Plants are restricted to vascular plants. In British Columbia 75 species of vertebrate animals and 241 vascular plant species are listed as either threatened, endangered or candidates for these designations. An additional 420 vertebrate animal and vascular plant species are classified as vulnerable. Vulnerable species are also considered at risk and include the White Glacier Lily, Painted Turtle and Grizzly Bear. Most of the increases to species at risk lists are a reflection of better tracking.
Plant associations are unique ecosystems categorized by their species composition.
They are home to many of the species at risk. British Columbia is Canada's most biologically diverse province, and threatened or endangered species are an ecologically important part of this biodiversity. British Columbia is committed to the National Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk. All provinces have agreed to protect species and their habitats and develop recovery plans for nationally designated threatened or endangered species. The National Accord emphasizes preventative measures, stewardship initiatives and the need for partnerships on both public and private lands.