Status of Listed Species and Recovery Plan Development
McKittrick Pennyroyal
Hedeoma apiculatum -- Threatened
New Mexico
Current Status:
The McKittrick pennyroyal was listed as threatened in 1982. At that time, limited distribution, low numbers, and low reproductive potential were believed to make the species vulnerable to extincion from habitat disturbance. Since the listing, newly discovered populations have been located in remote areas of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Park trails have been rerouted and new trails are designed to avoid known populations. As a result, the species appears secure, and plans are under way to propose delisting it.
Achievements:
Informal section 7 consultations have taken place with the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management involving grazing plans, oil and gas exploration, and other activities. It was determined that none of these impacted the species due to the remote location, difficult access, and steepness of the terrain. Therefore, no formal section 7 consultations were needed.
Current Recovery Needs:
If the species is delisted, its status will continue to be monitored for at least 5 years, as specified in the Endangered Species Act.
Partnerships
Forest Service: The recovery plan for McKittrick pennyroyal requires the Forest Service to monitor, manage, and evaluate development and land use changes for the species and its habitat. The Forest Service has undertaken surveys to locate populations on its lands and included the species in all biological assessments and evaluations.Bureau of Land Management: Studies funded by the Bureau led to the discovery of additional populations of McKittrick pennyroyal. As a result, the agency is providing additional protection by designating an Area of Critical Environmental Concern for the plant in Eddy County, New Mexico.
National Park Service: This Federal agency monitors the species in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, Forestry and Resources Conservation Division: Through contracts with the Fish and Wildlife Service, the State of New Mexico continues to monitor the species and search for new populations among the cliffs of the Guadalupe Mountains escarpment.
Recovery Plan Status:
Plan approved 4/12/85.
