ML18023A197

From kanterella
Jump to navigation Jump to search
McKerrow-1996- TN5302 - Fws 1996 Cumberland Sandwort - Recovery Plan
ML18023A197
Person / Time
Site: Clinch River
Issue date: 06/20/1996
From:
State of TN, Dept of Environment & Conservation, US Dept of Interior, Fish & Wildlife Service
To:
Office of New Reactors
Fetter A
References
Download: ML18023A197 (36)
v • d • e


Text

Cumberland Sandwort (Arenaria cumberlandensis)

Recovery Plan U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region Atlanta, Georgia

RECOVERY PLAN for Cumberland Saudwort (Arenaria cumberlandensis)

Prepared by Alexa MeKerrow Tennessee Department ofEnvironment and Conservation Nashville, Tennessee for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region Atlanta, Georgia Approved: 1 Noreen K. Clough, Regional Dire~, Southeast Region U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Date:

67

Recovery plans delineate reasonable actions that are believed to be required to recover and/or protect listed species. Plans are published by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, sometimes prepared with the assistance ofrecovery teams, contractors, State agencies, and others. Objectives will be attained and any necessary funds made available subject to budgetary and other constraints affecting the parties involved, as well as the need to address other priorities. Recovery plans do not necessarily represent the views nor the official positions or approval of any individuals or agencies involved in the plan formulation, other than the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They represent the official position of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ~mi~ after they have been signed by the Regional Director or Director as approved. Approved recovery plans are subject to modifications as dictated by new findings, changes in species status, and the completion ofrecovery tasks.

Literature citations should read as follows:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1996. Cumberland Sandwort Recovery Plan.

Atlanta, GA. 28 pp.

Additional copies may be purchased from:

Fish and Wildlife Reference Service 5430 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 110 Bethesda, Maryland 20814 Phone: 301/492-6403 or 1-800/582-3421 The fees for recovery plans vary, depending upon the number ofpages.

ii

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thanks to Andrea Shea and Milo Pyne ofthe Tennessee Heritage Program; Dr. Robert Kral, Vanderbilt University; Dr. Eugene Wofford, University of Tennessee Knoxville; Robert Emmott, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area; Margaret Shea, Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission; Virginia Small and Billy Glen Smith, Pickett State Park; Billy Swafford, Pickett State Forest; and Chris Dietrich and David Knechtle, Missouri Botanical Garden, forthe information they provided.

iii

EXECUTIVE

SUMMARY

Current Status: Arenaria cumberlandensis (Cumberland sandwort) is listed as endangered. There are 28 extant occurrences of the species, 27 in Tennessee and one in Kentucky. One additional Kentucky occurrence is presumed extirpated (Libby 1994). At the time the species was added to the Federal list, there were about 12 known occurrences that were grouped into five populations (one in Kentucky and 11 in Tennessee). Threats to Cumberland sandwort include trampling by recreational users and habitat alteration caused by timber harvesting on adjacent land.

Habitat Requirements and Limiting Factors: Cumberland sandwort is restricted to sandstone ledges and rock houses in the Cumberland Plateau Province of south-central Kentucky and north-central Tennessee. Specialized habitat requirements, in combination with habitat alteration, appear to be the primary limiting factors for the species.

Recovery Objective: Delisting Recovery Criteria: Cumberland sandwort will be considered for reclassification from endangered to threatened status when 30 geographically distinct, self-sustaining occurrences are protected and managed for the species benefit in four counties in Tennessee and Kentucky and have maintained stable or increasing numbers for 5 consecutive years. The species will be considered for delisting when 40 geographically distinct, self-sustaining occurrences are protected and have maintained stable or increasing numbers for 5 consecutive years. In order to maintain a balanced geographic distribution for the species, at least 12 ofthese occurrences must be in counties other than Pickett County, Tennessee.

Actions Needed:

1. Protect existing occurrences and essential habitat and search for additional populations.
2. Determine and implement the management necessary for long-term reproduction, establishment, maintenance, and vigor.
3. Maintain a cultivated source of plants and provide for long-term seed storage.
4. Enforce laws protecting the species and/or its habitat.
5. Develop materials to inform the public about the status ofthe species and the recovery plan objectives.

iv

Costs ($OOOs):

1 YEAR IINEEDI ~NEED2 INEED3 INEED4 INEED5IITOTALS~

1996 6.0 25.0 12.0

  • 3.0 46.0 1997 30.0 23.0. 0.5
  • 0.5 54.0 1998 30.0 29.0 0.5
  • 0.5 60.0 1999 10.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 24.0 2000 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 2001 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 2002 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 2003 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 2004 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 2005 0.0 13.0 0.5
  • 0.5 14.0 TOTALS 76.0 168.0 16.5
  • 7.5 268.0
  • Un~own Date of Recovery: 2005, provided that funds are available to accomplish the required recovery tasks and that the recovery criteria are met.

v

TABLE OF CONTENTS

~ag~

PARTI:

iNTRODUCTION 1 Description, History, and Distribution 1 Habitat, Life History, and Threats 4 Conservation Measures and Recovery Strategy 9 PART II:

RECOVERY 10 A. Recovery Objectives 10 B. Narrative Outline 11 C. Literature Cited 16 PART III:

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE 17 PART IV:

LIST OF RECIPIENTS 20 vi

LIST OF FIGURES

1. Illustration ofArenaria cumberlandensis 2
2. Distribution of Cumberland Sandwort in Kentucky and Tennessee 5 LIST OF TABLES
1. Extant occurrences ofArenaria cumberlandensis (Cumberland sandwort) in Kentucky and Tennessee 6 vii

PART I iNTRODUCTION Arenaria cumberlandensis (Cumberland sandwort) was described as a new species by Wofford and Kral (1979). This perennial, herbaceous member of the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae) is 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) tall and has small white-petaled flowers and relatively long narrow leaves. The species is known from the Cumberland Plateau of south-central Kentucky and north-central Tennessee. It was added to the Federal list of endangered species in 1988 (U.S Fish and Wildlife Service [Service] 1988). At the time of listing, the plant was known from five sites (one in Kentucky and four in Tennessee); these sites were believed to consist of about 12 occurrences. The sandstone rock houses where Cumberland sandwort is found make the species susceptible to trampling by hikers and other recreational users of its habitat. Habitat destruction by collectors ofIndian artifacts and the negative effects ofthe alteration of site hydrology and erosion due to timbering of surrounding forests also adversely affect orthreaten the species.

New occurrences ofthe species have been discovered since 1988. At this time there are 27 known occurrences in Tennessee and one in Kentucky. Ofthose in Tennessee, 20 are within 2 miles ofeach other. All ofthe sites occur within 25 miles of each other.

Description. Historv. and Distribution The following description of Cumberland sandwort is modified from Kral (1983) and Wofford and Kral (1979). This species is a delicate perennial that occurs in tufts (Figure 1, page 2). The upright stems are 10 to 15 centimeters (cm) tall (3.9 to 6.25 inches), are slender and triangular in shape, and form small cushionlike clumps.

The leaves are opposite, and the basal leaves are longer and wider than those at the top of the stems. The leaves are 2 to 3 cm long (0.8 to 1.2 inches) and 1 to 3 millimeters (mm) wide (0.04 to 0.12 inches); they are thin and are bright green in color, with glassy margins. The flowers are symmetrical, five-parted, and usually solitary at the end of the stems. The sepals are green and inconspicuously three-veined, and the white petals usually have five green veins. The fruit is a 3- to 3.5-mm-long (0.12 to 0.14 inches) ovoid capsule containing numerous reddish-brown reticulated seeds that are 0.5 to 0.7 mm long (0.02 to 0.03 inches).

Flowering occurs from early July through August.

Cumberland sandwort resembles Arenaria groenlandica (mountain sandwort) and Arenaria glabra (glabrous mountain sandwort), but Kral (1983) states that it can be distinguished by its longer, broader, thinner, veinier leaves, leafier upper stems, which produce fewer flowers as a rule, and by its distinctive seed sculpture. The

Figure 1. Illustration of Areriaria cumberlandensis B

0 Ycm I mm 0

I 0 Cuznberland sandwort (Arenaria cumberlandensis), taken from the original description of Wofford & Kral (1979, Brittonia 31:258). A whole plant; B = flower; C = dissected flower, showing two petals and a sepal; D a stigma; E = a capsule (fruit) with seeds; F = an anther; C = seeds.

2.

flowering period separates Cumberland sandwort temporally from Arenaria glabra, which flowers in early spring. In addition, Arenaria glabra and Arenaria groenlandica grow in full sun, whereas Arenaria cumberlandensis is found in shaded habitats.

The following summarizes the known history of the existence and distribution of Cumberland sandwort:

1941 - Shaver first collected the taxon in Pickett County, Tennessee. This and other collections made prior to Kral and Woffords description of the species were identified as either Arenaria glabra or Arenaria patula.

1947 - A specimen was collected from Scott County, Tennessee, by Shanks and others.

1960 - Specimens were collected in Morgan County, Tennessee, by Amundsen and others.

1973 - Kral collected the species from Fentress County, Tennessee, and collected the type specimen from Pickett County, Tennessee.

1979 - Cumberland sandwort was described as a new species by Wofford and Kral (1979).

1980 - A status survey report for Arenaria cumberlandensis was completed by Wofford and Smith (1980).

1984 - A site for the species was discovered in McCreary County, Kentucky, by Max Medley of the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission.

1987 - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed endangered status for Arenaria cumberlandensis (Service 1987).

1988 - Cumberland sandwort was listed as an endangered species (Service 1988).

199 1-1994 In conducting a survey ofthe Daniel Boone National Forests Stearns District in Kentucky, Alan Risk located a new site for the species in McCreary County (Shea 1991). The 1984 Kentucky occurrence has not been relocated even after three searches of that area (Libby 1994).

1993-1994 Additional occurrences were located in the Tennessee portion of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (Robert Emmott, Big 3

South Fork National River and Recreation Area, personal communication, 1993; Emmott, in litt., 1994).

Cumberland sandwort is currently known from four counties in Tennessee (Pickett, Scott, Fentress, and Morgan) and one county in Kentucky (McCreary) (Figure 2, page 5; Table 1, page 6). The majority of the sites are within close proximity of each other. The species occurs in sandstone rock houses, which tend to be discrete locations that are locally abundant where the geology is favorable to their formation.

Although the geographic separation of the sites is not great, the exchange of genetic material is likely to be limited between individual rock houses.

Habitat. Life History. and Threats Arenaria cumberlandensis is apparently restricted to sandstone rock houses, ledges, and solution pockets on sandstone rock faces. All known sites are within the Big South Fork watershed ofthe Cumberland River (Wofford and Smith 1980, Wofford and Kral 1979). The habitat requirements for the species include shade, moisture, relatively constant cool temperatures, and high humidity (Kral 1983, Wofford and Smith 1980). The rock houses in the area are formed through the differential weathering of Pennsylvanian sandstone, which results in the formation of cavelike overhangs.

Cumberland sandwort is perennial from short basal over-wintering shoots (Kral 1983). Flowering usually occurs in July and August (Wofford and Kral 1979). Fruit develops soon after flowering occurs. An investigation of the species germination requirements has been initiated by the Center for Plant Conservation (Sud, in litt.,

1994).

Arenaria cumberlandensis is endangered directly and indirectly by human activities in and adjacent to its unique habitat. The species is found on the sandy floors of rock houses, in solution pockets on the face of sandstone cliffs, and on ledges beneath overhanging sandstone. Significant threats to the plants growing on the rock house floors include trampling by hikers, campers, picnickers, individuals rappelling down the sandstone cliffs, and collectors digging illegally within the rock houses for Native American artifacts. The plants growing on ledges and in solution pockets on the cliff faces are vulnerable to trampling by people rappelling down the cliffs.

Many populations are potentially threatened by timber removal in or adjacent to the sites supporting the species. Increased sunlight on the plants and the subsequent alteration ofthe moisture conditions would probably lead to extirpation ofArenaria cumberlandensis from the timbered area.

Cumberland sandwort is not currently a component of the commercial trade in native plants. Its small size and restrictive habitat requirements should limit future 4

Figure 2. Distribution of Cumberland sandwort in Kentucky and Tennessee.

-A .q3 9 v0.,, s -  %#Cl 4 f~ t.. . Ms~g eel.. I- LAW- JACKSON # 4 C t CASISS ~Cee~0 MPeOx .~ . k,,1 * * (

~ 41~q& -~ 5 ~

o p~ I- 0WffI $ 41 LI*e5 b4,4., 4.

DUSOSI CftAW- 1. O,~ c ~ & H~R~e

%O.

)t ~, tLS~ 4yi 4 1 ~1 , 0 CAfttg rr LL t Sa 5 0 p F Owa ~ 5 ~

~

LAm I

~?~4MOGAN JO..

u,no.s *~1 0AVSK~ R,DG5 0 ~..WQpg 1 CRAVSON LARuE MAsgow ~,% 1. 1I*1,~. LEg 1 4

  • ~ .d~ *,i5AT1 I,, 4( BUTLER 0% MART 0*IS.P CASEY IT qp Dt4 WARREN ARRg.e e ) LOASA LAUREL CLAY issuc ~ q, .~1II C A 00 LO4.~AN . wSgg 0 ~1~ SIMP C~ P KNOX ALL5~

1p ~ WAYNE 51~

~ftwAft~AO~4 UNER MACON CLAW ___ WHITLE SEa.a.. ~41 scar, SON .IRoU S OAL( JA~ ~- 4 LAISORNE ~

0--( p.

~.4OAveO... 1Mev So.. ~ J. C, £ MAWKSN we V(J SON WCLSOA. ~U7NA~ ~ C., G~SE.ui 1.c 0 c~, U*ADII ANO~

4 .0 KNOX MAE4~ WeLLg...,,,~, mq~5 ~ WNe1g OA.~ COCKS M*4JSgQe Is. SEVIER IS Lrw~s 4EA SLO4INW j*44 ~, COD-pr -, S*agN A.

r ~ o MONROE

p. C0 AAVNg 41 fl~ a,.o CMet.. 01mb ,~,A ~EC GaLES 9 ,~01L MACoRe 0~* e,p~ .s 9.

1% /1

  • . POLK #7 DDCROA LI i~. 1. MARgC C-. CLAw CI LIME. 0 &

STOpg MA Oeso JA~K5ON P. 5 ~ PA~*N (UNION *ASUI C....14 r 4. I C. WALK( ~ .,~ CaLMER oco.qug

-. . 4 4 Z ~

5

State (Site) j County Ownership f Table 1. Extant occurrences ofArenaria cumberlandensis (Cumberland sandwort) in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Population Data Last Seen Threats to Population KENTUCKY Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area:

1. Big Spring Hollow McCreary NPS Hundreds of plants 1994 TENNESSEE - Pickett State Park:
1. Hazard Cave Pickett TDEC Several hundred plants 1993 Trampling, relic hunting
2. Hidden Passage Pickett TDEC Small population 1984
3. Double Falls Pickett TDEC 1984
4. Swinging Bridge Pickett TDEC Several dozen plants 1993
5. Ladder Trail Pickett IDEC Thousands ofplants 1993 Trampling
6. Watson Branch Pickett TDEC 1993 Trampling (remote location)

TENNESSEE - Pickett State Forest:

1. Power line Pickett TDF 1979 Timbering
2. Rock Creek Pickett TDF 1979 Timbering
3. Hidden Passage 1 Pickett TDF Small colony 1984 Timbering
4. Hidden Passage 2 Pickett TDF Large colony 1984 Timbering

) ) )

) )

Table 1 (continued)

State (Site) County Ownership Population Data Seen Last Threats to Population

5. Thompson Creek Pickett TDF 11980 Trampling, timbering
6. Rock Creek Pickett [TDF 11980 Timbering TENNESSEE - Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area:

Pickett NPS 5tolOm2 1992

2. Middle Creek 1 Pickett NPS 1992

.1 3. Middle Creek 2 Pickett NPS 1992

4. Middle Creek 3 Pickett NPS 1992
5. Middle Creek 4 Pickett NPS 1992
6. Middle Creek 5 Pickett NPS 1992
7. Middle Creek 6 Pickett NPS 1992
8. Big Island Scott NPS Locally abundant 1980 Trash dumping, trampling, digging
9. Peters Bridge Morgan NPS/ Scattered plants 1994 Timbering, unauthorized use Private
10. Sunbright Morgan NPS 1977 Trampling, timbering

Table 1 (continued)

State (Site) County__j_Ownership_f Population Data Seen Threats to Population

11. Middle Creek Nature Pickett NPS Several scattered groups of 1994 Loop 1 plants
12. Nature Loop 2 Pickett NPS Scattered plants covering 1994 5 to 10 m2
13. Nature Loop 3 Fentress NPS One small patch 1994
14. Jamestown Barrens Fentress Private 1979 Vehicles, trampling 00
15. Big Branch Scott NPS Two small patches 1994

=

Abbreviations include: NPS National Park Service TDEC Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation TDF Tennessee Division of Forestry

) ) )

demands (resulting from increased publicity) to a few wildflower enthusiasts who specialize in rare species. Several of the known populations are small and could be significantly damaged or extirpated by scientific collecting. Arenaria cumberlandensis is an extremely rare species, found only within a small portion of the Cumberland Plateau. In some populations, the loss of even a few individuals through natural fluctuations in numbers or human-inducedhabitat alterations could eliminate the occurrence and thereby reduce the likelihood that the species will continue to exist.

Conservation Measures and Recovery Strategy Conservation measures currently in place include all or partial public ownership of 27 of the known occurrences of the species. Of these 27 sites, 6 occur in Pickett State Park, 6 occur in Pickett State Forest, and 15 occur in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Searches for the species were conducted in Kentucky in 1991, 1994, and 1995; all three searches focused on McCreary County (Shea 1991; Libby 1994; Deborah White, Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission, personal communication, 1995). A floristic inventory of Pickett State Park is currently near completion and will include additional information on the distribution ofArenaria cumberlandensis in the park (Virginia Small, Pickett State Park, personal communication, 1993).

Some measures to protect vulnerable sites within Pickett State Park have been taken.

Primarily, a boardwalk and guard rails have been constructed at the Hazard Cave site, a popular attraction for park visitors.

Plant conservation measures have been initiated by the Center for Plant Conservation at the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri. Seeds were collected in 1991 from two sites in Pickett State Park (McCook, in litt., 1992). In 1994, seeds were collected from four occurrences within the Pickett State Park and placed in long-term storage. The Missouri Botanical Garden has also initiated germination trials for the species (Sud, in litt., 1994).

The primary strategy for the recovery of Cumberland sandwort includes monitoring the known occurrences and protecting them from habitat alterations; searching for new occurrences; and determining and implementing the management necessary for long-term reproduction, establishment, maintenance, and vigor. Additional actions include long-term seed storage and maintenance of living plants and studies of the species biology, enforcement of existing laws, and a public education/information program.

9

PART II RECOVERY A. Recovery Objectives Arenaria cumberlandensis (Cumberland sandwort) will be considered for reclassification from endangered to threatened status when 30 geographically distinct, self-sustaining occurrences are protected in fourcounties in Tennessee and Kentucky and have maintained stable or increasing numbers for 5 consecutive years. The species will be considered for delisting when 40 geographically distinct, self-sustaining occurrences are protected and have maintained statistically stable or increasing numbers for 5 consecutive years. At least 12 of these occurrences must be in counties other than Pickett County, Tennessee. The estimated date for recovery completion is 2005, provided that funds are available to accomplish the required recovery tasks and that the recovery criteria are met.

10

B. Narrative Outline

1. Protect existing occurrences and essential habitat. Only 28 extant occurrences of Cumberland sandwort are currently known to exist. Until more is known about the species biology, genetic diversity, specific habitat requirements, and management needs, all existing occurrences should be protected in order to prevent extinction.

1.1 Develop interim research and management plans and develop cooperative management agreements with landowners or land managers. Cumberland sandwort is typically found growing within sandstone rock houses or on ledges or within solution pockets on sandstone cliffs. Immediate emphasis will be on protection (prevention of site alterations that are known to be detrimental), in cooperation with the landowners and land managers, until appropriate management procedures have been developed through research. Demographic studies should provide important insights into the management needs of the species.

1.2 Search for additional occurrences and characterize all known occurrences Several intensive searches have been conducted for Cumberland sandwort. However, a thorough systematic effort to locate additional occurrences in Tennessee and to carefully describe the nature ofthe habitat occupied by the species in both States is needed. Searches should be preceded by an examination of soil and topographic maps and aerial photographs to determine potential habitat and to develop a priority list of sites to survey. The habitat requirements of the species appear to be specialized, and although it is locally abundant at some sites, it is currently known from only a small portion of one watershed. Searches for new occurrences should include areas within and adjacent to the Big South Fork watershed.

1.3 Determine habitat protection priorities and develop landowner or land manager agreements. Because ofthe small number ofexisting occurrences and the pervasive threats to the habitat, it is essential to protect as many of the extant occurrences as possible. However, efforts should first be concentrated on the largest and most vigorous occurrences and sites under State or Federal management.

1.4 Evaluate habitat protection alternatives. The greatest possible protection should be obtained for those existing occurrences that are considered critical to the recovery of the species. Conservation agreements or easements provide the greatest degree of protection. However, it is as yet unknown how much buffer land around each occurrence is necessary to 11

protect the integrity of occupied sites. Protection through memorandums of understanding may provide adequate short-term protection but should only be considered as an intermediate step in the process of ultimately providing for permanent protection. Short-term protection strategies may be necessary if private landowners are not agreeable to, or monies are not available for, the acquisition of conservation easements or fee simple title. Conservation agreements with adjacent landowners or owners of rights-of-way (power companies, highway departments, etc.) should be developed to prevent inadvertent adverse alteration of the habitat directly supporting the species or within the buffer areas neededto provide adequate protection.

1.4.1 Protect the species from recreational overuse of the habitat. Sites that occur on hiking trails within Pickett State Forest, Pickett State Park, and the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area need to be carefully monitored. In heavily impacted areas, the installation of signs, construction of boardwalks, and diversion of trails or other appropriate techniques should be used to reduce or eliminate the adverse effects of recreational use.

1.4.2 Protect the species habitat from adverse timber management activities. Timber management activities within Pickett State Forest should be conducted in a manner consistent with the protection needs of Cumberland sandwort. Through conservation agreements, currently occupied sites should be protected from adverse management activities. Protected areas identified within the conservation agreements should include buffer areas designed to eliminate adverse habitat modification. Timber planning should include surveys to identify currently unknown sites as well as potential sites for introduction ofthe species. Introduction of the species should be undertaken only if it is determined to be essential to the long-term survival ofthe species.

2. Determine and implement the management necessary for long-term reproduction. establishment. maintenance, and vigor. Protection of the species habitat is the obvious first step in ensuring its long-term survival, but this alone may not be sufficient. Habitat protection and, potentially, habitat management may be necessary to allow the species to perpetuate its life cycle over the long term. However, because very little is known about this species, information about its genetic diversity, population biology, and ecology is necessary before we can determine whether active management is needed and effective management guidelines can be formulated and implemented.

12

2.1 Determine occurrence size and stage-class distribution for all

~ Occurrence size and stage-class distribution data are essential for determining whether populations are self-sustaining or predicting what factors may be necessary forpopulations to become self-sustaining (Menges 1987). Such data are needed for the existing occurrences and for any newly discovered occurrences.

2.2 Study abiotic and biotic features ofthe species habitat. An understanding of the nature of the habitat occupied by the species is essential for the long-term survival and recovery of Cumberland sandwort. Monitoring studies should include occurrences within both altered and undisturbed habitats. Permanent plots or other appropriate monitoring methods should be selected and established to determine the relationship between abiotic factors (such as soil depth and type, soil moisture content, and light intensity) and biotic factors (such as reproduction, germination, and degree of competition and predation).

This information is necessary to determine the appropriate timing and type of management necessary to ensure the continued vigor of existing occurrences and to accurately select good potential sites for introduction, if necessary.

The vectors of seed dispersal, if any, must be determined and their effectiveness under different ecological and spatial conditions assessed.

Major pollinators and pollination mechanisms of this species need to be determined.

2.3 Conduct long-term demographic studies and determine genetic variability between occurrences. Long-term demographic studies should be conducted in permanent plots located within each study site established for habitat analysis. Plots should be visited annually, for at least 5 consecutive years. Through isozyme analysis, the degree of genetic variability between occurrences should be determined. This information will be essential to the determination ofthe location, distribution, and number of occurrences that need to be protected to ensure the long-term survival ofthe species.

2.4 Determine the effects of past and ongoing habitat disturbance Establishment and long-term monitoring ofpermanent plots may be the most effective means of assessing the effects ofdisturbance. Appropriate methodology for this must be determined and included in the implementation of Tasks 2.2 and 2.3.

13

2.5 Define criteria for self-sustaining occurrences and determine the size ot the area needed to protect each occurrence. There is currently insufficient datato determine what this species requires in order for populations to be self-sustaining and how large an area is needed to maintain viable populations. Research, as described under Tasks 2.2 through 2.4, should provide the information needed to protect and, if necessary, manage occupied habitat so that the continued survival ofhealthy occurrences is assured. This information should also be used to refine the definition of geographically distinct, self-sustaining occurrence used in the recovery criteria for the species.

2.6 Implement appropriate management techniques as they are developed from previous tasks 2.7 Develop techniques and reestablish populations in suitable habitat within the species historic range. if necessarv. to recover the species Techniques for seed collection, germination, propagation, and transplantation of this species should be developed. If determined to be necessary, reintroduction efforts should be carefully monitored and conducted in cooperation with knowledgeable personnel at private nurseries, botanical gardens, and the Center For Plant Conservation.

Introduction into currently unoccupied but apparently suitable sites and reintroduction into sites from which the species has been extirpated should be undertaken only if such actions are determined to be essential to the survival of the species. Plants used to supplement existing depauperate populations, if this technique is determined to be approprite, should be grown exclusively from plants (seeds) that originated at the supplementation site.

3. Maintain a cultivated source of plants and provide for long-term seed storage Techniques for seed storage, germination, and, if appropriate, maintenance of cultivated specimens should be developed by private nurseries, botanical gardens, and the Center for Plant Conservation. Maintenance of seeds in storage and plants in cultivation will ensure that representative genetic material is available for research on the species and that seeds and, if necessary, plants are available for reintroduction to sites from which the species has been extirpated. All collections of material from wild populations must be conducted in a manner designed to eliminate all risks to the occurrences from which they are obtained.
4. Enforce laws protecting the species and/or its habitat. Cumberland sandwort is not currently known to be significantly threatenedby commercial trade. If this becomes a threat in the future, the Endangered Species Act prohibits 14

taking of the species from Federal lands without a permit and regulates trade.

Section 7 of the Act provides additional protection of the habitat from impacts related to federally funded or authorized projects. In addition, forlisted plants, the Act prohibits (1) theirmalicious damage or destruction on Federal lands and (2) their removal, cutting, digging, damaging, or destroying in knowing violation of any State law or regulation, including State criminal trespass law.

5. Develop materials to inform the public about the status of the species and the recovery plan objectives. Public support for the conservation of Cumberland sandwort could play an important part in encouraging conservation efforts.

Information materials should not identify the plants locations so as not to increase the threat of taking.

5.1 Prepare and distribute news releases and informational brochures. News releases concerning the status and significance of the species and recovery efforts should be prepared and distributed to newspapers in the range of the species.

5.2 Prepare articles forpopular and scientific publications. The need to protect the species in its native habitat and cooperation among local, State, and Federal organizations and individuals should be stressed.

Scientific publications should emphasize additional research that is needed and solicit research assistance from colleges and universities that have conducted studies on this or closely related species.

6. Annually assess the success of recoverv efforts for the species. Review of new information, evaluation of ongoing actions, and redirection, if necessary, is essential forassuring that full recovery is achieved as quickly and efficiently as possible.

15

C. Literature Cited Kral, R. 1983. A Report on Some Rare, Threatened, or Endangered Forest-related Vascular Plants of the South. Tech. Publ. R8-TP-2.

USDA-Forest Service. Vol. I, pp. 363-3 66.

Libby, Gary W. 1994. Field Survey for Cumberland Sandwort (Minuartia cumberlandensis [Wofford and Kral] McNeill). Kentucky Endangered Plant Species Program (Project E-l-8). 20 pp.

Menges, E. 1987. Predicting the future of rare plant populations: demographic monitoring and modeling. NaturalAreas Journal 6(3):13-26.

Shea, M. 1991. Field Survey for Cumberland Sandwort (Arenaria cumberlandensis Wofford and Kral). Kentucky Endangered Plant Species Program (Project E-1-5). 9 pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1987. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposal to Determine Endangered Status for Arenaria cumberlandensis. Federal Register 52(128):25268-2527 1.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1988. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination ofEndangered Status for Arenaria cumberlandensis.

Federal Register 53(121):23745-23748.

Wofford, B. E., and R. Kral. 1979. A New Arenaria (Caryophyllaceae) from the Cumberlands of Tennessee. Brittonia 31(2). Pp. 257-260.

Wofford, B. E., and D. K. Smith. 1980. Arenaria cumberlandensis Status Survey Report. Report for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 20 pp.

A 16

r PART III IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Priorities in column one ofthe following Implementation Schedule are assigned as follows:

1. Priority 1 An action that 1ni~t be taken to prevent extinction or to prevent the species from declining irreversibly in the £~~kk future.
2. Priority 2 An action that must be taken to prevent a significant decline in species population/habitat quality or some other significant negative impact short of extinction.
3. Priority 3 All other actions necessary to meet the recovery objective.

Key to Acronyms Used in This Implementation Schedule CPC - Center for Plant Conservation EWS - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service KSNPC - Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission LE - Law Enforcement Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service NPS - National Park Service R4 - Region 4 (Southeast Region), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service TDEC - Tennessee Department ofEnvironment and Conservation TDF - Tennessee Division of Forestry TE - Endangered Species Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USDA - U.S. Department of Agriculture 17

CUMBERLAND SANDWORT IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Priority Task Number TaskDescription I I~urati Taskon Responsil$e Auency FWS Other Cost Estimates (SOOOu~

FYI FY2 FY3 Commen~

1 1.1 Develop management plans. Ongoing R4ITE NPS, TDF, 3.0 3.0 3.0 TDEC 1.3 Prioritize sites and develop 2 years R4/TE NPS, TDF, 4.0 4.0 agreements. TDEC 1 1.4 Evaluate protection alternatives. 1 year R4/TE NPS, TDF, TDEC 1 1.4.1 Protect sites from overnse. 3 years R4/TE NPS, TDF, 10.0 10.0 TDEC 2.5 Refine recovery criteria 1 year R4/TE NPS, TDF, 6.0 TDEC, KSNPC 6.0 Annually review recovery efforts Ongoing R4ITE NPS, TDF.

and goals. TDEC, KSNPC 2 1.2 Search for new populations and 3 years R4ITE NPS, TDF, 6.0 6.0 6.0 characterize known populations. TDEC, KSNPC 2 1.4.2 Protect sites from adverse timber Ongoing R4/TE TDF management.

2 2.1 Conduct baseline inventory. 1 year R4ITE NPS, TDF, 12.0 TDEC, KSNPC 2 2.2 Characterize habitat. 2 years R4/TE NPS, TDF, 10.0 10.0 TDEC, KSNPC 2 2.3 Conduct long-term demographic Ongoing R4/TE NPS, TDF, 10.0 10.0 10.0 studies. TDEC,

) ) )

) )

CUMIJERLAND SANDWORT IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE (continued)

Task Task Responsible Agency Cost Estimates (SOOOs~

Priority Number Task Description Duration FWS Other FYi FY2 FY3 . Comments 2 2.4 Evaluate habitat alterations. 3 years R4/TE NPS. TDF, 6.0 6.0 6.0 TDEC, KSNPC 2 2.6 Implement needed management. Ongoing R4/TE NPS, TDF 6.0 6.0 2 3.0 Maintain plants and seeds. Ongoing R4/TE CPC, USDA 12.0 0.5 0.5 2 4.0 Enforce laws. Ongoing R4/TE NPS, TDF, andLE TDEC 3 2.7 Reestablish populations, if 3 years R4/TE NPS, TDF, Costs unknown; necessary. TDEC, tasks may not be KSNPC necessary.

3 5.1 Prepare news releases and Ongoing R4/TE NPS, TDF, 3.0 0.5 0.5 brochures. TDEC, KSNPC 3 5.2 Prepare articles for journals and Ongoing R4/TE NPS, TDF, magazines. TDEC, KSNPC

PART IV LIST OF RECIPIENTS The following agencies, organizations, and individuals were mailed copies ofthis recovery plan. This does not imply that they provided comments or endorsed the contents of this plan.

Mr. Reginald Reeves, Director Endangered Species Division Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation 401 Church Street Eighth Floor, L&C Tower Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0447 Mr. Roy Jensen Division of Parks and Recreation Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation 401 Church Street Eighth Floor, L&C Tower Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0447 Mr. Bob Rochelle Division of Forestry Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation 401 Church Street Eighth Floor, L&C Tower Nashville, Tennessee 3 7243-0447 Mr. Bob Leonard, Manager Kentucky State Clearinghouse Department of Local Government Second Floor, Capital Tower Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 20

Superintendent Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Route 3, Box 401 Oneida, Tennessee 37841-9544 Mr. Bob Emmott Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Route 3, Box 401 Oneida, Tennessee 37841-9544 Forest Supervisor Daniel Boone National Forest 1700 Bypass Road Winchester, Kentucky 40391 Mr. David Taylor Daniel Boone National Forest 1700 Bypass Road Winchester, Kentucky 40391 Dr. William H. Redmond Regional Natural Heritage Project Tennessee Valley Authority Norris, Tennessee 37828 Mr. David Yancy Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Number 1 Game Farm Road Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 Mr. Robert McCance, Jr., Director Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission 801 Schenkel Lane Frankfort, Kentucky 40601-1403 Commissioner of Parks Kentucky Department of Parks Tenth Floor, Capital Plaza Building Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 21

Mr. James E. Daniel, II, President Kentucky Audubon Council P.O. Box 137 Frankfort, Kentucky 40602 Drs. Jerry and Carol Baskin School of Biological Sciences University of Kentucky Lexington, Kentucky 40506 Mr. Max E. Medley Biology Department University of Louisville Louisville, Kentucky 40292 New England Wildflower Society, Inc.

Garden in the Woods Hemenway Road Framington, Massachusetts 01701 Dr. Janice Coffey Swab Conservation Committee American Society ofPlant Taxonomists Meredith College Hunter Hall 3800 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27607-5298 Department of Botany National Museum of Natural History Smithsonian Institution Washington, DC 20560 Traffic U.S.A.

World Wildlife Fund 1250 Twenty-fourth Street, NW., Suite 500 Washington, DC 20037 Dr. Susan H. Lathrop, Executive Director American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta, Inc.

786 Church Road Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087 22

Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc.

40 West 20th Street New York, New York 10011 The Garden Club of America 598 Madison Avenue New York, New York 10022 Kentucky Resources Council, Inc.

P.O. Box 1070 Frankfort, Kentucky 40602 Dr. Leo Collins Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife Division Tennessee Valley Authority Norris, Tennessee 37828 The Nature Conservancy 2002 Richard Jones Road, Suite 304-C Nashville, Tennessee 37215 The Nature Conservancy 1815 N. Lynn Street Arlington, Virginia 22209 Mr. Joe Jacob The Nature Conservancy P.O. Box 2267 Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514 Mr. Bob McCartney Woodlanders 1128 Colleton Avenue Aiken, South Carolina 29801 Mr. John Sherman Tennessee Environmental Council 1700 Hayes Street, Suite 101 Nashville, Tennessee 37203 23

Mr. Ken Warren, Secretary Harvey Broome Group Sierra Club 105 Evans Lane Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830 Mr. Arthur Smith Sierra Club Tennessee Chapter 100 Otari Drive Kingsport, Tennessee 37664 Dr. Murray A. Evans do Botany Department University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee 37916 Dr. Bob Kral Biology Department Vanderbilt University Box 1705, Station B Nashville, Tennessee 37235 Mr. Edward Schell 416 Lambeth Drive Johnson City, Tennessee 37601-1042 Dr. Eugene Wofford Curator of Herbarium Department of Botany University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee 37916 Ms. Liane B. Russell 130 Tabor Road Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830 24

Director Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Ellington Agricultural Center P.O. Box 40747 Nashville, Tennessee 37204 Dr. Bob Cook Arnold Arboretum 125 Arborway Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts 02130 Center for Plant Conservation Missouri Botanical Garden P.O. Box 299 St. Louis, Missouri 63166 Mr. Rich Owings North Carolina Arboretum P.O. Box 6617 Asheville, North Carolina 28816 Mr. Mike Turner (PD-R)

U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers Louisville District P.O. Box 59 Louisville, Kentucky 40201 Lt. Col. John Whisler Nashville District Engineer U.S. Army Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 1070 Nashville, Tennessee 37202-1070 U.S. Forest Service Wildlife, Fisheries, and Range 1720 Peachtree Road, NW.

Atlanta, Georgia 30367 Fish and Wildlife Reference Service 5430 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 110 Bethesda, Maryland 20814 25

Project Manager (7507C)

Environmental Protection Agency Endangered Species Protection Program Environmental Fate and Effects Division Office of Pesticide Programs 401 M Street, SW.

Washington, DC 20460 The Nature Conservancy Eastern Regional Office 201 Devonshire Street, 5th Floor Boston, Massachusetts 02110 Mr. Rob Gardner Curator of Rare Plants North Carolina Botanical Garden University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill CB Number 3375, Totten Center Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3375 Dr. Peter White, Director North Carolina Botanical Garden University ofNorth Carolina Chapel Hill CB Number 3375, Totten Center Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3375 Dr. Gary B. Blank North Carolina State University Box 8002 Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-8002 Mr. Alan Smith P.O. Box 887 Mars Hill, North Carolina 28754 Mr. Julius T. Johnson Director ofPublic Affairs Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation P.O. Box 313 Columbia, Tennessee 38401 26

Ms. LauraKnoth Director of Environmental Affairs Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation P.O. Box 20700 Louisville, Kentucky 40250-0700 Ms. Margaret Shea The Nature Conservancy 642 West Main Street Lexington, Kentucky 40508 Mr. Billy Glen Smith Superintendent Pickett State Park Rock Creek Route, Box 174 Jamestown, Tennessee 38556 Mr. Jim Matthews Pickett State Forest Rock Creek Route, Box 112 Jamestown, Tennessee 38556 Ms. Alexa McKerrow Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation 401 Church Street Eighth Floor, L&C Tower Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0447 Environmental Protection Agency Hazard Evaluation Division - EEB (T5769C) 401 M Street, SW.

Washington, DC 20460 Ms. Alice L. Gustin Publisher/Editor Land Use Chronicle P.O. Box 468 Riverton, Wyoming 82501 Mrs. Ruby Pharr 111 York Street Morganton, North Carolina 28655 27

Mr. Steven Gisler Oregon State University Department of Botany Cordley Hall Corvallis, Oregon 97331 Mr. Charles P. Nicholson Tennessee Valley Authority 400 West Summit Hill Drive Knoxville, Tennessee 37902-1499 Dr. Harriet Gillett World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 ODL United Kingdom 28

Retrieved from "https://kanterella.com/w/index.php?title=ML18023A197&oldid=2535925"