Assessing the status of Abronia turbinata in southeastern Oregon

Abronia turbinata (transmontane sand verbena)  is a type of verbena exclusive to the high desert regions of Nevada, Eastern California, and Southeastern Oregon. As of 2008 only eight known populations existed within Oregon. The goal of this project was to conduct surveys to determine the distribution of Abronia turbinata within Oregon, estimate the size of populations, and determine potential threats to these populations. Surveys for A. turbinata were conducted during the 2008-2010 field seasons at known population sites as well as nearby areas of suitable habitat. Five of the known populations proved to be extant, while three were unable to be relocated and are considered extirpated. Seven new populations were also discovered. Although our survey work was not exhaustive, these populations suggest the species’ range in Oregon is limited to areas in and around the Alvord Desert. Reproductive individuals constituted most of the populations, which ranged in size from 9 to 411 individuals. Few acute threats to A. tubinata were identified, however several long-term threats such as climate change-induced habitat changes, competition with invasive species, as well as anthropogenic disturbances were identified.