As a result, this plant was historically rare. Historical changes in habitat resulting from the conversion of glades to pasture and the encrachment of fescue were reasons for the original concern and listing of this species. Recent surveys indicate that populations were lost as glades were converted to pasture, however, healthy populations still exist. Geocarpon has very specific habitat requirements. Its continued survival is dependent on appropriate glade management.
Landowners can take an active role in protecting and properly managing sandstone glade habitats.
Converting glades leads to increased siltation into the sandy depressions where geocarpon is found. Once fescue and other introduced grasses becomve established in these depressions, the compete with geocarpon for space and nutrients. Overgrazing may also lead to decreased glade habitat quality by making it easier for woody plants to invade glades. Lack of periodic prairie grassland fires Historical fires probably helped reduce invasion by woody plants and the accumulation of leaf litter. Accumulation of leaf litter from trees in or around glades leads to a build up of soil.