Survey Protocols For Survey and Manage Component 2: Bryophytes

Memo to District and Area Managers, et. al.

Diplophyllum plicatum

Kurzia makinoana

Marsupella emarginata

Ptilidium californicum

Tritomaria exsectiformis

Appendices:
A
B
C
D

SURVEY STRATEGY 2 PROTOCOL

for

Diplophyllum plicatum Lindb.

Version 2.0

10 Dec. 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Introduction to the Issues

Diplophyllum plicatum was considered a rare, narrowly distributed species by the bryophyte viability panel (FEMAT 1993). Viability concerns were based on its uncommon occurrence and its narrow distribution. The viability ratings reflected a high level of concern for this species.

Diplophyllum plicatum has various designations by different organizations that reflect its rarity and concern for its viability. It was identified as a Survey and Manage strategy 1 and 2 species (USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land Management 1994). Other designations include:

• The Nature Conservancy, Oregon Natural History Program (1995) Rank S3 (species for which more information is needed before status can be determined, but which may be threatened or endangered in Oregon or throughout its range
• BLM Oregon Washington Tracking Species (McCaffrey pers. comm.)

Field survey for lichens and bryophytes occurs at a much finer scale than vascular plants given the relatively small size of these organisms. Thus it becomes necessary to scale down and look at the habitat and substrate at a finer level to determine the presence or absence of species like Diplophyllum plicatum.

B. Unique Characteristics, Biology and Ecology of Diplophyllum plicatum

Diplophyllum plicatum is a large, loosely tufted, dark green (to brownish or yellowish) leafy liverwort. Stems have an external layer of colored and thickened cells, 1-3 cells thick, and internal cells averaging about the same size. Two rows of bilobed, folded leaves closely clasp the stem at the base and are inserted transversely, with decurrent ventral lobes that are 2-4 times as long as wide. A well-developed, but inconspicuous band of elongated cells (vitta) in each lobe is evident with magnification. Deeply pleated (plicate) perianths, lobulate to lobed at the mouth may be present in the forks of branches.

The similar species, Diplophyllum albicans can be separated from D. plicatum on the basis of the larger, conspicuous vitta in its leaf lobes. These can be easily seen with a handlens. Diplophyllum plicatum has small inconspicuous vitta that are evident only under a microscope. In addition, the leaf cells in D. albicans do not have pronounced rounded, nobby, bulged cell wall thickenings (nodose trigones), whereas they are present in D. plicatum.

Technical description: leaves are complicate-bilobed, decurrent dorsally and ventrally, lobe and lobule are unequal, blunt or with a broad pointed apex, lower lobes of leaves are 2-2.5 mm long, 0.8 mm wide, upper lobes are 1.2-1.7 mm long with margins varying from entire to finely serrate, leaf stems usually more than 2 cm long and more than 2 mm wide, leaf cells are strongly collenchymatous, with nodose trigones.

Diplophyllum plicatum is dioicous, with male inflorescence terminal or farther down the stem. Perianths are cylindrical, half emergent, slightly or not compressed dorsiventrally, deeply pleated (plicate) to the base with about 16 folds. Asexual propagules called gemmae are brown, rounded to cubical and 2-4 celled. Sporophytes are not common

Diplophyllum plicatum occurs in cool habitats with high humidity. Such areas are common along the immediate coast and in the Coast Range, but may occur on the western slopes of the Cascades with frequent fog and where coastal vegetation extends into the Cascades.

C. Protocol Objectives

The objective of the survey protocol for Diplophyllum plicatum is to determine the presence/absence of the species within the proposed project area.

D. Trigger for Protocol

Implementation of this survey protocol for Diplophyllum plicatum will occur if the proposed ground-disturbing activity will directly or indirectly impact populations or alter the stand or habitat conditions (e.g., any type of tree removal activity, including removal of dead trees, logs, stumps, or harvest of special forest products), and if any of the following three criteria are met.

• a known site of Diplophyllum plicatum exists in the proposed project area
• a known site of Diplophyllum plicatum has been reported in the vicinity (e.g., 5th field watershed adjacent to the proposed project area)
• the proposed project area occurs within the known or suspected range of Diplophyllum plicatum, and there is suitable habitat within the proposed project area (Figure 1)

Figure 1.

(Includes Known Site Database (Version 2.0) and new information)

E. Threats to Diplophyllum plicatum

The major viability consideration for Diplophyllum plicatum is loss of populations due to management activities that impact the habitat or the populations. Threats to this species include logging of old-growth, particularly the remaining Sitka spruce stands, road construction, campground construction, and the collection of special forest products.

F. Specific Habitat Associations

Diplophyllum plicatum is found on both organic and inorganic substrates. Known substrates have included decayed wood, down logs, trunks of Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir), Taxus brevifolia (Pacific yew) and Picea sitchensis (Sitka spruce), mineral soil, and rock. It occurs on moist north-facing cliffs, especially in shaded cliff crevices along river and stream banks, and on soil of upturned roots.

G. Known Range of Diplophyllum plicatum

Diplophyllum plicatum has a North Pacific distribution which includes Japan, Alaska, Siberia and the Pacific Northwest. Within the range of the northern spotted owl, 18 known sites in Washington and three in Oregon are documented (Figure 1), based on the Known Site Database (KSDB), version 2.0. Most of these sites are on Federal land with the majority of them occurring on the Olympic National Park. Known sites occur on Federal lands within the following Washington counties: Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson and Mason (Olympic National Park), Pierce County (Mt. Rainier National Park), Snohomish and Whatcom (Mt. Baker Snoqualamie National Forest), and Skamania (Gifford Pinchot National Forest). Sites on non-Federal land in Washington are Aberdeen, Pacific Beach, Westport (Grays Harbor County). The Oregon sites are all on non-Federal land. They include Cape Perpetua (Lincoln County), Saddle Mt. State Park, and Seaside (Clatsop County).

H. Suspected Range of Diplophyllum plicatum

Diplophyllum plicatum occurs in coastal areas with high humidity and in cool, humid patches along the west side of the Cascades. It appears to be more abundant in Washington but this may result from limited inventory in other locations. Suspected range could include any areas along the west slope of the Cascades where cool, humid conditions occur. Additional collecting in these areas will determine the southern extent of its range.

II. INVENTORY METHODOLOGY

A. Sampling Procedures

1. Prefield review

The objective of the pre-field review is to determine if known sites are present in (or in the vicinity of) the proposed ground-disturbing activity area, and to determine if suitable habitat for Diplophyllum plicatum exists in the proposed ground-disturbing activity area. Consult the current Known Site Database (KSDB) or the Interagency Species Management System (ISMS), GIS layers of potential or current vegetation, stand age maps, stand exam data, ecology program database, Current Vegetation Survey (CVS) inventory, botany program survey records, bryophyte inventory data, and habitat models (if available) for the area of interest to determine if Diplophyllum plicatum is known to occur in the area. Evaluate the available information to determine the location and habitat of populations of Diplophyllum plicatum. Mark the locations of reported sites on topographic maps and aerial photos to be used in the field survey.

The prefield review will result in identification of reported sites of Diplophyllum plicatum and areas of suitable habitat for this species within the proposed project area. These are the areas where the survey will initially be conducted. Field surveys are not required if reported sites do not exist in the proposed ground-disturbing activity area or in the vicinity, and if it is determined that suitable habitat for Diplophyllum plicatum is not likely to exist in the proposed project area. Documentation of the prefield review will become part of the administrative record.

A habitat review will identify general topographic and special habitat features and determine if suitable habitat for Survey and Manage bryophyte species could occur within the proposed project area. This can be completed in either the office or the field, but should at least consist of reviewing project area maps, available aerial photographs, and agency and non-agency records detailing the habitat characteristics and distribution of the bryophytes in the vicinity.

2. Field Survey

The objective of the field survey is to document the presence/absence of Diplophyllum plicatum within the proposed area of ground-disturbing activity to determine if protective measures are needed. Information beyond presence/absence will contribute to our knowledge of the distribution of Diplophyllum plicatum throughout the area of the Northwest Forest Plan. Identification of this species requires microscopic examination (see documenting the presence in II A 2a) and vouchers will need to be collected for this purpose (see Appendix D).

a. Intuitive Controlled Survey

For large areas proposed for ground-disturbing activity an intuitive controlled survey should be used. These surveys include intensive searches in areas with the highest potential for locating Survey and Manage bryophytes. The surveyor makes bryophyte observations along routes which cover a representative sample of all major topographic and potential microhabitats (see appropriate habitat requirements per species, in section I F). Search routes within the project area will traverse the ground-disturbing activity area as the surveyor moves from one particular potential habitat or topographic feature to another. Intuitive Controlled inventories are particularly effective when performed over a large area (e.g., ground-disturbing activities greater than one hectare or 2.47 acres).

b. Complete Survey

For smaller areas (e.g., ground-disturbing activities less than approximately one hectare (2.47 acres) conduct a Complete Survey. This survey is defined as a 100 percent visual examination of the ground-disturbing activity area. Complete surveys are particularly effective when performed over a small area . This survey would be carried out only when a small area has a high potential for specific Survey and Manage bryophyte species.

c. Documenting the Presence of Diplophyllum plicatum

If populations of Diplophyllum plicatum are found, mark the location of the population on field maps and aerial photos. Complete the field form (including habitat information which is needed for species identification) for documentation of known sites of this species (see Appendix A). A small (not larger than the palm of a hand) but adequate voucher specimen should be collected (only if removal of material will not significantly impact the population) to verify the identification and to document the presence of Diplophyllum plicatum. If the population is very small, remove only enough material needed for microscopic identification. The following references will provide assistance in identifying the species: Christy and Wagner 1996, Schuster 1974, Frye and Clark 1945.

d. Documenting the Absence of Diplophyllum plicatum

If Diplophyllum plicatum was not encountered in the field survey, or is absent in a portion of the area surveyed, then document its absence within the survey area of the proposed ground-disturbing activity. Include in this documentation the areal extent of the survey and project area clearly delineated on topographic maps and aerial photos (see Appendix B, spatial documentation of extent of survey). In addition, the name of the surveyor, date(s) of survey, and project name should be noted. Submit this documentation for the administrative record.

B. Extent of Surveys

The field survey will cover the extent of the proposed project area with a focus on reported sites and suitable habitat for Diplophyllum plicatum. In addition, the area adjacent to the boundary of the project area may need to be surveyed if the proposed project will directly or indirectly affect the habitat and microclimate conditions of adjacent suitable habitat or reported sites.

C. Timing of Surveys

In general, timing is less restrictive for bryophyte surveys than for vascular plants, given the presence of bryophytes year round, and ability at any time of year to accurately identify Diplophyllum plicatum. However, surveys should be conducted during the growing season (snow free period) in order to facilitate safe and efficient field work.

D. Information to Collect Beyond Presence/Absence (if time permits)

Collection of information beyond presence/absence, location and basic habitat description is optional, but highly recommended. A complete record of detailed ecological requirements and population information for occurrences of Diplophyllum plicatum will contribute to our knowledge of the species and will assist us in our management of the species. Use Appendix C to record data for fields currently in the known site database or ISMS for sites where Diplophyllum plicatum is documented. If you collect this information please forward copies to the Interagency Regional Bryologist/Lichenologist Judy Harpel, c/o Gifford Pinchot National Forest, 10600 N.E. 51st. Circle, Vancouver, WA 98682.

III. DATA MANAGEMENT

A. Data Quality Assurance

A data steward should be designated for each administrative unit who will be responsible for the quality and completeness of the survey data, including the prefield review and the field survey information. This includes adequate and accurate data collection, prompt and accurate data entry into the corporate database (ISMS) when it becomes available, and hard copy formats. This is an important aspect to ensure credibility of the interpretations, and analysis or management direction that are based on this data. Data quality will be assured at the local level, and adhere to any regional agency standards for data management.

B. Data Storage

Data will be stored at the administrative unit (National Forest, BLM District) and be available in a corporate database for local and regional use according to policy developed for the ISMS database and Survey and Manage taxa. Site locations for Diplophyllum plicatum will be available in a GIS layer that is linked to a database with supporting information. Electronic and hard copies will be maintained and accessible to agency personnel requiring this information to successfully implement the Survey and Manage Standard and Guideline and other agency goals under the Northwest Forest Plan. The hard copy file will include documentation of prefield review, field survey data, field form and field notes, voucher specimen location and any other supporting information and should be kept as case file documentation.

IV. SURVEYING SKILLS

A. Surveyor Background/Qualifications/Skills

Personnel conducting surveys for bryophytes need to have the following skills essential to identification:

• micro-techniques used for identification including the ability to make microscope slides of leaves, sporophytes, cross-sections of stems and leaves
• ability to distinguish different species that are often mixed together
• ability to use the dichotomous bryological keys and literature for the Pacific Northwest

Personnel need to be experienced in field techniques to document the areas surveyed and occupied by the Survey and Manage bryophytes.

V. REFERENCES

Christy, J.A. and D.H. Wagner. 1996. Guide for the identification of rare, threatened or sensitive bryophytes in the region of the northern spotted owl, western Washington, western Oregon, and northwestern California. USDI Bureau of Land Management, USDA Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, and Northwest Botanical Institute.

Forest Ecosystem Management Assessment Team 1993. Forest Ecosystem Management: An Ecological, Economic, and Social Assessment. USDA Forest Service, USDI Bureau of Land Management, USDC National Marine Fisheries Service, USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, USDI National Park Service, and Environmental Protection Agency.

Frye, T.C. and L. Clark. 1945. Hepaticae of North America. No. 3. University of Washington Publications in Biology 6: 337-564.

McCaffrey, Cheryl.1997. Bureau of Land Management, Oregon State Office

Oregon Natural Heritage Program. 1995. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants and Animals of Oregon. Oregon Natural Heritage Program, Portland, Oregon.

Schuster, R.M. 1974. The Hepaticae and Anthocerotae of North America. Vol. III. Columbia University Press. New York

USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land Management. 1994. Record of Decision for Amendments to Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Planning Documents Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl; Standards and Guidelines for Management of Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Forest Related Species Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl.

VI. LIST OF APPENDICES

A. Survey Strategy 2 Field Form (Required Form)

B. Spatial documentation of extent of survey

C. Field forms for Survey and Manage Cryptogams (Optional Forms)

Field methods, data dictionary, epiphyte abundance rating system

D. Cryptogam packet form for voucher specimens