Should Plant Exclusive to East Bay be Listed as an Endangered, Threatened Species?

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife said Wednesday that it is seeking public comment as it reviews whether a plant found only in Alameda County should be listed as a threatened or endangered species. Part of the sunflower family, the Livermore tarplant is a yellow flower that blooms annually in just a handful of locations around the eastern portion of the Livermore Valley.

The initial petition that recommended protection of the Livermore tarplant reported that it is threatened by alteration of habitat due to industrial and agricultural uses, non-native grasses, off-road vehicle use and possible development. In April, California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials concluded that there was ample evidence to make the plant a candidate for protection under the California Endangered Species Act.

The department is now in the process of preparing a review of the plant’s status, and is inviting any interested parties to submit data and comments for this review. These comments can be sent to nativeplants@wildlife.ca.gov, but no later than Dec. 31, 2015.

A decision on whether to list the Livermore tarplant as a threatened or endangered species will be issued at a public meeting after public comments are received.

By Bay City News

Photo courtesy Lech Naumovich