Derek Anderson, MN DNR -- Monitoring Rare Plants in Minnesota's Prairies, plus a Discussion of Rare Plants Found in the St Croix Valley
FamilyMeans building, 1875 Northwestern Ave, Stillwater, MN, 55082 Map
Monitoring Rare Plants in Minnesota’s Prairies, plus a Discussion of Rare Plants Found in the St Croix Valley
Derek Anderson, Minnesota Biological Survey, DNR
An important part of conserving rare species is tracking them over time through repeated monitoring. Monitoring allows for a better understanding of life history, trends in population numbers, and responses to management activities. In Minnesota, we monitor several state and federally listed plant species. This includes the federally endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily (Erythronium propullans) , the federally threatened western prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera praeclara) , the federally threatened prairie bush clover (Lespedeza leptostachya), and the state species of special concern, small white lady’s slipper (Cypripedium candidum).
We will look at some of the things learned over the course of monitoring these species (some of which have been monitored for over 30 years). This work has largely been accomplished through the help of citizen scientist volunteers. We will end the program by looking at some of the rare plant species found in the St. Croix River watershed.
Derek Anderson is a botanist with the Minnesota Biological Survey, MN DNR. His primary focus is monitoring and surveying rare plant species in the prairie region of the state (western and southern Minnesota). Additionally, he is the state’s lead on rare plants listed as federally endangered or threatened in the state. Derek grew up in the St. Croix River Valley and enjoys spending time canoeing, kayaking, fishing and camping on the St. Croix River. He has participated in a number of volunteer plant surveys along the river in northwestern Wisconsin.
