1997-06-13_REPORT - M1981302 ‎(11)‎

• Permit No: M1981302
• IBM Index Class Name: Report
• Doc Date: 6/13/1997
• From: US DEPT OF THE INTERIOR
• To: TE/UTE LADIES TRESSES COVERY PLAN
• Media Type: D
• Archive: No

6. 1 Conduct genetic studies. It is important to determine the genetic
complement of the Ute ladies'-tresses and understand genetic
variability within and between populations. Studies should be
conducted to acquire this information and incorporate it into
conservation and recovery planning.
6.2 Develoo propagation and transplanting Protocols. Studies should be
conducted to develop protocols for propagation and transplanting.
The process of and requirements for germination and maturation to
reproducing adults in orchids are complex and poorly understood, and
for this species, completely unknown. Many orchids develop a
symbiotic relationship with soil fungi and may exist as symbionts
underground for many years. Understanding the requirements and
developing protocols for propagation and transplanting will be useful
for mitigation planning, maintaining genetic stock, augmenting
declining populations, and possible reintroductions.
6.3 Conduct life history and demographic studies. Research should be
conducted on pollination biology, breeding systems, life history, and
demographics. Demographic studies should focus on identifying the
most vulnerable life history stages and determining what factors
contribute to that vulnerability. Demographic studies should also
elucidate the age structure or composition of viable populations and
how can it be measured or assessed. This information is necessary in
order to design and evaluate population monitoring programs and set
population targets for recovery.
6.4 Conduct ecology studies. Research should be conducted on habitat
requirements of the orchid and responses of various life stages to
critical habitat features. This information is necessary in order to
design and evaluate habitat management programs and predict the
consequences of habitat alterations on long term viability.
6.5 Conduct habitat and watershed management studies. Research should be
conducted on how to create, rehabilitate, maintain, and manage
habitat. The orchid appears to require early to mid-seral riparian
habitats created and maintained by streams active within their
floodplains. Research is needed on relationships between watershed
condition and management and creation and maintenance of habitat for
the orchid, with particular focus on how watershed condition and
management influence stream movement within floodplains. Studies
should also focus on geomorphology, hydrography, and groundwater and
stream hydrology and how they influence riparian area soil moisture
and vegetation communities. Additional research is needed on special
management needs of riparian, wet meadow, seep, and spring vegetation
communities so that grazing, weed, and recreation management programs
can be designed and evaluated. Information from these studies will
be used to develop habitat management objectives.
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