The final rule is due by October 19, 2001. The Monterey spineflower and the robust spineflower are both similar in appearance, with individuals forming a low-growing mound that is grayish or reddish. Each plant can reach 20 inches or more in diameter. The plants, both members of the buckwheat family, are found on dry, sandy soils in coastal dunes and scrub, on grassland, maritime chaparral, and woodland habitats that are influenced by the mild, coastal climate. The Scotts Valley polygonum produces a single white flower and reaches a height of only two inches.
Native plants are important for their ecological, economic, and aesthetic values.
Plants play an important role in development of crops that resist disease, insects, and drought. At least 25 percent of prescription drugs contain ingredients derived from plant compounds, including medicine to treat cancer, heart disease, juvenile leukemia, and malaria, as well that used to assist organ transplants. Plants are also used to develop natural pesticides. To ensure a complete and comprehensive review of this proposal, the Service is asking the public to submit any additional information and data about the species, including economic or other impacts of these designations. Requests for public hearings on today's proposals of critical habitat for the four plants must be received by April 2, 2001.