Rare Plant Inventory
Importance / IssuesThe Klamath region is noted for high proportions of rare species and local endemics. These species are often poor competitors with widespread native and non-native plant species and often occur in areas where competition is limited by unique conditions of local hydrogeology, substrate fertility, or disturbance. Since the controls on the rare plant species are often highly idiosyncratic, general knowledge required to protect or restore these species are lacking. Basic information in the population size(s), vigor, and population dynamics are needed to effectively manage rare and sensitive plant populations. In other cases, specific habitats or taxonomic groups have received less attention in past botanical surveys. Wetland and riparian habitats are under sampled in most of the Klamath parks. Problematic plant taxa, such as sedges (Carex spp.) and other aquatic vascular plants, are understudied in most parks. Surveys of aquatic plants in LAVO have been highlighted as a possible weak point in that park's vascular plant checklist. The recent discovery of a globally rare new plant species, Howell’s alkali grass (Puccinellia howellii), in a roadside seep of WHIS suggests that these habitats may be harboring biological diversity which is presently undocumented. Principal InvestigatorDr. Erik Jules Inventory Leader Dr. Daniel Sarr |
 ObjectivesThe first objective of our rare plant inventory was to document 90% of each parks vascular plant flora. The second objective of this inventory was to gather and augment existing information on the distribution, abundance, and habitat characteristics of the target species. The third objective of this inventory was to increase documentation of our existing plant lists for each park. ParksCrater Lake National Park Project StatusCompleted |
Reports and PublicationsSmith, S., Filipski, J., Basor, B., Sarr, D., and E. Jules. 2004. Annual Report for the Klamath Network Inventory & Monitoring Program: FY2003 Rare Plant Inventory. This report contains locations of rare and sensitive plants and can be obtained at the Klamath Networks Intranet web site or by contacting the park directly. | |