Vol. 77 Wednesday, No. 225 November 21, 2012

Part III

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 period October 1, 2011, through Species-specific information and September 30, 2012. 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 192 candidate species identified in appropriate Regional Office listed below [Docket No. FWS–R9–ES–2012–0050; MO– this CNOR. under Request for Information in 4500030113] DATES: We will accept information on SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. General any of the species in this Candidate information we receive will be available Endangered and Threatened Wildlife Notice of Review at any time. at the Office of Communications and and Plants; Review of Native Species Candidate Conservation, Arlington, VA ADDRESSES: That Are Candidates for Listing as This notice is available on (see address under FOR FURTHER Endangered or Threatened; Annual the Internet at http:// INFORMATION CONTACT). Notice of Findings on Resubmitted www.regulations.gov and http:// Candidate Notice of Review Petitions; Annual Description of www.fws.gov/endangered/what-we-do/ Progress on Listing Actions cnor.html. Species assessment forms Background with information and references on a AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, particular candidate species’ range, The Endangered Species Act of 1973, Interior. status, habitat needs, and listing priority as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (ESA), requires that we identify species ACTION: Notice of review. assignment are available for review at the appropriate Regional Office listed of wildlife and plants that are SUMMARY: In this Candidate Notice of below in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION or endangered or threatened, based on the Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and at the Office of Communications and best available scientific and commercial Wildlife Service (Service), present an Candidate Conservation, Arlington, VA information. As defined in section 3 of updated list of plant and animal species (see address under FOR FURTHER the ESA, an endangered species is any native to the United States that we INFORMATION CONTACT), or on our Web species which is in danger of extinction regard as candidates for or have site (http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/ throughout all or a significant portion of proposed for addition to the Lists of pub/candidateSpecies.jsp). Please its range, and a threatened species is Endangered and Threatened Wildlife submit any new information, materials, any species which is likely to become and Plants under the Endangered comments, or questions of a general an endangered species within the Species Act of 1973, as amended. nature on this notice to the Arlington, foreseeable future throughout all or a Identification of candidate species can VA, address listed under FOR FURTHER significant portion of its range. Through assist environmental planning efforts by INFORMATION CONTACT. Please submit any the Federal rulemaking process, we add providing advance notice of potential new information, materials, comments, species that meet these definitions to listings, allowing landowners and or questions pertaining to a particular the List of Endangered and Threatened resource managers to alleviate threats species to the address of the Endangered Wildlife at 50 CFR 17.11 or the List of and thereby possibly remove the need to Species Coordinator in the appropriate Endangered and Threatened Plants at 50 list species as endangered or threatened. Regional Office listed in SUPPLEMENTARY CFR 17.12. As part of this program, we Even if we subsequently list a candidate INFORMATION. maintain a list of species that we regard species, the early notice provided here as candidates for listing. A candidate FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The could result in more options for species species is one for which we have on file Endangered Species Coordinator(s) in management and recovery by prompting sufficient information on biological the appropriate Regional Office(s), or candidate conservation measures to vulnerability and threats to support a Chief, Office of Communications and alleviate threats to the species. proposal to list as endangered or The CNOR summarizes the status and Candidate Conservation, U.S. Fish and threatened, but for which preparation threats that we evaluated in order to Wildlife Service, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, and publication of a proposal is determine that species qualify as Room 420, Arlington, VA 22203 precluded by higher-priority listing candidates and to assign a listing (telephone 703–358–2171). Persons who actions. We may identify a species as a priority number (LPN) to each species or use a telecommunications device for the candidate for listing after we have to determine that species should be deaf (TDD) may call the Federal conducted an evaluation of its status on removed from candidate status. Information Relay Service (FIRS) at our own initiative, or after we have Additional material that we relied on is 800–877–8339. made a positive finding on a petition to available in the Species Assessment and SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We list a species, in particular we have Listing Priority Assignment Forms request additional status information found that listing is warranted but (species assessment forms) for each that may be available for any of the precluded by other higher priority candidate species. candidate species identified in this listing actions (see the Petition Findings Overall, this CNOR recognizes two CNOR. We will consider this section, below). new candidates, changes the LPN for information to monitor changes in the We maintain this list of candidates for nine candidates, and removes three status or LPN of candidate species and a variety of reasons: To notify the public species from candidate status. to manage candidates as we prepare that these species are facing threats to Combined with other decisions for listing documents and future revisions their survival; to provide advance individual species that were published to the notice of review. We also request knowledge of potential listings that separately from this CNOR in the past information on additional species to could affect decisions of environmental year, the current number of species that consider including as candidates as we planners and developers; to provide are candidates for listing is 192. prepare future updates of this notice. information that may stimulate and This document also includes our You may submit your information guide conservation efforts that will findings on resubmitted petitions and concerning this notice in general or for remove or reduce threats to these describes our progress in revising the any of the species included in this species and possibly make listing Lists of Endangered and Threatened notice by one of the methods listed in unnecessary; to request input from Wildlife and Plants (Lists) during the the ADDRESSES section. interested parties to help us identify

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those candidate species that may not shorter timescale (once the threats are included in this notice as a candidate is require protection under the ESA or imminent) than for species with lower one for which we have sufficient additional species that may require the magnitude threats. Because we do not information to prepare a proposed rule ESA’s protections; and to request routinely quantify how likely or how to list because it is in danger of necessary information for setting soon extinction would be expected to extinction or likely to become priorities for preparing listing proposals. occur absent listing, we must evaluate endangered within the foreseeable We strongly encourage collaborative factors that contribute to the likelihood future throughout all or a significant conservation efforts for candidate and time scale for extinction. We portion of its range. species, and offer technical and therefore consider information such as: For more information on the process financial assistance to facilitate such The number of populations or extent of and standards used in assigning LPNs, efforts. For additional information range of the species affected by the a copy of the 1983 guidance is available regarding such assistance, please threat(s) or both; the biological on our Web site at: http://www.fws.gov/ contact the appropriate Regional Office significance of the affected endangered/esa-library/pdf/48fr43098- listed under Request for Information or population(s), taking into consideration 43105.pdf. For more information on the visit our Web site, http://www.fws.gov/ the life-history characteristics of the LPN assigned to a particular species, the endangered/what-we-do/cca.html. species and its current abundance and species assessment for each candidate distribution; whether the threats affect contains the LPN chart and a rationale Previous Notices of Review the species in only a portion of its range, for the determination of the magnitude We have been publishing candidate and if so, the likelihood of persistence and immediacy of threat(s) and notices of review (CNOR) since 1975. of the species in the unaffected portions; assignment of the LPN; that information The most recent CNOR (prior to this the severity of the effects and the is summarized in this CNOR. CNOR) was published on October 26, rapidity with which they have caused or This revised notice supersedes all 2011 (76 FR 66370). CNORs published are likely to cause mortality to previous animal, plant, and combined since 1994 are available on our Web individuals and accompanying declines candidate notices of review. site, http://www.fws.gov/endangered/ in population levels; whether the effects Summary of This CNOR what-we-do/cnor.html. For copies of are likely to be permanent; and the CNORs published prior to 1994, please extent to which any ongoing Since publication of the previous contact the Office of Communications conservation efforts reduce the severity CNOR on October 26, 2011 (76 FR and Candidate Conservation (see FOR of the threat. 66370), we reviewed the available FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section As used in our priority-ranking information on candidate species to above). system, immediacy of threat is ensure that a proposed listing is On September 21, 1983, we published categorized as either ‘‘imminent’’ or justified for each species, and guidance for assigning an LPN for each ‘‘nonimminent’’ and is based on when reevaluated the relative LPN assigned to candidate species (48 FR 43098). Using the threats will begin. If a threat is each species. We also evaluated the this guidance, we assign each candidate currently occurring or likely to occur in need to emergency-list any of these an LPN of 1 to 12, depending on the the very near future, we classify the species, particularly species with high magnitude of threats, immediacy of threat as imminent. Determining the priorities (i.e., species with LPNs of 1, threats, and taxonomic status; the lower immediacy of threats helps ensure that 2, or 3). This review and reevaluation the LPN, the higher the listing priority species facing actual, identifiable threats ensures that we focus conservation (that is, a species with an LPN of 1 are given priority for listing proposals efforts on those species at greatest risk would have the highest listing priority). over those for which threats are only first. Section 4(h)(3) of the ESA (16 U.S.C. potential or species that are intrinsically In addition to reviewing candidate 1533(h)(3)) requires the Secretary to vulnerable to certain types of threats but species since publication of the last establish guidelines for such a priority- are not known to be presently facing CNOR, we have worked on numerous ranking guidance system. As explained such threats. findings in response to petitions to list below, in using this system we first Our priority ranking system has three species, and on proposed and final categorize based on the magnitude of categories for taxonomic status: Species determinations for rules to list species the threat(s), then by the immediacy of that are the sole members of a genus; under the ESA. Some of these findings the threat(s), and finally by taxonomic full species (in genera that have more and determinations have been status. than one species); and subspecies and completed and published in the Federal Under this priority-ranking system, distinct population segments of Register, while work on others is still magnitude of threat can be either ‘‘high’’ vertebrate species (DPS). under way (see Preclusion and or ‘‘moderate to low.’’ This criterion The result of the ranking system is Expeditious Progress, below, for details). helps ensure that the species facing the that we assign each candidate a listing Based on our review of the best greatest threats to their continued priority number of 1 to 12. For example, available scientific and commercial existence receive the highest listing if the threats are of high magnitude, information, with this CNOR we priority. It is important to recognize that with immediacy classified as imminent, identify 2 new candidate species (see all candidate species face threats to their the listable entity is assigned an LPN of New Candidates, below), change the continued existence, so the magnitude 1, 2, or 3 based on its taxonomic status LPN for 9 candidates (see Listing of threats is in relative terms. For all (i.e., a species that is the only member Priority Changes in Candidates, below) candidate species, the threats are of of its genus would be assigned to the and determine that a listing proposal is sufficiently high magnitude to put them LPN 1 category, a full species to LPN 2, not warranted for 3 species and thus in danger of extinction, or make them and a subspecies or DPS would be remove them from candidate status (see likely to become in danger of extinction assigned to LPN 3). In summary, the Candidate Removals, below). Combined in the foreseeable future. But for species LPN ranking system provides a basis for with the other decisions published with higher magnitude threats, the making decisions about the relative separately from this CNOR, a total of threats have a greater likelihood of priority for preparing a proposed rule to 192 species (including 69 plant and 123 bringing about extinction or are list a given species. No matter which animal species) are now candidates expected to bring about extinction on a LPN we assign to a species, each species awaiting preparation of rules proposing

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their listing. These 192 species, along remaining known distribution of the Cumberland arrow darter is a brightly with the 94 species currently proposed least chipmunk is restricted to open, colored darter with a total length of 116 for listing (including 6 species proposed high elevation, talus slopes within a millimeters (4.6 inches). It is restricted for listing due to similarity in subalpine grassland, located in the to the upper Cumberland River basin in appearance), are included in Table 1. Sierra Blanca area, White Mountains, southeastern Kentucky and northeastern Table 2 lists the changes from the Lincoln and Otero Counties, New Tennessee. The Cumberland arrow previous CNOR, and includes 47 species Mexico. darter typically inhabits small, identified in the previous CNOR as The Pen˜ asco least chipmunk faces headwater streams (first to third order) either proposed for listing or classified threats from present or threatened but is sometimes observed in larger as candidates that are no longer in those destruction, modification, and streams or small rivers. Its preferred categories. This includes 41 species for curtailment of its habitat from the habitat consists of pools or transitional which we published a final listing rule, alteration or loss of mature ponderosa areas between riffles and pools (runs 1 species for which we published a pine forests in one of the two and glides) in moderate to high gradient withdrawal of a proposed rule, 2 historically-occupied areas. The streams with bedrock, boulder, and candidate species for which we documented decline in occupied cobble substrates. Cumberland arrow published separate not-warranted localities, in conjunction with the small darters feed on a variety of aquatic findings and removed from candidate numbers of individuals captured, are invertebrates, but adults feed status, plus the 3 species in this notice linked to widespread habitat alteration. predominantly on larval mayflies (order that we have determined do not meet Moreover, the highly-fragmented nature Ephemeroptera), specifically the the definition of an endangered or of its current distribution is a significant families Heptageniidae and Baetidae. threatened species and therefore do not contributor to the vulnerability of this Rangewide surveys from 2010 to 2012 warrant listing. We have removed these subspecies and increases the likelihood revealed that the Cumberland arrow species from candidate status in this of very small, isolated populations being darter has been extirpated from portions CNOR. extirpated. As a result of this of its range. During these efforts, the fragmentation, even if suitable habitat New Candidates subspecies was observed at 60 of 101 exists (or is restored) in the Sacramento historical streams and 72 of 123 Below we present a brief summary of Mountains, the likelihood of historical sites. one new mammal (Pen˜ asco least recolonization of historical habitat or The subspecies’ habitat and range chipmunk), and one new fish population expansion from the White have been degraded and limited by (Cumberland arrow darter), that are Mountains is extremely remote. water pollution from surface coal additions to this year’s CNOR. Complete Considering the magnitude and mining and gas exploration activities; information, including references, can imminence of these threats to the removal of riparian vegetation; stream be found in the species assessment subspecies and its habitat, and the channelization; increased siltation forms. You may obtain a copy of these vulnerability of the White Mountains associated with poor mining, logging, forms from the Regional Office having population, we conclude that the least and agricultural practices; and the lead for the species, or from our Web chipmunk is in danger of extinction deforestation of watersheds. The site http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/pub/ throughout all of its known range now magnitude of these threats is most candidateSpecies.jsp. For these species, or in the foreseeable future. severe in the eastern half of the range, we find that we have on file sufficient The remaining population of Pen˜ asco where resource extraction activities are information on biological vulnerability least chipmunk in the White Mountains more common and public ownership is and threats to support a proposal to list is particularly susceptible to extinction sparse. The threat magnitude is lower in as endangered or threatened, but that as a result of small, reduced population the western half of the range where preparation and publication of a sizes and its isolation. Because of the resource extraction activities are less proposal is precluded by higher-priority reduced population size and lack of severe and a larger proportion of the listing actions (i.e., it met our definition contiguous habitat adjacent to the extant range is in public ownership. Since the of a candidate species). We also note White Mountains population, even a species and its life cycle and habitat below that two other species—San small impact on the White Mountains requirements are fairly evenly Francisco Bay-Delta longfin smelt DPS could have a very large impact on the distributed across its range, overall, the and Arapahoe snowfly—were identified status of the species as a whole. As a magnitude of the threats is moderate. as candidates earlier this year as a result result of its restricted range, apparent We also consider these threats to be of separate petition findings published small population size, and fragmented imminent because the threats are in the Federal Register. historical habitat, the one known ongoing and will continue for the remaining extant population in the Mammals foreseeable future. Consequently, we White Mountains is inherently assigned an LPN of 9 to the Cumberland Pen˜ asco least chipmunk (Tamias vulnerable to extinction due to effects of arrow darter. minimus atristriatus)—The Pen˜ asco small, population sizes. These impacts Longfin smelt, San Francisco Bay- least chipmunk is endemic to the White are likely to be seen in the population Delta DPS (Spirinchus thaleichthys)— Mountains, Otero and Lincoln Counties, at some point in the foreseeable future, We previously announced candidate and the Sacramento Mountains, Otero but do not appear to be affecting this status for this DPS, and described the County, New Mexico. The Pen˜ asco least population currently. Therefore, we reasons and data on which the finding chipmunk historically had a broad conclude the threats to this population was based, in a separate warranted-but- distribution throughout the Sacramento are of high magnitude, but not precluded 12-month petition finding Mountains within ponderosa pine imminent. Therefore, we assign an LPN published on April 2, 2012 (77 FR forests. The last verification of of 6 to the subspecies. 19756). persistence of the Sacramento Mountains population of Pen˜ asco least Fish Insects chipmunk was in 1966, and the Cumberland arrow darter (Etheostoma Arapahoe snowfly (Capnia subspecies appears to be extirpated from sagitta sagitta)—The following summary arapahoe)—We previously announced the Sacramento Mountains. The only is based on information in our files. The candidate status for this species, and

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described the reasons and data on some threats are ongoing, the more description in 1937 and the 1980s. which the finding was based, in a significant ones are not. Thus, overall, During this time, there were a total of separate warranted-but-precluded 12- the threats are nonimminent. Recent only 11 known historical records from month petition finding published on phylogenetic research confirmed what 4 Alabama counties. Two of these sites May 10, 2012 (77 FR 27386). has been suspected for decades within have now been inundated by the scientific community that the impoundments. Extensive survey work Listing Priority Changes in Candidates Sonoran desert tortoise is a distinct was conducted in the 1990s to look for We reviewed the LPN for all species. Therefore, we changed the LPN additional populations. As a result of candidate species and are changing the from a 6 to a 5, reflecting that this entity that work, the species was documented numbers for the following species is now a full species and no longer a at 14 sites in 5 counties. discussed below. Some of the changes DPS. Water-quality degradation is the reflect actual changes in either the Sonoyta mud turtle (Kinosternon biggest threat to the continued existence magnitude or immediacy of the threats. sonoriense longifemorale)—The of the Black Warrior waterdog. Most For some species, the LPN change following summary is based on streams that have been surveyed for the reflects efforts to ensure national information contained in our files. No waterdog showed evidence of pollution consistency as well as closer adherence new information was provided in the and many appeared biologically to the 1983 guidelines in assigning these petition we received on May 11, 2004. depauperate. Sources of point and numbers, rather than an actual change The Sonoyta mud turtle occurs in a nonpoint pollution in the Black Warrior in the nature of the threats. spring and pond at Quitobaquito River Basin have been numerous and Reptiles Springs on Organ Pipe Cactus National widespread. Pollution is generated from Monument in Arizona, and in the Rio inadequately treated effluent from Sonoran desert tortoise (Gopherus Sonoyta and Quitovac Spring of Sonora, industrial plants, sanitary landfills, morafkai)—The following summary is Mexico. Loss and degradation of stream sewage treatment plants, poultry based on information contained in our habitat from water diversion and operations, and cattle feedlots. Surface files. Sonoran desert tortoises are most groundwater pumping, along with its mining represents another threat to the closely associated with Sonoran and very limited distribution, are the biological integrity of waterdog habitat. Mojave Desert scrub vegetation types, primary threats to the Sonoyta mud Runoff from old, abandoned coal mines but may also be found in other habitat turtle. The Sonoyta mud turtle may also generates pollution through types within their distribution and be vulnerable to aerial spraying of acidification, increased mineralization, elevation range. They occur most pesticides on nearby agricultural fields. and sediment loading. The North River, commonly on rocky, steep slopes and Sonoyta mud turtles are highly aquatic Locust Fork, and Mulberry Fork, all bajadas in paloverde-mixed cacti and depend on permanent water for streams that this species inhabits, are on associations. Washes and valley bottoms survival. The area of southwest Arizona the Environmental Protection Agency’s may be used in dispersal and, in some and northern Sonora where the Sonoyta list of impaired waters. An additional areas, as all or part of home ranges. Most mud turtle occurs is one of the driest threat to the Black Warrior waterdog is Sonoran desert tortoises in Arizona regions in the Southwest. Due to the creation of large impoundments that occur between 904 to 4,198 feet (275 to continued drought and irrigated have flooded thousands of square 1280 meters) in elevation. The Sonoran agriculture in the region, we expect hectares of its habitat. These desert tortoise is distributed south and surface water in the Rio Sonoyta to impoundments are likely marginal or east of the Colorado River in Arizona in further dwindle in the foreseeable future unsuitable habitat for the salamander. all counties except for Navajo, Apache, but not as imminently as previously Suitable habitat for the Black Warrior Coconino, and Greenlee Counties, south believed since National Park Service waterdog is limited, and available data to the Rio Yaqui in southern Sonora, staff have implemented several actions indicate extant populations are small Mexico. to stabilize the water levels at and their viability is questionable. This Threats known to affect Sonoran Quitobaquito Springs. However, surface situation is pervasive and problematic; desert tortoises include nonnative plant water use will have a significant impact water quality issues are persistent and species invasions and altered fire on the survival of this subspecies. Based regulatory mechanisms are not regimes; urban and agricultural on a change in the timing of the threat ameliorating these ongoing threats. The development, and human population from the reduction of surface water to most current survey information growth; barriers to dispersal and genetic nonimminent (i.e., expected to occur in indicates all populations except one exchange; off-highway vehicles; roads foreseeable future), we are changing the may have decreased below detectable and highways; historical ironwood and LPN for Sonoyta mud turtle from a 3 to limits indicating the threats have mesquite tree harvest in Mexico; a 6. increased in their severity and effects on improper livestock grazing the species. Based on this updated Amphibians (predominantly in Mexico); information, the threats are now of high undocumented human immigration and Black Warrior waterdog (Necturus magnitude overall. Water quality interdiction activities; illegal collection; alabamensis)—The following summary degradation in the Black Warrior Basin predation from feral dogs; human is based on information contained in is ongoing, therefore, the threats are depredation and vandalism; drought; our files. No new information was imminent. We have changed the LPN and climate change. Threats to the provided in the petition we received on from an 8 to a 2 for this species. Sonoran desert tortoise differ May 11, 2004. The Black Warrior geographically in type and scope, and waterdog is a salamander that inhabits Snails are highly synergistic in their effects. streams above the Fall Line within the Page springsnail (Pyrgulopsis However, in their totality, these threats Black Warrior River Basin in Alabama. morrisoni)—The following summary is are high in magnitude because of the There is very little specific locality based on information contained in our large amount of habitat that is likely to information available on the historical files. The Page springsnail is known be affected and the irreversible nature of distribution of the Black Warrior from a complex of springs located the effect of these threats in sensitive waterdog because little attention was within an approximately 0.93-mi (1.5- habitats that are slow to rebound. While given to this species between its km) stretch along the west side of Oak

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Creek around the community of Page where the insect occurred have been in limited spring environments within Springs, and within springs located eliminated or substantially reduced in the Santa Rita Mountains, Pima County, along Spring Creek, tributary to Oak size. It is likely that the species Arizona. In the most recent surveys Creek, Yavapai County, Arizona. occupied a large area of habitat where conducted in 1993, the beetle was only The primary threat to the Page suitable micro-habitat features were documented in Sylvester Spring in springsnail has been modification of present. The widespread loss of aquatic Madera Canyon, within the Coronado habitat by domestic use, agriculture, habitat within the Travertine-Nevares National Forest. Suspected potential ranching, fish hatchery operations, Springs Complex since the water threats to that spring are largely from recreation, and groundwater collection systems were installed habitat modification, and potential withdrawal. Many of the springs where suggests the species has experienced changes in water quality and quantity the species occurs have been subjected major reductions in abundance and due to catastrophic natural events and to some level of modification. However, distribution as springbrook climate change. The threats are of low the immediacy of the threat of environments were eliminated or to moderate magnitude based on our groundwater withdrawal is uncertain, reduced in extent. The adverse effects of current knowledge that the effects of due to conflicting information regarding water diversion activities are most these threats are unlikely to be immediacy. Based on recent survey pronounced during the summer months, permanent as they stem from occasional data, it appears that the Page springsnail when aquatic habitats and the species natural events that do not result in is abundant within natural habitats and that occupy those habitats are most permanent water quality degradation. persists in modified habitats, albeit at restricted, and therefore vulnerable to Additionally, there is a higher reduced densities. Arizona Game and perturbation. In addition, as the human likelihood that the species will persist Fish Department (AGFD) management population in southwestern Nevada in areas that are unaffected by the plans for the Bubbling Ponds and Page grows, the demand for ground water and threats; it is unlikely that all areas of the Springs fish hatcheries include the application for permits to pump spring would be simultaneously be commitments to replace lost habitat and more ground water from the affected. Threats from habitat to monitor remaining populations of underground aquifer that supplies water modification have already occurred and invertebrates such as the Page to desert springs, seeps, and streams in are no longer ongoing, and the threats springsnail. The candidate conservation Death Valley National Park will grow. from climate change are expected to agreement with assurances (CCAA) for This would likely reduce the quantity of occur over many years. Therefore, the the Page springsnail has resulted in the water supplies to desert seeps, springs, threats are nonimminent. Thus, we are implementation of conservation and streams and reduce the habitat changing the LPN for the Stephan’s measures such as restoration and available to the Nevares Spring naucorid riffle beetle from an 8 to an 11. creation of spring ecosystems, including bug. springs on AGFD properties. The Nonnative mosquitofish (Gambusia Flowering Plants implementation of the CCAA has affinis) may prey on and compete with Astragalus anserinus (Goose Creek resulted in measurable benefits to the Nevares Spring naucorid bugs for food milkvetch)—The following summary is species and its habitats. Additionally, resources. Crayfish (Procambarus sp.) based on information in our files and in the National Park Service has expressed are in close proximity to the naucorid the petition received on February 3, an interest in restoring natural bug’s range, and if ever introduced into 2004. The majority (over 80 percent) of springhead integrity to Shea Springs, a the same habitat, could pose an Goose Creek milkvetch sites in Idaho, site historically occupied by Page immediate threat to the species. The Utah, and Nevada occur on Federal springsnail. presence of nonnative plants may also lands managed by the Bureau of Land Accordingly, we find that ongoing reduce water availability or alter Management. The rest of the sites occur implementation of the CCAA continues microhabitat features. Climate change as small populations on private and to substantially reduce the magnitude will likely affect the species because State lands in Utah and on private land and immediacy of threats to, and to increasing temperatures will likely in Idaho and Nevada. Goose Creek appreciably improve the conservation result in greater evaporation rates and milkvetch occurs in a variety of habitats, status of, the species. Therefore, we are increasingly arid conditions, which may but is typically associated with dry, changing the LPN for the Page result in decreased recharge rates into tuffaceous soils (made up of rock springsnail from an 8 to an 11. the groundwater system. In previous consisting of smaller kinds of volcanic detritus) from the Salt Lake Formation. Insects years, magnitude of threats was classified as high and immediacy of The species grows on steep or flat sites, Nevares Spring naucorid bug threats was classified as nonimminent with soil textures ranging from silty to (Ambrysus funebris)—The Nevares for this species, resulting in an LPN of sandy to somewhat gravelly. The Spring naucorid bug is an aquatic insect 5. However, the primary threats to this species tolerates some level of that has a distribution that is limited to species are ongoing, and, thus, to ensure disturbance, based on its occurrence on the Travertine-Nevares Springs Complex consistency in the application of our steep slopes where downhill movement within Death Valley National Park, Inyo listing priority process, we have of soil is common. County, California. Surveys indicate changed the immediacy of threats from The primary threat to Goose Creek that it is a rare species within the nonimminent to imminent, resulting in milkvetch is habitat degradation and aquatic invertebrate community. The an LPN of 2 (high magnitude and modification resulting from an altered Travertine and Nevares Springs areas imminent threats) for the Nevares wildfire regime, fire suppression have eight water collection facilities that Spring naucorid bug. activities, and rehabilitation efforts to provide water for commercial and Stephan’s riffle beetle (Heterelmis recover lands that have burned. Other domestic uses. Information pertaining to stephani)—The following summary is factors that also appear to threaten the historical distribution of the Nevares based on information contained in our Goose Creek milkvetch include Spring naucorid bug prior to the files. No new information was provided livestock use; invasive, nonnative development of the local water in the petition received on May 11, species; and the inadequacy of collection systems is not available. 2004. The Stephan’s riffle beetle is an regulatory mechanisms to address these However, several of the aquatic habitats endemic riffle beetle historically found threats. Climate change effects to Goose

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Creek drainage habitats are possible, but exotic weed and grass species usage in association with right-of-way we are unable to predict the specific introduction as a result of heavy maintenance. The majority of the impacts of this change to Goose Creek recreational use and construction of fire Georgia population is protected due to milkvetch at this time. breaks. Dyer’s woad (Isatis tinctoria), an its location within a conservation We originally assigned the species an invasive, nonnative plant that may easement; however, only 15 to 20 plants LPN of 5 based on high magnitude prevent germination of Siskiyou are estimated to occur at this site. The threats that were capable of destroying mariposa lily seedlings, affects 75 remaining three populations are not entire populations, but that were percent of the known lily habitat on formally protected, but efforts have been nonimminent, or not currently ongoing. Gunsight-Humbug Ridge, the taken to abate threats associated with However, our recent review reveals that southernmost California occurrence. highway right-of-way maintenance at the threats have increased and are now U.S. Forest Service staff and the one Alabama subpopulation. However, imminent, or currently occurring, Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center cite timber growth, following a 2001 timber largely a result of land management competition with dyer’s woad as a harvest that benefitted the plants, now actions taken since fires initially altered significant and chronic threat to the threatens the other Alabama the habitat. We now consider the threats survival of Siskiyou mariposa lily. subpopulation. Last year, this species associated with livestock grazing and The combination of restricted range, was assigned an LPN of 8 based on invasive species to be imminent extremely low numbers (five plants) in imminent threats of moderate throughout a large portion of the one of three disjunct populations, poor magnitude. However this year, we have species’ range. The increased magnitude competitive ability, short seed dispersal evidence that one Alabama and immediacy of threats leaves the distance, slow growth rates, low seed subpopulation is facing new threats species and its small populations more production, apparently poor survival from shading by trees, and additional vulnerable to stochastic events. rates in some years, herbivory, habitat information on the variable Additionally, surveys have not disturbance, and competition from reproductive fitness of the species. identified new populations that would exotic plants threaten the continued Because small population size poses a significantly increase the range or extent existence of this species. However, threat to all known populations of H. of the species. Therefore, we are because efforts are underway to reduce verticillatus, threats associated with changing the LPN for Goose Creek the threat of dyer’s woad where it is land uses affect all populations except milkvetch from a 5 to a 2. found and because there is no evidence for the one in Georgia, and the Calochortus persistens (Siskiyou of a decline in the populations of any reproductive fitness of the Georgia mariposa lily)—The following summary of the three C. persistens occurrences population is apparently diminished, is based on information contained in since the time this species was added to we currently consider threats to be of our files and the petition we received on the list of candidate species, we now high magnitude, and have changed the September 10, 2001. The Siskiyou classify the magnitude of existing LPN to 2 for this species. mariposa lily is a narrow endemic that threats as moderate rather than high. As is restricted to three disjunct ridge tops the threats of competition from exotic Candidate Removals in the Klamath-Siskiyou Range near the plants are not anticipated to overwhelm As summarized below, we have California-Oregon border. The a large portion of the species’ range in evaluated the threats to the following southernmost occurrence of this species the immediate future, the threats are species and considered factors that, is composed of nine separate sites on nonimminent. Therefore, we have individually and in combination, approximately 17.6 hectares (ha) (43.4 changed the LPN from a 5 to an 11 to currently or potentially could pose a acres (ac)) of Klamath National Forest this species. risk to these species and their habitats. and privately owned lands that stretch Helianthus verticillatus (whorled After a review of the best available for 10 kilometers (km) (6 miles (mi)) sunflower)—The following summary is scientific and commercial data, we along the Gunsight-Humbug Ridge, based on information contained in our conclude that listing these species Siskiyou County, California. In 2007, a files. No new information was provided under the Endangered Species Act is not new occurrence was confirmed in the in the petition we received on May 11, warranted because these species are not locality of Cottonwood Peak and Little 2004. The whorled sunflower is found likely to become endangered species Cottonwood Peak, Siskiyou County, in moist, prairie-like openings in within the foreseeable future throughout where several populations are woodlands and along adjacent creeks. all or a significant portion of their distributed over 164 ha (405 ac) on three Despite extensive surveys throughout its ranges. Therefore, we find that individual mountain peaks in the range, only four populations are known proposing a rule to list them is not Klamath National Forest and on private for this species. There is one population warranted, and we no longer consider lands. The northernmost occurrence (consisting of two subpopulations) them to be candidate species for listing. consists of not more than five Siskiyou documented in Cherokee County, We will continue to monitor the status mariposa lily plants that were Alabama; one population in Floyd of these species and to accept additional discovered in 1998, on Bald Mountain, County, Georgia; and one population information and comments concerning west of Ashland, Jackson County, each in Madison and McNairy Counties, this finding. We will reconsider our Oregon. Tennessee. determination in the event that new Major threats include competition and This species appears to have information indicates that the threats to shading by native and nonnative species restricted ecological requirements and is the species are of a considerably greater fostered by suppression of wildfire; dependent upon the maintenance of magnitude or imminence than identified increased fuel loading and subsequent prairie-like openings for its survival. through assessments of information risk of wildfire; fragmentation by roads, Active management of habitat is needed contained in our files, as summarized fire breaks, tree plantations, and radio- to keep competition and shading under here. tower facilities; maintenance and control. Much of its habitat has been construction around radio towers and degraded or destroyed for agricultural, Snails telephone relay stations located on silvicultural, and residential purposes. Elongate mud meadows springsnail Gunsight Peak and Mahogany Point; and Populations near roadsides or (Pyrgulopsis notidicola)—The following soil disturbance, direct damage, and powerlines are threatened by herbicide summary is based on information

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contained in our files. Pyrgulopsis candidate, but most have been effects from the nonnative smooth notidicola, a freshwater snail, is implemented since that time. brome (Bromus inermis), recreation- endemic to Soldier Meadow, which is Only one population was known at based impacts, and inadequate located at the northern extreme of the the time Pyrgulopsis notidicola was regulatory mechanisms. It was also western arm of the Black Rock Desert in designated as a candidate in 2002. Since thought that hybridization with nearby the transition zone between the Basin then, three additional populations have Castilleja spp. may be affecting C. and Range Physiographic Province and been discovered, indicating the species christii. The U.S. Forest Service has the Columbia Plateau Province, is more widely distributed and successfully implemented numerous Humboldt County, Nevada. The species abundant than previously thought. As a conservation actions that have is currently known to occupy four result, the species is less vulnerable to ameliorated most of the previously separate stretches of thermal (between stochastic events than previously known threats and established long- 45 and 32 ° Celsius, 113 and 90 ° thought. term monitoring programs to document Because conservation actions Fahrenheit) aquatic habitat. The first their effectiveness on conservation implemented in Soldier Meadow have actions. There is a long-term stretch is the largest at approximately greatly reduced threats to Pyrgulopsis 600 m (1,968 ft) long and 2 m (6.7 ft) commitment by the Forest Service, notidicola and are likely to stay in place through a 2005 Candidate Conservation wide. The other stretches where for the foreseeable future, and because Agreement and 2012 Memorandum of Pyrgulopsis notidicola occurs are less the population status of the species is Agreement with the Service, to continue than 6 m (19.7 ft) long and 0.5 m (1.6 more secure than originally thought as to implement conservation actions for C. ft) wide. Pyrgulopsis notidicola occurs a result of the discovery of three christii. Furthermore, recent research by only in shallow, flowing water on gravel additional populations, we conclude Boise State University has demonstrated substrate. The species does not occur in that Pyrgulopsis notidicola no longer that hybridization is not a factor deep water (i.e., impoundments) where meets the definition of an endangered or affecting C. christii. Finally, the species’ water velocity is low, gravel substrate is threatened species under section 3 of estimated population is much larger— absent, and sediment levels are high. the ESA. There are no portions of its by as much as two orders of magnitude The primary threat to Pyrgulopsis range where threats remain, therefore, it —than earlier estimates had indicated. notidicola identified when the species is not threatened or endangered in a Therefore, we find that this species is no was elevated to candidate status was significant portion of its range. longer warranted for listing throughout associated with the pattern and amount Therefore, we find that listing of all or a portion of its range. The species of recreational use in Soldier Meadow, Pyrgulopsis notidicola throughout all or no longer meets our definition of a particularly bathing and camping in the a significant portion of its range is no threatened or endangered species, and immediate vicinity of the only spring longer warranted, and we have removed we have removed it from candidate known to contain the species at that it from candidate status. status. time. However, management actions Flowering Plants Narthecium americanum (bog implemented by the Bureau of Land asphodel)—Over the last 20 years Castilleja christii (Christ’s frequent monitoring activities, studies, Management (BLM) have greatly paintbrush)—The following summary is reduced recreation impacts in Soldier and increases in regulatory protections based on information contained in our have improved our understanding and Meadow and thus have appreciably files and the petition we received on reduced the threat of habitat destruction outlook for the status of Narthecium January 2, 2001. Castilleja christii americanum. Based on our current or modification for Pyrgulopsis occurs as a single population within an notidicola. BLM constructed a review of the best available information, approximately 85-ha (220-ac) area of we have determined that the species is designated central campground to subalpine meadow and sagebrush preclude dispersed camping in sensitive less imperiled than previously believed habitats found near the summit of and therefore does not warrant listing as habitats. Established walkways were Mount Harrison, Cassia County, Idaho, threatened or endangered. also constructed to direct foot traffic between 2,621 and 2,804 meters (8,600 The historical range of Narthecium away from sensitive habitats, including to 9,200 feet (ft)). This endemic species americanum included three counties in springs occupied by Pyrgulopsis is considered a hemiparasite that grows the Pinelands Area of New Jersey and notidicola. BLM implemented a in association with native host plants one county each in Delaware and South campground host system during periods found in its subalpine-meadow and Carolina. The Delaware and South of peak recreation use, and the site sagebrush habitats. The species is Carolina occurrences are documented steward interacts with recreationists, subject to annual population by a single sample in each state directing them to designated camping fluctuations likely resulting from a collected in 1895 and 1922, and bathing areas. Educational signs variety of factors, such as biological respectively. The species’ current range that provide information on the need to interactions, anthropogenic includes the same three New Jersey protect sensitive species like disturbances, and environmental effects. counties. The species’ distribution Pyrgulopsis notidicola and their habitats The most recent population estimate, consists of 18 occurrences covering were also installed. In addition, BLM conducted in 2005, used distance approximately 80 ac. The relatively has increased on-site presence of staff, sampling to estimate the overall broad distribution of the species reduces including law enforcement staff, within population size for C. christii of the risk or loss of the species from the area. Another conservation action 1,267,580 plants, with lower and upper stochastic, habitat-modifying events. implemented was construction of a confidence limits of 819,126 and While some historical locations have 1,215-ha (3,000-ac) exclosure fence to 1,716,033 plants, respectively. The been lost on the periphery of the exclude livestock, wild horses, and overall C. christii population is species’ range due to habitat loss, other burros from the majority of the hot currently stable throughout a large new locations have been found. springs, including Pyrgulopsis portion of its range. There are no manmade or natural notidicola habitat. Some of these Castilleja christii was previously threats affecting Narthecium conservation actions began before threatened by destruction, modification, americanum to the level that the species Pyrgulopsis notidicola became a and curtailment of its habitat by the meets the definition of threatened or

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endangered. Approximately 97 percent Petition Findings Service has on file sufficient of N. americanum occurs on public land The ESA provides two mechanisms information on biological vulnerability or on private conservation land. for considering species for listing. One and threat(s) to support issuance of a Therefore, the historical threats of method allows the Secretary, on his proposed rule to list, but for which wetland filling, draining, flooding, and own initiative, to identify species for issuance of the proposed rule is conversion to commercial cranberry listing under the standards of section precluded (61 FR 64481; December 5, bogs that resulted in the decline of the 4(a)(1). We implement this through the 1996). The standard for making a species are no longer occurring. Other candidate program, discussed above. species a candidate through our own manmade threats that we once thought The second method for listing a species initiative is identical to the standard for making a warranted-but-precluded 12- were severely affecting the species such provides a mechanism for the public to month petition finding on a petition to as upland development, water petition us to add a species to the Lists. list, and we add all petitioned species withdrawal, disturbance from The CNOR serves several purposes as for which we have made a warranted- recreational activities such as off-road part of the petition process: (1) In some but-precluded 12-month finding to the vehicles (ORV), and collection are either instances (in particular, for petitions to candidate list. adequately regulated (development and list species that the Service has already water withdrawal) or at most having a Therefore, all candidate species identified as candidates on its own identified through our own initiative de minimus impact (ORV and initiative), it serves as the petition collection) on a small number of already have received the equivalent of finding; (2) for candidate species for substantial 90-day and warranted-but- populations. The regulations controlling which the Service has made a the manmade threats are expected to precluded 12-month findings. warranted-but-precluded petition Nevertheless, we review the status of stay in place, and the de minimus level finding, it serves as a ‘‘resubmitted’’ of impacts are expected to remain stable the newly petitioned candidate species petition finding that the ESA requires and through this CNOR publish specific or further decrease. The natural threats the Service to make each year; and (3) of habitat succession, deer and section 4(b)(3) findings (i.e., substantial it documents the Service’s compliance 90-day and warranted-but-precluded 12- waterfowl browsing, and beaver with the statutory requirement to flooding are also not affecting N. month findings) in response to the monitor the status of species for which petitions to list these candidate species. americanum as we once believed. For listing is warranted-but-precluded to example, new information suggests that We publish these findings as part of the ascertain if they need emergency listing. first CNOR following receipt of the the species is able to persist in closed First, the CNOR serves as a petition canopy conditions and that greater than petition. On October 5, 2011, we finding in some instances. Under received a petition to list the Pen˜ asco 20 percent of the distribution of N. section 4(b)(3)(A), when we receive a americanum is found in cedar forest least chipmunk (see summary above listing petition, we must determine under New Candidates) after we had cover that has remained relatively stable within 90 days, to the maximum extent for the past 61 years. In addition, wetter initiated our assessment of this species practicable, whether the petition for candidate status. As part of this microhabitat conditions created by deer presents substantial information trails may allow N. americanum to notice, we are making the substantial indicating that listing may be warranted 90-day and warranted-but-precluded 12- expand and colonize into forested areas. (a ‘‘90-day finding’’). If we make a Beaver flooding of the species’ habitat month findings for this species. We positive 90-day finding, we must have identified the candidate species for does occur, but only five percent of all promptly commence a status review of which we received petitions by the code N. americanum occurrences are the species under section 4(b)(3)(A); we ‘‘C*’’ in the category column on the left negatively influenced by beaver must then make and publish one of side of Table 1 below. activities. These natural threats are not three possible findings within 12 Second, the CNOR serves as a anticipated to increase. And lastly, months of the receipt of the petition (a ‘‘resubmitted’’ petition finding. Section climate change is not now impacting the ‘‘12-month finding’’): 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the ESA requires that species, and we are unable to accurately (1) The petitioned action is not when we make a warranted-but- predict if or how N. americanum may warranted; precluded finding on a petition, we are be impacted by climate change in the (2) The petitioned action is warranted to treat such a petition as one that is future. It is possible that future climate (in which case we are required to resubmitted on the date of such a conditions in the New Jersey Pinelands promptly publish a proposed regulation finding. Thus, we must make a 12- may cause changes in water table, to implement the petitioned action; month petition finding in compliance precipitation, or evapotranspiration once we publish a proposed rule for a with section 4(b)(3)(B) of the ESA at levels. However, these climate processes species, sections 4(b)(5) and 4(b)(6) of least once a year, until we publish a may increase or decrease or the the ESA govern further procedures proposal to list the species or make a potential effects may be off-setting. regardless of whether we issued the final not-warranted finding. We make Therefore, based on the best available proposal in response to a petition); or these annual findings for petitioned information, we cannot conclude that (3) The petitioned action is warranted candidate species through the CNOR. climate change is a threat to N. but (a) the immediate proposal of a Third, through undertaking the americanum. regulation and final promulgation of a analysis required to complete the In summary, Narthecium americanum regulation implementing the petitioned CNOR, the Service determines if any is secure within its current range. There action is precluded by pending candidate species needs emergency are no manmade or natural threats proposals to determine whether any listing. Section 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the ESA affecting the species to such a degree species is endangered or threatened, and requires us to ‘‘implement a system to that N. americanum warrants listing in (b) expeditious progress is being made monitor effectively the status of all all or a significant portion of its range. to add qualified species to the Lists. We species’’ for which we have made a The species no longer meets our refer to this third option as a warranted-but-precluded 12-month definition of a threatened or endangered ‘‘warranted-but-precluded finding.’’ finding, and to ‘‘make prompt use of the species, and we have removed it from We define ‘‘candidate species’’ to [emergency listing] authority [under candidate status. mean those species for which the section 4(b)(7)] to prevent a significant

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risk to the well being of any such found the petitioned action to be Endangered or Threatened Wildlife and species.’’ The CNOR plays a crucial role warranted but precluded. Included in Plants under the ESA. in the monitoring system that we have this work is our review of the current Preclusion and Expeditious Progress implemented for all candidate species status of, and threats to, the Canada lynx by providing notice that we are actively in New Mexico for which we received To make a finding that a particular seeking information regarding the status a petition to add that State to the listed action is warranted-but-precluded, the of those species. We review all new range. We find that the immediate Service must make two findings: (1) information on candidate species as it issuance of a proposed rule and timely That the immediate proposal and timely becomes available, prepare an annual promulgation of a final rule for each of promulgation of a final regulation is species assessment form that reflects these species has been, for the preceding precluded by pending listing proposals, monitoring results and other new months, and continues to be, precluded and (2) that expeditious progress is information, and identify any species by higher priority listing actions. being made to add qualified species to for which emergency listing may be Additional information that is the basis either of the lists and to remove species appropriate. If we determine that for this finding is found in the species from the lists. 16 U.S.C. emergency listing is appropriate for any assessments and our administrative 1533(b)(3)(B)(iii). candidate we will make prompt use of record for each species. Preclusion the emergency listing authority under Our review included updating the section 4(b)(7). For example, on August A listing proposal is precluded if the status of, and threats to, petitioned Service does not have sufficient 10, 2011, we emergency listed the candidate or listed species for which we Miami blue butterfly (76 FR 49542). We resources available to complete the published findings, under section proposal, because there are competing have been reviewing and will continue 4(b)(3)(B) of the ESA, in the previous to review, at least annually, the status of demands for those resources, and the CNOR. We have incorporated new relative priority of those competing every candidate, whether or not we have information we gathered since the prior received a petition to list it. Thus, the demands is higher. Thus, in any given finding and, as a result of this review, fiscal year (FY), multiple factors dictate CNOR and accompanying species we are making continued warranted- assessment forms constitute the whether it will be possible to undertake but-precluded 12-month findings on the work on a listing proposal regulation or Service’s system for monitoring and petitions for these species. making annual findings on the status of whether promulgation of such a The immediate publication of proposal is precluded by higher priority petitioned species under sections proposed rules to list these species was 4(b)(3)(C)(i) and 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the listing actions—(1) the amount of precluded by our work on higher resources available for completing the ESA. priority listing actions, listed below, A number of court decisions have listing function, (2) the estimated cost of during the period from October 1, 2011, elaborated on the nature and specificity completing the proposed listing, and (3) through September 30, 2012. Below we of information that must be considered the Service’s workload and describe the actions that continue to in making and describing the petition prioritization of the proposed listing in findings in the CNOR. The CNOR preclude the immediate proposal and relation to other actions. final promulgation of a regulation published on November 9, 2009 (74 FR Available Resources 57804), describes these court decisions implementing each of the petitioned in further detail. As with previous actions for which we have made a The resources available for listing CNORs, we continue to incorporate warranted-but-precluded finding, and actions are determined through the information of the nature and specificity we describe the expeditious progress we annual Congressional appropriations required by the courts. For example, we are making to add qualified species to, process. In FY 1998 and for each fiscal include a description of the reasons why and remove species from, the Lists. We year since then, Congress has placed a the listing of every petitioned candidate will continue to monitor the status of all statutory cap on funds that may be species is both warranted and precluded candidate species, including petitioned expended for the Listing Program. This at this time. We make our species, as new information becomes spending cap was designed to prevent determinations of preclusion on a available to determine if a change in the listing function from depleting nationwide basis to ensure that the status is warranted, including the need funds needed for other functions under species most in need of listing will be to emergency-list a species under the ESA (for example, recovery addressed first and also because we section 4(b)(7) of the ESA. functions, such as removing species allocate our listing budget on a In addition to identifying petitioned from the Lists), or for other Service nationwide basis (see below). Regional candidate species in Table 1 below, we programs (see House Report 105–163, priorities can also be discerned from also present brief summaries of why 105th Congress, 1st Session, July 1, Table 1, below, which includes the lead each of these candidates warrants 1997). The funds within the spending region and the LPN for each species. listing. More complete information, cap are available to support work Our preclusion determinations are including references, is found in the involving the following listing actions: further based upon our budget for listing species assessment forms. You may Proposed and final listing rules; 90-day activities for unlisted species only, and obtain a copy of these forms from the and 12-month findings on petitions to we explain the priority system and why Regional Office having the lead for the add species to the Lists or to change the the work we have accomplished does species, or from the Fish and Wildlife status of a species from threatened to preclude action on listing candidate Service’s Internet Web site: http:// endangered; annual ‘‘resubmitted’’ species. ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/pub/ petition findings on prior warranted- In preparing this CNOR, we reviewed candidateSpecies.jsp. As described but-precluded petition findings as the current status of, and threats to, the above, under section 4 of the ESA, we required under section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of 172 candidates for which we have identify and propose species for listing the ESA; critical habitat petition received a petition to list and the 5 based on the factors identified in section findings; proposed and final rules listed species and for which we have 4(a)(1), and section 4 also provides a designating critical habitat; and received a petition to reclassify from mechanism for the public to petition us litigation-related, administrative, and threatened to endangered, where we to add species to the Lists of program-management functions

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(including preparing and allocating subcaps, Congress and the courts have agreements requiring that petition budgets, responding to Congressional in effect determined the amount of findings or listing or critical habitat and public inquiries, and conducting money available for other listing determinations be completed by a public outreach regarding listing and activities nationwide. Therefore, the specific date; (2) section 4 (of the Act) critical habitat). funds in the listing cap—other than listing and critical habitat actions with We cannot spend more for the Listing those within the subcaps needed to absolute statutory deadlines; (3) Program than the amount of funds comply with court orders or court- essential litigation-related, within the spending cap without approved settlement agreements administrative, and listing program- violating the Anti-Deficiency Act (see 31 requiring critical habitat actions for management functions; and (4) section 4 U.S.C. 1341(a)(1)(A)). In addition, since already-listed species, listing actions for listing actions that do not have absolute FY 2002, the Service’s budget has foreign species, and petition findings— statutory deadlines. In FY 2010, the included a critical habitat subcap to set the framework within which we Service received many new petitions ensure that some funds are available for make our determinations of preclusion and a single petition to list 404 species, completing Listing Program actions and expeditious progress. significantly increasing the number of other than critical habitat designations For FY 2012, on December 23, 2011, actions within the second category of (‘‘The critical habitat designation Congress passed a Consolidated our workload—actions that have subcap will ensure that some funding is Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 112–74) absolute statutory deadlines. As a result available to address other listing which provided funding through the of the petitions to list hundreds of activities’’ (House Report No. 107–103, end of the fiscal year. In particular, it species, we currently have over 460 12- 107th Congress, 1st Session. June 19, included a spending cap of $20,902,000 month petition findings yet to be 2001)). In FY 2002 and each year until for the Listing Program. Of that, no more initiated and completed. FY 2006, the Service had to use than $7,472,000 was available for To prioritize within each of the four virtually the entire critical habitat determinations of critical habitat for types of actions, we developed subcap to address court-mandated already listed species. In addition, no guidelines for assigning a listing priority designations of critical habitat, and more than $1,500,000 could be used for number (LPN) for each candidate consequently none of the critical habitat listing actions for foreign species and no species (48 FR 43098; September 21, subcap funds were available for other more than $1,500,000 could be used to 1983). As discussed above, under these listing activities. In some FYs since make 90-day or 12-month findings on guidelines, we assign each candidate an 2006, we have been able to use some of petitions. The Service thus had LPN of 1 to 12, depending on the the critical habitat subcap funds to fund $10,430,000 available to work on magnitude of threats (high or moderate proposed listing determinations for proposed and final listing to low), immediacy of threats (imminent high-priority candidate species. In other determinations for domestic species. In or nonimminent), and taxonomic status FYs, while we were unable to use any addition, if the Service had funding of the species (in order of priority: of the critical habitat subcap funds to available within the critical habitat, monotypic genus (a species that is the fund proposed listing determinations, foreign species, or petition subcaps after sole member of a genus), species, or part we did use some of this money to fund those workloads had been completed, it of a species (subspecies or distinct the critical habitat portion of some could use those funds to work on listing population segment)). The lower the proposed listing determinations so that actions other than critical habitat listing priority number, the higher the the proposed listing determination and designations or foreign species. listing priority (that is, a species with an proposed critical habitat designation Costs of Listing Actions. The work LPN of 1 would have the highest listing could be combined into one rule, involved in preparing various listing priority). A species with a higher LPN thereby being more efficient in our documents can be extensive, and may would generally be precluded from work. In FY 2012, based on the Service’s include, but is not limited to: Gathering listing by species with lower LPNs, workload, we were able to use some of and assessing the best scientific and unless work on a proposed rule for the the critical habitat subcap funds to fund commercial data available and species with the higher LPN can be proposed listing determinations. conducting analyses used as the basis combined with work on a proposed rule For FY 2012 Congress also put in for our decisions; writing and for other high-priority species. place two additional subcaps within the publishing documents; and obtaining, Finally, proposed rules for listing cap: One for listing actions for reviewing, and evaluating public reclassification of threatened species to foreign species and one for petition comments and peer review comments endangered species are lower priority, findings. As with the critical habitat on proposed rules and incorporating because as listed species, they are subcap, if the Service does not need to relevant information into final rules. already afforded the protections of the use all of the funds within the subcap, The number of listing actions that we Act and implementing regulations. we are able to use the remaining funds can undertake in a given year also is However, for efficiency reasons, we may for completing proposed or final listing influenced by the complexity of those choose to work on a proposed rule to determinations. In FY 2012, based on listing actions; that is, more complex reclassify a species to endangered if we the Service’s workload, we were able to actions generally are more costly. The can combine this with work that is use some of the funds within the foreign median cost for preparing and subject to a court ordered or court- species subcap and the petitions subcap publishing a 90-day finding is $39,276; approved deadline. to fund proposed listing determinations. for a 12-month finding, $100,690; for a Since before Congress first established We make our determinations of proposed rule with critical habitat, the spending cap for the Listing Program preclusion on a nationwide basis to $345,000; and for a final listing rule in 1998, the Listing Program workload ensure that the species most in need of with critical habitat, $305,000. has required considerably more listing will be addressed first and also Prioritizing Listing Actions. The resources than the amount of funds because we allocate our listing budget Service’s Listing Program workload is Congress has allowed for the Listing on a nationwide basis. Through the broadly composed of four types of Program. It is therefore important that listing cap, the three subcaps, and the actions, which the Service prioritizes as we be as efficient as possible in our amount of funds needed to complete follows: (1) Compliance with court listing process. Therefore, as we court-mandated actions within those orders and court-approved settlement implement our listing work plan and

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work on proposed rules for the highest other plaintiff in the case; that budget of the Endangered Species priority species in the next several settlement agreement requires the Program. During FY 2012, we completed years, we are preparing multi-species Service to complete additional actions delisting rules for two species.) As proposals when appropriate, and these in specific fiscal years — including 12- discussed below, given the limited may include species with lower priority month petition findings for 11 species, resources available for listing, we find if they overlap geographically or have 90-day petition findings for 477 species, that we are making expeditious progress the same threats as one of the highest- and proposed listing determinations or in FY 2012 in the Listing Program. priority species. In addition, we take not-warranted findings for 39 species. We provide below tables cataloguing into consideration the availability of These settlement agreements have led the work of the Service’s Listing staff resources when we determine to a number of results that affect our Program in FY 2012. This work includes which high-priority species will receive preclusion analysis. First, the Service all three of the steps necessary for funding to minimize the amount of time has been, and will continue to be, adding species to the Lists: (1) and resources required to complete each limited in the extent to which it can Identifying species that warrant listing, listing action. undertake additional actions within the (2) undertaking the evaluation of the Listing Program Workload. Each FY Listing Program through FY 2017 best available scientific information we determine, based on the amount of beyond what is required by the MDL about those species and the threats they funding Congress has made available Settlement Agreements. Second, face, and preparing proposed and final within the Listing Program spending because the settlement is court- listing rules, and (3) adding species to approved, two broad categories of cap, specifically which actions we will the Lists by publishing proposed and actions now fall within the Service’s have the resources to work on in that final listing rules that include a highest priority (compliance with a FY. We then prepare Allocation Tables summary of the data on which the rule court order): (1) the Service’s entire that identify the actions that we are is based and show the relationship of prioritized workload for FY 2012, as funding for that FY, and how much we that data to the rule. After taking into reflected in its Allocation Table, and (2) estimate it will cost to complete each consideration the limited resources completion, before the end of FY 2016, action; these Allocation Tables are part available for listing, the competing of proposed listings or not-warranted of our record for this notice and the demands for those funds, and the findings for most of the candidate listing program. Our Allocation Table completed work catalogued in the tables species identified in this CNOR (in below, we find that we are making for FY 2012, which incorporated the particular, for those candidate species Service’s approach to prioritizing its expeditious progress to add qualified that were included in the 2010 CNOR). species to the Lists in FY 2012. workload, was adopted as part of a Therefore, each year, one of the First, we are making expeditious settlement agreement in a case before Service’s highest priorities is to make progress in the third and final step: the U.S. District Court for the District of steady progress towards completing by listing qualified species. In FY 2012, we Columbia (Endangered Species Act the end of 2017 proposed and final resolved the status of 44 species that we Section 4 Deadline Litigation, No.10– lisiting determinations for the 2010 determined, or had previously 377 (EGS), MDL Docket No. 2165 (‘‘MDL candidate species—based on its LPN determined, qualified for listing. Litigation’’), Document 31–1 (D. D.C. prioritization system, preparing multi- Moreover, for 43 of those 44 species, the May 10, 2011) (‘‘MDL Settlement species actions when appropriate, and resolution was to add them to the Lists, Agreement’’)). The requirements of taking into consideration the availability paragraphs 1 through 7 of that of staff resources. most with concurrent designations of settlement agreement, combined with Based on these prioritization factors, critical habitat. We also proposed to list the work plan attached to the agreement we continue to find that proposals to list an additional 85 qualified species, most as Exhibit B, reflected the Service’s the petitioned candidate species with concurrent critical habitat Allocation Tables for FY 2011 and FY included in Table 1 are all precluded by proposals. 2012. In addition, paragraphs 2 through higher-priority listing actions including Second, we are making expeditious 7 of the agreement require the Service those with court-ordered and court- progress in the second step: working to take numerous other actions through approved settlement agreements and towards adding qualified species to the FY 2017—in particular, complete either listing actions with absolute statutory Lists. In FY 2012, we worked on a proposed listing rule or a not- deadlines. developing proposed listing rules for 39 warranted finding for all 251 species species (most of them with concurrent designated as ‘‘candidates’’ in the 2010 Expeditious Progress critical habitat proposals). Although we candidate notice of review (‘‘CNOR’’) As explained above, a determination have not yet completed those actions, before the end of FY 2016, and complete that listing is warranted but precluded we are making expeditious progress final listing determinations within one must also demonstrate that expeditious towards doing so. year of proposing to list any of those progress is being made to add and Third, we are making expeditious species. Paragraph 10 of that settlement remove qualified species to and from progress in the first step towards adding agreement sets forth the Service’s the Lists. As with our ‘‘precluded’’ qualified species to the Lists: identifying conclusion that ‘‘fulfilling the finding, the evaluation of whether additional species that qualify for commitments set forth in this progress in adding qualified species to listing. In FY 2012, we completed 90- Agreement, along with other the Lists has been expeditious is a day petition findings for 76 species and commitments required by court orders function of the resources available for 12-month petition findings for 53 or court-approved settlement listing and the competing demands for species. Of those 51 species, we agreements already in existence at the those funds. (Although we do not determined that listing 9 of the species signing of this Settlement Agreement discuss it in detail here, we are also was warranted but precluded. In FY (listed in Exhibit A), will require making expeditious progress in 2012, we also worked on evaluating the substantially all of the resources in the removing species from the list under the best available scientific information Listing Program.’’ As part of the same Recovery program in light of the towards preparing 90-day findings for lawsuit, the court also approved a resource available for delisting, which is an additional 3 species and 12-month separate settlement agreement with the funded by a separate line item in the findings for 1 additional species.

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In addition to the work the Service status of candidate species outlined in of 2 or 3. Therefore, both by entering has completed towards adding qualified this Agreement constitute expeditious into the first settlement agreement and species to the Lists, as we described progress in adding qualified species to by completing the listing actions above, on May 10, 2011, the Service the lists of threatened and endangered required by both settlement agreements, filed in the MDL Litigation a settlement species.’’ The Service also filed a second the Service is making expeditious agreement that incorporated the settlement agreement that required even progress to add qualified species to the Service’s work plan for FY 2012; the more work in FY 2012. The Service had lists. As provided for in the settlement court approved that settlement already begun in FY 2011 to implement agreements and the work plan agreement on September 9, 2011. that work required by the work plan, incorporated into the first agreement, Paragraph 10 of that settlement and many of these initial actions in our the Service’s progress in FY 2012 agreement provides, ‘‘The Parties agree work plan include work on proposed included completing and publishing the that the timetables for resolving the rules for candidate species with an LPN following determinations:

FY 2012 COMPLETED LISTING ACTIONS 1

Publication date Title Actions FR Pages

10/4/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Lake Sammamish Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 61298–61307 Kokanee Population of Oncorhynchus nerka as an Endangered ing, Not warranted. or Threatened Distinct Population Segment. 10/4/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Calopogon oklahomensis as Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 61307–61321 Threatened or Endangered. ing, Not warranted. 10/4/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Amargosa River Popu- Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 61321–61330 lation of the Mojave Fringe-toed Lizard as an Endangered or ing, Not warranted. Threatened Distinct Population Segment. 10/4/2011 ..... Endangered Status for the Alabama Pearlshell, Round Ebonyshell, Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 76 FR 61482–61529 Southern Sandshell, Southern Kidneyshell, and Choctaw Bean, and Threatened Status for the Tapered Pigtoe, Narrow Pigtoe, and Fuzzy Pigtoe; with Critical Habitat. 10/4/2011 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List 10 Subspecies of Great Basin Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 76 FR 61532–61554 Butterflies as Threatened or Endangered with Critical Habitat. Substantial and Not substantial. 10/5/2011 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List 29 Mollusk Species as Threat- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 76 FR 61826–61853 ened or Endangered With Critical Habitat. Substantial and Not substantial. 10/5/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Cactus Ferruginous Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 61856–61894 Pygmy-Owl as Threatened or Endangered with Critical Habitat. ing, Not warranted. 10/5/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Northern Leopard Frog in Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 61896–61931 the Western United States as Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 10/6/2011 ..... Endangered Status for the Ozark Hellbender Salamander ...... Final Listing Endangered ...... 76 FR 61956–61978 10/6/2011 ..... Red-Crowned Parrot ...... Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62016–62034 ing, Warranted but precluded. 10/6/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Texas Fatmucket, Golden Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62166–62212 Orb, Smooth Pimpleback, Texas Pimpleback, and Texas ing, Warranted but precluded. Fawnsfoot as Threatened or Endangered. 10/6/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Mohave Ground Squirrel Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62214–62258 as Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 10/6/2011 ..... Partial 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List 404 Species in the Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 76 FR 62260–62280 Southeastern United States as Threatened or Endangered With Not substantial. Critical Habitat. 10/7/2011 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Black-footed Albatross as Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62504–62565 Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 10/11/2011 ... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Amoreuxia gonzalezii, As- Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62722–62740 tragalus hypoxylus, and Erigeron piscaticus as Endangered or ing, Not warranted. Threatened. 10/11/2011 ... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Tehachapi Slender Sala- Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 62900–62926 mander as Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 10/11/2011 ... Endangered Status for the Altamaha Spinymussel and Designation Final Listing Endangered ...... 76 FR 62928–62960 of Critical Habitat. 10/11/2011 ... 12-Month Finding for a Petition to List the California Golden Trout Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 63094–63115 as Endangered. ing, Not warranted. 10/12/2011 ... 12-Month Petition Finding, Proposed Listing of Coquı´ Llanero as Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 63420–63442 Endangered, and Designation of Critical Habitat for Coquı´ Llanero. ing, Warranted; Proposed List- ing Endangered. 10/12/2011 ... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Northern Leatherside Chub Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 63444–63478 as Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 10/13/2011 ... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List a Distinct Population Seg- Notice of 12-month petition find- 76 FR 63720–63762 ment of the Red Tree Vole as Endangered or Threatened. ing, Warranted but precluded. 12/19/2011 ... 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Western Glacier Stonefly Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 76 FR 78601–78609 as Endangered With Critical Habitat. Substantial. 1/3/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Sierra Nevada Red Fox as En- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 45–52 dangered or Threatened. Substantial. 1/12/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the Humboldt Marten as En- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 1900–1908 dangered or Threatened. Substantial. 1/24/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the ‘I’iwi as Endangered or Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 3423–3432 Threatened. Substantial.

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FY 2012 COMPLETED LISTING ACTIONS 1—Continued

Publication date Title Actions FR Pages

2/1/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the San Bernardino Flying Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 4973–4980 Squirrel as Endangered or Threatened With Critical Habitat. Substantial. 2/14/2012 ..... Determination of Endangered Status for the Rayed Bean and Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 8632–8665 Snuffbox Mussels Throughout Their Ranges. 2/17/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Thermophilic Ostracod as Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 9618–9619 Endangered or Threatened. Not substantial. 3/13/2012 ..... Determination of Endangered Status for the Sheepnose and Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 14914–14949 Spectaclecase Mussels Throughout Their Range. 4/2/2012 ...... 12-month Finding on a Petition to List the San Francisco Bay-Delta Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 19756—19797 Population of the Longfin Smelt as Endangered or Threatened. ing, Warranted but precluded. 4/6/2012 ...... Listing of the Miami Blue Butterfly as Endangered Throughout Its Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 20948–20986 Range; Listing of the Cassius Blue, Ceraunus Blue, and Nickerbean Blue Butterflies as Threatened Due to Similarity of Appearance to the Miami Blue Butterfly in Coastal South and Central Florida. 4/12/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Either the Eastern Population Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 21920–21936 or the Southern Rocky Mountain Population of the Boreal Toad Substantial. as an Endangered or Threatened Distinct Population Segment. 4/17/2012 ..... Determination of Endangered Status for Three Forks Springsnail Final Listing Endangered and 77 FR 23060–23092 and Threatened Status for San Bernardino Springsnail Through- Threatened. out Their Ranges and Designation of Critical Habitat for Both Species. 4/26/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Aliciella formosa (Aztec gilia) as Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 24908–24915 Endangered or Threatened with Critical Habitat. Not substantial. 5/1/2012 ...... 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List the Sonoran Desert Area Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 25792–25828 Bald Eagle as Threatened or Endangered. ing, Not warranted. 5/10/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Arapahoe Snowfly as Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 27386—27403 Threatened or Endangered. ing, Warranted but Precluded. 5/10/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Eastern Diamondback Rat- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 27403—27411 tlesnake as Threatened. Substantial. 5/15/2012 ..... Threatened Status for Eriogonum codium (Umtanum Desert Buck- Proposed Listing Threatened ...... 77 FR 28704–28740 wheat) and Physaria douglasii subsp. tuplashensis (White Bluffs Bladderpod) and Designation of Critical Habitat. 6/5/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Southern White-Tailed Ptar- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 33143–33155 migan and the Mt. Rainier White-Tailed Ptarmigan as Threatened Substantial. with Critical Habitat. 6/11/2012 ..... Listing 38 Species on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui as Endangered and Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 34464–34775 Designating Critical Habitat on Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Kahoolawe for 135 Species. 6/19/2012 ..... Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule to List Dunes Sagebrush Lizard ... Proposed Listing Withdrawal ...... 77 FR 36871–36899 6/21/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Black-capped Petrel as En- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 37367–37373 dangered or Threatened. Substantial. 7/5/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Maytenus cymosa as Endan- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 39666–39670 gered or Threatened. Not substantial. 7/5/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List a Distinct Population Segment Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 39670–39674 of the American Black Bear in Nevada as Endangered or Threat- Not substantial. ened. 7/12/2012 ..... Determination of Endangered Status for the Chupadera Springsnail Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 41088–41106 and Designation of Critical Habitat. 7/18/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Six Sand Dune Beetles as Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 42238–42251 Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 7/24/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Sonoran talussnail as En- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 43218–43222 dangered or Threatened. Substantial. 7/26/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Gila Mayfly as Endangered Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 43799–43803 Substantial. 7/26/2012 ..... Endangered Status for the Diamond Darter and Designation of Crit- Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 43905–43939 ical Habitat. 8/7/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on Petitions to List the Two Spring Mountains Dark Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 47003–47011 Blue Butterflies and Morand’s Checkerspot Butterfly as Endan- Not-substantial and Substantial. gered or Threatened. 8/8/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Graptopetalum bartramii (Bar- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 47352–47356 tram Stonecrop) and Pectis imberbis (Beardless Chinch Weed) Substantial. as Endangered or Threatened and Designate Critical Habitat. 8/9/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Desert Massasauga as Endan- Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 47583–47587 gered or Threatened and to Designate Critical Habitat. Substantial. 8/15/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Bicknell’s Thrush (Catharus Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 48934–48947 bicknelli) as Endangered or Threatened. Substantial. 8/16/2012 ..... Endangered Status for Six West Texas Aquatic Invertebrate Spe- Proposed Listing and Critical 77 FR 49601–49651 cies and Designation of Critical Habitat. Habitat Endangered. 8/17/2012 ..... Determination of Status for the Gierisch Mallow and Designation of Proposed Listing and Critical 77 FR 49893–49919 Critical Habitat. Habitat Endangered.

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FY 2012 COMPLETED LISTING ACTIONS 1—Continued

Publication date Title Actions FR Pages

8/22/2012 ..... Endangered Status for Four Central Texas Salamanders and Des- Proposed Listing and Critical 77 FR 50767–50854 ignation of Critical Habitat. Habitat Endangered. 8/28/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Bay Skipper as Endan- Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 51958–51964 gered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 8/29/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List Mimulus gemmiparus (Rocky Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 52293–52300 Mountain monkeyflower) as Endangered or Threatened and to Substantial. Designate Critical Habitat. 8/29/2012 ..... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Prince of Wales Flying Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 52301–52308 Squirrel as Threatened or Endangered. Not substantial. 8/30/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Platte River Caddisfly as Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 52650–52673 Endangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 9/4/2012 ...... 12-Month Finding on a Petition To List Four Subspecies of Great Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 54293–54329 Basin Butterflies as Endangered or Threatened Species. ing, Not warranted. 9/4/2012 ...... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List the Mardon Skipper as Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 54331–54352 Threatened or Endangered. ing, Not warranted. 9/5/2012 ...... 90-Day Finding on a Petition to List the Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout Notice of 90-day Petition Finding, 77 FR 54548–54553 as an Endangered or Threatened Species. Substantial. 9/5/2012 ...... Determination of Endangered Status for Arctostaphylos franciscana Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 54434–54450 (Franciscan manzanita) Throughout Its Range. 9/11/2012 ..... Determination of Status for Texas Golden Gladecress and Neches Proposed Listing Endangered, 77 FR 55967–56026 River Rose-mallow and Designation of Critical Habitat. Threatened. 9/12/2012 ..... Proposed Endangered Status for the Jemez Mountains Salamander Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 56481–56513 and Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat. 9/18/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List 14 Aquatic Mollusks as En- Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 57647–57862 dangered or Threatened. ing, Not warranted. 9/18/2012 ..... Endangered Status for 23 Species on Oahu and Designation of Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 57921–57948 Critical Habitat for 124 Species. 9/27/2012 ..... Proposed Listing of the Mount Charleston Blue Butterfly as Endan- Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 59517–59540 gered and Proposed Listing of Five Blue Butterflies as Threat- ened Due to Similarity of Appearance. 9/27/2012 ..... Endangered Status for Grotto Sculpin and Designation of Critical Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 59487–59515 Habitat. 9/27/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on a Petition to List Spring Mountains Acastus Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 59357–59371 Checkerspot Butterfly as an Endangered or Threatened Species. ing, Not warranted. 10/2/2012 ..... Proposed Threatened Status for Coral Pink Sand Dunes Tiger Bee- Proposed Listing Threatened ...... 77 FR 60207–60235 tle and Designation of Critical Habitat. 10/2/2012 ..... 12-Month Petition Finding, Listing of the Spring Pygmy Sunfish as Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 60179–60206 Threatened, and Designation of Critical Habitat. ing, Warranted Proposed List- ing Threatened. 10/3/2012 ..... 12-month Finding for the Lemmon Fleabane; Endangered Status for Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 60509–60579 the Acun˜a Cactus and the Fickeisen Plains Cactus and Designa- ing, Not warranted Proposed tion of Critical Habitat. Listing Endangered. 10/4/2012 ..... Proposed Endangered Species Status for the Florida Bonneted Bat Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 60749–60776 10/4/2012 ..... Determination of Endangered Species Status for Coquı´ Llanero Final Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 60777–60802 Throughout Its Range and Designation of Critical Habitat. 10/4/2012 ..... Endangered Species Status for the Fluted Kidneyshell and Slabside Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 60803–60882 Pearlymussel and Designation of Critical Habitat. 10/9/2012 ..... 12-Month Finding on Petitions to List the Mexican Gray Wolf as an Notice of 12-month petition find- 77 FR 61375–61377 Endangered Subspecies or Distinct Population Segment with Crit- ing, Not warranted. ical Habitat. 10/10/2012 ... Determination of Endangered Species Status for the Alabama Final Listing Endangered and 77 FR 61663–61719 Pearlshell, Round Ebonyshell, Southern Kidneyshell, and Choc- Threatened. taw Bean, and Threatened Species Status for the Tapered Pigtoe, Narrow Pigtoe, Southern Sandshell, and Fuzzy Pigtoe, and Designation of Critical Habitat. 10/11/2012 ... Endangered Species Status for Cape Sable Thoroughwort, Florida Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 61835–61894 Semaphore Cactus, and Aboriginal Prickly-apple, and Designa- tion of Critical Habitat for Cape Sable Thoroughwort. 10/11/2012 ... Listing Taylor’s Checkerspot Butterfly and Streaked Horned Lark Proposed Listing Endangered and 77 FR 61937–62058 and Designation of Critical Habitat. Threatened. 10/16/2012 ... Proposed Endangered Status for the Neosho Mucket, Threatened Proposed Listing Endangered and 77 FR 63439–63536 Status for the Rabbitsfoot, and Designation of Critical Habitat for Threatened. Both Species. 10/17/2012 ... Listing 15 Species on Hawaii Island as Endangered and Desig- Proposed Listing Endangered ...... 77 FR 63927–64018 nating Critical Habitat for 3 Species. 1 While some of these actions were published in FY 13, they were all completed and submitted to the Federal Register in FY 12.

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Our expeditious progress also been working on the second step, settlement agreement. Actions in the included work on listing actions that we necessary for adding species to the Lists. lower section of the table are being funded in previous fiscal years and in These actions are listed below. Actions conducted to meet statutory timelines, FY 2012 but have not yet been in the top section of the table are being that is, timelines required under the completed to date. For these species, we conducted under a deadline set by a Act. have completed the first step, and have court through a court order or

ACTIONS FUNDED IN PREVIOUS FYS AND IN FY 2012 BUT NOT YET COMPLETED

Species Action

Actions Subject to Court Order/Settlement Agreement

Red knot (LPN = 3) ...... Proposed listing. Gunnison sage-grouse (LPN = 2) ...... Proposed listing. Lesser prairie chicken (LPN = 2) ...... Proposed listing. Arizona gartersnakes (northern Mexican gartersnake (LPN = 3) & narrowheaded gartersnake) ...... Proposed listing. Zuni bluehead sucker ...... Proposed listing. 21 Big Island (HI) species 5 (includes 8 candidate species—6 plants & 2 animals; 4 with LPN = 2, 1 with LPN = 3, Proposed listing. 1 with LPN = 4, 2 with LPN = 8). 9 Puget trough species (9 subspecies of pocket gopher (Thomomys mazama ssp.) (LPN = 3) ...... Proposed listing. Dakota skipper (LPN = 8) and Poweshiek skipperling (LPN = 2) ...... Proposed listing. Vandenberg monkeyflower ...... Proposed listing. 3 Sierra amphibians (Yosemite toad, mountain yellow-legged frog—Sierra Nevada DPSs) ...... Proposed listing.

Actions With Statutory Deadlines

Ashy storm-petrel ...... 12-month petition finding. Alexander Archipelago wolf ...... 90-day petition finding. Sphinx date palm (Phoenix dactylifera cv. Sphinx) ...... 90-day petition finding Black-backed woodpecker ...... 90-day petition finding.

We also funded work on resubmitted findings for the candidate species that together. Given our limited budget for petitions findings for 172 candidate we are removing from candidate status, implementing section 4 of the ESA, species (species petitioned prior to the which are being published as part of these efforts also contribute towards last CNOR). In our resubmitted petition this CNOR (see Candidate Removals). finding that we are making expeditious finding for the Columbia Basin Because the majority of these petitioned progress to add qualified species to the population of the greater sage-grouse in species were already candidate species Lists. this notice, although we completed a prior to our receipt of a petition to list Although we have not been able to new analysis of the threats facing the them, we had already assessed their resolve the listing status of many of the status using funds from our Candidate species, we did not include new candidates, several programs in the Conservation Program, so we continue information, as the significance of the Service contribute to the conservation of to monitor the status of these species Columbia Basin DPS to the greater sage- these species. In particular, the through our Candidate Conservation grouse will require further review and Candidate Conservation Program, which we will update our finding when we Program. The cost of updating the species assessment forms and is separately budgeted, focuses on resolve the status of the greater sage- providing technical expertise for grouse at a later date (see 75 FR 13910; publishing the joint publication of the CNOR and resubmitted petition findings developing conservation strategies and March 23, 2010). We also did not is shared between the Listing Program agreements to guide voluntary on-the- include an updated assessment form as and the Candidate Conservation ground conservation work for candidate part of our resubmitted petition findings Program. and other at-risk species. The main goal for the 29 candidate species for which During FY 2012, we also funded work of this program is to address the threats we are preparing proposed listing on resubmitted petition findings for facing candidate species. Through this determinations. However, for both the uplisting two listed species (Delta smelt program, we work with our partners Columbia Basin DPS to the greater sage- and Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette (other Federal agencies, State agencies, grouse and for the other resubmitted cactus)), for which we had previously Tribes, local governments, private petition findings, in the course of received a petition and made a landowners, and private conservation preparing proposed listing warranted-but-precluded finding. organizations) to address the threats to determinations, we continue to monitor Another way that we have been candidate species and other species at- new information about their status so expeditious in making progress to add risk. We are currently working with our that we can make prompt use of our qualified species to the Lists is that we partners to implement voluntary authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the have endeavored to make our listing conservation agreements for more than case of an emergency posing a actions as efficient and timely as 142 species covering 5.5 million ac of significant risk to the well-being of any possible, given the requirements of the habitat. In some instances, the sustained of these candidate species; see relevant law and regulations, and implementation of strategically summaries below regarding publication constraints relating to workload and designed conservation efforts of these determinations (these species personnel. We are continually culminates in making listing will remain on the candidate list until considering ways to streamline unnecessary for species that are a proposed listing rule is published). We processes or achieve economies of scale, candidates for listing or for which also funded revised 12-month petition such as by batching related actions listing has been proposed.

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Findings for Petitioned Candidate this subspecies and the DPS include received in response to our notice Species habitat loss, predation by introduced published on June 30, 2004, when we Below are updated summaries for species, and its small population size announced our 90-day petition finding petitioned candidates for which we and distribution, which make the taxon and initiation of a status review (69 FR published findings, under section extremely vulnerable to extinction due 39395). We received the petition on 4(b)(3)(B). We are making continued to typhoons and similar natural August 30, 2000. The New England cottontail (NEC) is warranted-but-precluded 12-month catastrophes. Thus, the threats are high a medium to large-sized cottontail rabbit findings on the petitions for these in magnitude. The Pacific sheath-tailed that may reach 1,000 grams (g) in species (for our revised 12-month bat may also be susceptible to disturbance to roosting caves. The LPN weight, and is one of two species within petition findings for species that we are for E. s. semicaudata is 3 because the the genus Sylvilagus occurring in New removing from candidate status, see magnitude of the threats is high; the England. The NEC is considered a summaries above under Candidate threats are ongoing, and therefore, habitat specialist, because it is Removals). imminent; and the taxon is a distinct dependent upon early-successional Mammals population segment of a subspecies. habitats typically described as thickets. Pacific sheath-tailed bat (Emballonura The species is the only endemic Pacific sheath-tailed bat, American semicaudata rotensis), Guam and the cottontail in New England. Historically, Samoa DPS (Emballonura semicaudata Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana the NEC occurred in seven States and semicaudata) — The following Islands (CNMI)—The following ranged from southeastern New York summary is based on information summary is based on information (east of the Hudson River) north through contained in our files. No new contained in our files. No new the Champlain Valley, southern information was provided in the information was provided in the Vermont, the southern half of New petition we received on May 11, 2004. petition we received on May 11, 2004. Hampshire, and southern Maine and This small bat is a member of the This small bat is a member of the south throughout Massachusetts, Emballonuridae, an Old World bat Emballonuridae, an Old World bat Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The family that has an extensive family that has an extensive current range of the NEC has declined distribution, primarily in the tropics. distribution, primarily in the tropics. substantially, and occurrences have The Pacific sheath-tailed bat was once The Pacific sheath-tailed bat was once become increasingly separated. The common and widespread in Polynesia common and widespread in Polynesia species’ distribution is fragmented into and Micronesia, and it is the only and Micronesia, and it is the only five apparently isolated insectivorous bat recorded from a large insectivorous bat recorded from a large metapopulations. The area occupied by part of this area. The species as a whole part of this area. Emballonura s. rotensis the cottontail has contracted from (E. semicaudata) occurred on several of is historically known from the Mariana approximately 90,000 square kilometers the Caroline Islands (Palau, Chuuk, and Islands and formerly occurred on Guam (km2) to 12,180 km2. Surveys indicate Pohnpei), Samoa (Independent and and in the CNMI on Rota, Aguiguan, that the long-term decline in NEC American), the Mariana Islands (Guam Tinian (known from prehistoric records continues. For example, surveys for the and the Commonwealth of the Northern only), Saipan, and possibly Anatahan species in 2009 documented the Mariana Islands (CNMI)), Tonga, Fiji, and Maug. Currently, E. s. rotensis presence of NEC in 7 of the 23 New and Vanuatu. While populations appear appears to be extirpated from all but one Hampshire locations that were known to to be healthy in some locations, mainly island in the Mariana archipelago. The be occupied in 2002 and 2003. in the Caroline Islands, they have single remaining population of this Similarly, surveys in Maine found the declined substantially in other areas, subspecies occurs on Aguiguan, CNMI. species no longer present in 9 of the 19 including Independent and American Threats to this subspecies have not towns identified in an extensive survey Samoa, the Mariana Islands, Fiji, and changed over the past year. The primary that spanned the years 2000 to 2004. possibly Tonga. Scientists recognize threats to the subspecies are ongoing Similar surveys were conducted during four subspecies: Emballonura s. habitat loss and degradation as a result the winter of 2010–2011 in Rhode rotensis, endemic to the Mariana Islands of feral goat (Capra hircus) activity on Island. Rangewide, it is estimated that (Guam and the CNMI); E. s. sulcata, the island of Aguiguan and the taxon’s less than one-third of the occupied sites occurring in Chuuk and Pohnpei; E. s. small population size and limited occur on lands in conservation status palauensis, found in Palau; and E. s. distribution. Predation by nonnative and fewer than 10 percent are being semicaudata, occurring in American species and human disturbance are also managed for early-successional forest and Independent Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, potential threats to the subspecies. The species. and Vanuatu. The candidate assessment subspecies is believed near the point The primary threat to the NEC is loss form addresses the distinct population where stochastic events, such as of habitat through succession and segment (DPS) of E. s. semicaudata that typhoons, are increasingly likely to alteration. Isolation of occupied patches occurs in American Samoa. affect its continued survival. The by areas of unsuitable habitat and high Emballonura s. semicaudata disappearance of the remaining predation rates are resulting in local historically occurred in American and population on Aguiguan would result in extirpation of NECs from small patches. Independent Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and the extinction of the subspecies. Thus, The range of the NEC has contracted by Vanuatu. It is extant in Fiji and Tonga, the threats are high in magnitude. The 75 percent or more since 1960, and but may be extirpated from Vanuatu and LPN for E. s. rotensis remains at 3 current land uses in the region indicate Independent Samoa. There is some because the magnitude of the threats is that the rate of change, about 2 percent concern that it is also extirpated from high; the threats are ongoing, and range loss per year, will continue. American Samoa, the location of this therefore, imminent; and the taxon is a Additional threats include competition DPS, where surveys are currently subspecies. for food and habitat with introduced ongoing to ascertain its status. The New England cottontail (Sylvilagus eastern cottontails and large numbers of factors that led to the decline of this transitionalis) — The following native white-tailed deer, inadequate subspecies and the DPS are poorly summary is based on information regulatory mechanisms to protect understood; however, current threats to contained in our files and information habitat, and mortality from predation.

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The magnitude of the threats continues Oregon and southern Sierra Nevada are listing rule, we are continuing to to be high, because they occur separated by several times greater than monitor new information about this rangewide and have a negative effect on the species’ maximum dispersal species’ status so that we can make the population size and survival of the distance. The extant fisher populations prompt use of our authority under species. Although conservation are either small (southern Sierra Nevada Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an measures that address the threats to the and southern Oregon Cascades) and emergency posing a significant risk to species are being developed, they are isolated from one another or both. the species. not yet in place, and there is not yet any Major threats that fragment or remove Canada lynx, within the State of New indication that they are having an effect key elements of fisher habitat include Mexico (Lynx canadensis)—In our on the magnitude of the species. The various forest vegetation management finding of December 17, 2009 (74 FR threats are imminent because they are practices such as timber harvest and 66937), we determined that adding the ongoing. Thus, we retained an LPN of 2 fuels reduction treatments. Other lynx in New Mexico to the listing of the for this species. potential major threats in portions of the lynx DPS was warranted, because the Fisher, West Coast DPS (Martes range include: large stand-replacing lynx is now present in the State as a pennanti)—The following summary is wildfires, changes in forest composition result of the Colorado reintroduction based on information in our files and in and structure related to the effects of effort, and we assigned an LPN of 12 to the Service’s initial warranted-but- climate change, forest and fuels amending the listing of lynx to include precluded finding published in the management, and urban and rural New Mexico. We reconfirm that Federal Register on April 8, 2004 (69 FR development. Threats to fishers that assigning an LPN of 12 is appropriate 18770). The fisher is a carnivore in the lead to direct mortality and injury based on nonimminent threats of a low family Mustelidae and is the largest include: collisions with vehicles; magnitude. The threats to the lynx in member of the genus Martes. predation; rodenticides; and viral borne New Mexico from human-caused Historically, the West Coast population diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, and mortality are low in magnitude, because of the fisher extended south from British canine distemper virus. Existing they do not occur at a level that creates Columbia into western Washington and regulatory mechanisms on Federal, a significant threat to the lynx DPS in Oregon, and in the North Coast Ranges, State, and private lands do not provide the contiguous United States. We do not Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains, and sufficient protection for the key consider lynx in New Mexico, or its Sierra Nevada in California. Because of elements of fisher habitat, or the habitat in New Mexico, to be essential a lack of detections with standardized certainty that conservation efforts will to the survival or recovery of the DPS; survey efforts over much of the fisher’s be implemented or effective. The as a result, neither human-caused historical range, the fisher is believed to magnitude of threats is high as they mortality nor habitat modification in be extirpated or reduced to scattered occur across the range of the DPS, New Mexico creates a significant threat individuals from the lower mainland of resulting in a negative impact on fisher to the lynx DPS in the contiguous British Columbia through Washington distribution and abundance. However, United States. Potential impacts to the and northern Oregon and in the central the threats are nonimminent as the habitat in New Mexico have not been and northern Sierra Nevada in greatest long-term risks to the fisher in documented to threaten lynx, either in California. Extant populations of native its west coast range are the subsequent New Mexico or outside of it. The fisher are isolated to the North Coast ramifications of the isolation of small amount of suitable habitat for lynx in and Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains of populations and their interactions with New Mexico is considered negligible northern California and southwestern the listed threats. Therefore, we relative to the amount of habitat within Oregon, and the southern Sierra Nevada assigned an LPN of 6 to this DPS. the listed range, and the majority of lynx in California. Descendants of a fisher New Mexico meadow jumping mouse habitats within the contiguous United reintroduction effort also occur in the (Zapus hudsonius luteus)—We continue States are already protected by the ESA. southern Cascades in Oregon. Two to find that listing this species is The threats are also nonimminent, recent reintroduction efforts in Olympic warranted but precluded as of the date because they occur infrequently. National Park in Washington and in the of publication of this notice. However, Because lynx in the lower 48 States are northern Sierra Nevada in California we are working on a proposed listing already listed as a DPS and conditions have completed the movement and rule that we expect to publish prior to affecting the lynx in New Mexico are release of fishers to their respective making the next annual resubmitted neither imminent nor of sufficient study areas. Several years of monitoring petition 12-month finding. In the course magnitude to pose a threat to the lynx are still needed to determine if these of preparing the proposed listing rule, DPS throughout the contiguous United will become successfully-established we are continuing to monitor new States, the appropriate LPN for this level populations. information about this species’ status so of magnitude and immediacy of threats Estimates of fisher numbers in native that we can make prompt use of our for a DPS is 12. populations of the West Coast DPS vary authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the Gunnison’s prairie dog (Cynomys widely. A rigorous monitoring program case of an emergency posing a gunnisoni)—Gunnison’s prairie dogs is lacking for the native northern significant risk to the species. occur in Arizona, Colorado, New California-southwestern Oregon and Mazama pocket gopher (Thomomys Mexico, and Utah. In our February 5, reintroduced southern Oregon Cascades mazama ssp. couchi, douglasii, 2008, 12-month finding (73 FR 6660), populations, making estimates of fisher glacialis, louiei, melanops, pugetensis, we determined that listing the Gunnison numbers for these two populations tacomensis, tumuli, yelmensis)—We prairie dog was warranted but difficult. The fisher monitoring program continue to find that listing these precluded, with an LPN of 2, due to in the southern Sierra Nevada subspecies is warranted but precluded threats in a significant portion of its population has provided preliminary as of the date of publication of this range—the montane portion of the estimates indicating no decline in the notice. However, we are working on a species’ range within Colorado and New index of abundance within the proposed listing rule that we expect to Mexico—where the effects from plague monitored portion of the population. publish prior to making the next annual and other factors threaten those The two populations of native fisher in resubmitted petition 12-month finding. populations. This finding was the northern California-southwestern In the course of preparing the proposed challenged by WildEarth Guardians in

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September of 2008. On September 30, Idaho ground squirrels as compared to Washington ground squirrel habitat in 2010, the Court set aside our 2008 native vegetation. Habitat deterioration, portions of its range. Throughout much finding and remanded the matter back destruction, and fragmentation of its range, Washington ground to us for further action. The Court found contribute to the current patchy squirrels are threatened by the that we arbitrarily and capriciously distribution of southern Idaho ground establishment and spread of invasive ‘‘determined that something other than squirrels. Some human-altered plant species, particularly cheatgrass a species was an endangered or landscapes, such as golf courses and (Bromus tectorum), which alter threatened species which warranted row crops of alfalfa, provide alternative available cover and food quantity and listing.’’ In response to the decision of habitats that maintain high densities of quality, and increase fire frequency. the Court, we will reevaluate the status southern Idaho ground squirrels. Additional threats include habitat of the Gunnison’s prairie dog and However, high densities of ground fragmentation, recreational shooting, deliver a revised 12-month finding to squirrels in agricultural fields genetic isolation and drift, and the Federal Register. However, we are sometimes cause crop damage, which predation. Potential threats include currently unable to complete a status results in reduced tolerance of the disease, drought, and possible review due to budget and workload species by local landowners. competition with related species in limitations. Furthermore, initiating a One programmatic Candidate disturbed habitat at the periphery of the revised status review for the species Conservation Agreement with Washington ground squirrel’s range. would be premature at this time because Assurances (CCAA) has been completed In Oregon, some threats are being of a significant ongoing genetics study for this species; it includes conservation addressed as a result of the State’s initiated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife measures that minimize ground- listing the species as endangered under (CPW) (formerly the Colorado Division disturbing activities, allow for the the Oregon State Endangered Species of Wildlife) along with researchers at investigation of methods to restore Act (OESA), and by implementation of the University of Colorado Boulder currently degraded habitat, provide the Threemile Canyon Farms Multi- addressing Gunnison’s prairie dog additional protection to southern Idaho Species CCAA. In Washington, there are taxonomy. This work will be essential ground squirrels from recreational currently no formal agreements with in determining whether or not shooting and other direct killing on private landowners or with State or Gunnison’s prairie dogs in the montane enrolled lands, and allow for the Federal agencies to protect the and prairie portions of the species’ translocation of squirrels to or from Washington ground squirrel. range constitute two subspecies. We enrolled lands, if necessary. The acreage Additionally, no State or Federal anticipate the analysis of these genetic enrolled through the CCAA management plans have been developed data will likely be completed by late encompasses approximately 9 percent of to specifically address the needs of the 2012 and we will evaluate the the known range of the species. While species. Since current and potential information thereafter. It is critical for the ongoing conservation efforts have threats are widespread, and, in some us to consider this potentially helped to reduce the magnitude of priority areas, could significantly affect significant taxonomic revision in our threats to moderate, habitat degradation the survival of the species, we conclude revised status review after the CPW remains the primary threat to the the magnitude of threats remains high. releases its final genetics report. species throughout most of its range. The Washington ground squirrel has Gunnison’s prairie dogs will remain a This threat is imminent due to the both imminent and nonimminent ongoing and increasing prevalence of threats. At a rangewide scale, we candidate within the montane portion of nonnative vegetation, and the current conclude the threats are nonimminent their range until we complete this patchy distribution of the species. Thus, based largely on the following: The analysis. we assign an LPN of 9 to this Threemile Canyon Farms Multi-Species Southern Idaho ground squirrel subspecies. CCAA addressed the imminent loss of a (Spermophilus brunneus endemicus)— Washington ground squirrel large portion of habitat to agriculture; The following summary is based on (Spermophilus washingtoni) — The there are currently no other large-scale information contained in our files. No following summary is based on efforts to convert suitable habitat to new information was provided in the information contained in our files and agriculture; and wind power project petition we received on May 11, 2004. in the petition we received on March 2, impacts can be minimized through The southern Idaho ground squirrel is 2000. The Washington ground squirrel compliance with the OESA and the endemic to 4 counties in southwest is endemic to the Deschutes-Columbia Columbia Basin Ecoregion wind energy Idaho; its total known range is Plateau sagebrush-steppe and grassland siting and permitting guidelines. We approximately 426,000 ha (1,050,000 communities in north-central Oregon also consider the potential development ac). Threats to southern Idaho ground and south-central Washington. of shooting ranges on the Naval squirrels include: habitat degradation Although historically abundant and Weapons Systems Training Facility as and fragmentation; direct killing from widespread, approximately two-thirds nonimminent because the proposed shooting, trapping, or poisoning; of its total historical range has been action is still under development and predation; competition with other converted to agricultural and residential we are unable to assess its timing and ground squirrel species; and inadequacy uses. The most contiguous, least impact, which could be minimized of existing regulatory mechanisms. disturbed expanse of suitable habitat through compliance with the OESA. Habitat degradation and fragmentation within the species’ range occurs on land We, therefore, have retained an LPN of appear to be the primary threats to the in Oregon owned by Boeing, Inc., and 5 for this species. species. Nonnative annuals such as on the Naval Weapons Systems Training Red tree vole, north Oregon coast DPS Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) and Facility near Boardman, Oregon. In (Arborimus longicaudus)—The Taeniatherum caput-medusae Washington, the largest area of suitable following summary is based on (medusahead) now dominate much of habitat occurs on State and Federal information contained in our files and this species’ range and have altered the lands. in our initial warranted-but-precluded fire regime by accelerating the frequency Agricultural, residential, and wind finding, published in the Federal of wildfire. Nonnative annuals provide power development, among other forms Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR inconsistent forage quality for southern of development, continue to eliminate 63720). Red tree voles are small, mouse-

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sized rodents that live in conifer forests vole north Oregon coast DPS an LPN of We recognize that Pacific walrus face and spend almost all of their time in the 9. additional stressors from ocean tree canopy. They are one of the few Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus warming, ocean acidification, disease, animals that can persist on a diet of divergens)—The following information oil and gas exploration and conifer needles, which is their principal is based on information in our files and development, increased shipping, food. Red tree voles are endemic to the our warranted-but-precluded 12-month commercial fishing, and subsistence humid, coniferous forests of western petition finding published on February harvest, but none rise to the level of a Oregon (generally west of the crest of 10, 2011 (76 FR 7634). The Pacific threat except subsistence harvest. We the Cascade Range) and northwestern walrus is an ice-dependent species found that subsistence harvest will rise California (north of the Klamath River). found across the continental shelf to the level of a threat if the population The north Oregon coast DPS of the red waters of the northern Bering and declines but harvest levels remain the tree vole comprises that portion of the Chukchi Seas. Unlike seals that can same. Because the threat of sea ice loss Oregon Coast Range from the Columbia remain in the water indefinitely, walrus is not having significant population- River south to the Siuslaw River. Red must haulout onto ice or land level effects currently, but is projected tree voles demonstrate strong selection periodically. Pacific walrus is a to, we determined the magnitude of this threat is moderate, not high. Because for nesting in older conifer forests, traditional and important source of food both the loss of sea ice habitat and which are now relatively rare across the and products to native Alaskans, subsistence harvest are presently DPS; they avoid nesting in younger especially those living on Saint occurring, these threats are imminent. forests. Lawrence Island, and to native Russians. Thus, we assigned an LPN of 9 to this Although data are not available to Annually, walrus migrate up to 1,500 subspecies. rigorously assess population trends, km (932 mi) between winter breeding North American wolverine, information from retrospective surveys areas in the sub-Arctic (northern Bering contiguous U.S. DPS (Gulo gulo indicates red tree voles have declined in Sea) and summer foraging areas in the luscus)—We continue to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded the DPS and no longer occur, or are now Arctic. Historically, the females and as of the date of publication of this scarce, in areas where they were once calves remained on pack ice over the notice. However, we are working on a relatively abundant. Older forests that continental shelf of the Chukchi Sea proposed listing rule that we expect to provide habitat for red tree voles are throughout the summer, using it as a publish prior to making the next annual limited and highly fragmented, while platform for resting after making resubmitted petition 12-month finding. ongoing forest practices in much of the shallow foraging dives for invertebrates In the course of preparing the proposed DPS maintain the remaining patches of on the sea floor. Sea ice also provides listing rule, we are continuing to older forest in a highly fragmented and isolation from disturbance and monitor new information about this isolated condition. Modeling indicates terrestrial predators such as polar bears. species’ status so that we can make only 11 percent within the area of the Since 1979, the extent of summer Arctic DPS currently contains tree vole habitat, prompt use of our authority under sea ice has declined. The four lowest Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an largely restricted to the 22 percent of the records of minimum sea ice extent area that is under Federal ownership. emergency posing a significant risk to occurred from 2007 to 2011. Based on the species. Existing regulatory mechanisms on State the best scientific information available, and private lands are inadequate to we anticipate that sea ice will retreat Birds prevent continued harvest of forest northward off the Chukchi continental Spotless crake, American Samoa DPS stands at a scale and extent that would shelf for 1 to 5 months every year in the (Porzana tabuensis)—The following be meaningful for conserving red tree foreseeable future. summary is based on information voles. Biological characteristics of red When the ice melts beyond the limits contained in our files. No new tree voles, such as small home ranges, of the continental shelf (and the ability information was provided in the limited dispersal distances, and low of the walrus to obtain food), thousands petition we received on May 11, 2004. reproductive potential, limits their of walrus congregate at coastal haulouts. Porzana tabuensis is a small, dark, ability to respond to and persist in areas Although coastal haulouts have cryptic rail found in wetlands and rank of extensive habitat loss and alteration. historically provided a place to rest, the scrublands or forests in the Philippines, These biological characteristics also aggregation of so many animals, in Australia, Fiji, Tonga, Society Islands, make it difficult for the tree voles to particular females and calves, at this Marquesas, Independent Samoa, and recolonize isolated habitat patches. Due time of year has increased in the last 5 American Samoa (Ofu, Tau). The genus to its reduced distribution, the red tree years. Not only are the number of Porzana is widespread in the Pacific, vole is now vulnerable to random animals more concentrated at coastal where it is represented by numerous environmental disturbances that may haulouts than on widely dispersed sea island-endemic and flightless species remove or further isolate large blocks of ice, but also the probability of (many of which are extinct as a result already limited habitat, and to disturbance from humans and terrestrial of anthropogenic disturbances) as well extirpation within the DPS from such animals is much higher. Disturbances at as several more cosmopolitan species, factors as genetic variability, inbreeding coastal haulouts cause stampedes, including P. tabuensis. No subspecies of depression, and demographic leading to mortalities and injuries. In P. tabuensis are recognized. stochasticity. Although the entire addition, because of the amount of food The American Samoa population is population is experiencing threats, the these large animals need, there is also the only population of spotless crakes impact is less pronounced on Federal concern that the concentration of under U.S. jurisdiction. The available lands where much of the red tree vole animals will cause local prey depletion information indicates that distinct habitat remains. Hence, the magnitude leading to longer foraging trips, populations of the spotless crake, a of threats is moderate to low. The increased energy costs, and potential species not noted for long-distance threats are imminent because they are effects on female fitness and calf dispersal, are definable. The population currently occurring within the DPS. survival. We expect these effects to lead of spotless crakes in American Samoa is Therefore, we have assigned the red tree to a population decline. discrete in relation to the remainder of

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the species as a whole, which is monitor new information about this American Samoa. The total population distributed in widely separated species’ status so that we can make size is poorly known, but is unlikely to locations. Although the spotless crake prompt use of our authority under number more than a few hundred pairs. (and other rails) have dispersed widely Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an The distribution of the friendly ground- in the Pacific, flight in island rails has emergency posing a significant risk to dove is limited to steep, forested slopes atrophied or been completely lost over the species. with an open understory and a substrate evolutionary time causing populations Friendly ground-dove, American of fine scree or exposed earth; this to become isolated (and vulnerable to Samoa DPS (Gallicolumba stairi)—The habitat is not common in American terrestrial predators such as rats). The following summary is based on Samoa. The threats are ongoing and population of this species in American information contained in our files. No therefore imminent, and the magnitude Samoa is therefore distinct based on new information was provided in the is moderate because relative abundance geographic and distributional isolation petition we received on May 11, 2004. has remained unchanged for several from spotless crake populations on The genus Gallicolumba is distributed years. Thus, we assign this DPS an LPN other islands in the oceanic Pacific, the throughout the Pacific and Southeast of 9. Philippines, and Australia. The Asia. The genus is represented in the Red knot (Calidris canutus rufa)—We American Samoa population of the oceanic Pacific by six species: Three are continue to find that listing this species spotless crake links the Central and endemic to Micronesian islands or is warranted but precluded as of the Eastern Pacific portions of the species’ archipelagos, two are endemic to island date of publication of this notice. range. The loss of this population would groups in French Polynesia, and G. However, we are working on a proposed result in an increase of roughly 500 mi stairi is endemic to Samoa, Tonga, and listing rule that we expect to publish (805 km) in the distance between the Fiji. Some authors recognize two prior to making the next annual central and eastern Polynesian portions subspecies of the friendly ground-dove, resubmitted petition 12-month finding. of the spotless crake’s range, and could one, slightly smaller, in the Samoan In the course of preparing the proposed result in the isolation of the Marquesas archipelago (G. s. stairi), and one in listing rule, we are continuing to and Society Islands populations by Tonga and Fiji (G. s. vitiensis), but monitor new information about this further limiting the potential for even because morphological differences species’ status so that we can make rare genetic exchange. Based on the between the two are minimal, we are prompt use of our authority under discreteness and significance of the not recognizing separate subspecies at Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an American Samoa population of the this time. emergency posing a significant risk to spotless crake, we consider this In American Samoa, the friendly the species. population to be a distinct vertebrate ground-dove has been found on the Yellow-billed loon (Gavia adamsii)— population segment. islands of Ofu and Olosega (Manua The following summary is based on Threats to this population have not Group). Threats to this subspecies have information contained in our files and changed over the past year. The not changed over the past year. the petition we received on April 5, population in American Samoa is Predation by nonnative species and 2004. The yellow-billed loon is a threatened by small population size, natural catastrophes such as hurricanes migratory bird. Solitary pairs breed on limited distribution, predation by are the primary threats to the lakes in the arctic tundra of the United nonnative and native animals, subspecies. Of these, predation by States, Russia, and Canada from June to continued development of wetland nonnative species is thought to be September. During the remainder of the habitat, and natural catastrophes such as occurring now and likely has been year, the species winters in more hurricanes. The co-occurrence of a occurring for several decades. This southern coastal waters of the Pacific known predator of ground-nesting birds, predation may be an important Ocean and the Norway and North Seas. the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), and impediment to population growth. The available information is not native predators, the Pacific boa Predation by introduced species has sufficient to dismiss subsistence harvest (Candoia bibroni) and the purple played a significant role in reducing, as a threat to the species. While swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio), along limiting, and extirpating populations of subsistence harvest information, which with the extremely restricted observed island birds, especially ground-nesters has bias of unknown direction and distribution and low numbers, indicate like the friendly ground-dove, in the magnitude, cannot be used to precisely that the magnitude of the threats to the Pacific and other locations worldwide. estimate harvest, it indicates that tens to American Samoa DPS of the spotless Nonnative predators known or thought possibly low hundreds of yellow-billed crake continues to be high, because the to occur in the range of the friendly loons are harvested throughout Alaska, threats significantly affect the species’ ground-dove in American Samoa are Russia, and Canada annually. The survival. The threats are ongoing, and feral cats (Felis catus), Polynesian rats available information suggests that the therefore imminent. Based on this (Rattus exulans), black rats (R. rattus), majority of harvest likely occurs during assessment of existing information and Norway rats (R. norvegicus). spring and fall migrations, as yellow- about the imminence and high In January 2004 and February of 2005, billed loons move along the coast of magnitude of these threats, we assigned hurricanes virtually destroyed the Alaska or through the Chukchi and the spotless crake an LPN of 3. habitat of G. stairi in the area on Olosega Bering seas. As a result, what harvest Yellow-billed cuckoo, western U.S. Island where the species had been most actually is occurring is extracted from a DPS (Coccyzus americanus)—We frequently recorded. Although this migrant population that likely includes continue to find that listing this species species has evolved on islands subject much of the species’ total rangewide is warranted, but precluded as of the to severe storms, this example illustrates numbers of 16,000 to 32,000. Although date of publication of this notice. the potential for natural disturbance to uncertainty surrounding harvest levels, However, we are working on a proposed exacerbate the effect of anthropogenic breeding-population composition of the listing rule that we expect to publish disturbance on small populations. migrant population, and total prior to making the next annual Consistent monitoring using a variety of population size exists, the current resubmitted petition 12-month finding. methods over the last 5 years yielded information on subsistence harvest In the course of preparing the proposed few observations and no change in the seems to indicate that a small listing rule, we are continuing to relative abundance of this taxon in proportion of the migrant population is

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harvested each year. While it currently elusus). Identified threats include visiting tanker vessels. However, these appears that fewer yellow-billed loons introduced predators at nesting facilities are still early in the complex may be harvested than previously colonies, oil spills and oil pollution, and long-term planning processes, and thought, we are continuing to gather reduced prey availability, human it is possible that none of these facilities data and refine model-based predictions disturbance, and artificial light will be built. In addition, none of them to address the uncertainties regarding pollution. is directly adjacent to nesting colonies, subsistence harvest and the effect it may Although substantial declines in the where their impacts would be expected have at the population level. Therefore, Xantus’s murrelet population likely to be more significant. The threats from we conclude that subsistence harvest is occurred over the last century, some of nonnative predators and artificial a threat to the species. the largest threats are being addressed lighting are of a high magnitude because Additionally, yellow-billed loons are and, to some degree, ameliorated. they have been sufficient to cause subject to several stressors, including oil Declines and possible extirpations at significant declines in the population. and gas exploration and development, several nesting colonies were thought to However, because of the efforts to marine pollution, the effects of climate have been caused by nonnative eliminate nonnative predators and change, the inadequacy of existing predators, which have been removed reduce artificial lighting, they are regulations, and fishing by-catch. While from many of the islands where they nonimminent. Therefore, we retained an these stressors may not rise to the level once occurred. Most notably, since LPN of 5 for this species. of a threat individually, when taken 1994, Island Conservation and Ecology Red-crowned parrot (Amazona collectively they could cause Group has systematically removed rats, viridigenalis)—The red-crowned parrot population-level effects. cats, and dogs from every murrelet occurs in fragmented isolated habitat in The primary threat of subsistence nesting colony in Mexico, with the the Mexican states of Veracruz, San Luis harvest is currently occurring; therefore, exception of cats and dogs on Potosi, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, and the threat is imminent. The magnitude Guadalupe Island. In 2002, rats were northeast Queretaro; and in Hidalgo and of subsistence harvest is moderate based eradicated from Anacapa Island in Cameron Counties, Texas. Feral on what we currently know about the southern California, which has resulted populations may also exist in southern level of harvest. Thus, we assigned the in improvements in reproductive California, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and yellow-billed loon an LPN of 8. success at that island. In southern Florida and escaped birds have been Kittlitz’s murrelet (Brachyramphus California, efforts to restore nesting reported in central Texas. The species brevirostris)—We continue to find that habitat on Santa Barbara Island through generally occurs in tropical lowlands listing this species is warranted but the Montrose Settlements Restoration and foothills, inhabiting tropical precluded as of the date of publication Project may benefit the Xantus’s deciduous forest, gallery forest, of this notice. However, we are working murrelet population at that island. evergreen floodplain forest, Tamaulipan on a proposed listing rule that we Artificial lighting from squid fishing thornscrub, and semi-open areas; in expect to publish prior to making the and other vessels, or from lights on Texas, the species is known to nest in next annual resubmitted petition 12- islands, remains a potential threat to the cavities in the urban centers of town in month finding. In the course of species. Bright lights make Xantus’s palm species. Currently, the population preparing the proposed listing rule, we murrelets more susceptible to predation, of red-crowned parrots is extremely are continuing to monitor new and they can also become disoriented small (less than 5,000 individuals) and information about this species’ status so and exhausted from continual attraction fragmented, and a large portion that we can make prompt use of our to bright lights. Chicks can become (approximately half) of the population authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the disoriented and separated from their occurs within the species’ historical case of an emergency posing a parents at sea, which could result in range in Mexico. The primary threats to significant risk to the species. death of the dependent chicks. High- the red-crowned parrot at this time Xantus’s murrelet (Synthliboramphus wattage lights on commercial market include habitat loss, illegal capture for hypoleucus)—The following summary is squid (Loligo opalescens) fishing vessels the pet trade, and the inadequacy of based on information contained in our used at night to attract squid to the regulatory mechanisms that address files and the petition we received on surface of the water in the Channel those threats. April 16, 2002. The Xantus’s murrelet is Islands was the suspected cause of The primary threats to the red- a small seabird in the family Alcidae unusually high predation on Xantus’s crowned parrot are affecting a large that occurs along the west coast of North murrelets by western gulls (Larus portion of the species’ population America in the United States, Mexico, occidentalis) and barn owls (Tyto alba) throughout the historical range of the and Canada. The species has a limited at Santa Barbara Island in 1999. To species in Mexico. We consider the breeding distribution, only nesting on address this threat, in 2000, the magnitude high because the current the Channel Islands in southern California Fish and Game Commission population is small, a large portion of California and on islands off the west required light shields and a limit of the population is affected, and these coast of Baja California, Mexico. 30,000 watts per boat; it is unknown if factors may lead to extirpation in Although data on population trends are this is sufficient to reduce impacts. Mexico. Further, we have no scarce, scientists believe the population Since 1999, no significant squid fishing information indicating the Lower Rio declined greatly over the last century, has occurred near any of the colonies in Grande Valley populations can persist mainly due to introduced predators the Channel Islands; however, this in the absence of the Mexico such as rats (Rattus sp.) and feral cats remains a potential future threat. populations. Threats to the red-crowned (Felis catus) to nesting islands, with A proposal to build three liquid parrot are currently affecting possible extirpations on three islands in natural gas facilities near the Channel populations and are expected to Mexico. A dramatic decline (up to 70 Islands could affect the nesting colonies continue to occur in the future. percent) from 1977 to 1991 was detected due to bright lights at night from the Therefore, threats to the red-crowned at the largest nesting colony in southern facilities and visiting tanker vessels, parrot are imminent. As a result of the California, possibly due to high levels of noise from the facilities or from imminent, high magnitude threats, we predation on eggs by the endemic deer helicopters visiting the facilities, and assigned an LPN of 2 for the red- mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus the threat of oil spills associated with crowned parrot.

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Sprague’s pipit (Anthus spragueii)— assigned the Sprague’s pipit an LPN of the species from these ongoing threats. The following summary is based on 8. However, many of these habitat impacts information contained in our files and Lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus are being actively addressed through in the petition we received on October pallidicinctus)—We continue to find conservation actions taken by local 15, 2008. The Sprague’s pipit is a small that listing this species is warranted, but working groups, and State and Federal grassland bird characterized by its high precluded as of the date of publication agencies. Notably, the National flight display and otherwise very of this notice. However, we are working Resource Conservation Service has secretive behavior. Sprague’s pipits are on a proposed listing rule that we committed significant financial and strongly tied to native prairie (land expect to publish prior to making the technical resources to address threats to which has never been plowed) next annual resubmitted petition 12- this species on private lands through throughout their life cycle. Its breeding month finding. In the course of their Sage-grouse Initiative. These range includes portions of Minnesota, preparing the proposed listing rule, we efforts, when fully implemented, will Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, are continuing to monitor new potentially provide important information about this species’ status so and Canada. The Sprague’s pipit’s conservation benefits to the greater sage- that we can make prompt use of our wintering range includes south-central grouse and its habitats. We consider the authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the threats to the greater sage-grouse to be and southeast Arizona, southern New case of an emergency posing a of moderate magnitude, because the Mexico, Texas, southern Oklahoma, significant risk to the species. threats are not occurring with uniform southern Arkansas, northwest Gunnison sage-grouse (Centrocercus intensity or distribution across the wide Mississippi, southern Louisiana, and minimus)—We continue to find that range of the species at this time, and northern Mexico. The vast majority of listing this species is warranted, but substantial habitat still remains to the U.S. winter sightings have been in precluded as of the date of publication support the species in many areas. The Texas but there have been migration of this notice. However, we are working threats are imminent because the sightings in Michigan, western Ontario, on a proposed listing rule that we species is currently facing them in many Ohio, Massachusetts, and Gulf and expect to publish prior to making the portions of its range. Therefore, we Atlantic States from Mississippi east next annual resubmitted petition 12- assigned the greater sage-grouse an LPN and north to South Carolina. Sprague’s month finding. In the course of of 8. pipits also have been sighted in preparing the proposed listing rule, we Greater sage-grouse, Bi-State DPS California during fall migration. are continuing to monitor new (Centrocercus urophasianus)—We Threats to this species include: information about this species’ status so continue to find that listing this species Habitat loss and conversion, habitat that we can make prompt use of our is warranted, but precluded as of the fragmentation on the breeding grounds, authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the date of publication of this notice. energy development, roads, and case of an emergency posing a However, we are working on a proposed inadequacy of existing regulatory significant risk to the species. listing rule that we expect to publish mechanisms. Due to prairie habitat loss Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus prior to making the next annual and fragmentation, only 15 to 18 percent urophasianus)—The following summary resubmitted petition 12-month finding. is based on information in our files and of the historical breeding habitat in the In the course of preparing the proposed in the petition we received on January United States remains in patches of listing rule, we are continuing to 30, 2002. Currently, greater sage-grouse sufficient size for males to establish monitor new information about this occur in 11 States (Washington, Oregon, territories. The Breeding Bird Survey species’ status so that we can make California, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, and Christmas Bird Count both show a prompt use of our authority under Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, South Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an 40-year decline of 73 to 79 percent (3.23 Dakota, and North Dakota), and 2 to 4.1 percent annually), although the emergency posing a significant risk to Canadian provinces (Alberta and the species. population seems to have stabilized in Saskatchewan), occupying Greater sage-grouse, Columbia Basin recent years. We anticipate that prairie approximately 56 percent of their DPS (Centrocercus urophasianus)—The habitat will continue to be converted historical range. Greater sage-grouse following summary is based on and fragmented. Most of the breeding depend on a variety of shrub-steppe information in our files and a petition, range, including those areas where habitats throughout their life cycle, and dated May 14, 1999, requesting the grassland habitat still remains, has been are considered obligate users of several listing of the Washington population of identified as a prime area for wind species of sagebrush. the western sage-grouse (C. u. phaios). energy development, and an oil and gas The primary threat to greater sage- On May 7, 2001, we concluded that boom is occurring in the central part of grouse is ongoing fragmentation and listing the Columbia Basin DPS of the the breeding range in the United States loss of shrub-steppe habitats through a western sage-grouse was warranted, but and Canada. On the wintering range, variety of mechanisms. Most precluded by higher priority listing conversion of grassland to agriculture importantly, increasing fire cycles and actions (66 FR 22984); this population and other uses appears to be invasive plants (and the interaction was historically found in northern accelerating. While habitat loss has between them) in more westerly parts of Oregon and central Washington. occurred and will likely to continue to the range, along with energy Following our May 7, 2001, finding, the occur, as noted above, approximately 15 development and related infrastructure Service received additional petitions to18 percent of the breeding range in more easterly areas, are negatively requesting listing actions for various remains in suitable habitat cover and in affecting species. In addition, direct loss other greater sage-grouse populations, large enough patch sizes to support of habitat and fragmentation is including one for the nominal western nesting, and population decline seems occurring due to agriculture, subspecies, dated January 24, 2002, and to have slowed in recent years. Thus, urbanization, and infrastructure such as three for the entire species, dated June the threats are moderate in magnitude. roads and power lines built in support 18, 2002, and March 19 and December The threats are imminent because the of several activities. We also have 22, 2003. The Service subsequently species is currently facing them in many determined that existing regulatory found that the petition for the western portions of its range. Therefore, we have mechanisms are inadequate to protect subspecies did not present substantial

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information (68 FR 6500; February 7, other nesting areas. The available there are no large-scale efforts to control 2003), and that listing the greater sage- information indicates that distinct nonnative predators in the Hawaiian grouse throughout its historical range populations of band-rumped storm- Islands. The threats are imminent was not warranted (70 FR 2244; January petrels are definable and that the because they are ongoing, and they are 12, 2005). These latter findings were Hawaiian population is distinct based of a high magnitude because they are remanded to the Service for further on geographic and distributional reducing the population size of the DPS. consideration. In response, we initiated isolation from other band-rumped Therefore, we assign this distinct a new rangewide status review for the storm-petrel populations in Japan, the population segment an LPN of 3. entire species (73 FR 10218; February Galapagos, and the Atlantic Ocean. A Elfin-woods warbler (Dendroica 26, 2008). On March 5, 2010, we found population also can be considered angelae)—The following summary is that listing of the greater sage-grouse discrete if it is delimited by based on information contained in our was warranted but precluded by higher international boundaries that have files. No new information was provided priority listing actions (75 FR 13909; differences in management control of in the petition we received on May 11, March 23, 2010), and it was added to the species. The Hawaiian population of 2004. Dendroica angelae, or elfin-woods the list of candidates. We also found the band-rumped storm-petrel is the warbler, is a small entirely black and that the western subspecies of the only population within U.S. borders or white warbler, distinguished by its greater sage-grouse, the taxonomic under U.S. jurisdiction. Loss of the white eyebrow stripe, white patches on entity we relied on in our DPS analysis Hawaiian population would cause a ear covers and neck, incomplete eye for the Columbia Basin population, was significant gap in the distribution of the ring, and black crown. The elfin-woods no longer considered a valid subspecies. band-rumped storm-petrel in the warbler was at first thought to occur In light of our conclusions regarding the Pacific, and could result in the complete only in high elevations at dwarf or elfin taxonomic invalidity of the western isolation of the Galapagos and Japan forests, but it has since been found at sage-grouse subspecies, the significance populations without even occasional lower elevations including shade coffee of the Columbia Basin DPS to the greater genetic exchange. Therefore, the plantations and secondary forests. These sage-grouse will require further review. population is both discrete and birds build a compact cup nest, usually The Service intends to complete an significant, and constitutes a DPS. close to the trunk and well hidden among the epiphytes of small trees. Its analysis to determine if this population The band-rumped storm-petrel continues to warrant recognition as a breeding season extends from March to probably was common on all of the June. Elfin-woods warblers forage in the DPS in accordance with our Policy main Hawaiian Islands when Regarding the Recognition of Distinct middle part of trees, gleaning insects Polynesians arrived about 1,500 years from leaves in the outer portion of tree Vertebrate Population Segments (61 FR ago, based on storm-petrel bones found 4722; February 7, 1996) at the time we crowns. The species has been in middens on the island of Hawaii and documented from four locations in make a listing decision on the status of in excavation sites on Oahu and the greater sage-grouse. Until that time, Puerto Rico: Luquillo Mountains, Sierra Molokai. Nesting colonies of this de Cayey, and the Commonwealth the Columbia Basin DPS will remain a species in the Hawaiian Islands candidate for listing. forests of Maricao and Toro Negro. currently are restricted to remote cliffs However, it has not been recorded again Band-rumped storm-petrel, Hawaii on Kauai and Lehua Island and high- in Toro Negro and Cayey, following the DPS (Oceanodroma castro)—The elevation lava fields on Hawaii. passing of Hurricane Hugo in 1989. In following summary is based on Vocalizations of the species were heard 2003 and 2004, surveys were conducted information contained in our files and in Haleakala Crater on Maui as recently for the elfin-woods warbler in the Carite the petition we received on May 8, as 2006; however, no nesting sites have Commonwealth Forest, Toro Negro 1989. No new information was provided been located on the island to date. The Forest, Guilarte Forest, Bosque del in the second petition received on May significant reduction in numbers and Pueblo, Maricao Forest, and the El 11, 2004. The band-rumped storm-petrel range of the band-rumped storm-petrel Yunque National Forest. These surveys is a small seabird that is found in is due primarily to predation by only reported sightings at Maricao several areas of the subtropical Pacific nonnative species introduced by Commonwealth Forest (778 individuals) and Atlantic Oceans. In the Pacific, humans, including the domestic cat and El Yunque National Forest (196 there are three widely separated (Felis catus), small Indian mongoose individuals). breeding populations—one in Japan, (Herpestes auropunctatus), common The elfin-woods warbler is currently one in Hawaii, and one in the barn owl (Tyto alba), black rat (R. threatened by habitat modification. Galapagos. Populations in Japan and the rattus), Polynesian rat (R. exulans), and Elfin-woods warblers have been Galapagos are comparatively large and Norway rat (R. norvegicus). These historically common in the elfin number in the thousands, while the nonnative predators occur throughout woodland of El Yunque National Forest Hawaiian birds represent a small, the main Hawaiian Islands, with the and the Podocarpus forest type of remnant population of possibly only a exception of the mongoose, which is not Maricao Commonwealth Forest. few hundred pairs. Band-rumped storm- established on Kauai. Attraction of Removal and replacement of this forest petrels are most commonly found in fledglings to artificial lights, which vegetation with infrastructure (e.g., close proximity to breeding islands. The disrupts their night-time navigation, telecommunication towers and three populations in the Pacific are resulting in collisions with building and recreational facilities) may have affected separated by long distances across the other objects, and collisions with the species. Although this loss of habitat ocean where birds are not found. artificial structures such as has been permanent and restoration Extensive at-sea surveys of the Pacific communication towers and utility lines would take a few decades, the present have revealed a broad gap in are also threats. Erosion of nest sites regulatory process, at both the distribution of the band-rumped storm- caused by the actions of nonnative Commonwealth and Federal levels, have petrel to the east and west of the ungulates is a potential threat in some curtailed this threat. Unrestricted Hawaiian Islands, indicating that the locations. Efforts are under way in some development within the El Yunque distribution of birds in the central areas to reduce light pollution and buffer zone needs to be addressed to Pacific around Hawaii is disjunct from mitigate the threat of collisions, but determine the impact on the migratory

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behavior of the species. Conversion of historical range, the geographic Black pine snake (Pituophis elfin-woods warbler habitat (e.g., mature distribution has been restricted by the melanoleucus lodingi)—The following secondary forests, young secondary loss of the species from much of the area summary is based on information forests, and shaded-coffee plantations) within the boundaries of that range. contained in our files. No new along the periphery of the Maricao Approximately 40 percent of the information was provided in the Commonwealth Forest to marginal counties that were historically occupied petition we received on May 11, 2004. habitat (e.g., pastures, dry slope forests, by S. catenatus no longer support the There are historical records for the black residential rural forests, gallery forests, species. S. catenatus is currently listed pine snake from one parish in and unshaded coffee plantations), has as endangered in every State and Louisiana, 14 counties in Mississippi, affected potential corridors for the elfin- province in which it occurs, except for and 3 counties in Alabama west of the woods warbler, resulting in a reduced Michigan where it is designated as a Mobile River Delta. Black pine snake dispersal and expansion capability of species of special concern. Each State surveys and trapping indicate that this the species. These threats are not and Canadian province across the range species has been extirpated from imminent because most of the range of of S. catenatus has lost more than 30 Louisiana and from four counties in the species is within protected lands. percent of its historical population of Mississippi. Moreover, the distribution of remaining populations has become The magnitude of threat to the elfin- the species, and for the majority more woods warbler is low to moderate highly restricted due to the destruction than 50 percent. Furthermore, fewer because there is no indication that the and fragmentation of the remaining than 35 percent of the remaining two populations of the elfin-woods longleaf pine habitat within the range of populations are considered secure. warbler are declining in numbers. The the subspecies. Most of the known species can thrive in disturbed and Approximately 59 percent of the Mississippi populations are plantation habitats, although abundance remaining S. catenatus populations concentrated on the DeSoto National of the species on these habitats is lower occur wholly or in part on public land, Forest. In Alabama, populations than in primary habitats. Moreover, and Statewide and/or site-specific occurring on properties managed by elfin-woods warblers appear to recover CCAAs are currently being developed State and other governmental agencies, well, and in a relatively short time, from for many of these areas in Illinois and as gopher tortoise mitigation banks or damaging effects of hurricanes to the Michigan. In 2004, a Candidate wildlife sanctuaries, represent the best forest structure. Therefore, we assign a Conservation Agreement (CCA) with the opportunities for long-term survival of listing priority number of 11 to the elfin- Lake County Forest Preserve District in the subspecies there. Other factors woods warbler. Illinois was completed. In 2005, a CCA affecting the black pine snake include with the Forest Preserve District of Cook vehicular mortality and low Reptiles County in Illinois was completed. In reproductive rates, which magnify the Northern Mexican gartersnake 2006, a CCAA with the Ohio threats from destruction and (Thamnophis eques megalops)—We Department of Natural Resources fragmentation of longleaf pine habitat continue to find that listing this species Division of Natural Areas and Preserves and increase the likelihood of local is warranted but precluded as of the was completed for Rome State Nature extinctions. Due to the imminent threats date of publication of this notice. Preserve in Ashtabula County. In 2011, of high magnitude caused by the past However, we are working on a proposed a CCAA with the Wisconsin Department destruction of most of the longleaf pine listing rule that we expect to publish of Natural Resources was completed for habitat of the black pine snake, and the prior to making the next annual the Lower Chippewa River Bottoms. continuing persistent degradation of resubmitted petition 12-month finding. These agreements are addressing threats what remains, we assigned an LPN of 3 In the course of preparing the proposed in those areas and thus reduce the to this subspecies. listing rule, we are continuing to magnitude of threats for the species as Louisiana pine snake (Pituophis monitor new information about this a whole. Therefore, the magnitude of ruthveni)—The following summary is species’ status so that we can make threats is considered ‘‘moderate’’ at this based on information contained in our prompt use of our authority under time. However, a recently completed files and the petition we received on Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an extinction risk model and information July 20, 2000, and updated through emergency posing a significant risk to April 30, 2011. The Louisiana pine provided by species experts indicate the species. snake historically occurred in the fire- that other populations are likely to Eastern massasauga rattlesnake maintained longleaf pine ecosystem suffer additional losses in abundance (Sistrurus catenatus)—The following within west-central Louisiana and summary is based on information and genetic diversity, and some will extreme east-central Texas. Most of the contained in our files. The Service likely be extirpated unless threats are historical longleaf pine habitat of the received a petition containing no new removed in the near future. Declines Louisiana pine snake has been information on May 11, 2004. Until have continued or may be accelerating destroyed or degraded due to logging, 2011, the eastern massasauga was in several States. Thus we are fire suppression, roadways, short- considered one of three recognized monitoring the status of this species to rotation silviculture, and grazing. The subspecies of massasauga. Based on determine if a change in listing priority loss and fragmentation of the longleaf recent information, we recognized the is warranted. Threats of habitat pine ecosystem has resulted in extant eastern massasauga rattlesnake as a modification, habitat succession, Louisiana pine snake populations that distinct species beginning in 2011. It is incompatible land management are isolated and small. a small, thick-bodied rattlesnake that practices, illegal collection for the pet The Louisiana pine snake is currently occupies shallow wetlands and adjacent trade, and human persecution are restricted to seven disjunct populations; upland habitat in portions of Illinois, ongoing and constitute imminent threats five of the populations occur on federal Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, to many remaining populations, lands, and two occur mainly on private New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, particularly those inhabiting private industrial timberlands. Currently Wisconsin, and Ontario. lands. Based on imminent threats of occupied habitat in Louisiana and Texas Although the current range of S. moderate magnitude, we assigned this is estimated to be approximately catenatus resembles the species’ species an LPN of 8. 159,000 ac. All remnant Louisiana pine

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snake populations have been affected by the next 20 years and beyond. These species; the gopher tortoise is federally habitat loss and all require active habitat plans also call for an increase in roads listed as threatened in the western management. A CCA was completed in and transportation corridors, which portion of its range, which includes 2003 to maintain and enhance occupied have been documented to affect the Alabama (west of the Mobile and and potential habitat on public lands, snake through direct mortality. Tombigbee Rivers), Mississippi, and and to protect known Louisiana pine Additionally, development of solar Louisiana. snake populations. This proactive energy facilities and transmission The primary threat to the gopher habitat management has likely slowed corridors throughout the State is being tortoise is habitat fragmentation, or reversed the rate of Louisiana pine pursued, and demand for these facilities destruction, and modification (either snake habitat degradation on many will likely increase. Some of these deliberately or from inattention), portions of federal lands. Because all facilities are being considered within including conversion of longleaf pine extant populations are currently isolated the range of the Tucson shovel-nosed forests to other silvicultural or and fragmented by habitat loss in the snake. Wildfires due to infestations of agricultural habitats, urbanization, matrix between populations, there is nonnative grasses in the snake’s habitat, shrub/hardwood encroachment (mainly little potential for dispersal among dominated by native plants not adapted from fire exclusion or insufficient fire remnant populations or for the natural to survive wildfires, are likely to management), and establishment and re-colonization of vacant habitat increase in frequency and magnitude in spread of invasive species. Other threats patches. the future as these invasive grasses include disease, predation (mainly on While the extent of Louisiana pine continue to spread rapidly. Regulations nests and young tortoises), and snake habitat loss has been great in the are not in place to minimize or mitigate inadequate regulatory mechanisms, past and much of the remaining habitat these threats to the Tucson shovel-nosed specifically those needed to protect and has been degraded, habitat loss does not snake and its habitat, and, therefore, enhance relocated tortoise populations represent an imminent threat, primarily they are likely to put the snake at risk in perpetuity. The magnitude of threats because the rate of habitat loss appears of local extirpation or extinction. These to the eastern range of the gopher to be declining on public lands. threats, particularly those that lead to a tortoise is moderate to low, as However, all populations require active loss of habitat, are likely to reduce the populations extend over a broad habitat management, and the lack of population of the Tucson shovel-nosed geographic area and conservation adequate habitat remains a threat for snake across its entire range. Given the measures are in place in some areas. several populations. The potential limited geographic distribution of this However, because the species is threats to a large percentage of extant snake and the fact that its entire range currently being affected by a number of Louisiana pine snake populations, lies within the path of development in threats including destruction and coupled with the likely permanence of the foreseeable future, these threats are modification of its habitat, disease, these effects and the species’ low of high magnitude. Because predation, exotics, and inadequate fecundity and low population sizes development, wildfires, and spread of regulatory mechanisms, the threat is (based on capture rates and occurrence nonnative grasses are ongoing, and are imminent. Thus, we have assigned a data), lead us to conclude that the likely to increase in the future, the listing priority number of 8 for this threats have significant effect on the threats are imminent. Accordingly, we species. survival of the species and therefore have assigned an LPN of 3 to the Tucson Sonoyta mud turtle (Kinosternon remain high in magnitude. The threats shovel-nosed snake. sonoriense longifemorale)—See above in are not imminent, because the rate of Desert tortoise, Sonoran (Gopherus ‘‘Listing Priority Changes in habitat loss appears to be declining due morafkai)—See above in ‘‘Listing Candidates.’’ The above summary is to proactive habitat management. Thus, Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The based on information contained in our based on nonimminent, high-magnitude above summary is based on information files. threats, we assign a listing priority contained in our files. Amphibians number of 5 to this species. Gopher tortoise, eastern population Tucson shovel-nosed snake (Gopherus polyphemus)—The following Columbia spotted frog, Great Basin (Chionactis occipitalis klauberi)—The summary is based on information in our DPS (Rana luteiventris)—The following Tucson shovel-nosed snake is a small, files. The gopher tortoise is a large, summary is based on information burrowing snake in the Colubridae terrestrial, herbivorous turtle that contained in our files and the petition family that occupied a roughly 35-mile- reaches a total length up to 15 in (38 we received on May 1, 1989. Currently, wide swath running along the Phoenix- cm), and typically inhabits the the Great Basin DPS of Columbia Tucson corridor in northeastern Pima, sandhills, pine/scrub oak uplands, and spotted frogs appear to be widely southwestern Pinal, and eastern pine flatwoods associated with the distributed throughout southwest Idaho, Maricopa Counties, Arizona. No longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) southeast Oregon, northeast and central systematic surveys have been conducted ecosystem. A fossorial animal, the Nevada, but most populations within to assess the status of the subspecies gopher tortoise is usually found in areas this range appear to be small and throughout its range, but it has with well-drained, deep, sandy soils; an isolated from each other. Recent work apparently disappeared from some open tree canopy; and a diverse, by researchers in Idaho and Nevada areas. abundant, herbaceous groundcover. The have documented the loss of historically Threats to the Tucson shovel-nosed gopher tortoise ranges from extreme known sites, reduced numbers of snake include urban and rural southern South Carolina south through individuals within local populations, development; road construction, use, peninsular Florida, and west through and declines in the reproduction of and maintenance; concentration of solar southern Georgia, Florida, southern those individuals. power facilities and transmission Alabama, and Mississippi, into extreme Small, highly fragmented populations, corridors; agriculture; wildfires; and southeastern Louisiana. The eastern characteristic of the majority of existing lack of adequate management and population of the gopher tortoise in populations of Columbia spotted frogs regulation. Comprehensive plans South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and in the Great Basin, are susceptible to encompassing the entire range of the Alabama (east of the Mobile and extinction processes. Development and snake encourage large growth areas in Tombigbee Rivers) is a candidate poor management of Columbia spotted

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frog habitat—including water the date of publication of this notice. have been successfully established with development, improper grazing, mining However, we are working on a proposed captive-reared frogs. Conservation is activities, and nonnative species—have listing rule that we expect to publish proceeding under the agreement and contributed and continue to contribute prior to making the next annual strategy; however, additional time is to the degradation and fragmentation of resubmitted petition 12-month finding. needed to determine whether or not the habitat. Emerging fungal diseases such In the course of preparing the proposed agreement and strategy will be effective as chytridiomycosis, Ranavirus listing rule, we are continuing to in eliminating or reducing the threats to outbreaks, and the spread of parasites monitor new information about this the point that the relict leopard frog can may be contributing factors to Columbia species’ status so that we can make be removed from candidate status. In spotted frog population declines prompt use of our authority under consideration of these conservation throughout portions of its range. Effects Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an efforts and the overall threat level to the of climate change such as drought and emergency posing a significant risk to species, we determined the magnitude stochastic events such as fire often have the species. of existing threats is moderate to low. detrimental effects to small, isolated Relict leopard frog (Lithobates Potential water development and other populations and can often exacerbate onca)—The following summary is based habitat effects, presence of introduced existing threats. A 10-year Conservation on information contained in our files. predators, chytrid fungus, limited Agreement and Strategy was signed in Natural relict leopard frog populations distribution, small population size, and September 2003 for both the Northeast occur in two general areas in Nevada: climate change are ongoing and, and the Toiyabe subpopulations in Near the Overton Arm area of Lake therefore, imminent threats. Therefore, Nevada. The goals of the conservation Mead, and Black Canyon below Lake we assigned a listing priority number of agreements are to reduce threats to Mead. These two areas represent a small 8 to this species. Columbia spotted frogs and their habitat fraction of the historical distribution of Striped newt (Notophthalmus to the extent necessary to prevent the species. Its historical range included perstriatus)—The following summary is populations from becoming extirpated springs, streams, and wetlands within based on information contained in our throughout all or a portion of their the Virgin River drainage downstream files. The striped newt is a small historical range and to maintain, from the vicinity of Hurricane, Utah; salamander that inhabits ephemeral enhance, and restore a sufficient along the Muddy River, Nevada; and ponds surrounded by upland habitats of number of populations of Columbia along the Colorado River from its high pine, scrubby flatwoods, and scrub. spotted frogs and their habitat to ensure confluence with the Virgin River Longleaf pine-turkey oak stands with their continued existence throughout downstream to Black Canyon below intact ground cover containing their historical range. Additionally, a Lake Mead, Nevada and Arizona. wiregrass are the preferred upland CCAA was completed in 2006 for the Factors contributing to the decline of habitat for striped newts, followed by Owyhee subpopulation at Sam Noble the species include alteration, loss, and scrub, then flatwoods. Life-history Springs, Idaho. Several habitat degradation of aquatic habitat due to stages of the striped newt are complex, enhancement projects have been water developments and and include the use of both aquatic and conducted throughout the DPS’s range impoundments, and scouring and terrestrial habitats throughout their life that have benefitted these populations. erosion; changes in plant communities cycle. Striped newts are opportunistic Because the DPS is widely distributed that result in dense growth and the feeders that prey on frog eggs, worms, and there are management actions in prevalence of vegetation; introduced snails, fairy shrimp, spiders, and insects place working to reduce the scope of predators; climate change; and (adult and larvae) that are of appropriate threats to the speces, we conclude that stochastic events. The presence of size. They occur in appropriate habitats the threats are moderate. The threats are chytrid fungus in relict leopard frogs at from the Atlantic Coastal Plain of imminent, because development and Lower Blue Point Spring is a concern southeastern Georgia to the north- poor management of its habitat, and and warrants further evaluation of the central peninsula of Florida and through fungal diseases and parasites are already threat of disease to the relict leopard the Florida panhandle into portions of present. Based on imminent threats of frog. The size of natural and southwest Georgia. There is a 125-km moderate magnitude, we assigned an translocated populations is small, and, (78-mi) separation between the western LPN of 9 to this DPS of the Columbia therefore, these populations are and eastern portions of the striped spotted frog. vulnerable to stochastic events, such as newt’s range. Mountain yellow-legged frog, Sierra floods and wildfire. Climate change that The historical range of the striped Nevada DPS (Rana muscosa)—We results in reduced spring flow, habitat newt was likely similar to the current continue to find that listing this species loss, and increased prevalence of range. However, loss of native longleaf is warranted but precluded as of the wildfire would adversely affect relict habitat, fire suppression, and the natural date of publication of this notice. leopard frog populations. In 2005, the patchy distribution of upland habitats However, we are working on a proposed National Park Service, in cooperation used by striped newts have resulted in listing rule that we expect to publish with the Fish and Wildlife Service and fragmentation of existing populations. prior to making the next annual other Federal, State, and local partners, Other threats to the species include resubmitted petition 12-month finding. developed a conservation agreement disease, drought, and inadequate In the course of preparing the proposed and strategy intended to improve the regulatory mechanisms. The magnitude listing rule, we are continuing to status of the species through prescribed of threats from habitat loss, fire monitor new information about this management actions and protection. suppression, and disease are moderate, species’ status so that we can make Conservation actions identified in the as most of the known striped newt prompt use of our authority under agreement and strategy include captive metapopulations are on conservation Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an rearing of tadpoles for translocation and lands, and, although disease has been emergency posing a significant risk to refugium populations, habitat and found in similar species, no known the species. natural history studies, habitat metapopulations of striped newts have Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa)— enhancement, population and habitat shown any evidence of disease. For We continue to find that listing this monitoring, and translocation. New sites drought, the magnitude is high because species is warranted but precluded as of within the historical range of the species nearly all populations are affected, and

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this factor may lead to possible threats of moderate magnitude. Based aridity of the region, thus reducing extirpation. Also, throughout the entire on moderate-magnitude, imminent stream flows and warming aquatic range of the striped newt, droughts are threats, we assigned this species a habitats, which makes the habitat more predicted to be more severe and longer listing priority number of 8. suitable to nonnative species. in the coming years, which could have Yosemite toad (Anaxyrus canorus)— The Arizona Game and Fish a detrimental effect on the species’ long- We continue to find that listing this Department’s Arizona Statewide term survival. In sum, because we find species is warranted but precluded as of Conservation Agreement for Roundtail that most of the threats are of a the date of publication of this notice. Chub (G. robusta), Headwater Chub, moderate magnitude, we find the overall However, we are working on a proposed Flannelmouth Sucker (Catostomus threats that the striped newt is facing to listing rule that we expect to publish latipinnis), Little Colorado River Sucker be moderate in magnitude. The threats prior to making the next annual (Catostomus spp.), Bluehead Sucker (C. are ongoing and, therefore, imminent. resubmitted petition 12-month finding. discobolus), and Zuni Bluehead Sucker Thus, we assigned a listing priority In the course of preparing the proposed (C. discobolus yarrowi) was finalized in number of 8 to the newt. listing rule, we are continuing to 2006. The New Mexico Department of Berry Cave salamander (Gyrinophilus monitor new information about this Game and Fish has listed the headwater gulolineatus)—The following summary species’ status so that we can make chub as endangered and in 2006 is based on information in our files. The prompt use of our authority under finalized a recovery plan for the species: Berry Cave salamander is recorded from Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an Colorado River Basin Chubs (Roundtail emergency posing a significant risk to Chub, Gila Chub (G. intermedia), and Berry Cave in Roane County, from Mud the species. Headwater Chub) Recovery Plan. Flats, Aycock Spring, Christian, Meades Black Warrior waterdog (Necturus Arizona’s agreement and New Mexico’s Quarry, Meades River, and Fifth caves alabamensis)—See above in ‘‘Listing recovery plan both recommend in Knox County; from Blythe Ferry Cave Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The preservation and enhancement of extant in Meigs County; and from an unknown above summary is based on information populations and restoration of historical cave in Athens, McMinn County, contained in our files. headwater-chub populations. The Tennessee. In May of 2012, the species recovery and conservation actions was also discovered in an additional Fishes prescribed by Arizona’s and New cave, The Lost Puddle Cave, in Knox Headwater chub (Gila nigra)—The Mexico’s plans, which we predict will County. These cave systems are all following summary is based on reduce and remove threats to this located within the Upper Tennessee information contained in our files since species, will require further discussions River and Clinch River drainages. A 2006 and in the 12-month finding and authorizations as they are being total of 113 caves in Middle and East published in the Federal Register on implemented. The recently completed Tennessee were surveyed from the time May 3, 2006 (71 FR 26007). The Arizona Game and Fish Department period of April 2004 through June 2007, headwater chub is a moderate-sized Sportfish Stocking Program’s resulting in observations of 63 Berry cyprinid fish. The range of the Conservation and Mitigation Program Cave salamanders. These surveys headwater chub has been reduced by contains significant conservation concluded that Berry Cave salamander approximately 60 percent. Twenty-three actions for the headwater chub that will populations are robust at Berry and streams (125 mi (200 km) of stream) are be implemented over the next 10 years. Mudflats caves where population thought to be occupied out of 26 streams Existing information indicates that declines had been previously reported (312 mi (500 km) of stream) formerly existing populations are stable and and documented two new populations occupied in the Gila River Basin in persisting in the long-term; 9 of the 23 of Berry Cave salamanders at Aycock Arizona and New Mexico. All remaining extant stream populations are currently Spring and Christian caves. Three Berry populations are fragmented and considered stable based on abundance Cave salamanders were spotted during isolated, and threatened by a and evidence of recruitment. Therefore, the May, 2012, survey in The Lost combination of factors. although threats are ongoing, the threats Puddle and additional surveys are Headwater chubs are threatened by are moderate in magnitude. We have planned. Ongoing threats to this species introduced, nonnative fish that prey on retained an LPN of 8 for this species at are in the form of lye leaching in the them and compete with them for food. this time. Meades Quarry Cave as a result of past Habitat destruction and modification Least chub (Iotichthys quarrying activities, a proposed have occurred and continue to occur as phlegethontis)—The following summary roadway with potential to impact the a result of dewatering, impoundment, is based on information contained in recharge area for the Meades Quarry channelization, and channel changes our files and in the petition received on Cave system, urban development in caused by alteration of riparian June 25, 2007. The least chub is a small, Knox County, water quality impacts vegetation and watershed degradation colorful fish species in Utah that follows despite existing State and Federal laws, from mining, grazing, roads, water thermal patterns for habitat use. Least and hybridization between spring pollution, urban and suburban chub use flooded, warmer, vegetated salamanders and Berry Cave development, groundwater pumping, marsh areas to spawn in the spring, and salamanders in Meades Quarry Cave. and other human actions. Existing retreat to spring heads to overwinter as These threats, coupled with confined regulatory mechanisms do not appear to the water recedes in the late summer distribution of the species and apparent be adequate for addressing the impact of and fall. Historically, many least chub low population densities, are all factors nonnative fish and also have not occurrences were reported across the that leave the Berry Cave salamander removed or eliminated the threats that State of Utah, but the current vulnerable to extirpation. Although continue to be posed through habitat distribution of the species is highly these threats are ongoing, the degradation. The fragmented nature and reduced from its historical range. population levels are robust at two rarity of existing populations makes Currently, only six known wild caves, and three new populations have them vulnerable to other natural or populations remain, but one of these is been found at three additional caves. manmade factors, such as drought and considered functionally extirpated. Therefore, we have determined that the wildfire. Climate change is predicted to Least chub also currently exist at several Berry Cave salamander faces imminent worsen these threats through increased genetic refuge sites. The species faces

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threats from the effects of livestock representing approximately 18 to 32 contains significant conservation grazing, which affects most least chub percent of the species’ former range, or actions for the roundtail chub that will sites despite efforts to protect least chub 800 km (500 mi) to 1,350 km (840 mi) be implemented over the next 10 years. habitat with grazing exclosures and of 3,050 km (1,895 mi) of formerly Although threats are ongoing, existing management plans. Least chub habitat occupied streams in the Gila River Basin information indicates long-term also is affected by current and proposed in Arizona and New Mexico. Most of the persistence and stability of existing future groundwater withdrawals, remaining populations are fragmented populations. Currently, 7 of the 32 especially when combined with the and isolated, and all are threatened by extant stream populations are threat of drought. These threats also act a combination of factors. considered stable, based on abundance cumulatively with climate change to put Roundtail chub are threatened by and evidence of recruitment. One new the least chub at further risk. Existing introduced, nonnative fish that prey on conservation population was initially regulatory mechanisms are currently them and compete with them for food. stocked in 2012, raising the number of inadequate to regulate groundwater Habitat destruction and modification extant populations to 33. Based on our withdrawals and ameliorate their effects have occurred and continue to occur as assessment, threats (primarily nonnative on least chub habitat. Nonnative a result of dewatering, impoundment, species and habitat loss from land uses) species, particularly mosquitofish, also channelization, and channel changes remain imminent, because they are are a continuing threat to least chub. caused by alteration of riparian ongoing, and are of moderate magnitude There is no known means of controlling vegetation and watershed degradation because there is evidence of long-term mosquitofish, and they have already from mining, grazing, roads, water persistence and stability of the existing caused the functional extirpation of one pollution, urban and suburban popualtions. Thus, we have retained an wild least chub population. development, groundwater pumping, LPN of 9 for this distinct population In 1998, several State and Federal and other human actions. Existing segment. agencies, including the Service and the regulatory mechanisms do not appear to Arkansas darter (Etheostoma Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, be adequate for addressing the impact of cragini)—The following summary is developed a Least Chub Conservation nonnative fish and also have not based on information contained in our Agreement and Strategy and formed the removed or eliminated the threats that files. No new information was provided Least Chub Conservation Team. Their continue to be posed through habitat in the petition we received on May 11, objectives are to eliminate or destruction or modification. The 2004. This fish species occurs in significantly reduce threats to the least fragmented nature and rarity of existing Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, chub and its habitat, and to ensure the populations make roundtail chub and Oklahoma. The species is found continued existence of the species by vulnerable to other natural or manmade most often in sand- or pebble-bottomed restoring and maintaining a minimum factors, such as drought and wildfire. pools of small, spring-fed streams and number of least chub populations Climate change is predicted to worsen marshes, with cool water and throughout its historical range. Recent these threats through increased aridity broadleaved aquatic vegetation. Its State-led least chub conservation of the region, thus reducing stream current distribution is indicative of a actions have included restoration of flows and warming aquatic habitats, species that once was widely dispersed habitat affected by grazing, which makes the habitat more suitable throughout its range, but has been reintroduction and range expansion, to nonnative species. relegated to isolated areas surrounded nonnative removal, population The Arizona Game and Fish by unsuitable habitat that prevents monitoring, and working cooperatively Department’s Arizona Statewide dispersal. with landowners to conserve water and Conservation Agreement for Roundtail Factors influencing the current aquatic habitat. This group also has Chub, Headwater Chub (G. nigra), distribution include: Surface and recently begun a structured decision- Flannelmouth Sucker (Catostomus groundwater irrigation resulting in making modeling process that will latipinnis), Little Colorado River Sucker decreased flows or stream dewatering; provide additional guidance for (Catostomus spp.), Bluehead Sucker (C. the dewatering of long reaches of conservation activities. discobolus), and Zuni Bluehead Sucker riverine habitat necessary for species Overall, grazing, groundwater (C. discobolus yarrowi) was finalized in movement when surface flows do occur; withdrawal, and predation by nonnative 2006. The New Mexico Department of conversion of prairie to cropland, which species are moderate magnitude threats; Game and Fish lists the roundtail chub influences groundwater recharge and some populations are more negatively as endangered and in 2006 finalized a spring flows; water quality degradation affected by these threats but in others recovery plan for the species: Colorado from a variety of sources; and the the threats are not decreasing the River Basin Chubs (Roundtail Chub, construction of dams, which act as populations or the threats are not Gila Chub (G. intermedia), and barriers preventing emigration upstream present. The threats are imminent Headwater Chub) Recovery Plan. Both and downstream through the reservoir because the species is currently facing the Arizona Agreement and the New pool. The magnitude of threats facing them in many portions of its range. Mexico Recovery Plan recommend this species is moderate to low, given Therefore, we have assigned the least preservation and enhancement of extant the number of different locations where chub an LPN of 7. populations and restoration of historical the species occurs and the fact that no Roundtail chub (Gila robusta), Lower roundtail chub populations. The single threat or combination of threats Colorado River DPS—The following recovery and conservation actions affects more than a portion of the summary is based on information prescribed by the Arizona and New widespread population occurrences. contained in our files and the 12-month Mexico plans, which we predict will Overall, the threats are nonimminent as finding published in the Federal reduce and remove threats to this groundwater pumping is declining and Register on July 7, 2009 (74 FR 32352). species, will require further discussions development, spills, and runoff are not The roundtail chub is a moderate to and authorizations as they are being currently affecting the species large cyprinid fish. The range of the implemented. The recently completed rangewide. Thus, we are retaining an roundtail chub has been reduced by Arizona Game and Fish Department LPN of 11 for the Arkansas darter. approximately 68 to 82 percent. Thirty- Sportfish Stocking Program’s Pearl darter (Percina aurora)—The two streams are currently occupied, Conservation and Mitigation Program following summary is based on

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information contained in our files. Little populations are isolated from one the date of publication of this notice. is known about the specific habitat another by dams or other factors. However, we are working on a proposed requirements or natural history of the All populations face potential threats listing rule that we expect to publish Pearl darter. Pearl darters have been from competition with and predation by prior to making the next annual collected from a variety of river/stream nonnative trout, and most populations resubmitted petition 12-month finding. attributes, mainly over gravel bottom face threats resulting from the alteration In the course of preparing the proposed substrate. This species is historically of their habitats, such as habitat listing rule, we are continuing to known only from localized sites within fragmentation from dams or irrigation monitor new information about this the Pascagoula and Pearl River diversion structures, stream dewatering, species’ status so that we can make drainages in Mississippi and Louisiana. high summer water temperatures, loss of prompt use of our authority under Currently, the Pearl darter is considered riparian habitats, and entrainment in Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an extirpated from the Pearl River drainage irrigation ditches. Severe drought likely emergency posing a significant risk to and rare in the Pascagoula River also affects all populations by reducing the species. drainage. Since 1983, the range of the water availability and reducing the Zuni bluehead sucker (Catostomus Pearl darter has decreased by 55 extent of thermally suitable habitat. discobolus yarrowi)—We continue to percent. Projected climate changes will likely find that listing this species is The Pearl darter is threatened by non- influence the severity and scope of these warranted but precluded as of the date point source pollution caused by threats in the future. As applied, of publication of this notice. However, urbanization and other land use existing regulatory mechanisms do not we are working on a proposed listing activities; gravel mining and resultant appear to be adequate to address the rule that we expect to publish prior to changes in river geomorphology, primary threats to arctic grayling. In making the next annual resubmitted especially head cutting; and the addition, four of five populations are at petition 12-month finding. In the course possibility of water quantity decline risk from random environmental of preparing the proposed listing rule, from the proposed Department of fluctuations and genetic drift due to we are continuing to monitor new Energy Strategic Petroleum Reserve their low abundance and isolation. The information about this species’ status so project and a proposed dam on the magnitude of these threats is high that we can make prompt use of our Bouie River. Additional threats are because one or more of these threats authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the posed by the apparent lack of adequate occurs in each known population in the case of an emergency posing a Missouri River basin. The threats are significant risk to the species. State and Federal water quality imminent because they are currently Rio Grande cutthroat trout regulations due to the continuing occurring and are expected to continue (Oncorhynchus clarki virginalis)—The degradation of water quality within the in the foreseeable future. Therefore, we following summary is based on species’ habitat. The Pearl darter’s have assigned the upper Missouri River information contained in our files and localized distribution and apparent low DPS of arctic grayling an LPN of 3. our status review published on May 14, population numbers may indicate a Sicklefin redhorse (Moxostoma sp.)— 2008 (73 FR 27900). Rio Grande species with lower genetic diversity, We continue to find that listing this cutthroat trout is one of 14 subspecies which would also make this species species is warranted but precluded as of of cutthroat trout found in the western more vulnerable to catastrophic events. the date of publication of this notice. United States. Populations of this Threats affecting the Pearl darter are However, we are working on a proposed subspecies are in New Mexico and localized in nature, affecting only listing rule that we expect to publish Colorado in drainages of the Rio Grande, portions of the population within the prior to making the next annual Pecos, and Canadian rivers. Although drainage; thus, a threat magnitude of resubmitted petition 12-month finding. once widely distributed in connected moderate to low is assigned for this In the course of preparing the proposed stream networks, Rio Grande cutthroat species. In addition, the threats are listing rule, we are continuing to trout populations now occupy about 10 considered imminent, as the identified monitor new information about this percent of historical habitat, and the threats are currently affecting this species’ status so that we can make populations are fragmented and isolated species in some portions of its range. prompt use of our authority under from one another. The majority of Therefore, we have assigned a listing Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an populations occur in high-elevation priority number of 8 for this species. emergency posing a significant risk to streams. Arctic grayling, Upper Missouri River the species. Major threats include the loss of DPS (Thymallus arcticus)—The Sharpnose shiner (Notropis suitable habitat that has occurred and is following summary is based on oxyrhynchus)—We continue to find that likely to continue occurring due to information contained in our files. This listing this species is warranted but water diversions, dams, stream drying, fish species has a broad, nearly precluded as of the date of publication habitat quality degradation, and changes circumpolar distribution, occurring in a of this notice. However, we are working in hydrology; introduction of nonnative variety of cold-water habitats including on a proposed listing rule that we trout and ensuing competition, small streams, large rivers, lakes, and expect to publish prior to making the predation, and hybridization; and even bogs. We determined in our next annual resubmitted petition 12- whirling disease. In addition, average September 8, 2010, status review (75 FR month finding. In the course of air temperatures in the Southwest have 54708) that the upper Missouri River preparing the proposed listing rule, we increased about 1 °C (2.5 °F) in the past population of arctic grayling in Montana are continuing to monitor new 30 years, and they are projected to and Wyoming represents a DPS because information about this species’ status so increase by another 1.2 to 2.8 °C (3 to it is discrete due to geographic that we can make prompt use of our 7 °F) by 2050. Because trout require cold separation and genetic differences, and authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the water, and water temperatures depend it is significant to the taxon as a whole. case of an emergency posing a in large part on air temperature, there is The historical range of Arctic grayling in significant risk to the species. concern that the habitat of Rio Grande the upper Missouri River basin has Smalleye shiner (Notropis buccula)— cutthroat trout will further decrease in declined dramatically in the past We continue to find that listing this response to warmer water temperatures century. The five remaining indigenous species is warranted but precluded as of caused by climate change. Wildfire and

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drought (stream drying) are additional extinction of the Texas fatmucket in the threats may be exacerbated by the threats to Rio Grande cutthroat trout foreseeable future. current and projected effects of climate populations that are likely to increase in The threats are such that the Texas change, population fragmentation and magnitude in response to climate fatmucket warrants listing; the threats isolation, and the anticipated threat of change. Research is occurring to assess are high in magnitude because habitat nonnative species. Threats to the Texas the effects of climate change on this loss and degradation from fawnsfoot and its habitat are not being subspecies, and agencies are working to impoundments, sedimentation, sand adequately addressed through existing restore historically occupied streams and gravel mining, and chemical regulatory mechanisms. Because of the and develop a conservation plan to contaminants are widespread limited distribution of this endemic direct conservation. The threats are of throughout the range of the Texas species and its lack of mobility, these moderate magnitude because there is fatmucket and profoundly affect its threats are likely to result in the good distribution and a comparatively survival and recruitment. These threats extinction of the Texas fawnsfoot in the large number of populations across the are exacerbated by climate change, foreseeable future. landscape, some populations have few which will increase the frequency and The threats are such that the Texas threats present, and in other areas magnitude of droughts. Remaining fawnsfoot warrants listing; the threats management actions are being taken to populations are small, isolated, and are high in magnitude. Habitat loss and help control the threat of nonnative highly vulnerable to stochastic events, degradation from impoundments, trout. Overall, the threats are ongoing which could lead to extirpation or sedimentation, sand and gravel mining, and, therefore, imminent. Based on extinction. We consider these threats to and chemical contaminants are imminent threats of moderate be imminent because they are ongoing widespread throughout the range of the magnitude, we retain an LPN of 9 for and will continue in the foreseeable Texas fawnsfoot and profoundly affect this subspecies. future. Habitat loss and degradation its habitat. These threats are exacerbated have already occurred and will continue by climate change, which will increase Clams as the human population continues to the frequency and magnitude of Texas fatmucket (Lampsilis grow in central Texas. Texas fatmucket droughts. Remaining populations are bracteata)—The following summary is populations may already be below the small, isolated, and highly vulnerable to based on information contained in our minimum viable population stochastic events. These threats are files. The Texas fatmucket is a large, requirement, which causes a reduction imminent because they are ongoing and elongated freshwater mussel that is in the number of populations and an will continue in the foreseeable future. endemic to central Texas. Its shell can increase in the species’ vulnerability to Habitat loss and degradation has already be moderately thick, smooth, and extinction. Based on imminent, high- occurred and will continue as the rhomboidal to oval in shape. Its external magnitude threats, we assigned the human population continues to grow in coloration varies from tan to brown with Texas fatmucket an LPN of 2. central Texas. The Texas fawnsfoot Texas fawnsfoot (Truncilla populations may already be below the continuous dark brown, green-brown, or macrodon)—The following summary is minimum viable population black rays, and internally it is pearly based on information contained in our requirement, which causes a reduction white, with some having a light salmon files. The Texas fawnsfoot is a small, in the number of populations and an tint. This species historically occurred relatively thin-shelled freshwater increase in the species’ vulnerability to throughout the Colorado and mussel that is endemic to central Texas. extinction. Based on imminent, high- Guadalupe-San Antonio River basins Its shell is long and oval, generally free magnitude threats we assigned the but is now known to occur only in nine of external sculpturing, with external Texas fawnsfoot an LPN of 2. streams within these basins in very coloration that varies from yellowish- or Texas hornshell (Popenaias popei)— limited numbers. All existing orangish-tan, brown, reddish-brown, to The following summary is based on populations are represented by only one smoky-green with a pattern of broken information contained in our files and or two individuals and are not likely to rays or irregular blotches. The internal information provided by the New be stable or recruiting. color is bluish-white or white and Mexico Department of Game and Fish The Texas fatmucket is primarily iridescent posteriorly. This species and Texas Parks and Wildlife threatened by habitat destruction and historically occurred throughout the Department. The Texas hornshell is a modification from impoundments, Colorado and Brazos River basins and is freshwater mussel found in the Black which scour river beds, thereby now known from only five locations. River in New Mexico, and in the Rio removing mussel habitat; decrease water The Texas fawnsfoot has been Grande and the Devils River in Texas. quality; modify stream flows; and extirpated from nearly all of the Until March 2008, the only known prevent fish host migration and Colorado River basin and from much of extant populations were in New distribution of freshwater mussels. This the Brazos River basin. Of the Mexico’s Black River and one locality in species is also threatened by populations that remain, only three are the Rio Grande near Laredo, Texas. In sedimentation, dewatering, sand and likely to be stable and recruiting; the March 2008, two new localities were gravel mining, and chemical remaining populations are disjunct and confirmed in Texas: one in the Devils contaminants. Additionally, these restricted to short stream reaches. River, and one in the mainstem Rio threats may be exacerbated by the The Texas fawnsfoot is primarily Grande in the Rio Grande Wild and current and projected effects of climate threatened by habitat destruction and Scenic River segment downstream of change, population fragmentation and modification from impoundments, Big Bend National Park. In 2011, the Rio isolation, and the anticipated threat of which scour river beds, thereby Grande population near Laredo was nonnative species. Threats to the Texas removing mussel habitat, decrease water resurveyed and found to be large and fatmucket and its habitat are not being quality, modify stream flows, and robust. adequately addressed through existing prevent fish host migration and The primary threats to this species are regulatory mechanisms. Because of the distribution of freshwater mussels, as habitat alterations such as streambank limited distribution of this endemic well as by sedimentation, dewatering, channelization, impoundments, and species and its lack of mobility, these sand and gravel mining, and chemical diversions for agriculture and flood threats are likely to result in the contaminants. Additionally, these control (including a proposed low-water

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diversion dam just downstream of the nonnative species. Threats to the golden prevent fish host migration and Rio Grande population near Laredo); orb and its habitat are not being distribution of freshwater mussels. The contamination of water by oil and gas adequately addressed through existing species is also threatened by activity; alterations in the natural regulatory mechanisms. Because of the sedimentation, dewatering, sand and riverine hydrology; and increased limited distribution of this endemic gravel mining, and chemical sedimentation and flood pulses from species and its lack of mobility, these contaminants. Additionally, these prolonged overgrazing and loss of native threats may be likely to result in the threats may be exacerbated by the vegetation. Although riverine habitats extinction of the golden orb in the current and projected effects of climate throughout the species’ known occupied foreseeable future. change, population fragmentation and range are under constant threat from The threats are such that the golden isolation, and the anticipated threat of these ongoing or potential activities, orb warrants listing; the threats are nonnative species. Threats to the numerous conservation actions to moderate in magnitude. Habitat loss and smooth pimpleback and its habitat are benefit the species are under way in degradation from impoundments, not being adequately addressed through New Mexico, including the completion sedimentation, sand and gravel mining, existing regulatory mechanisms. of a State recovery plan for the species, and chemical contaminants are Because of the limited distribution of and are beginning in Texas on the Big widespread throughout the range of the this endemic species and its lack of Bend reach of the Rio Grande. Due to golden orb, but several large mobility, these threats may be likely to these ongoing conservation efforts, and populations remain, including one that result in the extinction of the smooth because at least one of the populations was recently discovered, suggesting that pimpleback in the foreseeable future. appears to be robust, the magnitude of the threats are not high in magnitude. The threats are such that the smooth the threats is moderate. However, the These threats are exacerbated by climate pimpleback warrants listing; the threats threats to the species are ongoing and change, which will increase the are moderate in magnitude. Habitat loss remain imminent. Thus, we maintained frequency and magnitude of droughts. and degradation from impoundments, an LPN of 8 for this species. These threats are imminent because sedimentation, sand and gravel mining, Golden orb (Quadrula aurea)—The they are ongoing and will continue in and chemical contaminants are following summary is based on the foreseeable future. Habitat loss and widespread throughout the range of the information contained in our files. The degradation have already occurred and smooth pimpleback, but several large golden orb is a small, round-shaped will continue as the human population populations remain, including one that freshwater mussel that is endemic to continues to grow in central Texas. was recently discovered, suggesting that central Texas. Its shell is smooth and Several golden orb populations may the threats are not high in magnitude. unsculptured, except for concentric already be below the minimum viable These threats are exacerbated by climate growth rings, and the external population requirement, which causes a change, which will increase the coloration varies from yellow-brown, reduction in the number of populations frequency and magnitude of droughts. gold, or orangish-brown to dark brown and an increase in the species’ These threats are imminent because or black with some individuals having vulnerability to extinction. Based on they are ongoing and will continue in faint green rays. The internal color is imminent, moderate threats, we the foreseeable future. Habitat loss and bluish-white. This species historically assigned the golden orb an LPN of 8. degradation have already occurred and occurred throughout the Nueces-Frio Smooth pimpleback (Quadrula will continue as the human population and Guadalupe-San Antonio River houstonensis)—The following summary continues to grow in central Texas. basins and is now known from only is based on information contained in Several smooth pimpleback populations nine locations in four rivers. The golden our files. The smooth pimpleback is a may already be below the minimum orb has been eliminated from nearly the small, round-shaped freshwater mussel viable population requirement, which entire Nueces-Frio River basin. Four of that is endemic to central Texas. Its causes a reduction in the number of these populations appear to be stable shell is moderately thick and inflated, populations and an increase in the and reproducing, and the remaining five and the external coloration varies from species’ vulnerability to extinction. populations are small and isolated and tan to light brown, dark brown, and Based on imminent, moderate threats, show no evidence of recruitment. It black with little to no sculpturing. The we assigned the smooth pimpleback an appears that the populations in the internal color is silvery white. This LPN of 8. middle Guadalupe and lower San species historically occurred throughout Texas pimpleback (Quadrula Marcos Rivers are likely connected. The the Colorado and Brazos River basins petrina)—The following summary is remaining extant populations are highly and is now known from only nine based on information contained in our fragmented and restricted to short locations. The smooth pimpleback has files. The Texas pimpleback is a large, reaches. been eliminated from nearly the entire freshwater mussel that is endemic to The golden orb is primarily Colorado River and all but one of its central Texas. Its shell is generally threatened by habitat destruction and tributaries, and has been limited to the smooth with the exception of growth modification from impoundments, central and lower Brazos River drainage. lines and moderately thick and inflated. which scour river beds, thereby Five of the populations are represented The external coloration ranges from removing mussel habitat, decrease water by no more than a few individuals while yellowish-tan to dark brown with some quality, modify stream flows, and six of the existing populations appear to individuals mottled or with dark green prevent fish host migration and be relatively stable and recruiting, while rays, and, internally, the nacre is white distribution of freshwater mussels. The the remaining populations are small, and iridescent posteriorly. This species species is also threatened by isolated, and represented by only a few historically occurred throughout the sedimentation, dewatering, sand and individuals. Colorado and Guadalupe-San Antonio gravel mining, and chemical The smooth pimpleback is primarily River basins, but is now known to only contaminants. Additionally, these threatened by habitat destruction and occur in four streams within these threats may be exacerbated by the modification from impoundments, basins. Only two populations appear current and projected effects of climate which scour river beds, thereby large enough to be stable, but evidence change, population fragmentation and removing mussel habitat, decrease water of recruitment is limited in the Concho isolation, and the anticipated threat of quality, modify stream flows, and River population and is present in the

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San Saba River population, which may petition we received on April 20, 2010. Carolina endemic, though the complete be the only remaining recruiting The black mudalia is a small snail that historical range of the species is populations of Texas pimpleback. The is found clinging to clean gravel, cobble, unknown. The species is known from remaining two populations are boulders, and logs in flowing water on only four sites in the lower Cape Fear represented by one or two individuals shoals and riffles. The historical River Basin in North Carolina. Salinity and are highly disjunct. distribution of the black mudalia and pH are major factors limiting the The Texas pimpleback is primarily encompassed over 250 mi of stream distribution of the magnificent threatened by habitat destruction and channel in the upper Black Warrior ramshorn, as the snail prefers freshwater modification from impoundments, River drainage in Alabama. The species bodies with pH within the range of 6.8 which scour river beds, thereby has been extirpated from more than 80 to 7.5. removing mussel habitat, decrease water percent of that range by the construction While several factors have likely quality, modify stream flows, and of two major dams on the main stem contributed to the possible extirpation prevent fish host migration and Black Warrior River and another dam on of the magnificent ramshorn in the wild, distribution of freshwater mussels. This the lower Sipsey Fork. Other historical the primary factors include loss of species is also threatened by causes of range curtailment in the un- habitat associated with the extirpation sedimentation, dewatering, sand and dammed river and stream channels of of beavers (and their impoundments) in gravel mining, and chemical the upper Black Warrior River drainage the early 20th century, increased contaminants. Additionally, these include coal mine drainage, industrial salinity and alteration of flow patterns, threats may be exacerbated by the and municipal pollution events, and and increased input of nutrients and current and projected effects of climate agricultural runoff. The black mudalia is other pollutants. While efforts have change, population fragmentation and currently known from 10 shoal been made to restore habitat for the isolation, and the anticipated threat of populations in five streams. magnificent ramshorn at one of the sites nonnative species. Threats to the Texas Water quality and habitat degradation known to have previously supported the pimpleback and its habitat are not being are the biggest threats to the continued species, all of the sites continue to be adequately addressed through existing existence of the black mudalia. Sources affected or threatened by the same regulatory mechanisms. Because of the of point and nonpoint pollution in the factors believed to have resulted in limited distribution of this endemic Black Warrior River Basin have been extirpation of the species from the wild. species and its lack of mobility, these numerous and widespread. Pollution is Currently, only two captive populations threats may be likely to result in the generated from inadequately treated exist: a single robust captive population extinction of the Texas pimpleback in effluent from industrial plants, sanitary of the species comprised of the foreseeable future. landfills, sewage treatment plants, approximately 100 adults, and a second The threats are such that the Texas poultry operations, and cattle feedlots. small population of 35 individuals. pimpleback warrants listing; the threats Surface mining represents another Although the robust captive population are high in magnitude because habitat threat to the biological integrity of of the species has been maintained since loss and degradation from stream habitats. Runoff from old, 1993, a single catastrophic event, such impoundments, sedimentation, sand abandoned coal mines generates as a severe storm, disease, or predator and gravel mining, and chemical pollution through acidification, infestation, affecting this captive contaminants are widespread increased mineralization, and sediment population could result in the near throughout the range of the Texas loading. Most of the stream segments extinction of the species. Thus, the pimpleback and profoundly affect its draining into black mudalia habitat threats are high in magnitude and survival and recruitment. Remaining currently support their water quality imminent, and we assigned this species populations are small, isolated, and classification standards; however, the an LPN of 2. highly vulnerable to stochastic events, reach of the Locust Fork where the Sisi snail (Ostodes strigatus)—The which could lead to extirpation or species is found is identified on the following summary is based on extinction. These threats are Alabama 303(d) List (a list of water information contained in our files. No exacerbated by climate change, which bodies failing to meet their designated new information was provided in the will increase the frequency and water-use classifications) as impaired by petition we received on May 11, 2004. magnitude of droughts. We consider siltation, nutrients, and/or other habitat The sisi snail is a ground-dwelling these threats to be imminent because alterations. Overall the magnitude of species in the Potaridae family, and is they are ongoing and will continue in threats is moderate. While all known endemic to American Samoa. The the foreseeable future. Habitat loss and populations are currently negatively species is now known from a single degradation have already occurred and affected by point or nonpoint source population on the island of Tutuila, will continue as the human population pollution, the discovery of surviving American Samoa. continues to grow in central Texas. populations in shoals of five streams in This species is currently threatened Texas pimpleback populations may the upper Black Warrior River reduces by habitat loss and modification and by already be below the minimum viable the magnitude of stochastic threats. predation from nonnative predatory population requirement, which causes a Additional surveys that are currently snails. The decline of the sisi snail in reduction in the number of populations underway will clarify the extent and American Samoa has resulted, in part, and an increase in the species’ status of black mudalia populations. from loss of habitat to forestry and vulnerability to extinction. Based on The threats are ongoing, and therefore agriculture and loss of forest structure to imminent, high-magnitude threats, we imminent. We assigned an LPN of 8 to hurricanes and nonnative weeds that assigned the Texas pimpleback an LPN this species. establish after these storms. All live sisi of 2. Magnificent ramshorn (Planorbella snails have been found in the leaf litter magnifica)—Planorbella magnifica, or beneath remaining intact forest canopy. Snails magnificent ramshorn, is the largest No snails were found in areas bordering Black mudalia (Elimia melanoides)— North American air-breathing agricultural plots or in forested areas The following summary is based on freshwater snail in the family that were severely damaged by three information contained in our files. No Planorbidae. The magnificent ramshorn hurricanes (1987, 1990, and 1991). new information was provided in the is believed to be a southeastern North Under natural historical conditions, loss

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of forest canopy to storms did not pose native forest habitat, the species is now threat to the Guam tree snail. On Guam, a great threat to the long-term survival known from one population on Guam open agricultural fields and other areas of these snails; enough intact forest with and from one population on Rota. prone to erosion were seeded with healthy populations of snails would The fragile tree snail is currently tangantangan (Leucaena leucocephala) support dispersal back into newly threatened by habitat loss and by the U.S. Military. Tangantangan regrown forest canopy. However, the modification and by predation from grows as a single species stand with no presence of nonnative weeds such as nonnative predatory snails and substantial understory. The mile-a-minute vine (Mikania micrantha) flatworms. Large numbers of Philippine microclimatic condition is dry with may reduce the likelihood that native deer (Cervus mariannus) (Guam and little accumulation of leaf litter humus forests will re-establish in areas Rota), pigs (Sus scrofa) (Guam), water and is unsuitable as Guam tree snail damaged by the hurricanes. This loss of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) (Guam), and habitat. In addition, native forests habitat to storms is greatly exacerbated cattle (Bos taurus) (Rota) directly alter cannot reestablish and grow where this by expanding agriculture. Agricultural the understory plant community and nonnative weed has become established. plots on Tutuila have spread from low overall forest microclimate, making it Because all of the threats occur elevation up to middle and some high unsuitable for tree snails. Predation by rangewide and have a significant effect elevations, greatly reducing the forested the nonnative rosy carnivore snail on the survival of this snail species, area and thus reducing the resilience of (Euglandina rosea) and the Manokwar they are high in magnitude, and the native forests and populations of native flatworm (Platydemus manokwari) is a species has a relatively high likelihood snails. These reductions also increase serious threat to the survival of the of extinction. The threats are also the likelihood that future storms will fragile tree snail. Field observations ongoing and thus are imminent. lead to the extinction of populations or have established that the rosy carnivore Therefore, we assigned this species an species that rely on the remaining forest snail and the Manokwar flatworm will LPN of 2. canopy. In an effort to eradicate the readily feed on native Pacific island tree Humped tree snail (Partula gibba)— giant African snail (Achatina fulica), the snails, including the Partulidae, such as The following summary is based on nonnative rosy carnivore snail those of the Mariana Islands. The rosy information contained in our files. No (Euglandina rosea) was introduced in carnivore snail has caused the new information was provided in the 1980. The rosy carnivore snail has extirpation of many populations and petition we received on May 11, 2004. spread throughout the main island of species of native snails throughout the A tree-dwelling species, the humped Tutuila. Numerous studies show that Pacific islands. The Manokwar flatworm tree snail is a member of the Partulidae the rosy carnivore snail feeds on has also contributed to the decline of family of snails, and was originally endemic island snails including the sisi, native tree snails, in part due to its known from the island of Guam and the and is a major agent in their declines ability to ascend into trees and bushes Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana and extirpations. At present, the major that support native snails. Areas with Islands (islands of Rota, Aguiguan, threat to long-term survival of the native populations of the flatworm usually lack Tinian, Saipan, Anatahan, Sarigan, snail fauna in American Samoa is partulid tree snails or have declining Alamagan, and Pagan). Until recently, predation by nonnative predatory snails. numbers of snails. Because all of the the species was known from a total of These threats are ongoing and are threats occur rangewide and have a 14 populations on the islands of Guam, therefore imminent. As the threats occur significant effect on the survival of the Rota, Aguiguan, Sarigan, Saipan, throughout the entire range of the fragile tree snail, they are high in Alamagan, and Pagan. However, new species and have a severe effect on the magnitude, and the species has a (2011) information indicates that P. survival of the snails, they are of a high relatively high likelihood of extinction. gibba may be found only on the islands magnitude. Therefore we assigned this The threats are also ongoing and thus of Guam, Saipan, Sarigan, and Pagan. species an LPN of 2. are imminent. Therefore, we assigned This information also suggests that the Rosemont talussnail (Sonorella this species an LPN of 2. individuals identified as P. gibba on rosemontensis)—We continue to find Guam tree snail (Partula radiolata)— Rota may be a different species. that listing these species is warranted The following summary is based on Although still the most widely but precluded as of the date of information contained in our files. No distributed tree snail endemic in the publication of this notice. However, we new information was provided in the Mariana Islands, remaining population are working on a proposed listing rule petition we received on May 11, 2004. sizes are often small. that we expect to publish prior to A tree-dwelling species, the Guam tree This species is currently threatened making the next annual resubmitted snail is a member of the Partulidae by habitat loss and modification and by petition 12-month finding. In the course family of snails and is endemic to the predation from nonnative predatory of preparing the proposed listing rule, island of Guam. Requiring cool and snails, flat worms, and rats. Throughout we are continuing to monitor new shaded native forest habitat, the species the Mariana Islands, feral ungulates information about this species’ status so is now known from 22 populations on (pigs (Sus scrofa), Philippine deer that we can make prompt use of our Guam. (Cervus mariannus), cattle (Bos taurus), authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the This species is primarily threatened water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), and case of an emergency posing a by predation from nonnative predatory goats (Capra hircus)) have caused severe significant risk to the species. snails, flatworms, and rats. In addition, damage to native forest vegetation by Fragile tree snail (Samoana fragilis)— the species is also threatened by habitat browsing directly on plants, causing The following summary is based on loss and degradation. Predation by the erosion, and retarding forest growth and information contained in our files. No nonnative rosy carnivore snail regeneration. This in turn reduces the new information was provided in the (Euglandina rosea) and the nonnative quantity and quality of forested habitat petition we received on May 11, 2004. Manokwar flatworm (Platydemus for the humped tree snail. Currently, A tree-dwelling species, the fragile tree manokwari) is a serious threat to the populations of feral ungulates are found snail is a member of the Partulidae survival of the Guam tree snail (see on the islands of Guam (deer, pigs, and family of snails, and is endemic to the summary for the fragile tree snail, water buffalo), Rota (deer and cattle), islands of Guam and Rota (Mariana above). In addition, predation by rats Aguiguan (goats), Saipan (deer, pigs, Islands). Requiring cool and shaded (Rattus spp.) is a serious and ongoing and cattle), Alamagan (goats, pigs, and

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cattle), and Pagan (cattle, goats, and predatory snail species or rats, or to occurring throughout the range of the pigs). Goats were eradicated from reduce habitat loss, are being species uniformly and not all Sarigan in 1998, and the humped tree undertaken. The magnitude of threats is populations would likely be affected snail has increased in abundance on high because they result in direct simultaneously by the known threats. that island, likely in response to the mortality and significant population We have no site-specific information removal of all the goats. However, the declines to Langford’s tree snail indicating that grazing is currently population of humped tree snails on rangewide. A survey of Aguiguan in ongoing in or adjacent to occupied Anatahan is likely extirpated due to the November 2006 failed to find any live habitats and catastrophic wildfire is not massive volcanic explosions of the Langford’s tree snails. These threats are known to be an imminent threat. island beginning in 2003 and still also ongoing and thus are imminent. Accordingly, threats are nonimminent. continuing, and the resulting loss of up Therefore, we assigned this species an Therefore, we retain an LPN of 11 for to 95 percent of the vegetation on the LPN of 2. this species. island. Predation by the nonnative rosy Tutuila tree snail (Eua zebrina)—The Page springsnail (Pyrgulopsis carnivore snail (Euglandina rosea), and following summary is based on morrisoni)—See above in ‘‘Listing the nonnative Manokwar flatworm information contained in our files. No Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The (Platydemus manokwari) is a serious new information was provided in the above summary is based on information threat to the survival of the humped tree petition we received on May 11, 2004. contained in our files. A tree-dwelling species, the Tutuila tree snail (see summary for the fragile tree Insects snail, above). In addition, predation by snail is a member of the Partulidae rats (Rattus spp.) is a serious and family of snails, and is endemic to Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus ongoing threat to the humped tree snail. American Samoa. The species is known anthracinus)—The following summary The magnitude of threats is high from 32 populations on the islands of is based on information contained in because these nonnative predators cause Tutuila, Nuusetoga, and Ofu. our files and in the petition that we significant population declines to the This species is currently threatened received for this species on March 23, humped tree snail rangewide. These by habitat loss and modification and by 2009. Hylaeus anthracinus is a species threats are ongoing and thus are predation from nonnative predatory of Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (family imminent. Therefore, we assigned this snails and rats. All live Tutuila tree Colletidae) found in certain coastal species an LPN of 2. snails were found on understory areas and dry lowland forests containing Langford’s tree snail (Partula vegetation beneath remaining intact native plant communities on the islands langfordi)—The following summary is forest canopy. No snails were found in of Hawaii, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Maui, based on information contained in our areas bordering agricultural plots or in Molokai, and Oahu. Hylaeus files. No new information was provided forested areas that were severely anthracinus is currently known from 13 in the petition we received on May 11, damaged by three hurricanes (1987, populations comprised of an unknown 2004. A tree-dwelling species, 1990, and 1991). (See summary for the number of individuals. This species is Langford’s tree snail is a member of the sisi snail, above, regarding impacts of threatened by ongoing habitat loss and Partulidae family of snails, and is nonnative weeds and of the rosy modification due to the effects of feral known from one population on the carnivore snail.) Rats (Rattus spp.) have ungulates, nonnative plants, wildfire, island of Aguiguan. also been shown to devastate snail and climate change. Hylaeus This species is currently threatened populations, and rat-chewed snail shells anthracinus is directly threatened by by habitat loss and modification and by have been found at sites where the predation from yellowjacket wasps and predation from nonnative predatory Tutuila snail occurs. At present, the several species of nonnative ants. snails. In the 1930s, the island of major threat to the long-term survival of Additional indirect threats to the Aguiguan was mostly cleared of native the native snail fauna in American species include the limited number of forests to support sugar cane and Samoa is predation by nonnative and small size of populations, pineapple production. The abandoned predatory snails and rats. The competition from European honey bees, fields and airstrip are now overgrown magnitude of threats is high because the possibility of habitat destruction with nonnative weeds. The remaining they result in direct mortality and from stochastic and catastrophic events, native forest understory has greatly significant population declines to the and a lack of regulatory mechanisms suffered from large and uncontrolled Tutuila tree snail rangewide. The threats affording protection to the species. populations of alien goats and the are also ongoing and thus are imminent. Some Hylaeus anthracinus invasion of weeds. Goats (Capra hircus) Therefore, we assigned this species an populations occur in areas that are have caused severe damage to native LPN of 2. managed for one or more of the threats forest vegetation by browsing directly Huachuca springsnail (Pyrgulopsis affecting habitat; however no population on plants, causing erosion, and thompsoni)—The following is based on is entirely protected from impacts to retarding forest growth and information contained in our files. No habitat, and predation on the species is regeneration. This, in turn, reduces the new information was provided in the not currently managed at any quantity and quality of forested habitat petition received on May 11, 2004. The population site. We consider the threats for Langford’s tree snail. Predation by Huachuca springsnail inhabits to H. anthracinus to be high in the nonnative rosy carnivore snail approximately 19 springs in magnitude because their severity (Euglandina rosea) and by the southeastern Arizona and two springs in endangers the species with a high Manokwar flatworm (Platydemus Sonora, Mexico. The springsnail is likelihood of extinction throughout its manokwari) (see summary for the fragile typically found in shallow water entire range. The threats to H. tree snail, above) is also a serious threat habitats, often in rocky seeps at the anthracinus are imminent, because they to the survival of Langford’s tree snail. spring source. Potential threats include are ongoing. Therefore, we have In addition, predation by rats (Rattus habitat modification and destruction assigned this species an LPN of 2. spp.) is a serious and ongoing threat to through catastrophic wildfire and Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus Langford’s tree snail. All of the threats unmanaged grazing at the landscape assimulans)—The following summary is are occurring rangewide, and no efforts scale. Overall, the threats are low in based on information contained in our to control or eradicate the nonnative magnitude because threats are not files and in the petition that we received

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for this species on March 23, 2009. the possibility of habitat destruction Hylaeus kuakea is a species of Hawaiian Hylaeus assimulans is a species of from stochastic and catastrophic events, yellow-faced bee (family Colletidae) Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (family and a lack of regulatory mechanisms found in lowland mesic forests on the Colletidae) found in certain coastal affording protection to the species. island of Oahu. Hylaeus kuakea is areas and dry lowland forests containing Both of the Hylaeus facilis currently known from two populations native plant communities on the islands populations occur in areas that are comprised of an unknown number of of Hawaii, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Maui, managed for one or more of the threats individuals. This species is threatened Molokai, and Oahu. Hylaeus assimulans affecting habitat; however no population by ongoing habitat loss and is currently known from 13 populations is entirely protected from impacts to modification due to the effects of feral comprised of an unknown number of habitat, and predation upon the species ungulates, nonnative plants, wildfire, individuals. This species is threatened is not currently managed within any and climate change. Hylaeus kuakea is by ongoing habitat loss and population site. We consider the threats directly threatened by predation from modification due to the effects of feral to H. facilis to be high in magnitude yellowjacket wasps and several species ungulates, nonnative plants, wildfire, because their severity endangers the of nonnative ants. Additional indirect and climate change. Hylaeus assimulans species with a high likelihood of threats to the species include the is directly threatened by predation from extinction throughout its entire range. limited number of and small size of yellowjacket wasps and several species The threats to H. facilis are imminent, populations, competition from of nonnative ants. Additional indirect because they are ongoing. Therefore, we European honey bees, the possibility of threats to the species include the have assigned this species an LPN of 2. habitat destruction from stochastic and limited number of and small size of Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus catastrophic events, and a lack of populations, competition from hilaris)—The following summary is regulatory mechanisms affording European honey bees, the possibility of based on information contained in our protection to the species. habitat destruction from stochastic and files and in the petition that we received Both Hylaeus kuakea populations catastrophic events, and a lack of for this species on March 23, 2009. occur in areas that are managed for one regulatory mechanisms affording Hylaeus hilaris is a cleptoparasitic or more of the threats affecting habitat; protection to the species. species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bee however no population is entirely Some Hylaeus assimulans (family Colletidae) with a historical protected from impacts to habitat, and populations occur in areas that are range in coastal habitat on the islands of predation on the species is not currently managed for one or more of the threats Lanai, Maui, and Molokai. Now managed within either population site. affecting habitat; however no population extirpated from the islands of Lanai and We consider the threats to H. kuakea to is entirely protected from impacts to Maui, H. hilaris is currently known from be high in magnitude because their habitat, and predation on the species is a single population on Molokai severity endangers the species with a not currently managed at any comprised of an unknown number of high likelihood of extinction throughout population site. We consider the threats individuals. This species is threatened its entire range. The threats to H. kuakea to H. assimulans to be high in by ongoing habitat loss and are imminent, because they are ongoing. magnitude because their severity modification due to the effects of feral Therefore, we have assigned this species endangers the species with a high ungulates, nonnative plants, wildfire, an LPN of 2. likelihood of extinction throughout its and climate change. Hylaeus hilaris is Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus entire range. The threats to H. directly threatened by predation from longiceps)—The following summary is assimulans are imminent, because they yellowjacket wasps and several species based on information contained in our are ongoing. Therefore, we have of nonnative ants. Additional indirect files and in the petition that we received assigned this species an LPN of 2. threats to the species include the for this species on March 23, 2009. Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus limited number of and small size of its Hylaeus longiceps is a species of facilis)—The following summary is population, competition from European Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (family based on information contained in our honey bees, the possibility of habitat Colletidae) found in certain coastal files and in the petition that we received destruction from stochastic and areas and dry lowland forest containing for this species on March 23, 2009. catastrophic events, and a lack of native plant communities on the islands Hylaeus facilis is a species of Hawaiian regulatory mechanisms affording of Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu. yellow-faced bee (family Colletidae) protection to the species. Hylaeus longiceps is currently known with a wide historical range of native The Hylaeus hilaris population occurs from six populations comprised of an plant community habitat including within a private preserve that is unknown number of individuals. This coastal areas, lowland dry and wet managed for one or more of the threats species is threatened by ongoing habitat forests, and montane mesic forests on affecting habitat; however the loss and modification due to the effects the islands of Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and population is not entirely protected of feral ungulates, nonnative plants, Oahu. Now extirpated from the islands from impacts to habitat, and predation wildfire, and climate change. Hylaeus of Lanai and Maui, H. facilis is currently upon the species is not currently longiceps is directly threatened by known from two populations comprised managed at all. We consider the threats predation from yellowjacket wasps and of an unknown number of individuals. to H. hilaris to be high in magnitude several species of nonnative ants. This species is threatened by ongoing because their severity endangers the Additional indirect threats to the habitat loss and modification due to the species with a high likelihood of species include the limited number of effects of feral ungulates, nonnative extinction throughout its entire range. and small size of populations, plants, wildfire, and climate change. The threats to H. hilaris are imminent, competition from European honey bees, Hylaeus facilis is directly threatened by because they are ongoing. Therefore, we the possibility of habitat destruction predation from yellowjacket wasps and have assigned this species an LPN of 2. from stochastic and catastrophic events, several species of nonnative ants. Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus and a lack of regulatory mechanisms Additional indirect threats to the kuakea)—The following summary is affording protection to the species. species include the limited number of based on information contained in our Some Hylaeus longiceps populations and small size of populations, files and in the petition that we received occur in areas that are managed for one competition from European honey bees, for this species on March 23, 2009. or more of the threats affecting habitat;

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however no population is entirely pupation occurs at the base of the plant. Because the threat of parasitism and protected from impacts to habitat, and Hermes copper butterflies have one predation by nonnative insects occurs predation on the species is not currently flight period occurring in mid-May to rangewide and can cause significant managed within any population site. We early-July, depending on weather population declines to this species, they consider the threats to H. longiceps to be conditions and elevation. We estimate are high in magnitude. The threats are high in magnitude because their severity there were at least 57 known separate imminent because they are ongoing. endangers the species with a high historical populations throughout the Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 3 for likelihood of extinction throughout its species’ range since the species was first this subspecies. entire range. The threats to H. longiceps described. Of the 57 known Hermes Mariana wandering butterfly (Vagrans are imminent, because they are ongoing. copper butterfly populations, 17 are egistina)—The following summary is Therefore, we have assigned this species extant, 28 are believed to have been based on information contained in our an LPN of 2. extirpated, and 12 are of unknown files. No new information was provided Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus status. in the petition we received on May 11, mana)—The following summary is Primary threats to the Hermes copper 2004. The Mariana wandering butterfly based on information contained in our butterfly are megafires (large wildfires), is a nymphalid butterfly species that files and in the petition that we received and small and isolated populations. feeds upon a single host plant species, for this species on March 23, 2009. Secondary threats include increased Maytenus thompsonii. Originally known Hylaeus mana is a species of Hawaiian wildfire frequency that results in habitat from and endemic to the islands of yellow-faced bee (family Colletidae) loss, and combined impacts of existing Guam and Rota, the species is now found in lowland mesic forests on the development, possible future (limited) known from one population on Rota. island of Oahu. Hylaeus mana is development, existing dispersal barriers, This species is currently threatened by currently known from a single and megafires that result in nonnative predation and parasitism. population comprised of an unknown fragmentation of habitat. The Hermes The Mariana wandering butterfly is number of individuals. This species is copper butterfly occupies scattered likely predated by nonnative ants and threatened by ongoing habitat loss and areas of sage scrub and chaparral habitat parasitized by native and nonnative modification due to the effects of feral in an arid region susceptible to wildfires parasitoids. Because the threats of ungulates, nonnative plants, wildfire, of increasing frequency and size. The parasitism and predation by nonnative and climate change. Hylaeus mana is likelihood that individuals of the insects occur rangewide and can cause directly threatened by predation from species will be burned as a result of significant population declines to this yellowjacket wasps and several species catastrophic wildfires, combined with species, leading to a relatively high of nonnative ants. Additional indirect the isolation and small size of extant likelihood of extinction, they are high in threats to the species include the populations makes the Hermes copper magnitude. These threats are imminent limited number of and small size of butterfly particularly vulnerable to because they are ongoing. Therefore, we populations, competition from population extirpation rangewide. assigned an LPN of 2 to this species. European honey bees, the possibility of Overall, the threats that the Hermes Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly habitat destruction from stochastic and copper butterfly faces are high in (Atlantea tulita)—The following catastrophic events, and a lack of magnitude because the major threats summary is based on information in our regulatory mechanisms affording (particularly mortality due to wildfire files and in the petition we received on protection to the species. and increased wildfire frequency) occur Feburary 29, 2009. The Puerto Rican The Hylaeus mana population occurs throughout all of the species’ range and harlequin butterfly is endemic to Puerto in an area that is managed for one or are likely to result in adverse impacts to Rico, and one of the four species more of the threats affecting habitat; the species. The threats are endemic to the Greater Antilles within however the population is not entirely nonimminent overall because the the genus Atlantea. This species occurs protected from impacts to habitat, and presence of wildfire in the Hermes within the subtropical moist forest life predation on the species is not currently copper butterfly habitat occurs on a zone in the northern karst region (i.e., managed at all. We consider the threats sporadic basis and we do not have the municipality of Quebradillas) of Puerto to H. mana to be high in magnitude ability to predict when wildfires will Rico, and in the subtropical wet forest because their severity endangers the occur. This species faces high- (i.e., Maricao Commonwealth Forest, species with a high likelihood of magnitude nonimminent threats; municipality of Maricao). The Puerto extinction throughout its entire range. therefore, we assigned this species an Rican harlequin butterfly has only been The threats to H. mana are imminent, LPN of 5. found utilizing Oplonia spinosa (prickly because they are ongoing. Therefore, we Mariana eight spot butterfly bush) as its host plant (i.e., plant used have assigned this species an LPN of 2. (Hypolimnas octucula mariannensis)— for laying the eggs, also serves as a food Hermes copper butterfly The following summary is based on source for development of the larvae). (Hermelycaena [Lycaena] hermes)—The information contained in our files. No The primary threats to the Puerto following summary is based on new information was provided in the Rican harlequin butterfly are information contained in our files. petition we received on May 11, 2004. development, habitat fragmentation, and Hermes copper butterfly primarily The Mariana eight spot butterfly is a other natural or manmade factors such occurs in San Diego County, California, nymphalid butterfly species that feeds as human-induced fires, use of and a few records of the species have upon two host plants, Procris herbicides and pesticides, vegetation been documented in Baja California, pedunculata and Elatostema calcareum. management, and climate change. These Mexico. The species inhabits coastal Endemic to the islands of Guam and factors would substantially affect the sage scrub and southern mixed Saipan, the species is now only known distribution and abundance of the chaparral and is dependent on its larval from 10 populations on Guam. This species, as well as its habitat. In host plant, Rhamnus crocea (spiny species is currently threatened by addition, the lack of effective redberry), to complete its lifecycle. predation and parasitism. The Mariana enforcement makes the existing policies Adult Hermes copper butterflies lay eight spot butterfly has extremely high and regulations inadequate for the single eggs on spiny redberry stems mortality of eggs and larvae due to protection of the species’ habitat. These where they hatch and feed until predation by nonnative ants and wasps. threats are high in magnitude and

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imminent because known populations occurs at the original location or if it has entrance to the cave. Although the cave occur in areas that are subject to been extirpated from the site by the is protected by a cooperative development, increased traffic, and closure of the cave entrance. Other management agreement with the increased road maintenance and caves in the vicinity of this cave were landowner, the upper entrance has not construction. Such threats directly affect surveyed for the species during 1995 been restored, and the bats have not populations during all life stages. We and 1996, and only one additional site returned to the cave. A new location for expect these threats to continue and was found to support the Clifton Cave the species was discovered during a potentially increase in the foreseeable beetle. The limestone caves in which biological inventory of Foster Cave (also future. Therefore, we assigned a LPN of the Clifton Cave beetle is found provide known as Darnell Cave). One specimen 2 to this species. a unique and fragile environment that of the species was found during that Sequatchie caddisfly (Glyphopsyche supports a variety of species that have survey. Foster Cave is on a preserve sequatchie)—The following summary is evolved to survive and reproduce under owned and managed by the Tennessee based on information in our files. No the demanding conditions found in cave Department of Conservation. In 2006, new information was provided in the ecosystems. The limited distribution of specimens of this species were petition we received on May 11, 2004. the species makes it vulnerable to discovered in Bellamy Cave and in The Sequatchie caddisfly is known from isolated events that would only have a Darnell Spring Cave (part of the same two spring runs that emerge from caves minimal effect on more wide-ranging cave complex as Foster Cave). All of in Marion County, Tennessee—Owen insects. Events such as toxic chemical these sites are in close proximity to each Spring Branch (the type locality) and spills or discharges of large amounts of other. Bellamy Cave is owned and Martin Spring run in the Battle Creek polluted water, or indirect impacts from managed by the Tennessee Wildlife system. In 1998, biologists estimated off-site construction activities, closure Resources Agency (TWRA). Both Foster population sizes at 500 to 5,000 of entrances, alteration of entrances, or Cave and Bellamy Cave were first individuals for Owen Spring Branch the creation of new entrances, could acquired and protected by The Nature and 2 to 10 times higher at Martin have serious adverse impacts on this Conservancy and later transferred to the Spring, due to the greater amount of species. Therefore, the magnitude of State for long-term protection and apparently suitable habitat. In spite of threat is high for this species. The management. The threats are greater amounts of suitable habitat at the threats are nonimminent because there nonimminent because there are no Martin Spring run, Sequatchie are no known projects planned that known projects planned that would caddisflies are more difficult to find at would affect the species in the near affect the species in the next few years. this site, and in 2001 (the most recent future. We therefore have assigned an Because the species occurs at four survey), the Sequatchie caddisfly was LPN of 5 to this species. locations and receives some protection ‘‘abundant’’ at the Owen Spring Branch Coleman cave beetle under a cooperative management location, while only two individuals (Pseudanophthalmus colemanensis)— agreement and protective ownership, were observed at the Martin Spring. The following summary is based upon the magnitude of threats is moderate to Threats to the Sequatchie caddisfly information contained in our files. No low. Thus, we have assigned an LPN of include siltation, point and nonpoint new information was provided in the 11 to this species. discharges from municipal and petition we received on April 20, 2010. Icebox Cave beetle industrial activities, and introduction of The Coleman cave beetle is a small, (Pseudanophthalmus frigidus)—The toxicants during episodic events. These eyeless, reddish-brown, predatory insect following summary is based upon threats, coupled with the extremely that feeds upon small cave information contained in our files. No limited distribution of the species, its invertebrates. It is cave dependent and new information was provided in the apparent small population size, the is not found outside the cave petition we received on May 11, 2004. limited amount of occupied habitat, environment. It is only known from Icebox Cave beetle is a small, eyeless, ease of accessibility, and the annual life three Tennessee caves. The limestone reddish-brown, predatory insect that cycle of the species, are all factors that caves in which this species is found feeds upon small cave invertebrates. It leave the Sequatchie caddisfly provide a unique and fragile is not found outside the cave vulnerable to extirpation. Therefore, the environment that support a variety of environment and is only known from magnitude of the threat is high. These species that have evolved to survive and one privately owned Kentucky cave. threats are gradual and not imminent. reproduce under the demanding The limestone cave in which this Based on high-magnitude and conditions found in cave ecosystems. species is found provides a unique and nonimminent threats, we assigned this Caves and the species that are fragile environment that supports a species an LPN of 5. completely dependent upon them variety of species that have evolved to Clifton Cave beetle receive the energy that forms the basis survive and reproduce under the (Pseudanophthalmus caecus)—The of the cave food chain from outside the demanding conditions found in cave following summary is based upon cave. This energy can be in the form of ecosystems. The species has not been information contained in our files. No bat guano deposited by cave-dependent observed since it was originally new information was provided in the bats, large or small woody debris collected, but species experts believe petition we received on May 11, 2004. washed or blown into the cave, or tiny that it may still exist in the cave in low Clifton Cave beetle is a small, eyeless, bits of organic matter that are carried numbers. The limited distribution of the reddish-brown, predatory insect that into the cave by water through small species makes it vulnerable to isolated feeds upon small cave invertebrates. It cracks in the rocks overlaying the cave. events that would only have a minimal is cave dependent, and is not found The Coleman cave beetle was effect on more wide-ranging insects. outside the cave environment. Clifton originally known only from privately Events such as toxic chemical spills or Cave beetle is only known from two owned Coleman Cave in Montgomery discharges of large amounts of polluted privately owned Kentucky caves. Soon County. This cave formerly supported a water, or indirect impacts from off-site after the species was first collected in colony of endangered gray bats (Myotis construction activities, closure of 1963 in one cave, the cave entrance was grisescens). The bats have abandoned entrances, alteration of entrances, or the enclosed due to road construction. We this cave because of air flow changes in creation of new entrances, could have do not know whether the species still the cave caused by closure of an upper serious adverse impacts on this species.

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Therefore, the magnitude of threat is eyeless, reddish-brown, predatory insect would affect the species in the near high for this species because it is that feeds upon cave invertebrates. It is future. We therefore have assigned an limited in distribution and the threats not found outside the cave environment LPN of 5 to this species. would result in a high level of mortality and is only known from two privately Orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly or reduced reproductive capacity. The owned Kentucky caves. (Megalagrion xanthomelas)—The threats are nonimminent because there The limestone caves in which this following summary is based on are no known projects planned that species is found provide a unique and information contained in our files. No would affect the species in the near fragile environment that supports a new information was provided in the future. We therefore have assigned an variety of species that have evolved to petition we received on May 11, 2004. LPN of 5 to this species. survive and reproduce under the The orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly is Inquirer Cave beetle demanding conditions found in cave a stream-dwelling species endemic to (Pseudanophthalmus inquisitor)—The ecosystems. The limited distribution of the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai, Oahu, following summary is based upon the species makes it vulnerable to Molokai, Maui, Lanai, and Hawaii. The information contained in our files. No isolated events that would only have a species no longer is found on Kauai, and new information was provided in the minimal effect on more wide-ranging is now restricted to 16 populations on petition we received on May 11, 2004. insects. Events such as toxic chemical the islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, The Inquirer Cave beetle is a fairly spills or discharges of large amounts of Lanai, and Hawaii. This species is small, eyeless, reddish-brown, predatory polluted water, or indirect impacts from threatened by predation from nonnative insect that feeds upon small cave off-site construction activities, closure aquatic species such as fish and invertebrates. It is not found outside the of entrances, alteration of entrances, or predacious insects, and by habitat loss cave environment and is only known the creation of new entrances could through dewatering of streams and from one privately owned Tennessee have serious adverse impacts on this invasion by nonnative plants. Nonnative cave. species. The magnitude of threat is high fish and insects prey on the naiads of The limestone cave in which this for this species, because it is limited in the damselfly, and loss of water reduces species is found provides a unique and distribution and the threats would have the amount of suitable naiad habitat. fragile environment that supports a severe negative impacts on the species. Invasive plants (e.g., California grass variety of species that have evolved to The threats are nonimminent because (Brachiaria mutica)) also contribute to survive and reproduce under the there are no known projects planned loss of habitat by forming dense, demanding conditions found in cave that would affect the species in the near monotypic stands that completely ecosystems. The species was last future. We therefore have assigned an eliminate open water. Nonnative fish observed in 2006. The limited LPN of 5 to this species. and plants are found in all the streams distribution of the species makes it Tatum Cave beetle where orangeblack Hawaiian vulnerable to isolated events that would (Pseudanophthalmus parvus)—The damselflies occur, except at the Oahu only have a minimal effect on more following summary is based upon location, where there are no nonnative wide-ranging insects. The area around information contained in our files. No fish. Predation and habitat loss are the only known site for the species is in new information was provided in the ongoing and therefore imminent; they a rapidly expanding urban area. The petition we received on May 11, 2004. are of moderate magnitude, because entrance to the cave is protected by the Tatum Cave beetle is a small, eyeless, they affect the survival of the species to landowner through a cooperative reddish-brown, predatory insect that varying degrees throughout the species’ management agreement with the feeds upon cave invertebrates. It is not range. We therefore assign an LPN of 8 Service, The Nature Conservancy and found outside the cave environment and to this species. Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency; is only known from one privately Stephan’s riffle beetle (Heterelmis however, a sinkhole that drains into the owned Kentucky cave. stephani)—See above in ‘‘Listing cave system is located away from the The limestone cave in which this Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The protected entrance and is near a species is found provides a unique and above summary is based on information highway. Events such as toxic chemical fragile environment that supports a contained in our files. spills or discharges of large amounts of variety of species that have evolved to Dakota skipper (Hesperia dacotae)— polluted water or indirect impacts from survive and reproduce under the We continue to find that listing this off-site construction activities could demanding conditions found in cave species is warranted but precluded as of adversely affect the species and the cave ecosystems. The species has not been the date of publication of this notice. habitat. The magnitude of threat is high observed since 1965, but species experts However, we are working on a proposed for this species because it is limited in believe that it still exists in low listing rule that we expect to publish distribution and the threats would have numbers. The limited distribution of the prior to making the next annual severe negative impacts on its continued species makes it vulnerable to isolated resubmitted petition 12-month finding. existence. The threats are nonimminent events that would only have a minimal In the course of preparing the proposed because there are no known projects effect on more wide-ranging insects. listing rule, we are continuing to planned that would affect the species in Events such as toxic chemical spills or monitor new information about this the near future and it receives some discharges of large amounts of polluted species’ status so that we can make protection under a cooperative water, or indirect impacts from off-site prompt use of our authority under management agreement. We therefore construction activities, closure of Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an have assigned an LPN of 5 to this entrances, alteration of entrances, or the emergency posing a significant risk to species. creation of new entrances, could have the species. Louisville Cave beetle serious adverse impacts on this species. Meltwater lednian stonefly (Lednia (Pseudanophthalmus troglodytes)—The The magnitude of threat is high for this tumana)—The following summary is following summary is based upon species, because its limited numbers based on information contained in our information contained in our files. No mean that any threats could severely files and in the petition we received on new information was provided in the affect its continued existence. The July 30, 2007. This species is an aquatic petition we received on May 11, 2004. threats are nonimminent because there insect in the order Plecoptera The Louisville Cave beetle is a small, are no known projects planned that (stoneflies). Stoneflies are primarily

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associated with clean, cool streams and index counts. If assumptions are correct materials near the feature. The rivers. Eggs and nymphs (juveniles) of and unsurveyed habitat is included, magnitude of threats is now considered the meltwater lednian stonefly are then the total number of adults at all low to moderate based on observations found in high-elevation, alpine, and survey sites might be 3,000 to 4,000. made during field visits to Pickle Pit in subalpine streams, most typically in Habitat loss and fragmentation and November 2011 and March 2012. For locations closely linked to glacial lack of fire and disturbances to create example, Pickle Pit is receiving some runoff. The species is generally open habitat conditions are serious protection because it is in a mitigation restricted to streams with mean summer threats; remaining patches of suitable preserve for the golden-cheeked warbler water temperature less than 10 °C (50 habitat are disjunct and isolated. (Dendroica chrysoparia). While °F). Adults emerge from the nymph Populations occupy relatively small adequate fencing has not been stage and mate in streamside vegetation. patches of habitat and are small and completed, we did not see trails or other The only known meltwater lednian isolated; individuals have difficulty signs of recent human use in the stonefly occurrences are within Glacier dispersing between suitable habitats. immediate vicinity of the cave. Also, National Park (NP), Montana. These factors pose serious threats to the despite the fact that this preserve is not Climate change, and the associated species. Although significant progress in receiving red-imported fire ant effects of glacier loss (with glaciers implementing prescribed fire has treatment, we did not see many red- predicted to be gone by 2030)— occurred over the last 10 years through imported fire ants in the immediate including reduced streamflows, and collaborative partnerships and the Lake area. Because fire ants have been found increased water temperatures—are Wales Ridge Prescribed Fire Team, a and fencing to eliminate human use has expected to significantly reduce the backlog of long-unburned habitat within not been completed, the threats are occurrence of populations and extent of conservation areas remains. ongoing (imminent). Thus, we assigned suitable habitat for the species in Overcollection and pesticide use are this species a LPN of 8. Glacier NP. In addition, the existing additional concerns. Because this regulatory mechanisms do not address species is narrowly distributed with Crustaceans environmental changes due to global specific habitat requirements and small Anchialine pool shrimp (Metabetaeus climate change. We announced populations, any of the threats could lohena)—The following summary is candidate status for the meltwater have a significant impact on the survival based on information contained in our lednian stonefly in a warranted-but of the species, leading to a relatively files. No new information was provided precluded 12-month petition finding high likelihood of extinction. Therefore, in the petition we received on May 11, published on April 5, 2011 (76 FR the magnitude of threats is high. 2004. Metabetaeus lohena is an 18684). We have assigned the species an Although the majority of its historical anchialine pool-inhabiting species of LPN of 5 based on three criteria: (1) The range has been lost, degraded, and shrimp belonging to the family high magnitude of threat, which is fragmented, numerous sites are Alpheidae. This species was originally projected to substantially reduce the protected, and land managers are thought to be endemic to the Hawaiian amount of suitable habitat relative to the implementing prescribed fire at some Islands with populations on the islands species’ current range; (2) the low sites; these actions are expected to of Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii. Recent imminence of the threat based on the restore habitat and help reduce threats information indicates this species may lack of documented evidence that and have already helped stabilize and also occur in Rapa Nui, a special climate change is affecting stonefly improve the populations. Habitat territory of Chile. The current status of habitat; and (3) the taxonomic status of management at some sites may be this species in Rapa Nui and the the species, which is a full species. forestalling the threat of vegetation primary threats there are unknown at Highlands tiger beetle (Cicindela encroaching into bare sand areas needed this time. highlandensis)—The following by the beetle. While the species is The primary threats to this species in summary is based on information inherently vulnerable to extinction due Hawaii are predation by fish (which do contained in our files. No new to its low population sizes, restricted not naturally occur in the pools information was provided in the range, small and isolated habitat inhabited by this species) and habitat petition we received on May 11, 2004. patches, and difficulty in dispersal loss from degradation (primarily from The Highlands tiger beetle is narrowly between suitable habitats, the illegal trash dumping). The pools where distributed and restricted to areas of immediacy of these threats is unknown. this species occurs on the islands of bare sand within scrub and sandhill on Thus, overall, the threats are Maui and Hawaii are located within ancient sand dunes of the Lake Wales nonimminent. Therefore, we assigned State Natural Area Reserves (NAR) and Ridge in Polk and Highlands Counties, the Highlands tiger beetle an LPN of 5. in a National Park. Both the State NARs Florida. Adult tiger beetles have been and the National Park prohibit the most recently found at 40 sites at the Arachnids collection of the species and the core of the Lake Wales Ridge. In 2004– Warton’s cave meshweaver (Cicurina disturbance of the pools. However, 2005 surveys, a total of 1,574 adults wartoni)—The Warton’s Cave enforcement of collection and were found at 40 sites, compared with meshweaver is an eyeless, cave- disturbance prohibitions is difficult, and 643 adults at 31 sites in 1996, 928 adults dwelling, unpigmented, 0.23-inch-long the negative effects from the at 31 sites in 1995, and 742 adults at 21 invertebrate known only from female introduction of fish are extensive and sites in 1993. Of the 40 sites in the specimens. This meshweaver is known happen quickly. On Oahu, four pools 2004–2005 surveys with one or more to occur in only one cave (Pickle Pit) in are located in a National Wildlife Refuge adults, results ranged from 3 sites with Travis County, Texas. Primary threats to and are protected from collection and large populations of over 100 adults, to the species and its habitat are predation disturbance to the pool; however, on 13 sites with fewer than 10 adults. and competition from red-imported fire State-owned land where the species Results from a limited removal study at ants, surface and subsurface effects from occurs, there is no protection from four sites and similar studies suggested polluted runoff from an adjacent collection or disturbance of the pools. that the actual population size at some subdivision, unauthorized entry into the Because of the limited number of sites survey sites can be as much as two area surrounding the cave, and trash where this species occurs, collection or times as high as indicated by the visual dumping that may include toxic disturbance of the species, particularly

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on State-owned lands, could have a Therefore, threats to this species could addition, there were no signs of trash significant adverse effect on the survival have a significant adverse effect on the dumping or fill in any of the pools of the species, leading to a relatively survival of the species, leading to a where the species occurs. Therefore, we high likelihood of extinction, and are of relatively high likelihood of extinction, assigned this species an LPN of 5. a high magnitude. However, the primary and are of a high magnitude. However, Flowering Plants threats of predation from fish and loss the threats are nonimminent, because of habitat due to degradation are surveys in 2004 and 2007 did not find Abronia alpina (Ramshaw Meadows nonimminent overall, because on the fish in the pools where these shrimp sand-verbena)—The following summary islands of Maui and Hawaii no fish were occur on Maui or the island of Hawaii. is based on information contained in observed in any of the pools where this Also, there was no evidence of recent our files. No new information was species occurs and there has been no habitat degradation at those pools. We provided in the petition we received on documented trash dumping in these assigned this species an LPN of 5. The May 11, 2004. Abronia alpina is a small pools. Only one site on Oahu had a Service is currently seeking any perennial herb in the Nyctaginaceae trash dumping instance, and in that case additional information on the status of, (four o-clock) family, 2.5 to 15.2 cm (1 the trash was cleaned up immediately, and the threats to, the population(s) of to 6 in) across, forming compact mats of and the species was subsequently Palaemonella burnsi in any location lavender-pink, trumpet-shaped, and observed. No additional dumping events outside of the United States. The generally fragrant flowers. Abronia are known to have occurred. We have Service may consider removing this alpina is known from one main assigned this species an LPN of 5. The species as a candidate for listing population center at Ramshaw Meadow Service is currently seeking any depending upon our review of new and a smaller population at the adjacent additional information on the status of, information regarding the status and Templeton Meadow. The meadows are and the threats to, the population(s) of distribution of this species outside the located on the Kern River Plateau in the Metabetaeus lohena in any location United States. Sierra Nevada, on lands administered by the Inyo National Forest, in Tulare outside of the United States. The Anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris Service may consider removing this County, California. The total estimated hawaiana)—The following summary is area occupied is approximately 6 ha (15 species as a candidate for listing based on information contained in our depending upon our review of new ac). The population fluctuates from year files. No new information was provided information regarding the status and to year without any clear trends. in the petition we received on May 11, distribution of this species outside the Population estimates for the years from 2004. Procaris hawaiana is an United States. 1985 through 2009 range from a high of Anchialine pool shrimp anchialine pool-inhabiting species of approximately 130,000 plants in 1997, (Palaemonella burnsi)—The following shrimp belonging to the family to a low of approximately 40,000 plants summary is based on information Procarididae. This species is endemic to in 2003. In 2009, when the population contained in our files. No new the Hawaiian Islands, and is currently was last monitored, the estimated total information was provided in the known from 2 pools on the island of population increased again to just over petition we received on May 11, 2004. Maui and 13 pools on the island of 120,000 plants. The factors currently Palaemonella burnsi is an anchialine Hawaii. The primary threats to this threatening Abronia alpina include pool-inhabiting species of shrimp species are predation from fish (which natural and human habitat alteration, belonging to the family Palaemonidae. do not naturally occur in the pools lowering of the water table due to This species was originally thought to inhabited by this species) and habitat erosion within the meadow system, and be endemic to the Hawaiian Islands loss due to degradation (primarily from recreational use within meadow with populations on the islands of Maui illegal trash dumping). The pools where habitats. Lodgepole pines are at three sites and Hawaii in several this species occurs on Maui are located encroaching upon meadow habitat with pools at one site. Recent information within a State Natural Area Reserve trees germinating within A. alpina indicates this species may also occur in (NAR). Hawaii’s State statutes prohibit habitat, occupying up to 20 percent of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. The current the collection of the species and the two A. alpina subpopulations. status of this species in the Ryukyu disturbance of the pools in State NARs. Lodgepole pine encroachment may alter Islands and the primary threats there are Twelve of the pools on the island of soil characteristics by increasing organic unknown at this time. Hawaii are also located within a State matter levels, decreasing porosity, and The primary threats to this species are NAR. However, enforcement of these moderating diurnal temperature predation by nonnative fish (which do prohibitions is difficult, and the fluctuations, thus reducing the not naturally occur in the pools negative effects from the introduction of competitive ability of A. alpina to inhabited by this species) and habitat fish are extensive and happen quickly. persist in an environment more loss due to degradation (primarily from In addition, there are no prohibitions for hospitable to other plant species. illegal trash dumping). The pools where either removal of the species or The habitat occupied by Abronia this species occurs on Maui are located disturbance to the pool for the one pool alpina directly borders the meadow within a State Natural Area Reserve located outside a NAR on the island of system, which is supported by the (NAR). Hawaii’s State statutes prohibit Hawaii. Therefore, threats to this South Fork of the Kern River. The river the collection of the species and the species could have a significant adverse flows through the meadow, at times disturbance of the pools in State NARs. effect on the survival of the species, coming within 15 m (50 ft) of Abronia On the island of Hawaii, the species leading to a relatively high likelihood of alpina habitat, particularly in the occurs within a State NAR and a extinction, and thus remain at a high vicinity of five subpopulations. National Park, where collection and magnitude. However, the threats to the Livestock trampling, along with the disturbance are also prohibited. species are nonimminent because, removal of bank stabilizing vegetation However, enforcement of these during 2004 and 2007 surveys, no fish by grazing livestock, has contributed to prohibitions is difficult, and the were observed in the pools where these downcutting of the river channel negative effects from the introduction of shrimp occur on Maui, and no fish were through the meadow, leaving the fish are extensive and happen quickly, observed in the one pool on the island meadow subject to potential alteration in part because the pools are very small. of Hawaii that was surveyed in 2005. In by lowering of the water table. In 2001,

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the U.S. Forest Service began resting the addition, three populations are located rise, are long-term threats that are grazing allotment for 10 years, in areas managed for conservation and expected to continue to affect pine eliminating cattle use up through the public outreach. The immediacy of the rocklands and ultimately substantially present time. The U.S. Forest Service is threats to the species as a whole is reduce the extent of available habitat, currently assessing the data collected on imminent because the threats are especially in the Keys. Overall, the the rested allotment and, if the data occurring now within each population magnitude of threats is moderate indicate that sufficient watershed on St. Croix. Additionally, we do not because a number of occurrences remain recovery has occurred, may conduct an anticipate any changes that would with relatively high population levels, environmental analysis to consider appreciably reduce these threats in the and not all of the occurrences are resumption of grazing. foreseeable future. Therefore we have affected by the threats. In addition, land Established hiker, packstock, and assigned an LPN of 8 to this species. managers are aware of the threats from cattle trails pass through A. alpina Arabis georgiana (Georgia exotic plants and lack of fire, and are, subpopulations. Two main hiker trails rockcress)—We continue to find that to some extent, working to reduce these pass through Ramshaw Meadow, but in listing this species is warranted but threats where possible. While a number 1988 and 1997, they were rerouted out precluded as of the date of publication of threats are occurring in some areas, of A. alpina subpopulations where of this notice. However, we are working the more significant threat from feasible. Occasional incidental use by on a proposed listing rule that we development is nonimminent because horses and hikers sometimes occurs on expect to publish prior to making the most occurrences are on public land, the remnants of cattle trails that pass next annual resubmitted petition 12- and sea-level rise is not currently through subpopulations in several month finding. In the course of affecting this species. Overall, the places The Service has funded studies preparing the proposed listing rule, we threats are nonimminent. Thus, we to determine appropriate conservation are continuing to monitor new assigned an LPN of 11 to this species. measures for the species, and is working information about this species’ status so Artemisia borealis var. wormskioldii with the U.S. Forest Service on that we can make prompt use of our (Northern wormwood)—The following developing a conservation strategy for authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the summary is based on information the species. The remaining threat affects case of an emergency posing a contained in our files. No new individuals in the population and has significant risk to the species. information was provided in the not appeared to have population-level Argythamnia blodgettii (Blodgett’s petition we received on May 11, 2004. effects. Therefore, the threats are low in silverbush)—The following summary is Historically known from eight sites, magnitude. In addition, because the based on information in our files. No northern wormwood is currently known grazing activities have been eliminated new information was provided in the from two populations, one in Klickitat for the time being and the hiking trails petition we received on May 11, 2004. County and one in Grant County, have been rerouted, the threats are Blodgett’s silverbush occurs in Florida Washington. This plant is restricted to nonimminent. The LPN for A. alpina and is found in open, sunny areas in exposed basalt, cobbly-sandy terraces, remains an 11 due to the presence of pine rockland; at the edges of rockland and sand habitat along the shore of, and moderate to low threats, and the hammock; at the edges of coastal berm; on islands in, the Columbia River. The determination that the threats are and sometimes in disturbed areas at the two populations are separated by 186 nonimminent at this point in time. edges of natural areas. Plants can be river miles (300 km) and three reservoirs Agave eggersiana (no common found growing from crevices on (formed behind large hydroelectric name)—Agave eggersiana, is an herb of limestone, or sand. The pine-rockland dams). Annual monitoring indicates the family Agavaceae endemic to the habitat where the species occurs in both populations are declining and both island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Miami-Dade County and the Florida remain vulnerable to environmental Islands. Approximately 450 individuals Keys requires periodic fires to maintain variability. Surveys have not detected in 10 localities are known to exist habitat with a minimum amount of any additional plants. around this island. The species hardwoods. There are approximately 22 Threats to northern wormwood currently occurs in six areas that appear extant occurrences, 12 in Monroe include direct loss of habitat through to be remnants of wild populations. The County and 10 in Miami-Dade County; regulation of water levels in the other four populations are introduced many occurrences are on conservation Columbia River and placement of riprap individuals planted for conservation. lands. However, 4 to 5 sites are recently along the river bank; human trampling The primary threats to Agave eggersiana thought to be extirpated. The estimated of plants from recreation; competition are from habitat modification and from population size of Blodgett’s silverbush with nonnative, invasive species; burial natural or manmade factors. The species in the Florida Keys, excluding Big Pine by wind- and water-borne sediments; occurs in areas either threatened by Key, is roughly 11,000; the estimated small population sizes; susceptibility to development pressure, or currently population in Miami-Dade County is genetic drift and inbreeding; and the affected by landscape practices and 375 to 13,650 plants. potential for hybridization with two competition with exotic species, Blodgett’s silverbush is threatened by other species of Artemisia. Ongoing resulting in detrimental effects to its habitat loss, which is exacerbated by conservation actions have reduced reproduction and recruitment. In habitat degradation due to fire trampling, but have not eliminated or addition, threats such as commercial suppression, the difficulty of applying reduced the other threats at the Grant interest (e.g. use as an ornamental prescribed fire to pine rocklands, and County site. Active conservation plant), possible predation by insects or threats from exotic plants. Remaining measures are not currently in place at arthropod larvae, and the possibility of habitats are fragmented. Threats such as the Miller Island site in Klickitat feral animals predating the species, road maintenance and enhancement, County. The magnitude of threat is high makes Agave eggersiana vulnerable. The infrastructure, and illegal dumping for this subspecies. Although the two magnitude of the current threats is threaten some occurrences. Blodgett’s remaining populations are moderate because at least 450 adults silverbush is vulnerable to natural demographically isolated, loss of habitat and 260 bulbils are known to occur, disturbances, such as hurricanes, through regulation of water levels, with half of the populations showing tropical storms, and storm surges. competition with invasive species, evidence of recruitment in the wild. In Climatic changes, including sea-level burial by wind- and water-borne

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sediments, and hybridization could species are degradation of habitat by appears to be stable. Until the eliminate one or both populations with fire, followed by invasion by nonnative management plan is completed and a single disturbance. The threats are cheatgrass and subsequent increase in made available, there are no regulatory imminent because recreational use is fire frequency. These threats currently mechanisms in place to protect the ongoing; invasive, nonnative species affect about 40 percent of the species’ species. Overall, we conclude that occur at both sites; erosion of the entire known range. Cheatgrass is likely threats are nonimminent because the substrate is ongoing at the Klickitat to increase given its rapid spread and more significant threats are not County site; and high water flows are persistence in habitat disturbed by currently occurring; off-road-vehicle use random, naturally occurring events that wildfires, fire and fuels management, has been controlled by fencing, and may occur unpredictably in any year. development of infrastructure, and the there are no plans for oil and gas Therefore, we have retained an LPN of inability of land managers to control it development within the plant’s habitat. 3 for this subspecies. on a landscape scale. Other threats to Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 11 to Astragalus anserinus (Goose Creek Schmoll milkvetch include fires, fire this species. milkvetch)—See above in ‘‘Listing break clearings, drought, and inadequate Boechera pusilla (Fremont County Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The regulatory mechanisms. We consider the rockcress)—The following summary is above summary is based on information threats to the species overall to be based on information in our files and in contained in our files. imminent and moderate in magnitude, the petition received on July 24, 2007. Astragalus microcymbus (Skiff because the species is currently facing Boechera pusilla is a perennial herb that milkvetch)—The following summary is them in many portions of its range, but occupies sparsely vegetated, coarse based on information contained in our the threats do not collectively result in granite soil pockets in exposed granite- files and in the petition we received on population declines on a short time pegmatite outcrops, with slopes July 30, 2007. Skiff milkvetch is a scale. Therefore, we have assigned generally less than 10 degrees, at an perennial forb that dies back to the Schmoll milkvetch an LPN of 8. elevation between 2,438 to 2,469 m ground every year. It has a very limited (8,000 to 8,100 ft). The only known Astragalus tortipes (Sleeping Ute range and a spotty distribution within population of B. pusilla is located in milkvetch)—The following summary is Gunnison and Saguache Counties in Wyoming on lands administered by the based on information contained in our Colorado, where it is found in open, Bureau of Land Management’s, Rock files. No new information was provided park-like landscapes in the sagebrush Springs Field Office in the southern steppe ecosystem on rocky or cobbly, in the petition we received on May 11, foothills of the Wind River Range. B. moderate to steep slopes of hills and 2004. Sleeping Ute milkvetch is a pusilla is likely restricted in distribution draws. The most significant threats to perennial plant that grows only on the by the limited occurrence of pegmatite skiff milkvetch are recreation, roads, Smokey Hills layer of the Mancos Shale in the area. The specialized habitat trails, the overall inadequacy of existing Formation on the Ute Mountain Ute requirements of B. pusilla have allowed regulatory mechanisms, and habitat Indian Reservation in Montezuma the plant to persist without competition fragmentation and degradation. County, Colorado. In 2000, 3,744 plants from other herbaceous plants or Recreational impacts are likely to were recorded at 24 locations covering sagebrush-grassland species that are increase given the close proximity of 500 ac within an overall range of 6,400 present in the surrounding landscape. skiff milkvetch to the town of Gunnison ac. Available information from 2000 Boechera pusilla has a threat that is and the increasing popularity of indicates that the species remains not identified, but that is indicated by mountain biking, motorcycling, and all- stable. Threats from borrow pit the small and declining population size. terrain vehicles. Furthermore, the excavation, off-highway vehicles, The population size may be declining Hartman Rocks Recreation Area draws irrigation canal construction, and a from a variety of unknown causes, with users and contains over 40 percent of prairie dog colony have had minor drought or disease possibly contributing the skiff milkvetch units. Other threats impacts that reduced the range and to the trend. The trend may have been to the species include residential and number of plants by small amounts. Off- reversed somewhat recently, but urban development; livestock, deer, and road-vehicle use of the habitat has without improved population numbers, elk use; climate change; and increasing reportedly been controlled by fencing. the species may reach a population level periodic drought, nonnative invasive Oil and gas development is active in the at which other stressors become threats. cheatgrass; and wildfire. We consider general area, but the Service has We are unable to determine how climate the threats to skiff milkvetch to be received no information to indicate that change may affect the species in the moderate in magnitude because while there is development within plant future. To the extent that we understand serious and occurring rangewide, they habitat. The Tribe reported that the the species, other potential habitat- do not collectively result in population status of the species remains related threats have been removed declines on a short time scale. The unchanged, the population is healthy, through the implementation of Federal threats are imminent because the and a management plan for the species regulatory mechanisms and associated species is currently facing them in many is currently in draft form. Despite these actions. Overutilization, predation, and portions of its range. Therefore, we have positive indications, we have no the inadequacy of regulatory assigned skiff milkvetch an LPN of 8. documentation concerning the current mechanisms are not viewed as threats to Astragalus schmolliae (Schmoll status of the plants, condition of habitat, the species. We consider the threats that milkvetch)—The following summary is or terms of the species management B. pusilla faces to be moderate in based on information contained in our plan being drafted by the Tribe. Thus, magnitude primarily because the files and in the petition we received on at this time, we cannot accurately assess population decline has been somewhat July 30, 2007. Schmoll milkvetch is a whether populations are being reversed. Although the threat is not narrow endemic perennial plant that adequately protected from previously fully understood, we know it exists as grows in the mature pinyon-juniper existing threats. The threats are indicated by the declining population, woodland of mesa tops in the Mesa moderate in magnitude, as their effects but we have not detected the source or Verde National Park area and in the Ute on the species have been minor and the nature of the threat. The threat to B. Mountain Ute Tribal Park in Colorado. species appears to be stable. Based on pusilla is imminent because, although The most significant threats to the information we have, the population not fully identified, we have evidence

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that the species is currently facing a of Maui and Hawaii, Hawaii. This encroach on pine rockland, and this threat indicated by reduced population species is known from 13 populations subspecies is eventually shaded out. size. The threat appears to be ongoing, totaling fewer than 750 individuals. NKDR has a prescribed fire program, although we are unsure of the extent Calamagrostis expansa is threatened although with many constraints on and timing of its effects on the species. by habitat degradation and loss by feral implementation. Habitat loss due to Thus, we have assigned B. pusilla an pigs (Sus scrofa), and by competition development was historically the LPN of 8. with nonnative plants. Herbivory by greatest threat to the pea. Much of the Brickellia mosieri (Florida brickell- feral pigs is a potential threat to this remaining habitat is now protected on bush)—The following summary is based species. All of the known populations of public lands. Absence of fire now on information contained in our files. C. expansa on Maui occur in managed appears to be the greatest of the No new information was provided in areas. Pig exclusion fences have been deterministic threats. Given the recent the petition we received on May 11, constructed, and control of nonnative increase in hurricane activity, storm 2004. This species is restricted to pine plants is ongoing within the exclosures surges are the greatest of the stochastic rocklands of Miami-Dade County, but still pose a significant threat. On the threats. The small range and patchy Florida. This habitat requires periodic island of Hawaii, the population in the distribution of the variety increase risk prescribed fires to maintain the low Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve has been from stochastic events. Climatic understory and prevent encroachment fenced entirely. This species is not changes, including sea-level rise, are by native tropical hardwoods and exotic represented in an ex situ collection. serious long-term threats. Models plants, such as Brazilian pepper. Only Threats to this species from feral pigs indicate that even under the best of one large occurrence is known to exist; and nonnative plants are ongoing, or circumstances, a significant proportion 15 other occurrences contain fewer than imminent, and of high magnitude of upland habitat will be lost on Big 100 individuals. Eleven occurrences are because they significantly affect the Pine Key by 2100. Additional threats on conservation lands, while the rest of species throughout its range, leading to include restricted range, invasive the extant populations are on private a relatively high likelihood of nonnative plants, roadside dumping, land and are currently vulnerable to extinction. Therefore, we retained an loss of pollinators, seed predators, and habitat loss and degradation. LPN of 2 for this species. development. Climatic changes, including sea-level Calochortus persistens (Siskiyou We maintain the previous assessment rise, are long-term threats that will mariposa lily)—See above in ‘‘Listing that hurricanes, storm surges, lack of reduce the extent of habitat. This Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The fire, and limited distribution result in a species is threatened by habitat loss, above summary is based on information moderate magnitude of threat because a which is exacerbated by habitat contained in our files. large part of the range is on conservation degradation due to fire suppression, the Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis lands wherein threats are being difficulty of applying prescribed fire to (Big Pine partridge pea)—The following addressed, although fire management is pine rocklands, and threats from exotic summary is based on information at much slower rate than is required. plants. Remaining habitats are contained in our files. No new The immediacy of hurricane threats is fragmented. The species is vulnerable to information was provided in the difficult to characterize, but imminence natural disturbances, such as petition we received on May 11, 2004. is considered high given that hurricanes hurricanes, tropical storms, and storm This pea is endemic to the lower Florida (and storm surges) of various surges. Due to its restricted range and Keys, and restricted to pine rocklands, magnitudes are frequent and recurrent the small sizes of most isolated hardwood hammock edges, and events in the area. Sea-level rise remains occurrences, this species is vulnerable roadsides and firebreaks within these uncontrolled but, overall, is to environmental (catastrophic ecosystems. Historically, it was known nonimminent. Overall, the threats from hurricanes), demographic (potential from Big Pine, Cudjoe, No Name, limited distribution and inadequate fire episodes of poor reproduction), and Ramrod, and Little Pine Keys (Monroe management are imminent because they genetic (potential inbreeding County, Florida). In 2005, a small are ongoing. In addition, the most depression) threats. Ongoing population was detected on lower consequential threats (hurricanes, storm conservation efforts include projects Sugarloaf Key, but this population was surges) are frequent, recurrent, and aimed at facilitating restoration and not located after Hurricane Wilma; imminent. Therefore, we retained an management of public and private lands plants were likely killed by the tidal LPN of 9 for Big Pine partridge pea. in Miami-Dade County and projects to surge from this storm. It presently Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. pinetorum reintroduce and establish new occurs on Big Pine Key, with a very (Pineland sandmat)—The following populations at suitable sites within the small population on Cudjoe Key. It is summary is based on information species’ historical range. The Service is fairly well distributed in Big Pine Key contained in our files. No new also pursuing additional habitat pine rocklands, which encompass information was provided in the restoration projects, which could help approximately 580 ha (1,433 ac), petition we received on May 11, 2004. further improve the status of the approximately 360 ha (890 ac) of which The pineland sandmat is only known species. Because of these efforts, the are within the Service’s National Key from Miami-Dade County, Florida. The overall magnitude of threats is Deer Refuge (NKDR). Over 80 percent of largest occurrence, estimated at more moderate. The threats are ongoing and the population probably exists on than 10,000 plants, is located on Long thus imminent. We assigned this species NKDR, with the remainder distributed Pine Key within Everglades National an LPN of 8. among State, County, and private Park. All other occurrences are smaller Calamagrostis expansa (Maui properties. Hurricane Wilma (October and are in isolated pine rockland reedgrass)—The following summary is 2005) resulted in a storm surge that fragments in heavily urbanized Miami- based on information contained in our covered most of Big Pine Key with sea Dade County. files. No new information was provided water. The surge reduced the population Occurrences on private (non- in the petition we received on May 11, by as much as 95 percent in some areas. conservation) lands and on one County- 2004. Calamagrostis expansa is a Pine rockland communities are owned parcel are at risk from perennial grass found in wet forests and maintained by relatively frequent fires. development and habitat degradation bogs, and in bog margins, on the islands In the absence of fire, shrubs and trees and fragmentation. Conditions related to

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climate change, particularly sea-level It is not widely dispersed within the buckwheat family. Germination occurs rise, will be a factor over the long term. limited range. Occurrences are sparser following the onset of late-fall and All occurrences of the species are in the southern portion of Big Pine Key, winter rains and typically represents threatened by habitat loss and which contains smaller areas of NKDR different cohorts from the seed bank. degradation due to fire suppression, the lands than does the northern portion. Flowering occurs in the spring, difficulty of applying prescribed fire, Wedge spurge inhabits sites with low generally between April and June. and exotic plants. These threats are woody cover (e.g., low palm and Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina severe within small and unmanaged hardwood densities) and usually, grows up to 30 cn in height and 5 to 40 fragments in urban areas. However, the exposed rock or gravel. cn across. The plant currently is known threats of fire suppression and exotics Pine rockland communities are from two disjunct localities: One in the are reduced on lands managed by the maintained by relatively frequent fires. southeastern portion of Ventura County, National Park Service. Hydrologic In the absence of fire, shrubs and trees California, on a site within the Upper changes are considered to be another encroach on pine rockland, and the Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space threat. Hydrology has been altered subspecies is eventually shaded out. Preserve, formerly known as Ahmanson within Long Pine Key due to artificial NKDR has a prescribed fire program, Ranch, and the other in an area of drainage, which lowered ground water, although with many constraints on southwestern Los Angeles County and by the construction of roads, which implementation. Habitat loss due to known as Newhall Ranch. Investigations either impounded or diverted water. development was historically the of historical locations and seemingly Regional water management intended to greatest threat to the wedge spurge. suitable habitat within the range of the restore the Everglades could negatively Much of the remaining habitat is now species have not revealed any other affect the pinelands of Long Pine Key in protected on public lands. Absence of occurrences. fire now appears to be the greatest of the the future. At this time, we do not know The threats facing Chorizanthe parryi deterministic threats. Given the recent whether the proposed restoration and var. fernandina include threatened increase in hurricane activity, storm associated hydrological modifications destruction, modification, or surges are the greatest of the stochastic will have a positive or negative effect on curtailment of its habitat or range; threats. The small range and patchy pineland sandmat. This narrow endemic inadequacy of existing regulatory distribution of the subspecies increases may be vulnerable to catastrophic mechanisms; and other natural or risk from stochastic events. Climatic events and natural disturbances, such as manmade factors. The threats to changes, including sea-level rise, are hurricanes. Overall, the magnitude of Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina from threats to this species is moderate; by serious long-term threats. Models indicate that even under the best of habitat destruction or modification are applying regular prescribed fire, the slightly less than they were 7 years ago. National Park Service has kept Long circumstances, a significant proportion of upland habitat will be lost on Big One of the two populations (Upper Las Pine Key’s pineland vegetation intact Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve) and relatively free of exotic plants, and Pine Key by 2100. Additional threats include restricted range, invasive is in permanent, public ownership and partnerships are in place to help address is being managed by an agency that is the continuing threat of exotics on other nonnative plants, roadside dumping, loss of pollinators, seed predators, and working to conserve the plant; however, pine rockland fragments. Overall, the the use of adjacent habitat for threats are nonimminent because fire development. We maintain the previous assessment Hollywood film productions was management at the largest occurrence is that low fire-return intervals plus brought to our attention in 2007, and the regularly conducted and sea-level rise hurricane-related storm surges, in potential impacts to Chorizanthe parryi and hurricanes are longer-term threats combination with a limited, fragmented var. fernandina have not yet been and because regional water management distribution and threats from sea-level evaluated. During a site visit in April actions are only proposed, so they will rise, result in a moderate magnitude of 2012, we noted an abundance of not be implemented in the immediate threat, in part, because a large part of nonnative species that, if not managed, future. Therefore, we assigned a LPN of the range is on conservation lands, could degrade the quality of the habitat 12 to this subspecies. where some threats can be substantially for C. parryi var. fernandina over time. Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum controlled. The immediacy of hurricane It is not clear whether this presents an (Wedge spurge)—The following threats is difficult to categorize, but in imminent threat at this time. We will be summary is based on information this case threats are imminent given that working with the landowners to manage contained in our files. No new hurricanes (and storm surges) of various the site for the benefit of Chorizanthe information was provided in the magnitudes are frequent and recurrent parryi var. fernandina. The other petition we received on May 11, 2004. events in the area. Sea-level rise remains population (Newhall Ranch) is under Systematic surveys of publicly owned uncontrolled, but over much of the the threat of development; however, a pine rockland throughout this plant’s range is nonimminent compared to Candidate Conservation Agreement range were conducted during 2005– other prominent threats. Threats (CCA) is being developed with the 2006 and 2007–2008 to determine resulting from limited fire occurrences landowner, and it is possible that the population size and distribution. Wedge are imminent. As major threats are remaining plants can also be conserved. spurge is a small prostrate herb. It was ongoing, overall, the threats are Until such an agreement is finalized, the historically, and remains, restricted to imminent. Therefore, we retained an threat of development and the potential pine rocklands on Big Pine Key in LPN of 9 for this subspecies. damage to the Newhall Ranch Monroe County, Florida. Pine rocklands Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina population still exists, as shown by the encompass approximately 580 ha (1,433 (San Fernando Valley spineflower)— destruction of some plants during ac) on Big Pine Key, approximately 360 The following summary is based on installation of an agave farm. ha (890 ac) of which are within the information contained in our files and Furthermore, cattle grazing on Newhall Service’s National Key Deer Refuge the petition we received on December Ranch may be a threat but we lack (NKDR). Most of the species’ range falls 14, 1999. Chorizanthe parryi var. information to determine if it is within the NKDR, with the remainder fernandina is a low-growing, currently occurring at a level that would on State, County, and private properties. herbaceous, annual plant in the threaten this species. Cattle grazing may

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harm Chorizanthe parryi var. saturated soils with surface or located in protected lands managed for fernandina by trampling and soil subsurface water flow make it conservation by the Puerto Rico compaction. Grazing activity could also particularly vulnerable. Department of Natural and alter the nutrient (e.g., elevated organic We consider the threats that the Environmental Resources or the Service. material levels) content of the soils for Wright’s marsh thistle faces to be The staff from the Royal Botanical Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina moderate in magnitude because the Garden (Kew) has developed habitat through fecal inputs, which in major threats (habitat loss and germination and cultivation protocols turn may favor the growth of other plant degradation due to alteration of the for the species and is planning to species that would otherwise not grow hydrology of its rare wetland habitat), conduct studies to determine the genetic so readily on the mineral-based soils. while serious and occurring rangewide, variation of the populations. We Over time, changes in species do not collectively result in serious therefore have assigned to Cordia composition may render the sites less population declines on a short time rupicola an LPN of 5 for threats that on favorable for the persistence of scale. Still, long-term drought, in the whole are high in magnitude and Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina. combination with ground and surface nonimminent. Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina may water withdrawal, pose a current and Dalea carthagenensis ssp. floridana be threatened by invasive nonnative future threat to Wright’s marsh thistle (Florida prairie-clover)—The following plants, including grasses, which could and its habitat. All of the threats are summary is based on information potentially displace it from available ongoing and therefore imminent. In contained in our files. No new habitat; compete for light, water, and addition to their current existence, we information was provided in the nutrients; and reduce survival and expect these threats to likely intensify in petition we received on May 11, 2004. establishment. the foreseeable future. Thus, we Dalea carthagenensis var. floridana Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina is continue to assign an LPN of 8 to this occurs in Big Cypress National Preserve particularly vulnerable to extinction due species. (BCNP) in Monroe and Collier Counties to its concentration in two isolated Cordia rupicola (no common name)— and at six locations within Miami-Dade areas. The existence of only two areas of The following summary is based on County, Florida, albeit mostly in limited occurrence, and a relatively small range, information contained in our files. No numbers. There are a total of nine extant makes the variety highly susceptible to new information was provided in the occurrences, seven of which are on extinction or extirpation from a petition we received on May 11, 2004. conservation lands. In addition, 25 significant portion of its range due to Cordia rupicola is a small shrub that has plants were reintroduced to a park in random events such as fire, drought, been described from southwestern Miami-Dade County in 2006, but only 4 and erosion as these threats would Puerto Rico, Vieques Island, and remained after 8 months. result in a high level of mortality. We Anegada Island (British Virgin Islands). Existing occurrences are extremely retained an LPN of 6 for Chorizanthe All these sites lay within the subtropical small and may not be viable, especially parryi var. fernandina due to high- dry forest life zone overlying a some of the occurrences in Miami-Dade magnitude, nonimminent threats. limestone substrate. Cordia rupicola has County. Remaining habitats are Cirsium wrightii (Wright’s marsh a restricted distribution. Currently, fragmented. Climatic changes, including thistle)—The following summary is approximately 227 individuals are sea-level rise, are long-term threats that based on information from the 12-month known from 4 locations: Pen˜ uelas, are expected to reduce the extent of warranted but precluded finding Yauco, Gua´nica Commonwealth Forests, habitat. This plant is threatened by published November 4, 2010 (75 FR and Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. habitat loss and degradation due to fire 67925). There are eight general Additionally, the species is reported as suppression, the difficulty of applying confirmed locations of Wright’s marsh common in Anegada. prescribed fire to pine rocklands, and thistle in New Mexico: Santa Rosa, This species is threatened by threats from exotic plants. Damage to Guadalupe County; Bitter Lake National maintenance of trails and power line plants by off-road vehicles is a serious Wildlife Refuge, Chaves County; Blue right-of-way in the Gua´nica threat within the BCNP; damage Spring, Eddy County; La Luz Canyon, Commonwealth Forest, and residential attributed to illegal mountain biking at Karr Canyon, Silver Springs, and and commercial development in the R. Hardy Matheson Preserve has Tularosa Creek, Otero County; and Pen˜ uelas, Yauco, and Anegada Island. been reduced. One location within Alamosa Creek, Socorro County. The Cordia rupicola is also vulnerable to BCNP is threatened by changes in Wright’s marsh thistle has been natural (e.g., hurricanes) or manmade mowing practices; this threat is low in extirpated from all previously known (e.g., human-induced fires) threats. magnitude. This species is being locations in Arizona, and was Furthermore, the population on parasitized by the introduced insect misidentified and likely not ever Anegada Island, which is considered the lobate lac scale (Paratachardina present in Texas. The status of the healthiest population, is expected to be pseudolobata) at some localities (e.g., R. species in Mexico is uncertain, with few affected by sea level rise as most of the Hardy Matheson Preserve), but we do verified collections. suitable habitat for the species is below not know the extent of this threat. This The Wright’s marsh thistle faces 3 m above sea level. Therefore, even a plant is vulnerable to natural threats primarily from natural and small rise in sea level could devastate disturbances, such as hurricanes, human-caused modifications of its the healthiest population, and lead to a tropical storms, and storm surges. Due habitat due to ground and surface water significantly greater likelihood of to its restricted range and the small sizes depletion, drought, invasion of extinction. For these reasons, the of most isolated occurrences, this Phragmites australis, and from the magnitude of the current threats is high. species is vulnerable to environmental inadequacy of existing regulatory Although the threats faced by this (catastrophic hurricanes), demographic mechanisms. The species occupies species are expected to increase in the (potential episodes of poor relatively small areas of seeps, springs, future if conservation measures are not reproduction), and genetic (potential and wetland habitat in an arid region implemented and long-term impacts are inbreeding depression) threats. The plagued by drought and ongoing and not averted, we conclude that the magnitude of threats is high because of future water withdrawals. The species’ threats are nonimminent. About 60 the extremely limited number of highly specific requirements of percent of known adult plants are occurrences, the small number of

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individual plants at each occurrence, Everglades National Park and Big information about this species’ status so and poor reproduction. The threats are Cypress National Preserve; plants on that we can make prompt use of our imminent; even though many sites are Federal lands are protected from the authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the on conservation lands, these plants still threat of habitat loss due to case of an emergency posing a face significant ongoing threats. development. However, any unknown significant risk to the species. Therefore, we have assigned an LPN of plants, indefinite occurrences, and Eriogonum kelloggii (Red Mountain 3 to Florida prairie-clover. suitable habitat remaining on private or buckwheat)—We continue to find that Dichanthelium hirstii (Hirst Brothers’ non-conservation land are threatened by listing this species is warranted but panic grass)—The following summary is development. Continued development precluded as of the date of publication based on information contained in our of suitable habitat diminishes the of this notice. However, we are working files. No new information was provided potential for reintroduction into its on a proposed listing rule that we in the petition we received on May 11, historical range. Extant occurrences are expect to publish prior to making the 2004. Dichanthelium hirstii is a in low-lying areas and will be affected next annual resubmitted petition 12- perennial grass that produces erect, by climatic changes, including rising sea month finding. In the course of leafy, flowering stems from May to level. preparing the proposed listing rule, we October. The species occurs in coastal Fire suppression, the difficulty of are continuing to monitor new plain intermittent ponds, usually in wet applying prescribed fire to pine information about this species’ status so savanna or pine barren habitats, and is rocklands, and threats from nonnative that we can make prompt use of our known to occur at only three sites in plants are ongoing threats. As the only authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the New Jersey, one site in Delaware, and known remaining occurrences are on case of an emergency posing a two sites in North Carolina. While all lands managed by the National Park significant risk to the species. six extant D. hirstii populations are Service, the threats of fire suppression Eriogonum soredium (Frisco located on public land or privately and exotics are somewhat reduced. The buckwheat)—The following summary is owned conservation lands, threats to the presence of the exotic Old World based on information in our files and species from encroachment of woody climbing fern is of particular concern the petition we received on July 30, and herbaceous vegetation, competition due to its ability to spread rapidly and 2007. Frisco buckwheat is a low, from rhizomatous perennials, reduce the populations of this species. mound-forming, perennial plant with fluctuations in hydrology, and threats In Big Cypress National Preserve, plants oval leaves covered by short, white, associated with small population are threatened by off-road-vehicle use. woolly hairs. Flowers are pink or white number and size are significant. Given Changes to hydrology are a potential and grow in tight clusters that resemble the naturally fluctuating number of threat. Hydrology has been altered drumsticks. Frisco buckwheat is a plants found at each site and the within Long Pine Key due to artificial narrow endemic restricted to soils isolated nature of the wetlands (limiting drainage, which lowered ground water, derived from Ordovician limestone dispersal opportunities), even small and construction of roads, which either outcrops. The range of the species is less changes in the species’ habitat could impounded or diverted water. Regional than 5 mi2 (13 km2) with only four result in local extirpation. Loss of any water management intended to restore known populations. All four known sites would constitute a the Everglades has the potential to affect populations occur exclusively on significant contraction of the species’ the pinelands of Long Pine Key, where private lands in Beaver County, Utah, range. Therefore, we consider the a large population occurs. At this time, and each population occupies a very threats to be high in magnitude. Because it is not known whether Everglades small area with large, localized densities most of the potential threats to D. hirstii restoration will have a positive or of plants. Available population evolve over a period of years before they negative effect. This narrow endemic estimates are highly variable and rise to the level of becoming imminent may be vulnerable to catastrophic inaccurate due to the limited access for threats, and, in some cases, are being events and natural disturbances, such as surveys associated with private lands. managed to some extent, we consider hurricanes. Overall, the magnitude of The primary threat to Frisco the threats to be nonimminent. Based on threats is high. Only two known buckwheat is habitat destruction from nonimminent threats of a high occurrences remain, and the likelihood precious metal and gravel mining. magnitude, we retain an LPN of 5 for of establishing a sizable population on Mining for precious metals historically this species. other lands is diminished due to occurred within the vicinity of all four Digitaria pauciflora (Florida pineland continuing habitat loss. Impacts from populations. Three of the populations crabgrass)—The following summary is climatic changes, including sea-level are currently in the immediate vicinity based on information contained in our rise, are currently low, but expected to of active limestone quarries. Ongoing files. No new information was provided be severe in the future. The majority of mining in the species’ habitat has the in the petition we received on May 11, threats are nonimminent as they are potential to extirpate one population in 2004. This perennial grass was long-term in nature (water management, the near future and extirpate all historically found in central to southern hurricanes, and sea-level rise). populations in the foreseeable future. Miami-Dade County, Florida, most Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 5 to Ongoing exploration for precious metals commonly in habitat along the border this species. and gravel indicate that mining will between pine rockland and marl prairie. Eriogonum corymbosum var. nilesii continue, resulting in the loss and Pine rocklands in Miami-Dade County (Las Vegas buckwheat)—We continue to fragmentation of Frisco buckwheat have largely been destroyed by find that listing this species is populations. Other threats to species residential, commercial, and urban warranted but precluded as of the date include nonnative species, vulnerability development and by agriculture. With of publication of this notice. However, associated with small population size, most remaining habitat having been we are working on a proposed listing climate change, and the overall negatively altered, this species has been rule that we expect to publish prior to inadequacy of existing regulatory extirpated from much of its historical making the next annual resubmitted mechanisms. We consider threats that range, including extirpation from all petition 12-month finding. In the course Frisco buckwheat faces to be moderate areas outside of National Parks. Two of preparing the proposed listing rule, in magnitude, because while serious large occurrences remain within we are continuing to monitor new and occurring rangewide, the threats do

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not significantly reduce populations on northern Coahuila. Despite intensive that outcompete and displace it. a short time scale. The threats are searches, a population known from Gardenia remyi is also threatened by imminent because three of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, landslides and reduced reproductive populations are currently in the Texas, has not been found since 1952, vigor on the island of Hawaii. This immediate vicinity of active limestone and is presumed extirpated. In 2009, species is represented in ex situ quarries. Therefore, we have assigned botanists confirmed Guadalupe fescue at collections. On Kauai, G. remyi Frisco buckwheat an LPN of 8. one site in APFF Maderas del Carmen, individuals have been outplanted Festuca hawaiiensis (no common but could not find the species at the within ungulate-proof exclosures in two name)—The following summary is original site, known as Sierra El Jardı´n, locations. Feral pigs have been fenced based on information contained in our which was first reported in 1973. Two out of the west Maui populations of G. files. No new information was provided additional Mexican populations, near remyi, and nonnative plants have been in the petition we received on May 11, Fraile in southern Coahuila, and the reduced in those areas. However, these 2004. This species is a cespitose Sierra de la Madera in central Coahuila, threats are not controlled and are (growing in dense, low tufts) annual have not been monitored since 1941 and ongoing in the remaining, unfenced found in dry forests on the island of 1977, respectively. A great amount of populations, and are, therefore, Hawaii, Hawaii. Festuca hawaiiensis is potentially suitable habitat in Coahuila imminent. In addition, the threat from known from 4 populations totaling and adjacent Mexican states has never goats and deer is ongoing and imminent approximately 1,000 individuals in and been surveyed. An historically throughout the range of the species, around the Pohakuloa Training Area. unprecedented period of exceptional because no goat or deer control Historically, this species was also found drought and high temperatures measures have been undertaken for any on Hualalai and Puu Huluhulu, but it no prevailed throughout the species’ range of the populations of G. remyi. All of the longer occurs at these sites. In addition, from October 2010 until November threats are of a high magnitude because Festuca hawaiiensis possibly occurred 2011. We will not know what impacts habitat destruction, predation, and on Maui. This species is threatened by this unusual weather had on Guadalupe landslides could significantly affect the pigs (Sus scrofa), goats (Capra hircus), fescue populations until monitoring is entire species, resulting in direct mouflon (Ovis musimon), and feral completed during the September 2012 mortality or reduced reproductive sheep (O. aries) that degrade and flowering season. capacity, leading to a relatively high destroy habitat; fire; military training The potential threats to Guadalupe likelihood of extinction. Therefore, we activities; and nonnative plants that fescue include changes in the wildfire retained an LPN of 2 for this species. outcompete and displace it. Feral pigs, cycle and vegetation structure, Gonocalyx concolor (no common goats, mouflon, and feral sheep have trampling from humans and pack name)—The following summary is been fenced out of a portion of the animals, possible grazing, trail runoff, based on information contained in our populations of F. hawaiiensis, and fungal infection of seeds, small sizes files. No new information was provided nonnative plants have been reduced in and isolation of populations, and in the petition we received on May 11, the fenced area, but the majority of the limited genetic diversity. The Service 2004. Gonocalyx concolor is a small populations are still affected by threats and the National Park Service evergreen epiphytic or terrestrial shrub. from ungulates. The threats are established a candidate conservation This species in currently known from imminent because they are not agreement (CCA) in 2008, to provide two populations: one at Cerro La Santa controlled and are ongoing in the additional protection for the Chisos and the other at Charco Azul, both in remaining, unfenced populations. Mountains population, and to promote the Carite Commonwealth Forest. This Firebreaks have been established at two cooperative conservation efforts with forest is located in the Sierra de Cayey populations, but fire is an imminent U.S. and Mexican partners. The threats and extends through the municipalities threat to the remaining populations that to Guadalupe fescue are of moderate of Guayama, Cayey, Caguas, San have no firebreaks. There are no ex situ magnitude and are not imminent due to Lorenzo, and Patillas in southeastern collections. The threats are of a high the provisions of the CCA and other Puerto Rico. A population previously magnitude because they could adversely conservation efforts which address reported in the Caribbean National affect the majority of F. hawaiiensis threats from trampling, grazing, trail Forest apparently no longer exists. In populations, resulting in a high level of runoff, and genetic diversity, as well as 1996, approximately 172 plants were direct mortality or reduced reproductive the likelihood that other populations reported at Cerro La Santa. However, in capacity. Therefore, we retained an LPN exist in mountains of Coahuila and 2006, only 25 individuals were reported of 2 for this species. adjacent Mexican states that have not at this site, and 4 were located in Charco Festuca ligulata (Guadalupe fescue)— been surveyed. Thus, we maintained an Azul. At Cerro La Santa, the species is The following summary is based on LPN of 11 for this species. found growing on trees located close to information obtained from the original Gardenia remyi (Nanu)—The communication towers, roads, species petition, received in 1975, and following summary is based on plantations, and trails. from our files, on-line herbarium information contained in our files. No The Gonocalyx concolor population databases, and scientific publications. new information was provided in the found at Cerro La Santa is threatened by Six small populations of Guadalupe petition we received on May 11, 2004. habitat destruction and modification fescue, a member of the Poaceae (grass Gardenia remyi is a tree found in mesic caused by vegetation clearing around family), have been documented in to wet forests on the islands of Kauai, telecommunication towers. Although mountains of the Chihuahuan desert in Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, Hawaii. the species is located within a Texas and in Coahuila, Mexico. Only Gardenia remyi is known from 19 Commonwealth forest and protected by two extant populations have been populations totaling between 85 and 87 Law No. 133 (‘‘Ley de Bosques de confirmed in the last 5 years: one in the individuals. This species is threatened Puerto Rico’’ or The Puerto Rico Forest Chisos Mountains, Big Bend National by pigs (Sus scrofa), goats (Capra Law), unauthorized maintenance of Park, Texas, and one in the privately hircus), and deer (Axis axis and existing communication facilities results owned Area de Proteccio´ n de Flora y Odocoileus hemionus) that degrade and in loss of individuals. Gonocalyx Fauna (Protected Area for Flora and destroy habitat and possibly forage upon concolor is not currently listed in the Fauna—APFF) Maderas del Carmen in the species, and by nonnative plants Commonwealth Regulation No. 6766

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(‘‘Reglamento para Regir las Especies plants at the only native site in the shrubland to wet lowland forests on the Vulnerables y en Peligro de Extincio´n United States is approximately 669 islands of Oahu and Kauai, Hawaii. This en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto adults, and it is unknown if species is known from 11 populations Rico’’), which provides protection for reproduction is occurring. The five totaling between 400 and 900 threatened and endangered species. additional test populations collectively individuals. Hedyotis fluviatilis is However, the Natural Heritage Program support approximately 483 adults, 17 threatened by pigs (Sus scrofa) and of the Puerto Rico Department of juveniles, and 322 seedlings, and goats (Capra hircus) that degrade and Natural and Environmental Resources reproduction is occurring in three test destroy habitat, and by nonnative plants recognizes Gonocalyx concolor as a populations. The population in Mexico that outcompete and displace it. critical element. In addition, the Carite is estimated to be 1,100 plants. Landslides and hurricanes are a Commonwealth Forest is designated as The occurrences in Mexico are potential threat to populations on Kauai. a Critical Wildlife Area by the threatened by coastal development from Herbivory by pigs and goats is a likely Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Despite Tijuana to Ensenada. The native threat. This species is not represented in these conservation efforts, damage to the population in the United States is an ex situ collection. We retained an species still occurs due to its location within an area that receives public use; LPN of 2 because the severity of the near telecommunication facilities. In however, management at this site has threats to the species is high given the addition, due to its restricted minimized impacts associated with low number of individuals and the distribution, the species is vulnerable to habitat degradation. This species has a potential for whole populations to be the effects of natural events (e.g., very low reproductive output, although eliminated, and the threats are ongoing hurricanes, landslides). Existing laws the causes are as yet unknown. and, therefore, imminent. and regulations have not been Competition from invasive, nonnative Helianthus verticillatus (Whorled effectively enforced to protect these plants may pose a threat to the sunflower)—See above in ‘‘Listing populations. Because of small reproductive potential of this species. In Priority Changes in Candidates.’’ The population size and limited one limited study, 95 percent of the above summary is based on information distribution, any loss of individuals due flowers examined were damaged by contained in our files. to maintenance of communication insects or fungal agents or aborted Ivesia webberi (Webber ivesia)—We facilities or natural events could prematurely, and insects or fungal continue to find that listing this species significantly affect the entire species, agents damaged 50 percent of the seeds is warranted but precluded as of the leading to a relatively high likelihood of produced. All of the populations in the date of publication of this notice. extinction. Therefore, the threats to United States are small, and one test However, we are working on a proposed Gonocalyx concolor are high in population is declining. Small listing rule that we expect to publish prior to making the next annual magnitude. Overall the threats are populations are considered subject to resubmitted petition 12-month finding. nonimminent because the damage to the random events and reductions in fitness In the course of preparing the proposed species from clearing of land near due to low genetic variability. Threats listing rule, we are continuing to telecommunication facilities and the associated with small population size monitor new information about this threats from natural events occur only are further exacerbated by the limited species’ status so that we can make periodically. Therefore, we have range and low reproductive output of prompt use of our authority under assigned an LPN of 5 to Gonocalyx this species. However, if low seed production is because of ecosystem Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an concolor. disruptions, such as loss of effective emergency posing a significant risk to Hazardia orcuttii (Orcutt’s pollinators, there could be additional the species. hazardia)—The following summary is threats that need to be addressed. Due Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens based on information contained in our to low abundance and a very small area (Ohe)—The following summary is based files and the petition we received on of occupancy, any regional fire would on information contained in our files. March 8, 2001. Hazardia orcuttii is an be a rangewide threat. Furthermore, No new information was provided in evergreen shrubby species in the because the soil seed bank is poor and the petition we received on May 11, Asteraceae (sunflower family). The erect seed viability is low, recovery from a 2004. Joinvillea ascendens ssp. shrubs are 50–100 cm (20–40 in) high. fire may be especially challenging. The ascendens is an erect herb found in wet The only known extant native response mechanism of this species to to mesic Metrosideros polymorpha- occurrence of this species in the United fire is unknown. Overall, the threats to Acacia koa (ohia-koa) lowland and States covers an area of 2 ha (5 ac) in H. orcuttii are of a high magnitude montane forests on the islands of Kauai, the Manchester Conservation Area in because they have the potential to Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, northwestern San Diego County, significantly reduce the reproductive Hawaii. This subspecies is known from California. This site is managed by potential of this species. The threats are 44 widely scattered populations totaling Center for Natural Lands Management nonimminent overall because invasive, approximately 200 individuals. Plants (CNLM). Using material derived from nonnative plants and low reproductive are typically found as only one or two the native population, the CNLM output are long-term in nature, and it is individuals, with miles between facilitated the establishment of test not clear that they have risen to the populations. This subspecies is populations at four additional sites in level of becoming imminent threats. threatened by destruction or northwest San Diego County, California, This species faces high-magnitude modification of habitat by pigs (Sus including sites in the Manchester nonimminent threats; therefore, we scrofa), goats (Capra hircus), and deer Conservation Area, Kelly Ranch Habitat assigned this species an LPN of 5. (Axis axis and Odocoileus hemionus), Conservation Area, Rancho La Costa Hedyotis fluviatilis (Kamapuaa)—The and by nonnative plants that Habitat Conservation Area, and San following summary is based on outcompete and displace native plants. Elijo Lagoon. Hazardia orcuttii also information contained in our files. No Herbivory by pigs, goats, deer, and rats occurs at a few coastal sites in Mexico, new information was provided in the (Rattus exulans, R. norvegicus, and R. where it recently became listed as petition we received on May 11, 2004. rattus) is a likely threat to this species. endangered under Mexican Hedyotis fluviatilis is a scandent Landslides are a potential threat to environmental law. The total number of (climbing) shrub found in mixed populations on Kauai and Molokai.

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Seedlings have rarely been observed in green and the flowering stalks have 5 to substantially reduce the extent of the wild. Seeds germinate in cultivation, 35 white or purple-tinted flowers. available habitat; fire suppression and but most die soon thereafter. It is Ostler’s peppergrass is a narrow difficulty in applying prescribed fire; uncertain if this rarity of reproduction is endemic restricted to soils derived from road maintenance activities; exotic typical of this subspecies, or if it is Ordovician limestone outcrops. The species; illegal dumping; natural related to habitat disturbance. Feral pigs range of the species is less than 5 mi2(13 disturbances, such as hurricanes, have been fenced out of a few of the km2) with only four known populations. tropical storms, and storm surges; and populations of this subspecies, and All four populations occur exclusively the small and fragmented nature of the nonnative plants have been reduced in on private lands in the southern San current population. Reduced pollinator those populations that are fenced. Francisco Mountains of Beaver County, activity and suppression of pollinator However, these threats are not Utah. Available population estimates populations from pesticides used in controlled and are ongoing in the are highly variable and inaccurate due mosquito control and decreased seed remaining, unfenced populations. This largely to the limited access for surveys production due to increased seed species is represented in ex situ associated with private lands. predation in a fragmented wildland collections. The threats are of high The primary threat to Ostler’s urban interface may also affect sand magnitude because habitat degradation, peppergrass is habitat destruction from flax; however, not enough information nonnative plants, and predation result precious metal and gravel mining. is known on this species’ reproductive in mortality or severely affect the Mining for precious metals historically biology or life history to assess these reproductive capacity of the majority of occurred within the vicinity of all four potential threats. Some of the threats to populations of this species, leading to a populations. Three of the populations the species—including fire suppression, relatively high probability of extinction. are currently in the immediate vicinity difficulty in applying prescribed fire, The threats are ongoing and thus are of active limestone quarries, but mining road maintenance activities, exotic imminent. Therefore, we retained an is only currently occurring in the area species, and illegal dumping—threaten LPN of 3 for this subspecies. of one population. Ongoing mining in nearly all remaining populations. Leavenworthia crassa (Gladecress)— the species’ habitat has the potential to However, some efforts are under way to The following information is based on extirpate one population in the near use prescribed fire to control exotics on information contained in our files. No future. Ongoing exploration for precious conservation lands where this species new information was provided in the metals and gravel indicate that mining occurs. petition we received on May 11, 2004. will continue, resulting in the loss and There are some circumstances that This species of gladecress is a fragmentation of Ostler’s peppergrass may mitigate the impacts of the threats component of glade flora, occurring in populations. Other threats to species upon the species. For example, a survey association with limestone include nonnative species, vulnerability conducted in 2009 showed outcroppings. Leavenworthia crassa is associated with small population size, approximately 74,000 plants on a non- endemic to a 13-mile radius area in climate change, and the overall conservation, public site in Miami-Dade north central Alabama in Lawrence and inadequacy of existing regulatory County; this is far more plants than was Morgan Counties, where only six mechanisms. We consider threats that previously known. Although a portion populations of this species are Ostler’s peppergrass faces to be of the plants will be affected by documented. Glade habitats today have moderate in magnitude, because while development, approximately 60,000 are been reduced to remnants fragmented serious and occurring rangewide, the anticipated to be protected and by agriculture and development. threats do not collectively result in managed. Still, this project will need to Populations of this species are now significant population declines on a be carefully monitored because impacts located in glade-like areas exhibiting short time scale. The threats are would affect the largest known various degrees of disturbance including imminent because the species is occurrence of the species. In addition, pastureland, roadside rights-of-way, and currently facing them across its entire much of the pine rockland on Big Pine cultivated or plowed fields. The most range. Therefore, we have assigned Key, the location of the largest vigorous populations of this species are Ostler’s peppergrass an LPN of 8. occurrence in the Keys, is protected located in areas which receive full, or Linum arenicola (Sand flax)—The from development. near full, sunlight with limited following summary is based on Nevertheless, due to the small and herbaceous competition. The magnitude information contained in our files. No fragmented nature of the current of threat is high for this species, because new information was provided in the population, stochastic events, disease, with the limited number of populations, petition we received on May 11, 2004. or genetic bottlenecks may strongly the threats could result in direct Sand flax is found in pine rockland and affect this species in the Keys. One mortality or reduced reproductive marl prairie habitats, which require example is Hurricane Wilma, which capacity of the species. This species periodic wildfires in order to maintain inundated most of the species’ habitat appears to be able to adjust to periodic an open, shrub-free subcanopy and on Big Pine Key in 2005, and plants disturbances, and although competition, reduce leaf-litter levels. Based upon were not found 8 to 9 weeks post-storm; exotics, and herbicide use are potential available data, there are 12 extant the density of sand flax declined to zero threats, there is no evidence that they occurrences of sand flax; 11 others have in all management units at The Nature are ongoing, and they therefore are been extirpated or destroyed. For the Conservancy’s preserve in 2006. In a considered nonimminent. Thus, we most part, only small and isolated 2007 post-hurricane assessment, sand assigned an LPN of 5 to this species. occurrences remain in low-lying areas flax was found in northern plots, but not Lepidium ostleri (Ostler’s in a restricted range of southern Florida in any of the southern plots on Big Pine peppergrass)—The following summary and the Florida Keys. In general, Key. More current data are not available. is based on information in our files and viability is uncertain for 10 of 12 Overall, the magnitude of threats is the petition we received on July 30, occurrences. high, because the threats affect all 12 2007. Ostler’s peppergrass is a long- Sand flax is threatened by habitat loss known occurrences of the species and lived perennial herb in the mustard and degradation due to development; can result in a precipitous decline to the family that grows in dense, cushion-like climatic changes, including sea-level population levels, particularly when tufts. The leaves are hairy and grayish- rise, which ultimately are likely to combined with the potential impacts

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from hurricanes or other natural Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 3 to addition, little regeneration is observed disasters. Because development is not this plant variety. in this species. The threats are of a high immediate for the majority of the largest Myrsine fosbergii (Kolea)—The magnitude, as they are severe enough to population in Miami-Dade County and following summary is based on affect the continued existence of the another population in the Keys is also information contained in our files. No species, leading to a relatively high largely protected from development new information was provided in the likelihood of extinction. The threats are because much of it is within public and petition we received on May 11, 2004. imminent, because they are ongoing. private conservation lands, the threat of Myrsine fosbergii is a branched shrub or Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for habitat loss remains nonimminent. In small tree found in lowland mesic and this species. addition, sea-level rise is a long-term wet forests, on watercourses or stream Ochrosia haleakalae (Holei)—The threat because we do not have evidence banks, on the islands of Kauai and following summary is based on that it is present in any population of Oahu, Hawaii. This species is currently information contained in our files. No sand flax. Therefore, we retained an known from 14 populations totaling a new information was provided in the LPN of 5 for this species. little more than 100 individuals. petition we received on May 11, 2004. Linum carteri var. carteri (Carter’s Myrsine fosbergii is threatened by feral Ochrosia haleakalae is a tree found in small-flowered flax)—The following pigs (Sus scrofa) and goats (Capra dry to mesic forests, often on lava, on summary is based on information hircus) that degrade and destroy habitat the islands of Hawaii and Maui. This contained in our files. No new and may forage upon the plant, and by species is currently known from 8 information was provided in the nonnative plants that compete for light populations totaling between 64 and 76 petition we received on May 11, 2004. and nutrients. This species is individuals. Ochrosia haleakalae is This plant occupies open and disturbed represented in an ex situ collection. threatened by fire; by feral pigs (Sus sites in pinelands of Miami-Dade Although there are plans to fence and scrofa), goats (Capra hircus), and cattle County, Florida. Currently, there are remove ungulates from the Helemano (Bos taurus) that degrade and destroy nine known occurrences. Occurrences area of Oahu, which may benefit this habitat and may directly forage upon it; with fewer than 100 individuals are species, no conservation measures have and by nonnative plants that compete located on three county-owned yet been taken to protect this species for light and nutrients. This species is preserves. A site with more than 100 from nonnative herbivores. Feral pigs represented in ex situ collections. Feral plants is owned by the U.S. government, and goats are found throughout the pigs, goats, and cattle have been fenced but the site is not managed for known range of M. fosbergii, as are out of one wild and one outplanted conservation. nonnative plants. The threats from feral population on private lands on the Climatic changes, including sea-level pigs, goats, and nonnative plants are of island of Maui and out of one rise, are long-term threats that will a high magnitude because they pose a outplanted population in Hawaii likely reduce the extent of habitat. The severe threat throughout the limited Volcanoes National Park on the island nine existing occurrences are small and range of this species, and they are of Hawaii. Nonnative plants have been vulnerable to habitat loss, which is ongoing and therefore imminent. We reduced in the fenced areas. The threat exacerbated by habitat degradation due retained an LPN of 2 for this species. from fire is of a high magnitude and to fire suppression, the difficulty of Nothocestrum latifolium (‘Aiea)—The imminent because no control measures applying prescribed fire to pine following summary is based on have been undertaken to address this rocklands, and threats from nonnative information contained in our files. No threat that could adversely affect O. plants. Remaining habitats are new information was provided in the haleakalae as a whole. The threats from fragmented. Incompatible management petition we received on May 11, 2004. feral pigs, goats, and cattle are ongoing practices are also a threat at most Nothocestrum latifolium is a small tree to the unfenced populations of O. protected sites; several sites are mowed found in dry to mesic forests on the haleakalae. The threat from nonnative during the flowering and fruiting islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, plants is ongoing, imminent, and of a season. In the absence of fire, periodic and Lanai, Hawaii. Nothocestrum high magnitude to the wild populations mowing can, in some cases, help latifolium is known from 17 declining on both islands as this threat adversely maintain open, shrub-free understory populations totaling fewer than 1,200 affects the survival and reproductive and provide benefits to this plant. individuals. This species is threatened capacity of the majority of the However, mowing can also eliminate by feral pigs (Sus scrofa), goats (Capra individuals of this species, leading to a reproduction entirely in very young hircus), and deer (Axis axis and relatively high likelihood of extinction. plants, delay reproductive maturation, Odocoileus hemionus) that degrade and Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for and kill adult plants. With flexibility in destroy habitat and may forage upon it; this species. timing and proper management, threats by nonnative plants that compete for Penstemon scariosus var. albifluvis from mowing practices can be reduced light and nutrients; and by the loss of (White River beardtongue)—The or negated. Carter’s small-flowered flax pollinators that negatively affect the following summary is based on is vulnerable to natural disturbances, reproductive viability of the species. information contained in our files and such as hurricanes, tropical storms, and This species is represented in an ex situ the petition we received on October 27, storm surges. This species exists in such collection. Ungulates have been fenced 1983. This species is restricted to small numbers at so few sites that it may out of four areas where N. latifolium calcareous soils derived from oil shale be difficult to develop and maintain currently occurs, hundreds of N. barrens of the Green River Formation in viable occurrences on the available latifolium individuals have been the Uinta Basin of northeastern Utah conservation lands. Although no outplanted in fenced areas, and and adjacent Colorado. There are 20 population viability analysis has been nonnative plants have been reduced in occurrences known in Utah and 1 in conducted for this plant, indications are some populations that are fenced. Colorado. Most of the occupied habitat that existing occurrences are at best However, these ongoing conservation of the White River beardtongue is marginal, and it is possible that none are efforts for this species benefit only a few within developed and expanding oil truly viable. As a result, the magnitude of the known populations. The threats and gas fields. The location of the of threats is high. The threats are are not controlled and are ongoing in species’ habitat exposes it to destruction ongoing, and thus are imminent. the remaining unfenced populations. In from road, pipeline, and well site

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construction in connection with oil and have shown early signs of success. Platanthera integrilabia is a perennial gas development. Grazing by wildlife Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 8 to herb that grows in partially, but not and livestock is an additional threat. A this species. fully, shaded, wet, boggy areas at the future threat (and potentially the Pinus albicaulis (Whitebark pine)— head of streams and on seepage slopes greatest threat) to the species is oil shale The following summary is based on in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, development. Traditional oil and gas information in our files and in the Mississippi, South Carolina, and energy development is currently petition received on December 9, 2008. Tennessee. Historically, there were at occurring and expected to increase Pinus albicaulis is a hardy conifer found least 90 populations of P. integrilabia. It within habitat areas for this species, and at alpine tree line and subalpine is presumed extirpated from North therefore the threat is imminent. elevations in Washington, Oregon, Carolina and Virginia. Currently there However, the BLM has adopted a Nevada, California, Idaho, Montana, and are about 60 extant sites supporting the Special Status Species policy and has Wyoming, and in British Columbia and species. included in its current Resource Alberta, Canada. In the United States, Several populations have been Management Plan actions to protect this approximately 96 percent of land where destroyed due to road, residential, and species. These protections lessen the the species occurs is federally owned or commercial construction, and to extent of traditional oil and gas managed, primarily by the U.S. Forest projects that altered soil and site development impacts to this species, so Service. Pinus albicaulis is a slow- hydrology such that suitability for the that although oil and gas development growing, long-lived tree with a life span species was reduced. Several of the will continue to increase within this of up to 500 years and sometimes more known populations are in or adjacent to than 1,000 years. It is considered a species’ range, the threat is of moderate powerline rights-of-way. Mechanical keystone, or foundation, species in magnitude. The threats are ongoing and clearing of these areas may benefit the western North America, where it therefore imminent. Thus, we assigned species by maintaining adequate light increases biodiversity and contributes to an LPN of 9 to this plant variety. levels, but can promote development of critical ecosystem functions. Physaria globosa (Desvaux) O’Kane & The primary threat to the species is dense, shrubby vegetation due to Al-Shehbaz (Short’s bladderpod)—The from disease in the form of the extensive suckering of woody species; following summary is based on nonnative white pine blister rust and its however, the indiscriminant use of information contained in our files. No interaction with other threats. Pinus herbicides in these areas could pose a new information was provided in the albicaulis also is currently experiencing significant threat to the species. All- petition we received on May 11, 2004. significant mortality from predation by terrain vehicles have damaged several Short’s bladderpod is a perennial the native mountain pine beetle. We sites and pose a threat at most sites. member of the mustard family that also anticipate that continuing Some of the known sites for the species occurs in Indiana (1 location), Kentucky environmental effects resulting from occur in areas that are managed (6 locations), and Tennessee (22 climate change will result in direct specifically for timber production. locations). It grows on steep, rocky, habitat loss for P. albicaulis. Bioclimatic Timber management is not necessarily wooded slopes; on talus areas; along models predict that suitable habitat for incompatible with the protection and cliff tops and bases; and on cliff ledges. P. albicaulis will decline precipitously management of the species, but care It is usually associated with south- to within the next 100 years. Past and must be taken during timber west-facing calcareous outcrops ongoing fire suppression is also management to ensure that the adjacent to rivers or streams. Road negatively affecting populations of P. hydrology of bogs supporting the construction and road maintenance albicaulis through direct habitat loss. species is not altered. Natural have played a significant role in the Additionally, environmental changes succession can result in decreased light decline of P. globosa. Specific activities resulting from changing climatic levels. Because of the species’ that have affected the species in the past conditions are acting alone and in dependence upon moderate-to-high and may continue to threaten it include combination with the effects of fire light levels, some type of active bank stabilization, herbicide use, suppression to increase the frequency management to prevent complete mowing during the growing season, and severity of wildfires. Lastly, the canopy closure is required at most grading of road shoulders, and road existing regulatory mechanisms are locations. Collecting for commercial and widening or repaving. Sediment inadequate to address the threats other purposes is a potential threat. deposition during road maintenance or presented above. The threats that face P. Herbivory (primarily deer) threatens the from other activities also potentially albicaulis are high in magnitude species at several sites. Due to the threatens the species. Because the because the major threats occur alteration of habitat and changes in natural processes that maintained throughout all of the species’ range and natural conditions, protection and habitat suitability and competition from are having a major population-level recovery of this species is dependent invasive, nonnative vegetation have effect on the species. The threats are upon active management rather than been interrupted at many locations, imminent because rangewide disease, just preservation of habitat. Invasive, active habitat management is necessary predation, fire and fire suppression, and nonnative plants such as Japanese at those sites. Threats associated with environmental effects of climate change honeysuckle and kudzu also threaten roadside maintenance activities and are affecting P. albicaulis currently and several sites. The threats are habitat alterations by invasive plant are expected to continue and likely widespread; however, the impact of encroachment are imminent because intensify in the foreseeable future. Thus, those threats on the species’ survival is they are ongoing. These threats are of we have assigned P. albicaulis an LPN moderate in magnitude. Several of the moderate magnitude as they are not of 2. sites are protected to some degree from affecting all locations of this species at Platanthera integrilabia (Correll) Leur the threats by being within State parks, this time, the viability of 10 of the 22 (White fringeless orchid)—The national forests, wildlife management occurrences observed in Tennessee were following summary is based on areas, or other protected land and the rated as fair or better, and efforts information contained in our files. No species is spread out over sites in undertaken to restore suitable habitat new information was provided in the several States. The threats, however, are conditions at the Indiana site apparently petition we received on May 11, 2004. imminent because they are ongoing, and

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we have therefore assigned an LPN of 8 we retained an LPN of 3 for this plant slugs (Limax maximus, Vaginulus to this species. variety. plebeius, and Milax gagates) that Potentilla basaltica (Soldier Meadow Ranunculus hawaiensis (Makou)— consume it; by habitat degradation and cinquefoil or basalt cinquefoil)—We The following summary is based on destruction by feral pigs, goats, and continue to find that listing this species information contained in our files. No deer; and by nonnative plants that is warranted but precluded as of the new information was provided in the compete for light and nutrients. This date of publication of this notice. petition we received on May 11, 2004. species is represented in an ex situ However, we are working on a proposed Ranunculus hawaiensis is an erect or collection. Feral pigs have been fenced listing rule that we expect to publish ascending perennial herb found in out of one Maui population of R. prior to making the next annual mesic to wet forests dominated by mauiensis, and nonnative plants have resubmitted petition 12-month finding. Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia) and been reduced in the fenced area. One In the course of preparing the proposed Acacia koa (koa) with scree substrate individual occurs in the Kamakou listing rule, we are continuing to (loose stones or rocky debris on a slope) Preserve on Molokai, managed by The monitor new information about this on the islands of Maui and Hawaii, Nature Conservancy. However, ongoing species’ status so that we can make Hawaii. This species is currently known conservation efforts benefit only two prompt use of our authority under from 14 individuals in 6 populations on populations. The threats are of high Section 4(b)(7) in the case of an the island of Hawaii. This does not magnitude because the threats result in emergency posing a significant risk to include one population on Maui (Kukui direct mortality for a plant that already the species. Planeze) that was not relocated on a has low population numbers, or survey conducted in 2006 or one wild Pseudognaphalium (= Gnaphalium) significantly reduce reproductive population at Waikamoi (also on Maui) sandwicensium var. molokaiense capacity for the majority of the has not been observed since 1995. (Enaena)—The following summary is populations, leading to a relatively high Ranunculus hawaiensis is threatened by based on information contained in our likelihood of extinction. They are direct predation by slugs (Limax files. No new information was provided imminent because they are ongoing in maximus, Vaginulus plebeius, and in the petition we received on May 11, the Kauai and the majority of the Maui Milax gagates), feral pigs (Sus scrofa), 2004. Pseudognaphalium populations. Therefore, we retained an goats (Capra hircus), cattle (Bos taurus), sandwicensium var. molokaiense is a LPN of 2 for this species. mouflon (Ovis musimon), and feral Rorippa subumbellata (Tahoe yellow perennial herb found in strand sheep (O. aries); by pigs, goats, cattle, vegetation in dry consolidated dunes on mouflon, and feral sheep that degrade cress)—The following summary is based the islands of Molokai and Maui. and destroy habitat; and by nonnative on information contained in our files Historically, this variety was also found plants that compete for light and and the petition we received on on Oahu and Lanai. This variety is nutrients. This species is represented in December 27, 2000. Rorippa known from 5 populations totaling ex situ collections, and three subumbellata is a small, branching, approximately 200 to 20,000 individuals populations have been outplanted into perennial herb with umbel-like (depending upon rainfall) in the protected exclosures; however, feral inflorescences and yellow flowers. Moomomi area on the island of Molokai, ungulates and nonnative plants are not Rorippa subumbellata is known only and from 2 populations of a few controlled in the remaining, unfenced from the shores of Lake Tahoe in individuals at Waiehu dunes and at Puu populations. In addition, the threat from California and Nevada. Data collected Kahulianapa on west Maui. introduced slugs is of a high magnitude over the last 25 years generally indicate Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. because slugs occur throughout the that species occurrence fluctuates yearly molokaiense is threatened by feral goats limited range of this species and no as a function of both lake level and the (Capra hircus) and axis deer (Axis axis) effective measures have been amount of exposed habitat. Records kept that degrade and destroy habitat and undertaken to control them or prevent since 1900 show a preponderance of possibly prey upon it, and by nonnative them from causing significant adverse years with high lake levels that would plants that compete for light and impacts to this species which currently isolate and reduce R. subumbellata nutrients. Potential threats also include is only known to have a small number occurrences at higher beach elevations. collection for lei-making and off-road of individuals. Overall, the threats from From the standpoint of the species, less vehicles that directly damage plants and pigs, goats, cattle, mouflon, feral sheep, favorable peak years have occurred degrade habitat. Weed control is slugs, and nonnative plants are of a high almost twice as often as more favorable conducted for one population on magnitude and are ongoing (imminent) low-level years. Annual surveys are Molokai; however, no conservation for R. hawaiensis. We retained an LPN conducted to determine population efforts have been initiated to date for the of 2 for this species. numbers, site occupancy, and general other populations on Molokai or for the Ranunculus mauiensis (Makou)—The disturbance regime. During the 2003 individuals on Maui. This species is following summary is based on and 2004 annual survey periods, the represented in an ex situ collection. The information contained in our files. No lake level was approximately 6,224 ft ongoing threats from feral goats, axis new information was provided in the (1,897.08m); 2004 was the fourth deer, nonnative plants, collection, and petition we received on May 11, 2004. consecutive year of low water. Rorippa off-road vehicles are of a high Ranunculus mauiensis is an erect to subumbellata was present at 46 of the magnitude because no control measures weakly ascending perennial herb found 60 sites surveyed, up from 31 occupied have been undertaken for the Maui in open sites in mesic to wet forests and sites in 2001, when the lake level was population or for four of the five along streams on the islands of Maui, higher at 6,225 ft (1,897.38 m). Molokai populations, and the threats Kauai, and Molokai, Hawaii. This Approximately 25,200 stems were result in direct mortality for a plant that species is currently known from 14 present in 2003, whereas during the already has very low population populations totaling 198 individuals. 2001 annual survey, the estimated numbers, or significantly reduce Ranunculus mauiensis is threatened by number of stems was 6,136. Lake levels reproductive capacity for the majority of feral pigs (Sus scrofa), goats (Capra rose again in 2006, and less habitat was the populations, leading to a relatively hircus), mule deer (Odocoileus available. Lake levels dropped again in high likelihood of extinction. Therefore, hemionus), axis deer (Axis axis), and 2008 through 2010, leading to an

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increase in both occupied sites and degrade and destroy habitat, and by Kipuka Ki in Hawaii Volcanoes National estimated stem counts. During very low nonnative plants that compete for light Park is reproducing by seeds, but seeds lake levels in 2009, an estimated 27,522 and nutrients. Feral ungulates have been have not been successfully germinated stems were observed at 46 sites, equal fenced out of the population of S. under nursery conditions. to the highest number of occupied sites pubescens on the island of Hawaii. Feral This species is threatened by feral previously recorded. In 2011, the lake goats have been fenced out of a few of pigs (Sus scrofa), cattle (Bos taurus), and level was 6,228.4 ft (1,898.4 m), 3.8 ft the west Maui populations of S. mouflon (Ovis musimon) that degrade (1.2 m) higher than in 2010, and an pubescens. Nonnative plants have been and destroy habitat, and by nonnative estimated 6,494 stems were observed at reduced in the populations that are plants that compete for light and 25 sites. fenced on Maui. However, the threats nutrients. This species is represented in Many Rorippa subumbellata sites are are not controlled and are ongoing in ex situ collections. Feral pigs have been intensively used for commercial and the remaining unfenced populations on fenced out of some of the areas where public purposes and are subject to Maui and the four populations on S. macrophyllus currently occurs, but various activities such as erosion Molokai. Additional fenced areas are the fences do not exclude mouflon. control, marina developments, pier planned at Pohakuloa Training Area on Nonnative plants have been reduced in construction, and recreation. The U.S. the island of Hawaii. Nonnative feral the populations that are fenced. Forest Service, California Tahoe ungulates and nonnative plants will be However, the threats are not controlled Conservancy, and California Department controlled within these fenced areas. and are ongoing in the remaining, of Parks and Recreation have Fire is a potential threat to the Hawaii unfenced populations, and are, management programs for R. Island population. This species is not therefore, imminent. Similarly the threat subumbellata that include monitoring, represented in an ex situ collection. Due from mouflon is ongoing and imminent fenced enclosures, and transplanting to the extremely low number of in all populations, because the current efforts when funds and staff are individuals of this species, the threats fences do not exclude them. In addition, available. Public agencies (including the from goats and nonnative plants are of all of the threats are of a high magnitude Service), private landowners, and a high magnitude. These threats cause because habitat degradation and environmental groups collaborated to mortality and reduced reproductive competition from nonnative plants develop a Conservation Strategy capacity for the majority of the present a risk to the species, resulting in coupled with a Memorandum of populations, leading to a relatively high direct mortality for a species that Understanding-Conservation likelihood of extinction. The threats are already has very low population Agreement. The Conservation Strategy, imminent because they are ongoing with numbers, or significantly reducing the completed in 2003, lays out goals and respect to most of the populations. reproductive capacity. Therefore, we objectives for recovery and survival, Therefore, we retained an LPN of 2 for retained an LPN of 2 for this species. contains a research and monitoring this species. Solanum conocarpum (marron agenda, and serves as the foundation for Sedum eastwoodiae (Red Mountain bacora)—The following summary is an adaptive management program. stonecrop)—We continue to find that based on information in our files and in Because of the continued commitments listing this species is warranted but the petition we received on November to conservation demonstrated by precluded as of the date of publication 21, 1996. Solanum conocarpum is a dry- regulatory and land management of this notice. However, we are working forest shrub in the island of St. John, agencies participating in the on a proposed listing rule that we U.S. Virgin Islands. Its current conservation strategy, we have expect to publish prior to making the distribution includes eight localities in determined the threats to R. next annual resubmitted petition 12- the island of St. John, each ranging from subumbellata from various land uses month finding. In the course of 1 to 144 individuals. The species has have been reduced to a moderate preparing the proposed listing rule, we been reported to occur on dry, poor magnitude. In high lake level years such are continuing to monitor new soils. It can be locally abundant in as 2011, however, recreational use is information about this species’ status so exposed topography on sites disturbed concentrated within R. subumbellata that we can make prompt use of our by erosion, areas that have received habitat, and we consider this threat in authority under Section 4(b)(7) in the moderate grazing, and around ridgelines particular to be ongoing and imminent. case of an emergency posing a as an understory component in diverse Therefore, we are maintaining an LPN of significant risk to the species. woodland communities. A habitat 8 for this species. Sicyos macrophyllus (‘Anunu)—The suitability model suggests that the vast Schiedea pubescens (Maolioli)—The following summary is based on majority of Solanum conocarpum following summary is based on information contained in our files. No habitat is found in the lower elevation information contained in our files. No new information was provided in the coastal scrub forest. Efforts have been new information was provided in the petition we received on May 11, 2004. conducted to propagate the species to petition we received on May 11, 2004. Sicyos macrophyllus is a perennial vine enhance natural populations, and Schiedea pubescens is a reclining or found in wet Metrosideros polymorpha planting of seedlings has been weakly climbing vine found in diverse (ohia) forests and subalpine Sophora conducted in the island of St. John. mesic to wet forests on the islands of chrysophylla-Myoporum sandwicense Solanum conocarpum is threatened Maui, Molokai, and Hawaii, Hawaii. It (mamane-naio) forests. Sicyos by the lack of natural recruitment, is presumed extirpated from Lanai. macrophyllus was historically known absence of dispersers, fragmented Currently, this species is known from 8 from Kipahulu Valley on Maui and was distribution, lack of genetic variation, populations totaling between 30 and 32 widely distributed on the island of climate change, and habitat destruction individuals on Maui, from 4 Hawaii. Currently, this species is known or modification by exotic mammal populations totaling between 21 and 22 from 10 populations totaling between 24 species. These threats are evidenced by individuals on Molokai, and from 1 and 26 individuals in the Kohala and the reduced number of individuals, low population of 4 to 6 individuals on the Mauna Kea areas, and in Hawaii number of populations, and lack of island of Hawaii. Schiedea pubescens is Volcanoes National Park (Puna area) on connectivity between populations. threatened by feral pigs (Sus scrofa) and the island of Hawaii. It appears that a Overall, we determined the magnitude goats (Capra hircus) that consume it and naturally occurring population at of the threats to be high as shown by the

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poor quality of the populations. The construction of these reservoirs that the species is more abundant than majority of threats are ongoing and, occurred decades ago when these when we initially identified it as a therefore, imminent. We assigned an projects were built (during the years of candidate for listing. Taking into LPN of 2 to this species. 1917 to 1928), and the Service is not account its distribution and abundance, Solanum nelsonii (popolo)—The aware of any plans to construct and the fact that it is increasing, the following summary is based on additional reservoirs within the current magnitude of threats is moderate. The information contained in our files. No range of this species. However, S. threats are currently occurring and new information was provided in the plumosa continues to be subject to therefore are imminent. Thus we petition we received on May 11, 2004. threats from the continued operation of assigned an LPN of 8 for this species. Solanum nelsonii is a sprawling or these reservoirs (which has reduced the Trifolium friscanum (Frisco clover)— trailing shrub found in coral rubble or frequency and severity of scouring The following summary is based on sand in coastal sites. This species is floods that help to prevent the information in our files and the petition known from populations on Molokai establishment of other species within we received on July 30, 2007. Frisco (approximately 300 individuals), the the species’ limited habitat) and the clover is a dwarf mat-forming or tufted island of Hawaii (5 individuals), and the encroachment of nonnative, invasive perennial herb with a woody stem, northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), species. Because the species’ global silver hairy leaves, and reddish-purple Hawaii. The current populations in the distribution consists of a single flowers. The species is a narrow NWHI are found on Kure (unknown population, its entire range is affected endemic found only in Utah, with five number of individuals), Midway by these threats. However, because known populations restricted to (approximately 260 individuals), Laysan scouring floods (prior to reservoir sparsely vegetated, pinion-juniper- (approximately 490 individuals), Pearl construction) likely only occurred sagebrush communities and shallow, and Hermes (unknown number of episodically, and in light of the gravel soils derived from volcanic individuals), and Nihoa (8,000 to 15,000 relatively slow progression of nonnative gravels, Ordovician limestone, and individuals). On Molokai, S. nelsonii is species into areas of occupied habitat dolomite outcrops. The majority (68 moderately threatened by ungulates that and efforts to reduce these nonnative percent) of Frisco clover plants occur on degrade and destroy habitat, and may plants, the magnitude of these threats is private lands, with the remaining plants eat S. nelsonii. On Molokai and the moderate to low. However, because found on Federal and State lands. NWHI, this species is threatened by these threats (especially those presented On the private and State lands, the nonnative plants that outcompete and by nonnative, invasive plant species) are most significant threat to Frisco clover displace it. Solanum nelsonii is currently occurring, they are imminent. is habitat destruction from mining for threatened by herbivory by a nonnative Thus, we assigned this species an LPN precious metals and gravel. Active grasshopper (Schistocerca nitens) in the of 8. mining claims, recent prospecting, and NWHI. On Kure, Midway, Laysan, and Symphyotrichum georgianum an increasing demand for precious Pearl and Hermes in the NWHI, (Georgia aster) — The following metals and gravel indicate that mining tsunamis are also a potential threat to S. summary is based on information in Frisco clover habitats will increase in nelsonii. This species is represented in contained in our files. No new the foreseeable future, likely resulting in ex situ collections. Ungulate exclusion information was provided in the the loss of large numbers of plants. fences, routine fence monitoring and petition we received on May 11, 2004. Other threats to Frisco clover include maintenance, and weed control protect Georgia aster is a relict species of post nonnative, invasive species; the population of S. nelsonii on oak savanna/prairie communities that vulnerability associated with small Molokai. Limited weed control is existed in the Southeast prior to population size; drought associated with conducted in the NWHI. These threats widespread fire suppression and climate change; and the overall are of moderate magnitude because of extirpation of large, native, grazing inadequacy of existing regulatory the relatively large number of plants, animals. Georgia aster currently occurs mechanisms. We consider the threats to and the fact that this species is found on in the States of Alabama, Georgia, North Frisco clover to be moderate in more than one island. The threats are Carolina, and South Carolina. The magnitude because, while serious and imminent for the majority of the species is presumed extant in 8 counties occurring rangewide, they are not acting populations because they are ongoing in Alabama, 22 counties in Georgia, 9 independently or cumulatively to have and are not being controlled. We counties in North Carolina, and 15 a highly significant negative impact on therefore retained an LPN of 8 for this counties in South Carolina. The species its survival or reproductive capacity. species. appears to have been eliminated from The threats are imminent because the Solidago plumosa (Yadkin River Florida. species is currently facing them across goldenrod)—The following information Most remaining populations survive its entire range. Therefore, we have is based on information in our files. No adjacent to roads, utility rights-of-way, assigned Frisco clover an LPN of 8. new information was provided in the and other openings where current land petition we received on April 20, 2010. management mimics natural Ferns and Allies The global distribution of Solidago disturbance regimes. Most populations Cyclosorus boydiae (no common plumosa consists of a single population are small (10 to 100 stems), and because name)—The following summary is that occurs in two discrete locations the species’ main mode of reproduction based on information contained in our along a 2.5-mile stretch of the Yadkin is vegetative, each isolated population files. No new information was provided River in North Carolina. may represent only a few genotypes. in the petition we received on May 11, The availability of suitable habitat Many populations are currently 2004. This species is a small- to and the fate of the single known threatened by one or more of the medium-sized fern found in mesic to population of this species are primarily following factors: woody succession due wet forests along stream banks on the determined by the manner in which two to fire suppression, development, islands of Oahu and Maui, Hawaii. hydroelectric projects (the Yadkin River highway expansion or improvement, Historically, this species was also found and Yadkin-Pee Dee River Hydroelectric and herbicide application. However, the on the island of Hawaii, but it has been Projects) are operated. Any detrimental species is still relatively widely extirpated there. Currently, this species effects to S. plumosa resulting from the distributed, and information indicates is known from 7 populations totaling

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approximately 400 individuals. This in the petition we received on May 11, higher priority is that the grizzly bear species is threatened by feral pigs (Sus 2004. Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis populations, delta smelt, and scrofa) that degrade and destroy habitat is a terrestrial fern found in mesic-to- Sclerocactus brevispinus are currently and may eat this plant, and by wet forests. It is currently found in listed as threatened, and therefore nonnative plants that compete for light Hawaii on the islands of Maui, Oahu, already receive certain protections and nutrients. Feral pigs have been and Hawaii, from at least 9 populations under the ESA. We promulgated fenced out of two populations, totaling at least 50 individuals. There is regulations extending take prohibitions including the largest population, on a possibility that the range of this plant for wildlife and plants under section 9 Maui, and nonnative plants are being variety could be larger and include the to threatened species (50 CFR 17.31 and controlled in the fenced areas at these other main Hawaiian Islands. 50 CFR 17.71, respectively). Prohibited sites. No conservation efforts are under Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis is actions under section 9 for wildlife way to alleviate threats to the other threatened by feral pigs (Sus scrofa) that include, but are not limited to, take (i.e., populations on Maui, or the two degrade and destroy habitat, and by to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, populations on Oahu. This species is nonnative plants that compete for light wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or represented in an ex situ collection. The and nutrients. Pigs have been fenced out attempt to engage in such activity). For magnitude of the threats acting upon the of some areas on east and west Maui, plants, prohibited actions under section currently extant populations is Oahu, and on Hawaii, where M. strigosa 9 include removing or reducing to moderate because two of the seven var. mauiensis currently occurs, and possession any listed plant from an area populations, including the largest nonnative plants have been reduced in under Federal jurisdiction (50 CFR population that contains 40 percent of the fenced areas. However, the threats 17.61). Other protections that apply to the total population for the species, are are not controlled and are ongoing in these threatened species even before we protected from pigs, and nonnative the remaining unfenced populations on complete proposed and final plants are being controlled in these Maui, Oahu, and Hawaii. Therefore, the reclassification rules include those areas. The threats are ongoing and threats from feral pigs and nonnative under section 7(a)(2) of the ESA therefore imminent. Therefore, we plants are imminent. The threats are of whereby Federal agencies must insure retained an LPN of 8 for this species. a high magnitude because they are that any action they authorize, fund, or Huperzia stemmermanniae sufficiently severe to adversely affect carry out is not likely to jeopardize the (Waewaeiole)—The following summary the species throughout its range, continued existence of any endangered is based on information contained in resulting in direct mortality for a species or threatened species. our files. No new information was that already has very low population Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) provided in the petition we received on numbers, or significantly reducing North Cascades ecosystem, Cabinet- May 11, 2004. This species is an reproductive capacity and leading to a Yaak, and Selkirk populations (Region epiphytic pendant clubmoss found in relatively high likelihood of extinction. 6)—Between 1986 and 2007, we have mesic-to-wet Metrosideros polymorpha- We therefore retained an LPN of 3 for received and reviewed 10 petitions Acacia koa (ohia-koa) forests on the M. strigosa var. mauiensis. requesting a change in status for islands of Maui and Hawaii, Hawaii. individual grizzly bear populations (51 Only 3 populations are known, totaling Petitions To Reclassify Species Already FR 16363, May 2, 1986; 55 FR 32103, approximately 20 individuals. The Maui Listed or To Add to the Listed Range August 7, 1990; 56 FR 33892, July 24, population has not been observed since We previously made warranted-but- 1991; 57 FR 14372, April 20, 1992; 58 1995. Huperzia stemmermanniae is precluded findings on five petitions FR 8250, February 12, 1993; 58 FR threatened by feral pigs (Sus scrofa), seeking to reclassify threatened species 38552, July 19, 1993; 58 FR 43856, goats (Capra hircus), cattle (Bos taurus), to endangered status. The taxa involved August 18, 1993; 58 FR 43857, August and axis deer (Axis axis) that degrade in the reclassification petitions are three 18, 1993; 59 FR 46611, September 9, and destroy habitat, and by nonnative populations of the grizzly bear (Ursus 1994; 64 FR 26725, May 17, 1999; 72 FR plants that compete for light, space, and arctos horribilis), delta smelt 14866, March 29, 2007). Through this nutrients. Huperzia stemmermanniae is (Hypomesus transpacificus), and process, we determined that the also threatened by randomly occurring Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette Cabinet-Yaak, Selkirk, and North natural events due to its small cactus). Because these species are Cascade ecosystems warrant endangered population size. One individual at already listed under the ESA, they are status. On April 18, 2007, the Service Waikamoi Preserve may benefit from not candidates for listing and are not initiated a 5-year review to evaluate the fencing for axis deer and pigs. This included in Table 1. However, this current status of grizzly bears in the species is represented in ex situ notice and associated species lower 48 States (72 FR 19549–19551). collections. The threats from pigs, goats, assessment forms or 5-year review This status review, completed on cattle, axis deer, and nonnative plants documents also constitute the August 29, 2011, and available online are of a high magnitude because they are resubmitted petition findings for these at: http://ecos.fws.gov/speciesProfile/ sufficiently severe to adversely affect species. For the three grizzly bear profile/speciesProfile.action? the species throughout its limited range, populations, our recently completed 5- spcode=A001, recommended that resulting in direct mortality for a species year review serves as our assessment. reclassifying as endangered the Cabinet- that already has very low population For delta smelt and Sclerocactus Yaak, Selkirk, and North Cascades numbers, or significantly reducing brevispinus, our updated assessments Ecosystems remain warranted but reproductive capacity and leading to a are provided below. We find that precluded. relatively high likelihood of extinction. reclassification to endangered status for Delta smelt (Hypomesus The threats are imminent because they the three grizzly bear populations, delta transpacificus) (Region 8) (see 75 FR are ongoing. Therefore, we retained an smelt, and Sclerocactus brevispinus are 17667, April 7, 2010, for additional LPN of 2 for this species. all currently warranted but precluded information on why reclassification to Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis by work identified above (see ‘‘Findings endangered is warranted but (Palapalai)—The following summary is for Petitioned Candidate Species’’). One precluded)—The following summary is based on information contained in our of the primary reasons that the work based on information contained in our files. No new information was provided identified above is considered to have files. In April 2010, we completed a 12-

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month finding for delta smelt in which plant for horticultural use. Recreational in the future. We encourage State we determined a change in status from off-road vehicle use and livestock agencies, other Federal agencies, and threatened to endangered was trampling are additional potential other parties to give consideration to warranted, although precluded by other threats. The species is currently these species in environmental high-priority listings. The primary federally listed as threatened by its planning. evidence is the continuing downward previous inclusion within the species In Table 1, the ‘‘category’’ column on trend in delta smelt abundance indices Sclerocactus glaucus. The threats are of the left side of the table identifies the since the significant decline that a high magnitude because any one of the status of each species according to the occurred in 2002. A 2005 population threats has the potential to severely following codes: viability analysis calculated a 50- affect this species, a narrow endemic PE—Species proposed for listing as percent likelihood that the species with a highly limited range and endangered. Proposed species are those could reach effective extinction (8,000 distribution. Threats are ongoing and, species for which we have published a individuals) within 20 years. therefore, are imminent. Thus, we proposed rule to list as endangered or The primary threats to the delta smelt assigned an LPN of 2 to this species for threatened in the Federal Register. This are direct entrainments by State and uplisting. category does not include species for Federal water export facilities, summer which we have withdrawn or finalized and fall increases in salinity and water Current Notice of Review the proposed rule. clarity resulting from decreases in We gather data on plants and animals PT—Species proposed for listing as freshwater flow into the estuary, and native to the United States that appear threatened. effects from introduced species. to merit consideration for addition to PSAT—Species proposed for listing as Ammonia in the form of ammonium the Lists of Endangered and Threatened threatened due to similarity of may also be a significant threat to the Wildlife and Plants (Lists). This notice appearance. survival of the delta smelt. Additional identifies those species that we C—Candidates: Species for which we potential threats are predation by currently regard as candidates for have on file sufficient information on striped and largemouth bass and inland addition to the Lists. These candidates biological vulnerability and threats to silversides, entrainment into power include species and subspecies of fish, support proposals to list them as plants, contaminants, and small wildlife, or plants, and DPSes of endangered or threatened. Issuance of population size. Existing regulatory vertebrate animals. This compilation proposed rules for these species is mechanisms have not proven adequate relies on information from status precluded at present by other higher to halt the decline of delta smelt since surveys conducted for candidate priority listing actions. This category the time of listing as a threatened assessment and on information from includes species for which we made a species. State Natural Heritage Programs, other 12-month warranted-but-precluded As a result of our analysis of the best State and Federal agencies, finding on a petition to list. We made available scientific and commercial knowledgeable scientists, public and new findings on all petitions for which information, we have retained the private natural resource interests, and we previously made ‘‘warranted-but- recommendation of uplisting the delta comments received in response to precluded’’ findings. We identify the smelt to an endangered species with a previous notices of review. species for which we made a continued LPN of 2, based on high magnitude and Tables 1 and 2 list animals arranged warranted-but-precluded finding on a imminent threats. The magnitude of the alphabetically by common names under resubmitted petition by the code ‘‘C*’’ threats is high, because the threats occur the major group headings, and list in the category column (see ‘‘Findings rangewide and result in direct mortality plants alphabetically by names of for Petitioned Candidate Species’’ for a species that already has low genera, species, and relevant subspecies section for additional information). population numbers, or significantly and varieties. Animals are grouped by The ‘‘Priority’’ column indicates the reduce the reproductive capacity of the class or order. Plants are subdivided LPN for each candidate species, which species. Threats are imminent because into two groups: (1) Flowering plants we use to determine the most they are ongoing and, in some cases and (2) ferns and their allies. Useful appropriate use of our available (e.g., nonnative species), considered synonyms and subgeneric scientific resources. The lowest numbers have the irreversible. names appear in parentheses with the highest priority. We assign LPNs based Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette synonyms preceded by an ‘‘equals’’ on the immediacy and magnitude of cactus) (Region 6) (see 72 FR 53211, sign. Several species that have not yet threats, as well as on taxonomic status. September 18, 2007, and the species been formally described in the scientific We published a complete description of assessment form (see ADDRESSES) for literature are included; such species are our listing priority system in the additional information on why identified by a generic or specific name Federal Register (48 FR 43098, reclassification to endangered is (in italics), followed by ‘‘sp.’’ or ‘‘ssp.’’ September 21, 1983). warranted but precluded)—Sclerocactus We incorporate standardized common The third column, ‘‘Lead Region,’’ brevispinus is restricted to clay names in these notices as they become identifies the Regional Office to which badlands of the Wagon Hound member available. We sort plants by scientific you should direct information, of the Uinta Formation in the Uinta name due to the inconsistencies in comments, or questions (see addresses Basin of northeastern Utah. The species common names, the inclusion of under Request for Information at the is restricted to one population with an vernacular and composite subspecific end of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION overall range of approximately 10 miles names, and the fact that many plants section). by 5 miles in extent. The species’ entire still lack a standardized common name. Following the scientific name (fourth population is within a developed and Table 1 lists all candidate species, column) and the family designation expanding oil and gas field. The plus species currently proposed for (fifth column) is the common name location of the species’ habitat exposes listing under the ESA. We emphasize (sixth column). The seventh column it to destruction from road, pipeline, that in this notice we are not proposing provides the known historical range for and well-site construction in connection to list any of the candidate species; the species or vertebrate population (for with oil and gas development. The rather, we will develop and publish vertebrate populations, this is the species may be collected as a specimen proposed listing rules for these species historical range for the entire species or

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subspecies and not just the historical and historical range include information Region 5. Connecticut, Delaware, range for the distinct population as previously described for Table 1. District of Columbia, Maine, segment), indicated by postal code Maryland, Massachusetts, New Request for Information abbreviations for States and U.S. Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, territories. Many species no longer We request you submit any further Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, occur in all of the areas listed. information on the species named in Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional Species in Table 2 of this notice are this notice as soon as possible or Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife those we included either as proposed whenever it becomes available. We are Service, 300 Westgate Center Drive, species or as candidates in the previous particularly interested in any Hadley, MA 01035–9589 (413/253– CNOR (published October 26, 2011, at information: 8615). 76 FR 66370) that are no longer (1) Indicating that we should add a Region 6. Colorado, Kansas, Montana, proposed species or candidates for species to the list of candidate species; Nebraska, North Dakota, South listing. Since October 26, 2011, we (2) Indicating that we should remove Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Regional listed 41 species, withdrew a proposed a species from candidate status; Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife rule for one species, and removed 6 (3) Recommending areas that we Service, P.O. Box 25486, Denver species from candidate status for the should designate as critical habitat for a Federal Center, Denver, CO 80225– reason indicated by the code. The first species, or indicating that designation of 0486 (303/236–7400). column indicates the present status of critical habitat would not be prudent for each species, using the following codes a species; Region 7. Alaska. Regional Director (not all of these codes may have been (4) Documenting threats to any of the (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, used in this CNOR): included species; 1011 East Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK E—Species we listed as endangered. (5) Describing the immediacy or 99503–6199 (907/786–3505). magnitude of threats facing candidate T—Species we listed as threatened. Region 8. California and Nevada. Rc—Species we removed from the species; (6) Pointing out taxonomic or Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and candidate list because currently Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, available information does not support nomenclature changes for any of the species; Suite W2606, Sacramento, CA 95825 a proposed listing. (916/414–6464). Rp—Species we removed from (7) Suggesting appropriate common because we have withdrawn the names; and We will provide information received (8) Noting any mistakes, such as proposed listing. in response to the previous CNOR to the The second column indicates why we errors in the indicated historical ranges. Region having lead responsibility for Submit information, materials, or no longer regard the species as a each candidate species mentioned in the comments regarding a particular species candidate or proposed species using the submission. We will likewise consider to the Regional Director of the Region following codes (not all of these codes all information provided in response to identified as having the lead may have been used in this CNOR): this CNOR in deciding whether to responsibility for that species. The A—Species that are more abundant or propose species for listing and when to regional addresses follow: widespread than previously believed undertake necessary listing actions and species that are not subject to the Region 1. Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, (including whether emergency listing degree of threats sufficient to warrant Washington, American Samoa, Guam, under section 4(b)(7) of the ESA is continuing candidate status, or issuing a and Commonwealth of the Northern appropriate). Information and comments proposed or final listing. Mariana Islands. Regional Director we receive will become part of the F—Species whose range no longer (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, administrative record for the species, includes a U.S. territory. Eastside Federal Complex, 911 NE. which we maintain at the appropriate I—Species for which we have 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232– Regional Office. insufficient information on biological 4181 (503/231–6158). Before including your address, phone vulnerability and threats to support Region 2. Arizona, New Mexico, number, email address, or other issuance of a proposed rule to list. Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional L—Species we added to the Lists of Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife personal identifying information in your Endangered and Threatened Wildlife Service, 500 Gold Avenue SW., Room submission, be advised that your entire and Plants. 4012, Albuquerque, NM 87102 (505/ submission—including your personal M—Species we mistakenly included 248–6920). identifying information—may be made as candidates or proposed species in the Region 3. Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, publicly available at any time. Although last notice of review. Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, you can ask us in your submission to N—Species that are not listable and Wisconsin. Regional Director withhold from public review your entities based on the ESA’s definition of (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, personal identifying information, we ‘‘species’’ and current taxonomic 5600 American Blvd. West, Suite 990, cannot guarantee that we will be able to understanding. Bloomington, MN 55437–1458 (612/ do so. 713–5334). U—Species that are not subject to the Authority degree of threats sufficient to warrant Region 4. Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, issuance of a proposed listing or Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, This notice is published under the continuance of candidate status due, in Mississippi, North Carolina, South authority of the Endangered Species Act part or totally, to conservation efforts Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et that remove or reduce the threats to the the U.S. Virgin Islands. Regional seq.). species. Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife X—Species we believe to be extinct. Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Dated: November 6, 2012. The columns describing lead region, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30345 (404/ Rowan W. Gould, scientific name, family, common name, 679–4156). Deputy Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.

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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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

MAMMALS

PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Eumops floridanus ...... Molossidae ...... Bat, Florida bonneted .... U.S.A. (FL). C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Emballonura Emballonuridae ...... Bat, Pacific sheathtailed U.S.A. (GU, CNMI). semicaudata rotensis. (Mariana Islands sub- species). C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Emballonura Emballonuridae ...... Bat, Pacific sheath-tailed U.S.A. (AS), Fiji, Inde- semicaudata (American Samoa pendent Samoa, semicaudata. DPS). Tonga, Vanuatu. C* ...... 6 ...... R2 ...... Tamias minimus Sciuridae ...... Chipmunk, Pen˜asco U.S.A. (NM). atristriatus. least. 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* ...... 12 ...... R6 ...... Lynx canadensis ...... Felidae ...... Lynx, Canada (New U.S.A. (CO, ID, ME, MI, Mexico population). MN, MT, NH, NY, OR, UT, VT, WA, WI, WY), Canada. C* ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Zapus hudsonius luteus Zapodidae ...... Mouse, New Mexico U.S.A. (AZ, CO, NM). meadow jumping. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Thomomys mazama Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, Shelton U.S.A. (WA). couchi. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Thomomys mazama Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, Brush U.S.A. (WA). douglasii. Prairie. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Thomomys mazama Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, Roy U.S.A. (WA). glacialis. Prairie. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Thomomys mazama Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, U.S.A. (WA) louiei. Cathlamet. 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 Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, Tenino .. U.S.A. (WA). tumuli. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Thomomys mazama Geomyidae ...... Pocket gopher, Yelm ..... U.S.A. (WA). yelmensis. C* ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Cynomys gunnisoni ...... Sciuridae ...... Prairie dog, Gunnison’s U.S.A. (CO, NM). (populations in central and south-central Col- orado, north-central New Mexico). C* ...... 9 ...... R1 ...... Spermophilus brunneus Sciuridae ...... Squirrel, Southern Idaho U.S.A. (ID). endemicus. ground. C* ...... 5 ...... R1 ...... Spermophilus Sciuridae ...... Squirrel, Washington U.S.A. (WA, OR). washingtoni. ground. C* ...... 9 ...... R1 ...... Arborimus longicaudus .. Cricetidae ...... Vole, Red (north Oregon U.S.A. (OR). coast DPS). C* ...... 9 ...... R7 ...... Odobenus rosmarus Odobenidae ...... Walrus, Pacific ...... U.S.A. (AK), Canada, divergens. Russia. C* ...... 6 ...... R6 ...... Gulo gulo luscus ...... Mustelidae ...... Wolverine, North Amer- U.S.A. (CA, CO, ID, MT, ican (Contiguous U.S. OR, UT, WA, WY). DPS).

BIRDS

C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Porzana tabuensis ...... Rallidae ...... Crake, spotless (Amer- U.S.A. (AS), Australia, ican Samoa DPS). Fiji, Independent Samoa, Marquesas, Philippines, Society Is- lands, Tonga.

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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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

C* ...... 3 ...... R8 ...... Coccyzus americanus .... Cuculidae ...... Cuckoo, yellow-billed U.S.A. (Lower 48 (Western U.S. DPS). States), Canada, Mex- ico, Central and South America. C* ...... 9 ...... R1 ...... Gallicolumba stairi ...... Columbidae ...... Ground-dove, friendly U.S.A. (AS), Inde- (American Samoa pendent Samoa. DPS). PT ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Eremophila alpestris Alaudidae ...... Horned lark, streaked .... U.S.A. (OR, WA), Can- strigata. ada (BC). C* ...... 3 ...... R5 ...... Calidris canutus rufa ...... Scolopacidae ...... Knot, red ...... U.S.A. (Atlantic coast), Canada, South Amer- ica. C* ...... 8 ...... R7 ...... Gavia adamsii ...... Gaviidae ...... Loon, yellow-billed ...... U.S.A. (AK), Canada, Norway, Russia, coastal waters of southern Pacific and North Sea. C* ...... 8 ...... R7 ...... Brachyramphus Alcidae ...... Murrelet, Kittlitz’s ...... U.S.A. (AK), Russia. brevirostris. C* ...... 5 ...... R8 ...... Synthliboramphus Alcidae ...... Murrelet, Xantus’s ...... U.S.A. (CA), Mexico. hypoleucus. C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Anthus spragueii ...... Motacillidae ...... Pipit, Sprague’s ...... U.S.A. (AR, AZ, CO, KS, LA, MN, MS, MT, ND, NE, NM, OK, SD, TX), Canada, Mexico. C* ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Amazona viridigenalis .... Psittacidae ...... Parrot, red-crowned ...... U.S.A. (TX), Mexico. C* ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Tympanuchus Phasianidae ...... Prairie-chicken, lesser ... U.S.A. (CO, KA, NM, pallidicinctus. OK, TX). C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Centrocercus Phasianidae ...... Sage-grouse, greater ..... U.S.A. (AZ, CA, CO, ID, urophasianus. MT, ND, NE, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY), Canada (AB, BC, SK). C* ...... 3 ...... R8 ...... Centrocercus Phasianidae ...... Sage-grouse, greater U.S.A. (AZ, CA, CO, ID, urophasianus. (Bi-State DPS). MT, ND, NE, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY), Canada (AB, BC, SK). C* ...... 6 ...... R1 ...... Centrocercus Phasianidae ...... Sage-grouse, greater U.S.A. (AZ, CA, CO, ID, urophasianus. (Columbia Basin DPS). MT, ND, NE, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY), Canada (AB, BC, SK). C* ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Centrocercus minimus ... Phasianidae ...... Sage-grouse, Gunnison U.S.A. (AZ, CO, NM, UT). C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Oceanodroma castro ..... Hydrobatidae ...... Storm-petrel, band- U.S.A. (HI), Atlantic rumped (Hawaii DPS). Ocean, Ecuador (Ga- lapagos Islands), Japan. C* ...... 11 ...... R4 ...... Dendroica angelae ...... Emberizidae ...... Warbler, elfin-woods ...... U.S.A. (PR).

REPTILES

C* ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Thamnophis eques Colubridae ...... Gartersnake, northern U.S.A. (AZ, NM, NV), megalops. Mexican. Mexico. C* ...... 8 ...... R3 ...... Sistrurus catenatus ...... Viperidae ...... Massasauga (= rattle- U.S.A. (IA, IL, IN, MI, snake), eastern. MN, MO, 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 ...... Chionactis occipitalis Colubridae ...... Snake, Tucson shovel- U.S.A. (AZ). klauberi. nosed. C* ...... 5 ...... R2 ...... Gopherus morafkai ...... Testudinidae ...... Tortoise, Sonoran desert U.S.A. (AZ, CA, NV, UT). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Gopherus polyphemus ... Testudinidae ...... Tortoise, gopher (east- U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA, LA, ern population). MS, SC). C* ...... 6 ...... R2 ...... Kinosternon sonoriense Kinosternidae ...... Turtle, Sonoyta mud ...... U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico. longifemorale.

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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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

AMPHIBIANS

C* ...... 9 ...... R8 ...... Rana luteiventris ...... Ranidae ...... Frog, Columbia spotted U.S.A. (AK, ID, MT, NV, (Great Basin DPS). OR, UT, WA, WY), Canada (BC). C* ...... 3 ...... R8 ...... Rana muscosa ...... Ranidae ...... Frog, mountain yellow- U.S.A (CA, NV). legged (Sierra Nevada DPS). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Rana pretiosa ...... Ranidae ...... Frog, Oregon spotted .... U.S.A. (CA, OR, WA), Canada (BC). C* ...... 8 ...... R8 ...... Lithobates onca ...... Ranidae ...... Frog, relict leopard ...... U.S.A. (AZ, NV, UT). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Notophthalmus Salamandridae ...... Newt, striped ...... U.S.A. (FL, GA). perstriatus. PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Eurycea waterlooensis ... Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, Austin blind U.S.A. (TX). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Gyrinophilus gulolineatus Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, Berry Cave U.S.A. (TN). PE ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Eurycea naufragia ...... Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, George- U.S.A. (TX). town. PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Plethodon neomexicanus Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, Jemez U.S. A. (NM). Mountains. PE ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Eurycea tonkawae ...... Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, Jollyville U.S.A. (TX). Plateau. PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Eurycea chisholmensis .. Plethodontidae ...... Salamander, Salado ...... U.S.A. (TX). C* ...... 11 ...... R8 ...... Anaxyrus canorus ...... Bufonidae ...... Toad, Yosemite ...... U.S.A. (CA). C ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Hyla wrightorum ...... Hylidae ...... Treefrog, Arizona U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico (So- (Huachuca/Canelo nora). DPS). C* ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Necturus alabamensis ... Proteidae ...... Waterdog, black warrior U.S.A. (AL). (= Sipsey Fork).

FISHES

C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Gila nigra ...... Cyprinidae ...... Chub, headwater ...... U.S.A. (AZ, NM). C* ...... 7 ...... R6 ...... Iotichthys phlegethontis Cyprinidae ...... Chub, least ...... U.S.A. (UT). C* ...... 9 ...... R2 ...... Gila robusta ...... Cyprinidae ...... Chub, roundtail (Lower U.S.A. (AZ, CO, NM, Colorado River Basin UT, WY). DPS). C* ...... 11 ...... R6 ...... Etheostoma cragini ...... Percidae ...... Darter, Arkansas ...... U.S.A. (AR, CO, KS, MO, OK). C ...... 9 ...... R4 ...... Etheostoma sagitta Percidae ...... Darter, Cumberland U.S.A. (KY, TN). sagitta. arrow. PE ...... 2 ...... R5 ...... Crystallaria cincotta ...... Percidae ...... Darter, diamond ...... U.S.A. (KY, OH, TN, WV). C ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Etheostoma sagitta Percidae ...... Darter, Kentucky arrow .. U.S.A. (KY). spilotum. C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Percina aurora ...... Percidae ...... Darter, Pearl ...... U.S.A. (LA, MS). C* ...... 3 ...... R6 ...... Thymallus arcticus ...... Salmonidae ...... Grayling, Arctic (upper U.S.A. (AK, MI, MT, Missouri River DPS). WY), Canada, north- ern Asia, northern Eu- rope. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Moxostoma sp ...... Catostomidae ...... Redhorse, sicklefin ...... U.S.A. (GA, NC, TN). PE ...... 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 ...... R8 ...... Spirinchus thaleichthys .. Osmeridae ...... Smelt, longfin (San Fran- U.S.A. (AK, CA, OR, cisco bay-delta DPS). WA), Canada. C* ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Catostomus discobolus Catostomidae ...... Sucker, Zuni bluehead ... U.S.A. (AZ, NM). yarrowi. PT ...... R4 ...... Elassoma ...... Elassomatidae ...... Sunfish, spring pygmy ... U.S.A. (AL). alabamae ...... PSAT ..... N/A ...... R1 ...... Salvelinus malma ...... Salmonidae ...... Trout, Dolly Varden ...... U.S.A. (AK, WA), Can- ada, East Asia. C* ...... 9 ...... R2 ...... Oncorhynchus clarki Salmonidae ...... Trout, Rio Grande cut- U.S.A. (CO, NM). virginalis. throat.

CLAMS

C* ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Lampsilis bracteata ...... Unionidae ...... Fatmucket, Texas ...... U.S.A. (TX). C* ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Truncilla macrodon ...... Unionidae ...... Fawnsfoot, Texas ...... 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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Popenaias popei ...... Unionidae ...... Hornshell, Texas ...... U.S.A. (NM, TX), Mex- ico. PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Ptychobranchus Unionidae ...... Kidneyshell, fluted ...... U.S.A. (AL, KY, TN, VA). subtentum. PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Lampsilis rafinesqueana Unionidae ...... Mucket, Neosho ...... U.S.A. (AR, KS, MO, OK). C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Quadrula aurea ...... Unionidae ...... Orb, golden ...... U.S.A. (TX). PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Lexingtonia dolabelloides Unionidae ...... Pearlymussel, slabside .. U.S.A. (AL, KY, TN, VA). C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Quadrula houstonensis .. Unionidae ...... Pimpleback, smooth ...... U.S.A. (TX). C* ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Quadrula petrina ...... Unionidae ...... Pimpleback, Texas ...... U.S.A. (TX). PT ...... 9 ...... R4 ...... Quadrula cylindrica Unionidae ...... Rabbitsfoot ...... U.S.A. (AL, AR, GA, IN, cylindrica. IL, KS, KY, LA, MS, MO, OK, OH, PA, TN, WV).

SNAILS

C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Elimia melanoides ...... Pleuroceridae ...... Mudalia, black ...... U.S.A. (AL). C* ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Planorbella magnifica .... Planorbidae ...... Ramshorn, magnificent .. U.S.A. (NC). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Ostodes strigatus ...... Potaridae ...... Sisi snail ...... U.S.A. (AS). PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Pseudotryonia Hydrobiidae ...... Snail, Diamond Y Spring U.S.A. (TX). adamantina. 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). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Partulina semicarinata ... Achatinellidae ...... Snail, Lanai tree ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 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). PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Cochliopa texana ...... Hydrobiidae ...... Snail, Phantom cave ...... U.S.A. (TX). PE ...... 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). PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Tryonia circumstriata (= Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, Gonzales .... U.S.A. (TX). stocktonensis). C* ...... 11 ...... R2 ...... Pyrgulopsis thompsoni ... Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, Huachuca ... U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico. C* ...... 11 ...... R2 ...... Pyrgulopsis morrisoni .... Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, Page ...... U.S.A. (AZ). PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Tryonia cheatumi ...... Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail (= Tryonia), U.S.A. (TX). Phantom. C* ...... 5 ...... R2 ...... Sonorella rosemontensis Helminthoglyptidae ...... Talussnail, Rosemont .... U.S.A. (AZ).

INSECTS

C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus anthracinus ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus assimulans ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus facilis ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus hilaris ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus kuakea ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus longiceps ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Hylaeus mana ...... Colletidae ...... Bee, Hawaiian yellow- U.S.A. (HI). faced. PSAT ...... R8 ...... Plebejus lupine texanus Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Lupine ...... U.S.A. (AZ, CA, CO, NE, NM, NV, TX, UT), Mexico. PE ...... 3 ...... R8 ...... Plebejus shasta Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Mt. Charleston ...... U.S.A. (NV). charlestonensis. PSAT ...... R8 ...... Echinargus isola ...... Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Reakirt’s ...... U.S.A. (AR, AZ, CA, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, ND, NE, NM, NV, OH, OK, SD, TN, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY), Mexico. PSAT ...... R8 ...... Euphilotes ancilla Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Spring Mountains U.S.A. (NV). cryptica. dark.

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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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

PSAT ...... R8 ...... Euphilotes ancilla pur- Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Spring Mountains U.S.A. (NV). pura. dark. PSAT ...... R8 ...... Plebejus icarioides Lycaenidae ...... Blue, Spring Mountains U.S.A. (NV). austinorum. icariodes. C ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Strymon acis bartrami .... Lycaenidae ...... Butterfly, Bartram’s U.S.A. (FL). hairstreak. C ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Anaea troglodyta Nymphalidae ...... Butterfly, Florida U.S.A. (FL). floridalis. leafwing. C* ...... 5 ...... R8 ...... Hermelycaena [Lycaena] Lycaenidae ...... Butterfly, Hermes copper U.S.A. (CA). hermes. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Hypolimnas octucula Nymphalidae ...... Butterfly, Mariana eight- U.S.A. (GU, MP). mariannensis. spot. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Vagrans egistina ...... Nymphalidae ...... Butterfly, Mariana wan- U.S.A. (GU, MP). dering. C* ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Atlantea tulita ...... Nymphalidae ...... Butterfly, Puerto Rican U.S.A. (PR). harlequin. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Glyphopsyche Limnephilidae ...... Caddisfly, Sequatchie .... U.S.A. (TN). sequatchie. C ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Baker Sta- U.S.A. (TN). insularis. tion (= insular). C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Clifton ...... U.S.A. (KY). caecus. C* ...... 11 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Coleman ... U.S.A. (TN). colemanensis. C ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Fowler’s .... U.S.A. (TN). fowlerae. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, icebox ...... U.S.A. (KY). frigidus. C ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Indian U.S.A. (TN). tiresias. Grave Point (= Sooth- sayer). C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus in- Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, inquirer ..... U.S.A. (TN). quisitor. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Louisville ... U.S.A. (KY). troglodytes. C ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Noblett’s ... U.S.A. (TN). paulus. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Pseudanophthalmus Carabidae ...... Cave beetle, Tatum ...... U.S.A. (KY). parvus. PE ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Euphydryas editha Nymphalidae ...... Checkerspot butterfly, U.S.A. (OR, WA), Can- taylori. Taylor’s (= Whulge). ada (BC). C* ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Megalagrion Coenagrionidae ...... Damselfly, orangeblack U.S.A. (HI). xanthomelas. Hawaiian. C ...... 2 ...... R8 ...... Ambrysus funebris ...... Naucoridae ...... Naucorid bug (= Furnace U.S.A. (CA). Creek), Nevares Spring. PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Drosophila digressa ...... Drosophilidae ...... fly, Hawaiian Picture- U.S.A. (HI). wing. C* ...... 11 ...... 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 ...... 2 ...... R3 ...... Oarisma poweshiek ...... Hesperiidae ...... Skipperling, Poweshiek .. U.S.A. (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, ND, SD, WI), Canada (MB). C* ...... 5 ...... R6 ...... Capnia arapahoe ...... Capniidae ...... Snowfly, Arapahoe ...... U.S.A. (CO). C* ...... 5 ...... R6 ...... Lednia tumana ...... Nemouridae ...... Stonefly, meltwater U.S.A. (MT). lednian. PT ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Cicindela albissima ...... Cicindelidae ...... Tiger beetle, Coral Pink U.S.A. (UT). Sand Dunes. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Cicindela highlandensis Cicindelidae ...... Tiger beetle, highlands .. U.S.A. (FL).

ARACHNIDS

C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Cicurina wartoni ...... Dictynidae ...... Meshweaver, Warton’s U.S.A. (TX). cave.

CRUSTACEANS

PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Gammarus hyalleloides Gammaridae ...... Amphipod, diminutive .... 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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

PE ...... R2 ...... Gammarus pecos ...... Gammaridae ...... Amphipod, Pecos ...... U.S.A. (TX). C ...... 8 ...... R5 ...... Stygobromus kenki ...... Crangonyctidae ...... Amphipod, Kenk’s ...... U.S.A. (DC). 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). PE ...... 4 ...... R1 ...... Vetericaris chaceorum ... Procaridae ...... Shrimp, anchialine pool U.S.A. (HI).

FLOWERING PLANTS

C* ...... 11 ...... R8 ...... Abronia alpina ...... Nyctaginaceae ...... Sand-verbena, U.S.A. (CA). Ramshaw Meadows. C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Agave eggersiana ...... Agavaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (VI). 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 borealis var. Asteraceae ...... Wormwood, northern ..... U.S.A. (OR, WA). wormskioldii. C* ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Astragalus anserinus ..... Fabaceae ...... Milkvetch, Goose Creek U.S.A. (ID, NV, UT). C ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Astragalus cusickii var. Fabaceae ...... Milkvetch, Packard’s ...... U.S.A. (ID). packardiae. C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Astragalus microcymbus Fabaceae ...... Milkvetch, skiff ...... U.S.A. (CO). C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Astragalus schmolliae .... Fabaceae ...... Milkvetch, Schmoll ...... U.S.A. (CO). C* ...... 11 ...... R6 ...... Astragalus tortipes ...... Fabaceae ...... Milkvetch, Sleeping Ute U.S.A. (CO). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Bidens amplectens ...... Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Bidens campylotheca Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). pentamera. PE ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Bidens campylotheca Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). waihoiensis. PE ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Bidens conjuncta ...... Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Bidens hillenbrandiana Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). hillebrandina. PE ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Bidens micrantha Asteraceae ...... Ko‘oko‘olau ...... U.S.A. (HI). ctenophylla. C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Boechera (Arabis) pusilla Brassicaceae ...... Rockcress, Fremont U.S.A. (WY). County or small. 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). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Calamagrostis Poaceae ...... Reedgrass, Hillebrand’s U.S.A. (HI). hillebrandii. C* ...... 11 ...... R8 ...... Calochortus persistens .. Liliaceae ...... Mariposa lily, Siskiyou ... U.S.A. (CA, OR). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Canavalia pubescens .... Fabaceae ...... ‘Awikiwiki ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 9 ...... R4 ...... Chamaecrista lineata Fabaceae ...... Pea, Big Pine partridge U.S.A. (FL). var. 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. C* ...... 6 ...... R8 ...... Chorizanthe parryi var. Polygonaceae ...... Spineflower, San Fer- U.S.A. (CA). fernandina. nando Valley. PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Chromolaena frustrata ... Asteraceae ...... Thoroughwort, Cape U.S.A. (FL). Sable. C* ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Cirsium wrightii ...... Asteraceae ...... Thistle, Wright’s ...... U.S.A. (AZ, NM), Mex- ico. PE ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Consolea corallicola ...... Cactaceae ...... Cactus, Florida sema- U.S.A. (FL). phore. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Cordia rupicola ...... Boraginaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (PR), Anegada. PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyanea asplenifolia ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea duvalliorum ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea horrida ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyanea kunthiana ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea magnicalyx ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea maritae ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea mauiensis ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea marksii ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea munroi ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyanea obtusa ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea profuga ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyanea solanacea ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyanea tritomantha ...... Campanulaceae ...... ‘Aku ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra ferripilosa ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... 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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra filipes ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). nanawaleensis. PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra oxybapha ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra wagneri ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Dalea carthagenensis Fabaceae ...... Prairie-clover, Florida ..... U.S.A. (FL). var. floridana. C* ...... 5 ...... R5 ...... Dichanthelium hirstii ...... Poaceae ...... Panic grass, Hirst Broth- U.S.A. (DE, GA, NC, ers’. NJ). C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Digitaria pauciflora ...... Poaceae ...... Crabgrass, Florida pine- U.S.A. (FL). land. PE ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Echinomastus Cactaceae ...... Cactus, Acuna ...... U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico. erectocentrus var. acunensis. PT ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Eriogonum codium ...... Polygonaceae ...... Buckwheat, Umtanum U.S.A. (WA). Desert. C* ...... 6 ...... R8 ...... Eriogonum corymbosum Polygonaceae ...... Buckwheat, Las Vegas .. U.S.A. (NV). var. nilesii. C ...... 5 ...... R8 ...... Eriogonum diatomaceum Polygonaceae ...... Buckwheat, Churchill U.S.A (NV). Narrows. C* ...... 5 ...... R8 ...... Eriogonum kelloggii ...... Polygonaceae ...... Buckwheat, Red Moun- U.S.A. (CA). tain. C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Eriogonum soredium ...... Polygonaceae ...... Buckwheat, Frisco ...... U.S.A. (UT). 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. PE ...... R1 ...... Festuca molokaiensis .... Poaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Gardenia remyi ...... Rubiaceae ...... Nanu ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Geranium hanaense ...... Geraniaceae ...... Nohoanu ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Geranium hillebrandii ..... Geraniaceae ...... Nohoanu ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Gonocalyx concolor ...... Ericaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (PR). PE ...... 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* ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Helianthus verticillatus ... Asteraceae ...... Sunflower, whorled ...... U.S.A. (AL, GA, TN). PT ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Hibiscus dasycalyx ...... Malvaceae ...... Rose-mallow, Neches U.S.A. (TX). River. 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. C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Leavenworthia crassa .... Brassicaceae ...... Gladecress, unnamed .... U.S.A. (AL). C ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Leavenworthia exigua Brassicaceae ...... Gladecress, Kentucky .... U.S.A. (KY). var. laciniata. PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Leavenworthia texana .... Brassicaceae ...... Gladecress, Texas gold- U.S.A. (TX). en. C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Lepidium ostleri ...... Brassicaceae ...... Peppergrass, Ostler’s .... U.S.A. (UT). C* ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Linum arenicola ...... Linaceae ...... Flax, sand ...... U.S.A. (FL). C* ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Linum carteri var. carteri Linaceae ...... Flax, Carter’s small-flow- U.S.A. (FL). ered. C ...... 3 ...... R8 ...... Mimulus fremontii var. Phrymaceae ...... Monkeyflower, Vanden- U.S.A. (CA). vandenbergensis. berg. PE ...... R1 ...... Mucuna sloanei var. Fabaceae ...... Sea bean ...... U.S.A. (HI). persericea. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Myrsine fosbergii ...... Myrsinaceae ...... Kolea ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Myrsine vaccinioides ...... Myrsinaceae ...... Kolea ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Nothocestrum latifolium Solanaceae ...... ‘Aiea ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Ochrosia haleakalae ...... Apocynaceae ...... Holei ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 3 ...... R2 ...... Pediocactus Cactaceae ...... Cactus, Fickeisen plains U.S.A. (AZ). peeblesianus var. fickeiseniae. PT ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Penstemon grahamii ...... Scrophulariaceae ...... Beardtongue, Graham’s U.S.A. (CO, UT). C* ...... 9 ...... R6 ...... Penstemon scariosus Scrophulariaceae ...... Beardtongue, White U.S.A. (CO, UT). var. albifluvis. River. PE ...... 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. PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Phyllostegia bracteata ... Lamiaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Phyllostegia floribunda ... Lamiaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Phyllostegia haliakalae .. Lamiaceae ...... 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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Category Priority region

PE ...... R1 ...... Phyllostegia pilosa ...... Lamiaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PT ...... 9 ...... R1 ...... Physaria douglasii Brassicaceae ...... Bladderpod, White Bluffs U.S.A. (WA). tuplashensis. C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Physaria globosa ...... Brassicaceae ...... Bladderpod, Short’s ...... U.S.A. (IN, KY, TN). C* ...... 2 ...... R6 ...... Pinus albicaulis ...... Pinaceae ...... Pine, whitebark ...... U.S.A. (CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY), Can- ada (AB, BC). PE ...... R1 ...... Pittosporum halophilum Pittosporaceae ...... Hoawa ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Pittosporum hawaiiense Pittosporaceae ...... Hoawa ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Platanthera integrilabia .. Orchidaceae ...... Orchid, white fringeless U.S.A. (AL, GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Platydesma remyi ...... Rutaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Pleomele fernaldii ...... Agavaceae ...... Hala pepe ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 11 ...... R8 ...... Potentilla basaltica ...... Rosaceae ...... Cinquefoil, Soldier U.S.A. (NV). Meadow. PE ...... R1 ...... Pritchardia lanigera ...... Arecaceae ...... Loulu ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Pseudognaphalium (= Asteraceae ...... ‘Ena‘ena ...... U.S.A. (HI). Gnaphalium) sandwicensium var. molokaiense. 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 ...... R1 ...... Schiedea diffusa Caryophyllaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). macraei. PE ...... R1 ...... Schiedea hawaiiensis .... Caryophyllaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Schiedea jacobii ...... Caryophyllaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Schiedea laui ...... Caryophyllaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Schiedea pubescens ..... Caryophyllaceae ...... Ma‘oli‘oli ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Schiedea salicaria ...... Caryophyllaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 5 ...... R8 ...... Sedum eastwoodiae ...... Crassulaceae ...... Stonecrop, Red Moun- U.S.A. (CA). tain. C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Sicyos macrophyllus ...... Cucurbitaceae ...... ‘Anunu ...... U.S.A. (HI). C ...... 12 ...... R4 ...... Sideroxylon reclinatum Sapotaceae ...... Bully, Everglades ...... U.S.A. (FL). austrofloridense. C* ...... 2 ...... R4 ...... Solanum conocarpum .... Solanaceae ...... Bacora, marron ...... U.S.A. (PR). C* ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Solanum nelsonii ...... Solanaceae ...... Popolo ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Solidago plumosa ...... Asteraceae ...... Goldenrod, Yadkin River U.S.A. (NC). PE ...... 2 ...... R2 ...... Sphaeralcea gierischii .... Malvaceae ...... Mallow, Gierisch ...... U.S.A. (AZ, UT). PE ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Stenogyne cranwelliae ... Lamiaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). PE ...... R1 ...... Stenogyne kauaulaensis Lamiaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). C ...... 8 ...... R2 ...... Streptanthus bracteatus Brassicaceae ...... Twistflower, bracted ...... U.S.A. (TX). C* ...... 8 ...... R4 ...... Symphyotrichum Asteraceae ...... Aster, Georgia ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA, NC, georgianum. SC). C* ...... 8 ...... R6 ...... Trifolium friscanum ...... Fabaceae ...... Clover, Frisco ...... U.S.A. (UT). PE ...... R1 ...... Wikstroemia villosa ...... Thymelaeaceae ...... Akia ...... U.S.A. (HI).

FERNS AND ALLIES

C* ...... 8 ...... R1 ...... Cyclosorus boydiae ...... Thelypteridaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). C* ...... 2 ...... R1 ...... Huperzia (= Lycopodiaceae ...... Wawae‘iole ...... U.S.A. (HI). Phlegmariurus) stemmermanniae. C* ...... 3 ...... R1 ...... Microlepia strigosa var. Dennstaedtiaceae ...... Palapalai ...... U.S.A. (HI). mauiensis (= Microlepia mauiensis). C ...... 3 ...... R4 ...... Trichomanes punctatum Hymenophyllaceae ...... Florida bristle fern ...... U.S.A. (FL). floridanum.

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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 Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Code Expl. region

REPTILES

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

AMPHIBIANS

E ...... L ...... R3 ...... Cryptobranchus Crytobranchidae ...... Hellbender, Ozark ...... U.S.A. (AR, MO). alleganiensis bishopi. E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Eleutherodactylus Leptodactylidae ...... Coqui, Llanero ...... U.S.A. (PR). juanariveroi.

CLAMS

E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Villosa choctawensis ...... Unionidae ...... Bean, Choctaw ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). E ...... L ...... R3 ...... Villosa fabalis ...... Unionidae ...... Bean, rayed ...... U.S.A. (IL, IN, KY, MI, NY, OH, TN, PA, VA, WV), Canada (ON). E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Fusconaia rotulata ...... Unionidae ...... Ebonyshell, round ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Ptychobranchus jonesi ... Unionidae ...... Kidneyshell, southern .... U.S.A. (AL, FL). E ...... L ...... R3 ...... Plethobasus cyphyus ..... Unionidae ...... Mussel, sheepnose ...... U.S.A. (AL, IA, IL, IN, KY, MN, MO, MS, OH, PA, TN, VA, WI, WV). E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Margaritifera marrianae Margaritiferidae ...... Pearlshell, Alabama ...... U.S.A. (AL). T ...... L ...... R4 ...... Pleurobema strodeanum Unionidae ...... Pigtoe, fuzzy ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). T ...... L ...... R4 ...... Fusconaia escambia ...... Unionidae ...... Pigtoe, narrow ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). T ...... L ...... R4 ...... Fusconaia (= Unionidae ...... Pigtoe, tapered ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). Quincuncina) burkei. T ...... 5 ...... R4 ...... Hamiota (= Lampsilis) Unionidae ...... Sandshell, southern ...... U.S.A. (AL, FL). australis. E ...... L ...... R3 ...... Epioblasma triquetra ...... Unionidae ...... Snuffbox ...... U.S.A. (IN, MI, NY, OH, PA, WV), Canada (ON). E ...... L ...... R3 ...... Cumberlandia Margaritiferidae ...... Spectaclecase ...... U.S.A. (AL, AR, IA, IN, monodonta. IL, KS, KY, MO, MN, NE, OH, TN, VA, WI, WV). E ...... L ...... R4 ...... Elliptio spinosa ...... Unionidae ...... Spinymussel, Altamaha U.S.A. (GA).

SNAILS

E ...... L ...... R2 ...... Pyrgulopsis bernardina .. Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, San U.S.A. (AZ), Mexico (So- Bernardino. nora). E ...... L ...... R2 ...... Pyrgulopsis chupaderae Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, Chupadera U.S.A. (NM). Rc ...... U ...... R8 ...... Pyrgulopsis notidicola .... Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, elongate U.S.A. (NV). mud meadows. E ...... L ...... R2 ...... Pyrgulopsis trivialis ...... Hydrobiidae ...... Springsnail, Three Forks U.S.A. (AZ).

INSECTS

E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Megalagrion Coenagrionidae ...... Damselfly, blackline Ha- U.S.A. (HI). nigrohamatum waiian. nigrolineatum. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Megalagrion leptodemas Coenagrionidae ...... Damselfly, crimson Ha- U.S.A. (HI). waiian. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Megalagrion oceanicum Coenagrionidae ...... Damselfly, oceanic Ha- U.S.A. (HI). waiian. Rc ...... U ...... R1 ...... Polites mardon ...... Hesperiidae ...... Skipper, Mardon ...... U.S.A. (CA, OR, WA).

FLOWERING PLANTS

E ...... L ...... R8 ...... Arctostaphylos Ericaceae ...... Manzanita, Franciscan ... U.S.A. (CA). franciscana. Rc ...... U ...... R1 ...... Castilleja christii ...... Scrophulariaceae ...... Paintbrush, Christ’s ...... U.S.A. (ID). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyanea calycina ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyanea lanceolata ...... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyanea purpurellifolia .... Campanulaceae ...... Haha ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra gracilis ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra kaulantha ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra sessilis ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI).

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TABLE 2—ANIMALS AND PLANTS FORMERLY CANDIDATES OR FORMERLY PROPOSED FOR LISTING—Continued [Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table.]

Status Lead Scientific name Family Common name Historical range Code Expl. region

E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Cyrtandra waiolani ...... Gesneriaceae ...... Ha‘iwale ...... U.S.A. (HI). Rc ...... A ...... R2 ...... Erigeron lemmonii ...... Asteraceae ...... Fleabane, Lemmon ...... U.S.A. (AZ). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Korthalsella degeneri ..... Viscaceae ...... Hulumoa ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Melicope Rutaceae ...... Alani ...... U.S.A. (HI). christophersenii. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Melicope hiiakae ...... Rutaceae ...... Alani ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Melicope makahae ...... Rutaceae ...... Alani ...... U.S.A. (HI). Rc ...... A ...... R5 ...... Narthecium americanum Liliaceae ...... Asphodel, bog ...... U.S.A. (DE, NC, NJ, NY, SC). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Platydesma cornuta var. Rutaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). cornuta. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Platydesma cornuta var. Rutaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). decurrens. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Pleomele forbesii ...... Agavaceae ...... Hala pepe ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Psychotria hexandra Rubiaceae ...... Kopiko ...... U.S.A. (HI). oahuensis. E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Pteralyxia macrocarpa ... Apocynaceae ...... Kaulu ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Tetraplasandra lydgatei Araliaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI). E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Zanthoxylum oahuense Rutaceae ...... A‘e ...... U.S.A. (HI).

FERNS AND ALLIES

E ...... L ...... R1 ...... Doryopteris takeuchii ..... Pteridaceae ...... No common name ...... U.S.A. (HI).

[FR Doc. 2012–28050 Filed 11–20–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310–55–P

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