[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 158 (Tuesday, August 18, 2009)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 41649-41662]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-19494]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2008-0131; MO 9221050083-B2]


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Partial 90-Day 
Finding on a Petition To List 206 Species in the Midwest and Western 
United States as Threatened or Endangered with Critical Habitat

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Notice of 90-day petition finding.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 
90-day finding on 38 species from a petition to list 206 species in the 
mountain-prairie region of the United States as threatened or 
endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). 
For 9 of the 38 species, we find that the petition did not present 
substantial information indicating that listing may be warranted. For 
29 of the 38 species, we find that the petition does present 
substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that 
listing may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this 
notice, we are initiating a status review of the 29 species to 
determine if listing is warranted. To ensure that the review is 
comprehensive, we are soliciting scientific and commercial information 
regarding these 29 species.

DATES: To allow us adequate time to conduct a status review, we request 
that we receive information on or before October 19, 2009.

ADDRESSES: You may submit information by one of the following methods:
    <bullet> Federal rulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the instructions for submitting comments to Docket no. FWS-R2-
ES-2008-0131.
    <bullet> U.S. Mail or hand delivery: Public Comments Processing, 
Attn: FWS-R6-ES-2008-0131, Division of Policy and Directives 
Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, 
Suite 222, Arlington, VA 22203.
    We will post all information received on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any 
personal information you provide us (see the Information Solicited 
section below for more information).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ann Carlson, Listing Coordinator, 
Mountain-Prairie Regional Ecological Services Office (see ADDRESSES); 
telephone 303-236-4264. If you use a telecommunications device for the 
deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 
800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Information Solicited

    When we make a finding that a petition presents substantial 
information indicating that a species may be warranted, we are required 
to promptly commence a review of the status of the species. To ensure 
that the status review is complete and based on the best available 
scientific and commercial information, we are soliciting information 
concerning the status of the 29 species for which we found that the 
petition provides substantial information that listing may be 
warranted. We request information from the public, other concerned 
governmental agencies, Tribes, the scientific community, industry, or 
any other interested parties concerning the status of the species. We 
are seeking information regarding the species' historical and current 
status and distribution, their biology and ecology, ongoing 
conservation measures for the species and their habitats, and threats 
to the species or their habitats.
    Please note that comments merely stating support or opposition to 
the action under consideration without providing supporting 
information, although noted, will not be considered in making a 
determination, as section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533 
(b)(1)(A)) directs that determinations as to whether any species is a 
threatened or endangered species must be made ``solely on the basis of 
the best scientific and commercial data available.'' At the conclusion 
of the status review, we will issue a 12-month finding on the petition, 
as provided in section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533(b)(3)(B)).
    You may submit your information concerning this 90-day finding or 
the 29 species by one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. 
We will not consider submissions sent by e-mail or fax or to an address 
not listed in the ADDRESSES section.
    If you submit information via http://www.regulations.gov, your 
entire submission--including any personal identifying information--will 
be posted on the website. If your submission is made via a hardcopy 
that includes personal identifying information, you may request at the 
top of your document that we withhold this information from public 
review. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

[[Page 41650]]

We will post all hardcopy submissions on http://www.regulations.gov.
    Information and materials we receive, as well as supporting 
documentation used in preparing this 90-day finding, will be available 
for public inspection on http://www.regulations.gov, or by appointment, 
during normal business hours, at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 
Mountain-Prairie Regional Ecological Services Office (see FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT).

Background

    Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires 
that we make a finding on whether a petition to list, delist, or 
reclassify a species presents substantial scientific or commercial 
information indicating that a petitioned action may be warranted. We 
are to base this finding on information provided in the petition. To 
the maximum extent practicable, we are to make the finding within 90 
days of our receipt of the petition, and publish our notice of this 
finding promptly in the Federal Register.
    Our standard for ``substantial information,'' as defined in the 
Code of Federal Regulations at 50 CFR 424.14(b), with regard to a 90-
day petition finding is ``that amount of information that would lead a 
reasonable person to believe that the measure proposed in the petition 
may be warranted.'' If we find that substantial information was 
presented, we are required to promptly commence a status review of the 
species.
    In making this finding, we based our decision on information 
provided by the petitioner that we determined to be reliable after 
reviewing sources referenced in the petition and otherwise available in 
our files. We evaluated that information in accordance with 50 CFR 
424.14(b). Our process for making this 90-day finding under section 
4(b)(3)(A) of the Act is limited to a determination of whether the 
information in the petition meets the ``substantial information'' 
threshold.

Petition

    On July 30, 2007, we received a formal petition dated July 24, 
2007, from Forest Guardians (now WildEarth Guardians) requesting that 
the Service: (1) Consider all full species in our Mountain Prairie 
Region ranked as G1 or G1G2 by the organization NatureServe, except 
those that are currently listed, proposed for listing, or candidates 
for listing; and (2) list each species as either endangered or 
threatened. The petition incorporated all analysis, references, and 
documentation provided by NatureServe in its online database at http://www.natureserve.org/ into the petition. The petition clearly identified 
itself as a petition and included the identification information, as 
required in 50 CFR 424.14(a). We sent a letter to the petitioners, 
dated August 24, 2007, acknowledging receipt of the petition and 
stating that, based on preliminary review, we found no compelling 
evidence to support an emergency listing for any of the species covered 
by the petition.
    On March 19, 2008, WildEarth Guardians filed a complaint (1:08-CV-
472-CKK) indicating that the Service failed to comply with its 
mandatory duty to make a preliminary 90-day finding on their two 
multiple species petitions--one for mountain-prairie species, and one 
for southwest species. We subsequently published two initial 90-day 
findings on January 6, 2009 (74 FR 419), and February 5, 2009 (74 FR 
6122). On March 13, 2009, the Service and WildEarth Guardians filed a 
stipulated settlement in the District of Columbia Court, agreeing that 
the Service would submit to the Federal Register a finding as to 
whether WildEarth Guardians' petition presents substantial information 
indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for 38 mountain-
prairie species by August 9, 2009. This finding meets that portion of 
the settlement.
    On June 18, 2008, we received a petition from WildEarth Guardians, 
dated June 12, 2008, to emergency list 32 species under the 
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Endangered Species Act. Of 
those 32 species, 11 were included in the July 24, 2007, petition to be 
listed on a non-emergency basis. Although the Act does not provide for 
a petition process for an interested person to seek to have a species 
emergency listed, section 4(b)(7) of the Act authorizes the Service to 
issue emergency regulations to temporarily list a species. In a letter 
dated July 25, 2008, we stated that the information provided in both 
the 2007 and 2008 petitions and in our files did not indicate that an 
emergency situation existed for any of the 11 species. The Service's 
decisions whether to exercise its authority to issue emergency 
regulations to temporarily list a species are not judicially 
reviewable. See Fund for Animals v. Hogan, 428 F.3d 1059 (DC Cir. 
2005).
    The following discussion presents our evaluation of a portion of 
the species included in the July 24, 2007, petition, based on 
information provided in the petition and our current understanding of 
the species.
    The 2007 petition included a list of 206 species. Two species, 
Cymopterus beckii (pinnate spring-parsley) and Camissonia gouldii 
(Diamond Valley suncup), also were included in a separate petition to 
list 475 species in our Southwest Region that we received on June 18, 
2007. We reviewed the species files for Cymopterus beckii and 
Camissonia gouldii under the June 18, 2007, petition, and in an initial 
response to the petition for 475 species included them in a 90-day 
finding for 270 species published on January 6, 2009 (74 FR 419), 
concluding that the petition did not present substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing of the species may be 
warranted.
    We addressed an additional 165 species (from the petition to list 
206 species) in a 90-day finding that published on February 5, 2009 (74 
FR 6122), concluding that the petition did not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that listing of the 
species may be warranted.
    The petitions for 206 and 475 species each included Sphaeralcea 
gierischii (Gierisch mallow). We found this species is currently a 
candidate species for listing and that action was initiated through a 
candidate assessment completed by the Southwest Region headquartered in 
Albuquerque, New Mexico. We have sufficient information on biological 
vulnerability and threats to support a proposal to list as endangered 
or threatened (i.e., it met our definition of a candidate species); 
however, preparation and publication of a proposed rule is precluded by 
higher-priority listing actions--existing candidates with listing 
priority numbers of 2 and additional factors such as International 
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) rankings. The species was 
included in the Candidate Notice of Review that published on December 
10, 2008 (73 FR 75176). The threats to S. gierischii are high in 
magnitude, because survival of the species is threatened throughout its 
entire range in Arizona by gypsum mining, and the two largest 
populations exist in areas that are being actively mined. Loss of those 
two populations would significantly reduce the total number of 
individuals throughout the range, threatening the long-term viability 
of the species. The threats are imminent, because they are ongoing in 
Arizona. Therefore, we assigned a listing priority number of 2 to this 
species.

Species Information

    The petitioners presented two tables that collectively listed the 
206 species for consideration and requested that the Service 
incorporate all analysis,

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references, and documentation provided by NatureServe in its online 
database into the petition. The information presented by NatureServe 
(http://www.natureserve.org/) is found in peer-reviewed professional 
journal articles and is considered to be a reputable source of 
scientific information. We judge this source to be reliable with regard 
to the information it presents. However, NatureServe indicates on their 
Web Site that information in their database is not intended for 
determining whether species are warranted for listing under the Act, 
and we found that the information cited was limited in its usefulness 
for this process.
    We accessed the NatureServe database on August 10, 2007. We saved 
hardcopies of each species' file and used this information, including 
references cited within these files, during our review. Therefore, all 
information we used from the species files in NatureServe was current 
to that date. All of the petitioned species were ranked by NatureServe 
as G1 (critically imperiled) or G1G2 (between critically imperiled and 
imperiled).
    We reviewed all references cited in the NatureServe database 
species files that were available to us. Some literature cited was not 
readily available through known sources, and we requested these 
directly from the petitioner. For some species in NatureServe, there is 
a ``Local Programs'' link to the Web Sites of the State programs that 
contribute information to NatureServe. We found this ``Local Programs'' 
link to have additional information for very few of the 206 species. We 
reviewed information in references cited in NatureServe and information 
readily available in our files that was directly relevant to the 
information raised in the petition.
    We have already assessed 168 of the 206 species. This petition 
addresses the remaining 38 species, which are listed below in Table 1.

                              Table 1--List of 38 Species Included in This Finding
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          Scientific name                  Common name                Range                     Group
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species for which Substantial
 Information was not Presented:
Amnicola sp. 2.....................  Washington duskysnail.  ID, MT, WA............  Mollusk.
Camissonia exilis..................  Cottonwood Spring       AZ, UT................  Plant.
                                      suncup.
Discus brunsoni....................  Lake disc.............  MT....................  Mollusk.
Frasera gypsicola..................  Sunnyside green-        NV, UT................  Plant.
                                      gentian.
Lomatium latilobum.................  Canyonlands lomatium..  CO, UT................  Plant.
Lygodesmia doloresensis............  Dolores River           CO, UT................  Plant.
                                      skeletonplant.
Oreohelix sp. 4....................  Drummond mountainsnail  MT....................  Mollusk.
Oreohelix amariradix...............  Bitterroot              MT....................  Mollusk.
                                      mountainsnail.
Oreohelix carinifera...............  Keeled mountainsnail..  MT....................  Mollusk.
Species for which Substantial
 Information was Presented:
Abronia ammophila..................  Yellowstone sand        WY....................  Plant.
                                      verbena.
Agrostis rossiae...................  Ross' bentgrass.......  WY....................  Plant.
Astragalus hamiltonii..............  Hamilton milkvetch....  CO, UT................  Plant.
Astragalus iselyi..................  Isely milkvetch.......  UT....................  Plant.
Astragalus microcymbus.............  Skiff milkvetch.......  CO....................  Plant.
Astragalus proimanthus.............  Precocious milkvetch..  WY....................  Plant.
Astragalus sabulosus...............  Cisco milkvetch.......  UT....................  Plant.
Astragalus schmolliae..............  Schmoll milkvetch.....  CO....................  Plant.
Boechera (Arabis) pusilla..........  Fremont County          WY....................  Plant.
                                      rockcress.
Catinella gelida...................  Frigid ambersnail.....  IA, IL, IN, KY          Mollusk.
                                                              (Extirpated), MI, MO,
                                                              MS, OH, SD, WI.
Corispermum navicula...............  Boat-shaped bugseed...  CO....................  Plant.
Cryptantha semiglabra..............  Pine Springs            AZ, UT................  Plant.
                                      cryptantha.
Draba weberi.......................  Weber whitlowgrass....  CO....................  Plant.
Eriogonum brandegeei...............  Brandegee's wild        CO....................  Plant.
                                      buckwheat.
Eriogonum soredium.................  Frisco buckwheat......  UT....................  Plant.
Ironoquia plattensis...............  Platte River caddisfly  NE....................  Invertebrate.
Lednia tumana......................  Meltwater lednian       CAN: MB USA: MT, ND,    Invertebrate.
                                      stonefly.               WA.
Lepidium ostleri...................  Ostler's peppergrass..  UT....................  Plant.
Lepidomeda copei...................  Northern leatherside    ID, NV, UT, WY........  Fish.
                                      Chub.
Lesquerella navajoensis............  (No common name)......  AZ, NM, NN, UT........  Plant.
Oreohelix sp. 3....................  Bearmouth               MT....................  Mollusk.
                                      mountainsnail.
Oreohelix sp. 31...................  Byrne Resort            MT....................  Mollusk.
                                      mountainsnail.
Penstemon flowersii................  Flowers penstemon.....  UT....................  Plant.
Penstemon gibbensii................  Gibben's beardtongue..  CO, UT, WY............  Plant.
Pyrgulopsis anguina................  Longitudinal gland      NV, UT................  Mollusk.
                                      pyrg.
Pyrgulopsis hamlinensis............  Hamlin Valley pyrg....  UT....................  Mollusk.
Pyrgulopsis saxatilis..............  Sub-globose snake pyrg  UT....................  Mollusk.
Sisyrinchium sarmentosum...........  Pale blue-eyed grass..  ND, OR, WA............  Plant.
Trifolium friscanum................  Frisco clover.........  UT....................  Plant.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Five-Factor Evaluation

    Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) and its implementing 
regulations at 50 CFR 424 set forth the procedures for adding species 
to the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. 
A species, subspecies, or distinct population segment of vertebrate 
taxa may be determined to be endangered or threatened due to one or 
more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act: (A) 
The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of 
its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for

[[Page 41652]]

commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) 
disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory 
mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its 
continued existence. Listing actions may be warranted based on any of 
the above factors, singly or in combination.
    Under the Act, a threatened species is defined as a species that is 
likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. An endangered 
species is defined as a species that is in danger of extinction 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. In making this 
90-day finding, we evaluated whether information on each of the 38 
species, as presented in the petition and other information in our 
files is substantial, indicating that listing any of the 38 species as 
threatened or endangered may be warranted. Our evaluation is presented 
below.
    We separately addressed each species with respect to the five 
factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act. For each species, we 
fully evaluated all information available to us through the NatureServe 
website, and in our files. Because so little information was available 
in our files for these, typically rare, species, we did not distinguish 
between information obtained from the website and our files.

Species for Which Substantial Information Was Not Presented

Amnicola sp. 2 (Washington Duskysnail)

    Currently, three locations of the Washington duskysnail exist 
[boxh] two in Washington and one in Montana. Washington duskysnail 
(Amnicola sp. 2) may be the same as a species included in a separate 
petition to list 32 species of mollusks, also called Washington 
duskysnail (Lyogyrus sp. 2). The historical range of Amnicola sp. 2 is 
hypothesized to include a larger area; according to Frest and Johannes 
(1995, p. 158), the species is declining in populations and number of 
individuals; however, this information is speculative because the 
authors based their analysis of the species' historical range on 
geographic characteristics, not on actual survey data.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, the species' 
survival is thought to be affected by poor water quality associated 
with residential development, grazing, logging, and intentional aquatic 
organism control activities and fish reintroductions that occur in 
potential habitat or existing areas of occurrence. These activities, 
which potentially adversely affect water quality are general, and no 
quantification, verification, or subsequent effect to the species was 
presented.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Washington 
duskysnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range due 
to activities affecting water quality.

Cammissonia exilis (Cottonwood Spring Suncup)

    Camissonia exilis is endemic to gypsiferous soils in Kane County, 
Utah, and Coconino and Mohave Counties, Arizona. The species is a 
narrow endemic, which may affect its ability to persist when faced with 
habitat reductions. Not much is known about this species.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, off-road vehicle 
(ORV) use and woodcutting are known to occur at some sites occupied by 
the species; however, no quantification, verification, or effect to the 
species was presented.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Camissonia exilis 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range due to ORV use or 
woodcutting.

Discus brunsoni (Lake Disc)

    The lake disc is a mollusk found only on the north shore of 
McDonald Lake in the Mission Range, Lake County, Montana. The species 
is a highly localized endemic. Limited survey information exists, and 
population trends are unknown. The species has been consistently 
present at the location from 1948 to 1997 (Hendricks 2003a, p. 10). 
Although extensive surveys have been performed, only 1 location of 
approximately 100 by 300 yards (91 by 274 meters) in size is known 
(Brunson 1956, p. 17; Hendricks 2003a, pp. 9-11). As additional 
information is gathered on the requirements of the species, more 
occupied locations may be determined; however, the species is difficult 
to detect even when present and with significant survey effort (Brunson 
1956, entire; Hendricks 2003b, p. 10).
    Factor A: Fire and subsequent talus destabilization above and below 
the occupancy site of this species could threaten its habitat (Frest 
and Johannes 1995, p. 98), but substantial information on these 
potential threats was not presented. Much of the Mission Range has been 
logged, or is slated for logging, but this potential threat likely does 
not affect the species because it is associated with loose rock talus 
slopes that support lichens and mosses (Brunson 1956, p. 17), and low 
canopy cover but not trees (Hendricks 2003b p. 9). Other snail species 
are found in duff at the sides of talus slides, but the lake disc has 
not been found in duff (Hendricks 2003a, p. 5). Livestock generally 
avoid unstable rocky slopes and, therefore, the species is not likely 
to be affected by them (Hendricks 2003a, p. 5). A recreation trail 
exists at the site (Hendricks 2003a, p. 11), but effects related to it 
have not been documented or linked to the species.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: The species has had a limited geographic range since 
1948. However, no information was presented either in NatureServe or 
the petition indicating that a restricted range may be a threat to the 
species.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Discus brunsoni may 
be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range due to fire, talus 
destabilization, logging, livestock, recreational use, or due to the 
species' restricted range.

Frasera gypsicola (Sunnyside Green-Gentian)

    Frasera gypsicola grows on white calcareous barrens and Pleistocene 
spring-mounds in Millard County, Utah, and Nye and White Counties, 
Nevada. The White River Valley of Nevada contains 9 previously known 
sites (Smith 2000, p. 8) and 17 newly discovered sites (Forbis 2007, 
pp. 2-3). Populations include approximately 69,000 individuals on 321 
hectares (ha) (793 acres (ac)) (Smith 1994, p. 8). The size of the Utah 
population is unknown,

[[Page 41653]]

but considered to be much smaller (England pers. comm. 2008).
    Factor A: Potential threats include livestock trampling, road 
widening, seismic exploration, juniper cutting, and agricultural or ORV 
use (Smith 2000, p. 14). However, no evidence was presented to indicate 
that any of these activities currently pose a threat to any of the 
known populations (Smith 2000, pp. 14-15).
    Factors B and C: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor D: The species is protected by the State of Nevada, and is 
managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as a sensitive species. 
Two Areas of Critical Environmental Concern have been designated that 
include substantial habitat for the species (Forbis 2007, p. 2). 
Neither the petition nor NatureServe present any information concerning 
the adequacy of this designation as a regulatory mechanism.
    Factor E: The species may be sensitive to climate-change-induced 
drought and resulting habitat changes (Smith 2000, p. 15); however, no 
information was presented in the petition or exists in our files to 
verify this.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Frasera gypsicola 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
livestock trampling, road widening, seismic exploration, juniper 
cutting, and agricultural or ORV use; due to the inadequacy of existing 
regulatory mechanisms; or due to other natural or manmade factors 
affecting its continued existence.

Lomatium latilobum (Canyonlands Lomatium)

    Lomatium latilobum is endemic to sand substrates at low elevations 
in Grand and San Juan Counties, Utah, and Mesa County, Colorado. There 
are 4,000 plants in 14 occurrences in Utah (Franklin 1995, appendix C) 
and 1,825 plants in 5 occurrences in Colorado (Colorado Natural 
Heritage Program 2008a, p. 1).
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, potential threats 
to the species include ORV use, cattle grazing, hikers, and mountain 
bikes, but no quantification, verification, or effects to the species 
were presented.
    Factors B and C: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor D: The species is listed as sensitive by the National Park 
Service, U.S. Forest Service, and BLM. Neither the petition nor 
NatureServe present any information concerning the adequacy of this 
designation as a regulatory mechanism.
    Factor E: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Lomatium latilobum 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from ORV 
use, cattle grazing, hikers, or mountain bikes; or due to the 
inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms.

Lygodesmia doloresensis (Dolores River Skeletonplant)

    Lygodesmia doloresensis is a narrow endemic limited to the Dolores 
River Canyon in Grand County, Utah, and Mesa and San Miguel Counties in 
Colorado, and one location outside the Dolores River Canyon in Rabbit 
Valley, Colorado. There are 17 known occurrences; 12 of these are in 
Colorado, although 2 are considered historical because they have not 
been seen in over 20 years (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2008b, p. 
21). In Colorado, population estimates are available for only 6 of the 
12 occurrences, totaling 2,580 plants (Colorado Natural Heritage 
Program 2008b, p. 21). The remaining occurrences occur along the 
Dolores River in Utah, near the Colorado border. The taxonomy of L. 
doloresensis is currently being reviewed (Tomb 1980, pp. 48-50; Welsh 
et al. 2003, pp. 210-211).
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, potential threats 
include livestock grazing, road maintenance, and nonnative plants, but 
no quantification, verification, or effect to the species was 
presented.
    Factors B and C: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor D: The species is listed as sensitive by BLM. Neither the 
petition nor NatureServe present any information concerning the 
adequacy of this designation as a regulatory mechanism.
    Factor E: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Lygodesmia 
doloresensis may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from livestock grazing, road maintenance, or nonnative 
plants; or due to the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms.

Oreohelix sp. 4 (Drummond Mountainsnail)

    The Drummond mountainsnail is an extremely rare, local endemic with 
one small site known to persist, and an uncertain historical 
distribution in Granite and Powell Counties, Montana. Potentially, 
additional sites are occupied. According to Frest and Johannes (1995, 
p. 116), the population trend is downward in number of sites and 
individuals based on extirpation in previously-occupied areas; however, 
this information is somewhat speculative because it is difficult to 
survey for snails--they tend to be cyclic, depending on weather and 
other natural factors.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, human activities 
such as logging, highway construction, roadside spraying, and grazing 
potentially cause population declines, but no quantification, 
verification, or effect to the species was presented.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: The species has a limited geographic range. However, no 
information was presented either in NatureServe or the petition 
indicating that habitat disturbance caused by stochastic events, 
exacerbated by small population sizes and a restricted range, may be a 
threat to the species.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of the Drummond 
mountainsnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from logging, highway construction, roadside spraying, or 
grazing.

Oreohelix amariradix (Bitterroot Mountainsnail)

    The Bitterroot mountainsnail is a local endemic with at least two 
known occurrences in the Lolo Creek drainage in Missoula County, 
Montana. There appears to be inconsistency in population and location 
information.

[[Page 41654]]

Errors in locations and species identification (confusion with other 
Oreohelix species) cited in previous reports bring into question range, 
threat, and population trend information (Hendricks 2003a, pp. 21-22). 
According to Frest and Johannes (1995, p. 105), the species is possibly 
declining based on absolute numbers, number of known and potential 
sites, and known habitat loss; however, this information is speculative 
due to past misidentifications.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, much of the 
Bitterroot Mountains have been logged, followed by intensified grazing. 
Roadside spraying for weed control could affect the species. Portions 
of the Lolo Pass and lower Lolo Creek area were subject to fires in 
1991 and 1993. Highway improvements resulted in removal of extensive 
portions of the taluses in the Lolo Creek drainage. However, no 
evidence exists to indicate that any of these activities currently pose 
a threat to any of the known populations.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of the Bitterroot 
mountainsnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from logging, grazing, roadside spraying, fires, or highway 
improvements.

Oreohelix carinifera (Keeled Mountainsnail)

    The keeled mountainsnail persists in a portion of its type locality 
(area where the species was first found and that is used to define the 
species' habitat). Four known sites exist near the Clark Fork River in 
Powell County, Montana, including a portion of the type locality. The 
species has been extirpated over parts of its range (Frest and Johannes 
1995, p. 105), although shell remains can still be found, suggesting 
recent population declines (Frest and Johannes 1995, p. 106). Limited 
survey information or effort exists. No published estimates of 
population size or relative abundance exist.
    Factor A: The type locality has been reduced by highway and urban 
encroachment due to the expansion of the City of Garrison, and 
additional threats cited as potentially affecting the species include 
grazing, logging, and road construction and maintenance (Frest and 
Johannes 1995, pp. 105-106; Hendricks 2003a, p. 26). However, no 
evidence exists to indicate that any of these activities currently pose 
a threat to any of the known populations or may do so in the future.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: Factor A threats could be exacerbated by recent drought. 
The species' occupied and potential habitat and the type locality 
colony have been reduced (Frest and Johannes 1995, pp. 105-106; 
Hendricks 2003a, p. 26). However, neither NatureServe nor the petition 
presented any information indicating that this is a threat.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition does not present 
substantial information to indicate that listing of the keeled 
mountainsnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from highway and urban encroachment, grazing, logging, or 
road construction; or other natural or manmade factors affecting its 
continued existence.

Species for Which Substantial Information Was Presented

Abronia ammophila (Yellowstone Sand Verbena)

    Abronia ammophila is endemic to Yellowstone National Park (Fertig 
2000a, p. 1; Whipple 2002, p. 257). The one known population consists 
of three locations along Yellowstone Lake (Fertig 2000a, p. 1). Habitat 
for this species consists of open, sandy, and sparsely vegetated 
shorelines, with the habitat likely maintained by wave action or 
erosion (Fertig 2000a, p. 1; Whipple 2002, p. 256). In 1998, the total 
population was conservatively estimated at 8,325 plants, with 96 
percent of them in 1 location (Fertig 2000a. p. 2). Trend data are 
lacking (Fertig 1997, unpubl. data), but the plant has been extirpated 
from at least one other known location as a result of human trampling 
associated with recreation (Fertig 1996, unpubl. data).
    Factor A: Yellowstone Lake is a high-use recreational area. Human 
impacts to the sandy habitats may pose a threat to the species (Whipple 
2002, p. 267).
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: The references within the NatureServe database indicated 
that habitat- disturbance caused by stochastic events, exacerbated by 
small population sizes and a restricted range, may be a threat to the 
species (Fertig 2000a, p. 1; Whipple 2002, p. 260).
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Abronia ammophila 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
recreational impacts. The possible threats to the species may be 
exacerbated by its small population size and a restricted range.

Agrostis rossiae (Ross' bentgrass)

    Agrostis rossiae is endemic to the Upper Geyser Basin of 
Yellowstone National Park (Dorn 1980, p. 59; Clark et al. 1989, p. 8), 
where four known populations exist (Fertig et al. 1994, unpaginated). 
The species occurs in warm soils around hot springs and geysers (Fertig 
et al. 1994, unpaginated; Fertig 2000b, p. 2). In 1995, the total 
population was estimated at 5,000 to 7,500 individuals (Fertig 2000b, 
p. 2). However, the ephemeral nature of the thermal habitats occupied 
by this species may result in rapid population fluctuation, making 
estimates difficult (Fertig 2000b, p. 2).
    Factor A: Park visitor activity, through trampling, is cited as a 
threat to the species (Fertig 2000b, p. 2). In addition, invasion of 
Agrostis scabra (rough bentgrass), which may be facilitated by park 
visitors, may be reducing the distribution of the species through 
displacement (Fertig 2000b, p. 2).
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: The changing thermal activity in occupied areas may 
affect habitat suitability for the species; one colony in Midway Geyser 
Basin was extirpated in the 1980s, likely due to a change in soil 
temperature resulting from a change in geyser activity (Fertig 2000b, 
p. 2). Small population sizes within a very restricted range make A. 
rossiae vulnerable to stochastic extinction events (Dorn 1980, p. 59).
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Agrostis rossiae 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its

[[Page 41655]]

habitat or range resulting from park visitation and competition from 
invasive species; and due to other natural or manmade factors affecting 
its continued existence resulting from thermal activity.

Astragalus hamiltonii (Hamilton milkvetch)

    Astragalus hamiltonii is endemic to low-elevation clay soils in 
Colorado and Uintah County, Utah, where 10 element occurrences exist. 
Only one of these element occurrences exists in Colorado. Element 
occurrences are part of scientific methodology established by Natural 
Heritage programs, and are the spatial representation of a species 
population as documented through voucher specimens or other methods. 
Population estimates are 10,000 to 15,000 individuals (Colorado Natural 
Heritage Program 2008c, p. 1).
    Factor A: Energy exploration and development are planned, and can 
impact the landscape where Astragalus hamiltonii exists (Neese and 
Smith 1982; Heil and Melton 1995; BLM 2008, pp. 4-239 to 4-245). Oil 
and gas geophysical exploration usually involves either drilling holes 
and detonating explosives, or using a vibrating pad that is driven 
across an area using heavy vehicles. The extent of impact from either 
exploration method is unknown, but the vibrations and potential soil 
impacts may impact habitat and any species in the area. Oil and gas 
development involves staging a drilling rig, setting up additional 
equipment, and building roads to access each site, which may fragment 
the species' habitat. Similarly, soil disturbance occurs in oil and gas 
fields and would impact the habitat that lies within the footprint of 
well pads and roads, and areas disturbed during the development of that 
infrastructure. Any soil that is moved may have a direct impact on A. 
hamiltonii individuals that are present. Once a rig is in place, the 
drilling process creates vibrations that may impact habitat and any 
plants in the area. Once a well has been drilled and is producing, 
energy companies make regular trips to well pads to monitor production, 
conduct maintenance, or collect extracted resources. These regular 
trips may disturb A. hamiltonii plants present at or near well pads and 
roads. The introduction and spread of nonnative plants may result from 
energy development activities, and this would negatively impact A. 
hamiltonii. Over 90 percent of the species' population is associated 
with surface mineable deposits of the Little Water, Spring Hollow, and 
Cow Wash Tar Sand deposits (BLM 2008a, pp. 3-50, 3-174; Neese and Smith 
1982; Heil and Melton 1995; BLM 2008, pp. 4-239 to 4-245). ORV use and 
nonnative plants are potential threats to the species (Heil and Melton 
1995, p. 16).
    Factor B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus 
hamiltonii may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from energy exploration and development.

Astragalus iselyi (Isely milkvetch)

    Astragalus iselyi is endemic to low-elevation clay soils in Grand 
and San Juan Counties in southeastern Utah. The species has a narrow 
range and a small population estimated at approximately 2,500 
individuals.
    Factor A: Uranium mining was once a threat, and uranium mining is 
again proposed for the area and is a potential threat to the existing 
population (Franklin 2003 pp. 1, 2, 35, 46). ORV use occurs within 
sites occupied by the species and is a potential threat (Hreha 1982, 
pp. 16-17; Franklin 2003, pp. 1, 2, 9, 37; Heil et al. 1991, p. 9; 
Thompson 1987, p. 3). The species' narrow range and small population 
size renders it vulnerable to any habitat disturbing activity (Franklin 
2003, pp. 1, 2).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus iselyi 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
uranium mining and possibly ORV use within the occupied sites.

Astragalus microcymbus (Skiff milkvetch)

    Astragalus microcymbus exists in 4 element occurrences within a 
range of about 24 kilometers (km) (15 miles (mi)) that includes an 
estimated 10,322 individuals (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2008d, 
pp. 4-5). Its habitat is found mainly on Federal land in a BLM Area of 
Critical Environmental Concern, and in a Colorado Natural Area. A 1994 
not-substantial finding on a petition to list this species indicated 
that drought and herbivory could not be clearly shown to present a 
substantial threat to the species.
    However, four demographic monitoring plots show an overall decline 
in numbers. The decline occurred from 1995 to 2002, and then a 
relatively stable trend occurred from 2003 until 2007 (Denver Botanic 
Gardens 2007, p. 4). The cause of 1995 to 2002 decline is unknown but 
may have been due to herbivory (Denver Botanic Gardens 2007, p. 7).
    Factors A, C, and E: A population viability analysis conducted in 
2007 predicted a loss of all four monitored populations by 2030 (Denver 
Botanic Gardens, p. 7); the reasons for this predicted decline are 
undocumented, but potentially include lack of precipitation, herbivory 
(primarily from rabbits), and episodic fruit production (Denver Botanic 
Gardens, p. 7). ORV use occurs within occupied habitat and could 
negatively impact habitat of A. microcymbus (Colorado Natural Heritage 
Program 2008d, p. 3).
    Factors B and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus 
microcymbus may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from ORV use; or due to other natural or manmade factors 
affecting its continued existence resulting from drought.

Astragalus proimanthus (precocious milkvetch)

    Astragalus proimanthus is restricted to the bluffs of the Henry's 
Fork River near McKinnon, Sweetwater County, Wyoming (Roberts 1977, p. 
63; WYNDD 2001, p. 2). The species' global distribution is limited to 
less than 130 ha (320 ac) on BLM land (WYNDD 2001, pp. 2, 3). This 
milkvetch occurs in plant communities on rocky clay and shale soils 
along rims, bluffs, and rocky ridges (Fertig et al. 1994, unpaginated; 
WYNDD 2001, p. 2). In 2000, the entire population was estimated at 
10,500 to 13,000 individuals, a reduction from estimates in the 1980s 
of 22,000 to 40,000 individuals (WYNDD 2001, p. 3); however, trend data 
are inconsistent between monitoring plots (WYNDD 2001, p. 3).
    Factor A: Purported threats to this species include road 
construction, ORV

[[Page 41656]]

use, oil and gas exploration and development, garbage dumps, livestock 
grazing, and range improvement projects (WYNDD 2001, p. 3). While the 
impacts of these threats were not quantified, the species is located in 
an area incurring substantial energy development (Fertig and Welp 2001, 
p. 16). Impacts from energy development to Astraglaus proimanthus are 
the same as shown under Factor A analysis for Astragalus hamiltonii 
above; activities are the same and would have the same effect on each 
plant species. These threats exist within the habitat of A. 
proimanthus, and are acting on the species to some degree.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus 
proimanthus may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from energy exploration and development.

Astragalus sabulosus (Cisco milkvetch)

    Astragalus sabulosus is a narrow endemic found in five locations in 
Grand County, Utah, that occur in a total area of approximately 320 ha 
(800 ac) (Atwood 1995, pp. 3, 4; Franklin 1988, p. 5). The species' 
population size is highly variable from year to year depending, 
presumably, on winter and spring precipitation. The total population is 
an estimated 25,000 individuals (Atwood 1995, pp. 5-6).
    Factor A: Potential threats to the species include ORV use, oil and 
gas development, uranium mining, and natural gas development (Atwood 
1995, pp. 7-9). Energy exploration and development and mining are 
planned in the population area, and can impact the landscape where the 
species exists (Atwood 1995, pp. 7-9). Impacts from energy development 
to Astraglaus sabulosus are the same as shown under Factor A analysis 
for Astragalus hamiltonii above; activities are the same and would have 
the same effect on each plant species. These threats exist within the 
habitat of A. sabulosus, and are acting on the species to some degree.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus 
sabulosus may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from energy exploration and development.

Astragalus schmolliae (Schmoll milkvetch)

    Astragalus schmolliae is known only from Chapin Mesa in Mesa Verde 
National Park (MVNP) and the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation in Montezuma 
County, Colorado. The 6 element occurrences include roughly 294,499 
individuals, all of which are in MVNP (Colorado Natural Heritage 
Program 2008e, pp. 8-9). Populations are likely to occur on the Ute 
Mountain Ute Reservation, but no survey data exist from this location.
    Factor A: A potential threat to the species is the invasion of 
nonnative species into burned areas it occupies. Carduus nutans (musk 
thistle) is particularly invasive in burned areas of southern MVNP, and 
has been observed invading areas occupied by A. schmolliae (summarized 
in Anderson 2004, p. 61). Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) also is invading 
occupied burned areas (Anderson 2004, pp. 60-61). The Chapin 5 fire in 
1996, and the Long Mesa Fire in 2002, impacted a large portion of the 
occurrences in MVNP. Burning may not have significantly impacted plant 
mortality, but long-term impacts of fire, such as nonnative invasion, 
are likely to cause a decline in populations (Anderson 2004, pp. 60-
61). Data on the species' response to nonnative invasions since 2006 
are not readily available. Visitor impacts to the species within MVNP 
are localized and minimal, limited to trampling of an occasional plant 
growing adjacent to a trail or road (Anderson 2004, p. 72). Outside 
MVNP boundaries, threats from road construction and grazing may exist 
(O'Kane 1988, p. 444).
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: A. schmolliae has declined 39 percent from 2001-2003; the 
decline was attributed to drought (Anderson 2004, p. 37 and Table 5).
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Astragalus 
schmolliae may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from impacts of fire and nonnative invasions, and possibly 
road construction and grazing; and due to other natural or manmade 
factors affecting its continued existence resulting from drought.

Boechera (formerly Arabis) pusilla (Fremont County rockcress)

    Boechera pusilla is known from one location in the southern Wind 
River Range, Fremont County, Wyoming (Fertig 2000c; p. 1; Heidel 2005, 
p. 6). The genus was changed from Arabis to Boechera in 2002 (Heidel 
2005, p. 1). Its habitat consists of crevices and sparsely vegetated 
granitic soils in granite-pegmatite outcrops, at an elevation of 2,438 
to 2,469 meters (8,000 to 8,100 feet) (Fertig 2000c, p. 1; Heidel 2005, 
pp. 8-9). Population estimates have varied from 800 to 1,000 
individuals in 1988, to 600 in 1990, to 100 to 150 plants in 2003 
(Heidel 2005, p. 14). Occupied habitat is limited to 2.4 to 6.5 ha (6 
to 16 ac) (Dorn 1990, p. 8; Heidel 2005, p. 15), entirely on BLM land. 
The Service previously identified B. pusilla as a candidate species for 
listing as endangered in 1992 due to small population numbers, 
restricted range, recreational activities, and existence of six mining 
claims within the species' habitats. Due to conservation measures 
implemented by the BLM, B. pusilla was withdrawn from candidate status 
in 1999. It is currently unclear whether conservation measures are 
adequate to protect the species.
    Factor A: ORV use occurs in the habitat of this species, and is 
likely affecting the species to some extent (Dorn 1990, p. 11; Fertig 
2000c, p. 2; Heidel 2005, p. 17). Mining historically occurred in the 
area, but it is not clear if mining directly affected this species 
(Heidel 2005, p. 17).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Boechera pusilla 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from ORV 
use.

Catinella gelida (Frigid ambersnail)

    The Frigid ambersnail is known from 14 sites in Iowa (Frest 1991, 
p. 17), 12 sites in the Black Hills of South Dakota (Frest and Johannes 
2002, p. 74), and 19 sites in Wisconsin (Nekola, 2003, p. 8). According 
to the NatureServe database,

[[Page 41657]]

the species is possibly extirpated in Missouri, Michigan, Indiana, 
Ohio, and Mississippi, and is presumed extirpated in Kentucky. The 
Frigid ambersnail could be a difficult species to sample because it is 
present in low densities, and is typically located 3 to 15 centimeters 
(1 to 6 inches) beneath the talus field surface (Frest 1991, p. 16). 
While information presented in the petition was not substantial, we 
have sufficient information in our files indicating that threats are 
impacting the Frigid ambersnail (Ostlie 2009, pp. 49 and 50). As such, 
we have already initiated a status review on several mollusk species, 
including this one.
    Factor A: The species may be found near roads, although this could 
be an artifact of survey bias, and in areas subject to livestock 
grazing and logging disturbances (Frest and Johannes 1993, p. 53; Frest 
and Johannes 2002, p. 73). Populations are small at all Iowa sites 
making the species more vulnerable to current threats of human and 
livestock trampling, and landslides (Frest 1991, p. 16; Frest and 
Johannes 1993, p. 53; Frest and Johannes 2002, p. 73). Wisconsin sites 
could be disturbed by development in the future (Nekola 2003, p. 21), 
but this threat is currently unsubstantiated. Known South Dakota sites 
are located near highways and roads, and most are subject to livestock 
trampling and effects of timber harvest (Frest and Johannes 2002, p. 
73).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    The petition did not present substantial information regarding the 
presence of the threats identified above. However, our files contain 
substantial information indicating that the petitioned action may be 
warranted. Generally, land snail individuals and colonies are 
vulnerable to land-use activities due to their small body size and 
specific habitat requirements. The species is State-listed as 
endangered in Iowa, and as a Species of Special Concern in Wisconsin. 
Based on our identification of likely threats, and indications that 
they are likely impacting the species to some degree, we have 
determined that substantial information exists to indicate that listing 
of Frigid ambersnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from the effects from roads, livestock trampling, and logging 
disturbances.

Corispermum navicula (boat-shaped bugseed)

    According to the NatureServe database, the taxonomy of Corispermum 
navicula is currently being questioned. The only two element 
occurrences are recorded in Jackson County, Colorado, and include an 
unknown number of plants on two active sand dune complexes covering 
about 15.5 km\2\ (6 mi\2\); total occupied habitat is about 173 ha (427 
ac) (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2008f, p. 12).
    Factor A: Heavy ORV use is allowed on one of the two dune 
complexes, and has negatively impacted the species by disturbing the 
habitat and destroying plants (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2008f, 
p. 12).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Corispermum 
navicula may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from ORV 
use.

Cryptantha semiglabra (Pipe Springs cryptantha)

    Cryptantha semiglabra is endemic to clay soils in Washington 
County, Utah, and Coconino and Mohave Counties, Arizona. No population 
data are currently available.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, all populations of 
this species exist within 11 km (7 mi) of Fredonia, Arizona, which is 
undergoing expansion. As a result, C. semiglabra may be facing threats 
resulting from development, but this potential threat has not been 
adequately identified by any source. The habitat of the species is 
subject to disturbance from garbage dumping, ORV use, and trampling 
(AGFD 2004, p. 3). No information was available concerning the status 
of this species in Utah.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Cryptantha 
semiglabra may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from livestock grazing and ORV use.

Draba weberi (Weber whitlowgrass)

    One occurrence of Draba weberi was recorded in 1969, in Summit 
County, Colorado, and this remains the only known location. The number 
of plants appears to have diminished from about 100 to 20 or 30 between 
the 1980s and 2006 (Decker 2006, p. 3).
    Factor A: The plants are found in shallow rock crevices easily 
accessed from a parking lot that is a popular point of access for 
climbers, hikers, and backcountry skiers (Decker 2006, p. 20); this 
level of recreational activity is likely to result in trampling. The 
population depends on water flowing from an outflow pipe below a dam 
that enters a relatively natural creek bed; under most circumstances, 
water flows from the outlet pipe into the stream channel (Decker 2006, 
p. 20). A municipal water company owns the property; road and dam 
construction and maintenance are potential threats to the species 
(Decker 2006, p. 7).
    Factors B and C: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor D: The dam property owners are aware of the plants and have 
no plans that would affect the habitat, but no conservation plans or 
agreements have been developed; therefore, the water flowing to the 
creek bed is not reliable (Decker 2006, pp. 7, 20).
    Factor E: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Draba weberi may be 
warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, modification, 
or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from recreational 
activities, and possibly activities related to road construction and 
dam maintenance.

Eriogonum brandegeei (Brandegee's wild buckwheat)

    Eight occurrences of Eriogonum brandegeei are currently considered 
extant, with an additional three considered historical because they 
have not been seen in over 20 years (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 
2008g, p. 15). The habitat consists of barren outcrops of white to 
grayish bentonite soils in Fremont and Chaffee Counties, Colorado. The 
6 occurrences for which we have plant estimates total 33,465 
individuals (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2008g, p. 15), but some

[[Page 41658]]

observer estimates have placed this number much higher, up to several 
million plants (Anderson 2006, pp. 3, 11). The species was made a 
candidate in 1993, but removed from candidate status in 1996 (61 FR 
7460) as a result of additional information collected from survey work 
(Anderson 2006, p. 11). A conservation assessment was completed for the 
species in 2006 by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (Anderson 
2006, entire). Population estimates in the millions are noted in the 
conservation assessment, and in our removal of the species from 
candidate status, but we lack survey documentation of these higher 
population estimates.
    Factor A: ORV and other recreational uses threaten some occurrences 
of Eriogonum brandegeei, and curtailment of these activities in plant 
occurrences would likely provide the greatest conservation benefit to 
the species (Anderson 2006, p. 3). Residential and commercial 
development has encroached on one of the healthiest occurrences, and 
could affect most of the species' range in the future; road 
construction related to increased development creates an additional 
threat to its habitat (Anderson 2006, p. 37). According to the 
NatureServe database, timber thinning and extraction is expected to 
cause direct mortality of plants, erosion, and invasion of nonnative 
plants; mining and oil and gas development are potential activities in 
this area, but the possible effects have not been assessed; bentonite 
mining resulted in habitat destruction in the past, but is not 
occurring now. Protection of plants is not considered prior to right-
of-way maintenance because rights-of-way are outside the area assessed 
for project work; however, this activity affects a small portion of the 
total population (Anderson 2006, p. 39). Grazing is a small threat, and 
invasive nonnative species pose a high but undocumented threat 
(Anderson 2006, p. 39).
    Factors B and C: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factor.
    Factor D: Four of the eight occurrences are partially within two 
BLM Areas of Critical Environmental Concern that also are State Natural 
Areas. Neither the petition nor NatureServe present any information 
concerning the adequacy of these designations as a regulatory 
mechanism. Some ORV route restrictions apply in these areas, but no 
restrictions apply to the remaining habitat, and therefore ORV use 
poses a potential threat to the species and its habitat.
    Factor E: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Eriogonum 
brandegeei may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from recreational activities, ORV use, development, and road 
construction; and due to the inadequacy of existing regulatory 
mechanisms related to ORV use.

Eriogonum soredium (Frisco buckwheat)

    Eriogonum soredium is a narrow endemic with small populations 
(Evenden 1998, p. 5). The three element occurrences are restricted to 
limestone outcrops on Grampian Hill in Beaver County, Utah (Evenden 
1998, appendix C). Estimates of the area of occupied habitat of the 
species range from 70 ha (170 ac) (Evenden 1998, appendix C) to 160 ha 
(400 ac) (Kass 1992, pp. 7-8). Estimates of the species' total 
population are 2,000 individuals (Kass 1992, p. 8) to approximately 
30,000 individuals (Evenden 1998, appendix C). These numbers are only 
estimates because approximately 90 percent of the species' habitat is 
on private land, and access to these areas to survey for the plant is 
limited.
    Factor A: Mineralized limestone substrates that sustain the species 
were subject to habitat destruction from precious metals mining. Over 
90 percent of the species' habitat is located on lands having private, 
patented mining claims (Evenden 1998 p. 9; Kass 1992, p. 9). This high-
value substrate on private lands to which we have no access is likely 
to be impacted by continued mining, and the future of E. soredium on 
those lands is tenuous. A small portion of the species' habitat may 
exist on adjacent BLM land; however, we currently have no information 
on the number of individuals or the magnitude of threats to the species 
on that land.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Eriogonum soredium 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
mining activities.

Ironoquia plattensis (Platte River caddisfly)

    The Platte River caddisfly is endemic to an approximately 75-km 
(46-mi) segment of the central Platte River that extends from 
approximately Gibbon, Buffalo, and Kearney Counties, Nebraska, to 
Central City, Merrick County, Nebraska, comprising approximately 63,940 
ha (158,000 ac) (Goldowitz 2004, p. 4). One population has likely been 
lost (Reins and Hoback 2008, p. 1). The species inhabits intermittent 
wetland habitats that are associated with the central Platte River. 
Intermittent wetland hydrology is affected by precipitation, periodic 
flooding, and groundwater levels as influenced by the nearby Platte 
River. Intermittent wetlands used by the Platte River caddisfly may 
contain water 75 to 90 percent of the time, but can typically go dry 
during the summer (Goldowitz 2004, p. 2), and completely freeze over 
during the winter (Alexander and Whiles 2000, p. 2).
    Factor A: Hydrologic regimes, which are increasingly altered by 
regulation of the Platte River for hydroelectric and agricultural 
purposes, influence the hydroperiod in intermittent wetlands and, 
therefore, the abundance and distribution of the Platte River caddisfly 
and other macroinvertebrates that rely on this habitat (Goldowitz 2004, 
p. 2). For example, construction of impoundments, dewatering the Platte 
River for irrigation, installation of new irrigation wells in the 
floodplain, land restoration and management projects, and channel 
modification pose threats to the longevity of intermittent wetland 
habitat utilized by the Platte River caddisfly (Goldowitz 2004, p. 2). 
An increase in row crop agriculture or vegetation control can increase 
nutrient, toxic, and pesticide runoff that could have direct or 
cumulative effects on the species; heavy grazing pressure in wetland 
and grassland habitats can result in removal and degradation of wetland 
habitats critical for larval development (Goldowitz 2004, p. 9).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Platte River 
caddisfly may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from construction of impoundments, dewatering the Platte

[[Page 41659]]

River for irrigation, installation of new irrigation wells in the 
floodplain, land restoration and management projects, and channel 
modification.

Lednia tumana (meltwater lednian stonefly)

    The meltwater lednian stonefly is a narrow endemic found in two 
known occurrences, both in Glacier National Park in Montana. No 
information exists to indicate that the species exists in other 
locations. The species is associated with glacier melt-water streams. 
An extensive survey in 1979 did not result in any additional 
occurrences (Baumann and Stewart 1980, p. 658). A 1980 survey showed 
moderate abundance (Baumann and Stewart 1980, p. 658); no more refined 
quantification occurred and no further information has been available.
    Factors A and E: Climate-change-related ecosystem modeling predicts 
the loss of glaciers in Glacier National Park by 2030 (Hall and Fagre 
2003, p. 138). This loss of glaciers could result in the loss or 
significant reduction of glacier melt-water streams, resulting in 
reduced habitat for the meltwater lednian stonefly. Glacier melt 
provides water and temperature moderation in high altitude streams.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of meltwater lednian 
stonefly may be warranted due to other natural or manmade factors 
affecting its continued existence resulting from climate-change-induced 
glacier loss.

Lepidium ostleri (Ostler's peppergrass)

    Lepidium ostleri is a narrow endemic with small populations 
(Evenden 1998, p. 5). The four element occurrences are restricted to 
limestone outcrops on Grampian Hill in Beaver County, Utah (Evenden 
1998, appendix C). Estimates of occupied habitat within the species' 
range are 80 ha (200 ac) (Evenden 1998, appendix C) to 160 ha (400 ac) 
(Kass 1992b, p. 7). Estimates of the species' total population are 700 
individuals (Kass 1992b, p. 8) to approximately 10,000 individuals 
(Evenden 1998, appendix C). These numbers are only estimates because 
approximately 90 percent of the species' habitat is on private land, 
and access to these areas to survey for the plant is limited. 
Population estimates from Evenden and Kass are more than a decade old, 
and no verification of their survey results has been made.
    Factor A: Mineralized limestone substrates that sustain the species 
were subject to habitat destruction from precious metals mining. Over 
90 percent of the species' habitat is located on lands having private, 
patented mining claims (Evenden 1998 p. 9; Kass 1992, p. 9). This high-
value substrate on private lands to which we have no access is likely 
to be impacted by continued mining, and the future of L. ostleri on 
those lands is tenuous. A small portion of the species' habitat may 
exist on adjacent BLM land; however, we currently have no information 
on the number of individuals or the magnitude of threats to the species 
on that land.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Lepidium ostleri 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
mining activities.

Lepidomeda copei (northern leatherside chub)

    The northern leatherside chub's historical range encompassed the 
northeastern margins of the Bonneville Basin in Utah, Idaho, and 
Wyoming; the Pacific Basin, Goose Creek, Wood and Raft Rivers in Idaho 
and Nevada; and the Snake River above Shoshone Falls in Idaho and 
Wyoming (UDWR 2009, p. 28). The current range includes fragmented 
populations in the Bear River drainage, the Snake River drainage, and 
introduced populations in the Colorado River Basin, including the 
Fremont River, Pleasant Creek, Dirty Devil River, and Quitchupah Creek 
in Utah (UDWR 2009, p. 29). Some taxonomic uncertainty exists; two 
evolutionarily distinct species of leatherside chub have recently been 
recognized (Johnson et al. 2004, pp. 841-855; Belk et al. 2005, p. 
182). This taxon was formerly considered to be conspecific with the 
southern leatherside chub, and to be in the genus Gila (as cited in 
IDFG 2005, Appendix F, p. 25). A Conservation Agreement and Strategy on 
the species in its current range has recently been finalized by a 
coalition of Federal and State agencies, and nongovernmental 
organizations; a technical team is assessing issues related to the 
northern leatherside chub (UDWR 2009, entire).
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, potential threats 
to the species include habitat degradation, fragmentation, and loss 
from water developments (e.g., irrigation projects, dewatering); stream 
alterations (e.g., channelization, barriers); siltation; grazing; and 
nonnative brown trout. The conservation agreement further describes 
these threats; surveys indicate that the species is declining due to 
fragmentation from human-caused activities, including water diversions, 
nonnative species, and grazing (IDFG 2005, p. 5; Appendix F, p. 26).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of northern 
leatherside chub may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from water developments, stream alterations, livestock 
trampling, and nonnative brown trout.

Lesquerella navajoensis (no common name)

    Lesquerella navajoensis is endemic to Todilto limestone outcrops in 
Kane County, Utah; Apache County, Arizona; and McKinley County, New 
Mexico. Little is known about populations or distribution of this 
species beyond the two known occurrences.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, mining is 
considered a threat to the species, outcrops of Todilto limestone are 
not abundant in the area, and are actively mined in New Mexico for road 
base material. Habitat at one of the two known population sites in New 
Mexico has been quarried, and the species exists there only on a narrow 
remnant of the mesa rim (New Mexico Rare Plant Technical Council 1999, 
Web site). No information on this species in Utah or Arizona was 
available.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Lesquerella 
navajoensis may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or

[[Page 41660]]

curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from mining.

Oreohelix sp. 3 (bearmouth mountainsnail)

    The bearmouth mountainsnail is a local endemic with one small site 
known in Granite and Powell Counties, Montana (Frest and Johannes 1995, 
p. 115). The NatureServe database indicates that the species has been 
in decline in absolute numbers and number of sites, potentially due to 
human activities (Frest and Johannes 1995, p. 115); however, no 
population numbers were cited, and further information has not been 
available since 1995.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, potential threats 
to the species' habitat include talus disturbance, and construction and 
maintenance of highways. Effects from highways and associated frontage 
roads have impacted known sites (Frest and Johannes 1995, p. 115). 
Grazing has been cited as a potential threat (Frest and Johannes 1995, 
p. 115); however, the species exists in rocky habitat not suited to 
livestock grazing.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of bearmouth 
mountainsnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from highways and associated activities.

Oreohelix sp. 31 (Byrne Resort mountainsnail)

    The Byrne Resort mountainsnail is a local endemic known only in one 
site in the Clark Fork River Valley in Granite County, Montana. 
Additional occurrences may exist on neighboring national forest land, 
but survey information is not available. Based on survey data, 
previously known sites have been extirpated, and a decline of 
populations and absolute numbers has occurred (Frest and Johannes 1995, 
p. 140).
    Factor A: The species occurs at the base of talus sites that are 
subject to removal for road construction and fill. Effects from 
highways and associated frontage roads have impacted known occurrence 
sites, resulting in extirpation at some sites (Frest and Johannes 1995, 
p. 140). According to the NatureServe database, extensive alteration of 
the area has occurred from recreational resort activities, grazing, and 
highway construction; however, uncertainty exists as to whether the 
species has been directly affected by recreational activities and 
grazing.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Byrne Resort 
mountainsnail may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from road construction.

Penstemon flowersii (flowers penstemon)

    Penstemon flowersii is endemic to fine soils derived from the Uinta 
Formation at low elevations in the Uinta Basin in Duchesne and Uintah 
Counties, Utah. Little is known about this species. It is a narrow 
endemic, and all known habitat is on private and Ute Tribe lands (Heil 
and Melton 1995, pp. 8-10). Heil and Melton (1995, p. 13) estimate the 
species population at 15,000 to 20,000 individuals.
    Factor A: The species is impacted by ORV use (Heil and Melton 1995, 
p. 15). Energy exploration and development are planned in the landscape 
where Penstemon flowersii exists (Heil and Melton 1995, pp. 15-16). 
Impacts from energy development to A. flowersii are the same as shown 
under Factor A analysis for Astragalus hamiltonii above; activities are 
the same and would have the same effect on each plant species. These 
threats exist within the habitat of P. flowersii, and are acting on the 
species to some degree.
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Penstemon flowersii 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from ORV 
use and energy exploration and development.

Penstemon gibbensii (Gibben's beardtongue)

    Penstemon gibbensii is endemic to south-central Wyoming and 
adjacent northeastern Utah, and northwestern Colorado (Fertig 2000d, p. 
2). Most of the species' known range exists in Wyoming, in Sweetwater 
and Carbon Counties, and encompasses approximately 40 ha (100 ac) 
(Fertig 2000d, p. 2). Habitat for this species is primarily sparsely 
vegetated shale or sandstone slopes (Fertig et al. 1994, unpaginated; 
Fertig and Neighbors 1996, p. 109), associated with the Browns Park 
Formation and Green River shale (Fertig 2000d, p. 2). In Wyoming, four 
populations are known (Fertig 2000d, p. 2). Only one known population 
has been identified in Colorado, in Brown's Park; this population 
extends into Daggett County, Utah (Fertig and Neighbors 1996, p. 6). In 
1995, 3 of the Wyoming populations were estimated to have a total 
population of 8,600 to 8,900 plants, and a 1999 survey of the fourth 
Wyoming population resulted in an estimated 4,500 to 5,000 plants 
(Fertig 2000d, p. 2). Long-term trend data are lacking (Fertig 2000d, 
p. 2). P. gibbensii was formerly designated as a C2 candidate species 
for listing. The C2 designation was used for species for which there 
was evidence of vulnerability, but for which the Service lacked 
sufficient biological data to support a listing proposal. In 1996, the 
Service ceased using the C2 designation (61 FR 64481; December 5, 
1996).
    Factor A: Potential threats to the species include habitat loss and 
degradation resulting from land uses that cause soil erosion, 
particularly grazing, mineral development (primarily oil and gas 
exploration), and recreation (Fertig and Neighbors 1996, pp. 19-20; 
Fertig 2000d, p. 3). Grazing is the primary threat to the species 
(WYNDD 2000, p. 27). ORV use affects the species; although it may 
colonize disturbed areas at the margins, it cannot become established 
where direct vehicle use occurs (WYNDD 2000, p. 28). Oil and gas 
development has increased greatly in the species' habitat in recent 
years (WYNDD 2000, p. 27). The magnitude of effects from energy 
development is unknown, because the species tends to occur on slopes 
that are too unstable to support oil drilling platforms (Fertig and 
Neighbors 1996, p. 20).
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Factor E: According to the references contained in NatureServe, 
drought may be a threat to the species (WYNDD 2000, pp. 3, 28).
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial

[[Page 41661]]

information to indicate that listing of Penstemon gibbensii may be 
warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, modification, 
or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from energy 
exploration and development, livestock grazing, and ORV use.

Pyrgulopsis anguina (longitudinal gland pyrg)

    The longitudinal gland pyrg is a freshwater snail endemic to Snake 
Valley, a large valley that straddles the Nevada-Utah border (Hershler 
1998, p. 110). This species is known from spring systems in White Pine 
County, Nevada, and Millard County, Utah (Hershler 1998, p. 111; Bio-
West 2007, pp. 86-87).
    Factors A and E: Bio-West (2007, p. 91) characterized disturbances 
at species' sites (spring diversion, domestic livestock grazing, 
impacts from roads and residences, drought) as moderate to high in 
2007. Additional potential threats include agricultural development 
(State of Utah 2007, p. 88) and habitat changes (e.g., reduction in 
spring discharge) that may result from climate change or groundwater 
withdrawal by the Southern Nevada Water Authority in Snake and Spring 
Valleys (Congdon 2006, pp. 3, 15; Elliot et al. 2006, pp. 44, 157).
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of longitudinal gland 
pyrg may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
spring diversions, livestock trampling, roads, and development; and due 
to other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence 
resulting from drought and effects of climate change.

Pyrgulopsis hamlinensis (Hamlin Valley pyrg)

    The Hamlin Valley pyrg is a freshwater snail that is a narrow 
endemic found in only one location in Beaver County, Utah.
    Factors A and E: Herschler (1998, p. 105) characterized 
disturbances at springs inhabitated by freshwater snails throughout the 
region, including Hamlin Valley pyrg, as including spring diversion, 
domestic livestock grazing, impacts from roads and residences, and 
drought. Additional potential threats include agricultural development 
(State of Utah 2007, p. 88) and habitat changes (e.g., reduction in 
spring discharge) that may result from climate change or groundwater 
contamination from several sources, including water filings by the 
Central Iron County Water Conservancy District in Utah, and Southern 
Nevada Water Authority projects in the Snake and Spring Valleys 
(Congdon 2006, pp. 3, 15; Elliot et al. 2006, pp. 44, 157). These 
threats exist within the habitat of the Hamlin Valley pyrg, and are 
acting on the species to some degree.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Hamlin Valley pyrg 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
spring diversions, livestock trampling, roads, and development; and due 
to other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence 
resulting from drought and effects of climate change.

Pyrgulopsis saxatilis (sub-globose snake pyrg)

    The sub-globose snake pyrg is a freshwater snail that is a narrow 
endemic known from one spring in Millard County, Utah.
    Factors A and E: Herschler (1998, p. 105) characterized 
disturbances at springs inhabitated by freshwater snails throughout the 
region, including the sub-globose snake pyrg, as including spring 
diversion, domestic livestock grazing, impacts from roads and 
residences, and drought. Additional potential threats include 
agricultural development (State of Utah 2007, p. 88), the presence of 
the invasive mollusk Melanoides, and habitat changes (e.g., reduction 
in spring discharge) that may result from climate change or groundwater 
contamination from several sources, including water filings by the 
Central Iron County water Conservancy District in Utah, and Southern 
Nevada Water Authority projects in the Snake and Spring Valleys 
(Congdon 2006, pp. 3, 15; Elliot et al. 2006, pp. 44, 157). These 
threats exist within the habitat of the sub-globose snake pyrg, and are 
acting on the species to some degree.
    Factors B, C, and D: No information was presented in the petition 
concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of sub-globose snake 
pyrg may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
spring diversions, livestock trampling, roads, and development; and due 
to other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence 
resulting from drought and effects of climate change.

Sisyrinchium sarmentosum (Pale blue-eyed grass)

    Sisyrinchium sarmentosum is a narrow endemic that exists in 
Klickitat and Skamania Counties in southcentral Washington, and 
Clackamas County in northern Oregon. Records of this plant existing in 
North Dakota are suspect, and likely inaccurate. According to the 
NatureServe database, the species is currently known from about 18 
occurrences, and the total number of individuals is thought to be 5,000 
to 7,000. The species is listed as threatened by Washington State (WNHP 
2009, Web site). Insufficient historical data exist to determine an 
overall trend in species abundance and distribution.
    Factor A: According to the NatureServe database, the species has 
shown some ability to withstand disturbance, but development and 
agricultural activities have limited the amount of suitable habitat. 
The smaller occurrences are probably threatened by plant succession 
leading to canopy closure (Thomas 2009, pers. comm.). Some degree of 
threat may be posed by ORV use of the meadows where the species occurs 
(Thomas 2009, pers. comm.).
    Factor B: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Factor C: Grazing directly impacts the plant's ability to reproduce 
by seed and, therefore, to broaden its genetic variability by 
reproduction through cross-pollination with other plants (Thomas 2009, 
pers. comm.). When seeds are consumed by grazing animals, the plant 
shifts its reproductive strategy to vegetative reproduction. Vegetative 
reproduction narrows the genetic makeup of plants, and the species does 
not benefit from cross pollination with other neighboring plants.
    Factor D: No information was presented in the petition concerning 
threats to this species from the factor.
    Factor E: The species is threatened by a genetic bottleneck and 
reduction in genetic flow, leading to reduced genetic

[[Page 41662]]

variation (Thomas 2009, pers. comm.). Because of the reduction in 
genetic exchange it faces in the wild, the species is less capable of 
withstanding other environmental stressors like drought, or climate 
change (Thomas 2009, pers. comm.).
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Sisyrinchium 
sarmentosum may be warranted due to the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range 
resulting from development, livestock trampling, plant succession, and 
possibly ORV use; and due to other natural or manmade factors affecting 
its continued existence resulting from genetic reduction, drought, and 
effects of climate change.

Trifolium friscanum (Frisco clover)

    Trifolium friscanum is a narrow endemic with small populations 
(Evenden 1998, p. 6). The two element occurrences are restricted to 
limestone outcrops on Grampian Hill in Beaver County, Utah (Evenden 
1998, appendix C), and in the nearby Tunnel Spring Mountains (Evenden 
1999, pp. 6-7). Estimates of the area of occupied habitat vary from 30 
ha (75 ac) (Evenden 1998, appendix C; Evenden 1999, appendix B) to 225 
ha (560 ac) (Kass 1992, pp. 7-8). Estimates of the species' total 
population vary from 2,000 individuals (Kass 1992, p. 7) to 
approximately 3,500 individuals (Evenden 1998, appendix C; Evenden 
1999, appendix B).
    Factor A: Mineralized limestone substrates that sustain the species 
were historically subjected to habitat destruction from precious metals 
mining. Over 80 percent of the species' habitat is located on lands 
having private, patented mining claims (Evenden 1998, p. 9; Kass 1992, 
p. 9).
    Factors B, C, D, and E: No information was presented in the 
petition concerning threats to this species from the factors.
    Based on our evaluation of the information provided in the petition 
and in our files, we have determined that the petition presents 
substantial information to indicate that listing of Trifolium friscanum 
may be warranted due to the present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range resulting from 
mining.

Finding

    We reviewed and evaluated 38 of the 206 petitioned species, based 
on the information in the petition and the literature cited in the 
petition, and we have evaluated the information to determine whether 
the sources cited support the claims made in the petition relating to 
the five listing factors. We also reviewed reliable information in our 
files.
    We find that the petition does not present substantial information 
that listing may be warranted for nine species: Washington duskysnail 
(Amnicola sp. 2), Camissonia exilis (Cottonwood Spring suncup), lake 
disc (Discus brunsoni), Frasera gypsicola (Sunnyside green-gentian), 
Lomatium latilobum (Canyonlands lomatium), Lygodesmia doloresensis 
(Dolores river skeletonplant), Drummond mountainsnail (Oreohelix sp. 
4), Bitterroot mountainsnail (Oreohelix amariradix), and keeled 
mountainsnail (Oreohelix carinifera).
    We find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information that listing the remaining 29 of the 38 species 
that we evaluated as threatened or endangered under the Act may be 
warranted. Therefore, we are initiating a status review to determine 
whether listing these 29 species under the Act is warranted.
    We previously determined that emergency listing of any of the 38 
species is not warranted. However, if at any time we determine that 
emergency listing of any of the species is warranted, we will initiate 
an emergency listing.
    The petitioners also request that critical habitat be designated 
for the species concurrent with final listing under the Act. If we 
determine in our 12-month finding, following the status review of the 
species, that listing is warranted, we will address the designation of 
critical habitat in the subsequent proposed rule.

References Cited

    A complete list of references cited is available on the Internet at 
Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2008-0131 at http://www.regulations.gov and upon 
request from the Mountain-Prairie Region Ecological Services Office 
(see ADDRESSES).

Author

    The primary authors of this document are the staff members of the 
Mountain-Prairie Region Ecological Services Offices (see ADDRESSES).

Authority

    The authority for this action is the Endangered Species Act of 
1973, as amended (U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

    Dated: August 6, 2009.
Jerome Ford,
Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. E9-19494 Filed 8-17-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P