a. Because of the species' longevity, its viability for these small 

 populations is thought to be fair, despite their small size. Proposed 

 disturbances within or near any of these populations should be preceded 

 by detailed survey of the populations, and mitigation measures should 

 be developed to reduce or to eliminate the impacts of management 

 activities. 



b. Livestock grazing directly adjoining native habitats should be managed 

 in a manner which would not encourage use at the population sites. 

 Water development, salt block placement, and fences should not be 

 allo\Ned near the populations and should not encourage trailing through 

 the populations. 



c. The population area near the East Fork of Otter Creek may be 

 appropriate for special management designation and study due to its 

 Carex gravida population and the presence of both C. toireyi and 

 Dichanthelium oligosanlhes var. scribnerianum. 



RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURTHER ASSESSMENT: Further survey 

 of woody draws, particularly in the northern end of the District, is needed to 

 roimd out the local distribution pattern for this and three other species. This 

 study points to a greater need for woody draw sensitive species surveys in 

 eastern Montana. 



SUMMARY 



Carex gravida is a plant of moist wooded habitat known from four occurrences in Montana. 

 The restricted nature of its habitat, its apparent susceptibility to disturbance, and its small 

 population sizes are reasons for concern regarding its viability in the state. Among the non- 

 designated species considered in this study, Carex gravida is the strongest candidate for 

 designation as sensitive by the U.S. Forest Service. 



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