships, mainly with Revegetation of the pond will involve using setting require little maintenance. Ann used citizens and non-profit groups, to help look soils (mud) salvaged from other wetlands in the ingenious and humorous technique of after the City’s parks, woodlots and other the Edmonton area, supplementary seeding reading out fictitious letters she had written natural or naturalized areas. Fostering pride and planting, and natural migration. As to highlight some of the popular misconcep- in and appreciation of City landscapes, these initiatives include the Communities in Bloom program (which now includes the competition categories “native plant garden” and “pesticide-free garden”), the annual river valley clean-up, the “Parks, Natu- rally” naturalization program, which has seen over 6,000 tree seedlings planted by volunteers since 1993, community gardens, school naturescaping, urban forestry (in which people take over ownership of City elms) and Partners-in-Parks, a flexible program that allows individuals or groups to volunteer in whatever ways interest them. Despite increasing community interest and involvement, John’s position in the City’s Community Services department has its challenges. He calls for more public education to promote natural area appreciation and stewardship since, he says, “not every- body loves an urban woodlot.”

Wetland Restoration ENG’s demonstration bed at John Janzen Nature Centre Photo: P. Cotterill In the final presentation of the afternoon, landscape architect Bob Gibbs described a well, a deep marsh (with bulrushes), as tions about naturescaping, for example, the project he has undertaken for the City of shallow marsh (with cattails and sedges), letter from the lady who thought she was Edmonton, in collaboration with Lynn and a littoral zone (with marsh grasses and nurturing a wild ecosystem in her Maslen of Spencer Environmental Manage- rushes) will be established. Other ecosys- dandelion-infested lawn, and couldn’t un- ment Services. It involves creating a wet- tems to be created are a wet meadow, a derstand why the neighbours were less than land in an environmentally significant area grassland, and plantings of woody material enthusiastic! Ann’s point was that we need of Edmonton (Roper Mill Creek Natural including willow beds, riverine forest beds to have realistic expectations about garden- Area) according to principles of ecological with balsam poplar and appropriate flooding with natives, and not mislead or be mis- restoration (as opposed to more conven- tolerant understory species, and mixed led into thinking that it is necessarily simple tional reclamation processes) as set out by woods. To enhance habitat, boulders will be or easy. (Nevertheless, Ann, whose M.Sc. the Society for Ecological Restoration strategically placed as dragonfly perches, topic was the germination requirements of (www.ser.org), of which Bob is a member. bat and bird boxes installed, and the pond native plants, remains a keen practitioner It will follow an ecological trajectory, or stocked with brook stickleback. Bob noted and proponent of native gardening.) First, pathway to the desired ecosystem, which that he is developing protocols for the mon- we need to be clear about what is meant by will resemble an existing system, in this itoring and management of such a restored “native”; the thinking now is that plants case shorelines of the Sturgeon River ecosystem, which are much more complex should come from at least the same natural downstream of Big Lake, the reference eco- than for a traditionally reclaimed area region as the one in which they are to be system in SER parlance. (For practical rea- (where certain fixed standards have merely grown. As botanists, we have a responsibil- sons dictated by the availability of plant to be achieved). He observed that Roper ity to increase awareness of the problem of

6 Fall 2005 invasive plants. It may also not be true that native plants require less water and nutri- Endangered ents than cultivated ones, especially if they haven’t been able to develop a good root Species Update The Alberta Native Plant system during establishment, or if they lack Council the complex trophic relationships (e.g., by C. Dana Bush Garneau P.O. 52099 mycorrhizae) that they had in the wild; the Species Approved by Endangered Spe- Edmonton, AB T6G 2T5 garden is not the same environment as the website: www.anpc.ab.ca cies Conservation Committee (ESCC) for email: [email protected] one to which they are adapted. Maintenance Listing under Alberta’s Wildlife Act: is essential: it may be necessary to control 2005-2006 Board the spread of rhizomatous plants or prolific Endangered President seed producers, and native perennials will Vacant Soapweed – Yucca glauca need dividing. Weeding is still a fact of life, Past President Western spiderwort – Tradescantia as is mulching. Native plant seeds, espe- Ed Karpuk occidentalis [email protected] cially woody ones, can have complex Tiny cryptanthe – Cryptantha minima dormancies, evolved to aid survival through Secretary Lorna Allen unfavourable times or conditions, and so Threatened [email protected] may require cold periods (stratification) or, Sand verbena – Tripterocalyx micranthus Treasurer as in many leguminous species, physical Mryka Hall-Beyer abrasion of the seed coat (scarification), to Special Concern [email protected] achieve germination. Ann said she always Western blue-flag – Iris missouriensis Directors advises her clients to examine their motives Patricia McIsaac (Northern) (why they want a native garden), choose [email protected] Data Deficient plants that suit their garden condition, start Eileen Ford (Central) Slender mouse-ear-cress – Halimolobos [email protected] small, remember that plants can be custom- virgata Vacant (Southern) grown by nurseries, follow the guidelines FAN Directors for collecting seeds if wild-harvesting: col- Status Under Review Nicolas DeGama-Blanchet lect legally, get landowner permission, Porsild’s bryum – Mielichhoferia macro- nic.degamablanchet know the growing requirements of the @natureconservancy.ca carpa seeds, oh! and be able to recognize the Vacant (alternate) seedlings, so as not to weed them out inad- Conservation Action Plant Species Status Changes vertently! On a philosophical note, Ann Vacant Western blue-flag was down-listed from warned against the “ark mentality”, the no- Membership Secretary “Threatened” to a “Species of Special Con- tion that native gardening is going to make Kelly Ostermann cern”. A five-year status evaluation was [email protected] a large contribution to the preservation of completed and the risk categories were re- Education and Information biodiversity. For this purpose, it is always assessed. Status recommendations, con- Mari Decker better to preserve natural habitats! tained in the ESCC Scientific Sub-commit- [email protected] Jim Posey tee’s Status Evaluation were as follows: Workshop [email protected] “The Western Blue Flag did not clearly On Sunday, April 10, Ann Smreciu and Rare Plants qualify under any of the risk categories. her consulting assistant Michelle Pahl, to- Linda Kershaw However, because this species lies close to [email protected] gether with Cherry Dodd, who provided the thresholds for Criterion D2, and as a C. Dana Bush some of the seeds, conducted morning and precaution owing to the previous recom- [email protected] afternoon workshop sessions at the Univer- mendation to list this species as Threatened Reclamation and Horticulture sity of Alberta Devonian Botanic Garden in Alberta, the subcommittee agreed that June Flanagan greenhouse, demonstrating how to sow and [email protected] this species should be identified as a ‘Spe- water a variety of native plant species. Par- Webmaster cies of Special Concern’.” ticipants took home their pots in anticipa- Ken Sanderson Slender mouse-ear-cress was recom- tion of the upcoming growing season! Ann [email protected] mended as “Data Deficient”, as the ESCC also showed us some of the native woody Newsletter Committee Scientific Sub-committee deemed insuffi- plants she has in experimental trials at the Laurie Hamilton cient data for properly assessing the risk [email protected] Garden, being grown for restoration pro- categories. Alfred Falk jects in the Fort McMurray area. k [email protected] Porsild’s bryum is listed as a species of Janice Smith priority for detailed status reports planned [email protected] for 2004–2005. k Chris Manderson [email protected] Pat McIsaac [email protected]

Iris 7 Wildcrafting Tips ANPC Objectives by Linda Kershaw which plants are sensitive to collecting and Fall is the season for harvesting, and which plants are likely to be collected by The Alberta Native Plant Council putting aside provisions for winter. With so other visitors. Feel free to remove the entire strives to: much rain this summer, 2005 has been a plant if the plant is an invasive weed, but ! Promote knowledge of Alberta's native plants. wonderful year for fruits and vegetables. try not to spread weed seeds or to create ! Conserve Alberta's native plant My garden has never produced such giant new habitat by leaving disturbed ground. species and their habitats. potatoes and sweet, crunchy carrots as How much should we collect? ! Preserve plant species and we've enjoyed this fall. The freezer is also Try to take the plant's population size habitat for the enjoyment of filled with chopped apples from our back- into consideration. If there are only 10 present and future generations. yard trees and a bucket of saskatoons from plants in an area, taking one will have a the bushes along our ski trails. It was easy much greater impact than removing 10 from The Council's specific objectives picking this summer, and farther north, the a site with thousands of plants. Similarly, are: blueberry crop was equally abundant. gathering a cup of berries when the berry ! To educate individuals, industry, Most of us love the special flavour of crop is poor could have a much greater im- and government about native wild berries, and we also enjoy the pleasant pact than picking a bucketful in a bumper- plants. pastime of picking fruit on fall and summer crop year. The Collecting Guidelines sug- ! To promote awareness of native outings. Often, we just nibble along the gest a 1-in-50 rule of thumb for gathering plant issues through a newsletter, way, but when fruit is abundant we may plants and plant parts such as fruits and an annual workshop, and in the make a more concerted effort to gather flowers. media. enough for a pie, enough to make syrup or There are lots of helpful pointers in the ! To co-ordinate information and jam, or enough to freeze. That way we can ANPC Plant Collection Guidelines for activities concerning Alberta's enjoy the taste of summer year-round. But Wildcrafters. Check out the first draft in the native plants. how much is “enough”? How much can we publications section of the ANPC website " To develop briefs or position take from an area without harming the wild at www.anpc.ab.ca/downloads.htm. If you papers for special projects; plants and animals that live there? have any questions or comments, be sure to for example, biodiversity, The ANPC recently completed the first let us know. The guidelines will continue to forest vegetation draft of its Plant Collection Guidelines for evolve as our understanding of ecological management, wetlands, rare Wildcrafters. These guidelines are designed and genetic processes and the role of native species or phenology. to help people assess the potential impact of vegetation in maintaining these processes " To organize field trips, plant gathering wild plants, and to encourage develops. Conscientious wildcrafters al- studies and May Species considerate collecting for food, medicine, ways strive to have minimal impacts on Counts. and crafts. wild populations. k " To update lists of current Here are few of the questions to consider research and conservation when gathering wild plants. projects. Where should we collect? ! To preserve natural habitats and Areas that are visited by large num- plant communities. bers of people (e.g. trails through pub- " To support legislation that lic land) are susceptible to repeated protects native plants. collecting. If everyone takes a few " To take action to establish, berries, the total amount taken is mul- preserve and manage tiplied many times. Never collect protected areas. from parks and reserves or from frag- " To undertake Alberta projects ile habitats such sand dunes and jointly with like-minded wetlands. On private land, get permis- groups. sion from the owner. Disturbed areas ! To encourage appropriate use of such as roadsides and sites slated for Alberta's native plants. development will generally be least " To produce information on affected by collecting. However, vehi- the use of native plants in cles and vehicle exhaust along roads land reclamation. can be hazardous. " To develop and distribute What should we collect? collection, salvage and Know your plants. If you're not management guidelines. completely sure of the identity of the " To update a list of native plant, don’t collect it. It could be poi- seed sources and suppliers sonous, or it could be rare. If only part for horticulture and of the plant is going to be used, take reclamation. that part and leave the rest. Learn Saskatoon Berries Photo: L. Kershaw

8 Fall 2005 Rising energy prices and new technolo- Coalbed Methane Development in gies have resulted in interest among oil and gas corporations to drill for resources, Rumsey: David meets Goliath which previously were uneconomical. Coalbed methane, also referred to as natural by Cheryl Bradley made by some committed staff to improve gas in coal, is one such resource. The Al- Drillers of coalbed methane wells are reclamation procedures and address inva- berta Government has refused to manage poised to trump conservation interests in sive species, but for the most part manage- coalbed methane development differently the Rumsey Natural Area this fall because ment plan recommendations regarding eco- from conventional oil and gas development, government has sold the mineral rights in system protection were not implemented. despite the threat of substantially higher the protected area and has failed to provide Fortunately there was not much conven- well densities and environmental impacts. leadership in protecting this internationally tional oil and gas drilling activity in the In early 2004, Trident Exploration Corp. significant treasure. It is widely recognized area due to poor prospects. In 1999, Amoco was allowed to drill a coalbed methane well that survival of plains rough fes- in the Rumsey Natural Area. cue (Festuca hallii) grasslands in Conservation interests were not Alberta, and in the world, is aware of this new activity in the heavily reliant on protection and protected area until after the well wise management of the 183 km2 and a pipeline were completed, Rumsey Ecological Reserve and in violation of conditions placed Natural Area, located about 80 on the activity by Public Lands. km north of Drumheller. Conser- Trident now is proposing a major vation interests, including the drilling program on 31 sections Alberta Native Plant Council, are within the Natural Area. Trident opposing the industrial intrusion has 100% mineral ownership of and holding government account- 5 sections and contractual agree- able for its commitments to pro- ments with other companies to tect the area’s ecosystems. develop 26 sections. Trident In the 1970s it was recognized wants to drill at least one well that Rumsey was the biggest and per section prior to December 31, best representation of aspen 2005. parkland, including plains rough Approach to wellsite in Rumsey showing disturbance species Over the last year ANPC has fescue grasslands, remaining in Photo: C. Bradley had numerous discussions with Canada. Throughout the 1980s, Trident and with front line gov- complaints by conservation interests about Canada routed a major pipeline around the ernment staff responsible for managing the fragmentation of the area’s ecosystems by Natural Area due to conservation concerns. Rumsey Ecological Reserve and Natural roads and pipelines led to development of a Meanwhile, the conservation status of Area. All parties agree there is a need to management plan for Rumsey South. The plains rough fescue communities was be- improve our understanding of the current plan, completed in the early 1990s, allows coming clearer. A study published in 2003 condition of range and aquatic ecosystems, for responsible use of resources provided by the Resource Data Branch reported that to monitor the effects of land use activities the natural ecosystems are preserved and only 12% of grassland remnants in the Cen- on plains rough fescue grasslands, to assess protected. Drilling of new wells was al- tral Aspen Parkland support plains rough cumulative effects, and to find ways of re- lowed along existing access routes, which fescue community types and about half of storing rough fescue grasslands. But, for extend through most of the area. The plan these have invasive non-native plants, in- economic reasons, Trident is intent on pro- also commits government to conduct bio- cluding the highly aggressive awnless ceeding in haste with a drilling program in physical inventories, to assess the success brome (Bromus inermis). Researchers failed the Natural Area using a micromanagement of past and current reclamation activities, to to find examples of successful restoration approach on individual wellsites. Allowing review the cumulative environmental ef- of rough fescue grassland following distur- the activity to proceed will be akin to shut- fects of oil and gas development, and to bance except along small pipelines, which ting the barn door after the horses are out monitor vegetation change and activities are plowed in or use “no strip” construc- when it comes to conservation of the area’s that may affect the area’s environmental tion. All plains rough fescue plant commu- ecosystems. The plains rough fescue grass- integrity. nities were placed on a provincial tracking lands in Rumsey are too important to lose. In 1996 Rumsey South was designated a list of plant communities reflecting a high ANPC is working with other conservation Natural Area as part of Alberta’s Special priority for conservation. Designation of organizations to prevent Trident from pro- Places program. The management plan for rough fescue as Alberta’s provincial grass ceeding. It promises to be a David and Go- Rumsey South was not revised to reflect the emblem in 2003 recognized “the impor- liath battle given the large bureaucracy in new protected area status. Alberta Energy, tance that wild grass species have played Alberta Energy and the Energy Utilities despite the objections of conservationists, and will continue to play in our province Board, which traditionally favours develop- continued to sell mineral rights in the Natu- and the need to ensure these species con- ment, whether or not an area has protected ral Area. Public land managers experienced tinue to thrive and survive” (Hon. Shirley area designation. Stay tuned for more up- huge slashes in budgets. Attempts were McClellan, Hansard 24 Feb). dates in Iris. k

Iris 9 Book Review meadow, prairie) and growing conditions (drought-tolerant, dry soil in shade, acidic 100 Easy-to-Grow soil, deep shade, moist areas). Though in both cases, again, if you want only plants Native Plants for native to Alberta, you will have fewer species to choose from than these sections im- Canadian Gardens ply. Addresses for nurseries that sell native plants across the country are presented, reviewed by Mari Decker including five from Alberta. The updated “100 Easy-to-Grow Native The author, Lorraine Johnson, appears to Plants for Canadian Gardens” is a well be well-versed in native gardening, having compiled and enjoyable read, featuring been the president of the North American plenty of good colour photos and user- Native Plant Society, author of several friendly information on growing require- books, a regular contributor to gardening ments. The book covers native plants from journals, and a correspondent on radio and coast-to-coast, rather than being specific to television gardening shows. Though she is our region, so if the reader is a purist and perhaps guilty of the ANPC-noted danger wants to plant only Alberta natives, they of over-simplifying native gardening, her will need to be discerning. Canada is here argument in favour of native gardening is divided into three regions: Northwest, Prai- able in Alberta nurseries. The author in- well-formed and interesting to read. We rie, and Northeast, and interestingly cludes “Guidelines for Ethical Gardening” have the ability to create “small places of enough, most of Alberta doesn’t fit into any (from the North American Native Plant ecosystem health”, so “dig-in! The roots of of these areas. Other than the southeast Society), which serves to educate readers change need to be anchored deep.” We “prairie” corner, we are a blank space on on the necessity of not negatively impacting need more tools on the market to encourage the distribution map presented! native plants in native habitats. more people to do this the better! And for a However, of the 100 fully-featured The layout of each full-feature page is reasonable price, this book would make a plants, 21 species are native to Alberta, and spacious and the information is well re- nice gift for a native gardener you know (or of the many other plants mentioned in the searched. Two nice features of the book are a treat for yourself!), either as an introduc- “Related Species” section on each page, a “Good Companions” section on each tion to native gardening, or an addition to a about 45 other Alberta natives are included. full-feature page, and a series of quick ref- growing native plant library. k Some of these are plants on our rare track- erence colour picture lists at the back for ing list though, and will likely not be avail- each region, different habitats (woodland,

VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER POSITION: POSITION: PRESIDENT CONSERVATION COMMITTEE ANPC needs a president! Main duties are to call and ANPC is looking for a volun- chair the bi-monthly board teer for the conservation meetings, and delegate action committee to work to con- items. It is an opportunity to serve native plant habitats. “make a difference” while working with a fun group of For more information, please enthusiastic volunteers. check out the ANPC website at For more information, please www.anpc.ab.ca check out the ANPC website at or contact Lorna Allen at www.anpc.ab.ca [email protected] or contact Lorna Allen at Smooth blue beard-tongue (Penstemon [email protected] nitidis) Photo: M. Decker

10 Fall 2005 Plant Happenings by Lorna Allen Species At Risk 2004 Pathways to Recov- COURSES AND WORKSHOPS ery conference proceedings are now posted on the conference website at Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan http://www.speciesatrisk2004.ca/html/ AGM and workshop searchform.html www.npss.sk.ca/events.html Feb 9–11, 2006 Yorkton, Saskatchewan. WEBSITES

Canadian Land Reclamation Association Botany Links (CLRA) and International Affiliation of www.botany.net/IDB/bot-pt.html#qs Land Reclamationists (IALR) (Submitted by J. Posey) www.clra.ca First Announcement and Call for Papers Invasive species Annual Meeting and Conference: www.gri.msstate.edu/about/news/2004/ August 20–23, 2006 usgs-invasive-09-27-2004.php Crowne Plaza Hotel www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov Ottawa, Ontario www.weedcenter.org Technical sessions, short courses, field (Submitted by Ksenija Vujnovic): Dames Rocket (Hesperis matronalis) trips, trade show and banquet. Photo: A. Elliot Invasive species The Devonian Botanic Garden’s fall http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/invasive course list is now out. /IAP_01.htm tion on native Canadian wildflowers. Les- www.devonian.ualberta.ca An interesting approach to address the inva- sons include full class plans. This site also sive species problem. (Submitted by K. provides extensive information about Cana- Ostermann) dian vegetation. (Submitted by Elisabeth Beaubien) PUBLICATIONS Evergreen Native Plant Database: Lesson Plans Wikispecies A field guide to Common Riparian www.evergreen.ca/en/lg/plans_listing.html species.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page Plants of Alberta. The Evergreen Native Plant Database was “Wikispecies is a new project supported by www.cowsandfish.org developed principally to provide informa- the Wikimedia Foundation with a great po- Click on publications. tential. It is meant to become an open, free directory of species. This will cover ani- malia, plantae, fungi, bacteria, archaea, protista and all other forms of life to the extent that our users allow us.” (Submitted by John Rintoul)

Citizen Scientists www.citizenscience.ca Learn about fellow Citizen Scientists and monitoring initiatives. (Submitted by John Rintoul)

Biodiversity Data Portal ge.gbif.net Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) data portal for its new connection with Google Earth. Click on the following information link to find system requirements and to download application. Species then can be searched by scientific name globally, and each point highlighted to specific (mostly specimen) information. (Sub- mitted by Marilyn Anions) k Black Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) Photo: A. Elliot

Iris 11 The Nisku Prairie Management Committee invites you…

To check out the many opportunities, move the various projects forward. organization, To learn, experience, enjoy and Planning for next growing season and " Stewardship reports, To make a real difference. preparation of Nisku Prairie for the winter " Pamphlets, ahead. " Signage, By pitching in with your energy and We have the following areas that we " Creation of a crest, talents you’ll be helping to ensure that the need a hand with: " Grant applications, Nisku Native Prairie Reserve continues to ! Winter preparation, which includes: " Coordination of a grazing lease, be a living example of rough fescue " Mowing grass, " Webpage creation and grassland and aspen parkland for future " Picking seeds, " Volunteer appreciation initiatives. generations. The growing season is a very “hands-on” " Pulling weeds, If you’re interested or would like more time at Nisku Native Prairie Reserve (Nisku " Updating vascular plant species list information, please contact: Prairie): volunteers pull weeds, pick seeds, " Starting species lists for lichens, plant, pitch refuse, paint plants with non-vascular plants and insects. Birgit Friedenstab herbicide and more! This results in the ! Administration, which includes: Volunteer Steward for Nisku Native opportunity for both volunteers and the " Maintenance of the contact list, Prairie Reserve community to enjoy the beauty and " Volunteer coordination, Alberta Native Plant Council biodiversity of the grasslands and aspen " Advertising, 780–440–0971 groves. " Leadership for work bees, [email protected] k With the snow, the work goes indoors, to " Smooth brome control program

Adopt-a-Plant Alberta Logo Contest

Adopt-a-Plant Alberta is an exciting new programme that will allow interested ama- All entries must be delivered by February teur and professional botanists to become 28, 2006 to: directly involved in the conservation of rare plants in Alberta. This initiative has been Lisa Matthias generating a great deal of interest among Alberta Sustainable Resource Devel- plant enthusiasts throughout the province. opment More details are provided in this issue of Fish and Wildlife Division Iris. Resource Data and Species at Risk The Adopt-a-Plant Alberta organizing 2nd Floor, Great West Life Building committee has decided that this new pro- 9920 – 108 St. gramme needs an eye-catching logo. Here Edmonton, Alberta, is your opportunity to apply your creative T5K 2M4 talents and help the committee come up with a pleasing design. The committee rec- e-mail: [email protected] ommends that the logo include the name phone: (780) 422–8411 “Adopt-a-Plant Alberta” and a unique sym- fax: (780) 422–9557 bol or relatively simple image based on the theme of rare plants. Beyond this let your The contestant who submits the winning imagination and creativity run free! Entries logo will receive an autographed copy of will be accepted either as a paper document ANPC's award-winning book Rare Plants sent by mail or as a digital image in JPEG of Alberta and an original watercolour or TIF format sent as an e-mail attachment. Contest prize Original watercolour: C. D. painting by C. Dana Bush. Please remember to include your name, Bush address, phone number and if you have one, Thank you in advance for your participa- an e-mail address. tion and good luck! k

12 Fall 2005