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Rare
and Vulnerable Plant Species of Oklahoma
Introduction
There
are over 4,000 plants species potentially vulnerable to extinction
in the United States and seventeen of these sensitive species
occur in Oklahoma. At least one of these, the earleaf false-foxglove
(Agalinis auriculata), has not been found in Oklahoma
since1929. These sensitive species need current study to determine
their true status and range. Depending on results, they may
prove either to be rare but unthreatened or they may merit
listing as endangered.
Protection
and Conservation of Vulnerable Plants
The
protection and conservation of these vulnerable species is
an important objective. Species loss, in general, may be indicative
of an overall deterioration in environmental quality. Each
of these species has a unique role to play in the maintenance
of a healthy environment.
Causes
of Decline
Sensitive
species are threatened by many factors, but habitat destruction
is a chief threat. Other factors include disease, invasion
of non-native plants, and herbicides. These factors may work
alone or in combination, leading to the demise of a plant
species.
U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service
The
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is mandated by law
to protect and conserve endangered and threatened species.
The USFWS also provides information on species proposed for
listing as endangered and threatened.
What
you can do to help sensitive species
Increase
your awareness of vulnerable species. Learn what factors are
responsible for species decline. Become acquainted with which
rare species might exist in your area. Your local library is
a good place to start.
Be
informed. Understand wildlife and conservation issues in your
area and share this information with others.
Visit
a USFWS National Wildlife Refuge or Oklahoma Department of Wildlife
Conservation Wildlife Management Area. These facilities were
established to preserve our rich natural heritage and provide
educational opportunities designed to enhance our understanding
of the natural world. You can also help by volunteering your
time and talents.
Plan
your vacation to includes observation of plants and animals
in their natural habitat. Such a trip will enhance your appreciation
of our native plant and animal species and the world around
us.
Join
a local or national conservation organization. Check your local
library for reference books and directories, such as the Conservation
Directory published by the National Wildlife Federation,
for additional information.
Acknowledgments
This
document was prepared by the following individuals: Ian Butler,
James Estes, Bruce Hoagland, Rahmona Thompson, Gary Schnell,
Patricia Smith, Caryn Vaughn, and Linda Watson, and Paul Kores.
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