cases, the patterns of species rarity are indications of localized sensitive features like woody 

 draws that warrant special management consideration. 



The framework for conducting sensitive species surveys is based on assumptions that targets 

 can be set and that a systematic plan to survey for them can be developed at the onset. The 

 lack of baseline floristic information in southeastern Montana is perhaps the biggest obstacle 

 blocking the development of an effective District sensitive species program. Until we know 

 which species occur in the region, it is difficult to plan a systematic survey. Nor can we make 

 an accurate evaluation of the status of a possibly-rare species without understanding the 

 regional context in which it occurs. 



Baseline floristic survey followed by rigorous extended sensitive species survey is presented 

 as a course for developing a meaningfiil and effective sensitive species program on the 

 District. Perhaps one of the best models available is the program at the Rocky Mountain 

 Herbarium at the University of Wyoming. Regions of Wyoming have undergone systematic 

 floristic inventory by students and staff, often with at least partial funding coming from 

 Federal agencies. This type of project has become widely-accepted in Wyoming as the first 

 step in effective sensitive species management. Such a broad-brush approach typically yields 

 a list of potentially-rare species with some information on habitat and distribution within the 

 study area. These species can then be targeted for more intensive survey in order to determine 

 status and management needs. 



The sensitive plant species surv'ey studies conducted on both the Ashland and Sioux Districts 

 advance the winnowing process of collecting and sorting botanical status information in 

 eastern Montana. The results represent interim products rather than complete baselines of 

 Ashland District botanical diversity and its significance. 



We have not evaluated land use practices potentially affecting Astragalus barrii and those 

 species proposed for sensitive or watch status on the Ashland District. But in one sweeping 

 generalization, we note that noxious weed encroachment is at relatively early stages of 

 invasion across the area, and is among the most serious of potential threats to all species in 

 their habitats. This report, in combination with technical references and the Regional Office 

 guidelines for conducting sensitive plant species biological assessments, provides a starting 

 point for advancing sensitive species conservation and avoiding impacts. 



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