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Current Status:

The most serious threats to the northeastern bulrush are the draining, dredging, and filling of its wetland habitat for development, agriculture, and recreation. Additional threats include point and non-point source pollution, natural succession, and herbivory.

Achievements:

A draft recovery plan for this species is undergoing public review, and the final plan should be completed in 1993. Listing has focused attention on this rare wetland species, leading to the discovery of seven additional populations in the State. Also, botanists are intensively monitoring a few populations to gain necessary information on the species' life history and habitat requirements.

Current Recovery Needs:

Prevailing recovery needs include protection for known populations and their habitat, and searches for additional populations. Protection will require frequent contacts between the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the appropriate State agencies charged with regulating wetlands and endangered species to ensure that existing Federal and State laws and regulations are implemented. Protection may also include land acquisition and conservation easements. Because little is known about the ecology and life history of this species, studies must be conducted to determine habitat requirements, life history, reproductive strategy, and genetic variability.

Section 6 Funding and Activities:

In both FY 1991 and FY 1992, the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry received $3,000 to monitor known populations and identify potential habitat using aerial photographs, soil surveys, and geological maps.

Partnerships

Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry: This State agency is monitoring existing populations annually and conducting surveys for additional populations.

The Nature Conservancy: With $1,600 provided by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Conservancy conducted field searches in Pennsylvania and located seven previously unknown populations. The Conservancy is also pursuing conservation easements to protect bulrush populations on private property.

Recovery Plan Status:

Technical/Agency draft plan.