Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Rule for 16 Plant Taxa From the Northern Channel Islands, California

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AD39

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Rule for

16 Plant Taxa From the Northern Channel Islands, California

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) proposes

endangered status pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as

amended (Act), for 16 plant taxa from the northern Channel Islands,

California: Arabis hoffmannii (Hoffmann's rock-cress), Arctostaphylos

confertiflora (Santa Rosa Island manzanita), Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis (island barberry), Castilleja mollis (soft-leaved

paintbrush), Dudleya

blochmaniae ssp. insularis (Santa Rosa Island dudleya), Dudleya sp.

nov. ``East Point'' (munchkin dudleya), Dudleya nesiotica (Santa Cruz

Island dudleya), Galium buxifolium (island bedstraw), Gilia tenuiflora

ssp. hoffmannii (Hoffmann's slender-flowered gilia), Helianthemum

greenei (island rush-rose), Heuchera maxima (island alumroot),

Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus (Santa Cruz Island

bushmallow), Malacothrix indecora (Santa Cruz Island malacothrix),

Malacothrix squalida (island malacothrix), Phacelia insularis ssp.

insularis (island phacelia), and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus (Santa

Cruz Island fringepod). The 16 plant taxa and their habitats have been

variously affected or are currently threatened by one or more of the

following: soil loss; habitat alteration by mammals alien to the

Channel Islands (pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, cattle, deer, elk,

bison); direct predation by these same alien mammals; habitat

alteration by native seabirds; habitat alteration due to vehicular

traffic; overcollection for scientific or recreational purposes;

competition with alien plant taxa; reduced genetic viability; depressed

reproductive vigor; and the chance of stochastic extinction resulting

from small numbers of individuals and populations.

r, elk,

bison); direct predation by these same alien mammals; habitat

alteration by native seabirds; habitat alteration due to vehicular

traffic; overcollection for scientific or recreational purposes;

competition with alien plant taxa; reduced genetic viability; depressed

reproductive vigor; and the chance of stochastic extinction resulting

from small numbers of individuals and populations.

DATES: Comments from all interested parties must be received by October

9, 1995. Public hearing requests must be received by September 25,

1995.

ADDRESSES: Comments and materials should be sent to the Field

Supervisor, Ventura Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2493

Portola Road, Suite B, Ventura, California 93003. Comments and

materials received will be available for public inspection, by

appointment, during normal business hours at the above address.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Carl Benz, Assistant Field Supervisor,

Ventura Field Office (see ADDRESSES section) (telephone number 805/644-

1766; facsimile 805/644-3958).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Arabis hoffmanii (Hoffmann's rock-cress), Arctostaphylos

confertiflora (Santa Rosa Island manzanita), Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis (island barberry), Castilleja mollis (soft-leaved

paintbrush), Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis (Santa Rosa Island

dudleya), Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' (munchkin dudleya), Dudleya

nesiotica (Santa Cruz Island dudleya), Galium buxifolium (island

bedstraw), Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii (Hoffmann's slender-

flowered gilia), Helianthemum greenei (island rush-rose), Heuchera

maxima (island alumroot), Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus

(Santa Cruz Island bushmallow), Malacothrix indecora (island

malacothrix), Malacothrix squalida (Santa Cruz Island malacothrix),

Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis (island phacelia), and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus (Santa Cruz Island fringepod) are California Channel

Island endemics

hemum greenei (island rush-rose), Heuchera

maxima (island alumroot), Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus

(Santa Cruz Island bushmallow), Malacothrix indecora (island

malacothrix), Malacothrix squalida (Santa Cruz Island malacothrix),

Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis (island phacelia), and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus (Santa Cruz Island fringepod) are California Channel

Island endemics. The only species in this group that is not exclusive

to the northern island group is the island rush-rose, with one

population known from Santa Catalina Island.

Located offshore and south of Santa Barbara County, the four

northern islands (from west to east: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa

Cruz, and Anacapa) are the highest points on a 130 kilometer (km) (80

mile (mi)) long seamount (Dibblee 1982). They are included within the

boundaries of the Channel Islands National Park (CINP). Anacapa Island

is the smallest of the four northern islands and is divided into east,

middle, and west islands totalling 2.9 square km (1.1 square mi); it is

the closest island to the mainland at a distance of 20 km (13 mi). East

and Middle Anacapa islands are flat-topped, wave-cut terraces largely

surrounded by steep cliffs. West Anacapa is the highest of the three,

reaching 283 meters (m) (930 feet (ft)) above sea level. Santa Cruz

Island is the largest of the California Channel Islands at 249 square

km (96 square mi) with the highest point being 753 m (2,470 ft) above

sea level and has a fault-controlled central valley that creates a dry

interior condition. Santa Rosa Island is 217 square km (84 square mi)

in area and 475 m (1,560 ft) at its highest point. San Miguel Island,

the westernmost of the northern group, is 37 square km (14 square mi)

in area and 253 m (830 ft) in height. Santa Catalina Island (south Los

Angeles County) is 194 square km (75 square mi) in area and its highest

elevation is 648 m (2,125 ft) above sea level (Power 1980).

Much of the northern Channel Islands are managed by Federal

agencies

(1,560 ft) at its highest point. San Miguel Island,

the westernmost of the northern group, is 37 square km (14 square mi)

in area and 253 m (830 ft) in height. Santa Catalina Island (south Los

Angeles County) is 194 square km (75 square mi) in area and its highest

elevation is 648 m (2,125 ft) above sea level (Power 1980).

Much of the northern Channel Islands are managed by Federal

agencies. San Miguel Island is under the jurisdiction of the U.S.

Department of the Navy (Navy), but the National Park Service (NPS) has

operational jurisdiction through a Memorandum of Agreement. Anacapa

Island is managed by the NPS with an inholding for the U.S. Coast Guard

lighthouse. The western 90 percent of Santa Cruz Island is owned and

managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). Almost all of the remaining 10

percent of the island is under the jurisdiction of the NPS. Except for

the City of Avalon, Santa Catalina Island is privately owned and

managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy.

Anacapa and Santa Barbara islands were set aside as a National

Monument in 1938. In 1980 the U.S. Congress abolished the National

Monument and incorporated those lands, waters and interests into

National Park status, adding Santa Cruz Island and Santa Rosa Island

(at that time privately owned) within the boundaries. The NPS

acquisition of Santa Rosa Island in 1986 was accomplished by outright

fee purchase from the Vail and Vickers Ranching Company. This

acquisition included the potential option for a 25-year continuation of

cattle ranching and a subleased commercial deer and elk hunting

operation, of which 18 years remain, as long as the Secretary of the

Interior determines that the property is being used for purposes

compatible with the administration of the park or with the preservation

of its resources.

In 1769 in San Diego, the establishment of the mission system

began. Attempts to remove the native Chumash Indian populations from

Santa Cruz Island to the mainland were completed by 1814 (Hobbs 1983)

by 1875, sheep stocking was around 50,000 head (Hobbs 1983). In

1890, perhaps as many as 100,000 sheep grazed on Santa Cruz Island

(Hochberg et al. 1980a). Pigs had been released on Santa Cruz Island by

1854 (Hobbs 1983). Conditions of overgrazing combined with drought

occurred in 1864, 1870-72, 1877, 1893-1904, 1923-24, 1935, 1946-48,

1964, (Dunkle 1950, Johnson 1980) and most recently 1986-

91 (Halvorson 1993). These episodes resulted in livestock losses to

starvation (Johnson 1980). Manipulation of the vegetation by over 150

years of intensive grazing and browsing has resulted in the replacement

of native plant communities with non-native grasslands (Minnich 1980,

Hobbs 1983).

Several non-native weedy plant species have invaded the disturbed

habitats of the islands. One of the most obvious problem species is

fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) on Santa Cruz Island. Fennel and other

aggressive non-native weed species displace native species and further

threaten the insular ecosystems (Smith 1989, Simberloff 1990). Research

methods and results to date for the control of fennel were the topics

of many presentations at the fourth Channel Islands symposium held in

March 1994 (Brenton and Klinger 1994, Dash and Gliessman 1994,

Gliessman 1994).

Some progress has been made toward eliminating alien animals from

the islands. TNC has eliminated the sheep from the western portion of

Santa Cruz Island; however, sheep from the eastern portion of the

island are reinvading westward. The NPS has recently removed all the

pigs from Santa Rosa Island. A program to control goats and pigs is

being implemented on western Santa Catalina Island. However, no action

has been taken to eliminate deer and elk from Santa Rosa Island, or

pigs and the remaining sheep from Santa Cruz Island, or bison from

Santa Catalina Island

om the eastern portion of the

island are reinvading westward. The NPS has recently removed all the

pigs from Santa Rosa Island. A program to control goats and pigs is

being implemented on western Santa Catalina Island. However, no action

has been taken to eliminate deer and elk from Santa Rosa Island, or

pigs and the remaining sheep from Santa Cruz Island, or bison from

Santa Catalina Island.

The main habitat types on the islands include coastal dune, coastal

bluff, grasslands, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak and ironwood

woodlands, riparian woodlands, and conifer forest; various subdivisions

of these types have been described by Dunkle (1950), Philbrick and

Haller (1977), Minnich (1980), and Clark et al. (1990). The floristics

of the islands are composed of elements that have a variety of origins.

Relictual species (wide ranging paleobotanic fossil records) such as

the endemic island ironwoods (Lyonothamnus floribundus) and species

with disjunct distributions with the mainland such as the Torrey pine

(Pinus torreyana) occur in canyons and slopes that provide higher

moisture levels than the surrounding areas. Unique insular endemics,

including all of the species in this proposed rule, have been discussed

by Raven (1967), Philbrick (1980), and Wallace (1985).

Coastal beach and associated dune habitats occur in the windiest

sandy locations on the three westernmost islands. These coastal

habitats appear to be relatively undisturbed compared to mainland sites

where development and recreation have largely eliminated them. Coastal

bluff habitat has provided a refugium from habitat elimination that

accompanies grazing by non-native animals (Minnich 1980, Halvorson et

al. 1992). The upland habitat was largely shrubland; many of the

representative species are now found only on bluff sites (D'Antonio et

al. 1992). The grasslands are largely composed of non-native annual

species and have greatly expanded at the expense of most other habitat

types (Hobbs 1983, Cole 1994)

at elimination that

accompanies grazing by non-native animals (Minnich 1980, Halvorson et

al. 1992). The upland habitat was largely shrubland; many of the

representative species are now found only on bluff sites (D'Antonio et

al. 1992). The grasslands are largely composed of non-native annual

species and have greatly expanded at the expense of most other habitat

types (Hobbs 1983, Cole 1994). Historic photographs reveal the loss of

woody vegetation from the islands during the last 100 years (Hobbs

1980, Minnich 1980). The coastal sage scrub habitat has increased in

importance on Anacapa and San Miguel Islands where grazing effects have

been removed (Johnson 1980). There, the controlling effects of grazing

on the elimination of shrubs and the artificial maintenance of

grasslands have been reversed. The coastal sage habitat is composed of

soft-leaved, soft-stemmed plants that are palatable to browsers and

grazers. The original coastal sage scrub habitat has been reduced by

overgrazing to the extent that it persists only in locations that are

inaccessible to grazing and browsing animals, as in patches of cactus

and on bluffs (Minnich 1980, Hobbs 1983).

The pre-grazing importance of cactus in the island communities will

never be known. Overgrazing results in the spread of cactus to areas

that have been denuded by livestock. Overgrazing on Santa Cruz Island

greatly facilitated the spread of cactus to the point that over 40

percent of the ``rangeland'' was rendered useless (Hochberg et al.

1980a). Cactus habitats on Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Islands have been

dramatically reduced to improve cattle operations by the introduction

of biological controls (Hochberg et al. 1980a).

The physical condition of the remnant chaparral habitats has been

modified by grazing and browsing such that shrubs form arborescent

(treelike) shapes

he ``rangeland'' was rendered useless (Hochberg et al.

1980a). Cactus habitats on Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Islands have been

dramatically reduced to improve cattle operations by the introduction

of biological controls (Hochberg et al. 1980a).

The physical condition of the remnant chaparral habitats has been

modified by grazing and browsing such that shrubs form arborescent

(treelike) shapes. The continued browsing by deer and elk on Santa Rosa

Island has created an open ``skeleton'' community reticulated by game

trails that provide access to nearly 100 percent of the habitat

(Hochberg et al. 1980a; Tim Thomas, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service

(USFWS), pers. obs., 1993). Historic reports of the conditions on the

islands indicate that the brushlands were impenetrable (Hochberg et al.

1980a). Island woodlands are dominated by unique endemic species and

heavily affected by grazing, browsing, and rooting animals seeking

summer shelter and food (Clark et al. 1990, Halvorson 1993). The

riparian habitats are heavily modified physically and structurally, and

in some areas they have been completely eliminated (Hochberg et al.

1980a, Minnich 1980). Normally, a canyon with year-round water will

have well-developed riparian vegetation that includes willows (Salix

spp.), sycamores (Platanus racemosa), cottonwoods (Populus spp.) and

oaks (Quercus spp.). This vegetation would typically support a rich

diversity of organisms, especially neo-tropical migratory bird species

(Paul Collins, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, pers. comm.,

1994). The riparian habitat is one of the most significant on the

islands. Years of livestock overutilization have considerably reduced

this resource-rich habitat. The pine forests that are protected from

grazing have well-developed foliar cover and pine reproduction (Hobbs

1978). In contrast, Clark et al. (1990) report that pine forests that

are subjected to grazing lack the protective nutrient layer of ground

litter and exhibit no reproduction

ant on the

islands. Years of livestock overutilization have considerably reduced

this resource-rich habitat. The pine forests that are protected from

grazing have well-developed foliar cover and pine reproduction (Hobbs

1978). In contrast, Clark et al. (1990) report that pine forests that

are subjected to grazing lack the protective nutrient layer of ground

litter and exhibit no reproduction. Pigs, cattle, deer, goats, sheep,

and bison continue to threaten and further degrade whole ecosystems on

the islands (Sauer 1988, Halvorson 1993).

Islands, with their many endemic species of plants and animals,

have long attracted the attention of biologists and are among the

world's most fragile and unique ecosystems. Fifty-four island endemic

plant species are known from the northern Channel Islands; 15 species

are single island endemics (Halvorson et al. 1987). Some of the most

striking examples of extinction have occurred from islands around the

world; from the Channel Islands, notable extinctions include the Santa

Barbara Island song sparrow (Melospiza melodia cooperi) and the Santa

Cruz Island monkeyflower (Mimulus brandegei). Twelve plant species have

been extirpated from various islands within the northern island group:

three from Santa Cruz (Malacothrix incana, Mimulus brandegei, and

Sibaria filifolia), three from Santa Rosa (Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis, and Helianthemum

greenei), and six from San Miguel (Grindelia latifolia, Ceanothus

megacarpus ssp. insularis, Rhamnus pirifolia, Haplopappus ericoides,

Castilleja mollis, and Dithyrea maritima) (Philbrick 1980, Halvorson et

al. 1987, Clark et al. 1990).

Discussion of the Taxa Included in This Proposal

Table 1 summarizes the growth habit and population distribution for

the 16 taxa in this proposal.

anthemum

greenei), and six from San Miguel (Grindelia latifolia, Ceanothus

megacarpus ssp. insularis, Rhamnus pirifolia, Haplopappus ericoides,

Castilleja mollis, and Dithyrea maritima) (Philbrick 1980, Halvorson et

al. 1987, Clark et al. 1990).

Discussion of the Taxa Included in This Proposal

Table 1 summarizes the growth habit and population distribution for

the 16 taxa in this proposal.

Table 1.--Growth Habit, Estimated Populations Within the Last Five Years, and Insular Distribution of Sixteen

Proposed Endangered Plant Taxa From the Northern Channel Islands, California; mA=middle Anacapa, wA=west

Anacapa, CR=Santa Cruz, RO=Santa Rosa, MI=San Miguel, CA=Santa Catalina, P( )=Historic Distribution But

Believed Extirpated From This Location

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Scientific name Growth habit Est. pops. Distribution

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Arabis hoffmanii.................. Perennial herb............. 3........................ (RO), CR, (wA)

Arctostaphylos confertifolia...... Shrub...................... Less than 10............. RO

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis... Shrub/Vine................. 5........................ (RO), CR, wA

Castilleja mollis................. Perennial.................. 2........................ (MI), RO

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis Succulent.................. 1........................ RO

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point''... Succulent.................. 1........................ RO

Dudleya nesiotica................. Succulent.................. 1........................ CR

Galium buxifolium................. Sub-shrub.................. 10....................... MI, CR

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii.. Annual..................... 1........................ RO

Helanthemum greenei............... Sub-shrub.................. 7.......................

1........................ RO

Dudleya nesiotica................. Succulent.................. 1........................ CR

Galium buxifolium................. Sub-shrub.................. 10....................... MI, CR

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii.. Annual..................... 1........................ RO

Helanthemum greenei............... Sub-shrub.................. 7........................ (RO), CR, CA

Heuchera maxima................... Perennial.................. 27....................... RO, CR, wA

Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. Shrub...................... 2........................ CR

nesioticus.

Malacothrix indecora.............. Annual..................... 1........................ (MI), CR

Malacothrix squalida.............. Annual..................... 3........................ CR, mA

Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis. Annual..................... 5........................ MI, (RO)

Thysanocarpus conchuliferus....... Annual..................... 8........................ CR

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Hoffmann's rock-cress (Arabis hoffmannii) was first described by

Philip Alexander Munz as Arabis maxima var. hoffmannii in 1935 based on

specimens collected by Ralph Hoffmann at the ``sea cliffs east of

Dick's Harbor,'' now known as Platts Harbor, on Santa Cruz Island in

1932 (Rollins 1936). However, the first collection of this rock-cress

was made by T.S. Brandegee in 1888 from an unspecified location on

Santa Cruz Island. In 1936, Reed Clark Rollins elevated the taxon to

species status by publishing the name Arabis hoffmannii. This

nomenclature is upheld in the most recent treatment for the genus

(Rollins 1993).

Arabis hoffmannii is a slender herbaceous perennial in the mustard

(Brassicaceae) family. The one to several stems reach 0.6 m (2.0 ft)

high, and have slightly toothed basal leaves

Santa Cruz Island. In 1936, Reed Clark Rollins elevated the taxon to

species status by publishing the name Arabis hoffmannii. This

nomenclature is upheld in the most recent treatment for the genus

(Rollins 1993).

Arabis hoffmannii is a slender herbaceous perennial in the mustard

(Brassicaceae) family. The one to several stems reach 0.6 m (2.0 ft)

high, and have slightly toothed basal leaves. The white flowers,

comprised of four petals 1 centimeter (cm) (0.4 inch (in)) long, are

found at the tips of the stems. The slightly curved fruits are borne on

long stalks and enclose two rows of seeds in each of two chambers. The

only other rock-cress that occurs on the islands, Arabis glabra var.

glabra, is a taller plant with cream colored flowers, and occurs as an

alien in open meadows and slopes.

Since Brandegee's collection was made in 1888, very few collections

of Arabis hoffmannii have been made. On Santa Cruz Island, Reid Moran

made a collection from the ``Central Valley'' in 1950, and Jim

McPherson collected the plant near Centinela Grade, possibly the same

location, in 1967 (Steve Junak, pers. comm. 1993). It was not until

1985 that Steve Junak relocated a population at this location (Schuyler

1986). For many decades, Hoffmann's original collection site, near

Platts Harbor on Santa Cruz Island, was in ``an area of intense feral

animal (sheep) disturbance,'' and no plants could be found (Hochberg et

al. 1980a). However, surveys conducted by TNC in 1985 were successful

in relocating two small populations, one comprising three individual

plants, near Platts Harbor (Schuyler 1986).

According to Reid Moran's field notes, he collected Arabis

hoffmannii from Anacapa Island in 1941 ``on the slopes above Frenchy's

Cove'' (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1993). However, no specimens from this

collection have been found in herbaria with known collections of island

species, and recent surveys by Junak have failed to relocate the plant

on Anacapa Island (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1993)

986).

According to Reid Moran's field notes, he collected Arabis

hoffmannii from Anacapa Island in 1941 ``on the slopes above Frenchy's

Cove'' (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1993). However, no specimens from this

collection have been found in herbaria with known collections of island

species, and recent surveys by Junak have failed to relocate the plant

on Anacapa Island (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1993). Ralph Hoffmann reported

the plant from ``the bank above Water Canyon'' on Santa Rosa Island in

1930, but numerous recent surveys have failed to locate any plants on

that island (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1993).

Arabis hoffmannii is currently known from three small populations

that collectively cover less than 0.4 hectare (1 acre) on Santa Cruz

Island. The two populations near Platts Harbor are located on rocky

volcanic cliffs along a north-facing canyon on lands owned by TNC.

Because of their inaccessibility, and the loose structure of the

volcanic rock, the two cliff populations have not been thoroughly

surveyed. Only a few dozen plants have been directly observed, but the

cliffs may support additional individuals. The population near

Centinela Grade is growing on Santa Cruz Island volcanics and is

associated with giant coreopsis (Coreopsis gigantea), Santa Cruz Island

buckwheat (Eriogonum arborescens), and coastal prickly pear (Opuntia

littoralis), on lands owned and managed by TNC. When Junak relocated

this population, approximately 30 individuals were seen. TNC has

monitored this population since 1990, with fewer than 30 plants

observed each year (Klinger 1994a). The major threats to Arabis

hoffmannii are loss of soil, habitat degradation, and predation

resulting from feral pig rooting. Because of the small numbers of

populations and individuals, the taxon is also vulnerable to stochastic

(random) extinction by such events as storms, drought, landslide, or

fire. Small numbers of isolated populations and individuals also make

the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor

is

hoffmannii are loss of soil, habitat degradation, and predation

resulting from feral pig rooting. Because of the small numbers of

populations and individuals, the taxon is also vulnerable to stochastic

(random) extinction by such events as storms, drought, landslide, or

fire. Small numbers of isolated populations and individuals also make

the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Santa Rosa Island manzanita (Arctostaphylos confertiflora) was

first described by Alice Eastwood as Arctostaphylos confertiflora in

1934 from a collection made by Hoffmann

four years earlier ``in a sheltered dell south of Black Mountain'' on

Santa Rosa Island (Eastwood 1934). Abrams (1951) synonymized the taxon

with Arctostaphylos subcordata; eight years later, Munz published the

new combination Arctostaphylos subcordata var. confertiflora (Munz and

Keck 1973). However, in treatments of the genus, including the most

recent, Wells (1968, 1993) has continued to uphold the original

taxonomy.

Arctostaphylos confertiflora is a perennial shrub in the heath

(Ericaceae) family that grows 0.1 to 2.0 m (4 in to 6.5 ft) high (Wells

1993). The plant has smooth, dark red-purple bark, densely hairy

branchlets, bracts, and pedicels, and light green, round-ovate leaves.

The flowers are borne in numerous dense panicles that mature into

flattened reddish-brown fruits (McMinn 1951). The only other manzanita

that occurs on Santa Rosa Island, Arctostaphylos tomentosa, forms a

fire-resistant burl at the base of the stems; Arctostaphylos

confertiflora is not burl-forming and is considered an obligate seeder,

requiring fire for regeneration. It occurs in prostrate and upright

forms, the former most likely due to climatic and herbivorous

influences (McMinn 1951).

Arctostaphylos confertiflora is known only from two areas on Santa

Rosa Island

phylos tomentosa, forms a

fire-resistant burl at the base of the stems; Arctostaphylos

confertiflora is not burl-forming and is considered an obligate seeder,

requiring fire for regeneration. It occurs in prostrate and upright

forms, the former most likely due to climatic and herbivorous

influences (McMinn 1951).

Arctostaphylos confertiflora is known only from two areas on Santa

Rosa Island. In the northeast portion of the island near, and east of,

Black Mountain, individual plants have been observed at scattered sites

from upper Lobos Canyon east to the Torrey pine groves along Becher's

Bay, a distance of about 5 km (3 mi). The plant occurs on sedimentary

substrates, which consist of Monterey shales and soft volcanoclastic

sediments derived from San Miguel volcanics (Weaver et al. 1969). Near

the southern tip of the island, a few individuals are scattered on the

slopes above South Point on sandstone outcrops. The taxon occurs as a

component of mixed chaparral, mixed woodland, Torrey pine woodland, and

island pine woodland communities. Junak estimated that total habitat

for the plant comprises only a few acres (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1994);

Clark et al. (1990) noted that it occurs in very low numbers. The major

threats to Arctostaphylos confertiflora are soil loss, habitat

alteration and predation caused by cattle grazing and elk and deer

browsing, which have resulted in reproductive failure. Because of the

small numbers of isolated populations and individuals, the taxon is

also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms,

drought, or fire. Small numbers of populations and individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Island barberry (Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis) was first

described by Munz and Roos (1950) as Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis

based on a specimen collected by Carl B

ons and individuals, the taxon is

also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms,

drought, or fire. Small numbers of populations and individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Island barberry (Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis) was first

described by Munz and Roos (1950) as Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis

based on a specimen collected by Carl B. Wolf in 1932 ``west of summit

of Buena Vista Grade (also known as Centinela Grade), interior of Santa

Cruz Island.'' In 1981, James Roof realigned this taxon with the genus

Mahonia because the leaves are compound, in contrast with the simple

leaves of Berberis (Roof 1981). However, Moran (1982) made the case

that this one character was insufficient to defend Mahonia as a

distinct natural group; subsequent treatments have included all North

American taxa previously referred to Mahonia as Berberis. Therefore,

this taxon has been referred to as Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis by

Munz (1974), Smith (1976), and Williams (1993).

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis is a perennial shrub in the

barberry family (Berberidaceae). The plant has spreading stems that

reach 2 to 8 m (5 to 25 ft) high, with large leaves divided into 5 to 9

glossy green leaflets. Clusters of yellow flowers at the branch tips

develop into blue berries covered with a white bloom (waxy coating).

Because new shoots can sprout from underground rhizomes, many stems may

actually represent one genetic clone (Hochberg et al. 1980b, California

Native Plant Society (CNPS) 1984, Williams 1993).

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis is found in moist, shaded canyons

on Santa Cruz and West Anacapa Island. Hoffmann found several

individuals ``in Elder canyon that runs from west into Canada de la

Casa'' on Santa Rosa Island in 1930 (California Natural Diversity Data

Base (CNDDB) 1993); however, in spite of recent surveys, no plants have

been found on the island since that time. Dunkle collected Berberis

pinnata ssp

sularis is found in moist, shaded canyons

on Santa Cruz and West Anacapa Island. Hoffmann found several

individuals ``in Elder canyon that runs from west into Canada de la

Casa'' on Santa Rosa Island in 1930 (California Natural Diversity Data

Base (CNDDB) 1993); however, in spite of recent surveys, no plants have

been found on the island since that time. Dunkle collected Berberis

pinnata ssp. insularis on West Anacapa Island in 1940; the plant was

not found there again until 1980. One clone is found in Summit Canyon

associated with chaparral species, including poison oak (Toxicodendron

diversilobum), monkeyflower (Diplaucus parviflorus), coyote bush

(Baccharis sp.), goldenbush (Haplopappus detonsus), island alum-root

(Heuchera maxima) and wild cucumber (Marah macrocarpus). Four

populations occur on Santa Cruz Island. One population on the north

slope of Diablo Peak comprises 24 large ``stems'' and 75 small

``stems'' (Klinger 1994c); this number of stems may represent one or

several clonal individuals. In 1979, the two populations near Campo

Raton were estimated to be less than 10 individuals; in 1985, only one

plant was seen (CNDDB 1994). The size of the population at Hazard's

Canyon has not been determined due to inaccessibility.

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis is threatened by soil loss and

habitat alteration caused by feral pig rooting. Because of the small

numbers of populations and individuals, the taxon is also vulnerable to

stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire. Small

numbers of isolated populations and individuals also make the taxon

vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Soft-leaved paintbrush (Castilleja mollis) was first described by

Francis W. Pennell as Castilleja mollis in 1947, based on material

collected on Santa Rosa Island in 1939 (Ingram 1990, Heckard and Ingram

1991). Munz and Keck (1973) and Hoover (1970) included plants of

coastal sand dunes of San Luis Obispo County in the description of this

taxon

xon

vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Soft-leaved paintbrush (Castilleja mollis) was first described by

Francis W. Pennell as Castilleja mollis in 1947, based on material

collected on Santa Rosa Island in 1939 (Ingram 1990, Heckard and Ingram

1991). Munz and Keck (1973) and Hoover (1970) included plants of

coastal sand dunes of San Luis Obispo County in the description of this

taxon. However, Ingram (1990) has concluded that the taxon is endemic

to Santa Rosa Island.

Castilleja mollis is a presumably partially parasitic perennial

herb in the figwort (Scrophulariaceae) family. The plant has semi-

prostrate branches that reach 40 cm (16 in) in length, with bracts and

upper leaves that are grayish, fleshy, broad and rounded and crowded at

the apex, and the bract and calyx are yellow to yellowish green above

(Heckard and Ingram 1991). Ingram's studies outlined a number of

morphological differences between Castilleja mollis and the similar

Castilleja affinis, including the indument (covering) of distinctive

branched hairs and rounded stem leaves in the former taxon.

Two collections of Castilleja mollis were also made by F.H. Elmore

from Point Bennett on San Miguel Island in 1938 (Heckard and Ingram

1991); despite recent searches, the taxon has not been seen on the

island since then (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1994). Castilleja mollis is

known from two areas on Santa Rosa Island: Carrington Point in the

northeast corner of the island, and west of Jaw Gulch and Orr's Camp

(this location also referred to as Pocket Field) along the north shore

of the island. At Carrington Point, the plant is associated with

stabilized dune scrub vegetation that is dominated by goldenbush

(Isocoma venetus var. sedoides), lupine (Lupinus albifrons), and

Pacific ryegrass (Leymus pacificus). At the Pocket Field location, the

paintbrush is associated with the non-native iceplant (Carpobrotus spp.

and Mesembryanthemum spp.), native milkvetch (Astragalus miguelensis),

and alien grasses.

, the plant is associated with

stabilized dune scrub vegetation that is dominated by goldenbush

(Isocoma venetus var. sedoides), lupine (Lupinus albifrons), and

Pacific ryegrass (Leymus pacificus). At the Pocket Field location, the

paintbrush is associated with the non-native iceplant (Carpobrotus spp.

and Mesembryanthemum spp.), native milkvetch (Astragalus miguelensis),

and alien grasses.

In 1993, the Jaw Gulch population was estimated to comprise up to

1,000 individuals covering an area of less than 2 hectares (5 acres)

(C. Rutherford and T. Thomas, USFWS, pers. obs. 1993). During Ingram's

field studies in 1990, the Carrington Point population consisted of

only 20 individuals (Ingram 1990); more favorable climatic conditions

in the past few years may have resulted in higher numbers of plants,

perhaps as many as several hundred. The Jaw Gulch population was also

used as a bedding area for deer during the fall of 1993 (Dan Richards,

CINP, pers. comm. 1994). Threats to Castilleja mollis are soil loss,

habitat alteration and predation caused by cattle grazing, deer and elk

browsing, deer bedding, and competition with alien plant taxa. Because

of the small numbers of isolated populations and individuals, the taxon

is also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms,

drought, or fire. Small numbers of populations and individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Santa Rosa Island dudleya (Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis) was

first described as Hasseanthus blochmaniae ssp. insularis by Reid Moran

(1950a) based on a collection made at ``Old Ranch Point'' on Santa Rosa

Island in 1950. Moran (1953) combined the genus Hasseanthus as a

subgenus of Dudleya; Hasseanthus had previously been segregated from

Dudleya on the basis of stem characteristics and the presence of vernal

(withering) leaves. In so doing, he published the new combination

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis (Moran 1953)

an

(1950a) based on a collection made at ``Old Ranch Point'' on Santa Rosa

Island in 1950. Moran (1953) combined the genus Hasseanthus as a

subgenus of Dudleya; Hasseanthus had previously been segregated from

Dudleya on the basis of stem characteristics and the presence of vernal

(withering) leaves. In so doing, he published the new combination

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis (Moran 1953). A recent attempt was

made by Thompson (1993) to resegregate Hasseanthus from Dudleya;

however, because rules of nomenclature were not followed and the

morphological differences between these two groups do not appear to

merit recognition at the genus level, the taxon will be recognized in

this proposed rule under the name Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis.

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis is a small succulent perennial

in the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae). The plant has a corm-like root

structure, and 15 to 30 oblanceolate leaves in a basal rosette, from

which several flowering stems 3 to 7 cm (1.2 to 2.8 in) long arise. The

white, five-petaled flowers and the resulting fruits are fused at the

base and wide-spreading distally. This subspecies is distinguished from

two other mainland subspecies of Dudleya blochmaniae on the basis of

the more numerous rosette leaves, shorter floral stems, more pronounced

glaucousness of young floral stems and their leaves, and the size and

shape of the lower bracts (Moran 1950a, Bartel 1993).

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis is only known from the type

locality near Old Ranch Point, also known as Marsh Point, on the east

end of the island. The taxon occupies an area of less than 1 hectare (2

acres) of an ancient marine terrace with a cobbly surface, and

associated with owl's clover (Castilleja exserta), goldfields

(Lasthenia californica), and alien annual grasses. The number of

individuals is estimated to be 2,000 (Rutherford and Thomas, pers. obs.

1993). Threats to Dudleya blochmaniae ssp

Point, on the east

end of the island. The taxon occupies an area of less than 1 hectare (2

acres) of an ancient marine terrace with a cobbly surface, and

associated with owl's clover (Castilleja exserta), goldfields

(Lasthenia californica), and alien annual grasses. The number of

individuals is estimated to be 2,000 (Rutherford and Thomas, pers. obs.

1993). Threats to Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis are soil loss;

habitat alteration caused by cattle, elk, and deer trampling; vehicle

access; and collecting. Because this taxon is restricted to one

population, the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by

such events as storms, drought, or fire. The single population and

restricted number of individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to

reduced reproductive vigor.

Munchkin dudleya (Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' (S. McCabe, pers.

comm. 1994)) was first collected by Reid Moran in 1950. In his

dissertation on the genus Dudleya, he included it in the description of

Dudleya greenei, but remarked upon how it differed, and described it as

``forma nana.'' Subsequent floras treated the form in synonymy with

Dudleya greenei (Munz and Keck 1973, Smith 1976). In 1993, Paul H.

Thomson illegitimately published the name Dudleya nana, based on the

description of forma nana in Moran's dissertation. Stephen McCabe has

submitted an article describing a new species of Dudleya to the journal

Madrono (S. McCabe, pers. comm. 1994).

Like Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis described above, this plant

is a small succulent perennial in the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae).

The plant has a short caudex-like stem, and small, gray, ovate to

oblanceolate leaves in a cluster of up to 20 basal rosettes, from which

several flowering stems 2.5 to 7 cm (1 to 2.75 in) long arise. The pale

yellow, five-petaled flowers are fused at the base and spread only at

the tips.

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' is known only from one population

comprising three colonies near East Point on Santa Rosa Island

udex-like stem, and small, gray, ovate to

oblanceolate leaves in a cluster of up to 20 basal rosettes, from which

several flowering stems 2.5 to 7 cm (1 to 2.75 in) long arise. The pale

yellow, five-petaled flowers are fused at the base and spread only at

the tips.

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' is known only from one population

comprising three colonies near East Point on Santa Rosa Island. The

total number of individuals in the three colonies has been estimated to

be 3,200 (S. McCabe, pers. comm. 1994). The colonies occur on a low

windswept ridge with a cobbly soil surface, which is bereft of any

other vegetation save scattered alien annual grasses. Several hundred

plants were observed uprooted with roots exposed during the spring of

1993, most likely a result of cattle grazing and trampling (S. Chaney,

CINP, pers. comm. 1993). Threats to Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' are

soil loss, habitat alteration, and predation caused by cattle and deer

trampling and grazing. Because it is restricted to one population, the

taxon is vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms,

drought, or fire. The single population and limited number of

individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive

vigor.

Santa Cruz Island dudleya (Dudleya nesiotica) was first described

by Reid Moran (1950b) as Hasseanthus nesioticus based on a specimen

collected from ``flat area near edge of sea bluff, Fraser Point,'' on

the west end of Santa Cruz Island in 1950. Three years later, Moran

re. The single population and limited number of

individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive

vigor.

Santa Cruz Island dudleya (Dudleya nesiotica) was first described

by Reid Moran (1950b) as Hasseanthus nesioticus based on a specimen

collected from ``flat area near edge of sea bluff, Fraser Point,'' on

the west end of Santa Cruz Island in 1950. Three years later, Moran

(1953) transferred the species to the genus Dudleya, thereby forming

the new combination Dudleya nesiotica.

Like the two previously described dudleyas, Dudleya nesiotica is a

succulent perennial in the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae). The plant

has a corm-like stem with 8 to 16 oblanceolate leaves in a basal

rosette from which several flowering stems 3 to 10 cm (1.2 to 4.0 in)

tall arise. The five white-petaled flowers and resulting fruits are

erect to ascending.

Dudleya nesiotica is known only from one population comprising two

colonies within 1.6 km (1 mi) of the type locality at Fraser Point on

the west end of Santa Cruz Island. Approximately 1,000 plants occupy

less than 10 acres of habitat. The colonies are situated on the lowest

marine terrace in association with iceplant (Mesembryanthemum

crystallinum and M. nodiflorum), alkali heath (Frankenia salina),

goldfields, and pickleweed (Salicornia virginica). Threats to Dudleya

nesiotica are soil loss, habitat alteration, and predation caused by

pig rooting. Like many dudleyas, Dudleya nesiotica is also threatened

by collecting for botanical or horticultural use (Moran 1979). Because

the taxon is restricted to only one population, it is also vulnerable

to stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire.

The single population and limited number of individuals also make the

taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Island bedstraw (Galium buxifolium) was first described by E.L.

Greene as Galium buxifolium in 1886 based on specimens collected on

Santa Cruz Island (Ferris 1960)

only one population, it is also vulnerable

to stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire.

The single population and limited number of individuals also make the

taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Island bedstraw (Galium buxifolium) was first described by E.L.

Greene as Galium buxifolium in 1886 based on specimens collected on

Santa Cruz Island (Ferris 1960). In 1958, Lauramay Dempster (1958)

described the taxon as a variety of Galium catalinense. Ferris

(1960) suggested that the taxon was subspecifically distinct, but still

synonymized the taxon with Galium catalinense. Thirteen years later,

Dempster (1973) reestablished the taxon as a separate species based on

differences in the nutlet hairs between it and Galium catalinense.

Galium buxifolium is a small, stout woody shrub in the bedstraw

(Rubiaceae) family. The plant grows to 12 decimeters (dm) (4 ft) in

height, and has swollen nodes bearing numerous leafy branches. The

leaves are larger than those of most other Galium taxa, and have

conspicuous lateral veins with stout hairs on the lower surface

(Dempster 1973). The relatively broad leaves and the tiny upward-curved

hairs that cover the fruits are unique characteristics that distinguish

it from the six other species of Galium that occur on the islands

(Hochberg et al. 1980b).

A putative collection of Galium buxifolium was made from the

``Torrey Pine grove, Santa Rosa Island,'' in 1941 by Reid Moran;

apparently this was a misidentified collection of Galium nuttallii

(York, in litt. 1987). Therefore no known collections of this taxon are

known from Santa Rosa Island. Galium buxifolium is currently known from

Santa Cruz and San Miguel Islands where it occurs on north-facing sea

cliffs. Eight populations occur on TNC lands on Santa Cruz Island. In

1980, Hochberg et al. (1980b) noted that 2 of these populations

comprised fewer than 50 individuals each, and the remaining populations

comprised less than 6 individuals each

xon are

known from Santa Rosa Island. Galium buxifolium is currently known from

Santa Cruz and San Miguel Islands where it occurs on north-facing sea

cliffs. Eight populations occur on TNC lands on Santa Cruz Island. In

1980, Hochberg et al. (1980b) noted that 2 of these populations

comprised fewer than 50 individuals each, and the remaining populations

comprised less than 6 individuals each. Two populations were located on

San Miguel Island in 1993, 1 comprising about 200 individuals, and 1

comprising fewer than 10. Five other historical collections have been

made from the island, but none have been seen for almost 30 years.

The plant occurs on ``bluffs and rocky slopes'' (Dempster 1973) in

coastal sage scrub and island pine forest. Threats to Galium buxifolium

are soil loss, habitat alteration, and predation caused by feral pig

rooting and sheep grazing. Because of the small numbers of isolated

populations and individuals, the taxon is also vulnerable to stochastic

extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire. Small numbers of

populations and individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to reduced

reproductive vigor.

Hoffmann's slender-flowered gilia (Gilia tenuiflora var.

hoffmannii) was first described as Gilia hoffmannii by Alice Eastwood

in 1940 based on collections made by Ralph Hoffmann ``in sandy soil at

East Point'' on Santa Rosa Island ten years earlier (Eastwood 1940).

Eastwood remarked that, although the taxon is related to Gilia

tenuiflora, no variation of the latter included the leafy stems and

terminal congested inflorescence of Gilia hoffmannii (Eastwood 1940).

Nevertheless, Jepson (1943) included the taxon in the description of

Gilia tenuiflora var. tenuiflora in his flora of California, as did

Abrams (1951) in his flora of the Pacific states. In 1959, Munz renamed

the varieties of tenuiflora as subspecies, including ssp. hoffmannii

(Munz and Keck 1973). This nomenclature has been upheld in the latest

treatment of the genus (Day 1993)

twood 1940).

Nevertheless, Jepson (1943) included the taxon in the description of

Gilia tenuiflora var. tenuiflora in his flora of California, as did

Abrams (1951) in his flora of the Pacific states. In 1959, Munz renamed

the varieties of tenuiflora as subspecies, including ssp. hoffmannii

(Munz and Keck 1973). This nomenclature has been upheld in the latest

treatment of the genus (Day 1993). Of the four subspecies of Gilia

tenuiflora, the subspecies hoffmannii is the only one that occurs in

southern California. Two other Gilia species occur on Santa Rosa

Island; Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii is distinguished from them by

the presence of arachnoid woolly pubescence at the base of the stem.

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii is a small, erect annual herb in

the phlox (Polemoniaceae) family. The central stem grows 6 to 12 cm

(2.4 to 4.7 in) tall, arising from a rosette of densely hairy, strap-

shaped, short-lobed leaves. The flowers are purplish and funnel-shaped

below, widening to five pinkish corolla lobes.

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii has only been collected from two

locations on Santa Rosa Island. A collection was made by Reid Moran

from the ``arroyo between Ranch and Carrington Point'' in 1941

(Rutherford and Thomas 1994); however, numerous surveys conducted in

recent years have failed to relocate the plant at this location. This

location most likely falls within the parcel of property, adjacent to

the ranchhouse, that has been heavily disturbed by cattle ranching

operations. The only currently extant population occurs at the type

locality near East Point on Santa Rosa Island. Here, it occurs as a

component of dune scrub vegetation with sand verbena (Abronia

maritima), silver beach-weed (Ambrosia chamissonis), saltgrass

(Distichlis spicata), miniature lupine (Lupinus bicolor), plantain

(Plantago erecta), and sand-dune bluegrass (Poa douglasii) (T. Thomas,

in litt. 1993)

y currently extant population occurs at the type

locality near East Point on Santa Rosa Island. Here, it occurs as a

component of dune scrub vegetation with sand verbena (Abronia

maritima), silver beach-weed (Ambrosia chamissonis), saltgrass

(Distichlis spicata), miniature lupine (Lupinus bicolor), plantain

(Plantago erecta), and sand-dune bluegrass (Poa douglasii) (T. Thomas,

in litt. 1993). The population consists of several hundred individuals

and occupies an area of not more than 0.8 hectares (2 acres). Threats

to Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii are soil loss, habitat alteration

and predation caused by cattle grazing, and elk and deer browsing. A

sandy service road used by NPS and ranchers bisects the population.

Because the taxon is restricted to one population, it is also

vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought,

or fire. The single population and limited number of individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Island rush-rose (Helianthemum greenei) was first described by

Robinson as Helianthemum greenei in 1895 (Abrams 1951). The type

locality is described as ``a dry summit near the central part of the

island of Santa Cruz'' (Abrams 1951). This nomenclature has been upheld

in the most recent treatment for the genus (McClintock 1993).

Helianthemum greenei is a small shrub in the rock-rose (Cistaceae)

family. The plant grows to 0.5 m (18 in) tall and has alternate leaves

covered with star-shaped hairs. The reddish, glandular stalks support

yellow-petalled flowers to 2.5 cm (1 in) wide. The fruit is a pointed

capsule 0.6 cm (0.25 in) long. A more abundant species found on the

islands, Helianthemum scoparium, is similar in appearance, but is not

glandular-hairy and has greenish stalks and smaller fruits (Hochberg

1980b).

McMinn (1951) and later Thorne (1967) report seeing Helianthemum

greenei on San Miguel Island, but there are no collections in island

herbaria (Hochberg et al. 1980b, Wallace n.d.)

apsule 0.6 cm (0.25 in) long. A more abundant species found on the

islands, Helianthemum scoparium, is similar in appearance, but is not

glandular-hairy and has greenish stalks and smaller fruits (Hochberg

1980b).

McMinn (1951) and later Thorne (1967) report seeing Helianthemum

greenei on San Miguel Island, but there are no collections in island

herbaria (Hochberg et al. 1980b, Wallace n.d.). Two collections of the

plant were made from Santa Rosa Island by Epling and Erickson and Dunn

in the 1930's (Wallace 1985); however, no collections on Santa Rosa

Island have been made since that time, despite recent surveys.

Helianthemum greenei was reported from the northeast side of Black Jack

Mountain on Santa Catalina Island by Thorne (1967) in 1966; no

collections have been made since then, but a population of three

individuals was recently reported from this location (Janet Takara,

Catalina Island Conservancy, pers. comm. 1994). Habitat for the plant

on Santa Catalina Island is being grazed by goats, mule deer, and

bison, and is being rooted by pigs.

In addition to the one population on Santa Catalina Island,

Helianthemum greenei is currently known from ten populations on Santa

Cruz Island. The taxon is found in open, exposed areas in chaparral,

coastal sage scrub, and island pine forest. In 1980, prior to sheep

removal from TNC lands on Santa Cruz Island, Hochberg et al. (1980b)

found that, of ten populations, only two comprised several dozen

individuals, and six others comprised less than six individuals.

Hochberg et al. (1980b) indicated that the plant is eliminated by

intense feral animal disturbance, and noted that the population

recorded by Abrams and Wiggins in 1930 at Pelican

prior to sheep

removal from TNC lands on Santa Cruz Island, Hochberg et al. (1980b)

found that, of ten populations, only two comprised several dozen

individuals, and six others comprised less than six individuals.

Hochberg et al. (1980b) indicated that the plant is eliminated by

intense feral animal disturbance, and noted that the population

recorded by Abrams and Wiggins in 1930 at Pelican

Bay has not been relocated. The major threats to Helianthemum greenei

are soil loss, altered fire frequencies and intensities, rooting by

feral pigs, sheep grazing, and competition with other shrubs that have

increased in cover due to a release in grazing pressure. Because of the

small numbers of isolated populations and individuals, the taxon is

also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms,

drought, or fire.

Island alumroot (Heuchera maxima) was first described by E.L.

Greene (1886a) as Heuchera maxima based on collections from the

``northward slope of Santa Cruz Island.'' This nomenclature has been

upheld in the most recent treatment of the genus (Elvander 1993).

Heuchera maxima is a perennial herb in the saxifrage (Saxifragaceae)

family. The round basal leaves are up to 7 cm (2.8 in) broad on long

petioles up to 25 cm (10 in) in length. The flowering stalks are up to

6.1 dm (2 ft) long and scattered with small white-petaled flowers

(Hochberg 1980b). No other Heuchera species occurs on the islands;

however, young plants of Heuchera maxima could resemble species of

Jepsonia, Lithophragma, or Saxifraga that occurs on the islands.

Heuchera maxima can be distinguished from these other taxa by its

larger size at maturity, and flowers with ten stamens rather than five.

Heuchera maxima grows primarily on moist, shady, north-facing

canyon bottoms, walls, and seacliffs, but occurs in a few interior

localities as well. Collections of Heuchera maxima were made from Santa

Rosa Island by Hoffmann in 1929 and Dunkle in 1939; however, locality

information for these collections is vague

a by its

larger size at maturity, and flowers with ten stamens rather than five.

Heuchera maxima grows primarily on moist, shady, north-facing

canyon bottoms, walls, and seacliffs, but occurs in a few interior

localities as well. Collections of Heuchera maxima were made from Santa

Rosa Island by Hoffmann in 1929 and Dunkle in 1939; however, locality

information for these collections is vague. More recently, the plant

has been collected from four locations on Santa Rosa Island (Cherry,

Lobos, Ranch, and Windmill Canyons) (Rutherford and Thomas 1994).

Heuchera maxima is also known from 11 locations on West Anacapa Island

(Rutherford and Thomas 1994; S. Junak, in litt. 1984). On Santa Cruz

Island, 12 populations occur along the west half of the north shore.

All populations observed by Hochberg et al. (1980b) on Santa Cruz

Island comprised less than 50 individuals each, and in some cases

comprised less than 6 individuals each. Threats to Heuchera maxima are

soil loss, habitat alteration and predation resulting from cattle

grazing, feral pig rooting, and elk and deer browsing. Because of the

small numbers of populations and individuals, the taxon is also

vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought,

or fire.

Santa Cruz Island bushmallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus var.

nesioticus) was first described by James W. Robinson as Malvastrum

nesioticum in Asa Gray's Flora of North America in 1897, based on

material collected by E.L. Greene in 1886 (Abrams 1951). Over the next

four decades, the taxon was placed in several different genera, as

Malacothamnus nesioticus by Abrams, Sphaeralcea nesiotica and later

Sphaeralcea fasciculata var. nesiotica by Jepson, and Malvastrum

fasciculatum var. nesioticum by McMinn (Kearney 1951). Kearney (1951)

published the new combination Malacothamnus fasciculatus var.

nesioticus. In 1993, David Bates synonymized var

Over the next

four decades, the taxon was placed in several different genera, as

Malacothamnus nesioticus by Abrams, Sphaeralcea nesiotica and later

Sphaeralcea fasciculata var. nesiotica by Jepson, and Malvastrum

fasciculatum var. nesioticum by McMinn (Kearney 1951). Kearney (1951)

published the new combination Malacothamnus fasciculatus var.

nesioticus. In 1993, David Bates synonymized var. nesioticus, as well

as seven other taxa, with Malacothamnus fasciculatus, a highly variable

species ``with many indistinct and intergrading local forms'' (Bates

1993). Of var. nesioticus, he notes that the taxon is essentially

indistinguishable from the mainland ``var. nuttallii.'' However, recent

studies on the genetics of Malacothamnus have determined that var.

nesioticus is a distinct variety (Swenson et al. in prep.).

Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is a small soft-woody

shrub in the mallow (Malvaceae) family. The plant reaches up to 2 m (6

ft) tall, and has slender branches covered with star-shaped hairs. The

palmately shaped leaves are dark green on the upper surface and gray on

the lower surface. The rose-colored flowers are up to 3.75 cm (1.5 in)

broad and scattered along the ends of the branches (Hochberg et al.

1980b). It is differentiated from the mainland var. nuttallii by its

bicolored leaves and genetic distinction (Swenson et al. in prep.).

Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is known from only two

small populations on Santa Cruz Island where it occurs within a coastal

sage scrub community. One population of less than 50 individuals (10

clones) is located on the west shore of the island near the historic

Christi Ranch. A second population was discovered in 1993 in the

Central Valley near the University of California Field Station (Swensen

et al. in prep.). Recent genetic analyses of the Central Valley

population indicated that, although there are 19 individual shrubs,

they comprise only 3 genotypes, or 3 clones. Threats to Malacothamnus

fasciculatus var

shore of the island near the historic

Christi Ranch. A second population was discovered in 1993 in the

Central Valley near the University of California Field Station (Swensen

et al. in prep.). Recent genetic analyses of the Central Valley

population indicated that, although there are 19 individual shrubs,

they comprise only 3 genotypes, or 3 clones. Threats to Malacothamnus

fasciculatus var. nesioticus are soil loss, habitat alteration and

predation resulting from past sheep grazing and current feral pig

rooting. Because of the small numbers of populations and individuals,

the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as

storms, drought, or fire. The small numbers of isolated populations and

restricted number of individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to

reduced reproductive vigor.

Santa Cruz Island malacothrix (Malacothrix indecora) was first

described by E.L. Greene (1886) as Malacothrix indecora based on

specimens collected from ``islets close to the northern shore'' of

Santa Cruz Island (Smith 1976). In 1957, E. Williams published the

combination Malacothrix foliosa var. indecora (Ferris 1960); Munz

(1974) subsequently synonymized the taxon with Malcothrix foliosa.

However, Ferris (1960) and others (Smith 1976, Davis 1980) continued to

recognize the taxon as a separate species with the name Malacothrix

indecora. This nomenclature is upheld in the most recent treatment of

the genus (Davis 1993).

Malacothrix indecora is an annual herb in the aster (Asteraceae)

family. The 20 to 40 cm (8 to 16 in) tall stems support numerous

broadly lobed fleshy leaves with blunt tips. The greenish yellow

flowers are in hemispheric heads surrounded by linear bracts (Hochberg

1980b; Scott in Junak et al., in prep.)

ora. This nomenclature is upheld in the most recent treatment of

the genus (Davis 1993).

Malacothrix indecora is an annual herb in the aster (Asteraceae)

family. The 20 to 40 cm (8 to 16 in) tall stems support numerous

broadly lobed fleshy leaves with blunt tips. The greenish yellow

flowers are in hemispheric heads surrounded by linear bracts (Hochberg

1980b; Scott in Junak et al., in prep.). Two other annual species of

Malacothrix occur on the same islands as Malacothrix indecora; however,

the achenes (seeds) of Malacothrix similis are topped with 18 teeth and

1 bristle and Malacothrix squalida is topped with irregular teeth and

no bristle, whereas Malacothrix indecora has neither of these features

(Scott in Junak et al., in prep.).

Collections of Malacothrix indecora were made from several

locations along the northeast shore of San Miguel Island and on Prince

Island by Greene, and later by Hoffmann (Hochberg et al. 1979; Davis

1987). In 1978, Hochberg et al. (1979) observed three populations;

Halvorson et al. (1992) reported finding this species at one location

during surveys in 1988 and 1989, but no collections were made to

confirm identification of the taxon. On Santa Cruz Island, Malacothrix

indecora was first collected near Twin Harbor by Williams in 1939

(Davis 1987); this population has not been relocated.

Malacothrix indecora is currently known from only one population

discovered by Junak in 1980 at Black Point on the west end of Santa

Cruz Island. Several hundred individuals were observed there by Junak

in 1985 in exposed coastal flats and associated with Santa Cruz Island

buckwheat (Eriogonum grande var. rubescens) and iceplant

(Mesembryanthemum nudiflorum) (CNDDB 1991). On a subsequent trip in

1989, only 50 plants

rrently known from only one population

discovered by Junak in 1980 at Black Point on the west end of Santa

Cruz Island. Several hundred individuals were observed there by Junak

in 1985 in exposed coastal flats and associated with Santa Cruz Island

buckwheat (Eriogonum grande var. rubescens) and iceplant

(Mesembryanthemum nudiflorum) (CNDDB 1991). On a subsequent trip in

1989, only 50 plants

were observed in the same location (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1994).

Threats to Malacothrix indecora are soil loss, habitat alteration and

predation resulting from feral pig rooting and seabird activity.

Historic habitat for Malacothrix indecora on San Miguel Island and

Prince Island has been altered by seabird nesting activity. Because of

the small numbers of populations and individuals, the taxon is also

vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as storms, drought,

or fire. The small numbers of populations and restricted number of

individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive

vigor.

Island malacothrix (Malacothrix squalida) was first described by

E.L. Greene in 1886 from specimens collected above Prisoner's Harbor on

Santa Cruz Island (Davis, in litt. 1987). In 1957, E. Williams

published the combination Malacothrix foliosa var. squalida; a year

later, Roxana Ferris (1960) published the combination Malacothrix

insularis var. squalida. In 1959, Munz recognized the taxon as

Malacothrix squalida; however, 14 years later, he synonymized it with

M. foliosa (Munz 1974). In a review of insular species of Malacothrix,

Davis (1980) recognized the taxon as Malacothrix squalida.

Like Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix squalida is an annual herb

in the aster family. However, the plant only reaches 9 cm (3.5 in)

tall, and has linear to widely lanceolate leaves that are irregularly

toothed or lobed. The light yellow flowers are clustered in hemispheric

heads 12 to 15 millimeters (mm) (0.5 to 0.6 in) long

othrix,

Davis (1980) recognized the taxon as Malacothrix squalida.

Like Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix squalida is an annual herb

in the aster family. However, the plant only reaches 9 cm (3.5 in)

tall, and has linear to widely lanceolate leaves that are irregularly

toothed or lobed. The light yellow flowers are clustered in hemispheric

heads 12 to 15 millimeters (mm) (0.5 to 0.6 in) long. Malacothrix

indecora is the only other annual Malacothrix that occurs on the same

island as M. squalida; however, the latter is a much larger species,

and also differs in the achene characteristics previously mentioned

(Scott in Junak et al., in prep.).

Malacothrix squalida has been collected from two locations along

the north shore of Santa Cruz Island; Greene collected it near

Prisoner's Harbor in 1886, but the species was not seen on the island

again until Philbrick and Benedict collected it in 1968 near Potato

Harbor (Rutherford and Thomas 1994). On Middle Anacapa Island, the

plant was first collected by Martin Piehl in 1963, and more recently in

1978 and 1986. The plant is known from several small colonies atop

coastal bluffs on the east end of the island. Surveys by Junak and

Davis in 1989 failed to find any individuals; however, this may have

been the result of a drought year (S. Junak, pers. comm. 1994). Threats

to Malacothrix squalida are soil loss, habitat alteration and predation

resulting from sheep grazing, feral pig rooting, and seabird nesting.

Because of the small numbers of isolated populations and individuals,

the taxon is also vulnerable to stochastic extinction by such events as

storms, drought, or fire. The small numbers of isolated populations and

restricted number of individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to

reduced reproductive vigor.

Island phacelia (Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis) was first

described by Munz as Phacelia insularis in 1932 based on plants growing

``on sand dunes at northeastern part of Santa Rosa Island'' (Munz

1932)

on by such events as

storms, drought, or fire. The small numbers of isolated populations and

restricted number of individuals also make the taxon vulnerable to

reduced reproductive vigor.

Island phacelia (Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis) was first

described by Munz as Phacelia insularis in 1932 based on plants growing

``on sand dunes at northeastern part of Santa Rosa Island'' (Munz

1932). Jepson published the new combination Phacelia curvipes var.

insularis in 1943. After examining specimens from coastal northern

California and determining their affinity to the island plants, John

Thomas Howell re-elevated the taxon to specific level, separating out

the northern California plants as Phacelia insularis var.

continentalis, leaving Phacelia insularis var. insularis to refer to

the island plants (Howell 1945). In 1951, Abrams, who did not have

access to collections of Phacelia from northern California, included

the taxon in the description of Phacelia divaricata, a taxon common in

southern California. In 1959, Munz published the new combination

Phacelia divaricata var. insularis (Constance 1979). Lincoln Constance

agreed with Howell's interpretation and has referred to the taxon as

Phacelia insularis var. insularis (Constance 1979). This nomenclature

has been upheld in the latest treatment of the genus (Wilken et al.

1993).

Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis is a decumbent (reclining),

branched annual of the waterleaf (Hydrophyllaceae) family. The short-

hairy and glandular stems grow to 1.5 dm (6 in) high from a basal

rosette of leaves. The small lavender to violet, bell-shaped flowers

are borne in loose cymes. The other variety of Phacelia insularis, the

variety continentalis, is found on the mainland of northern California.

Phacelia insularis var. insularis can be distinguished from the other

species of Phacelia on the islands based on the hastate leaf shape with

basal lobes. The other Phacelia have pinnately divided or undivided but

ovate leaves.

Phacelia insularis ssp

are borne in loose cymes. The other variety of Phacelia insularis, the

variety continentalis, is found on the mainland of northern California.

Phacelia insularis var. insularis can be distinguished from the other

species of Phacelia on the islands based on the hastate leaf shape with

basal lobes. The other Phacelia have pinnately divided or undivided but

ovate leaves.

Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis occurs on Santa Rosa Island and

San Miguel Island. However, the last collections from Santa Rosa Island

were made by Clifton Smith at Carrington Point in 1973; the plant has

not been observed on the island since then despite recent searches. On

San Miguel Island, Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis was collected by

Hoffmann in 1930 and by Munz in 1932. It was not collected again until

1978, when four populations were found (Hochberg et al. 1979). A fifth

population was discovered by Charles Drost on a bluff above Cuyler

Harbor in 1984 (Halvorson et al. 1992). Phacelia insularis ssp.

insularis is found within the island grassland community which is

dominated by alien grasses, including slender wild oat (Avena barbata),

wild oat (Avena fatua), ripgut (Bromus diandrus), and soft chess

(Bromus hordeaceus), with scattered occurrences of native bunchgrasses,

shrubs, and herbs (Hochberg et al. 1979). Threats to Phacelia insularis

ssp. insularis are soil loss, habitat alteration caused by cattle

grazing and elk and deer browsing. Because of the small numbers of

populations and individuals, the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic

extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire. The small

numbers of populations and restricted number of individuals also make

the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Santa Cruz Island fringepod (Thysanocarpus conchuliferus) was first

described as Thysanocarpus conchuliferus by E.L

he small numbers of

populations and individuals, the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic

extinction by such events as storms, drought, or fire. The small

numbers of populations and restricted number of individuals also make

the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Santa Cruz Island fringepod (Thysanocarpus conchuliferus) was first

described as Thysanocarpus conchuliferus by E.L. Greene in 1886 based

on material he and Brandegee collected where they found it ``common on

mossy shelves and crevices of high rocky summits and northward slopes''

on Santa Cruz Island (Greene 1886b). Four decades later, Jepson

published the new combination Thysanocarpus laciniatus var.

conchuliferus as one of three varieties of Thysanocarpus laciniatus

(Jepson 1925). Abrams re-elevated the taxon to species status in 1944.

Munz, however, republished the taxon as one of six varieties of T.

laciniatus in 1959 (Munz and Keck 1973). In the most recent treatment

of the genus, Reed C. Rollins re-elevated the taxon to species status

(Rollins 1993).

Thysanocarpus conchuliferus is a small delicate annual herb in the

mustard (Brassicaceae) family. The one to several branches grow 5 to

12.7 cm (2 to 5 in) high. The narrow, linearly lobed leaves alternate

along the stems, which terminate in a raceme of minute pink to lavender

flowers. While all members of this genus have round, flattened fruits

that are fringed with wings, Thysanocarpus conchuliferus is the only

species with a bowl-shaped fruit; this taxon is also smaller in stature

than T. lacianatus, which occurs in the same habitat (Rutherford and

Thomas 1994).

In 1932, Ralph Hoffmann reported that Thysanocarpus conchuliferus

was

e of minute pink to lavender

flowers. While all members of this genus have round, flattened fruits

that are fringed with wings, Thysanocarpus conchuliferus is the only

species with a bowl-shaped fruit; this taxon is also smaller in stature

than T. lacianatus, which occurs in the same habitat (Rutherford and

Thomas 1994).

In 1932, Ralph Hoffmann reported that Thysanocarpus conchuliferus

was

``frequent. . . from the north shore to the southwest portion of the

island'' (Hochberg et al. 1980a). A total of 14 historical locations

are known from herbarium records. In 1980, eight of these populations

were relocated (Hochberg et al. 1980b); in 1991, individuals were found

at six of these locations, and none were found at five other locations

(Klinger 1994b). In 1993, no individuals were found at any of the 14

known locations. Survey reports indicate that, in addition to abundant

rainfall that may have increased competition from alien grasses,

rooting by feral pigs was observed at all 14 locations (Klinger 1994b).

Thysanocarpus conchuliferus occurs on rocky outcrops on ridges and

canyon slopes, and is associated with a variety of herbs, ferns,

grasses, dudleya, and Selaginella (Santa Barbara Botanical Garden

1994). Threats to Thysanocarpus conchuliferus are soil loss, habitat

alteration and predation resulting from feral pig rooting. In favorable

years, competition with luxuriant alien grasses may also constitute a

threat (Klinger 1994b). Because of the small numbers of isolated

populations and individuals, the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic

extinction by such events as storms, drought, landslide, or fire. The

small numbers of populations and restricted number of individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Previous Federal Action

alien grasses may also constitute a

threat (Klinger 1994b). Because of the small numbers of isolated

populations and individuals, the plant is also vulnerable to stochastic

extinction by such events as storms, drought, landslide, or fire. The

small numbers of populations and restricted number of individuals also

make the taxon vulnerable to reduced reproductive vigor.

Previous Federal Action

Federal action on these plants began as a result of section 12 of

the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which directed the Secretary of the

Smithsonian Institution to prepare a report on those plants considered

to be endangered, threatened, or extinct in the United States. This

report, designated as House Document No. 94-51, was presented to

Congress on January 9, 1975. In that document, Arabis hoffmannii,

Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Galium

buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hofmannii, and Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis were considered to be endangered, and Dudleya nesiotica and

Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesiotica (as Malacothamnus

fasciculatus) were considered to be threatened. The Service published a

notice in the July 1, 1975, Federal Register (40 FR 27823) of its

acceptance of the report of the Smithsonian Institution as a petition

within the context of section 4(c)(2) (petition provisions are now

found in section 4(b)(3) of the Act) and its intention thereby to

review the status of the plant taxa named therein. On June 16, 1976,

the Service published a proposal in the Federal Register (42 FR 24523)

to determine approximately 1,700 vascular plant species to be

endangered species pursuant to section 4 of the Act. Dudleya nesiotica

was included in the June 16, 1976, Federal Register document.

General comments received in relation to the 1976 proposal were

summarized in an April 26, 1978, Federal Register publication (43 FR

17909). The Endangered Species Act Amendments of 1978 required that all

proposals over 2 years old be withdrawn

nt species to be

endangered species pursuant to section 4 of the Act. Dudleya nesiotica

was included in the June 16, 1976, Federal Register document.

General comments received in relation to the 1976 proposal were

summarized in an April 26, 1978, Federal Register publication (43 FR

17909). The Endangered Species Act Amendments of 1978 required that all

proposals over 2 years old be withdrawn. A 1-year grace period was

given to those proposals already more than 2 years old. In the December

10, 1979, Federal Register (44 FR 70796), the Service published a

notice of withdrawal of the portion of the June 6, 1976, proposal that

had not been made final, along with four other proposals that had

expired.

The Service published an updated notice of review for plants on

December 15, 1980 (45 FR 82480). This notice included Arabis

hoffmannii, Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis,

Dudleya nesiotica, and Malacothamus fasciculatus var. nesiotica as

Category 1 taxa. Category 1 taxa are those for which the Service has on

file substantial information on biological vulnerability and threats to

support preparation of listing proposals. Arctostaphylos confertiflora

and Galium buxifolium were included as Category 2 taxa. Category 2 taxa

are those for which data in the Service's possession indicate listing

is possibly appropriate, but for which substantial data on biological

vulnerability and threats are not currently known or on file to support

proposed rules. On November 28, 1983, the Service published in the

Federal Register a supplement to the Notice of Review (48 FR 53640), in

which Arabis hoffmannii was listed as a Category 1* taxon, the asterisk

indicating that the species is believed to be extinct. In the same

notice, Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya

nesiotica, Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera maxima, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Phacelia insularis var

upplement to the Notice of Review (48 FR 53640), in

which Arabis hoffmannii was listed as a Category 1* taxon, the asterisk

indicating that the species is believed to be extinct. In the same

notice, Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya

nesiotica, Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera maxima, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus, Phacelia insularis var.

insularis, and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus were included as Category 2

candidates.

The plant notice was revised again on September 27, 1985 (50 FR

39526). In that notice, all taxa maintained their previous status. On

February 21, 1990 (55 FR 6184), the plant notice was again revised. In

this notice, Arabis hoffmannii was included as a Category 1 candidate,

as individuals of this taxon had been rediscovered since the previous

Notice of Review. Arctostaphylos confertiflora, Castilleja mollis,

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya nesiotica, Galium

buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii, Helianthemum greenei,

Heuchera maxima, Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, Malacothamnus

fasciculatus, Phacelia insularis var. insularis, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus were included as Category 2 candidates. Malacothrix

indecora was included in the February 21, 1990, notice for the first

time as a Category 2 candidate.

The plant notice was revised on September 30, 1993 (58 FR 51144).

In this notice, Arabis hoffmannii, Arctostaphylos confertiflora,

Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Galium

buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus, Malacothrix

indecora, Phacelia insularis var. insularis, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus were included as Category 1 candidates. Dudleya

nesiotica, Helianthemum greenei, and Heuchera maxima were included as

Category 2 candidates; Malacothrix squalida was included for the first

time as a Category 2 candidate

fmannii, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus, Malacothrix

indecora, Phacelia insularis var. insularis, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus were included as Category 1 candidates. Dudleya

nesiotica, Helianthemum greenei, and Heuchera maxima were included as

Category 2 candidates; Malacothrix squalida was included for the first

time as a Category 2 candidate. Dudleya nesiotica, Helianthemum

greenei, Heuchera maxima, and Malacothrix squalida are being included

in this proposal based on a more thorough review of existing

information, and additional information that was brought to the

attention of the Service by Steve Junak, botanist at Santa Barbara

Botanic Garden. Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' is being included in

this proposal on the basis of new published information concerning its

distinctness as a taxon and a review of existing biological information

that indicates the species should be elevated to Category 1 status and

that listing is warranted.

Section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act requires the Secretary to make

certain findings on pending petitions within 12 months of their

receipt. Section 2(b)(1) of the 1982 amendments further requires that

all petitions pending on October 13, 1982, be treated as having been

newly submitted on that date. This was the case for Arabis hoffmannii,

Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya

nesiotica, Galium buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii,

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, and Malacothamnus fasciculatus var.

nesioticus because the 1975 Smithsonian report had been accepted as a

petition. On October 13, 1983, the Service found that the petitioned

listing of these species was warranted, but precluded by other

tilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya

nesiotica, Galium buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii,

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, and Malacothamnus fasciculatus var.

nesioticus because the 1975 Smithsonian report had been accepted as a

petition. On October 13, 1983, the Service found that the petitioned

listing of these species was warranted, but precluded by other

pending listing actions, in accordance with section 4(b)(3)(B)(iii) of

the Act; notification of this finding was published on January 20, 1984

(49 FR 2485). Such a finding requires the petition to be recycled,

pursuant to section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Act. The finding was reviewed

in October of 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, and

1993. Publication of this proposal constitutes the warranted finding

for these species, as well as for Arctostaphylos confertiflora,

Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera maxima, Malacothrix indecora,

Malacothrix squalida, Phacelia insularis var. insularis, and

Thysanocarpus conchuliferus.

Summary of Factors Affecting the Species

Section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)

and regulations (50 CFR part 424) promulgated to implement the listing

provisions of the Act set forth the procedures for adding species to

the Federal lists. A species may be determined to be an endangered or

threatened species due to one or more of the five factors described in

section 4(a)(1). These factors and their application to Arabis

hoffmannii (Munz) Roll., Arctostaphylos confertiflora Eastw., Berberis

pinnata Lag. ssp. insularis Munz, Castilleja mollis Penn., Dudleya

blochmaniae (Eastw.) Moran ssp. insularis (Moran) Moran, Dudleya

nesiotica (Moran) Moran, Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' (S. McCabe),

Galium buxifolium E. Greene, Gilia tenuiflora Benth. ssp. hoffmannii

(Eastw.) A.& V. Grant, Helianthemum greenei Rob., Heuchera maxima E.

Greene, Malacothamnus fasciculatus (Nutt.) E. Greene ssp. nesioticus

(Rob.) Kearn., Malacothrix indecora E

Penn., Dudleya

blochmaniae (Eastw.) Moran ssp. insularis (Moran) Moran, Dudleya

nesiotica (Moran) Moran, Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' (S. McCabe),

Galium buxifolium E. Greene, Gilia tenuiflora Benth. ssp. hoffmannii

(Eastw.) A.& V. Grant, Helianthemum greenei Rob., Heuchera maxima E.

Greene, Malacothamnus fasciculatus (Nutt.) E. Greene ssp. nesioticus

(Rob.) Kearn., Malacothrix indecora E. Greene, Malacothrix squalida E.

Greene, Phacelia insularis Munz var. insularis, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus E. Greene are as follows:

A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment

of Its Habitat or Range

The single most important loss of resources to insular ecosystems

is the loss of soils, as the soils are the foundation for the unique

island ecosystems and the insular endemic species found within them.

This loss of soils is the result of historic grazing and browsing by

sheep, goat, cattle, deer, elk, and bison, and rooting by pigs on the

various islands starting in the early 1800's, and in certain cases,

continuing today.

The increased loss of soils and the resulting change in vegetation

have been documented from sediment and pollen records in a soil core

dating back 5,200 years from the Old Ranch Canyon marsh on eastern

Santa Rosa Island (Cole 1994). Rates of sedimentation prior to the

introduction of livestock averaged 9 mm/year (yr) (0.35 in/yr),

increasing to 58 mm/yr (2.28 in/yr) after the introduction of grazing

(Cole 1994). Pollen records demonstrate that the conversion of

brushland to grassland occured with the onset of ranching in the early

1800's. This change in vegetation is reflected by an increased

abundance of grass pollen, a decrease in pollen from the mint and pea

families, and a massive increase in sediment (Cole 1994)

increasing to 58 mm/yr (2.28 in/yr) after the introduction of grazing

(Cole 1994). Pollen records demonstrate that the conversion of

brushland to grassland occured with the onset of ranching in the early

1800's. This change in vegetation is reflected by an increased

abundance of grass pollen, a decrease in pollen from the mint and pea

families, and a massive increase in sediment (Cole 1994). The potential

for large sediment loads is also illustrated by the recent attempts to

stabilize soils at Johnson's Lee on the south side of Santa Rosa

Island; rice straw wattles placed along hillside contours trapped large

volumes of sediment after only one season of rains (Sellgren 1994).

A comparison of historical descriptions of island vegetation with

current conditions indicates that large-scale alteration of habitats

caused by large numbers of non-native mammals on the islands resulted

in significant loss of soils as well as changes in plant communities in

terms of structural composition, species richness, species composition,

and absolute cover. In 1883, Thompson and West described the effects of

sheep grazing on Santa Cruz Island: ``The island becomes at some times

overstocked, and may be said to be in that condition much of the time.

The result is that the grasses, being cropped so close, die out, and

allow the loosened soil to be removed by wind and rain'' (Hochberg et

al. 1980a). However, at that time, vegetation elsewhere on the island

was still relatively intact; Greene described mixed forests of large-

leaved maple (Acer macrophyllum), live oak (Quercus agrifolia), black

cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), and willow (Salix laevigata) thriving

in the canyons (Hochberg et al. 1980a). Another account was given by

Delphine Adelaide Caire in 1933, who reflected on the conditions of

Santa Cruz Island: ``Its present natural beauty does not come up to

that of the past

scribed mixed forests of large-

leaved maple (Acer macrophyllum), live oak (Quercus agrifolia), black

cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), and willow (Salix laevigata) thriving

in the canyons (Hochberg et al. 1980a). Another account was given by

Delphine Adelaide Caire in 1933, who reflected on the conditions of

Santa Cruz Island: ``Its present natural beauty does not come up to

that of the past. The bed of the stream that skirts the Main Ranch on

its way from Pacacho Diablo was much narrower than it is today;

mountain slopes were heavily wooded and centuries-old oaks were

numerous. In the course of years, rains have accomplished their ruinous

work, carrying off a great amount of topsoil, the innumerable trails

cut by sharp sheep trotters having been a contributing factor in such

devastation'' (Hochberg et al. 1980a).

The importance of soils in maintaining habitat for the proposed

taxa is found not only in their physical properties, but in their

biotic properties as well. Healthy soils play host to a complex matrix

of soil organisms, including fragile microbial components, that assist

in such processes as water-holding capacity, soil fertility, and

nutrient cycling. These processes have been adversely affected by the

activities of alien mammals. For instance, the loss of leaf litter from

trampling and rooting changes soil temperatures, increases the loss of

moisture, reduces the humus layers, and results in a reduced soil fauna

(Bennett 1993). The breakdown of organic material, transport of fungal

spores, and nutrient recycling have been documented for soil mites on

Santa Catalina Island (Bennett 1993). Soil mite diversity decreased

with increased disturbance, creating impoverished nutrient levels in

the soil (Bennett 1993). A feature of arid-land soils (typical of the

island soils) is the presence of a cyanobacterial-lichen crust that

facilitates stabilization of steep slopes and nutrient cycling (Belnap

1994)

ing have been documented for soil mites on

Santa Catalina Island (Bennett 1993). Soil mite diversity decreased

with increased disturbance, creating impoverished nutrient levels in

the soil (Bennett 1993). A feature of arid-land soils (typical of the

island soils) is the presence of a cyanobacterial-lichen crust that

facilitates stabilization of steep slopes and nutrient cycling (Belnap

1994). The crusts are extremely brittle during the dry summer months

and can be eliminated by the shattering influences of trampling by non-

native herbivores (Belnap 1994). The historic and current presence of

non-native herbivores and pigs has reduced leaf litter and compacted

and degraded the soil structure, resulting in accelerated rates of

erosion (Klinger et al. 1994, Nishida 1994).

Even after the agents that initiated erosion have been removed,

loss of soils continues (Clark et al. 1990, Halvorson 1993). Because

both the biotic and physical properties of the soils have been degraded

or lost altogether, the soils that remain behind provide poor

conditions for seedlings to germinate and establish. On Santa Rosa

Island, a grove of island oaks (Quercus tomentella), a Category 2

candidate for Federal listing, has shown few signs of regeneration on

soils severely affected by erosion even after an exclosure was built to

eliminate cattle, elk, and deer (Danielsen 1989a, 1989b). All 16 taxa

in this proposed rule are threatened with habitat instability due to

the loss and degradation of soils on all islands.

Several historic accounts include specific references to the

abundance and distribution of several of the proposed taxa, which can

be compared to current abundance and distribution information. In a

letter to Hoffmann in 1932 concerning Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis,

Munz remarked that,

d rule are threatened with habitat instability due to

the loss and degradation of soils on all islands.

Several historic accounts include specific references to the

abundance and distribution of several of the proposed taxa, which can

be compared to current abundance and distribution information. In a

letter to Hoffmann in 1932 concerning Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis,

Munz remarked that,

``Brandegee says of B. pinnata, that it is `common' on S.C.'' (S.

Junak, in litt. 1994); Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis is currently

known from three small populations. In 1890, Brandegee wrote that

Heuchera maxima was ``not uncommon throughout Santa Cruz Island''

(Hochberg et al. 1980a); it is currently reduced to 12 populations on

that island, and 11 populations on West Anacapa Island. Apparently,

Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus was already rare by the turn

of the century; Greene wrote that the plant was ``rare; only two bushes

seen, and these under the protection of large opuntias; perhaps thus

kept from the sheep'' (Hochberg et al. 1980a).

Seabirds have altered historic habitat for Malacothrix indecora on

San Miguel Island and Prince Island, and known sites for Malacothrix

squalida on Anacapa Island. CINP has been monitoring certain seabirds,

including the double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), the

pelagic cormorant (Phalacrocorax pelagicus), the federally endangered

brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), the western gull (Larus

occidentalis), and Cassin's auklet (Ptychoramphus aleuticus), on

islands within CINP since 1985. Many of these bird species experienced

severe population declines in the late 1960's and early 1970's as a

result of DDT-related reproductive failures (Ingram 1994). However,

monitoring results indicate that populations of most of these birds

have increased over the past decade

estern gull (Larus

occidentalis), and Cassin's auklet (Ptychoramphus aleuticus), on

islands within CINP since 1985. Many of these bird species experienced

severe population declines in the late 1960's and early 1970's as a

result of DDT-related reproductive failures (Ingram 1994). However,

monitoring results indicate that populations of most of these birds

have increased over the past decade. Seabirds use local vegetation to

construct nests on cliff and blufftop sites, create localized soil

disturbances that facilitate establishment of alien plant species, and

promote erosion of coastal bluffs. Seabird activity has been noted on

Middle Anacapa Island within habitat for Malacothrix squalida (S.

Junak, pers. comm. 1994).

In 1990, seabirds on Prince Island included 10,000 Cassin's auklets

and 240 double-crested cormorants (Ingram 1994); other seabirds that

nest on the island but were not monitored include the ashy storm-petrel

(Oceanodroma homochroa), Leach's storm-petrel (Oceanodroma lencorhoa),

Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus), pelagic cormorant,

brown pelican, western gull, pigeon guillemot (Cepphus columba), and

Xantus' murrelet (Synthliboramphus hypoleuca). Due to the degree of

protection afforded this nesting activity by CINP, surveys for

Malacothrix indecora within historic habitat have not been done since

the taxon was last seen there in 1978. Given the size of the island (24

hectares (60 acres)) and the number of nesting birds, habitat for

Malacothrix indecora has likely been affected.

Compaction of soils and crushing of plants resulting from vehicle

traffic is a potential threat to three of the proposed taxa on Santa

Rosa Island: Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya sp. nov.

``East Point,'' and Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii. Populations of

all three taxa occur at sites where vehicles were historically or are

currently used. The only known population of Gilia tenuiflora ssp.

hoffmannii is bisected by a road.

ulting from vehicle

traffic is a potential threat to three of the proposed taxa on Santa

Rosa Island: Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya sp. nov.

``East Point,'' and Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii. Populations of

all three taxa occur at sites where vehicles were historically or are

currently used. The only known population of Gilia tenuiflora ssp.

hoffmannii is bisected by a road.

B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or

Educational Purposes

Unrestricted collecting for scientific or horticultural purposes

and excessive visits by individuals interested in seeing rare plants

constitutes a potential threat to certain of the taxa in this proposal.

In particular, the collection of whole plants or reproductive parts of

those annual or herbaceous perennial taxa with fewer than 100

individuals, including Arabis hoffmannii, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus, Malacothrix

indecora, Malacothrix squalida, and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus, could

adversely affect the genetic viability and survival of those taxa. In

the horticultural trade, Dudleya species have, in particular, been

favorite collection items. Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point'' was

collected and introduced into the horticultural trade long ago as

``white sprite.'' Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis and Dudleya

nesiotica, though not in the trade, have been cultivated by Dudleya

enthusiasts. The limited distribution of these three taxa makes them

vulnerable to such enthusiasts. Heuchera maxima is also found in

cultivation; the threat of collection for this taxon is unknown.

C. Disease or Predation

to the horticultural trade long ago as

``white sprite.'' Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis and Dudleya

nesiotica, though not in the trade, have been cultivated by Dudleya

enthusiasts. The limited distribution of these three taxa makes them

vulnerable to such enthusiasts. Heuchera maxima is also found in

cultivation; the threat of collection for this taxon is unknown.

C. Disease or Predation

In 1875, when sheep stocking on Santa Cruz Island was around 50,000

head, botanist J.T. Rothrock reported that the island was so overgrazed

that ``it was with difficulty that I could get even a decent botanical

specimen'' (Hobbs 1983). Although sheep grazing has been removed as a

current threat, the decades of overgrazing by sheep have had long-term

effects in reducing the reproductive capabilities and distribution of

many of the taxa included in this proposal. A review of literature

pertinent to effects of sheep on island vegetation is included in

Hochberg et al. (1980a). Feral pigs, feral goats, sheep, deer, elk,

horses, and bison currently occur in habitats that support populations

of most of the taxa included in this proposal. In addition to modifying

habitat through altering the structure and composition of plant

communities, altering hydrologic and soil characteristics, and

increasing the potential for erosion as discussed under Factor A, non-

native mammals also affect the proposed plant taxa through direct

herbivory. The effects of defoliation on plants include decreased

aboveground biomass, fewer stems, less seed, reduced height of leaves

and stems, decreased root biomass, reduced root length, decreased

carbohydrate reserves, and reduced vigor (Heady in Willoughby 1986).

The effects of grazing animals on plants can be demonstrated by

studies on oaks and pines on the Channel Islands. On Santa Cruz Island,

oak groves are more numerous and in better condition than those on

Santa Rosa Island, but still show no signs of recruitment due to pig

rooting

root biomass, reduced root length, decreased

carbohydrate reserves, and reduced vigor (Heady in Willoughby 1986).

The effects of grazing animals on plants can be demonstrated by

studies on oaks and pines on the Channel Islands. On Santa Cruz Island,

oak groves are more numerous and in better condition than those on

Santa Rosa Island, but still show no signs of recruitment due to pig

rooting. A recent comparison of fenced and unfenced sites under live

oak (Quercus agrifolia) tree canopies showed a significant number of

oak seedlings within the fenced sites (Peart et al. 1994). On Santa

Cruz Island, the removal of feral sheep has been credited with allowing

the reestablishment of native woody perennials including the Bishop

pine (Pinus muricata) (Wehtje 1994). On Santa Rosa Island, the Bishop

pine continues to display low recruitment and high older-tree mortality

caused by deer browsing, placing the population ``at risk'' (of

extirpation) under present conditions (Viers and Halvorson 1994). The

Santa Cruz Island ironwood (Lyonothamnus floribundus ssp.

asplenifolius), a Category 2 candidate for Federal listing, is

similarly lacking in recruitment on Santa Rosa Island.

Clark et al. (1990) noted that most individuals of Santa Rosa

Island manzanita suffer from severe browsing by elk and deer. The shape

of individual shrubs has been modified as a result of browsing. Short-

statured shrubs have been hedged to the point that they do not grow

above a certain height; in shrubs that attained a taller stature before

browsing pressure became severe, all lower limbs and leaves have been

stripped, resulting in a ``lollipop'' or tree-shaped shrub. Apparently,

the browsing pressure on Santa Rosa Island manzanita has affected its

ability to reproduce; Clark reported not seeing a single seedling

during a survey in 1988 (Ronilee Clark, ecologist, California Park

Service, pers. comm. 1994)

taller stature before

browsing pressure became severe, all lower limbs and leaves have been

stripped, resulting in a ``lollipop'' or tree-shaped shrub. Apparently,

the browsing pressure on Santa Rosa Island manzanita has affected its

ability to reproduce; Clark reported not seeing a single seedling

during a survey in 1988 (Ronilee Clark, ecologist, California Park

Service, pers. comm. 1994).

The widespread effects of grazing on island vegetation have been

illustrated through the above examples; similar effects on the proposed

taxa are inferred. However, specific examples of

browsing or grazing by alien mammals on certain proposed taxa have been

observed, including Castilleja mollis, Gilia tenuiflora ssp.

hoffmannii, Arabis hoffmannii, and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus. In

1993, perhaps as much as 20 percent of the Carrington Point populations

of Castilleja mollis were consumed by deer. Individual plants were

excavated, leaving depressions in the sandy soils where plants had been

observed five months earlier (Sarah Chaney, CINP, pers. comm. 1993).

Grazing can completely eliminate plants and prevent the supplement

of seed to the seed bank. Of the six collections of Gilia in the

herbarium at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, only two collections

made during April 1941 show no signs of browsing. The remaining four

collections were made between the months of May and June between 1963

and 1978, and all show signs of having been browsed (Rutherford and

Thomas, in litt. 1994). In 1993, Thomas visited the Gilia population

twice; during the first visit in April, the Gilia had not been browsed,

but by the second visit in May, the Gilia had been browsed (Thomas, in

litt. 1993). In response to such browsing, the annual Gilia forms

multiple side branches; an individual plant may produce a greater

number of flowers, but this does not necessarily increase the fecundity

of the plant (Painter and Belsky 1993)

pulation

twice; during the first visit in April, the Gilia had not been browsed,

but by the second visit in May, the Gilia had been browsed (Thomas, in

litt. 1993). In response to such browsing, the annual Gilia forms

multiple side branches; an individual plant may produce a greater

number of flowers, but this does not necessarily increase the fecundity

of the plant (Painter and Belsky 1993). Flowers produced later in the

season out of synchrony with pollinator activity lowers seed

productivity.

The Nature Conservancy has been monitoring population sizes for

Arabis hoffmannii on Santa Cruz Island since 1990. In 1993, only 19

individuals were observed in the Centinela population; this represented

a net loss of 13 individuals from the previous year, with mortality of

9 of those plants ``directly attributed to pig rooting'' (Klinger

1994a). Pigs also ``rooted up entirely'' 6 out of 14 populations of

Thysanocarpus conchuliferus that were monitored in 1993 (Klinger

1994b).

All of the taxa included in this proposal, with the exception of

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, have populations that are subject to

predation by one or more non-native mammals. Apparently, the roots of

Berberis species are often toxic (Williams 1993), making consumption by

feral pigs unlikely.

The response of plant communities to the removal of grazing depends

in part on the degree of disturbance that has already been caused by

grazing. Lightly grazed areas may return to pregrazing conditions more

quickly. In areas that have been more heavily grazed, the loss of soils

and their physical and biotic properties may favor the recovery of

certain species over others once grazing has been eliminated. If

ecosystem processes have been reduced or eliminated through heavy and/

or long-term grazing, pre-grazing conditions may never be attained

during the recovery process. The effects of the removal of grazing from

the proposed taxa are unknown

azed, the loss of soils

and their physical and biotic properties may favor the recovery of

certain species over others once grazing has been eliminated. If

ecosystem processes have been reduced or eliminated through heavy and/

or long-term grazing, pre-grazing conditions may never be attained

during the recovery process. The effects of the removal of grazing from

the proposed taxa are unknown. While populations of other island taxa

have increased once grazing pressure has been removed (Peart et al.

1994, Wehtje 1994), other taxa, such as the insular form of Torrey pine

(Pinus torreyana), may decrease with a reduction in grazing pressure

(Viers and Halvorson 1994). Junak observed that after sheep were

removed in 1989, Helianthemum greenei populations increased in size for

several years, most likely in response to the release of grazing

pressure. However, with grazing pressure removed, other shrub taxa also

increased in cover, leading to increased competition for resources, and

a subsequent decline in Helianthemum greenei population sizes (S.

Junak, pers. comm. 1994).

Diseases are not specifically known to threaten any of the taxa

included in this proposal.

D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

Under the Native Plant Protection Act (sec. 1900 et seq. of the

Fish and Game Code) and the California Endangered Species Act (sec.

2050 et seq.), the California Fish and Game Commission has listed

Dudleya nesiotica and Galium buxifolium as rare and Berberis pinnata

ssp. insularis and Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesiotica as

endangered. The remaining taxa included in this listing proposal,

excepting Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,'' are on List 1B of the

California Native Plant Society's Inventory (Smith and Berg 1988),

indicating that, in accordance with sec. 1901, chapter 10 of the

California Department of Fish and Game Code, they are eligible for

State listing

s and Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesiotica as

endangered. The remaining taxa included in this listing proposal,

excepting Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,'' are on List 1B of the

California Native Plant Society's Inventory (Smith and Berg 1988),

indicating that, in accordance with sec. 1901, chapter 10 of the

California Department of Fish and Game Code, they are eligible for

State listing. Though both the Native Plant Protection Act and the

California Endangered Species Act prohibit the ``take'' of State-listed

plants (sec. 1908 and sec. 2080 of the Fish and Game Code), State law

appears to exempt the destruction of such plants via habitat

modification or land use change by the landowner. After the California

Department of Fish and Game notifies a landowner that a State-listed

plant grows on his or her property, State law requires only that the

landowner notify the agency ``at least 10 days in advance of changing

the land use to allow salvage of such plant'' (sec. 1913). Privately

owned lands that support populations of the taxa in this proposal

include most of Santa Cruz Island, 90 percent of which is owned by TNC;

the remaining 10 percent is owned jointly by NPS and a private

landowner. On Santa Catalina Island, habitat for Helianthemum greenei

occurs on land managed by the Catalina Conservancy, a private

conservancy owned by the Catalina Island Company. In general, these

State regulatory mechanisms would not likely be invoked, because major

changes in land use, such as development projects, are not likely to be

proposed on these properties. Furthermore, without such proposed

changes in land use, the State is unlikely to take regulatory action

over ongoing activities, such as cattle, sheep, goat, and bison

grazing, and deer browsing.

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) also regulates

hunting on private and public lands by issuing permits for the take of

a specified number of animals and taking measures to manage herd sizes

, without such proposed

changes in land use, the State is unlikely to take regulatory action

over ongoing activities, such as cattle, sheep, goat, and bison

grazing, and deer browsing.

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) also regulates

hunting on private and public lands by issuing permits for the take of

a specified number of animals and taking measures to manage herd sizes.

The Commission issues permits for deer hunting on Santa Catalina

Island. In 1993, the Commission issued 300 tags for deer hunting on the

island; due to an increasing herd size, the Commission may grant a

request from the Catalina Island Company to issue a larger number of

tags in 1994 (Ken Mayer, California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG),

pers. comm. 1994). Pigs are considered livestock if they are fenced or

marked, but considered wild game if they are unfenced and unmarked. The

Catalina Island Company has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding

(MOU) with CDFG to allow eradication of feral pigs on Catalina Island

(Mayer, pers. comm. 1994). A similar MOU between CDFG and TNC exists

for the removal of pigs from Santa Cruz Island. Bison, which occur on

Santa Catalina Island, are considered livestock and therefore not

regulated by any agency. Apparently, the Commission has no regulatory

authority over hunting or herd size of deer and elk on Santa Rosa

Island, because these ungulates were originally transported there under

a game breeder's permit in the early 1900's.

Several Federal laws, Department of the Interior policies, and

National Park Service policies and guidelines apply to the management

of NPS lands. These laws and guidelines include the National

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act, NPS

guidelines for natural resources management (NPS 1991), and the CINP

Statement for Management (NPS 1985). The 1980 Congressional legislation

enabling purchase of Santa Rosa Island

ior policies, and

National Park Service policies and guidelines apply to the management

of NPS lands. These laws and guidelines include the National

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act, NPS

guidelines for natural resources management (NPS 1991), and the CINP

Statement for Management (NPS 1985). The 1980 Congressional legislation

enabling purchase of Santa Rosa Island

as a national park from the Vail and Vickers Company stated that the

owner ``may retain for himself a right of use and occupancy of all or

such portion of the property as the owner may elect for a definite term

of not more than twenty-five years, or ending at the death of the

owner, or his spouse, whichever is later. The owner shall elect the

term to be reserved. Any such right retained pursuant to this

subsection with respect to any property shall be subject to termination

by the Secretary upon his determination that such property is being

used for any purpose which is incompatible with the administration of

the park, or with the preservation of the resources therein, and it

shall terminate by operation of law upon notification by the Secretary

to the holder of the right of such determination and tendering to him

the amount equal to the fair market value of that portion which remains

unexpired'' (Public Law 96-199, 94 Stat. 67, March 5, 1980). The

legislation also directed the Secretary to complete a natural resources

study within two years that would supply an inventory of all

terrestrial and marine species, indicating their population dynamics,

and probable trends as to future numbers and welfare, and to recommend

action that should be adopted to better protect the natural resources

of the park.

Under this legislation, the former owners, the Vail and Vickers

Company, chose to retain the rights to occupy 3.1 hectares (7.6 acres),

to continue the cattle ranching operation, and to continue a commercial

deer and elk hunting operation

and probable trends as to future numbers and welfare, and to recommend

action that should be adopted to better protect the natural resources

of the park.

Under this legislation, the former owners, the Vail and Vickers

Company, chose to retain the rights to occupy 3.1 hectares (7.6 acres),

to continue the cattle ranching operation, and to continue a commercial

deer and elk hunting operation. To allow such continued use, NPS issues

Special Use Permits (SUP) for five-year terms. The first SUP that was

issued to Vail and Vickers Company included a condition that a range

management plan be developed within five years. The plan, however, does

not address protection of the proposed taxa (USFWS 1991, 1992, 1993).

Due to unresolved NEPA issues (the apparent need to prepare an

Environmental Impact Statement for the first SUP), the Record of

Decision for the document has not been signed.

In a recent review of the range management plan, the Service found

that measuring residual dry matter, the proposed means of determining

appropriate stocking rates, is inadequate to monitor other indicators

of ecosystem health, including composition and diversity of species,

and the condition of candidate plant species (USFWS 1993). The

monitoring of sensitive resources within grazed areas is commonly

recommended (NPS 1991, Ruyle 1987, Willoughby 1986), but in this case

has not been included in the range management plan. Currently, the

condition of the vegetation on Santa Rosa Island is monitored by

assessing the residual dry matter of grassland vegetation, which is

composed primarily of non-native species (NPS 1993).

San Miguel Island and adjacent Prince Island (a small islet) are

under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Navy (Navy), but NPS

assists in the management of natural, historic, and scientific values

of San Miguel Island through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) originally

signed in 1963, an amendment signed in 1976, and a supplemental

Interagency Agreement (IA) signed in 1985

(NPS 1993).

San Miguel Island and adjacent Prince Island (a small islet) are

under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Navy (Navy), but NPS

assists in the management of natural, historic, and scientific values

of San Miguel Island through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) originally

signed in 1963, an amendment signed in 1976, and a supplemental

Interagency Agreement (IA) signed in 1985. The MOA states that the

``paramount use of the islands and their environs shall be for the

purpose of a missile test range, and all activities conducted by or in

behalf of the Department of the Interior on such islands, shall

recognize the priority of such use'' (Department of the Navy 1963). In

addition to San Miguel Island, four other islands including Anacapa,

Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa lie wholly within the Navy's

Pacific Missile Test Center (PMTC) Sea Test Range. The 1985 IA provides

for PMTC to have access and use of portions of those islands, for

expeditious processing of any necessary permits by NPS, and for

mitigation of damage of park resources from any such activity

(Department of the Navy 1985). Should the Navy no longer require use of

the islands, NPS would seek authorization for the islands to be

preserved and protected as units within the NPS system (Department of

the Navy 1976). To date, conflicts concerning protection of sensitive

resources on San Miguel Island have not occurred; however, protection

and management for the three proposed taxa that occur on the island,

Galium buxifolium, Malacothrix squalida, and Phacelia insularis ssp.

insularis, have not been addressed, leaving in question which agency

has ultimate responsibility to do so.

E

ment of

the Navy 1976). To date, conflicts concerning protection of sensitive

resources on San Miguel Island have not occurred; however, protection

and management for the three proposed taxa that occur on the island,

Galium buxifolium, Malacothrix squalida, and Phacelia insularis ssp.

insularis, have not been addressed, leaving in question which agency

has ultimate responsibility to do so.

E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Its Continued Existence

Several species of non-native aggressive plant species are

considered problematic invaders, including Australian fireweed

(Erechtites glomerata), several species of iceplant (Carpobrotus spp.,

Mesembryanthemum spp.), several thistle species (Centaurea spp.,

Cirsium spp., Silybum sp.), German ivy (Senecio mikanoides), hoary

cress (Cardaria draba), and Russian thistle (Salsola iberica). Over 180

species of non-native plant species have been documented from the

northern island group (Hochberg et al. 1979, Halvorson et al. 1987).

Displacement of native habitats and species has been a concern for the

natural resource managers on the islands.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has apparently become widespread since

the removal of sheep from Santa Cruz Island. Fennel was noticed as a

pest species prior to the removal of sheep as reported in Hobbs (1983).

Sheep kept the plant from growing to its full height of 2 m (6 ft);

since their removal, the plant has ``appeared'' over large areas of the

island. Several papers were presented at a recent (1994) symposium on

techniques used to control fennel (Brenton and Klinger 1994, Dash and

Gliessman 1994, Gliessman 1994), which, when left unchecked, completely

dominates the habitats it occupies to the exclusion of other species.

Fennel apparently contains a chemical that prevents other species from

competing for occupied sites (Gliessman 1994)

and. Several papers were presented at a recent (1994) symposium on

techniques used to control fennel (Brenton and Klinger 1994, Dash and

Gliessman 1994, Gliessman 1994), which, when left unchecked, completely

dominates the habitats it occupies to the exclusion of other species.

Fennel apparently contains a chemical that prevents other species from

competing for occupied sites (Gliessman 1994).

Incidental introductions of seed to the Channel Islands occur

constantly; sources include wind-blown seed from the mainland,

introductions from restocking non-native animals, and operational

equipment (vehicles and construction materials). Deliberate

introductions of seed also occur; during the 1960's, one pilot recalled

scattering bags of commercial wildflower and grass seed on most of the

northern Channel Islands (Rutherford, in litt. 1994). When new

introductions and established seed sources occur in areas with

consistent disturbance resulting from grazing, browsing, and rooting by

non-native mammals, the invasions can become overwhelming. These

invasive species have a high probability of preventing recruitment and

causing habitat displacement of all taxa in this proposed rule.

TNC acquired nine-tenths of Santa Cruz Island from the previous

landowner in 1987. TNC's general goals for preserve management include

the preservation, protection, restoration, and understanding of the

natural resources (Rob Klinger, TNC, Santa Cruz Island, pers. comm.

1994). Although a specific management plan for the Santa Cruz Island

Preserve has not been developed, certain management activities have

already been undertaken. These activities include long-term monitoring

of specific plant communities and rare plant populations; trial

programs in feral pig removal, herbicide treatment of alien plant

species, and controlled burns in grassland and island pine communities;

and research on specific species, and response of plant communities to

been developed, certain management activities have

already been undertaken. These activities include long-term monitoring

of specific plant communities and rare plant populations; trial

programs in feral pig removal, herbicide treatment of alien plant

species, and controlled burns in grassland and island pine communities;

and research on specific species, and response of plant communities to

removal of non-native mammals. A five-year trial feral pig removal

program was successful in removing all but a few pigs from a 2,400-

hectare (6,000-acre) exclosure on the south side of the island. The

number of pigs has begun to increase. TNC also took immediate steps to

remove sheep upon acquiring the property, but has been unable to manage

the apparent rapid invasion of alien fennel that resulted from the

release of grazing pressure. TNC is exploring options for implementing

island-wide feral pig removal and other management activities; these

options may include developing an agreement with NPS for that agency to

manage the island.

The species that occupy insular habitats, like those found on the

nearby mainland, have characteristics that enable them to recover from

fire events. These characteristics include the production of seeds that

respond favorably to fire temperatures and chemical products (charates)

and root burls that resprout following a fire (Carroll et al. 1993).

Tree ring histories from island Torrey pines with fire scars reveal

that pre-livestock fire events occurred at 20 to 30 year intervals

(Viers and Halvorson 1994). Since little evidence exists that lightning

fires occur at these frequencies (Carroll et al. 1993), man is

implicated as the principal agent of ignition (Timbrook et al. 1982).

Fire has been removed as a functioning ecological process on the

islands for over 150 years. The absence of fire has created an

imbalance in recruitment and regeneration of ecosystem components,

including many of the proposed species

dence exists that lightning

fires occur at these frequencies (Carroll et al. 1993), man is

implicated as the principal agent of ignition (Timbrook et al. 1982).

Fire has been removed as a functioning ecological process on the

islands for over 150 years. The absence of fire has created an

imbalance in recruitment and regeneration of ecosystem components,

including many of the proposed species. Therefore, the current

distribution of island vegetation does not represent prehistoric

conditions (Minnich 1980). Many of the brushland species will not

regenerate without fire and with age will die back. Browsing and

grazing animals reduce the probability of survival for these fire-

adapted species by removing seed and seedlings. This could be

devastating to recruitment following a fire event. Seedling consumption

could effectively terminate the subsequent generation necessary to re-

establish the seed bank.

The fuel load (the amount of standing and downed vegetation) has

been dramatically altered from heavy (brush) to light (grass) through

the agents of ranching and sport hunting management. The characteristic

fire intensities and durations shifted from long duration and high

intensity with brush fuels to short duration and light intensities with

grass fuels. The life history requirements of most taxa in this

proposed rule (Arabis hoffmannii, Arctostaphylos confertiflora,

Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, Castilleja mollis, Galium buxifolium,

Helianthemum greenei, Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus,

Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix squalida, Phacelia insularis ssp.

insularis, and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus) are based upon the

occurrence of fires to promote reproduction and reduce competition with

other species.

Many of the known pollinators on the islands are ground-nesting

insects (Miller 1985, Miller and Davis 1985). The habitat of these

ground-nesting insects has been and is being degraded by trampling and

serious loss of soils to active erosion on all of the islands

anocarpus conchuliferus) are based upon the

occurrence of fires to promote reproduction and reduce competition with

other species.

Many of the known pollinators on the islands are ground-nesting

insects (Miller 1985, Miller and Davis 1985). The habitat of these

ground-nesting insects has been and is being degraded by trampling and

serious loss of soils to active erosion on all of the islands.

The small numbers of isolated populations and individuals of most

of these taxa increase the potential for extinction from stochastic

events. Five of the proposed taxa, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis,

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,'' Dudleya nesiotica, Gilia hoffmannii,

and Malacothrix indecora, are known from single populations. Six other

proposed taxa, Arabis hoffmannii, Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis,

Castilleja mollis, Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus,

Malacothrix squalida, and Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis, are known

from only two to five populations.

Species with small numbers of populations and individuals are

subject to the threat of stochastic extinction in several ways. First,

the loss of genetic diversity may decrease the species' ability to

maintain fitness within the environment, and is frequently manifested

in depressed reproductive vigor. From the genetic analyses conducted

for the two populations of Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus,

Swenson et al. (in prep.) concluded that the two genotypes represented

in each of the two populations ``probably represent only a portion of

the diversity once present in var

bility to

maintain fitness within the environment, and is frequently manifested

in depressed reproductive vigor. From the genetic analyses conducted

for the two populations of Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus,

Swenson et al. (in prep.) concluded that the two genotypes represented

in each of the two populations ``probably represent only a portion of

the diversity once present in var. nesioticus.'' Elisens (1994)

documented reduced levels of genetic diversity in Galvesia speciosa, a

Channel Islands endemic plant and Category 2 candidate for Federal

listing, and noted that the levels were ``likely the result of

decreased population sizes initiated by human activities and herbivore

introductions.''

Secondly, species with low numbers of populations or individuals

may be subject to forces that affect their ability to complete their

life cycle successfully. Arctostaphylos confertiflora, like a host of

other perennial shrub and tree taxa that are candidates for Federal

listing on the northern Channel Islands, provides an excellent example

of this type of threat. The only remaining individuals of this species

are of moderate to old age, and the establishment of new individuals is

completely lacking. The effects of browsing animals on critical

portions of the species' life cycle has resulted in the inability of

the species to establish new individuals to replenish the population.

The degree of pollination success for manzanita flowers is unknown;

however, the presence of alien grazing and browsing animals has most

likely depressed the number of native pollinators available to the

native plants. Even if pollination occurs and results in successful

fruiting, the fruits are eaten by browsing animals. Even if fruits

escape predation and seeds do germinate, the seedlings are either

trampled or eaten by those same animals. All of the species in this

rule that occur on Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Catalina Islands

are similarly affected

ive pollinators available to the

native plants. Even if pollination occurs and results in successful

fruiting, the fruits are eaten by browsing animals. Even if fruits

escape predation and seeds do germinate, the seedlings are either

trampled or eaten by those same animals. All of the species in this

rule that occur on Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Catalina Islands

are similarly affected.

Thirdly, catastrophic environmental events, such as storms,

drought, fire, or landslides, could destroy a significant percentage of

a species' individuals, or the only known extant population. Arabis

hoffmannii and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus are examples of species that

could sustain losses of individuals and populations through landslides

and soil sloughing as a result of storm events.

In summary, stochastic events can affect species on three different

levels: through loss of genetic diversity, through chance events in

survival and reproduction, and through catastophic environmental

events. When numbers of populations and individuals reach critically

low levels, more than one of the three types of stochastic events may

combine to cause extinction. For instance, a species that has had low

reproductive success due to grazing or browsing pressure during a

critical portion of its life cycle may subsequently be subject to a

severe drought or storm event that eliminates any remaining individuals

or populations. Stochastic extinction constitutes a major threat to all

of the taxa being proposed.

chastic events may

combine to cause extinction. For instance, a species that has had low

reproductive success due to grazing or browsing pressure during a

critical portion of its life cycle may subsequently be subject to a

severe drought or storm event that eliminates any remaining individuals

or populations. Stochastic extinction constitutes a major threat to all

of the taxa being proposed.

The Service has carefully assessed the best scientific and

commercial information available regarding the past, present, and

future threats faced by these taxa in determining to propose this rule.

Based on this evaluation, the preferred action is to propose Arabis

hoffmannii, Arctostaphylos confertiflora, Berberis pinnata ssp.

insularis, Castilleja mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis,

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,'' Dudleya nesiotica, Galium buxifolium,

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii, Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera

maxima, Malacothamnus

fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus, Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix

squalida, Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus as endangered. Threats to the 16 taxa include soil loss,

habitat alteration by mammals alien to the Channel Islands (pigs,

goats, sheep, donkeys, cattle, deer, elk, horses, bison) and direct

predation by these same alien mammals, habitat alteration by native

seabirds, habitat alteration due to vehicular traffic, overcollection

for scientific or horticultural purposes, and competition with alien

plant taxa. The 16 taxa also have an increased vulnerability to

extinction due to reduced genetic viability, depressed reproductive

vigor, and stochastic environmental events resulting from small numbers

of individuals and populations. Because these 16 taxa are in danger of

extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges,

they fit the definition of endangered as defined in the Act

axa. The 16 taxa also have an increased vulnerability to

extinction due to reduced genetic viability, depressed reproductive

vigor, and stochastic environmental events resulting from small numbers

of individuals and populations. Because these 16 taxa are in danger of

extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges,

they fit the definition of endangered as defined in the Act. Critical

habitat is not being proposed for these taxa for reasons discussed in

the ``Critical Habitat'' section of this proposal.

Critical Habitat

Critical habitat is defined by section 3 of the Act as: (i) the

specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at

the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found

those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation

of the species and (II) that may require special management

considerations or protection and; (ii) specific areas outside the

geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed, upon

a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of

the species. ``Conservation'' means the use of all methods and

procedures needed to bring any protected species to the point at which

the measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary (50

CFR 424.02(c)).

Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as amended, and implementing

regulations (50 CFR 424.12) require that, to the maximum extent prudent

and determinable, the Secretary specify critical habitat at the time a

species is proposed for listing. The Service finds that designation of

critical habitat is not prudent for Arabis hoffmannii, Arctostaphylos

confertiflora, Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, Castilleja mollis,

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,''

Dudleya nesiotica, Galium buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii,

Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera maxima, Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp.

nesioticus, Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix squalida, Phacelia

insularis ssp

or Arabis hoffmannii, Arctostaphylos

confertiflora, Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, Castilleja mollis,

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Point,''

Dudleya nesiotica, Galium buxifolium, Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii,

Helianthemum greenei, Heuchera maxima, Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp.

nesioticus, Malacothrix indecora, Malacothrix squalida, Phacelia

insularis ssp. insularis, and Thysanocarpus conchuliferus at this time.

Service regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)) state that designation of

critical habitat is not prudent when one or both of the following

situations exist: (1) the species is threatened by taking or other

human activity, and identification of critical habitat can be expected

to increase the degree of such threat to the species, or (2) such

designation of critical habitat would not be beneficial to the species.

The National Park Service, the Department of Defense, The Nature

Conservancy, and other pertinent parties have been notified of the

location and importance of protecting these species' habitat. Because

protection of these species' habitat will be addressed through the

recovery process and through the section 7 consultation process as a

result of listing these species, there would be little additional

benefit to designating critical habitat. Therefore, the Service finds

that designation of critical habitat for these plants is not prudent at

this time as such designation would provide little additional benefit

beyond that provided through the section 7 consultation process.

Available Conservation Measures

tation process as a

result of listing these species, there would be little additional

benefit to designating critical habitat. Therefore, the Service finds

that designation of critical habitat for these plants is not prudent at

this time as such designation would provide little additional benefit

beyond that provided through the section 7 consultation process.

Available Conservation Measures

Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or

threatened under the Act include recognition, recovery actions,

requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain

practices. Recognition through listing encourages and results in

conservation actions by Federal, State, and private agencies, groups,

and individuals. The Act provides for possible land acquisition and

cooperation with the States and requires that recovery actions be

carried out for all listed species. The protection required of Federal

agencies and the prohibitions against certain activities involving

listed plants are discussed, in part, below.

Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, requires Federal agencies to

evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is proposed or

listed as endangered or threatened and with respect to its critical

habitat, if any is designated. Regulations implementing this

interagency cooperation provision of the Act are codified at 50 CFR

part 402. Section 7(a)(4) requires Federal agencies to confer

informally with the Service on any action that is likely to jeopardize

the continued existence of a proposed species or result in destruction

or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a species is

subsequently listed, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to

ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not

likely to jeopardize the continued existence of such a species or to

destroy or adversely modify its critical habitat

ize

the continued existence of a proposed species or result in destruction

or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a species is

subsequently listed, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to

ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not

likely to jeopardize the continued existence of such a species or to

destroy or adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action

may affect a listed species or its critical habitat, the responsible

Federal agency must enter into formal consultation with the Service.

The Service and NPS have recently agreed to pursue development of a

Conservation Agreement under the Secretary of the Interior's directive

for Federal agencies to cooperate in the conservation of species for

which listing may be appropriate (U.S. Dept. of Interior 1994). The

Conservation Agreement would focus on the prelisting recovery needs of

the other plant and animal candidate taxa from the northern Channel

Islands, such that listing for some of those taxa may be avoided, and

would also serve as a template for the future development of a recovery

strategy for the 16 taxa included in this proposal. In addition, if

threats to these 16 taxa can be reduced or eliminated, final listing of

some or all of the proposed taxa may be precluded.

Of the 16 proposed taxa, all except 3 (Dudleya nesiotica,

Malacothamnus fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus) have populations or historical habitat located on

Federal lands. Three of the taxa (Galium buxifolium, Malacothrix

indecora, and Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis) have populations or

historical habitat on San Miguel Island, which is owned by the Navy and

managed by NPS through a Memorandum of Agreement and Interagency

Agreement

fasciculatus ssp. nesioticus, and Thysanocarpus

conchuliferus) have populations or historical habitat located on

Federal lands. Three of the taxa (Galium buxifolium, Malacothrix

indecora, and Phacelia insularis ssp. insularis) have populations or

historical habitat on San Miguel Island, which is owned by the Navy and

managed by NPS through a Memorandum of Agreement and Interagency

Agreement. Navy activities that could potentially affect these taxa and

their habitats include military exercises and equipment testing and

retrieval carried out under the Executive Order that established the

Pacific Missile Test Center (PMTC) Sea Test Range, which includes

Anacapa, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa Islands

and their environs.

Three of the taxa (Berberis pinnata ssp. insularis, Heuchera

maxima, and Malacothrix squalida) have populations or historical

habitat on Anacapa Island, which is owned and managed by NPS. Eleven of

the 16 taxa have populations or historical habitat on Santa Rosa

Island, which is owned and managed by NPS. Five of those 11 taxa are

single island endemics (Arctostaphylos confertiflora, Castilleja

mollis, Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. insularis, Dudleya sp. nov. ``East

Point,'' Gilia tenuiflora ssp. hoffmannii). NPS activities that could

potentially affect these taxa and their

habitats include specific management plans, including those that

address expansion of park facilities; expansion of visitor services;

range management plans, including those that address cattle ranching

and deer and elk hunting; alien plant removal programs; and other

ecosystem restoration programs. Other activities include the issuing of

permits, including Special Use Permits, that authorize continued

ranching and hunting operations on Santa Rosa Island. Also included are

permits that authorize activities by other agencies or organizations,

including rights-of-way to the Department of Commerce to access

lighthouse and communication facilities

; and other

ecosystem restoration programs. Other activities include the issuing of

permits, including Special Use Permits, that authorize continued

ranching and hunting operations on Santa Rosa Island. Also included are

permits that authorize activities by other agencies or organizations,

including rights-of-way to the Department of Commerce to access

lighthouse and communication facilities. The enabling legislation that

authorized NPS purchase of Santa Rosa Island also provides a mechanism

to ensure protection of the island's natural resources. Sections

202(d)(1) and 202(d)(2) of Title II, Public Law 96-199, state that if

the Secretary of the Interior determines the property is being used for

any purpose that is incompatible with the administration of the park or

with the preservation of its resources, the Secretary shall terminate

the retained right and use of occupancy by the former owner.

As mentioned above, there are four taxa that occur wholly on lands

owned and managed by TNC. Future management of Santa Cruz Island may

involve NPS as a cooperator, since the island is within National Park

boundaries. NPS has already developed a keen interest in the

conservation of the proposed taxa on Santa Cruz Island, and the Service

would anticipate coordination with NPS on issues affecting those taxa.

The Act and its implementing regulations set forth a series of

general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to all endangered

plants. All prohibitions of section 9(a)(2) of the Act, implemented by

50 CFR 17.61, apply. These prohibitions, in part, make it illegal for

any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to import

or export, transport in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of

a commercial activity, sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign

commerce, or remove and reduce the species to possession from areas

under Federal jurisdiction

, implemented by

50 CFR 17.61, apply. These prohibitions, in part, make it illegal for

any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to import

or export, transport in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of

a commercial activity, sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign

commerce, or remove and reduce the species to possession from areas

under Federal jurisdiction. In addition, the Act prohibits the

malicious damage or destruction on areas under Federal jurisdiction and

the removal, cutting, digging up, or damaging or destroying of such

plants in knowing violation of any State law or regulation, including

State criminal trespass law. Certain exceptions to the prohibitions

apply to agents of the Service and State conservation agencies.

It is the policy of the Service, published in the Federal Register,

(59 FR 34272) on July 1, 1994, to identify to the maximum extent

practicable at the time a species is listed those activities that would

or would not be likely to constitute a violation of section 9 of the

Act. The intent of this policy is to clarify the potential impacts of a

species' listing on proposed and ongoing activities within the species'

range. Nine of the 16 taxa in this proposed rule are known to occur on

lands under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service or Department

of Defense; an additional 4 taxa historically occurred on these same

Federal lands, and potential habitat may still exist. Collection,

damage, or destruction of listed species on these lands is prohibited.

However, authorization to incidentally remove or destroy such species

on Federal lands may be granted by the Fish and Wildlife Service for

any otherwise legal action funded, authorized, or implemented by a

Federal agency through section 7 of the Act. The removal and reduction

to possession of listed species on Federal lands for research

activities may be authorized by the Service under section 10(a)(1)(B)

of the Act

incidentally remove or destroy such species

on Federal lands may be granted by the Fish and Wildlife Service for

any otherwise legal action funded, authorized, or implemented by a

Federal agency through section 7 of the Act. The removal and reduction

to possession of listed species on Federal lands for research

activities may be authorized by the Service under section 10(a)(1)(B)

of the Act.

Section 9 of the Act prohibits removal, cutting, digging up,

damaging, or destroying listed species on Federal or non-Federal lands

in knowing violation of any law or regulation of any State or in the

course of any violation of a State criminal trespass law. As an

example, if individuals of a listed plant species were grazed or

trampled by cattle while the livestock was trespassing on either

Federal or non-Federal land, a violation of section 9 may exist.

However, if the livestock grazing occurred under the authority of a

local permit on non-Federal land or under a section 7 consultation on

Federal land, section 9 would not be violated. Questions regarding

whether specific activities would constitute a violation of section 9

should be directed to the Field Supervisor of the Service's Ventura

Field Office (see ADDRESSES section).

The Act and 50 CFR 17.62 and 17.63 also provide for the issuance of

permits to carry out otherwise prohibited activities involving

endangered plants under certain circumstances. Such permits are

available for scientific purposes and to enhance the propagation or

survival of the species. Requests for copies of the regulations

regarding listed species and inquiries about prohibitions and permits

may be addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered

Species Permits, 911 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181

(telephone 503/231-2063, facsimile 503/231-6243).

Public Comments Solicited

entific purposes and to enhance the propagation or

survival of the species. Requests for copies of the regulations

regarding listed species and inquiries about prohibitions and permits

may be addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered

Species Permits, 911 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181

(telephone 503/231-2063, facsimile 503/231-6243).

Public Comments Solicited

The Service intends that any final action resulting from this

proposal will be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore,

comments or suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental

agencies, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested

party concerning this proposed rule are hereby solicited. Comments

particularly are sought concerning:

(1) Biological, commercial trade, or other relevant data concerning

any threat (or lack thereof) to these species;

(2) The location of any additional populations of these species and

the reasons why any habitat should or should not be determined to be

critical habitat as provided by section 4 of the Act;

(3) Additional information concerning the range, distribution, and

population size of these species; and

(4) Current or planned activities in the subject area and their

possible impacts on these species.

Final promulgation of the regulations on these species will take

into consideration the comments and any additional information received

by the Service, and such communications may lead to a final regulation

that differs from this proposal.

The Endangered Species Act provides for a public hearing on this

proposal, if requested. Requests must be received by September 25,

1995. Such requests must be made in writing and addressed to the Field

Office Supervisor of the Ventura Field Office (see ADDRESSES section)

ormation received

by the Service, and such communications may lead to a final regulation

that differs from this proposal.

The Endangered Species Act provides for a public hearing on this

proposal, if requested. Requests must be received by September 25,

1995. Such requests must be made in writing and addressed to the Field

Office Supervisor of the Ventura Field Office (see ADDRESSES section).

National Environmental Policy Act

The Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that Environmental

Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements, as defined under the

authority of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, need not be

prepared in connection with regulations adopted pursuant to section

4(a) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. A notice

outlining the Service's reasons for this determination was published in

the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).

References Cited

A complete list of all references cited herein, as well as others,

is available upon request from the Ventura Field Office (see ADDRESSES

section).

Authors: The primary authors of this proposed rule are Constance

Rutherford and

Tim Thomas, botanists, Ventura Field Office (see ADDRESSES section).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and

recordkeeping requirements, and Transportation.

Proposed Regulations Promulgation

Accordingly, the Service hereby proposes to amend part 17,

subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations,

as set forth below:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

1. The authority citation for Part 17 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C.

4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted.

2. Section 17.12(h) is amended by adding the following, in

alphabetical order under FLOWERING PLANTS, to the List of Endangered

and Threatened Plants to read as follows:

Sec. 17.12 Endangered and threatened plants.

* * * * *

art 17 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C.

4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted.

2. Section 17.12(h) is amended by adding the following, in

alphabetical order under FLOWERING PLANTS, to the List of Endangered

and Threatened Plants to read as follows:

Sec. 17.12 Endangered and threatened plants.

* * * * *

(h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Species

--------------------------------------------------- Historic range Family name Status When listed Critical Special

Scientific name Common name habitat rules

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Flowering Plants

* * * * * * *

Arabis hoffmannii....... Hoffman's rockcress..... U.S.A. (CA)............. Brassicaceae--Mustard.. E NA NA

* * * * * * *

Arctostaphylos Santa Rosa Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Ericaceae--Heath....... E NA NA

confertiflora. manzanita.

* * * * * * *

Berberis pinnata ssp. Island barberry......... U.S.A. (CA)............. Berberidaceae--Barberry E NA NA

insularis.

* * * * * * *

Castilleja mollis....... Soft-leaved Indian U.S.A. (CA)............. Scrophulariaceae E NA NA

paintbrush. Figwort.

* * * * * * *

Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. Santa Rosa Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Crassulaceae--Stonecrop E NA NA

insularis. dudleya.

* * * * * * *

Dudleya sp. nov. ``East Munchkin dudleya........ U.S.A. (CA)............. Crassulaceae--Stonecrop E NA NA

Point''.

* * * * * * *

Dudleya nesiotica....... Santa Cruz Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Crassulaceae--Stonecrop E NA NA

dudleya.

* * * * * * *

Galium buxifolium....... Island bedstraw......... U.S.A. (CA)............. Rubiaceae--Bedstraw.... E NA NA

* * * * * * *

Gilia tenuiflora ssp

. ``East Munchkin dudleya........ U.S.A. (CA)............. Crassulaceae--Stonecrop E NA NA

Point''.

* * * * * * *

Dudleya nesiotica....... Santa Cruz Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Crassulaceae--Stonecrop E NA NA

dudleya.

* * * * * * *

Galium buxifolium....... Island bedstraw......... U.S.A. (CA)............. Rubiaceae--Bedstraw.... E NA NA

* * * * * * *

Gilia tenuiflora ssp. Hoffmann's gilia........ U.S.A. (CA)............. Polemoniaceae--Phlox... E NA NA

hoffmannii.

* * * * * * *

Helianthemum greenei.... Island rush rose........ U.S.A. (CA)............. Cistaceae--Rockrose.... E NA NA

* * * * * * *

Heuchera maxima......... Island alumroot......... U.S.A. (CA)............. Saxifragaceae--Saxifrag E NA NA

e.

* * * * * * *

Malacothamnus Santa Cruz Island bush- U.S.A. (CA)............. Malvaceae-- Mallow..... E NA NA

fasciculatus ssp. mallow.

nesioticus.

* * * * * * *

Malacothrix indecora.... Santa Cruz Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Asteraceae--Aster...... E NA NA

malacothrix.

* * * * * * *

Malacothrix squalida.... Island malacothrix...... U.S.A. (CA)............. Asteraceae--Aster...... E NA NA

* * * * * * *

Phacelia insularis ssp. Island phacelia......... U.S.A. (CA)............. Hydrophyllaceae........ E NA NA

insularis. --Waterleaf............

* * * * * * *

Thysanocarpus Santa Cruz Island U.S.A. (CA)............. Brassicaceae--Mustard.. E NA NA

conchuliferus. lacepod.

* * * * * * *

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Dated: July 7, 1995.

Mollie H. Beattie,

Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.

[FR Doc. 95-18242 Filed 7-24-95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4310-55-P