inventory of important biological resources for the upper...

Inventory of ImportantBiological Resources

for the Upper YellowstoneRiver Watershed

Project prepared by:Montana Natural Heritage Program

Addition scientific and technical advice provided by:Wyoming Natural Diversity Database

Prepared for theEnvironmental Protection Agency

June 2001

Inventory of ImportantBiological Resources

for the Upper YellowstoneRiver Watershed

2001 Montana Natural Heritage ProgramState Library Building • P.O. Box 201800 • 1515 East Sixth Avenue • Helena, MT 59620-1800 • 406-444-3009

US EPA Region VIII(8EPR-EP)

999 18th Street, Suite 500Denver, CO 80202-2466

EPA Ecosystem Protection Grant MM998580-01Regional Geographic Initiative Grant MM998580-02

Jean, C., and S. Crispin. 2001. Inventory of Important Biological Resources in the Upper Yellowstone River Watershed. Report to the Environmental Protection Agency. Montana Natural Heritage Program, Helena Montana. 26 pp. plus appendices.

This document should be cited as follows:

Emigrant Peak, Yellowstone Riverwatercolor by Jim Dushin

For more information contact:

Montana Natural Heritage Program Wyoming Natural Diversity Database1515 6th Ave. University of WyomingPO Box 201800 P.O. Box 3381Helena, MT 59620-1800 Laramie, WY 82071-3381Telephone: (406) 444-3009 Telephone: (307) 766-3023Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: http://nris.state.mt.us/mtnhp/ Web: http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/wyndd/

http://nris.state.mt.us/mtnhp/

http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/wyndd/

i

Executive SummaryThe purpose of this project was to assemble andimprove the quality and accessibility of basicinformation about key biological resources in theUpper Yellowstone Watershed. The watershedwas defined as the headwaters of the YellowstoneRiver extending downstream to the junction of theYellowstone River with the Big Horn River inYellowstone County, Montana. The Clark’s Forkdrainage and the headwaters of the YellowstoneRiver extend into Wyoming.

From the Montana and Wyoming natural heritagedatabases, we assembled a consolidated dataset ofoccurrence records for plant and animal species ofconcern and high quality natural communities in thewatershed. All of the species and natural commu-nities identified in this report, both familiar andobscure, contribute to the biological diversity andsignificance of the Upper Yellowstone watershed.Some have declined greatly and/or are in recovery.Some are unique to the watershed or the immediatevicinity, others are associated with distinctivehabitats that are rare or restricted in distribution; allare potentially at risk from habitat modification andhuman disturbances. Timely knowledge aboutwhere these species and communities occur canprovide opportunities for governments and citizensto make informed decisions about the future of theUpper Yellowstone watershed.

The species and community records assembledfrom the natural heritage programs were used toidentify 79 sites of biological importance. Thesesites support imperiled or rare plants and animals,valuable wetland ecosystems or high quality naturalcommunities, often of relatively restricted ordeclining types. The sites are concentrated onpublic lands managed by the National Park Service,Bureau of Land Management and the US ForestService. In Wyoming, these sites lie entirely onpublic land. In Montana, most of the sites have acore area on federal or state land but may alsoinclude private property; a few sites are largely onprivate property.

For each site identified, we completed a sitedescription that highlights its biological resourcevalues. An ArcExplorer project on CD-ROM,presents the assembled species, including commu-

nity and site information in a series of GIS mapsand associated data tables. This will provideplanners and managers with desktop access toinformation on species of concern and high qualitynatural communities by watershed and at identifiedsignificant sites. The information can be used tohelp determine if planned activities might impactspecies of concern or sensitive ecological areas.When more precise or comprehensive informationis needed, planners can contact the state heritageprograms.

This project highlighted the absence of biologicalinventory date for many areas in the watershed,and the absence of information for any given areacannot be interpreted to indicate the absence ofimportant species or communities. Nor can thisdataset substitute for on-site surveys, which may berequired for environmental assessments. Furtherbiological inventory work focusing on the GreatPlains and other “data gaps,” will be essential toprovide reliable data for planning and resourcemanagement. High priorities for survey includeprairie fishes (some of which are federally listed orcandidates), riparian corridors and wetlands, woodydraws, and major intact grasslands – especially inthe Northern Glaciated Plains (north of the MissouriRiver in northeastern Montana.

This project also highlighted the need for heritageprograms to provide more direct support andassistance to local governments and planners. Thisshould involve clearly identifying the specific needsof local planners, and developing data formats andinteractive, web-based tools that facilitate dataaccess and analysis. Also, to address the increas-ing need for natural heritage data that spans stateboundaries, we strongly recommend the develop-ment of a unified multi-state dataset, in partnershipwith the Association for Biodiversity Information(ABI), which represents the natural heritagenetwork. Several heritage programs in the RockyMountain region have also partnered to begindeveloping direct web-access to integrated heritagedata through a flexible, distributed database model.We urge EPA and other partners to work with andassist the heritage network in achieving these goalsof expanded and more efficient data access, ratherthan assembling data on a watershed by watershedbasis.

ii

AcknowledgementsThis project was funded with the generous supportof the United States Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) Region VIII Ecosystem ProtectionGrant and Regional Geographic Initiative to TheNature Conservancy’s Western Regional Office,the Montana Natural Heritage Program and theWyoming Natural Diversity Database. Thesegrants provided support to improve the quality andquantity of important biological information in theUpper Yellowstone Watershed. The contents ofthis document do not necessarily reflect the viewsand policies of the EPA, nor does mention of tradenames or commercial products constitute endorse-ment or recommendation for use. We extendspecial thanks to Tom Johnson of EPA for hispatient support throughout the duration of thisproject and to Joyce K. Brame, EPA GrantsSpecialist.

The Montana Natural Heritage Program producedthis report. Data records presented in this reportrepresent contributions from many individuals whohave worked in the watershed over the last centuryand deserve a special thanks and recognition. Forthis project, several individuals added new orupdated species and community occurrence infor-mation in the watershed; these people include MarcJones, Peter Lesica, and Jack Greenlee. Thecredibility of heritage data is founded on a strongscience staff. Thanks to botanists Bonnie Heidel

and Walt Fertig, zoologists Paul Hendricks andGary Beauvais and ecologists Marc Jones andGeorge Jones for their contribution to this project.This project received substantial support fromheritage staff: Pete Feigley helped develop the firstiteration of heritage sites in Montana. CedronJones migrated the mapped information into aGeographic Information System (GIS), making thedelivery of this information possible. Joy Lewishelped with editing and publishing. Martin Millerprocessed the element occurrence and site basicrecords. Terrie Kenney helped with data entry andstorage, file organization and report formatting.Laura Welp and Rebekah Smith provided elementoccurrence and site basic records from the Wyo-ming Natural Diversity Database.

Thank you to Katrina Scheuerman, (NRIS) for herhelp in formatting and production and to Jim Dushinfor his original watercolor of Emigrant Peak,Yellowstone River. A huge thank you to MelonyBruhn, MTNHP contract and grants administratorfor the terrific job keeping the project financial andaccounting records. Melony has demonstratedpatience and fortitude beyond the call of duty.

We are also grateful for the kindness of landownersand state land lessee who gave us permission toaccess private property or to gain access to statelands in the watershed.

iii

Table of ContentsIntroduction .......................................................................................................................... 1The Upper Yellowstone Watershed ....................................................................................... 2

Physical Setting ................................................................................................................. 2Vegetation ........................................................................................................................ 4Fauna and Animal Species of Concern .............................................................................. 7Plant Species Of Concern ................................................................................................. 9Cultural Characteristics & Land Use ............................................................................... 11Previous Biological Assessments ..................................................................................... 12

Data Assembly ................................................................................................................... 14Identification of Biologically Important Sites ......................................................................... 15

Yellowstone River Corridor ............................................................................................. 16Wetlands ........................................................................................................................ 16Yellowstone Highlands .................................................................................................... 17Montana High Plains and Foothills and Sedimentary Plains ............................................... 18

Interactive Map Project ...................................................................................................... 18Project Assessment and Recommendations ......................................................................... 20

Spanning political boundaries .......................................................................................... 20Filling data gaps .............................................................................................................. 21Local planning support .................................................................................................... 22

Bibliography ....................................................................................................................... 23

Figure 1. Upper Yellowstone Watershed ……………………………………………………….. 3Figure 2. Ecological Sections in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed………………………….…. 6Figure 3. Land Ownership in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed……………………………….12Figure 4. Important Biological Sites in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed…………………….. 19

Table 1. Upper Yellowstone River Watersheds……………………………………………….... 2Table 2. Plant Species of Global Significance in the upper Yellowstone Watershed……………. 9

AppendicesAppendix A – Plants of Concern in the Upper Yellowstone WatershedAppendix B – Animals of Concern in the Upper Yellowstone WatershedAppendix C – Global and State Rank GuidelinesAppendix D – Plant Associations in the Upper Yellowstone WatershedAppendix E – Site Basic Records

1

Introduction

The Upper Yellowstone Watershed is part of thelargest, relatively intact temperate zone ecosys-tems on the planet, the Greater YellowstoneEcosystem. The watershed supports significantbiological resources, including over 200 plant andanimal species of conservation concern, forestcarnivores, and key home and winter range forlarge mammals like elk (Cervus elaphus), andbison (Bos bison). The Yellowstone River is oneof the longest free-flowing rivers remaining in theUnited States. This area represents one of the lastlarge wild landscapes where natural ecologicalprocesses and disturbances of large magnitude areallowed to operate with minimum human manipu-lation (Little 1990).

The outstanding natural beauty of this area, itsblue-ribbon trout streams and diverse recreationalopportunities have attracted a great deal ofrecreational and residential development. Alreadythe natural values that make the UpperYellowstone so attractive are being affected byactivities such as subdivision on agricultural lands,overuse of water resources, and alteration ofimportant natural habitats by noxious weeds,exotic species, recreation, and mining.The goal of this project was to improve the quality

1 Species of concern are plant or animal species or subspecies identified by heritageprograms as rare, endemic, disjunct, or imperiled at the state or global level.

and accessibility of biological resource informationon the Upper Yellowstone Watershed, which isessential to effective planning and decision-making. Natural Heritage programs are the bestsource of accurate and reliable information onsignificant biological resources, and projects suchas this provide an excellent opportunity for heri-tage staff to deliver information on areas of par-ticular importance. In the course of this project,however, we encountered several issues that needto be addressed through future efforts.

The purpose of this project was to assemble basicinformation about key biological resources fromthe Wyoming Natural Diversity Database andMontana Natural Heritage Program, to improvethe quality and accessibility of this information andto make this information readily accessible toplanners and decision-makers. With financialsupport from the Environmental ProtectionAgency, the Wyoming and Montana heritageprograms reviewed and upgraded their data on theregion, and added new records for federally listedand candidate species, state species of concern1 ,and significant natural communities. Based on thisinformation, biologically important sites are high-lighted and described. These sites support speciesof concern, and rare or high quality wetlands andother natural communities.

Stillwater River Watershed, Stillwater County, MT

2

All of the species and natural communities identi-fied in this report, both familiar and obscure, areimportant to the biological diversity and signifi-cance of the Upper Yellowstone watershed.Some have declined greatly and/or are in recov-ery, some are unique to the watershed or theimmediate vicinity, others are associated withdistinctive habitats that are rare or restricted indistribution; all are potentially at risk from habitatmodification and human disturbances. Timelyknowledge about where these species and com-munities occur can provide opportunities forgovernments and citizens to make informeddecisions about the future of the UpperYellowstone watershed.

The Upper YellowstoneWatershed

Physical Setting

For the purposes of this project, the UpperYellowstone Watershed (Figure 1) was defined asthe headwaters of the Yellowstone River andseveral major tributaries: the Shields, Stillwater,and Clark’s Fork of the Yellowstone River. Itextends downstream to the junction of theYellowstone River with the Big Horn River inYellowstone County, Montana. The Clark’s Forkdrainage and the headwaters of the YellowstoneRiver extend into Wyoming.

The Upper Yellowstone watershed has diversephysiography, climate, and vegetation. It includesportions of four Bailey ecoregion provinces(Figure 2.):• Southern Rocky Mountains Province, repre-

sented by the Yellowstone Highlands Section(including the Yellowstone Volcanic Plateau,Beartooth Front, Beartooth Mountains, andthe Absaroka/Gallatin Mountains Subsec-tions);

• Middle Rocky Mountains Province, repre-sented by the Belt Mountains Section (includ-ing the Crazy Mountains and Central MontanaBroad Valleys Subsections);

• Great Plains-Palouse Province, representedby the Powder River Section (including theMontana High Plains and Foothills and Mon-tana Sedimentary Plains Subsections);

• Intermountain Semi-Desert Province, repre-sented Big Horn Basin and Big Horn Moun-tains Section including the Bighorn Intermont-ane Basin Subsection and by the PryorMountains (Nesser et al. 1997).

The climate of the watershed is largely continentaland can be extremely variable. Strong seasonaldifferences are generated by interactions amongair masses from the northern Pacific Ocean, theGulf of Mexico, and the Arctic, with Gulf systemsdominant in the spring and early summer andArctic air dominant in the winter (Zelt et al. 1999).Climate ranges from cold and moist in the moun-

WATERSHED HUC2 ACRESYellowstone Headwaters 10070001 1,657,554Upper Yellowstone 10070002 1,892,153Shields 10070003 549,896Stillwater 10070005 682,777Upper Yellowstone-Lake Basin 10070004 1,003,190Clark’s Fork Yellowstone 10070006 1,777,238Upper Yellowstone-Pompey’s Pillar 10070007 1,278,717Pryor 10070008 393,449

Table 1. Upper Yellowstone River Watersheds

2 Hydrologic Unit Code

Montana

Wyoming

Upper Yellowstone Watershed Study Area

Upper Yellowstone Watershed

Study Area Vicinity Map

7 0 7 14 21 Miles

1: 1,200,000

N

EW

S

Tera Tech EM Inc.Power Plock Building, Suite 6126th & Last Chance GulchHelena MT 59601(406)442-5588

Map 3/13/01.aprBy John Peterson

Source:Montana Natural Heritage Program andthe Wyoming Natural Diversity Database

Legend

Subwatersheds Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone Lake

River

Montana CountiesWyoming CountiesUpper Yellowstone Watershed

' Towns

State BoundaryInterstate

''

''

'

Livingston

Big Timber

Columbus

Red Lodge

Billings

Carbon

Big Horn

Yellowstone

Stillwater

Sweet Grass

Park

Yellowstone NP

Park County

Gallatin ParkBig Horn

Musselshell

Teton County

.-,90

CLARKS FORK YELLOWSTONE

STILLWATER

UPPER YELLOWSTONE-LAKE BASIN

PRYOR

UPPER YELLOWSTONE

YELLOWSTONE HEADWATERS

SHIELDSUPPER YELLOWSTONE-POMPEYS PILLAR

STILLWATER R

YELLOWSTONE R, CLARKS FK

BOUL

DER

R

YELLOWSTONE R

YELLOWSTONE R

SHIELDS R

.-,94

Yellowstone Lake

Elevation Feet13,000

2,000

6,000

UPPER YELLOWSTONE

UPPER YELLOWSTONE- LAKE BASIN

YELLOWSTONE HEADWATERS

SHIELDS

STILLWATER

CLARKS FORK YELLOWSTONE

PRYOR

UPPER YELLOWSTONE- POMPEYS PILLAR

Subwatersheds

4

tains too temperate and semiarid in the plains (Zeltet al. 1999). Average annual temperatures rangefrom 34ºF at Cooke City to 47ºF at Billings(Western Regional Climate Center 2001). Pre-cipitation varies from 40 to 110 inches per year inthe Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains to 10 to20 inches in the Great Plains, while the aridBighorn Basin, in the rain shadow of the BeartoothMountains, receives only 5 to 12 inches (Nesseret al. 1997). Elevations in the study area rangefrom over 12,000 feet in the Beartooth Mountainsto just over 3,000 feet at Billings in the GreatPlains

The Yellowstone Highlands comprise the moun-tainous portion of the watershed, and include theYellowstone Plateau, the Beartooth Range and theAbsaroka Mountains. The Beartooth Mountainsare a broad, fault-bound uplift of Precambriancrystalline rocks, gneiss, and schist (Zelt et al.1999). The Beartooth Plateau consists of exten-sive alpine areas with many lakes. The AbsarokaRange is a large Tertiary age volcanic field com-posed largely of andesite, dacite, and rhyolite thatwas laid down in volcanic flows and eruptions(Woods et al. 1999, Zelt et al. 1999). The CrazyMountains, which lie north of the YellowstoneHighlands, consist of a core of Tertiary coarse-grained alkaline intrusive rock surrounded by amantle of Quaternary drift and colluvium (Alt andHyndman 1986, Woods et al. 1999). All theseranges were extensively glaciated and are veryrugged. The extent and magnitude ofYellowstone’s geothermal activity affirms that thegeologic landscape in the Upper YellowstoneWatershed is dynamic and rapidly evolving.

The non-mountainous portions of the watershed— the Great Plains and Bighorn Basin — areprimarily underlain with Cretaceous age sedimen-tary rocks, such as sandstone and shale, withlocalized deposits of volcanic debris, as in theCrazy Mountain Basin (Alt and Hyndman 1986).Unconsolidated Quaternary deposits, such asglacial outwash terraces and alluvium are commonalong stream courses.

Vegetation

Alpine tundra is extensive across the BeartoothMountains. The high plateaus and many peakssupport the largest extent of alpine tundra inMontana (Lesica 1993). Associated with thesplendor of the alpine vegetation is the greatestvariety and extent of cryopedogenic featuresobserved anywhere in Wyoming or Montana,including solifluction terraces, sorted nets andstripes, sorted and unsorted polygons, and frosthummocks (Johnson and Billings 1961). Thevegetation on the Line Creek Plateau is moresimilar to the high ranges of Wyoming, Utah, andColorado than any other mountain range in Mon-tana. Line Creek Plateau is a gently rolling alpinetundra landscape with extensive areas of moistsnowbed vegetation. The plateau contains hun-dreds of glacial lakes and potholes althoughwetland features are rare (Lesica 1993).

Vegetation of these alpine environments is charac-terized by turf vegetation dominated by Ross’avens (Geum rossii), curly sedge (Carexrupestris), Bellardi bog sedge (Kobresiamyosauroides) and blackroot sedge (Carexelynoides); cushion plant communities dominatedby curly sedge, moss campion (Silene acaulis),dwarf clover (Trifolium nanum), and twinflowersandwort (Minuartia obtusiloba); and moistgrasslands to wet meadows dominated by tuftedhairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa), alpinebluegrass (Poa alpina), and Parry’s clover(Trifolium parryi). The transition from wetmeadow to marsh and fen is characterized by theincreasing presence of mountain sedge (Carexscopulorum).

Coniferous forests and woodlands dominatemountainous portions of the watershed. In highelevation subalpine forests, principle species arewhitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis), subalpine fir(Abies lasiocarpa), Engelmann spruce (Piceaengelmannii), and lodgepole pine (Pinuscontorta). Whitebark pine is found only in theupper sub-alpine zone and at highest elevations italone dominates a woodland formation, while the

5

other species are important throughout the moun-tainous region. Low and mid elevation montaneareas are dominated by Douglas fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii) and lodgepole pine. Ponderosa pine(Pinus ponderosa) represents the dominant forestand woodland type at lower treeline and oncalcareous substrates limber pine (Pinus flexilis)and Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperusscopulorum) fill this role.

Deciduous forests of aspen (Populustremuloides) or cottonwood (Populusbalsamifera ssp. trichocarpa or P. deltoidesand P. angustifolia) are relatively uncommon butoccur locally in the mid to low montane zonewhere adequate soil moisture is available. Aspenforms large stands on toe slope positions andsubirrigated slopes, especially along the base ofthe Beartooth Front at Grove Creek (east slope)and west of Red Lodge (north slope). Seasonallyflooded aspen stands are restricted to sites satu-rated by seepage from springs or from high streamflow such as below seeps on gentle slopes, wetdraws and flats, and in depressions along streambank terraces. Cottonwood stands occur prima-rily as a riverine or streamside forest. Recentinventory in the watershed for high quality cotton-wood stands (such as those with a well-developednative red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea)understory) or lacking exotic grass species con-cluded high quality condition is very rare (Jones2001). In many cases, the native shrub compo-nent has been converted to an understory domi-nated by exotic pasture grasses or Russian olive(Elaeagnus angustifolia) or noxious weeds(Jones 2001).

Grasslands and shrublands dominate broadvalleys and sedimentary plains. The primaryexception is where ponderosa pine (Pinus ponde-rosa) woodlands are locally abundant on exposedsandstone ridges and benches. Grasslands arecomposed chiefly of Idaho fescue (Festucaidahoensis), bluebunch wheatgrass(Pseudoroegneria spicata) and needle-and-thread (Hesperostipa comata) grasslands. Thesegrassland types were once extensive across the

west (Palouse Prairie on the Columbia Plateau,extending east into the Rocky Mountains andsouth into the Great Basin), but have declinedsignificantly in the last century. In the UpperYellowstone Watershed, native grasslands havebeen lost to agriculture, conversion to ponderosapine woodlands (from fire suppression) or intro-duced species such as Kentucky bluegrass (Poapratensis), timothy (Phleum pratense), smoothbrome (Bromus inermis) or cheat grass (Bromustectorum).

Sagebrush communities typically are found inupland sites such as flat to rolling plains, plateausand hills, benches and terraces above valley floors,alluvial fans and footslopes, mountain parks andridges, as well as well-drained alluvial bottomlands(ABI 2001). Mountain sagebrush (Artemisiatridentata ssp. vaseyana) is found with Idahofescue, bluebunch wheatgrass, or western wheat-grass (Pascopyrum smithii). In the more arid BigHorn Basin, Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisiatridentata ssp. wyomingensis) replaces mountainsagebrush as the dominant sagebrush species.Like the associated grasslands, sagebrush commu-nities have declined from agricultural conversion,range “improvement” practices (Blaisdell et al.1982, Tisdale and Hironaka 1981) and theintroduction of exotic species Blaisdell et al. 1982,Morgan et al. 1994).

The decline of sagebrush is especially so for basinbig sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata spp.tridentata). This sagebrush species grows ondeep, fine- to medium-textured alluvial soils withsome source of subirrigation during the summerseason (ABI 2001); the same soils valued foragriculture. Communities dominated by thisspecies are now relatively rare in the UpperYellowstone Watershed. A few relic stands arefound in the Upper Yellowstone Valley subsection.Black sagebrush / bluebunch wheatgrassshrublands (Artemisia nova / Pseudoreogneriaspicata) grow on calcareous parent material.Good examples of this community are found onlimestone substrates in the Big Horn Basin andUpper Yellowstone Valley subsection.

Montana

Wyoming





''

''

'

Bighorn Basin

Bighorn Mountains

Powder River Basin

Yellowstone Highlands

Overthrust Mountains

Belt Mountains

Yellowstone Lake

YELLOWSTONE R

YELLOWSTONE R

STILLWATER R


BOUL

DER

R

SHIELDS R

Livingston

Big Timber

Columbus

Red Lodge

Billings

.-,90

.-,94

Elevation Feet13,000

2,000

6,000


Ecological Sections of theUpper Yellowstone Watershed

Legend

Sections

Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone Lake

Rivers

Subsections

Upper Yellowstone Watershed' Towns


7 0 7 14 21 Miles

1: 1,200,000

N

EW

S

Bighorn Basin

Bighorn Mountains

Powder River Basin


Overthrust Mountains

Belt Mountains

Sections

7

Wetlands described by Jones (2001) in theUpper Yellowstone Watershed include thoseformed by glacial processes in and near themountains such as cirques, kettle ponds andglaciated valleys with well developed riverinefloodplains and depressional wetlands associatedwith wind-eroded deflation basins (Woods et al.1999, in Jones 2001). Willow shrublands arefound on active floodplain zones of low and highgradient streams and rivers, around beaver ponds,in peatlands, and on the edge of marshes, pot-holes, and lakes. Several non-willow shrublandcommunities are also found in the watershed.Mountain alder (Alnus incana) and water birch(Betula occidentalis) are dominant in springs andseeps and along high gradient streams. Westernsnowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis), silversagebrush (Artemisia cana), chokecherry(Prunus virginiana), and red-osier dogwood arecommon and locally dominant in riverine flood-plains and terraces. Black greasewood(Sarcobatus vermiculatus) is a common domi-nant around alkali lakebeds (Jones 2001).

Native herbaceous emergent vegetation is com-mon in a variety of settings, including peatlands,marshes, potholes, beaver ponds, wet meadows,lake edges, oxbows, and sloughs. Intact wetmeadow communities are still relatively common athigher elevations, however many valley bottomwet meadows that once supported tufted hairgrass(Deschampsia caespitosa) and bluejointreedgrass (Calamagrostis canadensis) communi-ties are now dominated by exotics like redtop(Agrostis scabra), Kentucky bluegrass, smoothbrome, common timothy, and reed canarygrass(Phalaris arundinacea). This conversion hasalso affected western wheatgrass communities onriparian floodplains and terraces (Jones 2001).

Fauna and Animal Species of Concern

The variety of landscapes within the UpperYellowstone Watershed provides habitat for adiverse range of animal species, from terrestrialmollusks to wide-ranging carnivores. Many

people are aware of the abundance of the moreeasily observed and charismatic species such aselk, mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), bighornsheep (Ovis canadensis), and antelope(Antilocapra americana), however these speciesmerely provide a more visible indication of theimportance of the watershed to all animals inhabit-ing this landscape.

Most animal species that could have been foundby Capt. Clark in the early 1800’s are still found inthis watershed. This is because most of thehistorical ecosystem process that resulted in thisdiversity functions today as it did then. Fire andflooding continue to influence the landscape andprovide habitats for species adapted to thesedisturbances. These disturbances, especiallyflooding have been eliminated or reduced in mostother landscapes. The population processes ofimmigration and emigration that influence popula-tion persistence function today for most speciesbecause the landscape is still relatively intact.Wide-ranging animals continue to move betweenpopulations and influence the population dynamicsof local populations that might have been isolatedin a more altered landscape. However, factorswithin the watershed and from the surroundinglandscapes have resulted in some animal speciesneeding special management concern. Thesespecies are presented in Appendix B.

A number of animal species of concern are associ-ated with the coniferous forests, the predominantvegetation type in the watershed. The U.S. Fishand Wildlife Service in the Northern Rockies listthe gray wolf (Canis lupus) as an endangeredspecies and the wolves released into YellowstoneNational Park are considered an experimentalpopulation until the recovery goals are met. Thegrizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) and theNorth American lynx (Lynx canadensis) are listedas threatened species. Other mammal speciesassociated with this habitat and considered speciesof concern by the Montana Natural HeritageProgram, the Montana Department of Fish,Wildlife and Parks and the Wyoming NaturalDiversity Database include the fisher and wolver-

8

ine. All of these species naturally occur at lowdensities or require large areas of habitat andgarner concern because, although large, the UpperYellowstone Watershed may still be too small toensure viable populations of these species by itself.Bird species of concern such as the goshawk(Accipiter gentiles), black-backed woodpecker(Picoides arcticus) and white-winged crossbill(Loxia leucoptera) rely on the large size of therelatively intact landscape and the inherent eco-logical processes to maintain their populationswithin the watershed

The riverine system and associated riparianhabitats in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed arealso important to a variety of animal species ofconcern and supports an outstanding trout fishery.It is obviously vitally important for many fish,reptile and amphibians species. The Yellowstonecutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) isprobably the most notable species of concern inthis habitat type. The sauger (Stizostedioncanadense), a species that inhabits the lowerportion of the watershed, is a recent addition tothe species of special concern list because ofpopulation declines. Numerous other native fishstill maintain healthy populations on theYellowstone River and its tributaries because if thefree flowing nature of the river. Reptiles of con-cern include the snapping turtle (Chelydraserpentina) and spiny softshell (Trionyxspiniferus). Both are directly tied to the riverinesystem in the lower portion of the river. Two

amphibian species of concern, the Columbiaspotted frog the Northern leopard frog, areassociated with riverine or wetland habitats withinthe watershed.

Thirty-one percent of the 35 bird species ofconcern found within the watershed are associatedwith riparian or wetland habitats. The bald eagle(Haliaeetus leucocephalus), which nests in theriparian forests along the major waterways, islisted as a threatened species. Other species ofconcern include the harlequin duck (Histrionicushistrionicus), which breeds along relativelyundisturbed mountainous streams in the upperreaches of the watershed and the redheadedwoodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus),which inhabits large cottonwood forests in thelower portion of the watershed. Most neotropicalmigrants, birds that winter in neotropical areas butmigrate north to nest, also rely on the riparianhabitat within the watershed. As a group,neotropical migrants have become of interestbecause of noted declines in a number of thesespecies. Only one mammal species of concern,the river otter, can be said to depend on thishabitat type.

Many grassland and shrubland species of concerninhabit the uplands of the Upper YellowstoneWatershed. The black-tailed prairie dog(Cynomys ludovicianus) is a candidate speciesfor listing by the USFWS. The UpperYellowstone Watershed also contains a highproportion of the population of free ranging bison(Bos bison). Free ranging bison are now con-strained to Yellowstone National Park but formerlywere the most abundant large ungulate on theplains in the watershed. The mountain plover(Charadrius montanus), which inhabits areaswith very low grass cover, is a proposed threat-ened species. Another bird of recent concernassociated with sagebrush habitats in the water-shed is the greater sage grouse (Centrocercusurophasianus). Two reptile species associatedwith dry habitats are the milk snake(Lampropeltis triangulum) and western hognose

Male Harlequin Duck, photo by Doug Chadwick

9

Table 2. Plant species of global significance in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed

snake (Heterodon nasicus). Both are found inupland areas in the lower portion of the water-shed.

Plant Species Of Concern

Wyoming and Montana Natural Heritage data-bases have records for 155 different plant speciesor subspecies of concern in the UpperYellowstone Watershed (Appendix A). Thirty-four of these are believed to be globally imperiled(G1-G2 / T1-T2) or vulnerable (G3 ). Ranks areexplained in Appendix C. Most of these are localor regional endemics, having most or a majorportion of their total range in this watershed. Theremaining species are considered imperiled orvulnerable at the state level in Wyoming or Mon-tana (S1-S3) and include several disjunct speciesthat have a limited distribution in the RockyMountains. All but 3 of the identified plant speciesof concern are vascular plants, the 3 exceptions

being mosses. This reflects, at least in part,greater effort and knowledge of vascular ascompared to non-vascular plants.

Many of the plant species of concern in the UpperYellowstone watershed are restricted to special-ized, and often highly localized, habitats. Five ofthe seven globally imperiled plants (G/T1 & G/T2)occupy high-elevation (alpine and subalpine)habitats, primarily in the Wyoming portion of theWatershed; about half of their known occurrenceslie within federal Wilderness Areas. Regionallyendemic species whose worldwide distribution isrestricted or nearly restricted to the UpperYellowstone Watershed include the snow paint-brush (Castilleja nivea), fan-leaved fleabane(Erigeron flabellifolius), and tiny swamp saxi-frage (Saxifraga apetala).

Wetland (palustrine and riparian) habitats alsosupport a disproportionate number of the

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMO N NAMEGLOBAL

RANKWY

RANKMT

RANK SIGNIFICANCEWET -LAND

HIGH ELEVATION

Abronia ammophilaYELLOWSTONE SAND VERBENA G1 S1 Near endemic X

Draba pectinipilaCOMB-HAIR WHITLOW-GRASS G1Q S1 Local endemic X

Carex stenoptilaSMALL-WINGED SEDGE G2 S2 S2 Regional endemic X

Penstemon absarokensisABSAROKA BEARDTONGUE G2 S2 Near endemic X

Shoshonea pulvinata SHOSHONEA G2G3 S2 S1 Regional endemic

Silene kingii KING'S CAMPION G2G4Q S2 SU

Castilleja nivea SNOW PAINTBRUSH G3 S2 SU Regional endemic X

Draba crassaTHICK-LEAF WHITLOW-GRASS G3 S2 S3 Regional endemic X

Draba globosa ROCKCRESS DRABA G3 S2 S1 Regional endemic X

Erigeron flabellifoliusFAN-LEAVED FLEABANE G3 S2 S3 Regional endemic

Erigeron radicatusTAPROOTED FLEABANE G3 S1 S3 Disjunct X

10

Table 2. Continued

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMO N NAMEGLOBAL

RANKWY

RANKMT

RANK SIGNIFICANCEWET -LAND

HIGH ELEVATION

Eriogonum brevicaule var canum

RABBIT BUCKWHEAT G3 S2 S3 Regional endemic X

Heterotheca depressaTETON GOLDEN-ASTER G3 S2 SU Regional endemic X

Rorippa calycinaPERSISTENT SEPAL YELLOWCRESS G3 S2S3 S1 Regional endemic X

Thlaspi parviflorumSMALL-FLOWERED PENNYCRESS G3 S3 S2 X

Castilleja crista-galliCOCK'S-COMB PAINTBRUSH G3? S2 SU Regional endemic

Pyrrocoma integrifoliaENTIRE-LEAF GOLDENWEED G3? S1 SU Regional endemic X

Carex nelsonii NELSON'S SEDGE G3G4 S2 SU Regional endemic X X

Erigeron tweedyiTWEEDY FLEABANE G3G4 S2 SR

Castilleja gracillimaSLENDER INDIAN PAINTBRUSH G3G4Q S2 Regional endemic X

Papaver kluanensis ALPINE POPPY G3G4Q S2 S1 Disjunct X

Draba porsildii var brevicula

LITTLE SNOW DRABA G3G4T1 S1 Local endemic X

Draba porsildii var porsildii

PORSILD'S WHITLOW-GRASS G3G4T3T4 S1 S1

Juncus tweedyi TWEEDY'S RUSH G3Q S2 SU Regional endemic X

Saxifraga apetalaTINY SWAMP SAXIFRAGE G3Q S1 S2 Regional endemic X X

Scirpus rollandii ROLLAND BULRUSH G3Q S1 S1 Disjunct X

Arabis williamsii var williamsii

WILLIAM'S ROCKCRESS G3QT3Q S3 SRF Regional endemic X

Ipomopsis spicata ssp robruthii

KIRKPATRICK'S IPOMOPSIS G4?T2 S2 Disjunct

Pyrrocoma carthamoides var subsquarrosum

BEARTOOTH LARGE-FLOWERED GOLDENWEED G4G5T2T3 S2 S2 Regional endemic

Haplopappus macronema var linearis

NARROWLEAF GOLDENWEED G4G5T3 S2 S3 Regional endemic

Townsendia condensata var anomala

NORTH FORK EASTER DAISY G4T2 S2 SRF Near endemic X

Draba fladnizensis var pattersonii

WHITE ARCTIC WHITLOW-GRASS G4T2T3 S2 S1 Regional endemic

Eleocharis flavescens var thermalis

WARM SPRINGS SPIKERUSH G5T2T3Q S2 Regional endemic X

Draba paysonii var paysonii PAYSON'S DRABA G5T3? S2 S3 Regional Endemic X

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watershed’s globally significant plants. The rarestis the Yellowstone sand verbena (Abroniaammophila), which grows only on the shores ofYellowstone Lake. Wetlands support many of theglobally significant plants in this watershed. Im-portant wetland species include Tweedy’s rush(Juncus tweedyi) and Rolland’s scirpus (Scirpusrollandii).

Several regional endemics also occur in thefoothills and montane zones. Two of these areShoshonea (Shoshonea pulvinata) and Beartoothlarge-flowered goldenweed (Pyrrocomacarthamoides var. subsquarrosum), both ofwhich are now better documented in Montana asa result of this study with five element occurrencesbeing updated. The balance of plant species ofconcern in the watershed occupy a variety ofhabitats. A good example is the warm springsspikerush (Eleocharis flavescens var.thermalis), a highly specialized plant that occursonly in geothermal areas of Yellowstone NationalPark.

More extensive information on habitat, elevationand distribution for all of these species is availableon the worldwide web. Montana information isavailable at: http://nris.state.mt.us/mtnhp/plants/index.html. Wyoming information is avail-able at: http://www.uwyo.edu/wyndd.

Cultural Characteristics & Land Use

Population in the watershed is sparse, in mostareas averaging 2-6 persons per square mile. Theexception is Yellowstone County, Montana, whereBillings (Montana’s largest city and the only one ofover 15,000 in the watershed) accounts for anaverage population of nearly 50-persons/sq. mi. inthe county. The region’s population was relativelystable until the 1990’s, but increased between the1990 and 2000 census from 10-11% in Park Co.(MT) and Park Co. (WY) to 27% Stillwater Co.(MT) (U.S. Bureau of the Census, March 2000).Most of the growth is concentrated in the Billingsarea and in desirable recreational/resort areas, the

latter driven primarily by conversion of ranches tolow-density residential use (Zelt et al. 1999).Population of the watershed’s Montana counties isprojected to increase by almost 50,000 persons(29%) by 2025.

Just over half of the Upper Yellowstone Water-shed is in private ownership. Figure 3 shows therelationship of major land ownership types in thewatershed. These proportions vary dramaticallyby sub-watershed; for instance, the Beartooth,Absaroka, and Crazy Mountains contain largeblocks of public lands, mostly in the Gallatin andShoshone National Forests and YellowstoneNational Park. The lower (eastern) portion of thewatershed is overwhelmingly in private ownership;BLM’s holdings are primarily in the lower water-shed and concentrated in the upper Clark’s ForkRiver drainage, as are tribal lands on the CrowReservation. State school trust lands, managed bythe Department of Natural Resources and Con-servation, are interspersed throughout the privatelyowned lands.

Land use varies dramatically between the lowerand upper watershed and by elevation. In thenon-forested eastern portion of the watershed andthe intermountain valleys, grazing and, to a lesserextent, crop production (both dryland and irri-gated) represent the major land uses by acreage.Although overstocking and concentration of stockalong watercourses can impact habitat, grazing isamong the lowest-impact land uses and is impor-tant to the health of grasslands. Habitat loss onrangelands is perhaps most serious where sage-brush has been cleared to increase forage. Inva-sive exotics, such as leafy spurge (Euphorbiaesula), spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa)and cheat grass (Bromus tectorum), also pose aserious threat to both the economic and biologicalhealth of rangelands. Ranches with rangelands areincreasingly being converted to low-densityresidential development, resulting in habitat lossand fragmentation. The bald eagle (Haliaeetusleucocephalus) is especially sensitive to water-shed disturbances that diminish foraging, nestingand roosting sites near riparian areas. Land trusts

http://orion2.nris.state.mt.us/mtnhp/plants/index.html

http://www.uwyo.edu/wyndd/

12

dedicated to open space have secured manyagricultural easements in valley locations helping toprevent habitat fragmentation in the watershed.

Development and intensive human use is concen-trated along rivers, with major impacts on habitatand species diversity. Riparian habitats support adiverse array of species, many of them dependenton riparian or wetland habitats for all or a portionof their habitat requirements. Riparian habitat,especially along the Yellowstone, has also beenheavily impacted by bank hardening, whichsuppresses the flooding required for cottonwoodregeneration. Riparian areas are also particularlysusceptible to invasion by exotic weeds, especiallythose that reply on elevated moisture levels or thatinvade where soils is disturbed. Grazing animalstend to concentrate in riparian areas because ofthe highly productive forage, available water andshade. Recreation activities frequently take placein riparian settings. Grazing animals and humanscan also accidentally spread weeds into riparianareas.

In the south and western-forested portions of thewatershed, dominant land uses are recreation,

forestry, and mining. The principle human impactin forested zones has probably been fire suppres-sion (Arno 2000). Major mining activity is con-centrated at the Stillwater drainage. StillwaterMining Company is the only U.S. producer ofplatinum and palladium, strategic precious metalswith unique physical and chemical properties vitalto modern society. Recreational impacts areconcentrated in areas of higher tourism develop-ment (e.g., near Red Lodge, Gardiner andLivingston), but are also widely dispersed through-out mid and high-elevation areas, where there isextensive camping, fishing, and hiking use. Theseactivities can damage fragile alpine vegetation inareas of heavy use.

Previous Biological Assessments

The headwaters of the Yellowstone River originatein Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872by the United States Congress for it’s outstandingnatural features. The Upper Yellowstone regionhas long been recognized for its exceptionalecological significance and this project is not thefirst to identify the importance or significance ofcertain areas, nor will it be the last. Since the

Private 51%

National Forest25%

National Park12%

BLM4%

Tribes/BIA3%

State, Local, BOR, FWS5%

Figure 3. Land Ownership in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed

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establishment of the park, people continue toshare a vision of integrity for the greaterYellowstone. Here are a few examples:

In 1978, the General Assembly of the UnitedNations Educational, Scientific and CulturalOrganization (UNESCO) approved inscription ofYellowstone National Park as a World HeritageSite. The following criteria for a world HeritageSite is taken from the UNESCO web page at(http://www.unesco.org/whc/heritage.htm). Aworld Heritage Site includes: “natural featuresconsisting of physical and biological formations orgroups of such formations, which are of outstand-ing universal value from the aesthetic or scientificpoint of view; geological and physiographicformations and precisely delineated areas whichconstitute the habitat of threatened species ofanimals and plants of outstanding universal valuefrom the point of view of science or conservation;natural sites or precisely delineated natural areasof outstanding universal value from the point ofview of science, conservation or natural beauty.”

In 1990 the National Park Service designated a20.5-mile reach of the Clark’s Fork YellowstoneRiver (Crandall Creek Bridge downstream to theClarks Fork Canyon) as a Wild and Scenic River.Here the Clark’s Fork flows through a deepcanyon; tumultuous waterfalls, whitewater cas-cades, deep pools, and rugged corridor lands areits unique characteristics. (http://www.nps.gov/rivers/clarksfork.html).

The Forest Service and Bureau of Land Manage-ment have also identified significant ecological sitesin the Upper Yellowstone Watershed. The ForestService has designated one and proposed fourResearch Natural Areas (RNA). Line CreekPlateau was recently established as an RNA(USDA FS 2001). The four proposed RNAsinclude East Fork Mill Creek (pRNA), PassageCreek (pRNA), Sliding Mountain (pRNA) andthe Twin Lakes (pRNA) (http://

rna.nris.state.mt.us.) The Bureau of Land Man-agement designated Meeteetse Spires an Area ofCritical Environmental Concern in 1999 for theareas spectacular limestone cliffs, rare plants andscenic values.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) began workingin the Upper Yellowstone Watershed over twodecades ago. The draft strategic plan for theGreater Yellowstone Bio-reserve Project (TNC,1990) recognized the significance of the ‘GreaterYellowstone’ as more than the aggregation of rarespecies and communities, but as a region withintact (or nearly so) ecological processes. In1991, TNC commissioned a report to identifylandscape Conservation Priorities in the GreaterYellowstone Ecosystem (Noss 1991). Manypriority landscapes were identified in the UpperYellowstone Watershed, the Clark’s Fork, LineCreek and Upper Yellowstone megasites 3 andBald Ridge / Clark’s Fork, Broadwater River,Upper & Lower Deer Creeks, Meeteetse Spires,Swamp Lake, Clay Butte and Pryor Mountainsmicrosites 4 . In 1996 the Montana Field Officeselected the Pryor-Beartooth Site as one of sevenin their statewide conservation plan (TNC,1996a). This important area was further de-scribed in the Northern Bighorn Basin Site Con-servation Plan (Lesica 1998).

In 1996, TNC began an ecoregional approach toconservation to “ensure the long-term survival ofall viable native species and communities throughthe design and conservation of a portfolio ofconservation sites (TNC 1996b). The NatureConservancy chose the U.S. Forest ServiceECOMAP framework as the ecoregion source inthe United States (Bailey 1995; 1998) because ofthe scientific consistency and hierarchy of spatialscales provided by this framework. The UpperYellowstone Watershed intersects four TNCplanning ecoregions; the Northern Great PlainsSteppe TNC 1999), the Middle Rockies-BlueMountains (TNC 2000a), the Wyoming Basin

3 A megasite is an area larger than 200,000 acres identified as a core reserve for biodiversity conservation purposes.4 A microsite is an area less than 150,000 acres identified as a core reserve for biodiversity conservation purposes.

http://www.unesco.org/whc/heritage.htm

http://www.nps.gov/rivers/clarksfork.html

http://www.nps.gov/rivers/clarksfork.html

http://rna.nris.state.mt.us

http://rna.nris.state.mt.us

14

(TNC 2000b) and the Utah - Wyoming Moun-tains (Noss et al. 2001). Ecoregional planningteams use data from the Natural Heritage Pro-grams to identify priority “conservation targets” forthe portfolio. Unlike previous TNC planningefforts, today’s ecoregional plans systematicallyinclude common and widespread natural commu-nity and aquatic types as conservation targets toensure long term viability of the full range ofbiological diversity.

Data Assembly

The first phase of this project involved assemblingdata on the significant biological resources of thewatershed, including plant and animal species ofconcern as well natural features such as birdrookeries, wetlands and natural communities. TheMontana Natural Heritage Program led thiscomponent of the project. Element occurrencedata5 on plant and animal species of concern andnatural plant communities6 comes from newinventory and secondary sources, includingpublications, museum/herbarium records, andbiologists from the private sector, public agencies,and academia. We gathered new records from acombination of published and unpublished reports,field survey forms, agency personnel, and byknowledgeable people in public and privatesector.

Field inventories were conducted to verify andground truth, high priority species groups as wellas natural communities to increase the quality andquantity of the existing heritage data set. A RapidEcological Assessment 7 (REA) was used as a

reconnaissance procedure to quickly fill data gapsand assess an area’s importance and or signifi-cance. This effort focused particularly on theMontana Sedimentary Plains subsection (Nesseret al. 1997) where very little species or communityinformation had been recorded. Special effortwas also given to filling survey gaps and relocatinghistoric records of globally significant species. Allnew occurrence data were assembled and fullyintegrated into the Natural Heritage Databases.

Heritage staff scientists use standardized anddocumented criteria (called element occurrencespecifications) to evaluate, 1) whether an observa-tion represents a valid species or communityrecord (element occurrence), 2) the type ofoccurrence that the record represents (e.g., for abird species, breeding site vs. migratory concen-tration area), and 3) the quality of the occurrence.Specifications have been documented at somelevel for the most highly visible animal species andfor general plant and animal species groups. Inaddition, Jones (2001) developed specificationsfor ranking wetland communities in the watershed.Each occurrence record is mapped and digitizedas a point or polygon feature, and is assigned aprecision code to indicate the degree of locationalaccuracy. Spatial data is subject to quality controlmeasures to ensure its accuracy.

As of February 2001, over 770 records ofspecies of concern and outstanding natural com-munities were documented in the combinedMontana and Wyoming natural heritage dataset forUpper Yellowstone Watershed. These recordsare for species currently tracked in heritage

5 An element occurrence is a location for a species or community tracked by the state heritage program. For plants, an occurrence islocation of a plant population. In some instances, nearby but spatially separated clusters are considered subpopulations and aregrouped as one occurrence. For animals with limited mobility, such as most invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, andmost fish, an occurrence is a location record, assumed to represent a breeding population, based on a specimen collection or of averified sighting. An occurrence for mobile or migratory animals, including most birds, large mammals and some fish is the habitatnecessary to support a population of the species. This may be a breeding area (e.g. nesting territories, dens and leks) or a significantaggregation site (e.g. winter feeding areas, staging grounds or hibernacula).6 An element occurrence of a community is a documented location for a vegetation type. The occurrence may occur as a small to largepatch or within a matrix of other vegetation types. The community is a conceptual grouping of species into associations based onfloristic composition, vegetation structure and environmental characteristics. All plant communities that occur naturally in Montanaare tracked by the MTNHP. However element occurrences are created only for (1) community types that are uncommon or rare or (2)high-quality examples of more common types.7 The Rapid Ecological Assessment is a quick survey method designed to gather natural community information for large landscapeareas or smaller sites.

15

databases. These include 119 new records thatwere added during the course of this project(1997 to 2001), an increase of 15%. Forty-fivepercent of these represent important occurrencesof natural communities. A concurrent wetlandproject (Jones 2001) generated many newrecords for wetland communities in Montana. Theremainder of the new occurrence records, in orderof volume, was for birds, amphibians, and vascularplants. In addition to these new records, 129plant and animal records (17% of the originalrecords) were verified and updated with recentobservation dates, thus increasing the reliability ofthe data. Overall, 38% of the final dataset con-sists of records with observation dates since 1990,53% with observations since 1980. The reliabilityof older records is dependent upon the originalsource of the data and the land use activities in thevicinity of the species occurrence. Records inareas of little ecological change and very lowhuman impact, such as upper watersheds (esp. inwilderness areas) are more likely to persist overtime.

Identification of BiologicallyImportant Sites

Once the biological data were assembled for theUpper Yellowstone Watershed, we identified andrecorded 79 important biological sites8 (Figure4). These sites support rare plants or animals,valuable wetland ecosystems or have rare and orexemplary high quality natural communities.Appendix E is a description of the biologicalvalues present within each site, as well as informa-tion on current land use and management issuessuch as invasive weeds.Biologically important sites are concentrated onpublic lands managed by the National ParkService, Bureau of Land Management and the USForest Service. In Wyoming, sites are entirely onpublic land. In Montana, most sites have a corearea on federal or state land but may also includeprivate property; a few sites are largely on privateproperty. Though these sites are biologicallyimportant due to the species or communities that

Yellowstone River near Pompey’s Pillar

8 A site is an area of ecological or biological significance that is recorded as a Site Basic Record in the state heritage databases. A site’simportance is based upon an assemblage of plant, animal and or community element occurrences. Site boundaries are drawn to capturethese features.

16

they represent, we are not proposing specialdesignation or protection. Our intention is simplyto highlight areas with valuable and often littleknown resources for the benefit of private andpublic land managers.

Very little low elevation area was captured in a siteboundary due to land ownership patterns, e.g.private lands dominate in low elevation habitatsand influence data gathering and analysis. Thisdoes not mean important biological resources areabsent but rather a need exists for more completeinventory. This is particularly important in lowelevation forests, shrub steppe, aspen and riparianareas as these places are at risk from continueddevelopment in the watershed.

We mapped sites as large as 700,000 acres andas small as 10 acres. Some of the sites are nestedone within another, and some lie within areas ofsignificance identified by previous studies. Smallor “local” sites (e.g., wetland complexes) aremapped with more precise boundaries than larger“landscape-scale sites” such as Meeteetse Spiresin the Clark Fork watershed. The Pryor Moun-tains-Line Creek Plateau is a very large “regionalsite” that encompasses the full environmentalgradient from the alpine tundra of the BeartoothMountains to the desert ecosystem of the PryorMountains and Big Horn Basin. Regional sites aremore likely to support intact natural processessuch as species movements and migrations, andnatural fire regimes. Boundaries mapped for verylarge sites are only intended to serve as verygeneral delineations. Selected sites and localitiesare discussed below.

Yellowstone River Corridor

This site includes the Yellowstone River corridorand a 1-kilometer buffer on either side. It crossesthrough three of the six ecological sections repre-sented within the watershed, and has a highlydiverse suite of aquatic, riverine, wetland andterrestrial habitats. The Yellowstone River is freeof the major impoundments that have dramatically

altered the hydrologic regime of most rivers in theWest. Flood events are instrumental in cotton-wood establishment on floodplains. Cottonwoodgallery forests and terraces provide habitat fornesting, wintering and migrating bald eagles(Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and rookery sites forblue heron.

The aquatic environment of the Upper YellowstoneWatershed includes both cold water and warmwater habitats. Cold water environments in theupper watershed support Yellowstone cutthroattrout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri); down-stream, warm water aquatic species include pallidsturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus), paddlefish(Polyodon spathula), blue sucker (Cycleptuselongatus), the sicklefin chub (Hybopsis meeki)and sturgeon chub. Channel gravel and sand barsprovide habitat for spiny softshell (Trionyxspiniferus) and in the past supported persistent-sepal yellowcress (Rorippa calcyina), which hasnot been relocated in recent years. Ripariancommunities support the rare beaked spikerush(Eleocharis rostellata) and Schweinitz flatsedge(Cyperus schweinitzii). A notable shorebird onthis stretch of the Yellowstone is the interior leasttern (Sterna antillarum athalassos). Tworeptiles, the western hognose snake (Heterodonnasicus) and milk snake (Lampropeltistriangulum) have also been reported from theriver corridor.

Wetlands

At the time of this report, 42 ecologically signifi-cant wetlands had been inventoried and describedby Jones (2001). Wetlands were documentedthroughout the study area, but the majority of sitesoccurred in the Beartooth Front. These sitesencompass a wide variety of wetland types,including riverine cottonwood gallery forests,beaver-influenced willow and sedge bottomlands,alkaline lakebeds, glacial potholes, and poor fens.The sites are relatively small, ranging from tens toa few hundred acres in size. Sites range in qualityfrom pristine wetlands of statewide conservation

17

significance to highly impacted wetlands that stillprovide important wildlife habitat.

Of the 42 sites inventoried, 8 were judged to be ofoutstanding quality. These sites have intact hydro-logic regimes, undisturbed uplands, and supporthigh quality native plant communities. Sites includepoor fens, beaver-influenced slope and riverinewetlands, and a lacustrine fringe wetland. Thebeaver-influenced wetlands are exceptionallydiverse and support aquatic communities, sedgemeadows, willow bottoms, stands of cottonwoodand wet aspen, and climax riparian spruce forests.The poor fens, while not as structurally or floristi-cally diverse, are regionally rare wetland types.Chrome Lake is especially interesting, as it is onlythe fourth patterned fen documented from the state(J. S. Shelly, pers. comm.). These sites supportexcellent examples of several G3 and morecommon wetland communities, including beakedsedge (Carex utriculata), Buxbaum’s sedge(Carex buxbaumii), Booth’s willow / bluejointreedgrass (Salix boothii / Calamagrostiscanadensis), planeleaf willow / water sedge(Salix planifolia / Carex aquatilis), and Engel-mann spruce / bluejoint reedgrass (Piceaengelmannii / Calamagrostis canadensis).These sites all occur on private and NationalForest land in the Beartooth Front.


Most of the regional and large landscape sites weidentified are in the Yellowstone Highlands Sectionof the watershed, an area famous for having extantpopulations of wide-ranging forest carnivores.Sites in this section include such areas as theBeartooth Plateau, Absaroka Mountains, LamarValley and Yellowstone Lake. Land ownership isprimarily public with a significant amount managedfor conservation e.g. Yellowstone National Park oras designated Wilderness in the Beartooth –Absoroke Wilderness Area. The importance ofthis wild area to grizzly bears and the gray wolfcannot be overemphasized. These species have

been extripated from nearly all of their historicrange, yet they are still extant in the Yellowstoneregion (Clark et al. 1989). Extensive habitat,isolation from human activities and abundantforage and prey base make this area criticalhabitat for the recovery of the grizzly bear. TheUpper Yellowstone watershed is also importanthabitat for lynx. Dense lodgepole pine forests areavailable for hunting snowshoe hares and higherelevation spruce-fir forests are available fordenning. The higher elevation coniferous forest isalso habitat for the wolverine. In addition, manyheadwater streams have genetically pureYellowstone cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkibouvieri) populations (MRIS 2001). These fishhave adapted to localized conditions in the pastand contribute to the genetic variability that helpsensure long-term adaptation and survival into thefuture.

Many species of arctic plants have disjunctpopulations in the Beartooth Mountains; theseinclude arctic cottongrass (Eriophorum callitrix),a characteristic forb of alpine wetlands andicegrass (Phippsia algida) and island purslane(Koenigia islandica), both of which form veryopen communities on sites with lingering snow. Arare alpine snowbed community, Littleleaf Pussy-toes - Alpine Sagebrush Herbaceous Vegetation(Antennaria microphylla - Artemisiascopulorum), has been described from theeastern edge of the Absaroka Mountains innorthwestern Wyoming. The current high rank(G1Q)9 is based on a very limited known range,only three stands have been documented on onealpine ridge of Carter Mountain in northeasternWyoming. There is some uncertainty about thedistinctness of this vegetation type and additionalfieldwork is needed.

The Beartooth Front encompasses importantaspen parklands. The Beartooth Front – AspenParkland site is located along the strongly tiltednorth slope foothills at the base of the BeartoothPlateau. Vegetation is a mosaic of grass andshrublands with both coniferous and deciduous

9 Rank definitions are in Appendix D.

18

forests. Small to large open park-like meadowsof Idaho fescue – Richardson’s needlegrass(Festuca idahoensis - Stipa richardsonii)herbaceous vegetation are embedded in the forestvegetation. This particular grassland associationoccurs at scattered locations in the mountains ofsouthwestern Montana and in Yellowstone Na-tional Park in northwestern Wyoming. Stands arelocal and infrequent because they are restricted torelatively uncommon topographic and edaphicconditions characterized by gentle terrain withdeep, loamy and mesic soils. This grassland typecan be easily degraded by off-highway vehicles,roads and grazing practices that lead to acceler-ated soil erosion and encroachment of alienincreaser grasses.

A large part of this site lies in state school trustsections, which are leased for grazing and supportactive logging operations. Several noxious weedshave been recorded from state lands by MontanaDivision of Natural Resources and Conservation(DNRC) during range allotment allotments. Theseweeds Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), knap-weed (Centaurea ssp.) and leafy spurge (Eu-phorbia esula). Two introduced grasses, Phleumpratense and Poa pratensis are abundant in themeadow and aspen communities.

Aspen parklands contribute to the diverse compo-sition and structure of vegetation on the BeartoothFront. The interspersed spatial pattern of aspenmakes these habitats very important for somewildlife species (DeByle 1985). An undergrowthrich in forbs and grasses provides valuable habitatfor small seed eating mammals such as voles,which are in turn an important prey base for owlsand other predatory birds. Because aspen issusceptible to heart rot disease, the punky interiorsof these trees are readily excavated by cavitynesters, such as woodpeckers. In mixed aspen-confier forests, the aspen component is probablyessential for some of the cavity nesting birds(DeByle 1985). Aspen is also a highly importantbrowse species, with young suckers and budsfavored by elk, deer, and moose (Alces alces).

Montana High Plains and Foothills andSedimentary Plains

In the Montana Sedimentary Plains Subsection,Pine Ridge was highlighted for it’s intact naturallandscape with an extensive representation ofponderosa pine / bluebunch wheatgrass wood-lands (Pinus ponderosa / Pseudoroegneriaspicata. This ponderosa pine woodland is foundon sandstone ridge outcrops, benches and couleeslopes and is one of the drier ponderosa pinewoodlands found in the northern Rocky Moun-tains, Inter-Mountains, and extreme northwesternGreat Plains of the United States and Canada.

In the Montana High Plains and Foothills subsec-tion, we identified Hailstone and Half-breedNational Wildlife Refuges and Big Lake as impor-tant biological sites. These are large, shallowbrackish lakes in the Lake Basin area of centralMontana. The closed basin (a relatively uncom-mon geomorphological feature), coupled with soilsweathered from a substrate high in clays and oflow permeability, has created a condition promot-ing intermittent flooding, salt accumulation, andponding of water. The large complex of wetlandsand their abundance of sago pondweed(Stuckenia pectinata) are significant for springwaterfowl migration. The black-necked stilt(Himantopus mexicanus) is recorded from thelake area. The burrowing owl (Athenecunicularia) and black-tailed prairie dog(Cynomys ludovicianus) are located in theadjacent uplands. The core of these sites lie onFWS and State Lands.

Interactive Map Project

In addition to this report, we developed anArcExplorer10 GIS project that displays, bysubwatershed (HUC 11) and by site, all thedatabase records assembled for species of con-cern and high quality natural communities. Itillustrates important watersheds and areas of

10 ArcExplorerTM is a geographic data explorer developed by Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ERSI).

$T

$T

$T

$T

$T

$T$T $T$T$T $T $T $T$T

$T$T $T$T $T$T $T$T $T$T$T$T $T

$T $T $T

$T

''

''

'

YELLOWSTONE R

YELLOWSTONE R

STILLWATER R


BOUL

DER

R

SHIELDS R

Yellowstone Lake

CarbonBig Horn

Yellowstone

Stillwater

Sweet Grass

Park

Yellowstone NP

Gallatin ParkBig Horn

Musselshell

Park County

Teton County

Livingston

Big Timber

Columbus

Red Lodge

Billings

.-,90

.-,94




Legend

7 0 7 14 21 Miles

1: 1,200,000

N

EW

S


Sites

Montana

Wyoming


Regional_sitesLandscape_sitesLocal_sitesMontana CountiesWyoming CountiesYellowstone National ParkUpper Yellowstone Watershed

$T Landscape Point Sites$T Local Point Sites

Yellowstone Lake' Towns


20

Diversity Database should be contacted directlyfor updates in that portion of the watershed.There are no plans to maintain an up-to-datedataset that combines data from Montana andWyoming for the watershed. However the Asso-ciation for Biodiversity Information11 has begundeveloping a multi-jurisdictional heritage datasetfor North America, with web-based access as alonger-term objective.

Project Assessment andRecommendations

The goal of this project was to improve the qualityand accessibility of biological resource informationon the Upper Yellowstone Watershed, which isessential to effective planning and decision-making. Natural Heritage programs are the bestsource of accurate and reliable information onsignificant biological resources, and projects suchas this provide an excellent opportunity for heri-tage staff to deliver information on areas of par-ticular importance. In the course of this project,however, we encountered several issues that needto be addressed through future efforts.

Spanning political boundaries

Increasingly, conservation planning is done at largescales, with a focus on ecological rather thanpolitically-based planning units. This makes sensewith respect to species and ecosystems, whichdon’t follow political boundaries. However, itposes significant challenges for assembling Heri-tage data, because Heritage Programs operate atthe state level. Although Heritage data is collectedand managed using a standardized methodology(the great strength of the Heritage network), eachprogram has variations in approach, databasecustomizations, and different emphases in theirdata collection. This produces datasets that, while

biological significance in a series of GIS maps andassociated data tables, and is available on CD-ROM (with metadata). In consideration of thesensitive nature of some species of concern andfor the concerns of private landowners on whoseproperties they may occur, exact locations havenot been provided.

Planners, managers and other decision-makerscan use the interactive format to query theArcExplorer for high quality wetland, riparian,terrestrial communities and species of concern inany watershed or identified site in the UpperYellowstone Watershed. The information canserve as a first step in identifying species ofconcern or sensitive ecological areas that might beaffected by land development or managementactivities. When more precise or comprehensiveinformation is needed for specific projects orplanning initiatives, the state Heritage programscan be contacted for assistance (see page i).

Users should keep in mind that this informationreflects only what is known about the watershed,and an absence of information for any given areadoes not mean that species of concern or sensitiveareas do not exist there. Many parts of thewatershed have not been inventoried, and this dataset is not intended as a definitive informationsource or as a substitute for on-site surveys, whichmay be required for environmental assessments.

The Natural Heritage databases are being continu-ously updated with new information on speciesand communities. Data summarized in this reportand on the CD-ROM ArcExplorer have a shortshelf life; the data is accurate and current forapproximately one year from publication. Beyondthat, users should go to the MTNHP web page,where interactive search tools will soon be avail-able to obtain current information on the Montanaportion of the watershed. The Wyoming Natural

11 The Association for Biodiversity Information (ABI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing and providing informationabout the world’s plants, animals, and ecological communities. ABI works in partnership with 85 independent Natural Heritageprograms and Conservation Data Centers that gather scientific information on rare species and ecosystems in the United States, LatinAmerica, and Canada (the Natural Heritage Network).

21

similar and complementary, don’t “match up”precisely across political boundaries and requiresignificant effort to synthesize, normalize, andeffectively interpret.

For instance, the Wyoming Natural DiversityDatabase manages site records only on publiclands, while the Montana Heritage Program sitescovers both public and private lands. In addition,the Wyoming program tracks some species as rarethat have not been considered rare in Montana(and thus not tracked), and vice-versa. Wyomingheritage biologists felt that most of the watershedin Wyoming had been adequately surveyed forbiologically significant species and sites; this wasclearly not the case for Montana. Reconcilingthese differences refines, enhances, and helpsquality-control both datasets, but it also takes agood deal of time. As a result, it is not efficient todo this repeatedly on a small scale – e.g., water-shed-by-watershed.

Heritage programs have for some time recognizedthe efficiency of creating a single “multi-jurisdic-tional” dataset, and collectively formed the Asso-ciation for Biodiversity Information to begin themajor challenge of assembling and maintaining asynthesized heritage dataset for North America, inpartnership with the heritage network. In thefuture, we recommend that EPA and other part-ners work with ABI in support of that effort, ratherthan continue to invest in smaller-scale dataassembly projects.

Filling data gaps

As noted previously, data gaps in the UpperYellowstone watershed posed a serious challengefor this project. Datasets with major data gapscan be misleading to the user (seeming to implyabsence of significance where data is lacking), andproviding them as a “finished product” can actuallymask the need for inventory work.This project revealed a particular lack of biologicalsurvey data for the Montana Sedimentary Plains

subsection (Nesser et al., 1997). Historically, theGreat Plains portion of the Yellowstone andMissouri watersheds have received far lessattention in terms of biological inventory andconservation assessment. Interest in and need forthat information is growing because of species likethe prairie dog and sage grouse, as well as manyless conspicuous but no less important species thatare only beginning to emerge “on the radarscreen”. Because all these species are dependenton the large landscape ecosystems and processesof the Great Plains, good data on those species’status, distribution and ecology will be needed notonly to address their needs, but to do it efficientlyat an ecosystem level, rather than species byspecies.

Our Rapid Ecological Assessment 12 (REA)procedure helped to provide a landscape-leveloverview of ecological integrity – e.g., confirmingthat ponderosa pine-dominated sandstonebenches and plateaus of the Sedimentary Plainsare relatively intact compared to the surroundinggrasslands, which have been modified by agricul-ture. However, the REA does not provide enoughdetail to document, in the Heritage databases,specific features or sites of biological importancein the large landscape areas that are identified.The REA is most effective as a first step, to helpprioritize areas for more detailed assessment anddocumentation, with follow-up survey during thefollowing field season. Using the REA to “pre-select” inventory sites can also provide time toidentify private landowners and seek permissionfor access to conduct inventory. Because we didnot have time to contact landowners of REA-identified landscapes and then follow up with on-site inventory, our detailed surveys were largelyconfined to publicly-owned lands.

Further biological inventory work, focusing on theGreat Plains and other “data gaps,” will be criticalto providing a reliable foundation for planning andresource management. Species and communitiesof particular significance for “gap-filling” include

12 The Rapid Ecological Assessment is a field survey method designed to quickly gather natural community information for large landscape areas or smaller sites.

22

prairie fishes (some of which are federally listed orcandidates), riparian corridors and wetlands,woody draws, and major intact grasslands –especially in the Northern Glaciated Plains (northof the Missouri River in northeastern Montana.

Local planning support

Finally, additional attention should be devoted todelivering biological information to planners andhelping them use it effectively. While we hope thatthis project is a step in the right direction, we canidentify two areas that would improve planners’ability to access and apply this information todecision-making. One is to provide more hands-on staff support to planners and planning efforts.Our efforts were spent primarily in-house on dataassembly and analysis, but there is a real need andopportunity to work more directly with planners,resource managers and extension agents in apply-ing heritage data. In doing so, we would also

learn more about their specific needs and how tomake biological information more accessible anduseful to them.

We also need to take advantage of new technolo-gies to deliver and apply Heritage data. Althoughwe took advantage of GIS capabilities for deliver-ing and displaying spatial data, continuing to createstand-alone GIS projects for selected study areasis not the best strategy. It would be far moreefficient and effective to develop real-time dataaccess and interactive analysis tools that apply to arange of different geographic areas and questions.The Montana Natural Heritage Program hasbegun to explore these opportunities, working withABI and other Heritage Programs in the RockyMountain region, and would like to expand ourpartnerships with federal and state agencies andothers to create Web-enabled data delivery andanalysis capabilities.

23

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SCIENTIFIC NAME CO MMON NAMEUS-ESA GRANK WY RANK MT RANK

Abronia ammophilaYELLOWSTONE SAND VERBENA G1 S1

Adoxa moschatellina MUSK-ROOT G5 S1 S2Agoseris lackschewitzii PINK AGOSERIS G4 S3 S3Agrostis oregonensis OREGON BENTGRASS G4 S1 SRAmerorchis rotundifolia ROUND-LEAVED ORCHID G5 S1 S2S3Androsace chamaejasme ssp carinata

SWEET-FLOWERED ROCK JASMINE G5T4 S1S2

Antennaria aromatica AROMATIC PUSSYTOES G4 S2S3 S3S4Antennaria flagellaris STOLONIFEROUS G5? S1Antennaria monocephala SINGLE-HEAD PUSSYTOES G4G5 S1 SRAquilegia formosa var CRIMSON COLUMBINE G5T5 S1 S2Arabis williamsii var WILLIAM'S ROCKCRESS G3QT3Q S3 SRFArctostaphylos rubra RED MANZANITA G5 S1Asclepias incarnata SWAMP MILKWEED G5 S2 S1Aster scopulorum LAVA ASTER G5 S1 SRAstragalus grayi GRAY'S MILKVETCH G4? S3 S2Atriplex truncata WEDGE-LEAVED G5 S2 S1Botrychium virginianum RATTLESNAKE FERN G5 S1 SRCamissonia andina OBSCURE EVENING- G4 S2 S1Carex concinna BEAUTIFUL SEDGE G4G5 S1 SRCarex cusickii CUSICK'S SEDGE G5 S1 SRCarex diandra LESSER PANICLED SEDGE G5 S2 SRCarex leptalea BRISTLY-STALK SEDGE G5 S2 S3S4Carex limosa MUD SEDGE G5 S2 SRCarex livida LIVID SEDGE G5 S1 S3Carex microglochin FALSE UNCINIA SEDGE G5? S1 SUCarex misandra SHORT-LEAF SEDGE G5 S1 S3Carex multicostata MANY-RIBBED SEDGE G5 S1Carex nelsonii NELSON'S SEDGE G3G4 S2 SUCarex norvegica ssp inserrulata

TOOTHED SCANDINAVIAN SEDGE G5T?Q S2 S1

Carex preslii PRESL SEDGE G4 S1 SRCarex scirpoidea var scirpiformis

CANADIAN SINGLE-SPIKE SEDGE G5T4Q S1

Carex stenoptila SMALL-WINGED SEDGE G2 S2 S2Carex tincta SLENDER SEDGE G4G5 SUCastilleja crista-galli COCK'S-COMB G3? S2 SUCastilleja exilis ANNUAL INDIAN G5 S2 S2Castilleja gracillima SLENDER INDIAN G3G4Q S2Castilleja nivea SNOW PAINTBRUSH G3 S2 SUCirsium canovirens GRAY-GREEN THISTLE G4G5 SH SRCirsium foliosum LEAFY THISTLE G5 S1 SRCleome lutea YELLOW BEE PLANT G5 S3 S1Crassula aquatica PYGMYWEED G5 S1 SUCryptogramma stelleri FRAGILE ROCKBRAKE G5 S1 SR

Cypripedium parviflorumSMALL YELLOW LADY'S-SLIPPER G5 S3

Dicranoweisia cirrata FINE ROLLED-LEAF MOSS G4 S1Deschampsia ANNUAL HAIRGRASS G5 S1 SRDraba borealis BOREAL DRABA G4 S2

Appendix APlants of Concern in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed

28

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMO N NAMEUS-ESA GRANK WY RANK MT RANK

Draba crassaTHICK-LEAF WHITLOW-GRASS G3 S2 S3

Draba densifolia DENSE-LEAF DRABA G5 S2 S2Draba fladnizensis var pattersonii

WHITE ARCTIC WHITLOW-GRASS G4T2T3 S2 S1

Draba glabella ROCK WHITLOW-GRASS G4G5 S1 SRDraba globosa ROCKCRESS DRABA G3 S2 S1Draba paysonii var PAYSON'S DRABA G5T3? S2 S3

Draba pectinipilaCOMB-HAIR WHITLOW-GRASS G1Q S1

Draba porsildii var LITTLE SNOW DRABA G3G4T1 S1Draba porsildii var porsildii

PORSILD'S WHITLOW-GRASS G3G4T3T4 S1 S1

Drosera anglica ENGLISH SUNDEW G5 S2 S2Dryopteris expansa SPREADING WOODFERN G5 S1 SREleocharis flavescens var WARM SPRINGS G5T2T3Q S2Eleocharis rostellata BEAKED SPIKERUSH G5 S2 S2Elodea longivaginata LONG SHEATH G4G5 S2Epipactis gigantea GIANT HELLEBORINE G4 S1 S2Equisetum fluviatile WATER HORSETAIL G5 S1 S4Erigeron eatonii ssp eatonii EATON'S DAISY G5T5 S3 S1Erigeron flabellifolius FAN-LEAVED FLEABANE G3 S2 S3Erigeron formosissimus var BEAUTIFUL FLEABANE G5T4 S2 S1Erigeron humilis LOW FLEABANE G4 S2 S3Erigeron linearis LINEARLEAF FLEABANE G5 S2 S1Erigeron radicatus TAPROOTED FLEABANE G3 S1 S3Erigeron tweedyi TWEEDY FLEABANE G3G4 S2 SREriogonum brevicaule var RABBIT BUCKWHEAT G3 S2 S3Eriophorum callitrix var SHEATHED COTTON- G5T? S1 S1Eriophorum chamissonis RUSSET COTTON-GRASS G5 S1 SR

Eriophorum gracile SLENDER COTTON-GRASS G5 S1 S2Eriophorum viridicarinatum

GREEN KEELED COTTON-GRASS G5 S1 S3

Eritrichium howardiiHOWARD FORGET-ME-NOT G4 S1 SU

Eupatorium maculatum JOE-PYE WEED G5TU S2 S2Festuca hallii HALL'S FESCUE G4 S1Gentianopsis simplex HIKER'S GENTIAN G4 S1 S1Gnaphalium microcephalum var therma WHITE CUDWEED G5T4Q S1

Gratiola ebracteataBRACTLESS HEDGE-HYSSOP G4 S1

Grayia spinosa SPINY HOPSAGE G5 S3 S2Haplopappus macronema var linearis

NARROWLEAF GOLDENWEED G4G5T3 S2 S3

Hemicarpha drummondii DRUMMOND'S G4G5 S1 SHHeterotheca depressa TETON GOLDEN-ASTER G3 S2 SUHorkelia fusca var PINE WOODS HORKELIA G5T? SHHutchinsia procumbens HUTCHINSIA G5 S2 S1Ipomopsis spicata ssp robruthii

KIRKPATRICK'S IPOMOPSIS G4?T2 S2

29

SCIENTIFIC NAME CO MMON NAMEUS-ESA GRANK WY RANK MT RANK

Isoetes occidentalis WESTERN QUILLWORT G4G5 S1 SRJuncus albescens THREE-FLOWERED RUSH G5 S2 S2Juncus filiformis THREAD RUSH G5 S1 SRJuncus triglumis THREE-FLOWERED RUSH G5 S2 SUJuncus triglumis var triglumis THREE-FLOWER RUSH G5T5 S1Juncus tweedyi TWEEDY'S RUSH G3Q S2 SUKobresia macrocarpa LARGE-FRUITED G5 S1Kobresia schoenoides SIBERIAN KOBRESIA G5 S1 S1Kobresia simpliciuscula SIMPLE KOBRESIA G5 S1 S2Koenigia islandica ISLAND KOENIGIA G4 S1 S1Luzula glabrata var SMOOTH WOOD-RUSH G5T4 S1Meesia triquetra LONG-STALKED SWAN G5 S2Mentzelia pumila DWARF MENTZELIA G4 S2S3 S2

Mimulus rubellusCILIOLATE-TOOTHED MONKEY-FLOWER G5 S1

Muhlenbergia glomerata MARSH MUHLY G5 S1 SR

Paludella squarrosaCOMMON COLD-WETLAND MOSS G3G5 S1

Papaver kluanensis ALPINE POPPY G3G4Q S2 S1Parrya nudicaulis NAKED-STEMMED G5 S2Pedicularis oederi OEDER'S LOUSEWORT G5 S1 S3Penstemon absarokensis ABSAROKA G2 S2Phippsia algida ICE GRASS G5 S1 S2Polemonium micranthum ANNUAL POLEMONIUM G5 SH SRPolygonum douglasii ssp AUSTIN'S KNOTWEED G5T4 S2 S2S3Potamogeton praelongus WHITE-STEM PONDWEED G5 S1 SRPotentilla hyparctica LOW ARCTIC G4G5 S1 S1Potentilla quinquefolia FIVE-LEAF CINQUEFOIL G5T4 S2Potentilla uniflora ONE-FLOWERED G5 S1 S1Primula egaliksensis GREENLAND PRIMROSE G4 S1Primula incana MEALY PRIMROSE G4G5 S2 S2Pyrrocoma carthamoides var subsquarrosum

BEARTOOTH LARGE-FLOWERED G4G5T2T3 S2 S2

Pyrrocoma integrifolia ENTIRE-LEAF G3? S1 SURanunculus gelidus (syn. Ranunculus verecundus) ARCTIC BUTTERCUP G4 S1 S1Ranunculus jovis JOVE'S BUTTERCUP G4 S2 S2Ranunculus verecundus (syn. Ranunculus gelidus) TIMBERLINE BUTTERCUP G5 S1 S2

Rorippa calycinaPERSISTENT SEPAL YELLOWCRESS G3 S2S3 S1

Salix barrattiana BARRATT'S WILLOW G5 S1 S1Salix candida HOARY WILLOW G5 S2 S3S4Salix myrtillifolia var MYRTLELEAF WILLOW G5T5 S1Sanicula graveolens SIERRA SANICLE G4 S1 SRSaxifraga apetala TINY SWAMP SAXIFRAGE G3Q S1 S2Saxifraga chrysantha GOLDEN SAXIFRAGE G4 S1 SU

30

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMO N NAMEUS-ESA GRANK WY RANK MT RANK

Saxifraga hirculusYELLOW MARSH SAXIFRAGE G5 S1

Scirpus atrocinctus BLACK-GIRDLE BULRUSH G5 S1Scirpus rollandii ROLLAND BULRUSH G3Q S1 S1Scolochloa festucacea SPRANGLE-TOP G5 S1 SRSedum stenopetalum NARROW-PETAL G4G5 S1 SRSelaginella selaginoides LOW SPIKE-MOSS G5 S1 S2Selaginella watsonii WATSON'S SPIKE-MOSS G4 S1 S3Senecio amplectens var CLASPING GROUNDSEL G4T? S3 S1Senecio eremophilus var eremophilus CUT-LEAVED GROUNDSEL G5T5 S1Senecio indecorus PLAINS RAGWORT G5 S1 SRSenecio megacephalus BIG-HEADED GROUNDSEL G4? SH S3Shoshonea pulvinata SHOSHONEA G2G3 S2 S1Silene kingii KING'S CAMPION G2G4Q S2 SUSolidago sparsiflora FEW-FLOWERED G5? S3 S1Sparganium minimum SMALL BUR-REED G5 S1 SRStellaria crassifolia FLESHY STITCHWORT G5 S2 S1Stellaria crispa CRIMPED STITCHWORT G5 S1 SRStipa lettermanii LETTERMAN'S G5 S3S4 S1

Taraxacum eriophorumROCKY MOUNTAIN DANDELION G4 S2 S2

Thlaspi parviflorumSMALL-FLOWERED PENNYCRESS G3 S3 S2

Townsendia condensata CUSHION TOWNSENDIA G4 S2 S2Townsendia condensata var anomala

NORTH FORK EASTER DAISY G4T2 S2 SRF

Townsendia leptotes COMMON EASTER-DAISY G4 S1 SUTriteleia grandiflora LARGE-FLOWER G4 S1 SRUtricularia minor LESSER BLADDERWORT G5 S1S2 SRVaccinium myrtillus var DWARF BILBERRY G5T? S1

Veratrum californicumCALIFORNIA FALSE-HELLEBORE G5 S2 S1

Viburnum edule SQUASHBERRY G5 S1 SR

31

SCIENTIFIC NAME CO MMON NAMEUS-ESA

G RANK WY RANK MT RANK

Bufo boreas (N. Rocky Mt) WESTERN BOREAL TOAD G4T4 S2 S3S4Bufo cognatus GREAT PLAINS TOAD G5 S3 S3S4Rana luteiventris COLUMBIA SPOTTED FROG G4 S2S3 S4Rana pipiens NORTHERN LEOPARD FROG G5 S3 S3S4Spea bombifrons PLAINS SPADEFOOT TOAD G5 S3

Accipiter gentilis NORTHERN GOSHAWK G5 S2S3B S3S4Aegolius funereus BOREAL OWL G5 S2 S4Amphispiza belli SAGE SPARROW G5 S3B, SZN S1B,SZNAthene cunicularia BURROWING OWL G4 S3B,SZN S3B,SZNBartramia longicauda UPLAND SANDPIPER G5 S3B,SZN S4B,SZNButeo regalis FERRUGINOUS HAWK G4 S3B, S3N S3B,SZNCalcarius mccownii MCCOWN'S LONGSPUR G5 S3B,SZN S4B,SZNCentrocercus urophasianus GREATER SAGE-GROUSE G4 S3 S4Charadrius montanus MOUNTAIN PLOVER PT 1 G2 S2B,SZN S2B,SZNChlidonias niger BLACK TERN G4 S1B,SZN S3B,SZNCoccyzus erythropthalmus BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO G5 S2B,SZN S4B,SZNCygnus buccinator TRUMPETER SWAN G4 S1B S2B,S2NFalco columbarius MERLIN G5 S2B,SZN S4Falco peregrinus PEREGRINE FALCON G4 S1B,S3N S1S2B,SZNGavia immer COMMON LOON G5 S2B,SZN S2B,SZNHaliaeetus leucocephalus BALD EAGLE LT 2 G4 S2B S3B,S3NHistrionicus histrionicus HARLEQUIN DUCK G4 S1B,SZ?N S2B,SZNLarus californicus CALIFORNIA GULL G5 S2?B,SZN S5B,SZNLarus delawarensis RING-BILLED GULL G5 S1B S5B,SZNLeucosticte atrata BLACK ROSY-FINCH G4 S3B, S3N S3Loxia leucoptera WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILL G5 S1B,S2N S4Melanerpes erythrocephalus RED-HEADED WOODPECKER G5 S3B, SZN S3S4B,SZNMelanerpes lewis LEWIS' WOODPECKER G5 S2B,SZN S4B,SZNNumenius americanus LONG-BILLED CURLEW G5 S3B,SZN S4B,SZN

Nycticorax nycticoraxBLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON G5 S3B, SZN S2S3

Pandion haliaetus OSPREY G5 S3B,SZN S5B,SZNPelecanus erythrorhynchos AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN G3 S1B,SZN S2B,SZNPhalaropus tricolor WILSON'S PHALAROPE G5 S3B,S3N S4B,SZN

Picoides arcticusBLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER G5 S2 S3

Polioptila caerulea BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER G5 S3?B,SZN S1B,SZNSpizella breweri BREWER'S SPARROW G5 S3B,SZN S4B,SZNSterna caspia CASPIAN TERN G5 S1B,SZN S2B,SZNStrix nebulosa GREAT GRAY OWL G5 S2 S3Tyrannus vociferans CASSINS KINGBIRD G5 S3B, SZN S1S3Tyto alba BARN OWL G5 S1B, SZ?N S1B,S1N

Amphibian

Bird

Appendix B.Animals of Concern in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed

32

SCIENTIFIC NAME CO MMON NAMEUS-ESA

G RANK WY RANK MT RANK

Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieriYELLOWSTONE CUTTHROAT TROUT G4T2 S2 S2

Stizostedion canadense SAUGER G5 S3S4 S2

Antrozous pallidus PALLID BAT G5 S1B, SZN S1Bos bison BISON G4 S2 S3?Canis lupus GRAY WOLF LE3 G4 S2 S1

Corynorhinus townsendiiTOWNSENDS BIG- EARED BAT G4 S1B, SZN S2S3

Cynomys leucurusWHITE-TAILED PRAIRIE DOG G4 S2S3 S1

Cynomys ludovicianusBLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOG C4 G4 S2S3 S3S4

Euderma maculatum SPOTTED BAT G4 S1B, SZN S1

Gulo gulo luscusNORTH AMERICAN WOLVERINE G4T4 S1 S2

Lutra canadensis RIVER OTTER G5 S3 S4Lynx canadensis NORTH AMERICAN LYNX LT G5 S1 S2Martes pennanti FISHER G5 S1 S2Microtus richardsoni WATER VOLE G5 S2S3 S4Myotis evotis LONG-EARED MYOTIS G5 S1B,S1?N S4Sorex nanus DWARF SHREW G4 S2S3 S3Sorex preblei PREBLE'S SHREW G4 S1S2 S3Tamias umbrinus UINTA CHIPMUNK G5 S3?Ursus arctos horribilis GRIZZLY BEAR LT G4T3 S2 S1S2

Discus shimekii STRIATE DISC G4 S1Oreohelix strigosa berryi BERRY'S MOUNTAINSNAIL G5T2 S1S2

Charina bottae RUBBER BOA G5 S2S3 S4Chelydra serpentina SNAPPING TURTLE G5 S4 S3Heterodon nasicus WESTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE G5 S4 S3Lampropeltis triangulum MILK SNAKE G5 S2S3 S2Phrynosoma hernandesi SHORT HORNED LIZARD G5 S4 S4Trionyx spiniferus SPINY SOFTSHELL G5 S4 S3

1 = Proposed Threatened2 = Listed Threatened

4 = Candidate3 = Listed Endangered (in the Northern Rockies)

Mollusk

Reptile

Fish

Mammal

33

Appendix C.Global and State Rank Guidelines

The term “species of special concern” includes taxa that are rare, endemic, disjunct, threatened or endangeredthroughout their range or in Montana, vulnerable to extirpation from Montana, or in need of further research.The term also encompasses species that have a special designation by organizations or land managementagencies in Montana, including: Bureau of Land Management Special Status and Watch species; U.S. ForestService Sensitive and Watch species; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Threatened, Endangered and Candidatespecies.

Taxa are evaluated and ranked by the Heritage Program on the basis of their global (range-wide) status, andtheir statewide status according to a standardized procedure used by all Natural Heritage Programs. Theseranks are used to determine protection and data collection priorities, and are revised as new informationbecomes available.

For each level of distribution—global and state—species are assigned a numeric rank ranging from 1(critically imperiled) to 5 (demonstrably secure). This reflects the species’ relative endangerment andis based primarily on the number of occurrences of that species globally or within the state. How-ever, other information such as date of collection, degree of habitat threat, geographic distributionpatterns and population size and trends is considered when assigning a rank, and the number ofoccurrences listed below are suggestions, not absolute criteria.

For example, Clustered lady’s slipper (Cypripedium fasciculatum) is ranked G4 S2. That is, globally the speciesis apparently secure, while in Montana it is imperiled because of rarity, or because of other factors making itdemonstrably vulnerable to extirpation.

For ranks, substitute S (State) or G (Global) in these definitions

Rank Definition 1 Critically Imperiled—Critically imperiled because of extreme rarity or because of some

factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extirpation. Typically 5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining individuals (<1,000).

2 Imperiled—Imperiled because of rarity or because of some factor(s) making it very vulnerable to extirpation. Typically 6 to 20 occurrences or few remaining individuals (1,000 to 3,000).

3 Vulnerable—Vulnerable either because rare and uncommon, or found only in a restricted range (even if abundant at some locations), or because of other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation. Typically 21 to 100 occurrences or between 3,000 and 10,000 individuals.

4 Apparently Secure—Uncommon but not rare, and usually widespread. Possible cause of long-term concern. Usually more than 100 occurrences and more than 10,000 individuals.

5 Secure—Common, widespread, and abundant. Essentially ineradicable under present conditions. Typically with considerably more than 100 occurrences and more than 10,000 individuals.

34

Qualifier Definition

# # Range Rank—A numeric range rank (e.g., S2S3) is used to indicate the range of uncertainty about the exact status of the element. Ranges cannot skip more than one rank (e.g., SU is used rather than S1S4).

? Unranked—rank not yet assessed. # A modifier to X or H; the species has been reintroduced but the population is not yet

established. * G or S rank has been assigned and is under review. Contact the individual state Natural

Heritage program for assigned rank. HYB Hybrid—Element not ranked because it represents an interspecific hybrid, not a species. U Unrankable—Currently unrankable due to lack of information or due to substantially

conflicting information about status or trends. E Exotic—An established exotic; may be native in nearby regions (e.g., house finch or catalpa

in eastern U.S.). E# Exotic Numeric—An established exotic that has been assigned a numeric rank to indicate

its status, as defined for G1 or S1 through G5 or S5. A Accidental—Accidental or casual, in other words, infrequent and outside usual range.

Includes species (usually birds or butterflies) recorded once or only a few times at a location. A few of these species may have bred on the one or two occasions they were recorded. Examples include European strays or western birds on the East Coast and vice-versa.

B Breeding—Basic rank refers to the breeding population of the element. C Captive or Cultivated—Native element presently extant only in captivity or cultivation. H Possibly Extirpated (Historical)—Element occurred historically, and there is some

expectation that it may be rediscovered. Its presence may not have been verified in the past 20 years. An element would become GH or SH without such a 20-year delay if the only known occurrences were destroyed or if it had been extensively and unsuccessfully looked for. Upon verification of an extant occurrence, GH or SH-ranked elements would typically receive a G1 or S1 rank. The GH or SH rank should be reserved for elements for which some effort has been made to relocate occurrences, rather than simply using this rank for all elements not known from verified extant occurrences.

N Nonbreeding—Basic rank refers to the non-breeding population of the element. P Potential—Potential that element occurs but no extant or historic occurrences are accepted. R Reported—Element reported but without a basis for either accepting or rejecting the report,

or the report not yet reviewed locally. Some of these are very recent discoveries for which the program hasn't yet received first-hand information; others are old, obscure reports.

T Rank for subspecific taxon (subspecies, variety, or population); appended to the global rank for the full species, e.g. G4T3

X Presumed Extirpated—Element is believed to be extirpated. Not located despite intensive searches of historical sites and other appropriate habitat, and virtually no likelihood that it will be rediscovered.

**Qualifiers and Rank Ranges**

35

CRITERIA USED FOR RANKING

The criteria for ranking are based on a set of quantitative and qualitative factors. These factors are listedbelow in order of their general importance:

a. Number of Element Occurrences (EOs):the estimated number of EOs throughout the Element’s global range;

b. Abundance:the estimated global abundance of the Element (measured by number of individuals, or area, or streamlength covered);

c. Size of Range:the estimated size of the Element’s global range;

d. Distribution trend:the trend in the Element’s distribution over its global range;

e. Number of protected EOs:the estimated number of adequately protected EOs throughout the Element’s global range;

f. Degree of threat:the degree to which the Element is threatened globally;

g. Fragility:the fragility or susceptibility of the Element to intrusion;

h. Other global considerations:for example, the quality or condition of EOs that affect or may affect endangerment status; unex-plained population fluctuations; reproductive strategies that are dependent on specific habitat; etc.

36

PLANT ASSO CIATIO N NAME

GL

OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Abies lasiocarpa - Acer glabrum Avalanche Chute Shrubland G5 yAbies lasiocarpa - Pinus albicaulis / Vaccinium scoparium Woodland G5? y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Acer glabrum Forest G5 y

Abies lasiocarpa / Actaea rubra Forest G4? y yAbies lasiocarpa / Alnus viridis ssp. sinuata Forest G4 y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Arnica cordifolia Forest G5 y

Abies lasiocarpa / Arnica latifolia Forest G4 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Calamagrostis canadensis Forest G5 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G4G5 y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Carex geyeri Forest G5 yAbies lasiocarpa / Clematis columbiana var. columbiana Forest G3? y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Galium triflorum Forest G4 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Juniperus communis Woodland G4G5 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Ledum glandulosum Forest G4 y

Abies lasiocarpa / Linnaea borealis Forest G5 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Luzula glabrata var. hitchcockii Forest G5 y

Abies lasiocarpa / Mahonia repens Forest G5 yAbies lasiocarpa / Pedicularis racemosa Forest G5 yAbies lasiocarpa / Ribes (montigenum, lacustre, inerme) Forest G5 y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Spiraea betulifolia Forest G4 yAbies lasiocarpa / Streptopus amplexifolius Forest G4 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Symphoricarpos albus Forest G3 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Thalictrum occidentale Forest G4 yAbies lasiocarpa / Vaccinium cespitosum Forest G5 y y

Appendix D.Plant Associations in the Upper Yellowstone Watershed

37

PLANT ASSO CIATIO N NAME GL

OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Abies lasiocarpa / Vaccinium membranaceum Rocky Mountain Forest G5 y yAbies lasiocarpa / Vaccinium scoparium Forest G5 y y

Abies lasiocarpa / Xerophyllum tenax Forest G5 y y

Abies lasiocarpa Krummholz Shrubland G4 y y

Abies lasiocarpa Scree Woodland G5? y y

Acer glabrum Avalanche Chute Shrubland G5 y

Acer glabrum Drainage Bottom Shrubland G4? y

Agrostis stolonifera Herbaceous Vegetation GM y y y

Alnus incana / Mesic Forbs Shrubland G3G4 y

Alnus incana / Mesic Graminoids Shrubland G3 yAlnus incana / Ribes (inerme, hudsonianum, lacustre) Shrubland G3 y

Alnus incana Shrubland G?Q y yAlnus viridis ssp. sinuata Shrubland [Placeholder] G?Q yAndropogon gerardii - Schizachyrium scoparium Western Great Plains Herbaceous G2? yAndropogon hallii - Calamovilfa longifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G4G5 yAndropogon hallii - Carex inops ssp. heliophila Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yAntennaria microphylla - Artemisia scopulorum Herbaceous Vegetation G1Q yArtemisia arbuscula - Cercocarpus ledifolius / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda G4Q yArtemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yArtemisia arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria spicata Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G5 yArtemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba / Festuca idahoensis Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous G3? y yArtemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola / Festuca idahoensis Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous G2 y

38


OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Artemisia cana / Festuca idahoensis Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y yArtemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland G4 y y yArtemisia cana / Stipa comata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yArtemisia cana ssp. cana / Calamovilfa longifolia Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yArtemisia cana ssp. cana / Pascopyrum smithii Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yArtemisia cana ssp. viscidula / Festuca idahoensis Shrubland G3 yArtemisia longifolia - Oryzopsis hymenoides Sparse Vegetation G3? y

Artemisia longifolia Sparse Vegetation G3 yArtemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata Dwarf-shrubland G4G5 y y y

Artemisia nova Dwarf-shrubland G3G5 yArtemisia pedatifida - Atriplex gardneri Dwarf-shrubland G3? y yArtemisia pedatifida / Pascopyrum smithii Dwarf-shrubland G3 yArtemisia pedatifida / Pseudoroegneria spicata Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

Artemisia spinescens Dwarf-shrubland G3Q yArtemisia tridentata - Atriplex confertifolia Shrubland G4 yArtemisia tridentata / Festuca campestris Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3Q yArtemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G4Q y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Festuca idahoensis Shrubland G4? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Leymus cinereus Shrubland G2 y y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland G3? y y(?)Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub Herbaceous G2G4 y y y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Festuca G4 y

39


OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Bromus carinatus Shrubland G4? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca campestris Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis - Elymus trachycaulus G? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis - Geranium viscossimum G? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis - Pseudoroegneria spicata G? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland G3? yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland G5 y y(?) yArtemisia tridentata ssp. vayesana / Festuca idahoensis - Stipa occidentalis Shrubland G? y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis - Atriplex confertifolia Shrubland G3G5 yArtemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Mixed Grasses Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland G4 yArtemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub Herbaceous G4 y y y yArtemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland G5? y y yAtriplex confertifolia / Oryzopsis hymenoides Shrubland G3? yAtriplex confertifolia / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland G3 yAtriplex confertifolia Wyoming Basins Shrubland G5 y yAtriplex gardneri - Artemisia spinescens Dwarf-shrubland G2G3 yAtriplex gardneri / Artemisia tridentata Dwarf-shrubland G3 y yAtriplex gardneri / Monolepis nuttalliana Dwarf-shrubland G3? yAtriplex gardneri / Oryzopsis hymenoides Dwarf-shrubland G3 yAtriplex gardneri / Pascopyrum smithii Dwarf-shrubland G3 y y

40


OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Betula nana / Carex utriculata Shrubland G4? y yBetula occidentalis - Pentaphylloides floribunda Shrubland G2Q yBetula occidentalis / Cornus sericea Shrubland G3? y

Betula occidentalis Shrubland G3Q y yBouteloua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yCalamagrostis canadensis - Senecio triangularis Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yCalamagrostis canadensis Western Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yCalamovilfa longifolia - Carex inops ssp. heliophila Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yCalamovilfa longifolia - Stipa comata Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

Caltha leptosepala Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y

Carex aquatilis Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y y

Carex buxbaumii Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

Carex duriuscula Herbaceous Vegetation GUQ yCarex elynoides - Geum rossii Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Carex elynoides Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Carex lanuginosa Herbaceous Vegetation G5? y y

Carex lasiocarpa Herbaceous Vegetation G4? y y

Carex limosa Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

Carex microptera Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y

Carex nebrascensis Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y y y

Carex nigricans Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yCarex praegracilis - Carex aquatilis Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

41


OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Carex rupestris - Geum rossii Herbaceous Vegetation G4 yCarex rupestris - Potentilla ovina Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yCarex scirpoidea - Geum rossii Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yCarex scirpoidea - Potentilla diversifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yCarex scopulorum - Caltha leptosepala Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y

Carex scopulorum Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y

Carex simulata Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Carex utriculata Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y yCercocarpus ledifolius / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland G4Q y y y

Cornus sericea / Galium triflorum Shrubland G3 yCornus sericea / Heracleum maximum Shrubland G3 y

Cornus sericea Shrubland G4Q y yCrataegus douglasii - (Crataegus chrysocarpa) Shrubland G2Q y yCrataegus succulenta Shrubland [Placeholder] G3G4Q y y yDanthonia unispicata - Poa secunda Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yDeschampsia cespitosa - Aster foliaceus Herbaceous Vegetation G3Q yDeschampsia cespitosa - Carex microptera Herbaceous Vegetation G2G3 yDeschampsia cespitosa - Carex spp. Herbaceous Vegetation G4Q y yDeschampsia cespitosa - Luzula multiflora Herbaceous Vegetation G3Q yDeschampsia cespitosa - Potentilla diversifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yDeschampsia cespitosa Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y y

Distichlis spicata Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y

42


OB

AL

R

AN

K

Bel

t Mts

(3

32D

)

Big

horn

B

asin

(331

B)

Pow

der

Riv

er

Bas

in (3

31G

)

Yel

low

ston

e H

ighl

ands

(3

31A

)

Dryas octopetala - Carex rupestris Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yDryas octopetala - Polygonum viviparum Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y yElaeagnus commutata / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland G3? y

Eleocharis acicularis Herbaceous Vegetation G4? y

Eleocharis palustris Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y y yEleocharis quinqueflora Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Equisetum fluviatile Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yFestuca brachyphylla - Trisetum spicatum Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yFestuca idahoensis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y yFestuca idahoensis - Carex inops ssp. heliophila Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yFestuca idahoensis - Danthonia intermedia Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yFestuca idahoensis - Deschampsia cespitosa Herbaceous Vegetation G3G4 y yFestuca idahoensis - Elymus trachycaulus Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yFestuca idahoensis - Eriogonum heracleoides Herbaceous Vegetation G2 yFestuca idahoensis - Pascopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y yFestuca idahoensis - Potentilla diversifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yFestuca idahoensis - Pseudoroegneria spicata Herbaceous Vegetation G4 yFestuca idahoensis - Stipa richardsonii Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y yGeum rossii - Minuartia obtusiloba Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y yGeum rossii - Polygonum bistortoides Herbaceous Vegetation G4G5 yGeum rossii - Trifolium spp. Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

Glyceria borealis Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y y

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Grayia spinosa / Oryzopsis hymenoides Shrubland G4 y

Hordeum jubatum Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Juncus balticus Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y y yJuncus drummondii - Antennaria lanata Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y yJuniperus horizontalis / Carex inops ssp. heliophila Dwarf-shrubland G4 yJuniperus horizontalis / Schizachyrium scoparium Dwarf-shrubland G4 yJuniperus osteosperma / Artemisia nova Woodland G5? yJuniperus osteosperma / Artemisia tridentata Woodland G5? yJuniperus osteosperma / Cercocarpus ledifolius Woodland G3? y yJuniperus osteosperma / Pseudoroegneria spicata Woodland G4 y yJuniperus scopulorum / Artemisia nova Woodland G2? yJuniperus scopulorum / Artemisia tridentata Woodland G3Q yJuniperus scopulorum / Cercocarpus ledifolius Woodland G3? yJuniperus scopulorum / Cornus sericea Woodland G4 y yJuniperus scopulorum / Pseudoroegneria spicata Woodland G4 y y yKrascheninnikovia lanata / Stipa comata Dwarf-shrubland G3 y

Leymus cinereus Herbaceous Vegetation G2G3Q yLupinus spp. - Poa spp. Herbaceous Vegetation G1Q y

Mertensia ciliata Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yNuphar lutea ssp. polysepala Herbaceous Vegetation G5 yPascopyrum smithii - Bouteloua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G4 yPascopyrum smithii - Distichlis spicata Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

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Pascopyrum smithii - Eleocharis spp. Herbaceous Vegetation G1 yPascopyrum smithii - Hordeum jubatum Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yPascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula Herbaceous Vegetation G3G4 y y

Pascopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation G3G5Q y yPentaphylloides floribunda / Deschampsia cespitosa Shrubland G4 y yPentaphylloides floribunda / Festuca idahoensis Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y yPhalaris arundinacea Western Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yPhleum alpinum - Carex aquatilis Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yPhleum alpinum - Carex microptera Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yPhleum alpinum - Elymus trachycaulus Herbaceous Vegetation G3? yPhlox pulvinata - Trifolium dasyphyllum Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yPhragmites australis Western North America Temperate Semi-natural Herbaceous G4 y yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Carex disperma Forest G2Q yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Equisetum arvense Forest G4 yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Galium triflorum Forest G4 y yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Juniperus communis Forest G2Q yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Linnaea borealis Forest G4 y yPicea (engelmannii X glauca, engelmannii) / Senecio streptanthifolius Forest G4 y y

Picea engelmannii / Arnica cordifolia Forest G3G4 y yPicea engelmannii / Calamagrostis canadensis Forest G4 y yPicea engelmannii / Caltha leptosepala Forest G3? y

Picea engelmannii / Carex disperma Forest G2 y

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Picea engelmannii / Cornus sericea Woodland G3 yPicea engelmannii / Equisetum arvense Forest G4 y y

Picea engelmannii / Galium triflorum Forest G4 yPicea engelmannii / Hypnum revolutum Forest G2 y yPicea engelmannii / Juniperus communis Forest G3 y y

Picea engelmannii / Linnaea borealis Forest G3 yPicea engelmannii / Maianthemum stellatum Forest G4? y yPicea engelmannii / Physocarpus malvaceus Forest G3 yPicea engelmannii / Vaccinium scoparium Forest G3G5 y yPinus albicaulis - Abies lasiocarpa Woodland [Placeholder] G5? y

Pinus albicaulis / Carex geyeri Woodland G2G3 y y

Pinus albicaulis / Carex rossii Forest G3? yPinus albicaulis / Festuca idahoensis Woodland G4 yPinus albicaulis / Juniperus communis Woodland G4? yPinus albicaulis / Vaccinium scoparium Forest G4 y y

Pinus albicaulis Woodland [Placeholder] G5? y

Pinus contorta / Arnica cordifolia Forest G4? y yPinus contorta / Calamagrostis canadensis Forest G5 y yPinus contorta / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G5 y y

Pinus contorta / Carex geyeri Forest G4? yPinus contorta / Juniperus communis Woodland G5 y y y

Pinus contorta / Linnaea borealis Forest G5 y

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Pinus contorta / Purshia tridentata Woodland G3 yPinus contorta / Shepherdia canadensis Forest G3G4 y

Pinus contorta / Spiraea betulifolia Forest G3G4 yPinus contorta / Thalictrum occidentale Forest G4Q yPinus contorta / Vaccinium cespitosum Forest G5 y yPinus contorta / Vaccinium membranaceum Rocky Mountain Forest G3G4 y y

Pinus contorta / Vaccinium scoparium Forest G5 y y

Pinus contorta / Xerophyllum tenax Forest G5 y

Pinus contorta / Xerophyllum tenax Forest G5 y

Pinus contorta Scree Woodland G5? y y

Pinus flexilis / Festuca idahoensis Woodland G5 y y

Pinus flexilis / Festuca kingii Woodland G3 yPinus flexilis / Juniperus communis Woodland G5 y y yPinus flexilis / Juniperus osteosperma Woodland G3 yPinus flexilis / Pseudoroegneria spicata Woodland G4? y yPinus ponderosa / (Andropogon gerardii, Schizachyrium scoparium) Woodland G2Q yPinus ponderosa / Carex inops ssp. heliophila Woodland G3G4 y

Pinus ponderosa / Cornus sericea Woodland G3 y yPinus ponderosa / Crataegus douglasii Woodland G1 y

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Pinus ponderosa / Festuca idahoensis Woodland G4 y yPinus ponderosa / Juniperus communis Woodland G4? yPinus ponderosa / Juniperus horizontalis Woodland G3? y yPinus ponderosa / Juniperus scopulorum Woodland G4 y y

Pinus ponderosa / Mahonia repens Forest G3Q y yPinus ponderosa / Pascopyrum smithii Woodland G3G4 yPinus ponderosa / Physocarpus monogynus Forest G3 y

Pinus ponderosa / Prunus virginiana Forest G3 yPinus ponderosa / Pseudoroegneria spicata Woodland G4 yPinus ponderosa / Purshia tridentata Woodland G3G5 yPinus ponderosa / Schizachyrium scoparium Woodland G3G4 yPinus ponderosa / Symphoricarpos albus Forest G4? yPinus ponderosa / Symphoricarpos occidentalis Forest G3 y

Pinus ponderosa Scree Woodland G4 y

Poa palustris Herbaceous Vegetation GW y y yPolygonum amphibium Permanently Flooded Herbaceous Alliance G5 yPopulus angustifolia / Betula occidentalis Woodland G3 yPopulus angustifolia / Cornus sericea Woodland G4 y y yPopulus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea Forest G3? y

Populus deltoides / Cornus sericea Forest G3? y y y yPopulus deltoides / Pascopyrum smithii Woodland G3? yPopulus deltoides / Symphoricarpos occidentalis Woodland G2G3 yPopulus tremuloides - Pinus contorta / Carex geyeri Forest G3? y

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Populus tremuloides - Pinus contorta / Symphoricarpos oreophilus Forest G3G4 yPopulus tremuloides - Pseudotsuga menziesii / Amelanchier alnifolia Forest G3? yPopulus tremuloides - Pseudotsuga menziesii / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G3? yPopulus tremuloides - Pseudotsuga menziesii / Symphoricarpos oreophilus Forest G3G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Bromus G3G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Calamagrostis G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Tall Forbs G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Thalictrum G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia / Tall Forbs Forest G3G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Amelanchier alnifolia / Thalictrum fendleri Forest G3G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis Forest G3 y yPopulus tremuloides / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G5? y y

Populus tremuloides / Carex geyeri Forest G4 y

Populus tremuloides / Cornus sericea Forest G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Equisetum arvense Forest G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Heracleum sphondylium Forest G4Q y

Populus tremuloides / Mahonia repens Forest G3 y

Populus tremuloides / Poa pratensis Forest S? yPopulus tremuloides / Prunus virginiana Forest G3?Q yPopulus tremuloides / Salix scouleriana Forest G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Shepherdia canadensis Forest G3G4 yPopulus tremuloides / Symphoricarpos albus Forest G3? y

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Populus tremuloides / Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G3G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Tall Forbs Forest G3G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Thalictrum fendleri Forest G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Symphoricarpos oreophilus Forest G5 y

Populus tremuloides / Tall Forbs Forest G5 y y yPopulus tremuloides / Thalictrum fendleri Forest G5 yPopulus tremuloides / Wyethia amplexicaulis Forest G3 yPrunus virginiana - (Prunus americana) Shrubland G4Q y y yPseudoroegneria spicata - Bouteloua curtipendula Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yPseudoroegneria spicata - Bouteloua gracilis Herbaceous Vegetation G4 yPseudoroegneria spicata - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yPseudoroegneria spicata - Cushion Plant Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y y yPseudoroegneria spicata - Eriogonum brevicaule Sparse Vegetation G3? yPseudoroegneria spicata - Pascopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y y yPseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda Herbaceous Vegetation G4? y y y yPseudoroegneria spicata - Stipa comata Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y yPseudotsuga menziesii - Pinus flexilis / Festuca kingii Woodland G4Q y

Pseudotsuga menziesii / Acer glabrum Forest G4? yPseudotsuga menziesii / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Forest G4 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Arnica cordifolia Forest G4 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Calamagrostis rubescens Forest G5 y y

Pseudotsuga menziesii / Carex geyeri Forest G4? y y

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Pseudotsuga menziesii / Festuca idahoensis Woodland G4 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Festuca kingii Woodland G3G4 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Juniperus communis Forest G4 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Juniperus osteosperma Forest G2? yPseudotsuga menziesii / Juniperus scopulorum Woodland G3 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Linnaea borealis Forest G4 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Mahonia repens Forest G5 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Osmorhiza berteroi Forest G4G5 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Physocarpus malvaceus Forest G5 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Physocarpus monogynus Forest G4 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Pseudoroegneria spicata Woodland G4 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Spiraea betulifolia Forest G5 y yPseudotsuga menziesii / Symphoricarpos albus Forest G5 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Symphoricarpos oreophilus Forest G5 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Vaccinium cespitosum Forest G5 yPseudotsuga menziesii / Vaccinium membranaceum Forest G5? y y

Pseudotsuga menziesii Scree Woodland G5 yPurshia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yRhus trilobata / Carex filifolia Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 yRhus trilobata / Festuca idahoensis Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G2? yRhus trilobata / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y yRhus trilobata / Schizachyrium scoparium Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G3 y

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Ribes lacustre / Mertensia ciliata Shrubland G2 y

Rosa woodsii Shrubland G5 y y y y

Salicornia rubra Herbaceous Vegetation G2G3 ySalix (boothii, geyeriana) / Carex aquatilis Shrubland G3 ySalix (farriae, planifolia) / Carex utriculata Shrubland G3 y

Salix amygdaloides Woodland G3 y ySalix arctica / Polygonum bistortoides Dwarf-shrubland G2G3Q y y

Salix bebbiana Shrubland G3? y ySalix boothii / Calamagrostis canadensis Shrubland G3G4Q y

Salix boothii / Carex utriculata Shrubland G4 y y

Salix boothii / Equisetum arvense Shrubland G3 ySalix boothii / Maianthemum stellatum Shrubland G3Q y

Salix boothii / Mesic Graminoids Shrubland G3? y

Salix brachycarpa / Mesic Forbs Shrubland G4 y

Salix candida / Carex rostrata Shrubland G3 y ySalix drummondiana Shrubland [Placeholder] G3Q y

Salix exigua / Equisetum arvense Shrubland G3 y

Salix exigua / Mesic Forbs Shrubland G2? y

Salix exigua Temporarily Flooded Shrubland G5 y y y ySalix geyeriana / Calamagrostis canadensis Shrubland G5 y

Salix geyeriana / Carex utriculata Shrubland G5 y

Salix geyeriana / Mesic Forbs Shrubland G3 y

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Salix geyeriana / Mesic Graminoids Shrubland G2G3Q y

Salix geyeriana / Poa palustris Shrubland GW y

Salix glauca Shrubland G3? ySalix lutea / Calamagrostis canadensis Shrubland G3? y y

Salix lutea / Carex utriculata Shrubland G4 y ySalix planifolia / Caltha leptosepala Shrubland G4 y

Salix planifolia / Carex aquatilis Shrubland G5 y y

Salix planifolia Shrubland G4 ySalix reticulata / Caltha leptosepala Dwarf-shrubland G3 y

Salix wolfii / Carex aquatilis Shrubland G4 y ySalix wolfii / Deschampsia cespitosa Shrubland G3 y

Salix wolfii / Fragaria virginiana Shrubland G4? y

Salix wolfii / Mesic Forbs Shrubland G3 ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Artemisia tridentata Shrubland G4 y ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Atriplex gardneri Shrubland G4? ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Leymus cinereus Shrubland G3 ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii - (Elymus lanceolatus) Shrub G4 y y ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland G3 y ySarcobatus vermiculatus / Sporobolus airoides Sparse Vegetation G3? ySchizachyrium scoparium - Bouteloua (curtipendula, gracilis) - Carex filifolia G3G4 ySchizachyrium scoparium - Carex inops ssp. heliophila Herbaceous Vegetation G3 ySchizachyrium scoparium - Muhlenbergia cuspidata Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y y

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Scirpus acutus Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y y y y

Scirpus maritimus Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y y

Scirpus pungens Herbaceous Vegetation G3G4 y yScirpus tabernaemontani Temperate Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y ySenecio triangularis - Mimulus guttatus Herbaceous Vegetation G3? y

Senecio triangularis Herbaceous Vegetation G5? y y

Shepherdia argentea Shrubland G3G4 y

Silene acaulis Herbaceous Vegetation G5? y ySpartina pectinata - Carex spp. Herbaceous Vegetation G3? ySpartina pectinata - Scirpus pungens Herbaceous Vegetation G3Q ySpartina pectinata Western Herbaceous Vegetation G3? ySporobolus cryptandrus Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G2 yStipa comata - Bouteloua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G5 yStipa comata - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation G4 yStipa comata - Carex inops ssp. heliophila Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y

Symphoricarpos occidentalis Shrubland G4G5 y y yTypha latifolia Western Herbaceous Vegetation G5 y yYucca glauca / Calamovilfa longifolia Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation G4 y

54

Appendix E.Site Descriptions

Bald Ridge........................................................55Basin Lakes......................................................55Beartooth Front-Aspen Parkland......................56Beartooth High-Elevation Plateaus.....................57Beartooth Kettle Lakes.....................................58Beaver Lodge................................................. 58Big Beaver........................................................59Big Lake....................................................... 60Blacktail Ponds.................................................61Bluewater Springs............................................ 62Boulder Forks............................................... 62Bull Springs.................................................... 63Chapman Bench.............................................. 65Chrome Lake...................................................65Clark’s Fork Waterfowl Production Area..........66Clay Butte / Beartooth Butte............................ 67Crater Fen....................................................... 67Dry Fork Creek Marshes............................... 68East Boulder River...................................... 69East Fork Fiddler Creek Complex................... 69East Rosebud Complex................................... 70East Rosebud Floodplain Subdivision............... 71East Rosebud Lake...........................................72East Rosebud Oxbow...................................... 73Flathead Creek / Brackett Creek..................... 74Gardiner......................................................... 74Gardiner / Bear Creek........................ ........ 75Government Island............................................76Grove Creek Aspens....................................... 76Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge.....................77Halfbreed National Wildlife Refuge............. ......78Hell’s Canyon...................................................80Horsethief Station............................................ 80Lamar River......................................................81Line Creek Plateau To Pryor Mountains............82Little Moose Lake............................................83Lost Lakes.......................................................83Mary Bay / Yellowstone....................................84Main Boulder....................................................84Main Boulder River...........................................85Mammoth.........................................................86McDonald Basin...............................................87

Meeteetse Spires / Line Creek Foothills.......... 87Meeteetse Spires Macrosite............................. 88Meyers Creek..................................................89Mill Creek....................................................... 90Mud Lake-Boulder River................................. 91Nurses Lake.....................................................91Obsidian Creek.............................................. 92Pat O’Hara Mountain.......................................93Pine Ridge....................................................... 94Pruit Park.........................................................94Rattlesnake Mountain.......................................95Riverfront Park.................................................95Sage Creek......................................................96Sawtooth Fen-Palsa.........................................97Sliding Mountain / Sixmile Creek.......................97Slough Creek / Lamar River..............................98Stillwater River-Flume Creek............................98Sunlight Peak To Conical Peak.........................99Swamp Lake...................................................100Swan Lake Flat...............................................101Tom Miner Basin / Rock Creek...................... 101Twin Lakes / Montana.................................... 101Twin Lakes / Wyoming....................................102Two Moon Park.............................................103Upper And Lower Deer Creeks......................104Upper Hellroaring Creek / Slough Creek.........104Upper Shields River........................................105Water Birch....................................................105West Boulder Meadows............................ 106West Fork Rock Creek Fens......................... 107West Rosebud Complex................................ 108West Rosebud Moraine................................. 109West Rosebud Trailhead.................................110West Thumb...................................................111White Bird......................................................111Wyoming Line.................................................111Yellowstone Lake........................................... 112Yellowstone Lake Southeast......................... 112Yellowstone River Corridor.............................113Yellowstone River-Stillwater River................. 113Yellowstone River-Work Creek........... ....... 114

55

Bald Ridge

DirectionsNortheast Absaroka Mountains, Bald Ridge, on east sideof Clark’s Fork Canyon, 5-6 air miles northeast of DeadIndian Pass, about 23.3 air miles northwest of Cody. FromCody, proceed north on Wyoming state highway 120about 16 miles to state highway 296 (Chief Joseph ScenicHighway). Travel west on highway 296 about 11.2 milesto Forest Service Road 100. Proceed north on road 100for about 6 miles. This road is an unimproved dirt two-track.

DescriptionBald Ridge is located on the far eastern flank of theAbsaroka Range in an area noteworthy for its remnantsurfaces of calcareous bedrock (most of the other areasof the Absarokas were buried in volcanic deposits nearly50 million years ago). The crest of Bald Ridge divides thesite into distinctive vegetative regions. Open woodlandsof limber pine with patches of bluebunch wheatgrass andIdaho fescue grasslands cover most of the area east ofthe divide. Thick forests of Engelmann spruce andDouglas-fir dominate the west side. The crest of theridge itself is dominated by a rich variety of regionallyendemic cushion plant species. Bald Ridge apparentlyburned in a fire in 1996, but a visit by Walt Fertig andLaura Welp in 1999 confirmed their continued presencethere.

Key Environmental FactorsSubstrate.

ClimateBased on state-wide maps provided by Martner (1986),the mean annual temperature of the Bald Ridge area is 30-40 degrees F. Winters are cold, with January mean dailylow temperature of 6-8 degrees F and a mean daily hightemperature of 32-34 degrees F. Summer high tempera-tures are also relatively low, with a July mean daily lowtemperature of 48-50 degrees and a mean daily high of82-84 degrees. The region has 200-225 days annuallywith a minimum temperature under 32 degrees F. Thefrost-free period averages 75-100 days. Mean annualprecipitation is 12-14 inches and mean annual snowfall is40-60 inches.

RarityThe site contains high-quality habitat for 3 plantsdesignated Sensitive on US Forest Service Region 2: anA-ranked EO for Shoshonea pulvinata (G2G3) and B-ranked EOs for Pyrrocoma carthamoides var.subsquarrosa (T2T3) and Festuca hallii (G3G4/S1). Sixother rare plants tracked by WYNND are also present atthis site. Androsace chamaejasme ssp. carinata is aperipheral species, Antennaria aromatica is a disjunct

species, and Eritrichium howardii and Castilleja crista-galli are regional endemics. In addition, 4 plant speciesno longer tracked by WYNDD but still of interest(Aquilegia jonesii, Castilleja nivea, Helictotrichonhookeri, and Kelseya uniflora) and four communitytypes represented at the site: Elymus spicatusi-Poasecunda (blue-bunch wheatgrass-sandberg bluegrass);Picea engelmannii / Hypnum revolutum (Engelmannspruce / moss); Pinus flexilis / Juniperus communis (limber pine / common juniper); and Pseudotsugamenziesii / Juniperus communis ( Douglas fir / commonjuniper).

Other ValuesVery scenic; great views of Clark’s Fork, BeartoothPlateau, northern Absarokas.

Information NeedsMonitoring information on rare plant and animal speciesof interest. Much of Bald Ridge burned in a fire in 1996,and re-survey is recommended to determine the currentstatus of many elements. A visit in July 1999 showedlittle remaining evidence of fire in the lower grasslandcommunities.

Basin Lakes

DirectionsBasin Lakes is located in the Beartooth Mountains ofsouth central Montana. From Red Lodge; travel 7.5 mileson Forest Service Route 71 to Forest Service Trail 35.Follow Forest Service Trail 35 southerly for about 2 milesto Basin Lakes.

DescriptionThis collection of wetlands occurs in a lower subalpinebasin in the Beartooth Mountains. These wetlandsconsist of small glacial depressions on and adjacent toseveral small creeks. Some of these depressions aresupplied primarily with surface water from the creeks,while groundwater is the primary water source for theothers. These depressions are small, ranging in size from2 to 11 acres. The uplands are forests dominated byPinus contorta (lodgepole pine) and Pinus albicaulis(whitebark pine) in the upper canopy and Vacciniumscoparium (grouse whortleberry) in the undergrowth.The wetter portions of the depressions in this complexare generally dominated by Carex aquatilis (watersedge), although in one instance Nuphar lutea (yellowpond-lily) dominates open water in the center of thewetland. Fens have developed in some of the small,shallow depressions. They are dominated by a Salixplanifolia / Carex aquatilis (planeleaf willow / watersedge) community; most of the examples of this commu-nity have dense Sphagnum (mosses characteristic ofpoor fens and bogs) cover as well. In one instance,

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Sphagnum appears to be invading small Pinus contorta-dominated islands within the fen. One depression isdominated by a Carex limosa (mud sedge) floating matsurrounded by a fringe of Carex utriculata (beakedsedge). A small stand of Salix geyeriana / Carexutriculata (Geyer’s willow / beaked sedge) occurs alongone of the streams.

Key Environmental FactorsGroundwater generated by meltwater from surroundingbasin slopes is responsible for maintaining thesewetlands.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. This sitesupports many high quality occurrences of commonplant communities and one G3 plant association, Carexlimosa (mud sedge) herbaceous vegetation.

Land UseNo human impacts were discovered within the wetlandsin the course of inventory.

ExoticsNo exotic species were found.

UplandsThis basin has experienced past mining activity; associ-ated structures (cabins) and evidence of activities(timbering) remain.

Information NeedsNone have been noted.

Management NeedsNone have been noted.

Beartooth Front-Aspen Parkland

DirectionsThis site is located west of Red Lodge Montana alongthe foothills of the Beartooth Plateau in Carbon County.From Red Lodge, take Highway 78 north; turn west onthe Luther road and travel 7/10 of a mile. Land ownerpermission to access state lands is required at this point.Turn left (south) on the western most-least improvedroad and travel 2-3 miles to the state section. Park andwalk south.

DescriptionThe Beartooth Front Aspen Parklands site spans thenorth slope foothills at the base of the Beartooth Plateau.The massive Beartooth uplift elevated Paleozoic sedi-mentary rocks above the precambrian igneous andmetamorphic basement rocks over 50 million years ago.

Most of the uplifted sedimentary rock has been removedby erosion, but the greatly tilted sedimentary outcropsstill form a broken ring around the northern and easternperimeters of the Beartooth Mountains. The site iscentered on the strongly tilted landform at Palisades andSheep Mountain. The front is dissected by permanentand intermittent streams, nearly parallel south to north,separated by glacial and pre-glacial slopes, ridges andbenchlands. Soils are derived from granitics but havesignificant limestone to encourage Pinus flexilis grass-lands in places. Otherwise the vegetation is a mosaic ofgrass and shrublands with both coniferous and decidu-ous forests. Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta,Pseudotsuga menziesi, Abies lasiocarpa and Piceaengelmanii occur on forested slopes. There are many,widely-scattered Populus tremuloides (aspen) standspositioned on gently sloping benches, toeslopes,hillslopes and riparian habitats. Forest ridgelines areinterrupted by small to large open park-like meadows ofFestuca idahoensis - Stipa richardsonii, these havinglesser amounts of Danthonia intermedia and Stipaviridula. Pseudoroegneria spicata grasslands alsooccur in the shrub steppe with Artemisia tridentata ssp.vaseyana . Large grasslands occur along the lowerhillslopes. Wet riparian areas are a matrix of Salixbebbiana shrublands, Populus tremuloides forests andCarex dominated wet communities.

Key Environmental FactorsThe toe slope position of this site, northern aspect, andfractured sedimentary bedrock provide sheltered habitatfor aspen. Springs are fed from ground water sources.Fire helps maintain the herbaceous grassland communityecotone, reduce fuels in forested areas and helps cleanseand restore aspen communities.

The site spans several hundred feet in elevation. Thissharp topographic relief, and variety of substrates andmoisture conditions fosters high habitat diversity, andbrings subalpine communities in proximity to foothillsvegetation.

RarityThe extensive aspen parkland communities contribute tothe diverse composition and structure of the vegetation.Aspen is the only upland deciduous forest cover in thissite; the understory shrub layers are dominated byPhysocarpus malvaceus or Symphoricarpos albus. Thelatter association is floristically rich. This diversityincreases the number of insects, thus an increase ininsectivorous birds such as fly catchers. Collectivelythese aspen stands contribute to wildlife habitat diver-sity and floristic diversity of the study area. Aspen aresubject to disease and the rotted interior of aspen treesprovide habitat for cavity nesters such as red-napedsapsuckers and hairy woodpeckers. Aspen shoots and

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herbaceous forb understories provide nutritious foragefor moose and elk; fescue and blue bunchgrass commu-nities provide summer and winter forage for manyspecies.

Other ValuesSheep Mountain is an important mule deer winter rangeand breeding habitat for both ruffed and sharptailgrouse. The Palisades limestone escarpments are locallandmarks, and in turn offer scenic overviews from theabrupt rim of the Beartooth Front.

Land UseA large part of this site is state school sections; each ofwhich is leased for grazing cattle. Cattle grazing occursthroughout with subsequent fencing and salting sitesand probably some water developments. The forests areactively managed and the area is dissected with un-maintained roads. Many forest stands have been clear-cut and others are undergoing logging operations. Anactive landing was situated in a fescue meadow adjacentto a forest stand. A power utility line crosses the site.

The north side of the Palisades is bordered by the accessroad to the Red Lodge ski resort. There are no otheradjoining public roads, or trails into the area except at thePalisades Campground at the eastern end. An aspenrestoration plot is present on national forest in whichaspen cover was regenerated within a forest cover ofPinus contorta.

ExoticsSeveral noxious weeds are reported from the state schoolland sections (Cirsium arvense, Centaurea ssp. andEuphorbia esula). Two introduced grasses, Phleumpratense and Poa pratensis are present and abundant inmeadow and aspen communities. Annual bromes,Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) probably also occurs.

UplandsTo the north, this site borders private ranches; most ofthe private adjacent natural grasslands have beenconverted (pasteurized and fortified) with introducedforage grasses and legumes.

There are private tracts and inholdings on all sides, andpart of Sheep Mountain is privately owned; newbuildings have been constructed at midslope and crestpositions near the perimeter of state land.

Information NeedsFurther documentation of aspen stand composition andcondition is warranted, in concert with botany work andsurveys for terrestrial mollusks. The aspen stands onglacial outwash flats may be particularly significant. Wesurveyed the foothills for regional endemic species

(Shoshonea pulvinata and Haplopappus carthamoidesssp. subsquarrosus) without success. There has been nosurvey of the localized spring and seep habitats for otherMontana plant species of special concern known fromthe Beartooth Mountains such as Adoxa moschatellinaand Cypripedium parviflorum, nor did we survey theupper elevation reaches for high elevation rare plants.

Management NeedsNoxious weed control and best management practiceswould improve the condition of this site.

Beartooth High-Elevation Plateaus

DirectionsThe Beartooth High-elevation Plateaus site is located atthe crest of the Beartooth Mountains approximately 7.5miles southwest of Red Lodge, MT and spans theMontana-Wyoming border. The site is accessed viaHighway 212, which intersects the site 8.5 miles south ofRed Lodge, in the vicinity of the confluence of RockCreek with Lake Fork of Rock Creek. The site is also 6.5miles east of Cooke City, accessed from Highway 212.

DescriptionThis site is comprised of the alpine portions of theBeartooth, Froze-to-Death, Silver Run, Hellroaring, andLine Creek Plateaus. Line Creek Plateau is a gentlyrolling alpine tundra landscape with extensive areas ofmoist snowbed vegetation. The plateau containshundreds of glacial lakes and potholes although wetlandfeatures are rare. Major species of the alpine plateauinclude Festuca idahoensis (Idaho fescue), Carexscirpoidea (single-spike sedge), Carex elynoides(kobresia-like sedge), Deschampsia cespitosa (tuftedhairgrass), Salix glauca (glaucous willow), and Geumrossii (Ross’ avens). Side slopes on the north and eastsides of the plateau fall off steeply and are timbered bysubalpine and montane coniferous forest within thePinus albicaulis (whitebark pine), Abies lasiocarpa(subalpine fir), and Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir)series of habitat types. Elevations range from 9020 ft.(2750 m) to 12611 ft. (3845 m). In Montana the substrateis derived from metamorphic (gneiss) rock. The vegeta-tion on the Line Creek Plateau is more similar to the highranges of Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado than any othermountain range in Montana. Average minimum tempera-tures in Cooke City range from 2.5 deg. F. to 38 deg. F.

Key Environmental FactorsHigh elevation, permanently frozen subsoil, substrateconsisting of exposed basement rock (gneisses) andgeographic isolation are factors contributing to theuniqueness of this area. The Line Creek Plateau is theeastern most and warmest alpine plateau in the range.As the prevailing winds are from the west, Line Creek

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Plateau is leeward of the main portion of the BeartoothRange, and may be drier with a longer snow-free periodthan other plateaus in the Beartooths. Average annualprecipitation at Cooke City is 26.2 inches, while averageannual snowfall is 207 inches. Areas on the BeartoothPlateau may receive as much as 80 inches of annualprecipitation. Growing season temperatures measured onthe west edge of the Plateau in 1958 and 1959 averaged47 degrees F (15 degrees C), with a high of 68 degrees F(20 degrees C), and a low of 24 degrees F (-4 degrees C).

RarityThis site is an arctic refugia for several disjunct plants:Draba porsildii (porsild’s draba), Koenigia islandica(island koenigia), Salix barrattiana (Barratt’s willow),Eriophorum callitrix (sheathed cotton-grass),Koebresia macrocarpa (large-fruited kobresia) andPhippsia algida (ice grass) are arctic disjuncts knownfrom this site. This site is valuable as important habitatfor genetically pure Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri(Yellowstone cutthroat trout), Ursus arctos horribilis(grizzly bear) and Lynx canadensis (Canada lynx). Thereis at least one endemic beetle and potentially many moreundescribed insect species.

Other ValuesThis site has substantial year-round recreational andtourism values.

ExoticsExotic salmonid fish species have been widely stocked inthe numerous lakes and streams.

Information NeedsAdditional surveys for animals, plants and plant commu-nities of special concern are needed. Surveys are neededparticularly in areas away from roads and trails to betterdefine the ocurrences and distributions of these ele-ments.

Beartooth Kettle Lakes

DirectionsThe Beartooth Kettle Lakes lie high on the BeartoothPlateau of the Northern Absarokas in northwesternWyoming, just east of Yellowstone National Park. Thearea is easily reached in summer via Highway 212 fromthe Clark’s Fork Valley, over Beartooth Pass, and north toRed Lodge, MT.

DescriptionThe Beartooth Kettle Lakes lie high on the BeartoothPlateau where exposed Precambrian granite has beeneroded by glaciers and exposure. This unique area is thelargest wetland complex at this altitude in this region ofthe Rocky Mountains. Each lake is ringed by vegetation,

with exposed granite and sometimes metamorphic rockssurrounding the lakes as the basic matrix. Subalpineforest and alpine meadows occur where there is availablesoil. The site focuses on the uniqueness of the kettlelakes and the associated flora and expected fauna.

Key Environmental FactorsAltitude, wetlands and related water quality, geology.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith a goodly amount of snow, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.

RarityRank is based on the number of G5 species and the lackof ratings for most element occurrences.

Beaver Lodge

DirectionsBeaver Lodge is located in the foothills and high plainsof south central Montana. From Red Lodge, travel northon U.S. Highway 212 for approximately 5.5 miles. Turneast on a dirt road that is signed for Rock Creek fishingaccess. Follow this road for approximately 0.5 mile. Aftercrossing Rock Creek, turn right at a T-intersection andtravel south for approximately 1 mile. The access toBeaver Lodge Fishing Access is signed.

DescriptionBeaver Lodge is located in the floodplain of Rock Creek.In this reach, Rock Creek is braided with two or threeprimary channels. The site is composed primarily ofmature cottonwood forest, with Populus balsamiferasap. trichocarpa / Symphoricarpos occidentalis (blackcottonwood / western snowberry) occupying most of thefloodplain at this site. This community has an opencanopy of Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa withscattered Picea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce)saplings and an herbaceous layer dominated by theexotics Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Bromusinermis (smooth brome). Symphoricarpos occidentalisis widespread, but other shrubs, such as Prunusvirginiana (chokecherry), Betula occidentalis (waterbirch), and Rosa acicularis (prickly rose), are poorlyrepresented and confined to mesic swales. A Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (blackcottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community occurs ona large island between channel braids. Although heavilybrowsed, the shrub layer is well developed and domi-nated by tall Prunus virginiana. Poa pratensis domi-nates the herbaceous layer.

This site also has mesic seeps and swales that interceptgroundwater and support an Alnus incana / Equisetum

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arvense (mountain alder / field horsetail) community.Very small backwater sloughs along the active channelscollect fine sediments and support small stands of Typhalatifolia (broadleaf cattail), Calamagrostis canadensis(bluejoint reedgrass), and the exotic Phalarisarundinacea (reed canarygrass). Point and side gravel-cobble bars are common and are being colonized byherbaceous species, including many exotics.

Key Environmental FactorsFluvial processes, such as seasonal flooding and highgroundwater, and the associated channel migration andmicrotopography are the primary influences on vegeta-tion structure and composition at this site. Browsing bywild ungulates (perhaps elk and moose) has altered thestructure of the shrub layer in some cottonwood standsby suppressing and reducing the cover of palatablespecies, such as Cornus sericea (red-osier dogwood).

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.Two G3 communities in fair condition were documented:Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea(black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) and Alnusincana / Equisetum arvense (mountain alder / fieldhorsetail).

Other ValuesAlthough there are several diversion ditches upstream ofand within this reach, this section of Rock Creek appearsto support important hydrologic functions, such asdynamic water storage and surface water - groundwaterinteractions. The floodplain is still accessed by surfaceand subsurface flooding regimes, and native vegetationappears to be highly connected and to occupy much ofthe floodplain.

Land UseBeaver Lodge is a state fishing access site, and informalrecreational trails occur throughout the site. There isalso a small camping area.

ExoticsWeeds are abundant around the camping area and alongtrails. These include Centaurea maculosa (spottedknapweed), Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge),Cynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue), Taraxacumofficinale (common dandelion), Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), Leucanthemum vulgare (ox-eye daisy),Dactylis glomerata (orchard grass), and Phleumpratense (common timothy).

UplandsNative vegetation occupies the floodplain of Rock Creekalong the active channels immediately up and down-stream of the site. Land use adjacent to this riparian

corridor is predominately pasture and housing develop-ment.

Information NeedsWhat was the land use at this site before its acquisitionby the Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks?

Management NeedsAlthough this site would benefit from noxious weedmanagement, the influx of river-borne weed propagulesfrom the upstream watershed will make weed controlefforts even more challenging.

Big Beaver

DirectionsBig Beaver is located in the Beartooth Mountains ofsouth central Montana. From McLeod proceed 16 milessouth on State Route 298 to Forest Service Trail 117. BigBeaver is located 0.5 miles south on State Route 298.

DescriptionThis wetland/riparian area, located in the active flood-plain of the Boulder River, is a complex array of aquatic,emergent, shrub, and riparian communities. Some of theshrub and emergent communities lack well-definedboundaries and appear to intergrade depending mainlyon the depth to the water table. The water source isprimarily surface and groundwater from the BoulderRiver. Castor canadensis (beaver) activity has resultedin a series of dams that have ponded water in an old riverslough adjacent to the main channel. The floodedbeaver ponds have aquatic communities that support avariety of species such as Potamogeton foliosus (close-leafed pondweed), Callitriche heterophylla (different-leafed water starwort), Ranunculus aquatilis (waterbuttercup), Hippuris vulgaris (common mare’s tail),Sparganium sp. (bur-reed), and Nitella sp. (an algalspecies). A small Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail)community occurs at one end of the beaver pond, andCarex utriculata (beaked sedge) occurs along some ofthe slough margins. An exotic community of Poapalustris (fowl bluegrass) occurs on some sparselyvegetated silt deposits next to the beaver ponds.

The remaining portion of the site occurs on drier terracedeposits. A Salix exigua (sandbar willow) communityoccurs on a low terrace next to the river. This communityhas a diverse understory of forbs and graminoids, andlater-successional willow species are beginning todominate the overstory. An Alnus incana (mountainalder) community occurs at other low spots on theinterior part of this terrace. Dominance in this commu-nity shifts at times from Alnus incana to Salix exigua orSalix boothii (Booth’s willow). There is a small patch ofPopulus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea

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(black cottonwood / red osier dogwood) on the terraceas well. Most of this stand is fairly young and poorlydeveloped. The dominant forested community, however,is a climax riparian community, Picea engelmannii /Cornus sericea (Engelmann spruce / red osier dogwood).There is some spruce blowdown in this community andthe red-osier dogwood undergrowth is heavily browsedby ungulates (wild and/or domesticated).

Key Environmental FactorsThe primary factors structuring this site’s plant commu-nities are beaver activity (primarily harvesting), highwater tables, and seasonal flooding.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. Two highquality G3 plant associations were documented:Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea(black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) and Piceaengelmannii / Cornus sericea (Engelmann spruce / red-osier dogwood).

Land UseThe presence of pasture grasses, weedy species, andsevere browsing of Cornus sericea (red-osier dogwood)all point to past (and ongoing?) disturbance (grazing,browsing).

ExoticsPasture grasses, such as Phleum pratense (commontimothy), Poa palustris (fowl bluegrass), and Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass), and other exoticincreaser species, including Trifolium pratense (redclover), Medicago lupulina (black medic), and Tarax-acum officinale (common dandelion), occur on dry tomesic terraces. More mesic to hydric conditions favorPhalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass),Leucanthemum vulgare (oxeye-daisy), Tanacetumvulgare (common tansy), and Cirsium vulgare (bullthistle).

UplandsA road exists along the eastern edge of the wetland, butit probably is no more confining of the channel than thetalus slope that also borders this section of the wetland.Upstream, grazing and construction of homesites isoccurring within the riparian corridor.

Information NeedsIs this a management allotment or is the heavy browsingon Cornus sericea (red-osier dogwood) all attributable towild ungulates?

Management NeedsA weed management plan is needed to keep out Euphor-bia esula (leafy spurge). This is a very aggressive

noxious weed and was noted along the trail to GreenMountain in the vicinity of Natural Bridge. Phalarisarundinacea (reed canarygrass) is also very aggressiveand should be controlled.

Big Lake

DirectionsBig Lake is north of the Yellowstone River in southcentral Montana. From Molt, 22 miles west of Billings onState Route 302, travel 10 miles northwesterly to WheatBasin Road. Proceed approximately 1 mile southeasterlyon Wheat Basin Road to Big Lake.

DescriptionThis site is composed of a large, shallow lake basin. BigLake has no outlet, and is the recipient of water fromseveral intermittent creeks. During wet climatic periods(e.g., several years with above average precipitation), itfills with water. However, during drier periods, it dries upand leaves expansive, unvegetated, alkaline mud flats.Agropyron cristatum (crested wheatgrass) is common inthe adjacent uplands. Big Lake, like the nearby Hailstoneand Halfbreed Wildlife Refuges, has little in the way ofemergent vegetation. Parts of the large saline mud flatsare covered with a Salicornia rubra (red glasswort)community, but in general these flats are unvegetated.The next higher community along a topographic andmoisture gradient is Distichlis spicata (saltgrass), whichoccurs on flat areas slightly above the mud flats on theedges of Big Lake. Slightly above the Distichlis spicatacommunity is a Schoenoplectus pungens (threesquare)community. This community also occurs as a narrowband around some parts of the edge of Big Lake. AHordeum jubatum (foxtail barley) community occurs inthe driest position on the site, above the two previouscommunities. One of the inlet creeks has been im-pounded to form a small wetland that commonly hasstanding water for part of the year. The neighboringborrow pit (where fill material for the impoundment wastaken from) also had standing water at the time of the sitevisit, with Stuckenia pectinata (sago pondweed) and thegreen alga Chara present.

Key Environmental FactorsVariation in landform, heavy-textured soils (and associ-ated slow-drainage), and seasonal flooding of the basinsetting structure this site’s wetlands.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. A sizeableoccurrence of Salicornia rubra (red glasswort), G2G3,was documented.

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Other ValuesBig Lake is an important migratory bird stopover and abreeding production site when it has water; it supportsabundant Stuckenia pectinata (sago pondweed) in theaquatic portions and Schoenoplectus acutus (hardstembulrush) and Schoenoplectus pungens (threesquare) asemergent vegetation, all of which constitute importantwaterfowl food sources.

Land UseAt Big Lake and Pond 1f, hunting is the only allowedactivity; at Pond 2 hunting and grazing is permitted.Grazing has caused conspicuous hummocking in thisarea.

ExoticsThere are numerous exotics in the wet meadow vegeta-tion, including Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweetclover), Thinopyrum intermedium (intermediate wheat-grass), Kochia scoparia (summer cypress), Sonchusspp. (sow-thistle), Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle), andCirsium arvense (Canada thistle). Several exotic speciesalso occur in the surrounding uplands, includingAgropyron cristatum (crested wheatgrass), Salsola kali(Russian thistle) and Chenopodium album(lambsquater). The only exception to this pattern ofdisturbance-vegetation is the south side of Big Lake,where Artemisia cana is dominant with Stipa spp.(needlegrass) and native forbs comprising the under-growth.

UplandsThere is a buffer where no farming or grazing occurs inthe uplands immediately adjacent to the wetland.Adjacent to this buffer, the uplands are managed fordryland wheat farming.

Information NeedsThe water source for the ponds is unknown but assumedto be groundwater. Big Lake and ponds in the immediatevicinity have emergent vegetation, whereas those pondsfurther removed apparently do not. Is excessive alkalin-ity a factor?

Management NeedsA management plan for exotics should be developed,although the exotics do not significantly negativelyimpact the value of the wetlands to waterfowl.

Blacktail Ponds

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau, ponds on a rim above Blacktail DeerCreek along the Loop Road to Tower Junction about 6miles east of Mammoth. The ponds are easily accessible,

and lie in a low, flat open valley just to the north of theroad.

DescriptionThe ponds lie in an open flat drainage between BlacktailDeer Creek to the east and Lupine Creek. There appearsto be either an old lateral moraine or a basalt outcrop onthe west bank of Blacktail Deer Creek, which is a naturaldam, blocking drainage to the Creek. The ponds neverfreeze over because they are spring-fed. The valleyseems to have filled up with silt over time and lies about50 feet above Blacktail Deer Creek; it is visually reminis-cent of a hanging valley, but is probably not this type offormation in actuality. The surrounding area is open andunforested, composed mostly of rolling hills withexposed basalt outcrops where there is little soil. The soilin the valley has been characterized as a histisol - wet, atendency to be anaerobic, and highly organic. There is agreat deal of Carex in the open valley, mixed with forbsand grasses. Ducks are known to use the pond; it isexpected that large ungulates forage in the area. Grizzlybears frequent the area according to J. Whipple. Theponds have a classic floating edge of plants. The valleyseems to drain both to the east into Blacktail Deer Creekand west into Lupine Creek, which eventually drains intothe Gardner River.

Key Environmental FactorsHydrology and topography.


RarityThis area is known for bird nesting, and disturbance byfisherman may be a problem. The elements concentratedin the area have GRanks of G4 and G5; none of theoccurrences have been ranked, but they may not rankvery high due to the heavy use of the area by fisherman.Large ungulates and grizzly bears are known to be in thearea, but we do not have specific documentation at thistime.

Other ValuesHigh quality scenery.

Land UseSince the site lies close to the road, it receives heavy useby fisherman and hikers. There is a hiking trail all aroundthe valley, offering easy access to the site. The LoopRoad is on the south edge of the site; parking is avail-able.

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ExoticsSurvey is needed to establish presence or absence ofexotic plants.

Information NeedsSurvey for elements within the site and to establish moredefinite boundaries.

Bluewater Springs

DirectionsThe Bluewater Springs site is located along BluewaterCreek, approximately 5 miles southeast of Fromberg and5 miles northeast of Bridger, MT. From Bridger, take thecounty road east to East Bridger, then south and easttowards Bluewater Fish Hatchery, about 5.5 miles fromEast Bridger.

DescriptionThis site consists of a series of springs along BluewaterCreek and several of its tributaries. Soils are fairly sandyand calcareous and are derived from Chugwater sand-stone interbedded with thin lenses of limestone. Thesprings support species-rich wet or saturated meadows,many of which have extensive marl deposits. Wet areasadjacent to springs support populations of Eleocharisrostellata (beaked spikerush), Carex aquatilis (watersedge), Carex aurea (gold sedge), Carex pellita (woollysedge), and Juncus tracyi (Tracy’s rush). A healthypopulation of Epipactis gigantea (giant helleborine)with Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum (watercress),Platanthera hyperborea (northern green orchid), andMimulus guttatus (seep monkeyflower) occurs aroundone of the upper springs. This site also includes anundeveloped thermal spring, Bluewater warm spring,which flows into Bluewater Creek. Bluewater Creeksupports riparian areas that vary in condition dependingon grazing intensity.

Key Environmental FactorsSurface and subsurface seeps and springs are critical inmaintaining this site. Geothermal activity and calcareoussubstrate are also important factors.

RarityThe wet meadows support several rare plant species,including Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed), S1 G5,Epipactis gigantea (giant helleborine), S2 G5, Eupato-rium maculatum var. bruneri (Joe-pye weed), S2 G5, andEleocharis rostellata (beaked spikerush), S2 G5.Lampropeltis triangulum (milk snake) is recorded fromthis site. Springs and seeps as well as thermal springsare rare features, especially in this arid region of thestate.

Land UseThe springs are largely undeveloped, except for onespring along the North Fork of Bluewater Creek that hassome development for domestic use. Portions of theriparian areas and adjacent grasslands have beendisturbed and degraded by overgrazing.

ExoticsEuphorbia esula (leafy spurge) is abundant andincreasing at this site. Phalaris arundinacea (reedcanarygrass) has invaded some of the wet meadows.Pasture grasses, such as Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass) and Bromus inermis (smooth brome), occur ingrasslands adjacent to the springs and some of the driermeadows.

UplandsBottomland adjacent to seeps/springs and riparian areashas been converted into hay pastures in places. Vegeta-tion on the canyon walls and rims is in good condition.

Information NeedsPlant community surveys are needed, as are additionalsurveys for plants and animals. The warm springs couldpotentially harbor rare or endemic aquatic insects, andspecific surveys for these aquatic insects should beundertaken.

Boulder Forks

DirectionsNote: A portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access that area.The Boulder Forks site is located in the foothills of theBeartooth Mountains in south central Montana. FromMcLeod, travel south on State Route 298 for approxi-mately 0.5 mile. After crossing the West Boulder, turnwest (left) at the Boulder Forks Fishing Access.

DescriptionThis site is located at the confluence of the West andMain Boulder Rivers. Much of the site occupies anarrow floodplain and low terrace between the activechannel and a high terrace dominated by the exotic grassBromus inermis (smooth brome). Populus balsamiferasap. trichocarpa (black cottonwood) communitiesoccupy most of this floodplain/terrace. Most cotton-wood stands are a Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community. The shrub component ofthis community varies from diverse and well developedto sparse, and exotic grasses dominate the herbaceouslayer. The most degraded stands are classified as aPopulus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / mesicgraminoids community: they have almost no shrubcomponent and a dense cover of Bromus inermis

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dominates the herbaceous layer. A senescent stand ofcottonwood on a low terrace, with large gaps created bytree mortality, has succeeded to a Symphoricarposoccidentalis (western snowberry) community. Oldchannels and swales support small Salix lutea /Calamagrostis canadensis (yellow willow / bluejointreedgrass) and Carex utriculata (beaked sedge)communities, which form mesic inclusions within thecottonwood stands. At the southern end of the site onthe Main Boulder River, an overflow channel has createda ponded area that supports Carex utriculata, aquatic,and Salix lutea / Carex utriculata communities. Scat-tered mature Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir)occupy portions of the slope between the floodplain andhigh terrace.

This site also contains two seep areas. An old beaverdam that is silting in has modified one. Typha latifolia(broadleaf cattail) occupies areas of greater sedimentdeposition. Deeper portions of the pond support anaquatic community made up of Sparganiumangustifolium (narrowleaf bur-reed), Hippuris vulgaris(common mare’s-tail), Ranunculus gmelinii (Gmelin’sbuttercup), and Potamogeton sp. (pondweed). The otherseep area is fed by outflow from an irrigation ditch. Itmay also receive groundwater from the uplands. Theseep edges are dominated by Juncus balticus (Balticrush) and have a high cover of Cirsium arvense (Canadathistle). Wetter areas support a Carex utriculatacommunity co-dominated by Carex aquatilis (watersedge) and Glyceria striata (fowl mannagrass), and thewettest areas are dominated by Carex utriculata withTypha latifolia. Salix exigua (sandbar willow) and Salixlutea / Carex utriculata communities occur along theoutflow swale of this seep area.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and groundwater seepage is theprimary factors influencing vegetation at this site.Castor canadensis (beaver) modification, hydrologicaugmentation from an irrigation ditch, and past grazingpractices is also important influences.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.Two G3 communities, Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) and Salix lutea / Calamagrostiscanadensis (yellow willow / bluejoint reedgrass), weredocumented in fair condition.

Land UseA portion of this site is Montana Department of Fish,Wildlife & Parks fishing access site, and it receives highlevels of recreational use. However, road and camp-ground development is restricted to the high terrace, and

the site appears to be little affected by this use. Theprivate portion of the site is not currently grazed andappears to receive little use.

ExoticsHerbaceous exotic species are abundant in drier portionsof this site, such as cottonwood stands and the marginsof seeps, and often dominate the ground layer incottonwood communities. Abundant species includeBromus inermis (smooth brome), Poa pratensis (Ken-tucky bluegrass), and Dactylis glomerata (orchardgrass). Other common weeds are Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue), Cirsium arvense (Canadathistle), Phalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass),Arctium sp. (burdock), and Thlaspi arvense (penny-cress). There are small patches of Euphorbia esula(leafy spurge) along the Main Boulder.

UplandsThe riparian zone is very linear and has been greatlyinfluenced by grazing. In some areas it has been reducedto a Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) disclimax. Thesite is adjacent to the town of McLeod.

Information NeedsWhat is the grazing history? Is the dominance of exoticgrasses, especially on the high terrace, a grazingdisclimax? Was Bromus inermis (smooth brome)seeded? Is the grazing history of the Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (blackcottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community differentfrom the Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / mesicgraminoids community?

Management NeedsSome of the noxious weeds, such as Euphorbia esula(leafy spurge) and Cynoglossum officinale (hound’stongue), are still localized and could be eradicated orcontained.

Bull Springs

DirectionsBull Springs is located in the foothills and high plains ofsouth central Montana. From Red Lodge, travel north onU.S. Highway 212 for approximately 5.5 miles. Turn easton a dirt road that is signed for Rock Creek fishingaccess. Follow this road for approximately 0.5 mile. Aftercrossing Rock Creek, turn left at a T-intersection. TheBull Springs Fishing Access is just past the intersectionon the left.

DescriptionBull Springs occurs in the floodplain of Rock Creek andis characterized by cottonwood gallery forests andwillow communities along wet swales. Rock Creek is

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braided with two or three primary channels and manyswales, some of which intersect riverine groundwaterand have standing or flowing water. These wetmicrosites occur as narrow stringers within cottonwoodcommunities and support a Salix boothii /Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow / bluejointreedgrass) association. Dominant shrubs are Salixboothii, Alnus incana (mountain alder), and Betulaoccidentalis (water birch). Calamagrostis canadensisdominates the herbaceous layer, except for the wettestlocations in and immediately adjacent to swales, whichhave high cover of Carex utriculata.

The remainder of the site occurs on higher floodplaindeposits that predominately support Populusbalsamifera saps. trichocarpa (black cottonwood)communities. The largest community is Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / mesic graminoids. Anopen canopy of mature Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa characterizes this community. Saplings(probably from suckering) form a scattered midstory, andclumps of Juniperus communis (common juniper) form aminor shrub component. Poa pratensis dominates theherbaceous layer with Centaurea maculosa (spottedknapweed) present at low cover. Microtopographic reliefprovides small mesic swales where native herbaceousspecies are abundant. These include Calamagrostiscanadensis, Poa glaucifolia (pale-leaf bluegrass), Carexaenea (bronze sedge), and Equisetum arvense (fieldhorsetail). A smaller Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) association also occurs at the site.Similar to the previous community, this community alsohas an open overstory of mature Populus balsamiferasap. trichocarpa, but the shrub component is muchbetter developed. The diagnostic shrub Cornus sericeais very restricted and present at very low cover. Prunusvirginiana (chokecherry) is abundant and is the domi-nant shrub; Alnus incana and Symphoricarposoccidentalis (western snowberry) are present at lowcover. Elymus glaucus (blue wildrye) and Poa pratensis,both of which are abundant, dominate the herbaceouslayer. Calamagrostis canadensis is locally abundant innumerous shallow swales. The exotics Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue) and Dactylis glomerata(orchard grass) are present at low cover and Bromusinermis is well represented. Finally, the site also sup-ports a small undescribed Populus tremuloides /Symphoricarpos occidentalis community. Populustremuloides forms a closed canopy, and Prunusvirginiana forms a scattered midstory. Symphoricarposoccidentalis is very abundant throughout. Poapratensis is abundant and is the dominant herbaceousspecies, except in swales where Calamagrostiscanadensis is locally dominant. Herbaceous openingshave a high cover of exotic species, such asCynoglossum officinale, Cirsium spp. (thistle), Centau-

rea maculosa, and Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge).Beaver-caused mortality may be limiting Populustremuloides regeneration in places.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and high groundwater tables areresponsible for creating and maintaining the structureand composition of the plant associations at this site.Browsing by native ungulates and beaver and possiblepast browsing by livestock may be responsible for thesparse shrub layer in the majority of the site. This couldalso be explained by differences in soil or geomorphiccharacteristics.

RarityNo special status plants or animals were observed. OneG3? community, Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa /Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood),and one undescribed community, Populus tremuloides /Symphoricarpos occidentalis (quaking aspen / westernsnowberry), were documented. (The Populustremuloides / Symphoricarpos occidentalis communityappears to be similar to the G3? ranked Populustremuloides / Symphoricarpos albus [quaking aspen /common snowberry] community.) Both were only in faircondition, primarily due to the presence of exotics.


Land UseDespite being a dedicated recreation site, there is littleevidence of use, except for a few trails and some garbagenear the parking area.

ExoticsPasture grasses, especially Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), dominates the ground layer. Centaureamaculosa (spotted knapweed) and Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue) occur at low cover overmuch of the site. Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge) ispresent (for now) as one patch.

UplandsNative vegetation occupies the floodplain of Rock Creekalong the active channels immediately up and down-stream of the site. Adjacent to this corridor, human uses(pasture, houses) dominate, and portions of the flood-plain further away from the active channel are grazed.

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Information NeedsHow do irrigation diversions affect the functionality ofthe site? What was the grazing history of this site beforethe Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks acquired it? Isthe paucity of shrubs in cottonwood stands throughoutmuch of the site a product of past livestock grazing, or isit a result of differences in soil texture or geomorphiccharacteristics?

Management NeedsAlthough pasture grasses are very well established atthe site, noxious weeds, such as Centaurea maculosa(spotted knapweed), Cynoglossum officinale (hound’stongue), and Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge), arecurrently present at low cover and should be eradicatedor controlled with a weed management plan.

Chapman Bench

DirectionsClark’s Fork Basin, near the foothills of the AbsarokaMountains on Chapman Bench, which is bounded by PatO’Hara Creek to the west and Little Sand Coulee to theeast. The site extends from the edge of the bench at thesouth to the Clark’s Fork River at the north. The site isbisected by Wy Hwy 120, and is about 17-23 mi north ofCody.

DescriptionChapman Bench is a rather subtle bench, lying in a +/-north-south direction and sloping from a high point inthe south some 7 mi to the Clark’s Fork River. The benchseems to made up of Quaternary terrace depositsoverlying the Willwood Formation, a fossil-rich formationof Eocene origin that is fairly common in the BighornBasin. The bench is fairly flat, but does drop off on theedges, to Pat O’Hara Creek, Little Sand Coulee and theClark’s Fork River after it issues out of the Clark’s ForkCanyon. The edge of the bench at the south is rathervague with only a slight change in slope between thebench and the land to the south. In general, the Bench iscovered with a sagebrush grassland community, al-though the site includes Pat O’Hara Creek to afford awater source for the animals that live here. The nearly flattopography is attractive to mountain plovers and long-billed curlews for nesting habitat.

Key Environmental FactorsWater in the surrounding streams that have eroded awayand defined the bench is necessary for nesting prefer-ence for the birds.

ClimateThe dry, nearly desert conditions contribute to the verylow vegetation, which is preferred nesting habitat.

RaritySite provides important habitat for nesting mountainplovers, a G2 species that is declining. It also supportsother avian fauna.

Information NeedsSite visit to establish better boundaries, confirm currentpresence of elements.

Chrome Lake

DirectionsNote: a portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access this area.Chrome Lake is located in the Beartooth Mountains ofsouth central Montana. From Dean, travel southwesterlyon Benbow Road for 11.5 miles to an intersection with anun-named 4-wheel drive road to the south. Proceedsoutherly on the un-named road for 0.6 mile to the first ofthree Chrome Lake wetlands.

DescriptionThis wetland is a fen that occurs in a relatively narrowdrainage divide in the subalpine zone in the BeartoothMountains. The fen is fed by groundwater seeps fromthe two adjoining toe slopes, and it drains in twoopposite directions via surface water: to the southeastinto Chrome Lake, and to the northwest into a smallcreek. Smaller fens also occur along the outflow streams.Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine), Pinus albicaulis(whitebark pine), and Vaccinium scoparium (grousewhortleberry) dominate the upland. The wetland isdominated by what appears to be a raised and patternedfen: small ridges or “strings” parallel each other and areseparated from one another by small troughs or “flarks.”The flarks are wetter and dominated by a Carexutriculata (beaked sedge) community, which is a fairlyspecies rich example of this type of community. Associ-ated species include Carex aquatilis (water sedge),Carex aurea (golden sedge), Eriophorum polystachion(many-spiked cottongrass), Caltha leptosepala (whitemarsh-marigold), Utricularia minor (lesser bladderwort),and brown mosses. The strings or ridges are drier anddominated by a Salix planifolia / Carex aquatilis(planeleaf willow / water sedge) community, which hasthe following associated species: Dasiphora fruticosasap. floribunda (shrubby cinquefoil), Carex utriculata,Caltha leptosepala, Symphyotrichum foliaceum (=Asterfoliaceus, leafy aster), Antennaria corymbosa (flat-topped pussytoes), and Sphagnum (a group of mossesassociated with poor fens and bogs). This communityalso occurs along the outflow streams. Wet areas awayfrom these streams are dominated by Carex utriculata.Chrome Lake has an aquatic community of Potamogetongramineus (grassy pondweed), Potamogetonamplifolius (large-leafed pondweed), and Sparganium

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sp. (bur-reed). A small, undescribed community, domi-nated by Salix glauca (glaucus willow) and Carexaquatilis, occurs between one of the fens and theupland forest.

Key Environmental FactorsSprings and seeps produce the waters necessary tomaintain this raised fen and the associated vegetationpatterns.

RarityNo special status plants, animals, or communities wereobserved. However, this site is a high quality example ofa patterned fen, which is a regionally rare wetland typewith only a few other such fens known from the state.

Other ValuesRana pretiosa (spotted frog) and Pseudacris triseriata(western chorus frog) were noted in a number of the fencommunities.

Land UseThe main fen has ATV tracks.

ExoticsNo exotics were documented.

UplandsMining and associated roads and woodcutting hasoccurred in the past. Currently there is no active mining,but hunting, ATV use, and hiking does occur.

Information NeedsHas the hydrology of the site been affected by mining?

Management NeedsATV use of the site should be halted.

Clark’s Fork Waterfowl ProductionArea

DirectionsClark’s Fork Waterfowl Production Area is adjacent tothe Clark’s Fork Yellowstone River in south centralMontana. From Bridger, travel 0.75 mile north on StateRoute 310. Proceed east for 0.5 mile on an un-namedroad and then travel north for 0.25 miles to Clark’s ForkWaterfowl Production Area.

DescriptionThis site is a human-created marsh located in the historicfloodplain of the Clark’s Fork of the Yellowstone River.Although a high-magnitude flood event could inundatethis wetland, the chief water source is groundwater thatis perched on a relatively impermeable clay layer. The

marsh is created by a small impoundment that blockswater flow. The water drains back to the river through asaturated meadow. The marsh is dominated by a Typhalatifolia (broadleaf cattail) community, which occurs inone to several feet of standing water. A diverse aquaticplant community occurs in the open water of the marsh.The following species were observed in this community:Potamogeton richardsonii (red-head pondweed),Polygonum amphibium (water smartweed), Ranunculusaquatilis (water crowfoot), Myriophyllum sibiricum(Siberian water milfoil), Sagittaria cuneata (arumleafarrowhead), Lemna minor (common duckweed), Alismagramineum (narrowleaf waterplantain), and the greenalga Chara. A large wet meadow planted withThinopyrum intermedium (intermediate wheatgrass)occurs next to the marsh and is dominated by a densestand of this exotic grass. Below the marsh in thedrainage pathway are stands of Schoenoplectus acutus(hardstem bulrush) and Juncus balticus (Baltic rush). APopulus angustifolia / Symphoricarpos occidentalis(narrowleaf cottonwood / western snowberry) ripariancommunity occurs along the river. Although thecommunity keys to narrowleaf cottonwood / westernsnowberry, the shrub understory is dominated byElaeagnus angustifolia (Russian olive) and Rhustrilobata (smooth sumac). On the same terrace, adjacentto the cottonwood stand, is a community of the exoticgrass Bromus inermis (smooth brome).

Key Environmental FactorsGroundwater draining from uplands, intercepted andperched by a relatively impermeable clay layer andimpounded by a manmade structure, is the reason thiswetland site exits.

RarityThis is a created wetland and no rare plants, animals, orcommunities were observed.

Other ValuesThis wetland site was created to stimulate waterfowlproduction (and breeding populations of Anasplatyrhynchos [mallards] and Anas arcuta [pintails] wereobserved). The marsh appears to have an abundance ofaquatic foods for waterfowl, in addition to hiding andbreeding cover. Other wildlife noted during the site visitincluded Ardea herodias (great blue heron), Podilymbuspodiceps (pie-billed grebe), Bufo woodhousii(Woodhouse’s toad), and Odocoileus virginianus(whitetail deer).

Land UseThe composition of much of the wetland site is plantedpasture grasses, including Bromus inermis (smoothbrome), Thinopyrum intermedium (intermediate wheat-grass), and Dactylis glomerata (orchard grass).

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ExoticsA number of noxious weeds/increasers are present,although they are not yet abundant. These speciesinclude Centaurea maculosa (spotted knapweed),Kochia scoparia (summer cypress), Euphorbia esula(leafy spurge), Chenopodium album (lambsquater),Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweet-clover), Taraxacumofficinalis (common dandelion), Elymus repens(quackgrass), Tamarix chinensis (salt cedar), andConvolvulus arvensis (field morning-glory).

UplandsThe adjacent uplands are farmed for corn and wheat andgrazed by livestock, and these uplands probably serveas the source for most of the weed and increaser species.

Information NeedsThe source of water for this site has not been pin-pointed; is it the ditch or the river? The history of thesite has not been documented: was it farmed or did itmerely serve as unimproved rangeland?

Management NeedsThe marsh portion appears to be functioning well,producing abundant aquatic vegetation and, as aconsequence, waterfowl. However, the uplands and wetmeadow portion of the WPA are dominated by exotics,and a plan to reduce their coverage and concomitantlyincrease that of native species needs to be explored.

Clay Butte / Beartooth Butte

DirectionsBeartooth Plateau, Beartooth and Clay Buttes on northside of US Highway 212, about 7.5 road miles east ofjunction with WY highway 296. The site boundaryfollows the 9000 ft contour interval on the west slope ofClay Butte and includes the calcareous wetland justsouth of the Clay Butte lookout Road (on the south sideof US 212).

DescriptionThis site includes the summits and upper slopes ofBeartooth and Clay Buttes, which are remnant caps ofsedimentary substrates (including limestone and shales).The area is unique on the Beartooth Plateau, which isotherwise entirely Precambrian granite and gneiss. Thesummits and upper slopes of these buttes contain amosaic of talus and tundra communities. A calcareousfloating mat wetland is found to the south of Clay Buttethat contains a number of boreal disjunct sedgespeciesThe east face of Beartooth Butte containsinclusions of the Beartooth Butte Formation, a Devonianstrata well known for fossil fish.

Key Environmental FactorsThe boundary was selected to incorporate the entirerange of a suite of rare endemic alpine mustard speciesthat are restricted to the calcareous summits and upperslopes of Clay and Beartooth buttes. In addition, acalcareous floating mat wetland to the south of ClayButte contains a number of boreal disjunct sedgespecies. The area is important wildlife habitat.

RarityThis site contains the world’s only occurrence of Comb-hair whitlow-grass (Draba pectinipila). Little snowdraba (Draba porsildii var. brevicula), a rare regionalendemic, also occurs here, as do high quality occur-rences of 11 other state and regionally rare or disjunctplant species. Locations for spotted frog may also occurin the area, as might an undescribed subspecies of redfox.

Other ValuesArea is important wildlife habitat and is a popularrecreation destination for sight-seeing (tremendousviews are possible from the tower on Clay Butte).

Land UseFire lookout, visited by tourists. Campground onBeartooth Lake.

Information NeedsPeriodic monitoring is needed to gauge the abundanceand trends of elements of interest within the site.

Management NeedsThis is a potential resource natural area (RNA).

Crater Fen

DirectionsThe Crater Fen site is located in the foothills of theBeartooth Mountains in south central Montana. FromFishtail, travel west and south on State Highway 419 forapproximately 1 mile to the intersection with StateHighway 425. Turn onto State Highway 425 and travelsouth for approximately 6 miles to the intersection withForest Route 2072. Travel south on this road forapproximately 5 miles. Park just before the cattle guardwhere the road crosses onto the Lazy E-L Ranch. Travelwest across the ridge that separates the West Rosebudfrom East Fork Fiddler Creek. The East Fork of FiddlerCreek lies on the other side of the ridge approximately 1mile from the road.

DescriptionThis site occurs above Crater Lake in a cold air pondingglacial kettle. The site is a poor fen that receives

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groundwater from the adjacent toe slopes. The southernhalf of the fen is mixed mire with boglike Sphagnumhummocks interspersed with poorly vegetated flats.Common Sphagna include Sphagnum warnstorfii,Sphagnum fuscum, and Sphagnum teres. Sphagnumhummocks are relatively diverse and support a stuntedBetula glandulosa / Carex utriculata (bog birch /beaked sedge) community co-dominated by Dasiphorafruticosa sap. floribunda (shrubby cinquefoil). Othercommon vascular species include Salix planifolia(planeleaf willow), Carex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge),Calamagrostis canadensis (bluejoint reedgrass),Menyanthes trifoliata (bog buckbean), and Liliumphiladelphicum (red lily). Interspersed among thesehummocks is a depauperate Carex buxbaumii commu-nity that occurs on bare peat flats. This communitybecomes dominant in the northern portion of the basin,where it forms a flat/mound complex. Somewhat highermicrosites have small inclusions of Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis (mountain alder / bluejointreedgrass) shrubland. Nuphar lutea sap. polysepala(yellow pond-lily) occupies a narrow open water band inthe center of the basin.

Key Environmental FactorsSaturation from groundwater and the stability of thehydrologic regime are key factors that influence the site’svegetation. The Carex buxbaumii community isseasonally inundated. The surrounding uplands areunderlain by glacial till derived from granitic gneiss;correspondingly, the groundwater draining into the siteis nutrient poor. This greatly influences the site’sfloristic composition and explains the abundance ofSphagnum. There is a small eastern outlet that flowsseasonally and the intactness of the eastern rim is criticalto the hydrological stability of the basin. This wetland isan autotrophic system with peat (derived from Sphag-num and sedge species) accumulation.

RarityNo special status plants or animals were observed. OneG3 community, Carex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge),was observed.

Other ValuesThis site is an excellent example of a poor fen, which is aregionally rare wetland type. The site has relatively highspecies and microhabitat diversity for a poor fen.

Land UseNo evident human uses.

ExoticsNo exotic species were observed.

UplandsThe uplands are dominated by Pinus contorta (lodge-pole pine) on morainal substrate derived from graniticgneissic parent material.

Information NeedsCrater Fen is the highest in a cluster of three wetlands.The other two wetlands are open water bodies that maywarrant further consideration: deep-water Crater Lakeand Lily Pad Lake, which is a shallow-water open lake tothe south with a shoreline border that has some of thesame peat-forming sedges as found in Crater Fen.

Management NeedsThe uplands surrounding the fen should be managedsuch that the hydrology and water chemistry of the siteremain undisturbed.

Dry Fork Creek Marshes

DirectionsThis site is located in the foothills of the BeartoothMountains in south central Montana. From McLeod,travel south on State Route 298 for approximately 2.5miles. Take the East Boulder Road for approximately 10miles. The site is located about a mile past the lockedgate.

DescriptionThis group of depressional wetlands is probably glacialin origin. They are dominated by either aquatic or marshvegetation. The water source for each of the wetlands isan intermittent creek, and either groundwater or anintermittent creek drains each wetland. The uplands aredominated by Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine) forest.

A Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) community domi-nates substantial portions of each wetland in areas thatare seasonally flooded. One wetland has a diverseaquatic community, which includes Hippuris vulgaris(common mare’s-tail), Stuckenia pectinata (sagopondweed), Ranunculus aquatilis (water crowfoot), andthe green alga Chara. The other has extensive seepsalong one margin that support an undescribed sprucecommunity, which has an Picea engelmannii (Engel-mann spruce) overstory and a diverse understory,dominated by Ledum glandulosum (Labrador tea). Thissecond wetland has a Carex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’ssedge) community that occurs on the margins of thedepression, and a small patch of an undescribed sedgetype, dominated by Carex flava (yellow sedge), whichoccurs in a seepy area. The bottom of the open waterportion of this wetland is marl covered, and springsbubble up from the bottom of the open water portion in afew areas.

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Key Environmental FactorsThe hydrologic regime (seasonal flooding) and calcare-ous parent material appear to be the primary influence onplant community structure and composition.

RarityA population of Eleocharis rostellata (beakedspikerush), S2G5, occurs in the marsh. A high qualityoccurrence of a rare community, Carex buxbaumii(Buxbaum’s sedge), G3, was documented.

Land UseCurrent land use appears restricted to occasional use byhunters. This site may have been grazed in the past, asevidenced by the presence of Phleum pratense (commontimothy) and the native increaser Prunella vulgaris(selfheal) in drier portions of the site.

ExoticsPasture grasses (Poa palustris [fowl bluegrass], Phleumpratense [common timothy], Poa pratensis [Kentuckybluegrass]), Trifolium pratense (red clover), andPhalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) are present atlow cover. This may be indicative of past grazing at thesite.

UplandsThe surrounding upland forest is intact. There arenearby mining claims, and one claim is adjacent to one ofthe marshes.

Information NeedsWhat is the status and scope of the adjacent miningclaims? A series of groundwater monitoring wells areadjacent to one of the marshes - what is their purpose?

Management NeedsThe intact character of the uplands and the correspond-ing hydrologic regime are essential to the integrity andfunctioning of these wetlands.

East Boulder River

DirectionsThe East Boulder Site is located on the north face of theBeartooth Range, approximately 23 miles southwest ofBig Timber, MT, and within the Gallatin National Forestboundary. The site is accessed via Highway 298 South,from Big Timber, and turning onto the East BoulderRoad, three miles south of McLeod, MT. At the ForestService boundary, follow Forest Service Road 205. Thesite is approximately 1.5 miles south of the end of FSRoad 205.

DescriptionThe site is the upper East Boulder River watershed, fromthe confluence with Burnt Gulch to the headwaters. Thiswatershed contains populations of pure Oncorhynchusclarki bouvieri (Yellowstone cutthroat trout), withoutcontaminating species, and substantial habitat value.Grizzly bear may use this area. Elevations range from8200 ft. (2500 m) to 10145 ft. (3093 m).

RarityThis site is valuable as important habitat for geneticallypure Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri (Yellowstonecutthroat trout), Ursus arctos horribilis (grizzly bear)and Lynx canadensis (Canada lynx).

ExoticsRainbow, brook and brown trout occur downstream fromthis site.

Information NeedsInformation of the existence and distribution of barriersto fish movement is needed. Also, surveys for plants,animals and vegetation communities of special concernare needed.

East Fork Fiddler Creek Complex

DirectionsThe East Fork Fiddler Creek site is located in the foothillsof the Beartooth Mountains in south central Montana.From Fishtail, travel west and south on State Highway419 for approximately 1 mile to the intersection with StateHighway 425. Turn onto State Highway 425 and travelsouth for approximately 6 miles to the intersection withForest Route 2072. Travel south on this road forapproximately 5 miles. Park just before the cattle guardwhere the road crosses onto the Lazy E-L Ranch. Travelwest across the ridge that separates the West Rosebudfrom East Fork Fiddler Creek. The East Fork of FiddlerCreek lies on the other side of the ridge approximately 1mile from the road.

DescriptionThe East Fork Fiddler Creek site is a complex of willowbottomlands and Castor canadensis (beaver)-influencedwetlands associated with East Fork Fiddler Creek, narrowdraws, and lakes and kettles formed by past glaciation. ASalix boothii / Carex utriculata (Booth’s willow /beaked sedge) community occupies much of the bottom-land along East Fork Fiddler Creek. Carex utriculatadominates in wet swales; Calamagrostis canadensis(bluejoint reedgrass) and Phleum pratense (commontimothy) are dominant on higher microsites. On highersites, this community grades into a Populus tremuloides/ Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen / bluejointreedgrass) community. Phleum pratense completely

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replaces Calamagrostis canadensis on drier portions ofthe toe and lower slope. The uplands are Pinus contorta(lodgepole pine) forest.

On higher sections of Fiddler Creek, the riparian zone isvery narrow and has been influenced in places by pastbeaver activity. Drained and silted in beaver dams havecreated substrate for marsh communities. Wetter sitessupport an undescribed community with high cover ofGlyceria grandis (northern mannagrass), Carexcanescens (gray sedge), Agrostis scabra (ticklegrass),and Sparganium angustifolium (narrowleaf bur-reed). ACarex utriculata community dominates slightly drier sites.Interspersed with and fringing these beaver ponds areSalix geyeriana / Calamagrostis canadensis (Geyer’swillow / bluejoint reedgrass) and Alnus incana (moun-tain alder) communities.

This site also has narrow seepy draws. These support aPopulus tremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensiscommunity interspersed with Salix boothii / Carexutriculata and Alnus incana communities. These drawsfeed into a series of small glacially-formed kettle potholesthat support a Carex utriculata community fringed bySalix geyeriana / Calamagrostis canadensis. A largerglacial depression, Lily Pad Lake, also occurs on the site.A Nuphar lutea sap. polysepala (yellow pond-lily)community covers much of the lake surface, and the lakeis fringed by a narrow band of Carex buxbaumii(Buxbaum’s sedge) and a small patch of Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and high groundwater tables are theprimary factors influencing vegetation. Past beaveractivity is also important in creating more mesic sub-strate.

RarityNo special status plants or animals were observed. OneG3 plant community, Populus tremuloides /Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen / bluejointreedgrass), was documented.

Other ValuesA breeding pair of Grus canadensis (sandhill cranes)with a fledgling was observed.

Land UseMesic sites along the East Fork Fiddler Creek bottom-lands are dominated by Phleum pratense (commontimothy), so the site was probably grazed in the past.The section contains several old roads. Otherwise landuse seems minimal.

ExoticsPhleum pratense (common timothy) and Cirsiumarvense (Canada thistle) are well established in somecommunities. Drier Populus tremuloides (quakingaspen) communities upslope of the riparian areas aredominated by Phleum pratense.

UplandsThe uplands are largely intact.

East Rosebud Complex

DirectionsEast Rosebud Complex is located in the BeartoothMountains of south central Montana. From Roscoe,travel 8 miles southwesterly on Forest Route 117 to EastRosebud Complex.

DescriptionThe East Rosebud complex of wetlands occurs in astream valley along low river terraces in which there arenumerous old river meanders. These wetlands areprimarily fed by groundwater and many have developedpeat, so it is reasonable to assume that they have a fairlystable hydrologic regime. Castor canadensis (beaver)have dammed some of the shallow streams that drain intothis complex, thus helping to maintain a high water tableat the site. The uplands are characterized by Pinuscontorta (lodgepole pine) and Populus tremuloides /Symphoricarpos occidentalis (quaking aspen / westernsnowberry) forest and Festuca idahoensis –Pseudoroegneria spicata (Idaho fescue – bluebunchwheatgrass) grassland. Open waters of the meandersand small beaver ponds support aquatic vegetation suchas Nuphar lutea (yellow pond-lily), Potamogetonpusillus (small pondweed), Potamogeton gramineus(grassy pondweed), Ranunculus aquatilis (watercrowfoot), and Utricularia vulgaris (common bladder-wort). Some of the old meanders have silted in and havedeveloped Equisetum fluviatile (water horsetail)communities, which are usually permanently flooded. Onthe margins of the open water there are Carex utriculata(beaked sedge) communities. A Salix planifolia / Carexutriculata (planeleaf willow / beaked sedge) communityoccupies slightly drier positions. This community hasstanding water and in some spots high cover of Sphag-num (moss species characteristic of poor fens and bogs).An Alnus incana (mountain alder) community alsooccurs around some of the ponds in areas with season-ally standing water. Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail)stands occur around pond outlets where standing wateris nearly continuously present. A complex of wet Piceaengelmannii (Engelmann spruce)-dominated communi-ties compose a large portion of the site. Numerous openwater channels run through these communities, andAlnus incana (mountain alder) and Carex utriculata

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(beaked sedge) are common. On slightly higher groundbetween sloughs is a Populus tremuloides /Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen / bluejointreedgrass) community that is ecotonal between wetlandand upland. This forested community has relatively highcover of exotic pasture grasses, suggesting that it mayhave been grazed at some time in the past.

Key Environmental FactorsMuch of the surrounding watershed was burned recentlywhich should at least temporarily influence the inflow ofgroundwater. Castor canadensis (beaver) have dammedshallow streams that flow through the old meanders;they continue to inhabit the wetland and feed onshrubby vegetation.

RarityGentianopsis simplex (hiker’s gentian, S1 G4) was foundin this wetland in 1989. However, attempts to relocatethis population in 1999 were unsuccessful, possibly dueto the very narrow phenological window available toidentify this species. Three relatively high qualityoccurrences of G3 plant communities, Populustremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen/ bluejoint reedgrass), Salix planifolia / Carexutriculata (planeleaf willow / beaked sedge), and Carexbuxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge) were documented at thissite.

Other ValuesAt the time of visitation several Alces alces (moose) werespotted feeding within the fen. Rana pretiosa (spottedfrogs) were also noted in the Carex utriculata (beakedsedge) and Carex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge)-dominated portions of the wetland complex. Accipitercooperi (Cooper’s hawk) was noted nesting in the nearvicinity of, and making hunting forays over, the wetland.

Land UseRecreation is the only known human use of the wetland.

ExoticsExotics, including Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass), Agrostis stolonifera(redtop), and Phleum pratense (timothy), constitute avery minor problem at this site. For the most part, theyare presently confined to the driest portion of the site(the Populus tremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensiscommunity), with a minor presence in the Salixplanifolia / Carex utriculata community.

UplandsSignificant residential development is occurring down-stream from the wetland complex. The uplands havebeen logged and lightly grazed in the past.

Information NeedsHow did the extensive burn within the watershed affectthe hydrology and in turn the vegetation?

Management NeedsThe exotic species are confined at this time to a givencommunity type or perhaps a couple of types. Amanagement plan should address the issue, and at thevery least Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle) should beeradicated.

East Rosebud Floodplain Subdivision

DirectionsNote: This site is located on private land, and landownerpermission is needed to access this site. East RosebudFloodplain Subdivision is located at the base of theBeartooth Mountains in south central Montana. FromRoscoe, travel approximately 4.5 miles southwest on FSRD 117. The midpoint of the site is located where powerlines cross the road.

DescriptionThis site is located in a glaciated valley along anunconfined reach of East Rosebud Creek. The site iscomprised of floodplain deposits interspersed withoxbows and sloughs associated with old stream mean-ders. The oxbows and sloughs are mostly silted in andsupport a Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) community.This community is variable across the site and includessmall inclusions of Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail) andCarex aquatilis (water sedge). Active Castorcanadensis (beaver) dams have maintained a significantopen water component in some oxbows. These openwater habitats support an aquatic community dominatedby Hippuris vulgaris (common mare’s tail). Gravel/cobble substrate sidebars are being colonized in placesby a Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / recentalluvial bar (black cottonwood / recent alluvial bar)community. Higher floodplain deposits are dominated bySalix boothii / Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’swillow / bluejoint reedgrass) with scattered maturePopulus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa. Although Salixboothii is abundant throughout, there are patches whereSalix bebbiana (Bebb willow) or Salix lucida sap.caudata (shining willow) are locally dominant. Thiscommunity is characterized by dense willow coverinterspersed with many small herbaceous openingsdominated by exotic grasses, primarily Phleum pratense(common timothy), Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass),and Agrostis stolonifera (redtop). Floodplain depositsalso support a Populus tremuloides / Calamagrostiscanadensis (quaking aspen / bluejoint reedgrass)community. Although this community consists of maturestands of Populus tremuloides, it also includes early-seral stands of small trees (4-5 feet high) that are

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suppressed by heavy browsing. These early-seralstands are adjacent to active beaver dams and show highbeaver use (trails, tree mortality). Pasture grasses (Poapratensis, Phleum pratense), dominate higher floodplainand terrace deposits.

Only a representative portion of the site was surveyed.The larger site also contains Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / mesic graminoids and Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (blackcottonwood / red-osier dogwood) communities, butthese stands were not inventoried.

Key Environmental FactorsPast and ongoing fluvial dynamics (flooding, erosion,and deposition) are the primary factors influencingvegetation communities. Castor canadensis (beaver)have also influenced vegetation patterns by dammingoxbows and causing tree mortality.

RarityNo species of special concern were observed. However,two G3 plant communities in good to excellent conditionwere documented: Salix boothii / Calamagrostiscanadensis (Booth’s willow / bluejoint reedgrass) andPopulus tremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis(quaking aspen / bluejoint reedgrass).

Other ValuesAlces alces (moose) sign was observed at the site.

Land UseThis site has been subdivided into approximately 15 20-to 40-acre parcels. Two 40-acre parcels, which appearedto be representative of the site, were inventoried.Despite the fragmented ownership, the site does notappear to have been developed beyond a few roads.Current land use appears to be mostly light horse grazingand recreational use. The presence of pasture grassesand the absence of willow communities from portions ofthe floodplain imply that the site has been grazed and/orhayed in the past.

ExoticsHigher portions of the floodplain are dominated by thepasture grasses Phleum pratense (common timothy) andPoa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass). These species, inaddition to Agrostis stolonifera (redtop), also dominateherbaceous openings scattered throughout the Salixboothii (Booth’s willow) community. Other exoticspecies present in low abundance are Phalarisarundinacea (reed canarygrass) and Cirsium arvense(Canada thistle), both of which occur in the Salix boothii/ Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow / bluejointreedgrass) community.

UplandsThe stream corridor, though subdivided, is still relativelyintact. Higher, drier portions have been grazed. The sitelies approximately 1 mile downstream of the CusterNational Forest boundary. Home development hasoccurred downstream of the site as well as upstream nearthe Forest Service boundary. Home development hasalso occurred on the slopes to the west of the site.

Information NeedsInventory of the parcels not surveyed might revealgreater community diversity at the site than currentlyknown. For example, Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa stands occur on the site upstream of theparcels surveyed. Only a relatively small portion of thesite was inventoried in 2000.

Management NeedsIf possible, the current intact nature of this site shouldbe maintained. Though the dispersed ownership isproblematic, conservation easements or other agree-ments might be used to conserve some or this entire site.

East Rosebud Lake

DirectionsNote: A portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access this area.East Rosebud Lake is located in the Beartooth Moun-tains in south central Montana. From Roscoe, travelsouth-southwest on Forest Route 117 for approximately13 miles to the East Rosebud trailhead and campground.The site lies at the head of East Rosebud Lake, approxi-mately 0.5 mile up Forest Trail 15.

DescriptionThis site occurs on alluvial deposits along and aroundthe inflow of East Rosebud Creek into East RosebudLake. Plant communities present include lacustrinefringe herbaceous and willow communities and wetPicea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce) forests associ-ated with the East Rosebud Creek floodplain. The lowestand wettest lacustrine fringe community is dominated byCarex utriculata (beaked sedge). This communityencompasses a topographic and soil moisture gradient.Dominance shifts from Carex utriculata in the lowestand wettest portions of the community to co-dominanceof Carex utriculata and Calamagrostis canadensis(bluejoint reedgrass) on slightly higher deposits.Somewhat higher deposits are ecotonal betweenherbaceous and willow-dominated communities, withSalix planifolia (planeleaf willow) occurring as small tomedium sized clumps. These grade into a Salixplanifolia / Calamagrostis canadensis communitycharacterized by large clumps of willows dominated bySalix planifolia and some cover of Salix lucida sap.

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caudata (shining willow), Salix boothii (Booth’s willow),and Salix bebbiana (Bebb willow). The ground layer isdominated by Calamagrostis canadensis with a sub-stantial Phleum pratense (common timothy) component.Moss also forms an important component of thiscommunity. Willows at this site have been heavilybrowsed, probably by Alces alces (moose). On slightlyhigher deposits along the floodplain of East RosebudCreek, stands of Picea engelmannii / Calamagrostiscanadensis occur. A closed canopy of mature Piceaengelmannii with a relatively depauperate herbaceouslayer dominated by Calamagrostis canadensis charac-terizes this community. Portions of this community haveburned, and are now characterized by Picea engelmanniisnags with a lush ground layer of Calamagrostiscanadensis. Picea engelmannii is also colonizing theSalix planifolia / Calamagrostis canadensis communityin places, forming small clumps of two to three sapling-sized trees.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and elevated groundwater tables areimportant in maintaining these communities. Herbivoryis also important in structuring the Salix planifolia /Calamagrostis canadensis (planeleaf willow / bluejointreedgrass) community. Fire has recently burned most ofthe upland Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine) forest andportions of the Picea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce)-dominated bottoms.

RarityNo species of special concern or state or globally rarecommunities were observed.

Land UseThe site receives recreational, especially fishing, use andthere are informal trails along East Rosebud Creek.

ExoticsPasture grasses, especially Phleum pratense (commontimothy), are abundant in mesic sites along the wetland/upland border.

UplandsThe entire shoreline of East Rosebud Lake is in privateownership and extensive small lot development hasoccurred along the north and east shores. The uplandsare composed of seral stands of Pinus contorta (lodge-pole pine), many of which recently burned. The site sitsat the edge of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Areaand is relatively undisturbed.

Information NeedsIs the presence of pasture grasses due to previouslivestock grazing or stock use?

Management NeedsNo noxious weeds were observed.

East Rosebud Oxbow

DirectionsNote: A portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access that area.The East Rosebud Oxbow site is located in the foothillsof the Beartooth Mountains in south central Montana.From Roscoe, travel south-southwest on Forest Route117 for approximately 3.5 miles. After crossing EastRosebud Creek, turn right (south) at a T-intersection.The site can be accessed immediately after this intersec-tion.

DescriptionThis site is a partially silted in oxbow in the floodplain ofEast Rosebud Creek. An Equisetum fluviatile (waterhorsetail) community with patches of Schoenoplectustabernaemontani (softstem bulrush) occupies thedeepest portion of the oxbow, which had two feet ofstanding water at the time of the field inventory. Thiscommunity grades into a Carex utriculata (beakedsedge) community along the oxbow margins. A Salixbebbiana (Bebb willow) community occurs on a terracebetween the arms of the oxbow and as a narrow anddiscontinuous band along the oxbow edge. The portionof this community that occurs on the terrace has a denseunderstory of Calamagrostis canadensis (bluejointreedgrass) and has an insignificant presence of exoticspecies. In contrast, a Populus tremuloides / Poapratensis (quaking aspen / Kentucky bluegrass) commu-nity that occupies the rest of the terrace has a high coverof the exotic pasture grasses Phleum pratense (commontimothy) and Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass).

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal groundwater fluctuations from the EastRosebud Creek are the primary influence on oxbowvegetation. Past grazing is probably a contributingfactor for the abundance of exotic grasses and thepaucity of Calamagrostis canadensis (bluejointreedgrass) in the Populus tremuloides / Poa pratensis(quaking aspen / Kentucky bluegrass) community.

RarityNo special status or tracked plant or animal species wereobserved. One G3 community, Salix bebbiana (Bebbwillow), was documented in excellent condition.

Other ValuesAn adult Sphyrapicus nuchalis (red-naped sapsucker)was observed feeding chicks in the Populus tremuloides/ Poa pratensis (quaking aspen / Kentucky bluegrass)community.

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Land UseThe state land section is grazed, but the oxbow area isfenced off and is not currently grazed. It is possible thattrespass cattle could access the site from the private landto the west.

ExoticsExotic species are mostly restricted to the Populustremuloides / Poa pratensis (quaking aspen / Kentuckybluegrass) community and to the portion of the Salixbebbiana (Bebb willow) community that occurs on themargin of the oxbow. These communities have highcover of Phleum pratense (common timothy) and Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass). Cynoglossum officinale(hound’s tongue), Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), andArctium sp. (burdock) are present at low cover. Poapalustris (fowl bluegrass) is present at low cover in theCarex utriculata (beaked sedge) community.

UplandsThe uplands appear to be used primarily for livestockgrazing. Subdivision is occurring throughout thebottomland along East Rosebud Creek, and there areresidences immediately adjacent to the site.

Information NeedsWhen was the fence around the oxbow installed? Whatwas the grazing history? Why is the Salix bebbiana(Bebb willow) community so free of exotic pasturegrasses?

Management NeedsThe noxious weeds are present at low cover and shouldbe eradicated. The western boundary of the State Landsection should be fenced.

Flathead Creek / Brackett Creek

DirectionsThis site is located on the east side of the BridgerMountains including the watershed from Flathead Passsouth to Ross Pass. From Bozeman take Highway 86approximately 187 miles northeast to Brackett Creek. Thesite can also be accessed by heading north 1.5 miles fromWilsall, then turning east on the county Road followingFlathead Creek towards Flathead Pass, approximately 13miles.

DescriptionThis site encompasses the upper tributaries of BrackettCreek and Flathead Creek which contain populations ofgenetically pure Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri(Yellowstone cutthroat trout). For the Brackett Creekdrainage, this includes tributaries upstream from HorseCreek (i.e., North, South and Middle Forks of BrackettCreek). Within the Flathead Creek drainage, the tributar-

ies upstream from Green Canyon Creek have beenincluded in this site, including: Cache Creek, Fairy Creek,Corral Creek, and the North, Middle, and South Forks ofFlathead Creek. Elevations at this site range from 5412 ft.(1650 m) to 9663 ft. (2946 m).

RarityUpper reaches and /or tributaries of Flathead andBrackett Creeks contain populations of genetically pureYellowstone cutthroat trout with moderate to substantialhabitat value (as rated by fisheries biologists).

ExoticsRainbow, brook and brown trout occur within theFlathead Creek and Brackett Creek watersheds. Theoccurrence and extent of exotic plant infestations isunknown.

Information NeedsInformation is needed on the presence and distributionof barriers to fish movement that would protect theintegrity of populations of pure Yellowstone cutthroattrout. Surveys for animals, plants and communities ofspecial concern are needed.

Gardiner

DirectionsThe Gardiner Site includes the Yellowstone RiverWatershed from the Lamar River watershed (inYellowstone National Park) downstream to the Mill Creekdrainage on the east and the Trail Creek Drainage on thewest. This site includes Mammoth, WY, and Gardiner,Chico, and Emigrant, MT. Follow Highway 89 south fromLivingston, MT approximately 18 miles to where thehighway intersects the northern boundary of themegasite (ca. 3.5 mi. south of the Loch Leven Camp-ground on the Yellowstone River).

DescriptionThe Gardiner Site includes the northern range ofYellowstone National Park (portions of the Gardner andLarmar River drainages) and numerous smaller drainagebasins from the Lamar River Valley to Mill Creek and TrailCreek (south of Livingston). It includes the entire MillCreek and Tom Miner / Rock Creek drainages. Primaryland ownership is by Yellowstone National Park, GallatinNational Forest, and private interests. Extensive winterrange and migration routes for Cervus elaphus (elk),Odocoileus hemionus (mule deer), Odocoileuvirginianus (white-tailed deer), Alces alces (moose), Oviscanadensis (bighorn sheep), Bos bison (bison) andAntilocapra americana (antelope) are present withinthis megasite. Ursus arctos horribilis (grizzly bear) andCanis lupus (grey wolf) recovery zones overlap with thismegasite. The headwaters of many of the tributaries to

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the Yellowstone River contain genetically pureOncorhynchus clarki bouvieri (Yellowstone cutthroattrout) populations, in the absence of contaminatingspecies (e.g., Mol Heron Creek, Tom Miner Creek, RockCreek, Fridley Creek, and Sixmile Creek). Three USDAForest Service Proposed Research Natural Areas (Sliding Mountain, Passage Creek and Eask Fork MillCreek Proposed RNAs) occur within this megasite aswell as a portion of the Beartooth-Absaroka Wildernessarea. The Mountains and foothills segments of this sitecontain expansive tracts of relatively undisturbedhabitat. Several geothermal springs and cave sites occurwithin this site. Winter range components of the UpperYellowstone megasite have been identified by membersof the Northern Range Working Group (scientists fromstate and federal agencies studying ungulate ecology inthe northern range). Yellowstone cutthroat trout habitat /population priorities are being incorporated into a multi-agency management (Bruce May, Gallatin NationalForest, Pers. Comm.). All drainages with pure strain oreven with less than 3% rainbow alleles should beconsidered a priority for conservation. Elevations rangefrom 4920 ft (1500 m) at the northern boundary along theYellowstone River valley to 11208 ft. ( 3417 m) at MountCowan, the tallest peak in the Absaroka Mountains.Several geothermally-influenced springs occur withinthis site.

Key Environmental FactorsThe lower elevation ungulate winter range on the northerrange (i.e., Lamar Valley to Yankee Jim Canyon along theYellowstone River) is primarily the result of rainshadoweffects. In addition, heavy snow accumulations in thehigher elevations (9,000 - 11,000+ ft.) are the recharge forthe Yellowstone River watershed. The timing andseverity of snow accumulation and cold temperatures areprimary determinants of the timing and extent of theungulate migrations. Fire is also a driving force in theregion, particularly for the Pinus contorta (lodgepolepine) communities, where stand-replacing fires areimportant. Fire also plays a critical role in maintainingsagebrush / grassland communities. Geothermal activityis important within this megasite. Climate conditions varywith elevation, slope and aspect. Precipitation rangesfrom 10 inches at Gardiner to more than 50 inches in thehigher elevations. Highest precipitation in Gardiner (ele.5286 ft.) occurs during April through July, while at CookeCity (ele. 8157 ft.) precipitation falls relatively consis-tently throughtout the year (ca. 2 inches / month).

RarityThe primary value of this site is the extensive ungulatewinter range. The “Northern Range” of YellowstoneNational Park provides habitat for more than 20,000 elk,which exhibit the largest ungulate migration in thecontiguous United States. This site also contains corehabitat for large wide-ranging carnivores (e.g., grizzly

bear, wolverine, and reintroduced wolf populations). Thecombined presence of the ungulate populations andlarge predators allows for the existance of major preda-tor-prey relationships, which are probably foundnowhere else in the lower 48.

ExoticsThere are numerous exotic species that are or potentiallycould be damaging to native species. The top fivenoxious plants are spotted knapweed, Russian knap-weed, leafy spurge, dalmation toadflax and sulfercinquefoil. Exotic trout species, primarily Oncocrhynchusmykiss (rainbow trout) pose a significant threat toYellowstone cutthroat trout. Domestic livestock competewith native ungulates for forage.

Information NeedsInformation on the status and extent of riparian commu-nities is needed as well as information on the fluvialgeomorphology of the Yellowstone River and itstributaries. Threats, particularly at the ecosystem level,are not fully identified or understood. Many areas areunsurveyed for species and communities of specialconcern. Potentially important sites that have either notbeen surveyed or were incompletely surveyed include:Mill Creek Crystal Cave, Montanaopolis Cave, TravertineCaves, Aldrich Pit, Bear Creek Thermal Spring, LaDukeHot Springs and Chico Hot Springs, and the wetlandcomplex in the Hellroaring Creek, Buffalo Creek, andSough Creek Drainages on the northern boundary ofYellowstone Naitonal Park.

Gardiner / Bear Creek

DirectionsThis site is located at the base of the Absaroka Moun-tains along the Yellowstone River valley, beginningapproximately 4 miles northwest of Gardiner, MT(northeast of Highway 89) and extending upstream alongthe Yellowstone River to include the Black Canyon of theYellowstone River, in Yellowstone National Park, WY.

DescriptionThe Gardiner / Bear Creek site is characterized bymountainous low elevation slopes, ridges and benches,including Deckard Flats and riverine habitats from theYellowstone River at Black Canyon to the Gardiner River.Elevations within this site range from 5248 ft. (1600 m) to7705 ft. (2349 m). The climate, topographic exposure, andvegetation provide for critical ungulate winter range,staging and migration. Bear Creek Springs consists of aseries of warm-water seeps (24 deg. C / 75.2 deg. F) atthe confluence of Bear Creek and the Yellowstone River.Numerous small caves and fissures are found with thetravertine deposits adjacent to Gardiner (north and east)and provide habitat for bats. Many of these small caves

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have been destroyed by quarrying. The travertinedeposits also provide substrate for rare and unusualplant and natural communities.

Key Environmental FactorsRain-shadow effects from the Gallatin and YellowstonePlateau are determinants of the winter range within thissite. Fire is an important process in maintaining sage-brush grassland / forest ecotone. Ungulate grazing is animportant factor in shaping vegetation communities, andthe extent of ungulate grazing is heavily dependent uponsnow depth, which varies annually.

RarityThis site is renowned as a critical winter range andmigrating route for Yellowstone ungulates. The DeckardFlat and flats south east of the north entrance toYellowstone National Park are major staging areas formigrating Cervus elaphus (elk) and provide importantwinter range for Ovis canadensis (bighorn sheep),Antilocapra americana (antelope), Odocoileushemionus (mule deer) and Bos bison (bison). Ungulatesprovide a prey base for Ursus arctos horribilis (grizzlybear) that utilize this area , and reintroduced Canis lupus(wolves) which may also occur in this site. The lowerportion of Bear Creek is an important tributary forspawning trout, both native and exotic. Haliaeetuslucocephalus (Bald eagle) and Pandion haliaetus(osprey) forage along the Yellowstone and GardnerRivers and Histrionicus histrionicus (harlequin duck) arefound on the Yellowstone River in Black Canyon. Twohistoric Falco peregrinus (peregrine falcon) eyries arelocated within this site. Calcareous soils near thetravertine deposits have a Artemisia nova /Pseudoroegneria spicata (blacksage / bluebunchwheatgrass) shrubland that is uncommon in Montana.Three rare plants are recorded from this site Erigeronlinearis (linear-leaf fleabane), Eleocharis rostellata(beaked spikerush) and a rare Castilleja exilis (Indianpaintbrush). An isolated population of sagebrush lizardsoccupies the Bear Creek Springs area.

ExoticsThe extent of exotic plant infestations is not known.Yellowstone National Park does map exotic plantpopulations. Dalmatian toadflax invasion is of primaryconcern. Exotic Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow trout)pose threats to the genetic integrity of Oncorhynchusclarki bouveri (Yellowstone cutthroat trout).

Information NeedsSurveys of the travertine deposits for rare plants and bathabitat are needed. The Bear Creek Springs area alsoneeds to be surveyed for rare plants and animals.Information on the extent and pattern of grizzly bear useof this area would be beneficial.

Government Island

DirectionsGovernment Island is located at the confluence of theBighorn River with the Yellowstone River, approximately3 miles east of Custer, MT.

DescriptionGovernment Island is a large island (ca. 0.66 mi. sq.) inthe Yellowstone River at the confluence with the BighornRiver. The island is covered with extensive Populusdeltoides (cottonwood) forests.

Key Environmental FactorsFluvial processes are necessary for the development ofgravel bars, as well as frequent spring floods, to providesuitable habitat for the establishment of cottonwood andwillow.

RarityGovernment Island was identified in the 1986 MontanaNatural Areas Proceedings as “an excellent example ofriparian plains cottonwood galley forest” and as astaging area for migrating Haliaeetus leucocephalus(bald eagle) during the spring. The value of this site isattributed to the occurence of a bald eagle nest and aArdea herodias (great blue heron) rookery on a smallerisland less that 0.25 mi. east of Government Island.Trionyx spiniferus (spiny softshell) is recorded from thissection of the river.

Information NeedsAn evaluation of the status and condition of the ripariancommunity is needed and the extent of exotic plantinfestations determined. Survey for plants and animalsof special concern are also needed.

Grove Creek Aspens

DirectionsNote: this site is on private land, and landownerpermission is needed to access this site. Grove CreekAspens is located west of the Clark’s Fork YellowstoneRiver in south central Montana. From Belfry, travelsouth 4.5 miles on State Route 72 to an intersection withan un-named road headed west. Travel west on the un-named road for 6 miles to Grove Creek Aspens.

DescriptionThis mosaic of aspen and alkaline meadow lies on agently sloping plain at the eastern base of the BeartoothMountains. Several creeks drain through the aspengroves and some spring/seeps that arise in the aspenstands are the primary water source for the site. Becausethis site occurs in the rain shadow of the Beartooth

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Range, the climate is very arid. This fact makes theaspen stands even more significant, as they are sur-rounded by Artemisia nova (black sagebrush)-domi-nated shrub herbaceous vegetation. The most strikingcommunity at this site is the aspen forest, which iscomposed of both Populus tremuloides / Cornus sericea(quaking aspen / red osier dogwood) and Populustremuloides / Prunus virginiana (quaking aspen /common chokecherry) stands. Both these communitiesare characterized by an aspen-dominated overstory and avery dense shrub layer, except for some spots on themargins of the stands that have been impacted by cattlegrazing. In one wetter area within the Populustremuloides / Prunus virginiana stand there is a Prunusvirginiana community that lacks an aspen overstory.Surrounding the aspen stands are alkaline wet meadowscomposed of a variety of communities. The mostcommon plant association is Pascopyrum smithii(western wheatgrass), which generally occurs on theeast side of the aspens. Although this community isdominated by Pascopyrum smithii, the canopy is notvery dense and much open ground is apparent. Otherassociated species are Spartina gracilis (alkalicordgrass), Muhlenbergia richardsonis (mat muhly), Irismissouriensis (western blue flag), and Antennaria sp.(pussytoes). Dominance shifts to a Spartina graciliscommunity in a few areas, which are otherwise similar incomposition to the former community. Salt efflorescenceis evident on the soil surface. Two exotic-dominatedcommunities, Agrostis stolonifera (redtop) and Elymusrepens (quackgrass), also occur in the wet meadow. Onthe west or uphill side of the aspen groves, Spartinapectinata (prairie cordgrass) and Glycyrrhiza lepidota(American licorice) communities dominate the alkalinemeadow community. Canopy coverage in these commu-nities is higher and less open ground is visible. Alongsome of the creek corridors there are narrow ripariancommunities dominated by Betula occidentalis (waterbirch). A Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) communityoccupies some of the lower gradient areas. In theecotone between the alkaline wet meadow and theupland there is an Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii(silver sage / western wheatgrass) community, which hasan overstory dominated by Artemisia cana with someChrysothamnus viscidiflorus (green rabbit brush) cover,and an undergrowth dominated by Pascopyrum smithii.

Key Environmental FactorsIn this very arid valley in the rainshadow of theBeartooth Range, the presence of perennial seepage andsprings is the prime driver of plant community develop-ment.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. Four G3 orrarer plant associations in good to excellent conditionwere surveyed. These are Populus tremuloides / Prunus

virginiana (quaking aspen / chokecherry), Betulaoccidentalis (river birch), Spartina pectinata (prairiecordgrass), and Spartina gracilis (alkali cordgrass).

Other ValuesThe following animal species were observed in thecourse of inventory: Centrocercus urophasianus (sagegrouse), Circus cyaneus (northern harrier), Crotalusviridis (western rattlesnake), and Odocoileus hemionus(whitetail deer).

Land UseCattle grazing is occurring with the accompanying trailsand minor introduction of exotics. At the time of the sitevisit, utilization of graminoids was quite low. A reservoirjust east of the wetlands could concentrate cattle in thevicinity.

ExoticsExotic pasture grasses, such as Bromus inermis (smoothbrome), Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass), andPhleum pratense (common timothy), and noxious weeds,including Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), Cirsiumvulgare (bull thistle), and Cynoglossum officinale(hound’s tongue) have increased as result of grazing.

UplandsOn the surrounding private and public lands, intensivegrazing is the primary use.

Information NeedsThis site should be visited in spring/early summer for acomplete description of community composition and athorough rare plant survey should also be conducted.

Management NeedsThe aspen component should be examined to seewhether the age/size class structure and disease condi-tions could be improved by conducting a prescribedburn. Livestock numbers on the wet meadow portionshould be carefully monitored and livestock should bekept off for a longer period in the spring to avoidhummocking. A noxious weed management plan isneeded to prevent new introductions and pursueeradication/reduction of the existing populations.

Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge

DirectionsHailstone National Wildlife Refuge is located in the LakeBasin in south central Montana. From Rapelje, 24 milesnorth of Columbus on State Route 306 proceed east onthe Rapelje-Molt Road for 4 miles to the Hailstone road.Travel 1 mile north on the Hailstone road to the entranceto Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge.

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DescriptionThis is a large, shallow brackish lake in the Lake Basinarea of central Montana. Several intermittently flowingcreeks drain into the lake, and one intermittent creekdrains out of the lake. The north shore of Hailstone Lakehas a very low gradient. During wet climatic periods(e.g., several years with ample precipitation), HailstoneLake fills with water and expands to the north. Duringdrier periods, the lake shrinks and leaves expansiveunvegetated alkaline mud flats around a small body ofwater. The upland is a combination of native anddisturbed grassland, and the exotic grass Poa pratensis(Kentucky bluegrass) is a common species. Wetlandcommunities tolerant of moderately to highly salineconditions occur as a narrow fringe around the edge ofHailstone Lake and along the outlet creek. Immediatelyadjacent to the mud flats are narrow patches ofPuccinellia nuttalliana (Nuttall’s alkaligrass) andDistichlis spicata (saltgrass) communities. Slightlyhigher on the topographic gradient and somewhat drieris an exotic-dominated disturbance community. A varietyof mustard and Chenopodium spp. (goosefoot) speciesdominate this community. Along the outlet creek thereare Schoenoplectus maritimus (saltmarsh clubrush) andSchoenoplectus pungens (threesquare) communities inthe wetter areas. Distichlis spicata and Triglochinconcinnum (graceful arrowgrass) form small patches andnarrow fringe communities at just a slightly higher pointon the moisture gradient. Aquatic vegetation grows inthe standing water, but the mud was too deep for thiscommunity to be sampled.

Key Environmental FactorsThis site is a closed basin with no surface outlet, and thesoils in this vicinity are derived from clay substrates,which means they swell on wetting and are consequentlypoorly drained. The restricted drainage results in thebasin accumulating water in pluvial times and theformation of wetland communities.

RarityTwo species of special concern were observed:Himantopus mexicanus (black-necked stilt) andCyonomys ludovicianus (black-tailed prairie dog). Noinformation was collected on the extent of the prairie dogcolony.

Other ValuesRecurvirostra americana (American avocet), Limosafedoa (marbled godwit), Numenius americanus (long-billed curlew), Dolichonyx oryzivorus (boblink), and aspecies of dung beetle were all observed within thewetland site.

Land UseAn impoundment at the outflow on Hailstone Lake raisesthe lake level several feet. In the past, most of the

uplands were farmed down to and through the low prairiezone. This has resulted in the development of thedisturbance communities that now dominate most of thewetland edge.

ExoticsAn extensive disturbance community, dominated by Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Sonchus spp.(mostly Sonchus uliginosus [marsh sow-thistle]), nowdominates the low prairie and wet meadow zone.

UplandsThe uplands within the National Wildlife Refuge are notgrazed or farmed. A road traverses the eastern edge ofthe lake about 50 feet from the edge of the currentmudflat. Outside the Refuge, strip-cropped wheat isgrown and these lands drain into the Refuge and lake.

Information NeedsWhat effects might the farmland drainage water have onthe composition of the wetlands, particularly themicrofauna and food chain in general?

Management NeedsA management plan for the exotic species in “low prairie”needs to be developed. Strip-cropped wheat farms haveled to a hyper salinity problem in Hailstone Lake, whichwill be placed on 303(d) list in the year 2000 as a water-quality limited water body (R. Apfelbeck, pers. comm.).

Halfbreed National Wildlife Refuge

DirectionsNote: a portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is required to access this area.Halfbreed National Wildlife Refuge is north of theYellowstone River in south central Montana. FromRapelje, 24 miles north of Columbus on State Route 306,travel about 7.25 miles east of Rapelje on the Rapelje-Molt Road to an un-named road to the south. Proceedapproximately 0.5 mile due south to Halfbreed NationalWildlife Refuge.

DescriptionThis site is located in the Lake Basin area of centralMontana. It is a closed basin comprising four large,interconnected, shallow brackish lakes as well asnumerous small alkaline potholes. During wet climaticperiods (e.g., several years with above average precipita-tion), the lakes fill with water. However, in dry years andover the course of most growing seasons, the lakesdecline and leave expansive unvegetated alkaline mudflats around a shrunken body of water. Several intermit-tently flowing creeks drain into Halfbreed Lake (one ofwhich is from Hailstone Lake). When Halfbreed Lake isfull, it drains into Goose Lake, which is also fed by the

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intermittent Cedar Creek. When full, Goose Lake drainsinto Grass Lake, which in turn drains into Big Lake.

Stuckenia pectinata (sago pondweed) is the dominantspecies at Halfbreed and Grass Lakes across the dried-out lakebeds, and appears to be a major component ofsubmergent vegetation throughout the series of lakes.Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail) and Eleocharis sp.(spikerush) occupy drier habitats. The Typha latifoliacommunity occurs along the channel of the outflowcreek from Halfbreed Lake (which was dry during the sitevisit), and the spikerush community occurs in a drypothole. There are also some patches of apparently deadSchoenoplectus acutus (hardstem bulrush) andSchoenoplectus pungens (threesquare) in HalfbreedLake. The low-lying flats surrounding these lakessupport patches of Hordeum jubatum (foxtail barley) andPascopyrum smithii (western wheatgrass) but are mostlydominated by a Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrumsmithii (black greasewood / western wheatgrass)community. It is expansive, and there are small inclu-sions with very high coverage of exotic species, such asAgropyron cristatum (crested wheatgrass), Lepidiumperfoliatum (clasping pepperweed), and Bromuscommutatus (meadow brome). However, coverage ofexotics is generally low, and the community is in goodcondition, especially in relation to other examples of thiscommunity in the basin. Only one aquatic communitywas sampled during this site visit. The water at this siteis quite saline (conductivity = 17,500 µS/cm).

One-time visits have limited use for evaluating succes-sion, but it appeared that permanent emergent vegetationat the shoreline, including Hordeum jubatum (foxtailbarley) and Puccinellia nuttalliana (Nuttall’salkaligrass), was being replaced by annual species ofalkali flats, such as Chenopodium rubrum (red goose-foot), Chenopodium glaucum (oakleaf goosefoot), andKochia scoparia (summer cypress). These changes areconsistent with a natural drawdown trend in a droughtcycle.

Key Environmental FactorsThe closed basin (a relatively uncommon geomorpho-logical feature), coupled with soils weathered from asubstrate high in clays and of low permeability, hascreated a condition promoting intermittent flooding, saltaccumulation, and ponding of water. This floodedcondition in turn structures the plant communities. Theerosion and vegetation at the perimeter of HalfbreedLake indicates that the lake levels are or were artificiallyelevated.

RarityThree species of special concern were observed: Athenecunicularia (burrowing owl), Himantopus mexicanus

(black-necked stilt), and Cynomys ludovicianus (black-tailed prairie dog).

Other ValuesA one-time observation showed the following to bepresent (in addition to the species of concern):Recurvirostra americana (American avocet), Limosafedoa (marbled godwit), Ardea herodias (great blueheron, 20+ observed), Olor columbianus (tundra swan),numerous duck species, Thamnophis sirtalis (commongarter snake), and Antilocapra americana (pronghornantelope).

The large complex of wetlands and their abundance ofsago pondweed are significant for spring waterfowlmigration. The decline of emergent cover in the currentdrought cycle temporarily reduces waterfowl breedinghabitat value.

Land UseNeither grazing nor hunting is currently permitted.Banding of waterfowl takes place on an annual basis.

ExoticsNumerous exotics/increaser species occur in a 20-30 footband on the lake margin mud flat. These includeLepidium perfoliatum (clasping pepperweed), Chenopo-dium album (lambsquarters), Chenopodium rubrum (redgoosefoot), Tragopogon dubius (goat’s beard), Ivaaxillaris (poverty-weed), Rumex spp. (dock or sorrel),and Kochia scoparia (summer cypress). These speciesare typically found on alkali flats and appear to bereplacing patches of dead emergent vegetation includingSchoenoplectus americanus (American bulrush) andSchoenoplectus acutus (hardstem bulrush) along partsof the lakeshore. Patches of Bromus commutatus(meadow brome), Lepidium perfoliatum, and Agropyroncristatum (crested wheatgrass) are found within theSarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii (blackgreasewood / western wheatgrass) plant association.

UplandsMost of the surrounding uplands are either strip-cropped wheatlands or heavily grazed rangelands.Greasewood flats extend onto private property in areas.A prairie dog town occurs on both sides of the northernrefuge border and extends into the Sarcobatusvermiculatus (black greasewood) habitat.

Management NeedsThe Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii(black greasewood / western wheatgrass) habitat thatprevails around the lakes is in good to excellent condi-tion, but it has unusual levels of vegetation litteraccumulation. This situation warrants further manage-ment consideration. Ironically, it is possible that in the

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absence of occasional grazing, the idle condition mayshift the composition in favor of ruderal species.

Hell’s Canyon

DirectionsHell’s Canyon is in the Absaroka Range in south centralMontana. Hell’s Canyon is adjacent to Hells CanyonCampground 24 miles south of McLeod on State Route298.

DescriptionThis wetland is a series of marshes and wet meadowsformed by beaver dams and connected by a small creek.This drainageway, alluvial in origin, flows into theBoulder River. Old beaver dams helped form thiswetland, and the uppermost marsh still ponds water year-round. Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) andCalamagrostis inexpansa (narrow-spiked reedgrass)fringe the pond and an Alnus incana (mountain alder)community dominates the creek bottom down to the nextmarsh. A Carex utriculata community that is beinginvaded by Calamagrostis inexpansa and the exotic Poapalustris (fowl bluegrass) dominates this next marsh,which appears to be drying out. The part of this marshjust above the beaver dam is very wet and still domi-nated by Carex utriculata. The lowest marsh hasanother Carex utriculata community that also appearsto be drying out; Poa palustris and Calamagrostisinexpansa are also increasing in cover in this marsh.Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine) and Pseudotsugamenziesii (Douglas-fir) forest dominate the uplands.

Key Environmental FactorsCastor canadensis (beaver) activity and seasonal highwater cause flooding that in turn structures the commu-nities present.

RarityAn uncommon G3 community, Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis (mountain alder / bluejointreedgrass), occupies a minor portion of the wetland.

Other ValuesAlces alces (moose) have heavily browsed the willowcomponent. Ondatra zibethica (muskrats) were noted inthe open water. Rana pretiosa (spotted frogs) wereflushed in a number of plant communities.

Land UseThe only impacts to the site, and these are hypothesized,are trampling from fishermen and past grazing, whichwould account for the populations of exotic species.

ExoticsWithin the Alnus incana (mountain alder)-dominatedcommunity are inexplicably dense patches of Cirsiumarvense (Canada thistle). In the wet meadow portion ofthe site are numerous pasture grasses, including Poapalustris (fowl bluegrass), Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), Phleum pratense (common timothy), andAgrostis stolonifera (redtop), any of which can competefor dominance with the native dominants, primarilyCalamagrostis stricta (narrow-spike reedgrass).Phalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) constitutes athreat in the meadow below the pond.

UplandsA road runs parallel to the west edge of the site at the toeof the slope and crosses the inlet creek as well. Severaldispersed campsites were found next to the pond.

Information NeedsWhat factors account for the high cover of Cirsiumarvense (Canada thistle) in parts of the site? Could it bethat the site is alluvial in nature and the seeds of weedyspecies are simply washed-in?

Management NeedsMake certain that beaver have access to the area so theyin turn can maintain natural processes that result in thewetland’s health and extent.

Horsethief Station

DirectionsHorsethief Station is located in the foothills and highplains of south central Montana. From Red Lodge, travelnorth on U.S. Highway 212 for a little over 1 mile. Turneast on a dirt road signed for Rock Creek fishing access.Follow this road for a little less than 2 miles. The accessis signed.

DescriptionHorsethief Station is located in the floodplain of RockCreek. In this reach, Rock Creek is braided with two orthree primary channels and many dry (at time of survey)gravel-cobble bed overflow channels. Channel banks areeroded and the system appears to be downcutting. Themicrotopography of the floodplain is complex with manyswales and old channels. Much of the floodplainappears to be above the flood prone zone (twice thestage height at bankfull).

Most of the site is occupied by mature cottonwoodgallery forest. Two communities comprise these forests:Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea(black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) and Populus

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balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Symphoricarposoccidentalis (black cottonwood / western snowberry).The Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornussericea association occurs on mid-channel bars andmore mesic portions of the floodplain, while the Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Symphoricarposoccidentalis community occurs on higher floodplaindeposits above the flood prone zone. Mesic swales thatintercept groundwater are interspersed throughout thesecommunities and support an Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis (mountain alder / bluejointreedgrass) community.

Old beaver activity has created ponded areas that havesilted up and now support small Carex utriculata(beaked sedge) and Carex pellita (woolly sedge)communities and larger Salix boothii / Carex utriculata(Booth’s willow / beaked sedge) and Salix boothii /Calamagrostis canadensis communities. There is also asmall patch of Populus tremuloides / Prunus virginiana(quaking aspen / chokecherry).

Key Environmental FactorsFluvial processes, such as seasonal flooding and highgroundwater, and the associated channel migration andmicrotopography are the primary influences on vegeta-tion structure and composition at this site. Past beaveractivity is also very important and has created pondedareas that support mesic sedge and willow communities.Finally browsing by wild ungulates (perhaps elk andmoose) has altered the structure of the shrub layer insome cottonwood stands by suppressing and reducingthe cover of palatable species, such as Cornus sericea(red-osier dogwood).

RarityNo special status species were observed. Four G3Q orG3? communities were documented: Populustremuloides / Prunus virginiana (quaking aspen /chokecherry), Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa /Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood),Alnus incana / Calamagrostis canadensis (mountainalder, bluejoint reedgrass), and Carex pellita (woollysedge). These occurrences range from small (Carexpellita) to moderately sized (Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea) and are in fair to goodcondition. Generally, more mesic sites are in bettercondition and less affected by exotic species.

Other ValuesAlthough there are several diversion ditches upstream ofand within this reach, this section of Rock Creek appearsto support important hydrologic functions, such asdynamic water storage and surface water - groundwaterinteractions. The floodplain is still accessed by surfaceand subsurface flooding regimes, and native vegetation

appears to be highly connected and to occupy much ofthe floodplain.

Land UseThis site is a dedicated recreation site, and there aremany informal trail throughout. The site is well browsed,but not apparently by livestock. One low-flow sidechannel is blocked by a cobble and plastic-lined dam andis diverted into a small ditch, probably for irrigation use.

ExoticsExotic species are well established in portions of thissite. Pasture grasses, such as Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), Phleum pratense (common timothy), andDactylis glomerata (orchard grass), are abundant in drierportions of the site. Some cottonwood stands haveherbaceous openings with well-established patches ofnoxious weeds, including Centaurea maculosa (spottedknapweed), Leucanthemum vulgare (ox-eye daisy),Cynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue), and Cirsiumarvense (Canada thistle).

UplandsNative vegetation occupies the floodplain of Rock Creekalong the active channels immediately up and down-stream of the site. Adjacent land uses are pasture andhousing/ranchettes.

Information NeedsHow do irrigation diversions affect the functionality ofthe site?

Management NeedsAlthough pasture grasses are very well established atthe site, noxious weeds, such as Centaurea maculosa(spotted knapweed), Cynoglossum officinale (hound’stongue), and Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge), arecurrently present at low cover and could be eradicated orcontrolled with a weed management plan.

Lamar River

DirectionsAbsaroka Range, Lamar River drainage, ranging fromTower Junction 30 air miles east to Hoodoo Basin andfrom Slough Creek about 23 air miles south to PyramidPeak.

DescriptionSite is focussed on the Lamar River drainage andsurrounding watersheds. The site encompasses LittleBuffalo, Slough, Rose, Soda Butte, Cache, Calfee, andMiller Creeks on the north side of the drainage, and Mist,Cold, Willow, Buffalo, Timothy, Flint, Opal, Unnamed,Chalcedony, Amethyst, Jasper, and Crystal Creeks on thesouth.

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RarityThe Lamar River site was designed for wide-rangingcarnivore species that occur in the area. The ranges forgrizzlies, lynx, wolverine, wolf, and bison overlap here, sothis area provides habitat for a variety species thatrequire large ranges.

Line Creek Plateau To Pryor Mountains

DirectionsThe site extends from the east side of the BeartoothMountains eastward to the Pryor Mountains. The westend is located 5 miles south of Red Lodge, MT and isaccessed from Highway 212. The site can also beaccessed from Billings by taking Interstate 90 to theLaurel, and south on Highway 310 approximately 33 miles(about. 2 mi. south of Bridger, MT).

DescriptionThis regional site is a premier alpine and desert regionthat contains an exceptional array of physiographic,climatic and geologic conditions that results in anextremely diverse flora and fauna. The site includes anextensive alpine area on Line Creek Plateau in theBeartooth Range, the dome shaped Pryor Mountains tothe south, and the desert region between. Elevationsrange from 3739 ft (1140 m) to 10112 ft (3083 m). Theabrupt elevational change along the east flank of theBeartooth Mountains near Meeteesee Spires is is one ofthe most severe in Montana.

Alpine communities occur above 9,500 ft and aredominated by low shrubs and herbaceous vegetation.Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir) and limber pinedominate montane forests; subalpine forest have Abieslasiocarpa (subalpine fir), Picea engelmanii (Engelmannspruce) and Pinus albicaulis (white bark pine). Utahjuniper and pine woodlands grow in the foothills androck-crops in the center of the basin. Bunchgrasses andxerophytic shrubs dominate low elevation arid portionsof the bighorn basin. Wetlands are rare in the limestoneand desert environment; wet meadows and aspen grovesoccur sporadically on the alluvial fans just east of theBeartooth front. Saline marshes are found along SageCreek.

Key Environmental FactorsPrimary factors influencing the flora and fauna of thisregion are the diverse environmental gradients. Extremesin elevation and precipitation (rain-shadow effects) arecritical factors. The Line Creek Plateau (ele. 10,000 ft)may receive in excess of 40 inches of annual precipita-tion, the eastern foothills, alluvial fans and northernBighorn Basin are in the rainshadow of the BeartoothMountains and may receive less than 6 inches of annualprecipitation. Biogeographic factors, such as the Great

Basin influence and geographic isolation, are alsoimportant. Numerous species with Great Basin affinitiesare at the northern extent of their range in this site.

Fire was probably infrequent in the desert and woodlandregions due to paucity of fuels. Coniferous forests weremaintained as a mosaic of different age classes byground and stand-replacing fires.

RarityThis site has very rich biological diversity values due tothe environmental gradient, geogrpahic location andplant endemism. The bighorn desert region containsmany endemic and peripherally rare plant and animalspecies. Desert grasslands, shrubland and woodlandcommunities are more typical of the Great Basin andColorado Plateau. Juniperus osteosperma (Utah juniper)and Cercocarpus ledifolius (mountain mahogany) arevery unusual and considered rare communities inMontana. Both white tailed and black tailed prairie dogsare found in this site. Mountainous regions have anumber of arctic-alpine plant species that are disjunct orat the southern edge of their range. This region mayhave the highest plant endemism in Montana (eight plantspecies). In all, there are dozens of plants and animals ofconcern in this site.

Other ValuesThe desert region site is potentially a corridor betweenthe Bighorn Mountais and the Greater YellowstoneEcosystem (Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area) andcould serve as a linkage area for migratory ungulates andwide-ranging carnivores.

Land UseIn the lower elevation, agriculture is the primary land useproducing alfalfa, sugar beets, corn and cattle. Cattlegraze low elevation grassland and shrublands andparticularly riparian environments. The region has yearround recreational activity. The open vegetation of thedesert region is attractive to off road vehicle use; thealpine areas receive visitors via mountain bikes in thesummer and snowmobile in the winter. Salvage harvestof windthrow has occurred in the Pryor Mountains andaspen groves have been harvested in the past.

ExoticsCentaurea maculosa (Spotted knapweed) and Euphor-bia esula (leafy spruge) are locally common on thealluvial fans east of the Beartooth Front. Cirsium arvest(Canada thistle) and Sonchus spp. (sow thistle) arepresent in wetlands. Some wet meadows in the grovecreek area have been planted to Eurasian meadowgrasses and used for hay. Elaeagnus angustifolia(Russian olive) and Tamarix ramosissima (salt cedar) arefound along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River.

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Information NeedsAbsence of beaver in the Sage Creek and Crooked Creekshould be investigated. Inventory for the occurrenceand distribution of exotic plant infestations shouldcontinue. Additional surveys for animals of specialconcern are needed. New surveys for terrestrial mollusksshould be done in the aspen stands .

Management NeedsNatural fluvial processes are essential to maintaincottonwood forests along the Clark’s Fork of theYellowstone River. Livestock grazing can be a compat-ible rangeland use, however efforts to continue tocontrol excess use in riparian area in order to maintainwillow communities and normal stream geomorphologyare needed. Noxious weeds should be controlled.Control of off-road vehicle activity should be consid-ered, especially when damage to rare plants or wildlife isdetected

Little Moose Lake

DirectionsBeartooth Plateau, complex of lakes, streams, andwetlands between Clay Butte on the east and the Clark’sFork of the Yellowstone River to the west. A pack trailfrom US Highway 212 leads north through the site,passing through Little Moose Lake.

DescriptionThe boundaries were drawn to include the wetlands thatsupport populations of ten boreal disjunct species andto provide additional habitat for them. This complex ofsubalpine bogs, lakes, and streams ranges from BugleLake on the west to Muddy Creek on the east. The sitehas subalpine communities of Pinus contorta /Vaccinium scoparium, Abies lasiocarpa / Vacciniumscoparium, and Picea engelmannii / Linnaea borealison rolling glaciated granitic bedrock. Fens, willow carrs,and hummocks are found around ponds and alongstreams, and there is an unusual occurrence of floatingSphagnum mats along Little Moose Lake. Riparian areasare characterized by a diveristy of vegetation communi-ties including Betula stands, Carex rostrata Herbaceousvegetation, Salix wolfii / Carex aquatilis,Calamagrostis canadensis herbaceous vegetation, andSalix planifolia / Carex aquatilis (Jones and Fertig1999b).

Key Environmental FactorsFloating bogs.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith high snowfall and warm summers with afternoonrainfall.

RarityThe site contains ten rare plant species, one of which ison the US Forest Service Region 2 Sensitive Species listAgoseris lackschewitzii (pink agoseris). Seven of thesespecies are peripherals that are on the edge of their rangein Wyoming, although they are common elsewhere.There are also two species that are sparsely distributedthroughout their range. Three US Forest Service Sensi-tive animals have also been recorded in the area (Lynxcanadensis, Gulo gulo luscus, and Accipiter gentilis).

Other ValuesWildlife and recreation.

ExoticsSmall amounts of Poa pratensis and Taraxacumofficinale have been observed (Jones and Fertig, 1999).

Information NeedsRevisit the rare plant populations for better populationestimates.

Lost Lakes

DirectionsLost Lakes are located in the Absaroka Range in southcentral Montana. From McLeod, travel south on StateRoute 298 for 0.5 mile. Turn onto the West Boulder Roadand travel west-southwest for approximately 12 miles tothe West Boulder trailhead. Travel south on Forest Trail41 for approximately 1 mile. Follow an informal trail upthe eastern slope of the valley for a little over 1 mile toLost Lakes.

DescriptionThis site consists of two lakes located on a small benchon the lower slope above the West Boulder River. Thelakes have formed in shallow, glacial depressions, andreceive both surface and groundwater inflows. A smallcreek drains the lower lake. Wetland communities fringeboth lakes. Schoenoplectus acutus (hardstem bulrush)and Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail) dominate thewettest communities. These communities aresemipermanently flooded, and while Schoenoplectusacutus fringes both lakes, Typha latifolia is confined tosmall patches. A Carex utriculata (beaked sedge)community dominates drier, seasonally flooded sites.The upper edge of this community has a few individualAlnus incana (mountain alder) shrubs and sapling-sizedPicea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce). Pasturegrasses, mostly Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) andPhleum pratense (common timothy) dominate theimmediate uplands, and Poa pratensis is well establishedin the Carex utriculata community. There is also a verysmall Carex nebrascensis (Nebraska sedge) communityalong the lower lake.

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Key Environmental FactorsGround and surface water inflows and water levelfluctuations are important influences on plant communitystructure.

RarityNo rare plants, animals, or communities were observed atthis site.

Other ValuesRana pretiosa (spotted frogs) were observed in the lake.

Land UseThis site receives some recreational use, and there issome pugging in the Carex utriculata (beaked sedge)community, possibly from horse use. The presence ofpasture grasses implies that the site may have beengrazed in the past.

ExoticsPoa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Phleumpratense (common timothy) are present in the uplands.Poa pratensis is well established in the drier margins ofthe wetland.

UplandsThe site is located in the Absaroka-Beartooth WildernessArea. The lake basin does not appear to receive heavyrecreational use.

Information NeedsWhat is the grazing history of the site? Is presence ofpasture grasses a product of recreational stock use?

Mary Bay / Yellowstone

DirectionsNorth shore of Yellowstone Lake starting at theconfluence of Pelican Creek, about 1 mile east of FishingBridge Campground and about 2 miles east of LakeJunction on East Entrance Road. Site continues eastalong the shore of Yellowstone Lake and inland about 1mile from the lakeshore to Steamboat Point. The siteincludes Mary Bay, Storm Point, Beach Springs, IndianPond, and Steamboat Springs.

DescriptionThis site contains a thin strand of sandy beaches on thenorthern shore of Yellowstone Lake. Several thermalfeatures are included along the lakeshore. Surroundingforested areas provide a buffer around the lakeshore.The East Entrance Road bisects the site. Several largeponds are also contained.

Key Environmental FactorsSubstrate, wind erosion.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith a goodly amount of snow, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.RarityThe site contains the only confirmed occurrence of a G1ranked element (Abronia ammophila), even though thisoccurrence is ranked B? It also contains a high rankingoccurrence of Haplopappus macronema var. linearis(T2) and a cluster of S1 state rare plant and animalspecies. The site also includes habitat for grizzly bears.

Other ValuesHabitat for bison, moose, and other large game animals.A suite of rare animals is known from other lakeshorelocations and could also occur here (including borealtoad, common loon, American white pelican, trumpeterswan, bald eagle, and Franklin’s gull). Area is of highvalue for scenic qualities and recreation.

Information NeedsBetter information is needed on the locations of elementswithin the site. Several additional rare animals may occurhere, but confirmation is needed. Management needs ofAbronia ammophila need to be determined.

Main Boulder

DirectionsNote: This site is located on private land, and landownerpermission is needed to access this site. The MainBoulder site is located in the foothills of the BeartoothMountains in south central Montana. From McLeod,travel south on State Route 298 for approximately 10miles. The site is located approximately 0.5 mile past theNatural Bridge trailhead.

DescriptionThis site occurs on the floodplain of the Main BoulderRiver along the active channel and associated oxbows.Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa (black cotton-wood) and Populus tremuloides (quaking aspen) forestoccupies the majority of the floodplain. Most of thesestands are affected by historic grazing. They have aminimal shrub component and an herbaceous layerdominated by exotic grasses such as Agrostisstolonifera (redtop), Bromus inermis (smooth brome),and Phleum pratense (common timothy). Cottonwoodand aspen cover is primarily from mature trees. Incontrast to the above-described stands, this site alsosupports an outstanding example of a Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (blackcottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community. Occurringon the inside of a meander bend, this community has anoverstory dominated by mature (24-inch diameter-at-breast-height and larger) Populus balsamifera sap.

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trichocarpa and a well established mid-canopy ofPopulus tremuloides. The shrub layer is diverse withgood Cornus sericea, Symphoricarpos occidentalis(western snowberry), and Prunus virginiana(chokecherry) cover, and the presence of exotic speciesis minimal.

Wetter areas on the site, such as floodplain swales andold oxbows, support well-developed sedge and aquaticcommunities. A Carex utriculata (beaked sedge)community with abundant Carex vesicaria (inflatedsedge) cover occupies the silted in portions of oldoxbows. A small depressional wetland has an open watercomponent that supports a Potamogeton richardsonii -Myriophyllum spicatum (red-head pondweed - watermilfoil) aquatic community. A Salix exigua (sandbarwillow) community fringes many of these low areas.Willow communities also occur on lower portions of thefloodplain such as aggrading point bars. These commu-nities, including Salix exigua and small stands of Salixlucida sap. caudata (shining willow) and Salix lutea /Calamagrostis canadensis (yellow willow / bluejointreedgrass), have high cover of exotic herbaceousspecies.

Key Environmental FactorsThe primary factors influencing vegetation at this site arefluvial dynamics, including flooding, erosion anddeposition, and channel migration. Historic grazing isprobably an important influence in reducing or eliminat-ing the floodplain forest’s shrub component andincreasing the abundance of exotic species.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.One G2 community, Potamogeton richardsonii -Myriophyllum spicatum (red-head pondweed - watermilfoil), was documented in very good condition. ThreeG3 communities were documented: Salix lucida sap.caudata (shining willow) and Salix lutea /Calamagrostis canadensis (yellow willow / bluejointreedgrass) in fair to poor condition and Populusbalsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (blackcottonwood / red-osier dogwood) in excellent condition.

Other ValuesFluvial processes, such as flooding and associatedsediment erosion and deposition, are still largely intact.This provides opportunity for cottonwood regenerationat the site.

Land UseThe effects of historic grazing have altered the structureand composition of cottonwood and aspen stands.Current browsing by wild ungulates, such as Alces alces(moose), may be contributing to the suppression ofpalatable native shrubs like Cornus sericea (red-osier

dogwood). Horses lightly browse portions of the site.This has created some pugging in oxbow wet sedgecommunities. Signs of trespass cattle were observed inthe riparian area east of the active channel. The site alsoreceives angling use from the adjacent property.

ExoticsHerbaceous exotic species are well established at thesite. The exotic grasses Bromus inermis (smooth brome)and Agrostis stolonifera (redtop) dominate the under-story of many of the cottonwood and aspen stands. Thenoxious weeds Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle) andTanacetum vulgare (common tansy) and the highlyinvasive Phalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) arelocally abundant.

UplandsThe surrounding uplands are largely intact. Livestockgrazing is widespread in the bottomland along the rivercorridor, and some riparian forest has been converted tohay pasture.

Information NeedsWhat is the site’s grazing history? Is the abundance ofBromus inermis (smooth brome) and Agrostis stolonifera(redtop) affecting the recovery of native shrub species?What is the stability of the active channel?

Management NeedsControlling exotic pasture grasses is probably notfeasible; however, the smaller populations of Cirsiumarvense (Canada thistle) and Tanacetum vulgare(common tansy) might be manageable.

Main Boulder River

DirectionsThe Main Boulder River Site is located on the north faceof the Absaroka-Beartooth complex, north of theBeartooth Plateau. The site is located approximately 24miles southwest of Big Timber, MT and 18 miles south-west of McLeod, MT, and accessed via Highway 298 andForest Service Road 6639.

DescriptionThis site includes the main stem of the Boulder Rivercorridor, expanded at the upper (south) end of thedrainage to encompass the extreme headwaters (SouthFork of the Boulder, Sheep Creek, Basin Creek) of themain Boulder River. Besides these major river tributaries,three naturally occurring caves are within the site,Boulder River Cave, Boulder River Indian Cave, andWest Boulder Cave. Natural Bridge State Monument iswithin this site. Limestone outcrops, steep cliffs andriparian environment enrich the biodiversity at this site.Elevations for this site range from 5500 ft (1676 m) at the

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north to 10662 ft (3240 m) at the south end (headwaters)of the drainage.

Key Environmental FactorsThe hydrology, limestone geology and topography areimportant environmental factors.

RarityThe primary biodiversity features are aquatic, riverine /wetland communities, forest carnivores and ungulatewinter range. There are populations of genetically pureOncorhynchus clarki bouvieri (Yellowstone cutthroattrout) in the Hawley Creek and the headwaters of SouthFork Boulder Creek. The main Boulder River, near BoxCanyon has pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout, but withcontaminating species (i.e., rainbow trout). Grizzly bearsare likely to occur through the entire site, although therecovery zone is only in the upper portions of this site.Other carnivores that could occur in this site includeCanis lupus (gray wolf) and Lynx canadensis (Canadalynx). The main Boulder River and East Fork of theBoulder provide habitat for Histrionicus histrionicus(harlequin duck). The river bottom and lower slopesprovide winter range for Alces alces (moose), while thewest-facing slopes of the drainage are winter range forCervus elaphus (elk) and Odocoileus hemionus (muledeer). Winter range for Ovis canadensis (bighorn sheep)is found at the very head of the Boulder River. Twohistoric Falco peregrinus (peregrine falcon) eyries arepresent at this site. A rare Discus shimeki (land snail) ispresent at the Natural Bridge State Monument. Rareplants include Erigeron eatonii spp. eatonii (Eaton’sdaisy), Salix wolfii var. wolfii (wolf’s willow) andAquilegia brevistyla (short-styled columbine).

ExoticsOncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow), Salmo trutta (brown)and Salvelinus fontinalis (brook) trout occur in theBoulder River drainage and can potentially compete orhybridize with Yellowstone cutthroat trout. The occur-rence and extent of exotic plant infestations is unknown.

Information NeedsSurveys of three cave sites (Boulder River Cave, BoulderRiver Indian Cave, and West Boulder Cave) shouldcontinue for bats. Anderson’s Spring should be sur-veyed for endemic insect species. Additional surveys forplants, animals, and communities of special concern areneeded in this area.

Mammoth

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau - the site lies to the south and eastof Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Parkon the Loop Road. Mammoth includes the Park Head-

quarters and can be reached from any Park road in thesummer; in the winter, the road is open to the north, andone can drive in from Gardiner, MT, about 5 miles north.The site lies just south of the inhabited area and includessome wooded, but mostly open slopes of Mt. Bunsenthat undulate down the Gardner River Valley to the riverbottom, then east to Lava Creek, and up the other side ofthe valley. The Hot Springs are included as well, whichallows for a wide range of habitats in the area.

DescriptionThe site encompasses a wide range of habitats on thehillsides of the Gardner River where it is joined by LavaCreek. The slopes are open, generally grassy meadowswith scattered aspen and conifers; the lower slopesgrade into sagebrush grasslands and some rocky, steepcliffs above the river bottom. Both the Gardiner River andLava Creek run through fairly deep canyons, so there isan elevational gradient throughout the site. The siteincludes the travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springswhich are used in winter by elk and bison, and perhapsother animals.

Key Environmental FactorsThe elevational gradient that characterizes the site iscaused by the erosion of the rivers and the surroundinggeology that is carved out. The thermal features at theHot Springs are independent of the rivers and geology.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith significant snow depth, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.

RarityOccurrences in the site generally have a GRank of G4 orG5. However, the regularity with which animals are seen,the concentration of occurrences, and the locations ofMammoth Hot Springs within the site tend to make it amore significant area that would be thought from theranks of the known species in the area.

Other ValuesAlthough there is a great deal of activity associated withthe Mammoth Visitor Center, it is still possible to see agreat deal of wildife in the area, and most of the area isfairly pristine.

Land UseThe land is currently used mostly for recreation by Parkvisitors. Since this is the Park Headquarters, there isheavy human use in the tourist season (which includessummer and winter), including hiking, mountain biking,visits to the Hot Springs Terraces, heavy car traffic,fishing, etc. in the summer, and as a destination pointwithin the Park for snowmobilers in the winter. In spite of

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the heavy use, animals still use the area probably due tothe warmth from the Hot Springs. Additionally theelevation drops here rather abruptly from the higherplateau to the south, also making it warmer which may bea factor in the off-season.

ExoticsMany exotic weeds were observed around the HotSprings terraces, probably brought in by the thousandsof summer visitors.

Information NeedsA thorough survey of the site would help define theboundaries.

McDonald Basin

DirectionsMcDonald Basin is located in the Beartooth Mountainsof south central Montana. From Dean, travel southwest-erly on Benbow Road for approximately 1.5 miles to ajunction with an un-named road to the south. Followthis road for 0.1 mile to a 4-wheel drive trail continuing tothe south. Continue on the 4-wheel drive trail for 2 milesto the site.

DescriptionThis complex of wetlands occurs in the montane zone onthe flanks of the Beartooth Mountains. The site ischaracterized by glacially formed depressions dissectedby small streams. These depressions, as well as Castorcanadensis (beaver) activity along the stream courses,have created the current wetland complex. In addition, afew fens have formed on gently sloping ground aroundseeps. Both the glacial potholes and the beaver-dammedwetlands are dominated by marsh vegetation, primarilyCarex utriculata (beaked sedge). Some wetter zones aredominated by Glyceria borealis (northern mannagrass),and Nuphar lutea (yellow pond-lily) dominates perma-nently flooded areas in the center of ponds. Alnusincana (mountain alder) stands have formed in the seepsand springs that permeate this area. Small inclusions ofwetter areas within the alder stands are dominated bygraminoids like Carex utriculata and Calamagrostiscanadensis (bluejoint reedgrass). Alnus incana standsalso occur along streams, as do stands of Salixgeyeriana / Carex utriculata (Geyer’s willow / beakedsedge). A couple of small fens have formed either inbasins fed by groundwater or around seeps on gentleslopes. A poorly described community type, which has alow coverage of Dasiphora fruticosa sap. floribunda(shrubby cinquefoil) and undergrowth dominated byCarex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge), dominates the fenvegetation. Other associated species are Carex interior(inland sedge), Carex lasiocarpa (slender sedge),Juncus alpinus (northern rush), Agrostis scabra (tickle

grass), Menyanthes trifoliata (bog buckbean), Asterjunciformis (rush aster), and a nearly continuous blanketof moss cover. Forests of Pinus contorta (lodgepolepine) and Abies lasiocarpa (subalpine fir) with under-growth of Spiraea betulifolia (birchleaf spiraea) andVaccinium globulare (globe huckleberry) dominate thesurrounding uplands.

Key Environmental FactorsSeeps, streamflow, and beaver activity all contribute tostructuring these wetlands.

RarityThree G3 communities in good condition were docu-mented: Alnus incana / Carex spp. (mountain alder /sedge), Carex buxbaumii (Buxbaum’s sedge), andDasiphora fruticosa sap. floribunda / Carex spp.(shrubby cinquefoil / sedge). Community diversity atthis site is very high.

Land UseHiking and hunting can be expected as a trail (old jeeproad) does traverse a portion of this wetland. Livestockgrazing occurs within the site as well, though only theAlnus incana / Carex spp. community has received suchuse as to produce hummocking.

ExoticsThe following exotic species generally comprised at most1% cover in drier portions of the site: Cirsium arvense(Canada thistle), Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle), Phleumpratense (common timothy), Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), and Poa palustris (fowl bluegrass).

UplandsForests in the immediate upland are second growth.There are a couple of diversion ditches that formerlywere used to augment the water levels in the lakes belowthe McDonald Wetlands.

Information NeedsNone were noted.

Management NeedsA weed management plant is particularly needed for thenoxious weeds, such as Cirsium arvense (Canadathistle), but grazing management should be part of theplan to control the other weeds/increaser species, suchas Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass).

Meeteetse Spires / Line Creek Foothills

DirectionsThis site is located on the northeast flank of theBeartooth Mountains (Line Creek Plateau foothills). FromRed Lodge, take Highway 212 south 5 miles. The site

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boundary is intercepted where Highway 212 crosses theCuster National Forest boundary.

DescriptionThis site encompasses the foothills of the Line CreekPlateau and Meeteetse Spires. The Meeteetse Spires area high narrow ridge of Madison limestone occurringalong the east foothills, below the plateau, where anuplift has raised the sedimentary beds on edge. Artemi-sia tridentata (sagebrush) steppe and Pinus flexilis(limber pine) woodland dominate these foothills. Severalspecies of plants in the vicinity of Meeteetse Spiresreach the northern limit of their geographical distributionin Carbon County, MT, and a number of northern RockyMountain limestone endemics occur on the limestone-derived substrate. At least 5 mammal species of specialconcern are known or likely to occur within this site.Also, the Madison limestone formations at MeeteetseSpires may provide habitat for a variety of bat species.The higher elevation slopes provide winter range forOvis canadensis (bighorn sheep) and the lower slopesprovide winter range for Alces alces (moose), Cervuselaphus (elk), and Odocoileus hemionus (mule deer).Elevations range from 5400 ft in the vicinity of MeeteetseSpires to 9000 ft near the Line Creek Plateau.

Key Environmental FactorsExtreme topographical gradient, rainshadow effects fromthe easterly position of this site relative to the Beartoothuplift, and local geology (i.e., limestone-derived soils) aremajor influencing factors.

RarityMeeteesee Spires is the largest of three known occur-rences of Shoshonea pulvinata (Shoshonea) in Mon-tana. Grassland and sagebrush steppe on sandycalcareous soils in the foothills and montane zones havepopulations of Haplopappus carthamoides var.subsquarrosus (Beartooth large-flowered goldenweed), aregional endemic. The Madison limestone formationsmay provide habitat for a variety of bat species. Thebiodiversity significance of this site is attributed to theinherent conservation value in the extreme elevationalgradient and associated diverse habitats, and theoccurrence of limestone-endemic plants.

Other ValuesThe exposed Madison limestone at Meeteetse Spires isan important geologic feature.

Land UseThe site is in relatively pristine condition. It has beenused primarily for livestock grazing; there are somemining claim stakes on the ridges. A number of “two-track” roads traverse the area, especially in the lower,eastern portion.

UplandsSurrounding land use is primarily associated withlivestock grazing.

Information NeedsThe Madison limestone formations at Meeteetse Spiresshould be inventoried for bats. Other surveys for animalspecies of special concern are needed.

Meeteetse Spires Macrosite

DirectionsFrom Belfry, take Hwy. 72 south about 4 miles to CountyRoad on the right; proceed west on this road about 5miles to a gate; obtain permission, and after gate,proceed west to South Fork Grove Creek. Site is about 5miles SSE of Red Lodge.

DescriptionThe site encompasses a series of spectacular uplifts onthe eastern edge of the Beartooth Mountains. Here thestrongly-tilted Madison limestone is the dominantfeature. The lower-elevation eastern portion is domi-nated by desert vegetation, while the higher, westernportion comprises Pseudostuga menziezzii (Douglas-fir)forests and mountain sagebrush grasslands.

Key Environmental FactorsSoils derived from limestone, and dry climate are impor-tant environmental factors.

RarityMeeteesee Spires is the largest of three known occur-rences of Shoshonea pulvinata (Shoshonea) in Mon-tana. Also, these formations may provide habitat for avariety of bat species.Other ValuesThe site includes important geological features, espe-cially the greatly-tilted drape folds of Madison limestonethat were formed by the uplift of the Beartooth Moun-tains.

Land UseThe site is in relatively pristine condition. It has beenused primarily for livestock grazing; there are somemining claim stakes on the ridges. A number of “two-track” roads traverse the area, especially in the lower,eastern portion.

ExoticsThere are currently no serious introduced weed prob-lems.

UplandsSurrounding land use is primarily for grazing.

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Information NeedsThe Madison limestone formations at Meeteetse Spiresshould be inventoried for bats. Rare plant monitoringstudies should be established.

Meyers Creek

DirectionsThe Meyers Creek site is located at the base of theBeartooth Mountains is south central Montana. FromNye, travel north on State Highway 420 for about 1 mile.Turn west on Forest Route 2142, following LimestoneCreek. Travel for 8.5 miles (turning north at Limestone)to the Meyers Creek Work Center. The site occurs as aseries of discontinuous aspen and willow-dominatedstands along Meyers Creek from the Work Center toapproximately 1 mile upstream.

DescriptionThis site is located along Meyers Creek. Stands of mesicaspen and willow, which occur as discontinuous patchesalong the creek and adjacent slopes, are the dominantcommunities. Throughout the site, riparian communitiesoccur primarily as narrow stringers along the activechannel of Meyers Creek. These communities arecharacterized by very small and discontinuous patchesof Picea engelmannii / Cornus sericea (Engelmannspruce / red-osier dogwood) and small patches of Salixboothii (Booth’s willow). These communities are veryheavily grazed and have high cover of exotic grasses,such as Bromus inermis (smooth brome) and Phleumpratense (common timothy).

In a few locations, the riparian zone supports largerstands of mesic aspen communities. These stands alsooccur on adjacent toe slopes subirrigated by groundwa-ter. The stands furthest upstream are Populustremuloides / Symphoricarpos albus (quaking aspen /common snowberry) and Populus tremuloides /Osmorhiza occidentalis (quaking aspen / western sweet-cicely) (the diagnostic Osmorhiza species present isactually Osmorhiza depauperata [blunt fruit sweet-cicely]). These stands are small and impacted fromgrazing. A Populus tremuloides / Cornus sericeacommunity occurs closer to the Work Center along thecreek and on an adjacent toe slope. The portion of thiscommunity along Meyers Creek is heavily grazed andhas abundant Phleum pratense and Bromus inermiscover. In contrast, the portion of this community on thetoe slope appears to be lightly browsed. It has an opencanopy of Populus tremuloides with minor colonizationof Picea engelmannii. The shrub component is diversewith Amelanchier alnifolia (serviceberry) andSymphoricarpos albus abundant and Cornus sericeawell represented. The herbaceous layer is diverse:Elymus glaucus (blue wildrye) is abundant and numer-

ous mesic forbs, including Solidago canadensis (Canadagoldenrod), Viola canadensis (Canadian violet),Osmorhiza depauperata, Heracleum maximum (cow-parsnip), Glycyrrhiza lepidota (American licorice), andGalium triflorum (sweet-scented bedstraw) are common.This community also occurs in the Meyers Creekfloodplain close to the Work Center, but this stand ischaracterized by an open overstory of mature andsenescent Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa (blackcottonwood) with an open mid-canopy of Populustremuloides. Saplings and small poles of Piceaengelmannii are well established. Cornus sericea, Salixboothii, and Symphoricarpos occidentalis (westernsnowberry) dominate the shrub layer, while mesic forbsand grasses similar to the previous stand represent theherbaceous layer. These stands have low cover ofseveral exotic species, including Phleum pratense,Cynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue), Cirsiumvulgare (bull thistle), and Bromus inermis.

Uplands at the site are characterized by grasslands onsouth-facing slopes and Picea engelmannii /Physocarpus malvaceus (Engelmann spruce / ninebark)and Pseudotsuga menziesii / Physocarpus malvaceus(Douglas-fir / ninebark) stands on north-facing slopes.

Key Environmental FactorsGroundwater flows both along Meyers Creek and fromadjacent slopes provide the site moisture that supportsthe mesic and riparian communities. Meyers Creek is anintermittent stream (dry during the site visit) with verylittle floodplain development. Portions of the site areheavily browsed, which has altered the structure andcomposition of vegetation at the site.

RarityNo plant or animal species of special concern wereobserved. Very small examples of two G3? communitieswere documented in fair to good condition. These werePopulus tremuloides / Osmorhiza occidentalis (quakingaspen / western sweet-cicely) and Populus tremuloides /Symphoricarpos albus (quaking aspen / commonsnowberry).

Land UseLivestock actively grazes this site. A fence separates theupper and lower portions of the site. The upper portionis heavily grazed, while the lower portion receives somegrazing pressure from horse and cow.

ExoticsPhleum pratense (common timothy) and Bromus inermis(smooth brome) are well established at the site. Otherexotic species are currently present at low cover but arelikely to expand in the future. These includeCynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue), Cirsiumvulgare (bull thistle), and Cirsium arvense (Canada

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thistle). On south-facing slopes, the adjacent uplandcommunities have abundant Phleum pratense andBromus inermis cover. This provides a large seed sourcefor these species to colonize more mesic riparian sites.

UplandsLivestock grazes the bottomland along Meyers Creek.The surrounding uplands are National Forest lands.These may also be grazed but have no other apparentmanagement activities. Lands below the mouth ofMeyers Creek in the Limestone drainage are in privateownership and ranching and agricultural land usespredominate.

Information NeedsWhat is the grazing history of the site?

Management NeedsControl of noxious weeds, especially Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue), Cirsium vulgare (bullthistle), and Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), is needed.Also, the grazing intensity on the upper portions of thesite should be reduced.

Mill Creek

DirectionsMill Creek flows from the Absaroka Mountains into theYellowstone River from the east. The drainage is ac-cessed from Highway 89 by turning east onto Mill CreekRoad, approximately 36 miles north of Gardiner, MT and17 miles south of Livingston, MT.

DescriptionThe Mill Creek Site includes the entire upper Mill Creekdrainage from approximately two miles northwest of theNational Forest boundary. Approximately half of the siteis within the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Geneticallypure Oncorhynchus clarki bouveri (Yellowstonecutthroat trout) occur in the drainage. A barrier in thecreek below the East Fork of Mill Creek preventsOncorhynchu. Mykiss (rainbow trout) from movingupstream in the Mill Creek drainage. Fisheries biologistshave rated the habitat for Yellowstone cutthroat trout aslimited to moderate. This site provides important winterrange for Cervus elaphus (elk), Alces alces (moose) andOdocoileus hemionus (mule deer). Erigeronformosissimus var. viscidus (fleabane) and Carexmulticostata (many-ribbed sedge) are S1 plant speciesfound within this site. Two caves (Mill Creek CrystalCave and Montanaopolis Cave) may provide habitat forbats. However, the precise location of MontanaopolisCave is unknown. Two proposed Research Natural Areas(East Fork Mill Creek Proposed RNA and Passage CreekProposed RNA) occur within this site. The East Fork MillCreek Proposed RNA contains Picea engelmannii /

Physocarpus malvaceous (Engelmann spruce /ninebark), Picea engelmannii / Cornus stolonifera(Englemann spruce / red-osier dogwood), Piceaengelmannii / Linnaea borealis (Engelmann spruce /twinflower), Abies lasiocarpa / Linnaea borealis(subalpine fir / twinflower), Abies lasiocarpa /Vaccinium globulare (subalpine fir / globe huckleberry),Pseudotsuga menziesii / Physocarpus malvaceus(Douglas-fir / ninebark), Pseudotsuga menziesii / Carexgeyeri (Douglas-fir / elk sedge), Pseudotsuga menziesii /Linaea borealis (Douglas-fir / twinflower) and Festucaidahoensis / Agropyron caninum (Idaho fescue / slenderwheatgrass) habitat types. Also, several seeps and bogsoccur within the Mill Creek Proposed RNA. The PassageCreek Proposed RNA contains Picea engelmannii /Physocarpus malvaceous (Engelmann spruce /ninebark), Picea engelmannii / Linnaea borealis(Engelmann spruce / twinflower), Abies lasiocarpa /Linnaea borealis (subalpine fir / twinflower), Abieslasiocarpa / Vaccinium globulare (subalpine fir / globehuckleberry), Abies lasiocarpa - Pinus albicaulis /Vaccinium scoparium (subalpine fir-whitebark pine /grouse whortleberry), Pseudotsuga menziesii /Physocarpus malvaceus (Douglas-fir / ninebark),Pseudotsuga menziesii / Carex geyeri (Douglas-fir / elksedge), Pseudotsuga menziesii / Linaea borealis(Douglas-fir / twinflower) and Festuca idahoensis /Agropyron caninum (Idaho fescue / slender wheat-grass), Artemesia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis (bigsage / Idaho fescue) habitat types. Other forest habitattypes and riparian types are present.

Key Environmental FactorsElevation, slope and aspect are primary determinants inthe location of ungulate winter range. Fire is a primaryecological process important to the maintenance offorest / meadow ecotones and a patchwork of vegetationtypes. Drainages to the north and west of the PasssageCreek Proposed RNA burned in 1991.

RarityThe primary value of the Mill Creek site is the existenceof populations of genetically-pure Oncorhynchus clarkibouvieri (Yellowstone cutthroat trout). The presence ofcaves and two proposed Research Natural Areascontribute to the value of this site.

ExoticsRainbow trout are present in the lower reaches of MillCreek, apparently below a barrier. The extent of exoticplant infestation is unknown.

Information NeedsSurvey of the Mill Creek Crystal Cave for bats and othercave-dwelling organisms is needed. Also an attemptshould be made to locate and survey the MontanaopolisCave. More extensive plant surveys are also needed.

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Information on the extent and pattern of grizzly bear useof this area would be beneficial. Evaluation of conditionand status of riparian communities is needed. Elevationsat the site range from 5412 ft. (1650 m) to 9800 ft. (2809m).

Mud Lake-Boulder River

DirectionsMud Lake-Boulder River is in the Absaroka Range insouth central Montana. From McLeod travel 12 milessouth on State Route 298 to Contact Creek. Mud Lake-Boulder River is located 1.5 miles westerly upstream onContact Creek.

DescriptionMud Lake is a shallow, seasonally flooded lake thatoccurs in a glacially formed depression along an intermit-tent creek. The creek, which is the primary water source,also drains the lake. The lake apparently dries down to amud flat by the end of some growing seasons. At thetime of the site visit, the lake was a mud flat dominatedby equal portions of unvegetated mud and anEleocharis palustris (common spikerush) community.The margins of the lake had a patchy drawdown zonewhere Polygonum amphibium (water smartweed) andMentha arvensis (field mint) were common. At theupstream end of the lake, the Eleocharis palustriscommunity graded into a Carex utriculata (beakedsedge) community on sites with a shorter period ofstanding water. Adjacent to the Carex utriculatacommunity, and at a slightly drier position, is a Salixdrummondiana / Calamagrostis canadensis(Drummond’s willow / bluejoint reedgrass) community.The actual undergrowth dominant was Calamagrostisinexpansa (narrow-spiked reedgrass), which is consid-ered by Hansen et al. (1995) to be an ecological equiva-lent of Calamagrostis canadensis for managementpurposes. The uplands are dominated by Pseudotsugamenziesii (Douglas-fir) and Pinus contorta (lodgepolepine) forests.

Key Environmental FactorsThis wetland is the product of favorable geomorphology(a glacial depression) and proximity to an intermittentcreek that seasonally floods. The flooding and drying-down processes structure the resulting plant communi-ties.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. One G3 plantassociation, Salix drummondiana / Calamagrostiscanadensis (Drummond’s willow / bluejoint reedgrass),was documented in fair condition.

Other ValuesHeavy use by ungulates was noted along with Ursusamericanus (black bear) scat and tracks. Rana pretiosa(spotted frog) and Thamnophis sirtalis (common gartersnake) were also present.

Land UseNo land use was apparent, though the area has highpotential for hunting, outfitter, and wildlife watching use.An unconfirmed report indicates that a lodge on theBoulder River stages outfitted trips from this point. Theubiquity and abundance of pasture grasses and in-creaser forbs implies a past grazing use.

ExoticsPhleum pratense (common timothy) and Poa palustris(fowl bluegrass) are prevalent at the lake inlet. Poapratensis is an important component in the uplandmeadow at the south end of the lake. Scattered popula-tions of Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle) and Trifoliumpratense (red clover) are present throughout the site.

UplandsThe meadow communities immediately adjacent to thewetlands have abundant cover of pasture grasses andincreaser forbs, which indicates that the area was grazedin the past. Other uses or disturbances were notdocumented.

Information NeedsWhat is the reason for the high populations of pasturegrasses?

Management NeedsNone were identified.

Nurses Lake

DirectionsNote: a portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access that area.Nurses Lake is east of the West Boulder River in southcentral Montana. From McLeod, travel south on WestBoulder Road for approximately 11 miles to un-namedroad bearing east. Proceed on the un-named road for 2miles in a generally southeasterly direction to NursesLake wetland.

DescriptionThis site is a complex of small, steep-sided, muck-bottomed glacial potholes located in a morainal landformsurrounded by aspen-conifer forest. Based on theconvex shape of the moraine and the low conductivity(160 µS/cm) of water in the potholes, the water source forthis site is primarily precipitation and subsequentdrainage into the potholes. Smaller potholes (0.5-1 ac)

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generally have a fringe of Carex utriculata (beakedsedge) on the margin and a Sparganium angustifolium(narrowleaf bur-reed) community growing in the mucky-bottomed central portion of the pothole. Sparganiumangustifolium grows as an emergent community in thissetting; associated species include Sagittaria cuneata(arumleaf arrowhead), Potamogeton gramineus (grassypondweed), Ranunculus gmelinii (Gmelin’s buttercup),Lemna minor (common duckweed), and Lemna trisulca(star duckweed). Larger potholes (2-4 ac) have anaquatic community in the middle with Carex utriculatagrowing on the margins. Nearly all the potholes havescattered shrubs growing on the margins, includingSalix boothii (Booth’s willow), Salix geyeriana (Geyer’swillow), and Salix bebbiana (Bebb willow). The sur-rounding uplands are mostly dominated by a Populustremuloides / Symphoricarpos (trembling aspen /snowberry) cover type, which also has a high cover ofCalamagrostis rubescens (pinegrass).

Key Environmental FactorsThese glacial depressions are seasonally flooded by(mostly) overland flow. This dynamic is the primaryfactor for maintenance of these communities.

RarityNo rare plants, animals, or communities were observed.

Other ValuesAbundant Rana pretiosa (spotted frog) were found inthe Sparganium angustifolium (narrowleaf bur-reed)community, and Alces alces (moose) were feeding in thevarious aquatic communities. Several specimens of agiven type of snail were collected for identification.

Land UseThe Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) community islightly grazed whether from Alces alces (moose) or cattleis unknown. Past grazing may have been intense,judging from the extent of exotic species andhummocking.

ExoticsThe only exotics are in the bankfull area of drawdownzone and the immediate upland. These include Cirsiumvulgare (bull thistle), Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle),Cynoglossum officinalis (hound’s tongue), Trifoliumpratense (red clover), and pasture grasses such asAgrostis stolonifera (redtop) and Phleum pratense(common timothy).

UplandsAdjacent public lands are lightly grazed while those inprivate ownership are heavily impacted. Cattle useponds in the near vicinity.

Information NeedsSome of the potholes had unusual algal blooms. Is thisthe result of excessive fertilization from cattle use in thebasin?

Management NeedsThe site could benefit from a weed management plan,while the population levels are still controllable.

Obsidian Creek

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau - along Obsidian Creek from RoaringMountain downstream (north) to Willow Park. The sitelies along the Loop Road for about 8 miles betweenNorris and Mammoth, starting at about 2.5 miles north ofNorris. This road is closed in winter.

DescriptionThe site encompasses the riparian area along upperObsidian Creek. The creek occupies a generally narrowvalley from the vicinity of Roaring Mountain down-stream (north) to Willow Park. At times the valley is quitenarrow, at other times it is broader, and only opens up toa meadow in the vicinity of Obsidian Cliff. The easternedge of the valley is generally steep; the western edgeincreases and decreases with the underlying geology.The headwaters of Obsidian Creek are at RoaringMountain, a thermal hillside that is quite active. Thewater and steam vents in the area tend to move aroundon a regular basis, triggered by earthquakes andlandslumps. The creek is fed by hot springs (Clearwaterand Apollinaris Springs) and geysers (Semi-CentennialGeyser) directly on the creek, and from tributaries to theeast which also arise in thermal areas (AmphitheaterSprings). It could be that these features tend to warm thetemperature of Obsidian Creek enough so that it remainsflowing throughout the year, but this hypothesis needsto be substantiated. The Loop Road closely followsObsidian Creek for about 7.75 miles and is thus includedin the site.

Key Environmental FactorsSince the site is a riparian area, continued creek flow isthe primary key. The creek is known to flow all year long,so this is not a problem.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith a high amount of snow, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.

RarityMost of the occurrences within the site are ranked G4 orG5. The occurrence of Rana lutrieventris, G3G4, ishistorical, based on a specimen. Eleocharis flavescens

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var. thermale has a rank of G5T2T3Q, but the occurrenceitself is unranked. Due to the lack of information aboutthe elements with higher priority GRanks, including the“Q” for the Eleocharis sp., a preliminary rank of B4 hasbeen assigned.

Other ValuesVery scenic. It is expected that wide-ranging megafaunaalso use the area.

Land UseCurrent land use is visits by summer tourists, for picnicsand sightseeing. Many cars drive the road in summer,and there are 2 designated picnic grounds along theCreek. A campground is marked on the both the 1:100,000and the 1:24,000 maps at the north end of Willow Park,with accompanying structures like restrooms, waterpumps, garbage shelters, etc.; it may no longer beoperating. The road is closed in winter, but it is sus-pected that the area is used by winter visitors, bothskiers and snowmobilers; the extent of the use isunknown.

ExoticsIn a very brief survey in September 1997, no exotics wereseen, but survey is needed. Exotics are expected near theroad and visitor areas.

Information NeedsSurvey to establish boundaries and determine associatedelements are present. There may also be other elementsin the area.

Pat O’Hara Mountain

DirectionsAbsaroka Mountains, Pat O’Hara Mountain on theeastern flank of the mountains. It is a distinctive east-west trending mountain about 15 miles northwest ofCody, on the divide between the Clark’s Fork and theNorth Fork Shoshone River drainages. In general, accessis by foot from the numerous trails in the area. From thenorth, one can drive close to the site on a recent FSlogging road off the Chief Joseph Highway. Roads alsocome near the site from the south and east, but theycross private land and may be closed or may be toomuddy to drive on. Trails from the Rattlesnake Creek/Mountain area and Dead Indian Meadows allow accessto the western part of the site; the hike can be from 5 to10 miles on these trails.

DescriptionThe area includes limestone outcrops on the flank andsummit of Pat O’Hara Mountain, a distinctive east-westtrending mountain at the edge of the Absaroka Range.Lower slopes are vegetated with Engelmann spruce/

heartleaf arnica forests, but there are also small stands oflimber pine woodlands. Idaho fescue-tufted hairgrass,curly sedge-sheep cinquefoil, and mountain avens-curlysedge communities occur on the upper parts of ridgesand on dry slopes. The underlying substrate is paleozoicdolomite, which supports a suite of plant speciesendemic to calcareous substrates. The tableland on theridgeline of the mountain is very exposed and windy, andalpine habitat occurs at a lower elevation than usual. Insome areas, the finer soil has blown away completely,leaving only pebbles and rocks. The site follows the 8800foot contour up to Pat O’Hara Peak, at the summit of theridge, although there are several other high pointsseparated by saddles. WYNDD conducted a biologicalsurvey in the summer of 1997 to assess RNA values(Jones and Fertig 1999). There are many springs above8800 feet due to the extensive faulting of the overthrustof limestone. The headwaters of seven creeks are withinthe site: Rattlesnake, Big Tree, and Iron Creeks draininginto the North Fork of the Shoshone River; Pat O’Hara,Dry Fork of Pat O’Hara, Morning, and Dead IndianCreeks draining into the Clark’s Fork.

Key Environmental FactorsGeology - the limestone outcrop makes this a uniquearea.

RarityThe rank of this site is based on the presence of severalrare plant populations, including one of Lomatiumattenuatum (Absaroka biscuitroot), a G3-ranked regionalendemic, and Festuca halli (Hall’s fescue), a Region 2Sensitive Species. There are also five uncommonregional endemics and peripheral species, includingPyrrocoma carthamoides var. subsquarrosa (a Region 2Sensitive Species).

Land UseThere are many trails in the area, and a main trail over thedivide between Dead Indian Meadows and RattlesnakeCreek runs across the western section of the site. TheMooncrest VABM (microwave repeater) is located on thetop of Pat O’Hara Peak, and an old 4-wheel drive road tothe installation is indicated on the map.

ExoticsNo significant populations.

Management NeedsMost of the site is within the North Absaroka WildernessArea. There are no obvious threats to the site, such aslarge populations of exotic plants, heavy livestockgrazing, or heavy recreational use. Higher elevation areasare relatively difficult to access, and motor vehicles areprohibited (Jones and Fertig 1999).

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Pine Ridge

DirectionsPine Ridge is located north of Hardin in south centralMontana. From Hardin, take I-90 north to exit 495. FollowHwy. 47, 2.5 miles north. Turn left at road 282. Travel 6miles to road 34 which eventually reaches the tope ofPine Ridge (aprox. 6.5 miles). Follow road 271 to Section22 which is state school section.

DescriptionPine Ridge is an extensive uplifted sandstone plateaudefined by a steep sandstone escarpment on thesouthwest and gently dipping towards the YellowstoneRiver to the northwest. It is typical of the arid upliftedplateaus and mesas in the sedimentary plains surround-ing Billings, Montana. Pine Ridge is dissected byintermittent streams and coulees resulting in couleeslopes, ridges and benchlands. Pinus ponderosa /Pseudoroegneria spicata (ponderosa pine / bluebunchwheatgrass) woodlands occur on the ridge outcrops andcoulee slopes where it forms a dominant woodlandthroughout. The woodland is interrupted by small patchPseudoroegneria spicata herbaceous grassland types.Gentle slopes and benchlands on the plateau aredominated by Pseudoroegneria spicata grasslands;Pascopyrom smithii (western wheatgrass), Stipa comata(needle-and-thread grass), Poa secunda (sandberg’sbluegrass) or Koeleria macrantha (junegrass) co-dominant with the Pseudoroegneria to form a matrix offour different herbaceous vegetation types. Pine Ridgedrains to the north; alluvial materials collect in theintermittent stream bottom.

Key Environmental FactorsThe arid environment coupled with coarse sandy soilsweathered from sandstone contribute to a rather dryenvironment. Fire helps maintain the herbaceousgrassland community ecotone and the low woodlandcover values.

RarityThe woodland and four grassland associations are allrelatively common within the sedimentary plains. Theuplifted sandstone plateau lends itself to an intactlandscape with no barriers to fire spread or seed dis-persal. The site is a large extensive area unbroken bycrops or housing developments. Ungulates can cross themany fence lines that serve to keep cattle within pas-tures.

Other ValuesEchinacea angustifolia is scatted along grasslandbenches throughout the state school sections. The siteprovides suitable habitat for Mule deer and antelope.

Land UsePine Ridge is primarily private property with some stateschool sections. The site was inventoried and describedfrom a block of state land located on the benchlands andupper coulee slopes. Cattle grazing occurs throughoutwith subsequent fencing and salting sites and probablysome water developments. Some logging has occurred inthe past and many roads dissect the benchland.

ExoticsAnnual bromes, Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) andBromus japonicas (Japanese brome) as well as Plantagopatagonica (Indian-wheat) provide evidence of pastgrazing.

Information NeedsAn inventory of the intermittent stream drainage bottomsat Kaiser Creek and Sand Creek would contribute to amore complete record for this site.

Management NeedsIn many places, young Pinus ponderosa (Ponderosapine) are filling in the grassland edges, a successionalconsequence of fire suppression. A prescribed burn,especially to control the young seedlings and saplings,would keep this successional sequence in check andmaintain the herbaceous vegetation.

Pruit Park

DirectionsNote: Pruit Park is located on private land, and land-owner permission is required to access this site. PruitPark is located in the foothills of the Absaroka Range insouth central Montana. From McLeod, travel south onState Route 298 for 0.5 mile. Turn onto the Wet BoulderRoad and travel west-southwest for approximately 12miles to the West Boulder trailhead. Hike east on ForestTrail 14. After reaching the top of the hill slope (approxi-mately 1 mile), head cross-country bearing south-southeast for approximately 0.8 mile. The site is locatedon the northern edge of Pruit Park.

DescriptionPruit Park occurs on an elevated bench of glacial origin,and the site receives groundwater from the adjacentslope. The site is dominated by a Salix wolfii /Deschampsia caespitosa (Wolf willow / tufted hairgrass)community. Shallow swales are more mesic and supportCarex aquatilis (water sedge). Pole and sapling-sizedclumps of Picea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce) arescattered throughout this community.

Key Environmental FactorsSubirrigation from the adjacent slope is the primaryenvironmental influence on the vegetation at this site.

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RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.One G3 plant community, Salix wolfii / Deschampsiacaespitosa (Wolf willow / tufted hairgrass), was docu-mented in fair to good condition.Land UseUse of the site appears to be minimal. Cattle sign wasobserved, and willows are heavily browsed, althoughprobably more by Alces alces (moose) than by cattle.

ExoticsPoa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) is well establishedin drier portions of the site.

UplandsA cabin is located in Pruit Park near the site. The siteborders the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area andthe landscape context is largely pristine.

Information NeedsWhat is the grazing history of the site? How heavy iswild ungulate browsing pressure?

Rattlesnake Mountain

DirectionsAbsaroka Range, Rattlesnake Mountain, extending fromUS Highway 14, 16 and 20 near Buffalo Bill Reservoirnorthwest to Pat O’Hara Basin, west-northwest of Cody(north side of North Fork Shoshone River drainage).Includes The Palisades and the upper end of theRattlesnake Creek canyon.

DescriptionThe site contains a broad, long ridgecrest with grass-lands and forb communties, interspersed with lodgepolepine and subalpine fir forest stands. Soils are derivedfrom limestone or the Chugwater formation and are oftengravelly or high in organic matter. The Palisades portionis composed of steep, forested cliffs with limestoneoutcrops that are important rare plant habitat. Openmeadows on the slopes and summits of low knolls areoften dominated by Festuca idahoensis, Koeleriamacrantha, or locally by Festuca hallii. They also maycontain Artemisia tridentata var. vaseyana or, alongdraws, Artemisia tridentata var. wyomingensis. Bound-aries were selected to encompass the habitat of a suite ofcalceophilic rare plants and communities. The sitecontains a broad, long ridge crest with grasslands andforb communties interspersed with lodgepole pine andsubalpine fir forest stands. Soils are derived fromlimestone or the Chugwater formation and may begravelly or high in organic matter. The Palisades portionis composed of steep, forested cliffs with limestoneoutcrops that are important rare plant habitat. Openmeadows on the slopes and summits of low knolls are

often dominated by Festuca idahoensis, Koeleriamacrantha, or locally by Festuca hallii. They also maycontain Artemisia tridentata var. vaseyana or, alongdraws, Artemisia tridentata var. wyomingensis. Scenicvalues are high.

Key Environmental FactorsLimestone substrate.

RarityThe site contains 2 A-ranked occurrences of Shoshoneapulvinata (G2G3S2) and a cluster of at least 8 other highranking regional endemic plant species. Among the rarespecies are Shoshonea pulvinata (Shoshonea), Festucahallii (Hall’s fescue) and Pyrrocoma carthamoides var.subsquarrosa (Absaroka goldenweed), which are listedas sensitive by the U.S. Forest Service. Lomatiumattenuatum (Absaroka biscuitroot) and Selasphorusrufus (Rufous hummingbird) also occur off of the Foreston nearby BLM land.

Other ValuesGreat scenery, wildlife habitat.

Land UseTimber, recreation, possibly oil/gas in future, rangeland(grazing).

Information NeedsSite evaluation (Suitability Investigation Report).

Riverfront Park

DirectionsRiverfront Park is located in the sedimentary unglaciatedGreat Plains of south central Montana. In Billings, travelsouth on South Billings Boulevard from Interstate 90.Riverfront Park is located just before the road crossesthe Yellowstone River.

DescriptionRiverfront Park occurs on the floodplain of theYellowstone River. The site is a mosaic of cottonwoodforest interspersed with shrub openings, ponds,sloughs, and developed recreation and parking areas.Most cottonwood stands at this site are open galleryforests of mature Populus deltoides (plains cottonwood)with a mid-story of the exotic Elaeagnus angustifolia(Russian olive) and an understory dominated by exoticpasture grasses, predominately Bromus inermis (smoothbrome) and Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass). Withinthis community there are small inclusions where nativeshrubs are present. These patches have low to moderatecover of Cornus sericea (red-osier dogwood), Acernegundo (box-elder), Salix lutea (yellow willow), andToxicodendron rydbergii (poison ivy). The eastern

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portion of the site contains Populus deltoides standswith a dense cover of the exotic shrub Rhamnuscathartica (common buckthorn).

Fluvial processes, including erosion, deposition, andassociated channel migration, are active at the site, andthis has created suitable habitat for cottonwood regen-eration. Young stands of Populus deltoides and Salixexigua (sandbar willow) are colonizing recent bars, withsmall Populus deltoides saplings primarily colonizingraised deposits of silt. In many areas, especially alongside channels not having received recent deposition,there are stands of Salix exigua with a dense groundlayer dominated by the aggressive exotic Phalarisarundinacea (reed canarygrass). Higher deposits havean older cohort of pole-sized Populus angustifolia(narrowleaf cottonwood) with an understory dominatedby Bromus inermis and the noxious weed Euphorbiaesula (leafy spurge).

This site also contains a small Symphoricarposoccidentalis (western snowberry) community with highcover of Pascopyrum smithii (western wheatgrass), smallstands of Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail) aroundponds, and a very small stand of Populus balsamiferasap. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood /red-osier dogwood).

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and the resulting floodplain develop-ment is the primary abiotic influence at the site. Castorcanadensis (beaver) are also important and are causingcottonwood and willow mortality in places.

RarityNo rare plants or animals were observed. A very smallexample of a G3 community, Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) was documented in fair condition.

Other ValuesWhile most of the cottonwood forests at this site aredegraded, they still provide important habitat for wildlife,including nesting habitat for many species of Neotropi-cal migrant birds. Also, active cottonwood regenerationis occurring at this site.

Land UseThis site is a county park, and it receives heavy recre-ational use, especially fishing use around the lakes.There are many paved roads and trails throughout thesite, and vehicle tracks were observed on recent flood-plain deposits.

ExoticsExotic pasture grasses, primarily Bromus inermis(smooth brome) and Poa pratensis (Kentucky blue-

grass), dominate the ground layer at this site. Inaddition, several species of noxious weed are estab-lished, including Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge),Centaurea maculosa (spotted knapweed), andCynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue). Wetter siteshave heavy cover of Phalaris arundinacea (reedcanarygrass). Perhaps most troubling, most of thecottonwood stands have a midstory dominated byElaeagnus angustifolia (Russian olive). It is likely thatas the cottonwoods die (and many of the cottonwoodsare mature or senescent), these stands will convert to anElaeagnus angustifolia-dominated community. Thisconversion will have unknown habitat and biodiversityimplications.

UplandsThe surrounding area is dominated by urban andagricultural land uses.

Information NeedsWhat is the history of gravel extraction at the site?

Management NeedsThe park needs a noxious weed management plan.

Sage Creek

DirectionsSage Creek is located west of the Pryor Mountains insouth central Montana. From Warren, travel 1.25 milessouth on State Highway 310 to Sage Creek wetland.

DescriptionThis site is composed of marsh and willow bottomvegetation associated with the floodplain of Sage Creek,a meandering, low gradient stream in the northern end ofthe Bighorn Basin between the Beartooth Plateau andthe Pryor Mountains. Surface and groundwater fromSage Creek are the water sources for this wetland. Somevery old beaver dams suggest that beaver played ahistoric role in shaping these wetlands. There was nowater flowing in Sage Creek at the time of the site visit.The adjacent upland is dominated by Artemisiatridentata (big sagebrush), Sarcobatus vermiculatus(black greasewood), and Leymus cinereus (basinwildrye). The wettest and largest community at the siteis Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail). Two minor commu-nities, Schoenoplectus maritimus (alkali bulrush) andEleocharis palustris (common spikerush), occupyslightly drier positions. Carex pellita (woolly sedge) isalso a dominant community at the site and it occurs onpositions somewhat drier than the previously listedcommunities. All these emergent communities occur inwhat are perhaps old oxbows or old beaver pondsassociated with Sage Creek. Willow communities alsoform a significant portion of the site. Salix exigua

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(sandbar willow) is a minor community that occurs onboth low and high terraces. Salix lutea (yellow willow)forms the largest willow community. It occurs on ahigher terrace, and it lacks any significant graminoid orforb coverage within the ground layer, possibly becauseof past grazing. Small patches of Distichlis spicata(saltgrass) can be found in the driest areas at the marginsof the wetland.

Key Environmental FactorsThis site receives annual floods and may be somewhatexpanded in size due to past beaver activity.

RarityNo rare plants, animals, or communities were observed.

Land UseThough there has been grazing in the past currentevidence points to low levels or grazing.

ExoticsVarious combinations of Sonchus uliginosus (marshcow-thistle), Chenopodium album (lambsquarters),Alopecurus arundinaceus (creeping foxtail), Arctiumminus (common burdock), Cardaria sp. (hoarycress),and Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle) were found in allcommunities except for Schoenoplectus maritimus(saltmarsh clubrush).

UplandsUpstream on Sage Creek there is a limestone mill andadjacent to the west is an active railroad line (effects ofeither, unknown). Livestock grazing occurs on adjacentprivate and public lands.

Information NeedsHow has the highway and railroad affected the riparianecology?

Management NeedsThe dewatering of Sage Creek needs to be halted topreserve the extent of the wetland.

Sawtooth Fen-Palsa

DirectionsBeartooth Plateau, wetlands about 0.8 air miles east ofSawtooth Lake and south of Sawtooth Mountain (southof Beartooth Pass).

DescriptionSawtoothe Fen-Palsa is the only known fen-palsa in thelower 48 states, representing the southernmost suchoccurrence in North America. Boundaries were drawn toenclose the fen-palsa and a buffer area. The area is asub-alpine, shallow topographic drainage basin with

moderate slopes of southwest exposure surrounding flat,wet, boggy, bottomlands. The sub-alpine meadow hasraised, frost-fractured peat polygons. The graminoidpalsa is raised approximately 3 ft. above the surroundingCarex fen, and is underlain by permafrost andthermokarst topography, such as thaw depression lakes,rock polygons, and frost pillows. Additionally, peat bedshave formed in the past. No high-priority plant or animalspecies are known at this time. Mosses (but no sphag-num), Carex spp., and rushes characterize the fen, andlow graminoids are found in the fellfields around thepeatbeds. Shrubs and forest communities surround thearea.

ClimateAn alpine climate with cold winters, persistent snowfall,late springs, summers with cold nights and afternoonrainfall, and the possibility of snow at any time.

RarityThis site was selected for its unusual permafrost-influenced peat and wetland communities and itsDeschampsia cespitosa - Carex spp. herbaceousvegetation. This is the only known fen-palsa in theconterminous U.S., and the southernmost such occur-rence in North America.

Other ValuesWyoming’s only documented permafrost site; greatscenery.

Land UseGrazed, sometimes heavily; primitive dirt road nearby.

Information NeedsSuitability Investigation Report/Establishment Record.Field work is necessary to establish whether the siteboundaries are sufficient to maintain the features forwhich the site was designed.

Sliding Mountain / Sixmile Creek

DirectionsThis site is located within the Absaroka Mountains,approximately 7 miles south of Emigrant, MT. SixmileCreek flows into the Yellowstone River from the east. Thesite is accessed from Highway 89 by crossing theYellowstone River at Emigrant to the East River road andfollowing the East River Road south to Sixmile CreekRoad.

DescriptionSixmile Creek, from Gold Prize Creek to the North Fork ofSixmile Creek contains genetically pure Yellowstonecutthroat trout and the habitat value is rated as substan-tial by fisheries biologists. The North Fork of Sixmile

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contains potentially pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout,with no record of contaminating species. Also, Big PineCreek (tributary of Sixmile Cr.) may contain pureYellowstone cutthroat trout. The Sliding MountainProposed RNA is located completely within the SixmileCreek drainage. This proposed RNA contains Piceaengelmannii / Physocarpus malvaceous (Engelmannspruce / ninebark), Picea engelmannii / Galiumtriflorum (Englemann spruce / sweetscented bedstraw),Picea engelmannii / Linnaea borealis (Engelmannspruce / twinflower), Abies lasiocarpa / Linnaeaborealis (subalpine fir / twinflower), Abies lasiocarpa /Vaccinium globulare (subalpine fir / globe huckleberry),Abies lasiocarpa / Vaccinium scoparium (subalpine fir /grouse whortleberry), Abies lasiocarpa / Alnus sinuata(subalpine fir / Sitka alder), Pseudotsuga menziesii /Physocarpus malvaceus (Douglas-fir / ninebark),Pseudotsuga menziesii / Carex geyeri (Douglas-fir / elksedge), Pseudotsuga menziesii / Spiraea betulifolia(Douglas-fir / shiny-leaf spiraea), Artemisia tridentata /Festuca idahoensis (big sagebrush / Idaho fescue) andFestuca idahoensis / Agropyron caninum (Idaho fescue/ slender wheatgrass) habitat types. Pinus albicaulis(whitebark pine) communities occupy the high elevationforests. The Sliding Mountain area contains exposedMadison Limestone, which is uncommon in the volcanic-derived Absaroka Range. Grizzly bear occur within theSixmile drainage and may inhabit the proposed RNA attimes. The Sixmile drainage provides important winterrange for Alces alces (moose) and Cervus elaphus (elk).Also, contained within this site is the Dome MountainWildlife Management Area, which protects crucialungulate winter range.

Key Environmental FactorsExposed wind-blown slopes and southern exposures arekey factors determining ungulate winter range distribu-tion. Due to the extremely steep topography in thevicinity of Sliding Mountain, avalanche and rock / landslides may be important natural disturbances, in additionto fire.

RarityThe primary values of this site are the populations ofgenetically-pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout (G4T2),ungulate winter range and Sliding Mountain ProposedResearch Natural Area.

ExoticsThe extent of exotic plant infestations in this site isunknown. Rainbow trout are in the Sixmile Creekdrainage downstream from Gold Prize Creek. We have noinformation on the presence of barriers to fish movement.

Information NeedsPlant and animal surveys are needed, as well as anassessment of the threats to the site (e.g., exotic plant

distributions). Information on the extent and pattern ofgrizzly bear use of this area would be beneficial.

Slough Creek / Lamar River

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau, confluence of Slough Creek andthe Lamar River just north of Specimen Ridge. The site isan open flat area of wetlands and meandering river andcreeks. It lies on the Northeast Entrance Road about 5miles west of Tower Junction; this road is open all yearround. The site can be easily reached by taking theturnoff to Slough Creek Campground and horse corral,and parking along this road.

DescriptionThe Slough Creek/Lamar River site is open grasslandmeadow of grasses and Carex spp. with the meanderingcourses of the Lamar River and Slough and CrystalCreeks. The site includes the wetlands in the area, as wellas some of the surrounding upland benches. The area isringed by conifer forests. Substrate on the northern halfof the site is volcanic, but the southern part is probablyPaleocene deposits.

Key Environmental FactorsFlat topography, meandering rivers.

Land UseThe area is heavily used for fishing in the summer time.

Stillwater River-Flume Creek

DirectionsThe Stillwater River-Flume Creek site is located at thebase of the Beartooth Mountains is south centralMontana. From Nye, travel west and then southwest onState Route 419 for approximately 5.5 miles. Cross theStillwater River on a bridge across from the StillwaterMine tailing pond. Park on the east side of the river;permission is needed to park on Stillwater Mine property.Take the road that switchbacks up the mountain. At thefirst switchback, leave the road and continue along aninformal trail that parallels the Stillwater River. The site islocated approximately 0.5 mile upstream at theconfluence of the Stillwater River and Flume Creek.

DescriptionThe site is located on the floodplain of the StillwaterRiver, where it conflues with Flume Creek. At theconfluence, Flume Creek forms a long backwater slough;a Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) community occursalong the margin of the slough. The rest of the site ismesic and is subirrigated by groundwater. It is a mix ofaspen, willow, and cottonwood communities. A Salix

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boothii / Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow /bluejoint reedgrass) community occupies wetter sites.This community has clumped cover of willow, mostlySalix boothii and Salix bebbiana (Bebb willow), withCornus sericea (red-osier dogwood) andSymphoricarpos occidentalis (western snowberry) alsocommon. The herbaceous layer is divergent: underSalix cover, Calamagrostis canadensis dominates, whilein herbaceous-dominated openings, Agrostis stolonifera(redtop) is the dominant species. Drier sites (but stillseasonally saturated) along Flume Creek are character-ized by a Populus tremuloides / Cornus sericea (quakingaspen / red-osier dogwood) community. This communityhas a vigorous overstory of Populus tremuloides with adiverse shrub component. Symphoricarpos occidentalisand Cornus sericea are the most abundant species.Common herbaceous species are Equisetum arvense(field horsetail), Elymus glaucus (blue wild rye), Rud-beckia laciniata (cutleaf coneflower), and Heracleummaximum (cow-parsnip). A Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community occupies the driest, mostwell-drained portions of the site. The cottonwoods aremostly senescent, and sapling and pole-sized Pinuscontorta (lodgepole pine) and Picea engelmannii(Engelmann spruce) are well represented. The shrublayer is heavily browsed; many shrubs, especiallyCornus sericea, are of small stature and appear to besuppressed from browsing. The herbaceous layer has ahigh proportion of the exotics Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass) and Phleum pratense (common timothy).

Key Environmental FactorsFluvial dynamics associated with the Stillwater River andseasonal surface and groundwater inflow from FlumeCreek are the most important influences on the vegeta-tion. Signs of old beaver activity are apparent at the site.Browsing by wild ungulates and livestock is effectingthe structure of the Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community by suppressing palatablespecies, such as Cornus sericea (red-osier dogwood).

RarityNo tracked or special status plant or animal species wereobserved. A G3? community, Populus balsamifera ssp.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood), was documented in fair condition.

Land UseThe site is grazed by livestock; however, except for thePopulus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa / Cornus sericea(black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood) community, thesite appears lightly grazed. Otherwise the site appearsunmanaged.

ExoticsSeveral exotic species are abundant at the site. Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Phleum pratense(common timothy) are common on the driest sites withrocky, well-drained soil. Agrostis stolonifera (redtop) isabundant and Poa palustris (fowl bluegrass) is presentin herbaceous openings in the Salix boothii /Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow / bluejointreedgrass) community. Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle)is present at very low cover in the Populus tremuloides /Cornus sericea (quaking aspen / red-osier dogwood)community.

UplandsThe riparian zone has been heavily impacted in thisreach. Across the river and upstream of the site,livestock grazing appears to have greatly limited thedevelopment of riparian vegetation, although pockets ofgood condition cottonwood and willow communities arepresent. Downstream, the Stillwater Mine haschannelized the river and developed the floodplain.

Information NeedsWhat are the past and current grazing practices at thesite?

Management NeedsCirsium arvense (Canada thistle) is present at the site atvery low density, and it should be eradicated.

Sunlight Peak To Conical Peak

DirectionsThis is a high peaks region, centrally located in the CrazyMountains, on the Shields River - Sweetgrass Creekdivide. This site can be accessed either from the west byCotton Wood Creek Road to FS Road 6620, then FSTrails 168 and 197; or the east by the Big Timber Road toFS Road 197, and FS Trails 118 and 119. The site isapproximately 18 miles northeast of Clyde Park.

DescriptionThis site contains the high peaks on the Crazy Moun-tains and consists primarily of alpine with only a smallamount of subalpine habitat. Elevations range from 8200ft. (2500 m) to 10745 ft. (3276 m). Several lakes andwetlands occur within the site.

RarityThe high elevation forested region is habitat for Lynxcanadensis (Canada lynx). Two species of specialconcern, Papaver kluanensis (alpine poppy) and Carexnorvegica ssp. Inserrulata (toothed Scandinaviansedge) are found within this site; two others Agoserislackschewitzii, and Erigeron flabellifolius occur nearby.

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Other ValuesThis site has recreational values, particulary hiking andhunting.

Land UseThis site is a mixture (checkerboard pattern) of privateand public (Gallatin National Forest) lands.

Information NeedsAdditional surveys are needed to document the extent ofthe distribution of plant species of special concern. Also,surveys for animals of special concern, particularlyendemic insects, are needed

Swamp Lake

DirectionsNorthern Absaroka Mountains, Swamp Lake area alongHwy 296 (Chief Joseph Highway), south of the Clark’sFork of the Yellowstone River. Swamp Lake is a calcare-ous bog at the foot of the Cathedral Cliffs, a limestoneridge system just to the south of the wetlands.

DescriptionThe boundary includes Swamp Lake and surroundingfloating mats and marshlands on the north side of theCathedral Cliffs south of Wyoming Highway 296. TheSwamp Lake wetland is marl-rich from outwash ofcalcareous material from the Cathedral Cliffs. The entirearea is underlain by non-porous granite, accounting forthe accumulation of base-rich soils. The area is sur-rounded by white spruce forest.

Key Environmental FactorsRunoff and subsurface water flow off the calcareousslopes to the south maintain the wetlands.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith high snowfall, and warm summers with afternoonrainfall.

RarityBy the book, this is a B3 site, but that rating fails toreflect the importance of the site. It contains a far largerconcentration of S1and S2 elements in a small area thanany other site in Wyoming, and probably in the region.This includes two boreal species known only fromnorthern Canada and Alaska, and several other disjunctsknown from Canada and Alaska and a few other loca-tions in the continental U.S. Trumpeter swans (G4S2S3B)also are known to nest in the wetland. Measuring onlyabout 1.5 square miles in area, Swamp Lake contains thestates densest concentration of rare and uncommonplants, with over 25 such species documented here.Many of these plants are boreal disjunct species more

typical of wetlands in taiga forest. One species, Arctosta-phylos rubra, occurs here and no place else in the lower48 states. In all, 7 USFS Region 2 Sensitive plants occurhere, along with 13 other rare plants correctly tracked byWYNDD. Rare animals are also present, includingoccasional nesting populations of trumpeter swan,grizzly bear, and gray wolf. At least 8 wetland vegetationtypes have been identified (Fertig and Jones 1992).

Other ValuesWetland provides habitat for a variety of waterfowl, andthe site is very scenic, visible from the top of the ChiefJoseph Highway.

Land UseA paved highway traverses the north part of the site andcrosses the outflow from the wetland. The water level inthe wetland apparently was raised when the currenthighway crossing was built. Commercial trucks use thishighway and a spill of liquids on the highway could endup in the wetland. A dirt Forest Service road runs alongthe south side of the wetland (and forms the southernboundary of the Special Botanical Area); exotic plants(including Canada thistle, a noxious weed) are commonalong that road. Spruce seedlings and saplings havebeen cut from the muskeg on the south side of thewetland, apparently to improve waterfowl nestinghabitat, but this practice is forbidden by the currentmanagement prescription. The slopes south of thewetland have been logged in the past, both with smallclearcuts and with selective logging. Some salvagelogging has been done since the 1988 fires. Three debrisflows came off the slopes into the wetland in 1989 butlittle evidence of them existed by 1992 and they appar-ently had little effect on the wetland. A guest ranch at thewest end of the wetland takes horseback trail rides alongthe dirt road south of the wetland and an old two-trackroad along the north side of the wetland. Horses grazethe upland around the wetland but apparently do notenter the wetland.

ExoticsNumerous exotic forbs and grasses grow in the whitespruce forest along the dirt road on the south side of thewetland and in the logged area on the slopes above thewetland. These include Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle),a noxious weed. Control efforts should recognize thethreats of herbicides to the wetland vegetation.

Information NeedsForest Service managers need to collect information for ahydrological/ecological model of the wetland that allowsthem to assess effects of management on the slopesabove and threats from the highway. A monitoringprogram should be established to keep tract of hydro-logical factors (water levels, inflow, outflow), distribu-tions of wetland plant communities, and distribtions and

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abundances of rare plants; the effects of logging shouldbe considered. The surrounding watershed drains intothe swamp and influences the hydrology and quality ofthe site.

Swan Lake Flat

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau, Swan Lake, in an open, flat meadowalong the Loop Road. The site can be reached by drivingabout 4-5 miles south of Mammoth, or 16 miles north ofNorris Junction; both roads are closed in winter.

DescriptionThe site is a flat, open meadow bounded by rises to thenorth, east and south, and a dropoff to the Gardner Riverto the west. The slight rise in topography allows for driersoil, where sagebrush shrubland and conifer forest arefound. The meadow seems to be dominated by Carex,with some willows, grass, and forbs. Swan Lake lies inthe middle of the meadow, along with some other ponds.The site is drained by several small streams to the eastand west, and Glen Creek to the north.

Key Environmental FactorsHydrology and flat topography tends to keep the soilwet to moist and prevents the establishment of trees andshrubs in the meadow. The flat topography also contrib-utes to keeping the soil wet.

ClimateA continental, mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith a high amount of snow, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.

RarityThe occurrences in the area have a GRank of G4 or G5.There is an historic occurrence of Rana lutieventris,G3G4. The area supports some grazing by large ungu-lates.

Other ValuesAlthough there is a great deal of human use in thesummer associated with the Mammoth Visitor Center, it isstill possible to see a wildife at the area, and most of thearea is fairly pristine.

Land UseThe Loop Road runs through the middle of the Flats, andthere is a parking turnout at Swan Lake. Some trails usedmainly by fishermen and birders ring the Flats.

ExoticsUnknown, needs to be assessed.

Information NeedsA thorough survey of the site would help define theboundaries and the occurrences to be found.

Tom Miner Basin / Rock Creek

DirectionsThe Tom Miner drainage is approximately 13 milesnorthwest of Gardiner, MT. The drainage is accessed viathe Tom Miner Road, 17 miles north of Gardiner, off ofHighway 89. Rock Creek is the next drainage to the northof Tom Miner Basin.

DescriptionOn the east side of the Gallatin Range, the Tom Minerand Rock Creek watersheds drain an area from SheepMountain and Bighorn Peak north to Fortress Mountainand flow northeast to the Yellowstone River. Elevationsrange from 4920 ft (1550 m) at the confluence with theYellowstone River to 10295 ft (3138 m) at Ramshorn Peak.

Key Environmental FactorsRain shadow-effects are important in maintaining lowsnow cover and increasing the availability of forage forungulates. Also, southern exposures on the north side ofTom Miner Basin are major determinants of winter rangeon the northern side of the drainage. Fire is likely to bean important factor in maintaining open parks andmeadow / forest ecotones.

Rarity

Other ValuesThis area provides substantial recreation opportunitiesand has been used for education and research purposes.

Land UseCurrent land use includes logging, subdivision forhuman dwellings, livestock grazing and various recre-ational uses.

Information NeedsAn evaluation of plant communities and surveys forplants and animals of special concern are needed.Evaluations of stream / riparian habitat condition arelacking.

Twin Lakes / Montana

DirectionsTwin Lakes are located in the Crazy Mountains in southcentral Montana. From Big Timber, travel north on U.S.Highway 191 for approximately 10 miles. Turn left ontoCounty Road 25 and travel west for approximately 13

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miles to Half Moon Campground. Hike west on ForestTrail 119 for approximately 3.5 miles to Upper Twin Lake.

DescriptionTwin Lakes occur near timberline in a glacially formedcirque basin at the headwaters of Big Timber Creek.Wetland communities are lacustrine fringe and slopewetlands. A Salix planifolia / Carex scopulorum(planeleaf willow / Holm’s Rocky Mountain sedge)community fringes the upper (western) edge of UpperTwin Lake. This community grades into an early-seralAbies lasiocarpa / Streptopus amplexifolius (subalpinefir / clasping twisted stalk) community, which occurs on asubirrigated toe slope. A mid-seral stand of this commu-nity, with a Picea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce)-dominated overstory, occurs in between the two lakes.Lower Twin Lake has a very narrow lacustrine fringe withCarex scopulorum and Equisetum arvense (fieldhorsetail) forming the dominant cover. Most of thewetlands along Lower Twin Lake are subirrigated slopewetlands with some peat development that has numer-ous seeps and springs. A Carex scopulorum communityoccupies most of these wetlands. This well vegetatedcommunity has high cover of Carex scopulorum, Carexillota (sheep sedge), and Pedicularis groendlandica(elephant head), and also has abundant brown mosscover, including Philonotis fontana and Drepanocladusaduncus. Sphagnum moss, including Sphagnumsquarrosum, is locally common around seep margins.This community has numerous linear clumps and breaksof Picea engelmannii and Abies lasiocarpa. Uplandsare predominantly an Abies lasiocarpa / Vacciniumscoparium (subalpine fir / grouse whortleberry) habitattype.

Key Environmental FactorsThis is a subalpine site greatly influenced by glacialtopography. Hydrological regime is driven bysubirrigation from snowmelt.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species or rare commu-nity types were observed.

Other ValuesRana pretiosa (spotted frog) was observed in smallponds in slope wetlands along Lower Twin Lake.

Land UseA popular recreation trail skirts the upper boundary ofthe site. Campsites and informal trails are located in thespruce-fir forest between the lakes and at the head ofUpper Twin Lake. Evidence of cattle use was observedin some communities.

ExoticsThe only exotic noted was Trifolium repens (whiteclover). This species was localized and present at lowcover. Its presence may be explained by use of packanimals.

UplandsThe setting is pristine. The area receives some livestockgrazing, but it appears to be light. This is a popularrecreational area and receives heavy use. Land owner-ship is a checkerboard pattern of National Forest andprivate land.

Twin Lakes / Wyoming

DirectionsThe site is located in the southeastern BeartoothMountains approximately 36 air miles northwest of Cody,Wyoming. From Cody, proceed north on Wyoming StateHighway 120 about 16 miles to State Highway 296 (ChiefJoseph Scenic Highway). Travel west on Highway 296for 46 miles to the junction with highway 212 (BeartoothHighway). Proceed east on US 212 for about 23 miles.The Beartooth Highway is only open during the summerand early fall (typically from 1 June-15 October) and maybe closed at night during inclement weather. Thesouthern boundary of the site can be accessed from thehighway.

DescriptionThe central feature of the site is the Twin Lakes Basin, aglacial cirque near the summit of the Beartooth Plateau.Headwalls of the cirque are 600-700 feet high on theeastern and southern rim and are composed of steep,loosely consolidated gneissic talus and boulders. Thebottom of the basin contains over 14 major lakes andponds that cover approximately 82 acres of surface area.Numerous small snow melt streams connect these lakesto form the headwaters of the Chain Creek drainage. Theplateau on the west side of Twin Lakes Basin slopesgently to the north. This area contains numerousexamples of soil-surface features associated withcryopedogenic processes (Johnson & Billings 1962).Among the prominent features are stone circles andstripes, frost hummocks, frost boils, and solifluctionterraces. The site contains excellent examples of Geumrossii and Deschampsia cespitosa alpine turf andmeadow community types as well as several other well-represented alpine community types (Abies lasiocarpa /Vaccinum scoparium (Pinus albicaulis phase), Salixplanifolia / Carex scopulorum, Juncus drummondii /Antennaria lanata, and Carex elynoides).

Key Environmental FactorsHydrology, altitude.

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ClimateA continental mountain climate prevails - cold winterswith a large amount of snow, and warm summers withafternoon rainfall.

RarityRanking was based on the presence of 29 state rarespecies, including four that are listed as Sensitive byRegion 2 of the US Forest Service: Dwarf shrew, NorthAmerican lynx, Pink agoseris, and Hall’s fescue. Al-though most of these species are globally common, theaggregation of so many is remarkable. In addition, thesite contains occurrences of 8 species that are no longertracked by WYNDD but are still uncommon. This area isrich in disjunct plant species that have arctic and borealaffinities, as well as providing habitat for animals that areuncommon in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Two Moon Park

DirectionsTwo Moon Park is located along the Yellowstone River inthe unglaciated High Plains. This site is located withinthe city of Billings.

DescriptionTwo Moon Park is located in the floodplain of theYellowstone River. This site occurs between low bluffsthat overlook the river and the river’s active channel.The site is a mosaic of communities that occur ondifferent fluvial landforms. On recently created mid-channel bars, the vegetation is very weedy and isdominated by Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge) and Salixexigua (sandbar willow). Salix exigua and the exoticPhalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) dominaterecently deposited sidebars and sloughs, with wettermicrosites occupied by monospecific stands of Phalarisarundinacea. Higher portions of the floodplain are amosaic of Populus deltoides / Symphoricarposoccidentalis (plains cottonwood / western snowberry)woodland and herbaceous openings. The cottonwoodstands are open woodlands with a locally abundant mid-canopy of the exotic Elaeagnus angustifolia (Russianolive). The herbaceous layer is dominated by the exoticgrasses Poa compressa (Canada bluegrass), Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass), and Bromus inermis(smooth brome). The herbaceous openings are alsolargely dominated by the same exotic grasses; however,patches of Pascopyrum smithii (western wheatgrass)still dominate some low-lying swales, although some ofthese are being invaded by Bromus tectorum(cheatgrass). Seepy, groundwater-receiving sites at thebase of the bluffs are dominated by Typha latifolia(broadleaf cattail) and Phalaris arundinacea. A smallstand of Salix amygdaloides (peachleaf willow) occursalong one of the sloughs.

Key Environmental FactorsFlooding, and the associated erosion, deposition, andchannel migration, is the dominant process influencingvegetation. Vegetation is also influenced bymicrotopography and by seepage from the toe slope ofthe bluffs.

RarityNo special status plants or animals were observed. OneG2G3 community, Populus deltoides / Symphoricarposoccidentalis (plains cottonwood / western snowberry),and one G3 community, Salix amygdaloides (peachleafwillow), were documented in fair to poor condition.

Other ValuesThis site offers habitat for many Neotropical migrantbirds and other wildlife. This site is locally importantbecause of habitat fragmentation in the greater Billingsmetropolitan area.

Land UseThe site is a city park and receives heavy recreationaluse. There are several trails and old roads through thepark, and a portion of the park was mined for gravel.Most of the use appears to be limited to the trails.

ExoticsExotic grasses dominate the ground layer of this site,especially Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) andBromus inermis (smooth brome). Phalaris arundinacea(reed canarygrass) dominates many mesic portions of thesite, such as sloughs. Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass)currently occurs as several small monospecific stands,but it is likely to spread. Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge)is scattered in small patches except on mid-channel barswhere it is the dominant species. Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue) and Cirsium arvense(Canada thistle) are common throughout the site.Elaeagnus angustifolia (Russian olive) is well estab-lished in the cottonwood stands. It is likely that as thecottonwoods die (and many of the cottonwoods aremature or senescent), these stands will convert to anElaeagnus angustifolia-dominated community. Thisconversion will have unknown habitat and biodiversityimplications.

UplandsThe site occurs as an isolated fragment of riparianvegetation within the urban/industrial context of Billings.

Information NeedsWhat was the history of gravel extraction and grazing atthe site?

Management NeedsAlthough it is unlikely that native species will reclaim theherbaceous layer, the more aggressive exotic species

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such as Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge) and Bromustectorum (cheatgrass), should be controlled.

Upper And Lower Deer Creeks

DirectionsThe Upper and Lower Deer Creek Site is located on thenorth edge of the Beartooth Mountains, 10 milessoutheast of Big Timber, MT. The site is accessed fromthe Greycliff exit off of Interstate 90 (ca. 10 miles east ofBig Timber). Follow the Frontage Road west approxi-mately 1.5 miles, then turn south onto the Deer CreekRoad, which becomes Forest Service Road 482. The siteis approximately 8.5 miles south of the Frontage Road.

DescriptionThis site consists of the upper portions of the Upper andLower Deer Creek drainages, which contain populationsof genetically pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Specifi-cally these drainages are Upper Deer Creek, from theWest Fork of Upper Deer Creek to the Headwaters, whichhas moderate habitat value; and Lower Deer Creek fromPlacer Creek to the headwaters, which has substantialhabitat value. Elevations range from 4920 ft. (1500 m) to8600 ft. (2622 m).

RarityThe populations of genetically-pure Yellowstonecutthroat trout make the Upper and Lower Deer Creeks asignificant site. Sorex preblei (prebles shrew) has beenrecorded from this site.

ExoticsSalmo trutta (brown trout) and Salvelinus fontinalis(brook trout) occur in some of the drainages. Althoughthese species compete with cutthroat trout, they arereproductively isolated from cutthroat trout. We have noinformation regarding the distribution or extent of exoticplant infestations.

Information NeedsInformation on the occurrence and distribution ofbarriers to fish movement is needed. Also, surveys forplants, animals and vegetation communities of specialconcern are needed.

Upper Hellroaring Creek / SloughCreek

DirectionsThe Hellroaring and Slough Creek site is located north ofthe Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Parkbetween the Hellroaring Creek and Slough Creekdrainages. It includes portions of Yellowstone NationalPark and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. The site is

accessed from the Cooke City Highway in YellowstoneNational Park, approximately 12 miles northeast ofGardiner, MT.

DescriptionThe Hellroaring and Slough Creek site is within the“Northern Range” of Yellowstone National Park, includ-ing portions of the Yellowstone River and the LamarRiver Valleys. Elevations range from 5900 ft (1800 m) to9800 ft (3000 m). Exemplary willow communities are foundalong Slough Creek on the Gallatin National Forest andYellowstone National Park. Extensive wetland complexesare found in the upper portions of the Hellroaring Creek,Buffalo Creek, and Slough Creek drainage’s. Histrionicushistrionicus (harlequin Duck) are found on HellroaringCreek; Ranunculus jovis (Jove’s buttercup) has beendocumented on the Hellroaring Creek-Buffalo Creekdivide.

Key Environmental FactorsFire is an integral component of the forest and grasslandcommunities of this region. Part of this area was burnedduring the 1988 fires. Spring flooding is an importantcomponent of the riparian communities. Rain-shadoweffects are important in determining the extent ofungulate winter range. Ungulate grazing is an importantfactor in shaping vegetation communities and the extentof ungulate grazing is heavily dependent upon snowdepth, which varies annually.

RarityThis area has substantial value as winter range forCervus elaphus (elk), Alces alces (moose), and Bosbison (bison). Ursus arctos horribilis (grizzly bear) usethis area extensively and an experimental population ofCanis lupus (grey wolf) have been reintroduced into thissite. Lynx canadensis (Canada lynx) may also occur here.Genetically pure Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri(Yellowstone cutthroat trout) occur in Slough Creek,although O. mykiss (rainbow trout) occur in the lowerreaches of Slough Creek in Yellowstone National Park.

Other ValuesThis site receives considerable recreational use, primarilyin the form of wildlife viewing, hiking, outfitting, fishingand hunting. Numerous research projects have includedall or part of this area.

ExoticsThe extent of exotic plant infestations within this area isunknown. Exotic Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow trout)are found in the Yellowstone River and lower SloughCreek. Rainbow trout pose a threat to populations ofgenetically pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Increasedrecreational use of this area could have adverse impactsto the areas natural resources.

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Information NeedsExtensive wetlands surveys for rare plants, vegetationcommunities,and animals are needed. In addition,information on the occurrence and extent of exotic plantinfestations and the extent and pattern of grizzly bear useof this area would be beneficial.

Upper Shields River

DirectionsThe site is located in the upper Shields River drainage.Follow the Shields River Road north from Wilsallapproximately 13 miles, then take Forest Service Road844 northeast. The site boundary is encountered nearthe beginning of FS Road 844.

DescriptionThis site encompasses the watershed of the upperShields River and its tributaries where populations ofgenetically pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout are found.The Shields River is nested in a moderately widemontane valley bottom on the west slope of the CrazyMountains. Forested slopes are primarly Pinus contorta.The floodplain and floodplain terrace is dominated byPicea englemanii. Populus balsamifera ssp.Brichocarpa occur infrequently and Salixdrummondiana shrub communities occur in places alongthe current and old river channgels. This drainage alsocontains moose winter range. Elevations range from 5740ft. (1750 m) to 10086 ft. (3075 m). This watershed hasrecreational values and economic values from timber andlivestock grazing.

Key Environmental FactorsThe floodplain terrace is undulated withmicrotopography created by wind throw, old channels,springs and seeps.

RarityThe significance of this area is due to the occurrence ofgenetically-pure Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the upperShields River and its tributaries.

ExoticsA small amount of Carduus nutans (musk thistle) ispresent along the floodplain terrace. Oncorhynchusmykiss (Rainbow trout) may also occur in the lowerShields River inside the site boundary.

UplandsThe upper watershed exhibits extensive silvilculturetreatments including clearcuts.

Information NeedsAn evaluation of the presence / absence of barriers to

fish movements is needed. Also, surveys of animals,plants, and vegetation communities are needed.

Management NeedsThe Carduus nutans (musk thistle) found on thefloodplain terrace should be hand removed.

Water Birch

DirectionsWater Birch is located in the foothills and high plains ofsouth central Montana. From Red Lodge, travel north onU.S. Highway 212 for approximately 8.5 miles. Access toWater Birch is signed.

DescriptionWater Birch is located in the floodplain of Rock Creek. Inthis reach, Rock Creek is braided with two or threeprimary channels. Channel banks are eroded and thesystem appears to be downcutting. Themicrotopography of the floodplain is complex with manyswales and old channels. This microtopographic relief,augmented by Castor canadensis (beaver) activity, hascreated a mosaic of interspersed shrub and cottonwoodcommunities that occupy most of the floodplain. Swalesand old channels are occupied by an Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis (mountain alder / bluejointreedgrass) community, which also includes dense standsof Carex utriculata (beaked sedge) around wet marginsof beaver ponds. Interspersed with these mesic areas isa Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa / Cornussericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood)community. This community includes small inclusions ofsapling and pole-sized Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa regenerating on point and side bars. Beaverhave caused substantial mortality among these saplings.This site also supports a small Salix bebbiana (Bebbwillow) community that is seasonally saturated fromseepage from an irrigation ditch. Higher portions of thefloodplain support Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Symphoricarpos occidentalis (blackcottonwood / western snowberry) and Populustremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen/ bluejoint reedgrass) communities. These communitiesare probably above the flood prone zone (twice bankfullstage height) and so may be less influenced by riverinegroundwater. Moisture at these sites is probably moreinfluenced by subirrigation from a toe slope that forms atopographic break between the active floodplain and anolder glacial outwash terrace.

Key Environmental FactorsFluvial processes, such as seasonal flooding and highgroundwater, and the associated channel migration andmicrotopography are the primary influences on vegeta-tion structure and composition at this site. Past and

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current beaver activity is also very important and hascreated ponded areas that support mesic sedge and aldercommunities.

RarityNo special status plant and animal species were ob-served. Four G3 plant associations were documented infair to very good condition: Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood), Populus tremuloides / Calamagrostis(quaking aspen / bluejoint reedgrass), Alnus incana /Calamagrostis canadensis (mountain alder / bluejointreedgrass), and Salix bebbiana (Bebb willow).


Land UseWater Birch is a dedicated recreation site, and receivescamping and fishing use. However, except for theparking/camping area, the site appears to be littleaffected from use.

ExoticsPoa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) is abundantthroughout the site, especially on drier locations. Otherexotic species were present at low cover and includeTaraxacum officinale (common dandelion),Leucanthemum vulgare (ox-eye daisy), Centaureamaculosa (spotted knapweed), Cirsium spp. (thistle),Arctium spp. (burdock), Cynoglossum officinale(hound’s tongue), and Dactylis glomerata (orchardgrass). Centaurea maculosa has been spot sprayedaround the parking/camping area.

UplandsNative vegetation is mostly intact along the ripariancorridor upstream and downstream from the site.Livestock grazes the adjacent upstream parcel. Adjacentland use is pasture and ranchettes.

Management NeedsMore aggressive control of noxious weeds is needed.

West Boulder Meadows

DirectionsThe West Boulder Meadows site is located in thefoothills of the Absaroka Range in south central Mon-

tana. From McLeod, travel south on State Route 298 for0.5 mile. Turn onto the Wet Boulder Road and travelwest-southwest for approximately 12 miles to the WestBoulder trailhead. Travel south on Forest Trail 41 for 3miles to the West Boulder Meadows.

DescriptionThis site is a large complex of riverine-associatedwetlands along an unconfined reach of the West Boulderwithin a glaciated valley. Confined river reaches delimitthe site both upstream and downstream. In the uncon-fined reach, the West Boulder is low gradient andmeandering. Plant associations are distributed alongtopographic, soil moisture, and flood disturbancegradient. Communities range from flooded and saturatedsedge and willow communities to wet spruce forests.Along the active channel, overbank deposition hascreated natural levees. These levees, which are higherand drier than the adjacent floodplain, are dominated byexotic species, including Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), Phleum pratense (common timothy), andTaraxacum officinale (common dandelion). The nativeJuncus balticus (Baltic rush) is also well represented.The lower floodplain next to these levees is semi-permanently flooded by groundwater from the WestBoulder, and is dominated by a near-monospecific standof Carex utriculata (beaked sedge). A Salix boothii /Carex utriculata (Booth’s willow / beaked sedge)community occupies slightly higher sites that areseasonally saturated by groundwater. This community ischaracterized by a mosaic of clumped shrubs, dominatedby Salix boothii and Salix drummondiana, interspersedwith herbaceous openings dissected by many smallchannels. Carex utriculata is the dominant herbaceousspecies, especially in wetter microsites. Calamagrostiscanadensis (bluejoint reedgrass) may be locally domi-nant in drier areas, especially where shaded by willows.Exotics, such as Poa pratensis and Agrostis stolonifera(redtop), are also common in these drier microsites.Where this community occurs near to Picea (spruce)forest, Picea engelmannii (Engelmann spruce) andCornus sericea (red-osier dogwood) are colonizinghigher microsites.

The driest locations at this site are occupied by Piceaengelmannii / Cornus sericea. An open Piceaengelmannii canopy with a patchy shrub layer of Alnusincana (mountain alder) and Cornus sericea character-izes this community. The herbaceous layer has a highcover of Phleum pratense (common timothy), with lesseramounts of Equisetum arvense (field horsetail), Rud-beckia laciniata (cutleaf coneflower), and Carexmicroptera (small-wing sedge). Moss cover, mostlyClimaceum dendroides, is locally very high. Theadjacent uplands are dominated by Picea engelmannii /Maianthemum stellatum (Engelmann spruce / starry

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false Solomon’s seal) and Picea engelmannii / Linnaeaborealis (Engelmann spruce / twinflower) communities.

Key Environmental FactorsThe unconfined river reach has allowed for floodplaindevelopment. Seasonal flooding and groundwatersaturation maintains the plant communities at the site.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.One G3 community, Picea engelmannii / Cornus sericea(Engelmann spruce / red-osier dogwood), was docu-mented in good to fair condition.

Land UseThe site is within the Absaroka-Beartooth WildernessArea. The meadows receive moderate recreationalpressure, primarily from fishermen. No permanent trialswere observed in the wet meadow. Site does not appearto be currently grazed, although one cowpie wasobserved.

ExoticsPasture grasses, such as Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass) and Phleum pratense (common timothy),dominate much of the drier portions of the site. Naturallevees along the Boulder River are completely dominatedby these grasses and Juncus balticus (Baltic rush).Phleum pratense is also the dominant herbaceousspecies in the wetland Picea (spruce) community.

UplandsThis site occurs in the Absaroka-Beartooth WildernessArea. Similar wetland complexes occur along the WestBoulder as geomorphology allows.

Information NeedsWhat is grazing history of the site? Is the dominance ofexotic pasture grasses a legacy of past grazing? Whatrole does imported horse feed play?

West Fork Rock Creek Fens

DirectionsWest Fork Rock Creek Fens is located in the BeartoothMountains of south central Montana. From Red Lodge,travel 10.25 miles on Forest Service Route 71 to WestFork Rock Creek Fens.

DescriptionThis site consists of three small slope fens that occur atthe toe of a slope along West Fork Rock Creek in theBeartooth Mountains. The water source for the fens isapparently groundwater discharge from the toe of theadjacent slopes. There are no surface outlets, and water

apparently discharges to the creek as groundwater. Theuplands are dominated by Abies lasiocarpa (subalpinefir) and Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine) forests whereinthe dominant undergrowth species are Vacciniumglobulare (globe huckleberry) and Vaccinium scoparium(grouse whortleberry). Each of these fens is dominatedby Salix planifolia / Carex aquatilis (planeleaf willow /water sedge) and Salix planifolia / Carex utriculata(planeleaf willow / beaked sedge) communities. Othercommon species at these fens are Betula glandulosa(bog birch), Dasiphora fruticosa sap. floribunda(shrubby cinquefoil), Carex utriculata (beaked sedge),Viola macloskeyi (small white violet), and Sphagnumspp. (mosses of poor fens and bogs). A small forestedspruce wetland, dominated by a Picea engelmannii /Calamagrostis canadensis (Engelmann spruce /bluejoint reedgrass) plant association, occurs at one ofthe fens; Sphagnum sap. appear to be invading thismoist forest from the adjacent fen.

Key Environmental FactorsThese wetlands are maintained by groundwater rechargefrom the adjacent uplands.

RarityPaludella sqaurrosa, an S1 G3G4 moss, is a componentof the Sphagnum moss layer. An excellent example of theG3 community Salix planifolia / Carex utriculata(planeleaf willow / beaked sedge) was documented.

Other ValuesThe undergrowth of the willow community is extremelydiverse, especially in the moss layer. One of the fens hasat least 60% cover of Sphagnum species with limitedbrown moss development, another has both mossesstrongly represented and yet another has reduced mosscover but high cover values for Carex scopulorum(Holm’s Rocky Mountain sedge). Within a limited areathe varieties of expression of one plant association arewell displayed.

Land UseNo land use was apparent.

ExoticsNo exotic plants or animals were documented from thissite.

UplandsA well-used trail and trailhead is adjacent to thewesternmost fen, and a road is adjacent to the other twofens in this complex.

Information NeedsIs the road influencing the hydrology of these fens?

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Management NeedsNo management considerations were identified at theinitial inventory.

West Rosebud Complex

DirectionsNote: a portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is required to access thatsection. The West Rosebud Complex is located in thefoothills of the Beartooth Mountains in south centralMontana. From Fishtail, travel west and south on StateHighway 419 for approximately 1 mile to the intersectionwith State Highway 425. Turn onto State Highway 425and travel south for approximately 6 miles to the intersec-tion with Forest Route 2072. Travel south on this roadfor approximately 8 miles and park at the Pine GroveCampground.

DescriptionWest Rosebud Complex occurs in the floodplain of WestRosebud Creek and on adjacent toe slopes. Wetland andriparian vegetation communities occur adjacent to theactive channel, along overflow channels and swalesmodified by past and current beaver activity, and on toeslope swales modified by historic beaver dams. Stream-side communities include Picea engelmannii /Calamagrostis canadensis (Engelmann spruce /bluejoint reedgrass), Salix geyeriana / Carex utriculata(Geyer’s willow / beaked sedge), and what was histori-cally probably Salix geyeriana / Calamagrostiscanadensis. This latter community is now dominated byPoa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Phleumpratense (common timothy), due to the competitivedominance of these exotic species and grazing pressure.

Historic and current beaver dams have significantlyaltered portions of this site and provide habitat for manyof the plant associations that are present. On thefloodplain, beaver activity has raised water tables inswales and old channels, which support a Salix boothii /Carex utriculata (Booth’s willow / beaked sedge)community. This community is interspersed with Salixboothii / Calamagrostis canadensis, which occurs onhigher floodplain deposits. Pinus contorta (lodgepolepine) is well represented in this latter community. A smallPopulus tremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis(quaking aspen / bluejoint reedgrass) occurs in draws onthe lower hill slope and on seepy areas on the toe slope.On slope wetlands at the bottom of the adjacent toeslopes, historic beaver dams have created a series ofterraces. The ponds have completely silted in and damsare visible only as well-vegetated, shrub-dominatedberms. These areas now support Salix geyeriana /Calamagrostis canadensis and Salix geyeriana / Carexutriculata communities with wetter inclusions of Carex

utriculata. There is also a small community dominatedby Salix planifolia (planeleaf willow) and Carexutriculata with a continuous cover of Sphagnum teres.

Key Environmental FactorsSite hydrology (surface and groundwater from WestRosebud Creek and groundwater from adjacent toeslopes) and extensive modification by beaver are theprimary factors supporting and maintaining the site’svegetation communities.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.One G3 community, Populus tremuloides /Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen / bluejointreedgrass) was documented in fair condition. This sitealso contained a Salix planifolia / Carex utriculata(planeleaf willow / beaked sedge) with abundant cover ofSphagnum teres.

Other ValuesSome of the beaver ponds support Rana pretiosa(spotted frog) populations and a breeding pair of Gruscanadensis (sandhill crane) was observed at the site.

Land UseLivestock actively grazes the portion of the site onprivate land. Drier riparian communities, such as Salixgeyeriana / Calamagrostis canadensis (Geyer’s willow /bluejoint reedgrass) have been altered by historicgrazing and are now a grazing disclimax dominated bypasture grasses in the herbaceous layer. The northeast-ern portion of the site on public land also receives somecurrent livestock use (an electric fence runs perpendicu-lar to the channel just upstream from the Pine GroveCampground). Livestock use does not appear to behigh. Wild ungulate browse appears to be moderate.Alces alces (moose) browse is locally heavy. The site isadjacent to a developed campground. Hiking, fishing,and hunting use has created some informal trails.

ExoticsPhleum pratense (common timothy) and Poa pratensis(Kentucky bluegrass) dominate drier portions of thefloodplain and lower toe slope. Poa palustris (fowlbluegrass), Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle), Phalarisarundinacea (reed canarygrass), Trifolium repens (whiteclover), Taraxacum officinale (common dandelion), andAgrostis stolonifera (redtop) are present at low cover.The portion of the site on private land has higher coverof exotic species.

UplandsHistoric grazing has altered some upland communities,especially on the private land portion of the site.Otherwise the structure and composition of offsite

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vegetation communities reflects natural processes. Thehydrologic regime is largely intact, except for a smallhydroelectric dam upstream.

Information NeedsWhat is the past grazing history? Have there beenrecent changes in the course of the active channel?What effect has Mystic Lake dam had on the site’shydrology?

Management NeedsA management plan to control the noxious weeds at thesite should be developed.

West Rosebud Moraine

DirectionsNote: This site is located on private land, and landownerpermission is needed to access this site. The WestRosebud Moraine site is located in the foothills of theBeartooth Mountains in south central Montana. FromFishtail, travel west and south on State Highway 419 forapproximately 1 mile to the intersection with StateHighway 425. Turn onto State Highway 425 and travelsouth for approximately 6 miles to the intersection withForest Route 2072. Travel south on this road forapproximately 6.75 miles until the road skirts the eastshore of Reeves Lake. The rest of the site lies east ofWest Rosebud Creek. A gravel road that turns off to thewest approximately 0.25 mile past Reeves Lake canaccess this portion.

DescriptionThis site encompasses a series of kettle potholes in arecessional moraine along West Rosebud Creek. Thesewetlands are isolated and occur as small to medium-sizedglacially formed depressions. The water source isgroundwater, and all these wetlands lack an outlet,except for Reeves Lake, which is culverted. Thesepotholes are dominated by Carex utriculata (beakedsedge) communities or have an open water componentwith a Carex utriculata fringe. Mesic toe slopesadjacent to these depressions are subirrigated and insome places are dominated by willow or Populustremuloides / Calamagrostis canadensis (quaking aspen/ bluejoint reedgrass) communities. Higher, slightly lessmesic portions of the toe slope are occupied by Populustremuloides with a Phleum pratense (common timothy)-dominated ground layer. This community was onceprobably Populus tremuloides / Calamagrostiscanadensis and now represents a grazing disclimax. Oneof the larger potholes has been ditched, although itsfringes are still dominated by a wet and robust Carexutriculata community.

Reeves Lake is the largest and most diverse of thesedepressional wetlands. The lake has a large open watercomponent that supports a Nuphar lutea sap.polysepala (yellow pond-lily) aquatic community. AnEleocharis palustris (common spikerush) communityoccurs on intermittently exposed mudflats on the northend of the lake. A Carex utriculata community occurson slightly higher substrate. This community is variable,with lower, wetter portions dominated by a near-mono-specific stand of Carex utriculata with some patches ofGlyceria grandis (American mannagrass). On driersubstrate, Carex utriculata still dominates but speciesrichness increases with Agrostis scabra (ticklegrass),Galium trifidum (small bedstraw), Rorippa palustris(marsh yellowcress), Potentilla rivalis (river cinquefoil),Scutellaria galericulata (marsh skullcap), and otherspecies present. The exotics Phleum pratense andCirsium vulgare (bull thistle) are also present. A Salixbebbiana (Bebb willow) community occurs on higherdeposits that still have saturated soil conditions. Salixbebbiana and Alnus incana (mountain alder) occupy anopen overstory with Dasiphora fruticosa sap. flori-bunda (shrubby cinquefoil) present as a low shrub.Carex utriculata and Carex aquatilis (water sedge)dominate the ground layer with Calamagrostiscanadensis becoming important on drier portions of thecommunity. On higher topographic positions, thiscommunity grades into a Salix boothii / Calamagrostiscanadensis (Booth’s willow / bluejoint reedgrass)community. Shrub cover is clumped, with Salix boothii,Salix bebbiana, and Betula occidentalis (water birch) allpresent at low cover and Alnus incana having thegreatest individual cover. Calamagrostis canadensisdominates the ground layer with Bromus ciliatus(fringed brome) and Heracleum maximum (cow-parsnip)present at low cover. Uplands are dominated by Phleumpratense or Populus tremuloides / Phleum pratense.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal groundwater infiltration is the primary influencein maintaining these systems.

RarityNo species of special concern were observed. Smallexamples of Salix bebbiana (Bebb willow), G3, and Salixboothii / Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow /bluejoint reedgrass), G3G4Q, were inventoried.

Other ValuesThese depressions, especially Reeves Lake, providebreeding habitat for numerous bird species, includingAythya affinis (lesser scaup), Branta canadensis(Canada goose), Fuliea americana (American coot),Agelaius phoeniceus (red-winged blackbird), andPorzana carolina (sora). A breeding pair of Gruscanadensis (sandhill crane) with young was alsoobserved at this site.

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Land UseGrazing is the primary land use. Electric fencing sug-gests that cattle are actively moved from area to area.Although this site is not currently overgrazed, its longhistory of grazing (and perhaps past overgrazing) hasaltered the composition of many of the drier wetland andwetland-upland transitional communities. Pasturegrasses, especially Phleum pratense (common timothy),now dominate these communities, and the historic nativeherbaceous dominants can only be guessed at.

ExoticsPhleum pratense (common timothy) and Poa pratensis(Kentucky bluegrass) are the dominant upland grasses.Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle) and Phleum pratense arepresent with low abundance in some of the wetlandareas.

UplandsThe uplands are grazed but are largely intact.

Management NeedsThe present active grazing management should becontinued.

West Rosebud Trailhead

DirectionsThe West Rosebud Trailhead site is located in thefoothills of the Beartooth Mountains in south centralMontana. From Fishtail, travel west and south on StateHighway 419 for approximately 1 mile to the intersectionwith State Highway 425. Turn onto State Highway 425and travel south for approximately 6 miles to the intersec-tion with Forest Route 2072. Travel south on this roadfor approximately 12.5 miles. The site is located justbefore the Mystic Lake trailhead.

DescriptionThis site occurs in the glaciated valley bottom of WestRosebud Creek. Fluvial processes and old beaver damshave created a diverse microtopography with numerousswales, low areas, and channels. Vegetation is a mosaicof intermixed willow and sedge communities distributedalong a microtopographic gradient. Old beaver dams arewell vegetated with willow and sedge. The wettest sites,which occupy approximately 20 percent of the site, areopen water. A semipermanently flooded Carexutriculata (beaked sedge) community fringes this openwater and also occurs on wetter microsites throughoutthe site. This community is dominated by Carexutriculata but has inclusions of Carex buxbaumii(Buxbaum’s sedge) and Deschampsia caespitosa (tuftedhairgrass) on drier microsites. Higher sites are occupiedby a Salix boothii / Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’swillow / bluejoint reedgrass) community. This commu-

nity is seasonally flooded to saturated and is character-ized by high cover of Salix boothii and Salix planifolia(planeleaf willow). Calamagrostis canadensis is thedominant herbaceous species, but the exotic Poapalustris is widespread. Exotic pasture grasses arecommon on the highest microsites. An undescribedcommunity, dominated by Salix boothii and Carexbuxbaumii, is transitional between the Carex utriculataand Salix boothii communities. These communitieshave indistinct boundaries, and there is significantintergradation and many small inclusions depending onmicrotopography. Uplands are Pinus contorta (lodge-pole pine) forest.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding, floodplain development, and beaveractivity are all critical in maintaining this site. No currentbeaver activity was observed at this site. Old beaverdams add to the diversity of this site by creating manywet and saturated microsites. Although these dams arewell vegetated by willow and sedge, small headcuts arepresent in many places from overtop flow and subse-quent erosion. Failure of these dams will alter thestructure and composition of this site by increasing theextent of willow communities.

RarityNo special status plant or animal species were observed.A fair to good example of a G3G4Q community, Salixboothii / Calamagrostis canadensis (Booth’s willow /bluejoint reedgrass) was inventoried.

Land UseThe site receives moderate recreational use by fishermen.A few recreational trails are present, especially along thechannel of West Rosebud Creek. Willow communitiesare moderately grazed, probably by deer, elk, and moose.

ExoticsExotic grasses are well established on drier portions ofthis site. Species include Poa pratensis (Kentuckybluegrass), Phleum pratense (common timothy), andBromus inermis (smooth brome). Wetter sites are largelyfree from exotics, except for Poa palustris (fowl blue-grass), which is present in wetter willow communities.

UplandsThe surrounding uplands are largely undisturbed.Mystic Lake, which is upstream of the site, is dammed forhydropower. The penstocks return their flow to thestream immediately upstream of the site. This undoubt-edly has an effect on the site’s hydrology.

Information NeedsWhat effect has Mystic Lake dam and associatedpenstocks had on the hydrology of the site? Is the large

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open water area a product of riverine processes or is it adepressional glacial feature?

West Thumb

DirectionsThe West Thumb site lies on the western shore ofYellowstone Lake around the West Thumb Geyser Basin.The site extends from the junction of the Loop Road withthe South Entrance Road at West Thumb north along thelakeshore about 2 miles and includes the Potts HotSpring Basin. The area is easily accessible in thesummertime since it lies along these roads, but it isclosed in the winter.

DescriptionThe lakeshore around West Thumb junction containsmany thermal features. Some of the rare species arerestricted to these warm areas (Dichantheliumacuminatum, Gnaphalium microcephalum var.thermale). The site includes a low-lying area with so-called paint pots and hot springs along the shore. DuckLake is about 0.25 miles west of the shore.

Key Environmental FactorsThermal features.

RarityRanking based on GRanks of known elements at the site.Although most occurrences are not ranked, the site isheavily used during tourist season so occurrences areprobably lower quality.

White Bird

DirectionsWhite Bird Fishing Access is located in the high plainsof south central Montana. From Columbus, travel southon State Highway 78 for approximately 6 miles. Turnwest at the sign for White Bird Fishing Access.

DescriptionWhite Bird is located on the floodplain of the StillwaterRiver. Most of the site is dominated by mature stands ofPopulus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa (black cotton-wood). These stands are primarily grazing disclimaxeswith no or minimal native shrub cover, and the under-story is dominated by exotic herbaceous species,including Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) andPhalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass). The site alsosupports a stand of Populus balsamifera sap.trichocarpa / Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood). This stand has a well-established tallshrub layer of Prunus virginiana (chokecherry), but theCornus sericea is heavily browsed by wild ungulatesand Phalaris arundinacea is abundant in the ground

layer. Cottonwood regeneration is occurring at this site:a gravel/cobble bar supports a well-established stand ofsapling-sized Populus angustifolia (narrowleaf cotton-wood) and Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa. Sidechannels below bankfull elevation are hydric andsupport a Phalaris arundinacea community.

Key Environmental FactorsFlooding and associated substrate deposition andproximity of groundwater are the primary abiotic factorsthat influence vegetation at this site. Ungulate browsingis also an important influence on the structure andcomposition of shrubs at the site.

RarityNo special status plants or animals were observed. OneG3 community, Populus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa /Cornus sericea (black cottonwood / red-osier dogwood),was documented in fair condition.

Land UseThis site is a Department of Fish, Wildlife & ParksFishing Access site. It receives heavy recreational use,and the roads and campsites degrade the integrity of thesite. A recent fire burned a small stand of Salix exigua(sandbar willow).

ExoticsExotic species are abundant. Phalaris arundinacea(reed canarygrass) dominates hydric sloughs and moremesic cottonwood stands. Other common exotic speciesinclude Cynoglossum officinale (hound’s tongue),Cirsium spp. (thistle), Centaurea maculosa (spottedknapweed), Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge), Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass), and Dactylis glomerata(orchard grass). Euphorbia esula has been spotsprayed along roadsides.

UplandsAway from the riparian area, land use is primarilylivestock grazing, dispersed housing, and agriculture.

Information NeedsWhat was land use before site was acquired by FWP?

Management NeedsGreater weed control efforts are needed, although withhigh public use and upstream seed source, this effort willbe perpetual.

Wyoming Line

DirectionsNote: a portion of this site is located on private land,and landowner permission is needed to access that area.Wyoming Line is located east of the Beartooth Moun-

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tains in south central Montana. From Belfry, travel 8.5miles south on State Route 72 to an intersection with acounty road to the southwest. Follow this road for 0.7mile to a junction with a county road to the west.Continue westerly on this road for approximately 1 mileto junction with an unimproved road extending north andsouth. Travel south on this road for approximately 0.5mile to an intersection. Continue south on the southerlyfork for 0.1 mile to another junction with another unim-proved road. Travel in a general southwesterly directionfor 1.5 miles to the Wyoming Line wetland.

DescriptionThis wetland is located just east of the Beartooth Plateauin a small valley that has springy areas throughout. Thewetland has a small, intermittent creek that drains thesite. The uplands are dominated by Artemisia tridentata(big sagebrush), Sarcobatus vermiculatus (blackgreasewood), and Leymus cinereus (basin wildrye).Carex pellita (woolly sedge) dominates the marsh.Cover ranges from very high in the central portion of themarsh to moderate on the margins. The water in thiscommunity is slightly brackish, with a conductivity of1020 µS/cm. The cover of exotics increases at the edgesof this community, perhaps because this drier portion ofthe community receives more grazing pressure. Thereare small inclusions of Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail)and Schoenoplectus sp. (bulrush) within the Carexpellita community. A Pascopyrum smithii (westernwheatgrass) community forms a small patch in the driestportion of this marsh.

Key Environmental FactorsLocalized groundwater upwelling and seep areasconstitute, apart from scant precipitation, the onlysource of water in this very dry environment.

RarityThis site consists predominately of a high qualityoccurrence of a Carex pellita (woolly sedge) community.

Land UseLivestock grazing has been and continues to be theprimary use of this landscape.

ExoticsOnly two exotic/increaser species were observed:Sonchus uliginosus (marsh sow-thistle) and Ambrosiaartemisiifolia (annual ragweed).

UplandsLivestock grazing and hunting are conducted in thelandscape surrounding this site.

Information NeedsThe ultimate source of water for this site is unknown.

Identification of this source would be useful so that anyactions that threaten its continued flow could beavoided.

Management NeedsManaging livestock to minimize or avoid the spread ofweeds would be beneficial.

Yellowstone Lake

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau, all of Yellowstone Lake.

DescriptionSite encompasses Yellowstone Lake and surroundingaquatic habitats (streams, rivers, wetlands).

RarityThe site contains many high-ranking animal occurrences(see list) as well as Yellowstone cutthroat trout spawningareas adjacent to the lake, which are also an importantfood source for grizzly bears. Site contains the entireglobal population of Abronia ammophila (G1/S1).

Other ValuesNational Park, high use by boaters in some areas.

Yellowstone Lake Southeast

DirectionsYellowstone Plateau, Southeast Arm of YellowstoneLake, extending from the confluence of Columbus Creeksouth to Trail Creek and including the eastern half of thepeninsula on the west shore of the southeast arm. Siteincludes the Molly Islands in the south end of the lake.

DescriptionThis site incorporates nearly the entire Southeast Arm ofYellowstone Lake as well as a about 1 mile band inland ofthe adjacent shore. In addition, it includes the MollyIslands about 0.5 miles off shore, one of the mostimportant colonial nesting waterbird sites in Wyoming.The Southeast Arm is closed to boats with motors, andrequires a permit for use. At the extreme south end of theArm, the Yellowstone River enters Yellowstone Lake in aseries of wetlands.

Key Environmental FactorsWater levels, degree of disturbance.


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RarityContains an A ranked occurrence of an American whitepelican breeding colony (G3 S1B) and colonies of otherstate rare breeding waterfowl.

Yellowstone River Corridor

DirectionsThis site is located along the Yellowstone River in southcentral Montana. The upper boundary can be reachedfrom Hwy. 89 near Gardiner, MT. The central portion canbe reached from I-90, from Livingston to Custer, MT.

DescriptionThis site has a rich diversity of aquatic, riverine, wetlandand adjacent upland habitats along the main-stem of theYellowstone River from the Wyoming border to theconfluence with the Bighorn River. Unlike most majorrivers in the west, the Yellowstone River is free frommayor impoundments that have dramatically altered thehydrologic regime. The Yellowstone is characterized as arelatively free-flowing river. The intact hydrology andriver dynamics give rise to important cottonwoodfloodplain communities. The aquatic environmentsinclude both cold water and warm water species.Adjacent uplands (within the 1 kilometer buffer) includebenches, slopes, cliffs, rock outcrops and historic river-bottom that support shrublands of sagebrush (all threesubspecies of Artemisia tridentata), grasslands consist-ing of bluebunch wheatgrass, and woodlands ofprimarily Pinus ponderosa (ponderosa pine).

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding is the principal process facilitating theestablishment and regeneration of cottonwood forestsand riparian communities. Consequently, the process ofseasonal flooding has direct implications to the numer-ous plant and animal species occurring within the rivercorridor.

RarityThe site boundary includes a kilometer buffer on eitherside of the river and therefore contains a diverseenvironment. In the headwaters near the Wyomingborder, the river corridor includes habitat for Ursusarctos horribilis (grizzly bear), Lynx canadensi (Canadalynx), and Canis lupus (gray wolf). Cold water aquaticenvironments support Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri(Yellowstone cutthroat trout); downstream warm wateraquatic species include Scaphirhynchus albus (pallidsturgeon), Polyodon spathula (paddlefish), Cycleptuselongatus (blue sucker), the Hybopsis meeki (sicklefinchub) and sturgeon chub. River and floodplain habitatsare very important; three species of cottonwoods,Populus angustifolia (narrowleaf cottonwood), Populusbalsamifera spp. trichocarpa (black cottonwood) and

Populus deltoides (plains cottonwood) occur in galleryforests and terraces and provide habitat for nesting,wintering and migrating Haliaeetus leucocephalus (baldeagle) and rookery sites for blue heron. Channel graveland sand bars provide habitat for Rorippa calcyina(persistent-sepal yellowcress), although this species hasnot been relocated in recent years and Trionyx spiniferus(spiny softshell). Riparian communities include the rareplants Eleocharis rostellata (beaked spikerush) andCyperus schweinitzii (Schweinitz’s flatsedge). A notableshorebirds recorded from this stretch include the Sternaantillarum athalassos (interior least tern). Two reptiles,the Heterodon nasicus (western hognose snake) andLampropeltis triangulum (milk snake) have beenreported from the river corridor.

Other ValuesThe Yellowstone river is a relatively free flowing river,restricted only by the occasional riprap along the banksand numerous irrigation diversions and pumpingstations. This site captures the nesting and foraginghabitats of a plethora of species associated with the riverand it’s floodplain.

Land UseAgriculture, rural and urban developments and subse-quent bank stabilization activities take place along thecorridor. Diversions and dams for irrigation canals exitsalong the main stem and tributaries of the upperYellowstone River. Irrigation is the major water use.Both irrigation and municipal use of groundwater hasincreased since 1970, with over 7,000 new wells within 5miles of either side of the bank along the upperYellowstone River in Montana (MT Bureau of Mines andGeology Wells database).

ExoticsThere are infestations of numerous exotic plant speciesand populations of exotic fish species. Non-nativesalmonid species compete and / or hybridize with theOncorhynchus clarki bouvieri (Yellowstone cutthroattrout).

Information NeedsAn assessment of the health, population structure, andage of cottonwoods along islands in the main channelwould quantify the dynamics of cottonwood andchannel bar establishment.

Yellowstone River-Stillwater River

DirectionsNote: This site is located on private land, and landownerpermission is required to access this site. YellowstoneRiver-Stillwater River site is located at the mouth of theStillwater River in south central Montana. From Colum-

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bus, travel 1.6 miles southwesterly on State Route 78 toan unimproved road to the west. Follow the unimprovedroad for 0.25 mile to a side channel of the YellowstoneRiver. Yellowstone River-Stillwater River is approxi-mately 0.4 mile upstream in a westerly direction.

DescriptionThis site occurs on a terrace at the confluence of theYellowstone and Stillwater Rivers. A well-developedPopulus deltoides / Symphoricarpos occidentalis(plains cottonwood / western snowberry) communityoccurs at this site. The overstory is dominated byPopulus deltoides, and there is also significant cover ofPopulus angustifolia (narrowleaf cottonwood) andPopulus balsamifera sap. trichocarpa (black cotton-wood). All of these trees are 90-100 feet tall and average20 inches or more diameter at breast height. The shrubunderstory is quite diverse and well developed, but isclearly dominated by Symphoricarpos occidentalis.Other shrubs include Ribes aureum (golden currant),Toxicodendron rydbergii (poison ivy), Rosa sp. (rose),Prunus virginiana (chokecherry), Shepherdia argentea(thorny buffaloberry), Cornus sericea (red-osier dog-wood), Parthenocissus inserta (Virginia creeper),Clematis ligusticifolia (western clematis), Ribes sp.(gooseberry), and Juniperus scopulorum (RockyMountain juniper). Glycyrrhiza lepidota (Americanlicorice), Rudbeckia laciniata (cutleaf coneflower), andthe exotic grass Bromus inermis (smooth brome)dominate the ground layer. Small inclusions of wettercommunities like Carex pellita (woolly sedge) and open-water pools occur in a series of old overflow channelsthat wind through the cottonwood stand. The soil has aloam texture.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and sediment deposition are respon-sible for creating and maintaining this community.Fluvial processes appear to be largely intact at this site.

RarityA relatively old stand of a G2G3 community, Populusdeltoides / Symphoricarpos occidentalis (plainscottonwood / western snowberry), in good conditionwas documented. Carex tenera (soft sedge), a watchspecies that is under consideration for addition to theMontana plant species of special concern list, wasdocumented at this site. This may be only the secondknown documented occurrence for this species inMontana.

Other ValuesThis tall cottonwood stand represents highly significanthabitat for fish-eating birds of prey because of its statureand location at a large confluence on the YellowstoneRiver. This cottonwood stand contains mature individu-

als of the three cottonwood species that occur inMontana. Analysis of this stand could help refine ourunderstanding of the distribution and habitat require-ments for these species. This stand represents the bestcondition cottonwood community documented on theYellowstone River from Greycliff to Columbus.

Land UseThe heavy cover of Bromus inermis (smooth brome) inthe understory suggests that historically this standcould have been grazed. A small number of cattle werepresent, though the stand did not show signs of regulargrazing. It is not known whether these cows hadescaped or management is changing.

ExoticsThere is low cover of three noxious weeds, Cynoglossumofficinale (hound’s tongue), Cirsium arvense (Canadathistle), and Calystegia sepium (hedge bindweed), in thisstand. Exotic pasture grasses, predominantly Poapratensis (Kentucky bluegrass) and Bromus inermis,dominate the ground layer beneath the native shrublayer. Grass cover is relatively low because of the highshrub cover.

Information NeedsKnowing the land use history of this site would beuseful to understanding the present-day speciescomposition of the stand. Both cattle and wild ungulatesshow a strong browsing preference for Cornus sericea(red-osier dogwood), and the scarcity of Cornus sericeain this stand may be a product of past grazing.

Stands of tall cottonwood approximately 0.5 mileupstream on the Stillwater River were noted but notsurveyed. In addition, nearby islands have beendocumented as having nesting bald eagles. This sitemay be part of a larger woodland complex of significanceat the Stillwater River confluence. We do not know theextent of the stand, and this affects the significance ofthe site.

Management NeedsA noxious weed management plan is needed for theYellowstone River corridor. Euphorbia esula (leafyspurge) is established and a growing threat in the areathough not currently present on this site. Coordinatedefforts are needed to improve control efforts for thispernicious species. Grazing poses a threat to standcondition.

Yellowstone River-Work Creek

DirectionsNote: this site is located on private land, and landownerpermission is required to access this site. Yellowstone

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River-Work Creek is an island in the Yellowstone River insouth central Montana. From Reedpoint, travel 4 mileswest on Interstate 90. Yellowstone River-Work Creek isdue north approximately 0.25 mile.

DescriptionThis site is an island in the Yellowstone River. It isdominated by a well-developed Populus angustifolia /Cornus sericea (narrowleaf cottonwood / red-osierdogwood) community. The average height of thecottonwood canopy is about 80-90 feet, with the red-osier dogwood forming dense 6-10 foot high shrubundergrowth. The shrub layer is diverse and otherassociated shrubs include Symphoricarpos occidentalis(western snowberry), Salix exigua (sandbar willow),Salix lutea (yellow willow), and Ribes sp. (gooseberry).There is a considerable amount of microtopography inthe form of small channels. This creates habitat for avariety of forbs and graminoids, some of which aretolerant of moister conditions. The soils on this oldterrace are silt loam textured with very little organichorizon.

Key Environmental FactorsSeasonal flooding and sediment deposition are respon-sible for creating and maintaining this community; lack ofungulate access probably is instrumental in maintainingthe species composition, particularly the dominance ofCornus sericea (red-osier dogwood).

RarityAlthough no rare species or communities were observedat this location, it is significant because it is one of thefew stands of mature cottonwood forest with an intact

native shrub understory in the stretch of the river fromGreycliff to Columbus. Most cottonwood stands in thisriver reach, and apparently elsewhere judging fromcasual observation, are dominated by undergrowth ofexotic pasture grasses.

Land UseThe high level of coverage by exotic pasture grasses onthe island could indicate some past grazing, possibly at atime when this island was connected to the shore.

ExoticsThree noxious weeds occur at low cover in this stand:Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle), Cirsium arvense (Canadathistle), and Euphorbia esula (leafy spurge). Exoticpasture grasses dominate the ground layer beneath thenative shrub understory. These grasses include Agrostisstolonifera (redtop), Poa pratensis (Kentucky blue-grass), Elymus repens (quackgrass), Bromus inermis(smooth brome), and Phleum pratense (common timo-thy). Phalaris arundinacea (reed canarygrass) is alsopresent in wetter locations.

UplandsIrrigated agricultural crops dominate most of the up-lands, though cattle grazing occurs in the immediateriparian zone. All of fluvial processes are intact.

Management NeedsA noxious weed management plan is needed for theYellowstone River corridor. Euphorbia esula (leafyspurge) is established and a growing threat in the areaand coordinated efforts are needed to improve controlefforts for this pernicious species.

inventory of important biological resources for the upper...

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