10 



capacity, and this use should not pose a threat to 

 the rare plant population. 



Orchis rotundifolia is an orchid species distributed broadly 

 across boreal North America. Its range extends southward 

 into Montana where it is considered endangered in the state. 

 Although there are now 17 known sites in Montana for this 

 species, these populations are sparsely distributed. It is 

 likely that this species would be affected by minor habitat 

 disturbances that alter the water regime or overstory 

 characteristics of the Ear Mountain site. Future land use 

 activities in the vicinity of this population should include 

 consideration for maintaining its long-term viability. 



