The only known populations of the Colorado butterfly plant are mostly on private land within a small area in southeastern Wyoming, western Nebraska, and north-central Colorado. With less than 50,000 reproducing individuals, only 10 of the 14 current populations are considered stable or increasing.
The plant is found in moist areas of floodplains and stands 2-3 feet tall with one or a few reddish, fuzzy stems and white flowers that turn pink or red with age. Only a few flowers are open at one time and these are located below the rounded buds and above the mature fruits. Non-flowering plants consist of a stemless, basal rosette of oblong, hairless leaves 1-7 inches long.
Non-selective herbicide spraying, haying and mowing at certain times of year, some water development, land conversion for cultivation, competition from exotic plants, and loss of habitat to urban growth are the main threats to the plant. The low numbers and limited distribution of this herbaceous plant contribute to its vulnerability to natural and human-caused disturbances and environmental stresses. Further reduction in the number of plants could affect its reproductive capability and the genetic diversity of the species.
Two populations of the Colorado butterfly plant occur on F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. In 1990, a research natural area research natural area
The National Wildlife Refuge System contains 210 research natural areas (RNAs) that are part of a nationwide network of ecological areas set aside for both research and education. The areas "contain important ecological and scientific values and are managed for minimum human disturbance.” Recreation activities are allowed, but some RNAs may be closed to the public if incompatible with an individual refuge's primary conversation purposes.
Learn more about research natural area was established to include all the known, naturally-occurring populations on the base. Additionally, various agreements have been implemented to provide protection to the plant on the base and it is the intent of the Service to meet with private landowners and develop further agreements.
Native plants are important for their ecological, economic and aesthetic values. Plants play an important role in development of crops that resist disease, insects and drought. At least 25 percent of prescription drugs contain ingredients derived from plant compounds, including treatments for cancer, juvenile leukemia, heart disease and malaria, and medicines to assist in organ transplants. Plants are also being used to develop natural pesticides.
A species is deemed to be threatened if it is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. The Endangered Species Act directs Federal agencies to protect and promote the recovery of listed species. Collection of listed plants on Federal lands is unlawful. In addition, proposed Federal projects and actions require review to ensure they will not jeopardize the survival of the species. For private and non-Federal landowners, consultations come into play only in cases where activities involving listed species require Federal funding or permitting. The endangered Species Act does not prohibit
