Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Status for the Plant Plagiobothrys hirtus (Rough Popcornflower)

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, have determined endangered status pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended, for the plant Plagiobothrys hirtus (rough popcornflower). This species is restricted to wet swales and meadows in Douglas County, Oregon, where only 17 habitat patches exist for this species. Most populations are small with few individuals. The total estimated number of plants is about 7,000 individuals within a combined area of about 18 hectares (45 acres). Threats to this species include destruction and/or alteration of habitat by development and hydrological changes (e.g., wetland fills, draining, construction); spring and summer grazing by domestic cattle, horses, and sheep; roadside maintenance; and competition from native and non-native plant species. This rule implements the Federal protection afforded by the Act for this plant.