Illinois Plant S-rank Project

Charles, Brian M.; Spyreas, Greg; Marcum, Paul B.; Ulaszek, Eric; Zaya, David N.; Molano-Flores, Brenda

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/123977 Copy

Description

Title

Illinois Plant S-rank Project

Author(s)

• Charles, Brian M.
• Spyreas, Greg
• Marcum, Paul B.
• Ulaszek, Eric
• Zaya, David N.
• Molano-Flores, Brenda

Issue Date

2024-06-30

Keyword(s)

• Endangered Plants
• Threatened Plants
• Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board

Geographic Coverage

Illinois

Abstract

First, we gathered records for all endangered and threatened (hereafter E/T) plant species in Illinois. To accomplish this, we visited herbaria around the Midwest, searched online databases, obtained previously unshared data from local conservation agencies, consulted with botanical experts, and visited over 150 historical plant records in the field which had not been seen in over 20 years. Next, we determined the natural community associations for all E/T species. We then created a Watch List of non-listed species of conservation concern for the state, composed of 35 Species. In order to create this list, we searched herbaria, databases, and contacted experts both within and outside of Illinois. We then assigned S-ranks to all 330 E/T species and the 35 Watch List species (365 total species) in the state. We used these Sranks to identify areas which contained E/T/Watch List species but did not have any formal land protection. The final list contained 203 sites ranked by conservation priority. We then created a threats assessment for all E/T species in Illinois. Using the threats data and the newly assessed S-ranks, we created a rarity-weighted richness map which displays hotspots of S1-S3 species. To assist the plant Endangered Species Technical Advisory Committee (ESTAC) of the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board (ESPB), we created a list of trending positive species and criteria for their eventual delisting. We collaborated widely with IDNR District Heritage Biologists, Natural Areas Preservation Specialists, and other land managers in order to ensure that their input was considered and that they are aware of and will utilize the resultant products.

Publisher

Illinois Natrual History Survey

Series/Report Name or Number

INHS Technical Report 2024 (13)

Type of Resource

text

Language

eng

Copyright and License Information

This document is a product of the Illinois Natural History Survey, and has been selected and made available by the Illinois Natural History Survey and the University Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It is intended solely for noncommercial research and educational use, and proper attribution is requested.

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