Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population) Recovery Strategy
This document is the recovery strategy for Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population), a species of plant at risk in Ontario.
Ontario Recovery Strategy Series
Photo: Allen Woodliffe
2016
About the Ontario recovery strategy series
This series presents the collection of recovery strategies that are prepared or adopted as advice to the Province of Ontario on the recommended approach to recover species at risk. The Province ensures the preparation of recovery strategies to meet its commitments to recover species at risk under the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) and the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada.
What is recovery?
Recovery of species at risk is the process by which the decline of an endangered, threatened, or extirpated species is arrested or reversed, and threats are removed or reduced to improve the likelihood of a species’ persistence in the wild.
What is a recovery strategy?
Under the ESA a recovery strategy provides the best available scientific knowledge on what is required to achieve recovery of a species. A recovery strategy outlines the habitat needs and the threats to the survival and recovery of the species. It also makes recommendations on the objectives for protection and recovery, the approaches to achieve those objectives, and the area that should be considered in the development of a habitat regulation. Sections 11 to 15 of the ESA outline the required content and timelines for developing recovery strategies published in this series.
Recovery strategies are required to be prepared for endangered and threatened species within one or two years respectively of the species being added to the Species at Risk in Ontario list. Recovery strategies are required to be prepared for extirpated species only if reintroduction is considered feasible.
What’s next?
Nine months after the completion of a recovery strategy a government response statement will be published which summarizes the actions that the Government of Ontario intends to take in response to the strategy. The implementation of recovery strategies depends on the continued cooperation and actions of government agencies, individuals, communities, land users, and conservationists.
For more information:
To learn more about species at risk recovery in Ontario, please visit the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Species at Risk webpage at: www.ontario.ca/speciesatrisk
Recommended citation
Bowles, J.M. 2016. Recovery strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) – Great Lakes Plains population in Ontario. Ontario Recovery Strategy Series. Prepared for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Peterborough, Ontario. v + 7 pp. + Appendix iv + 15 pp. Adoption of the Recovery Strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) in Canada (Environment Canada 2012).
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Content (excluding the cover illustration) may be used without permission, with appropriate credit to the source.
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Author
Jane M. Bowles – Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario
Acknowledgments
The Ministry gratefully acknowledges the passion and excellent work of the late Jane Bowles, who regrettably passed away on July 27, 2013.
Clint Jacobs, Walpole Island Heritage Centre provided wisdom and valuable insights into the development of this report. John C. Semple, Michael Oldham, Allen Woodliffe and Amelia Argue provided comments and technical information. Their help is gratefully acknowledged.
Declaration
The recovery strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population) was developed in accordance with the requirements of the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA). This recovery strategy has been prepared as advice to the Government of Ontario, other responsible jurisdictions and the many different constituencies that may be involved in recovering the species.
The recovery strategy does not necessarily represent the views of all of the individuals who provided advice or contributed to its preparation, or the official positions of the organizations with which the individuals are associated.
The goals, objectives and recovery approaches identified in the strategy are based on the best available knowledge and are subject to revision as new information becomes available. Implementation of this strategy is subject to appropriations, priorities and budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations.
Success in the recovery of this species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in this strategy.
Responsible jurisdictions
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
Environment Canada – Canadian Wildlife Service, Ontario
Executive summary
The Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) requires the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry to ensure recovery strategies are prepared for all species listed as endangered or threatened on the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List. Under the ESA, a recovery strategy may incorporate all or part of an existing plan that relates to the species.
The Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) (Great Lakes Plains population) is listed as endangered on the SARO List. The species is also listed as endangered under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA). Environment Canada prepared the Recovery Strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) in Canada in 2012 to meet its requirements under the SARA. This recovery strategy is hereby adopted under the ESA. With the additions indicated below, the enclosed strategy meets all of the content requirements outlined in the ESA.
The only extant sites for Showy Goldenrod in Canada are in Ontario, at Walpole Island First Nation, which lies on the delta of the St. Clair River. Here, Showy Goldenrod occurs with a number of other goldenrod species in rare remnants of fresh to dry open tallgrass prairie and Black Oak (Quercus velutina) savannah on sandy loam and sandy clay loam soils. Most plants grow in habitats with partial shade, but some stands are in open areas. Fire is an important factor for maintaining the tallgrass prairie and savannah habitats in which Showy Goldenrod grows.
The minimum area for a viable population may include the area occupied by extant stands together with the extent of contiguous habitat of the same vegetation community type. The main features that have been documented for sites supporting known extant populations include: 1) open areas of Fresh to Moist Tallgrass Prairie with few or no trees (canopy cover less than 10%); and 2) areas of Dry Tallgrass Savannah and Dry Tallgrass Woodland where the canopy cover of deciduous trees, usually oak species, is more than 10 percent.
Walpole Island First Nation’s position is that it has never ceded or surrendered lands on the deltaic deposits at the mouth of the St. Clair River. In the opinion of the author, it is recommended that the government of Ontario not apply a habitat regulation for Showy Goldenrod on Walpole Island First Nation lands.
Adoption of federal recovery strategy
The Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) requires the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry to ensure recovery strategies are prepared for all species listed as endangered or threatened on the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List. Under the ESA, a recovery strategy may incorporate all or part of an existing plan that relates to the species.
The Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) (Great Lakes Plains population) is listed as endangered on the SARO List. The species is also listed as endangered under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA). Environment Canada prepared the Recovery Strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) (in Canada in 2012 to meet its requirements under the SARA. This recovery strategy is hereby adopted under the ESA. With the additions indicated below, the enclosed strategy meets all of the content requirements outlined in the ESA.
Species assessment and classification
Common name: Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population)
Scientific name: Solidago speciosa
SARO list classification: Endangered
SARO list history: Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population): Endangered (2011), Showy Goldenrod: Endangered (2008), Endangered – Not Regulated (2004)
COSEWIC assessment history: Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population): Endangered (2010), Showy Goldenrod: Endangered (2000, 1999)
SARA Schedule 1: Endangered (2003)
Conservation status rankings: GRANK: G5, NRANK: N1, SRANK: S1
The glossary provides definitions for technical terms, including the abbreviations above.
Area for consideration in developing a habitat regulation
Under the ESA, a recovery strategy must include a recommendation to the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry on the area that should be considered in developing a habitat regulation. A habitat regulation is a legal instrument that prescribes an area that will be protected as the habitat of the species. The recommendation provided below will be one of many sources considered by the Minister, including information that may become newly available following completion of the recovery strategy, when developing the habitat regulation for this species.
Throughout its global range Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) occurs on sandy soils in open areas or under partial shade (Semple pers. comm. 2012). The only extant sites for Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population) in Canada are in Ontario, at Walpole Island First Nation, which lies on the delta of the St. Clair River. Here, Showy Goldenrod occurs with a number of other goldenrod species in rare remnants of fresh to dry open tallgrass prairie and Black Oak (Quercus velutina) savannah on sandy loam and sandy clay loam soils. Most plants grow in habitats with partial shade, but some stands are in open areas. Canopy closure appears to affect the species because declines have been noted in more heavily treed areas and no plants have been found in heavily shaded sites (COSEWIC 2010, Bowles pers. obs.).
The Ecological Land Classification (ELC) (Lee et al. 1998) Ecosites for the habitat are Dry Tallgrass Prairie, Fresh-Moist Tallgrass Prairie, Dry Tallgrass Savannah and Fresh-Moist Tallgrass Savannah. Ecological Land Classification is not employed in the habitat description below. Ecological Land Classification Community Class, Community Series, Ecosite and Vegetation Type provide only a broad description of the habitat in which Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population) occurs on Walpole Island First Nation and are not of sufficient detail to describe the specific vegetation community type.
Taxa always found associated with Showy Goldenrod at all sites in the two known extant populations include Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), Early Goldenrod (Solidago juncea), Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), Matted Panicgrass (Dichanthelium acuminatum subsp. implicatum) and Heath Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides). Other common associates include Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima), Northern Bedstraw (Galium boreale), Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea), Bastard Toadflax (Comandra umbellata), Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. lateriflorum) Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum), Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia) and Tall Coreopsis (Coreopsis tripteris) (Walpole Island Heritage Centre, unpublished data, Bowles pers. obs. 2005).
Fire is an important factor for maintaining the tallgrass prairie and savannah habitats in which Showy Goldenrod grows. In sites with recent (since 2007) fires, plants were more vigorous and had more flowering stems than plants in a site with no recent fire history. Shading by trees and by shrub species such as Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) may have contributed to the lack of vigour in unburned sites (Bowles pers. obs. 2003–2008). Historical sites where former prairies have become forest (canopy cover >60%) no longer support Showy Goldenrod.
Walpole Island First Nation’s position is that it has never ceded or surrendered lands on the deltaic deposits at the mouth of the St. Clair River. In the opinion of the author, it is recommended that the government of Ontario not apply a habitat regulation for White Prairie Gentian on Walpole Island First Nation lands. However, the following description could provide a helpful basis for identifying precise areas of habitat and to facilitate local stewardship efforts.
The extent of apparently suitable habitat in Ontario is much greater than the area actually occupied by extant stands of Showy Goldenrod. Since Showy Goldenrod grows in several different prairie and savannah habitats, it is unclear what inherent or environmental factors, other than shading, limit its distribution within or across sites. The minimum area for a viable population may include the area occupied by extant stands together with the extent of contiguous habitat of the same vegetation community type (e.g., similar canopy cover, species assemblage and moisture regime). The following habitat descriptions summarize the main features that have been documented for sites supporting known extant populations (Walpole Island Heritage Centre, unpublished data, Bowles pers. obs. 2005).
Fresh to moist tallgrass prairie:
Open areas with few or no trees (canopy cover less than 10%). Associated species include Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), Indiangrass, Early Goldenrod, Tall Goldenrod, Bergamot, Matted Panicgrass and Heath Aster, Sky Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum oolentangiense), Dense Blazing-star (Liatris spicata), Virginia Mountain-mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum), Rough Blazing-star (Liatris aspera), Round-headed Bush-clover (Lespedeza capitata) and Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca).
Dry tallgrass savannah and dry tallgrass woodland:
Areas where the canopy cover of deciduous trees is more than 10 percent. Trees may be mixed, but usually include Black Oak (Quercus velutina), White Oak (Q. alba) and Red Oak (Q. rubra). Shrubs of Staghorn Sumac are often present. Ground layer species associates include Big Bluestem, Tall Goldenrod, Early Goldenrod, Bracken Fern, Bergamot, Matted Panicgrass, Heath Aster, Tall Coreopsis, Bastard Toadflax and Wild Grape.
Glossary
Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC): The committee established under section 14 of the Species at Risk Act that is responsible for assessing and classifying species at risk in Canada.
Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO): The committee established under section 3 of the Endangered Species Act, 2007 that is responsible for assessing and classifying species at risk in Ontario.
Conservation status rank: A rank assigned to a species or ecological community that primarily conveys the degree of rarity of the species or community at the global (G), national (N) or subnational (S) level. These ranks, termed G-rank, N-rank and S-rank, are not legal designations. Ranks are determined by NatureServe and, in the case of Ontario’s S-rank, by Ontario’s Natural Heritage Information Centre. The conservation status of a species or ecosystem is designated by a number from 1 to 5, preceded by the letter G, N or S reflecting the appropriate geographic scale of the assessment. The numbers mean the following:
1 = critically imperilled
2 = imperilled
3 = vulnerable
4 = apparently secure
5 = secure
NR = not yet ranked
Ecological Land Classification (ELC): An organizational framework designed to establish a consistent, wide-scale approach to ecosystem description. A first approximation for ELC in southern Ontario was established in 1998 (Lee et al. 1998).
Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA): The provincial legislation that provides protection to species at risk in Ontario.
Extant: Still existing or surviving. Used in biology to describe species or populations that still exist.
Loam: Soil that is made up of relatively even amounts of sand, silt and clay.
Savannah: A vegetation community with scattered trees. The canopy cover usually falls between 10 to 35 percent. A Tallgrass Savannah contains understory plants with prairie affinity and falls on a continuum between Tallgrass Prairie and Tallgrass Woodland in the extent of canopy cover.
Species at Risk Act (SARA): The federal legislation that provides protection to species at risk in Canada. This act establishes Schedule 1 as the legal list of wildlife species at risk. Schedules 2 and 3 contain lists of species that at the time the Act came into force needed to be reassessed. After species on Schedule 2 and 3 are reassessed and found to be at risk, they undergo the SARA listing process to be included in Schedule 1.
Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List: The regulation made under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, 2007 that provides the official status classification of species at risk in Ontario. This list was first published in 2004 as a policy and became a regulation in 2008.
Taxon (plural taxa): A taxonomic unit or entity in a biological system of classification, for example; a family, genus, species, sub-species or variety.
Viable: Capable of living; in conservation biology, a population of a species that can survive in the wild.
Woodland: A vegetation community with trees generally forming more than 35 percent, but less than 60 percent, canopy cover.
References
COSEWIC. 2010. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Showy Goldenrod Solidago speciosa (Great Lakes Plains and Boreal Populations) in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. xiv + 23 pp.
Semple, J.C., pers. comm. 2012. E-mail correspondence with J.M. Bowles. November 2012. Professor Emeritus and Adjunct Professor, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig, and S. McMurray. 1998. Ecological land classification for southern Ontario: first approximation and its application. SCSS Field Guide FG-02. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch, North Bay, Ontario.
Appendix 1. Recovery strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) in Canada – 2012
Species at Risk Act
Recovery Strategy Series
Document information
Recovery strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) in Canada – 2012
Recommended citation:
Environment Canada. 2012. Recovery Strategy for the Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Environment Canada, Ottawa. iv + 15 pp.
For copies of the recovery strategy, or for additional information on species at risk, including COSEWIC Status Reports, residence descriptions, action plans, and other related recovery documents, please visit the Species at Risk (SAR) Public Registry.
Cover illustration: © Gary Allen
Également disponible en français sous le titre
« Programme de rétablissement de la verge d’or voyante (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) au Canada »
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of the Environment, 2012. All rights reserved.
ISBN 978-1-100-19832-3
Catalogue no. En3-4/123-2012E-PDF
Content (excluding the illustrations) may be used without permission, with appropriate credit to the source.
Preface
The federal, provincial, and territorial government signatories under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk (1996) agreed to establish complementary legislation and programs that provide for effective protection of species at risk throughout Canada. Under the Species at Risk Act (S.C. 2002, c.29) (SARA), the federal competent ministers are responsible for the preparation of recovery strategies for listed Extirpated, Endangered, and Threatened species and are required to report on progress within five years.
The Minister of the Environment is the competent minister for the recovery of the Showy Goldenrod and has prepared this strategy, as per section 37 of SARA. It has been prepared in cooperation with the Government of Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources.
Success in the recovery of this species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in this strategy and will not be achieved by Environment Canada, or any other jurisdiction alone. All Canadians are invited to join in supporting and implementing this strategy for the benefit of the Showy Goldenrod and Canadian society as a whole.
This recovery strategy will be followed by one or more action plans that will provide information on recovery measures to be taken by Environment Canada and other jurisdictions and/or organizations involved in the conservation of the species. Implementation of this strategy is subject to appropriations, priorities, and budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations.
Acknowledgments
Earlier drafts of this Recovery Strategy were prepared by Dr. Jane Bowles in cooperation with the Walpole Island Ecosystem Recovery Team, Tallgrass Communities Recovery Team, and Environment Canada.
Angela McConnell, Christina Rohe, Barbara Slezak, Kathy St. Laurent, Lesley Dunn and Madeline Austen of Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service - Ontario, Wendy Dunford of Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service – National Capital Region, Wasyl Bakowsky, Vivian Brownell, Kate Lillicrap, Mike Oldham, Eric Snyder and Allen Woodliffe of Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Clint Jacobs and Jared Macbeth of the Walpole Island Heritage Centre all reviewed and provided comments and advice during development of this document.
Executive summary
Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) is a large perennial herb with a range spread sparsely throughout much of the eastern United States and the Central Great Plains. This species grows mainly on sandy soils in open areas or under partial shade. Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) is listed as Endangered on Schedule 1 of the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA).
In Canada, Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) has only been found on the Walpole Island First Nation in the St. Clair River delta, southwestern Ontario where two extant populations currently exist. Two historic populations of the rigidiuscula variety from areas in Ontario, are considered extirpated; one in Lambton County and one in Perth County.
A small population of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) was recently discovered northwest of Kenora, Ontario; the variety has not been named though it has been determined not to be the rigidiuscula variety. In November 2010, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) assessed this Boreal population of Showy Goldenrod as threatened and occurrences in southwestern Ontario (i.e., the Great Lakes Plains population) as endangered. There are also two accounts of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) of undetermined variety/population,recorded for Manitoba that require investigation. This recovery strategy addresses only the Great Lakes Plains population of Showy Goldenrod. Should the Boreal population of Showy Goldenrod be added to Schedule 1 of SARA a separate recovery strategy will be prepared.
Threats identified to the Canadian populations of Showy Goldenrod, Great Lakes Plains population, include but are not limited to: habitat loss or degradation, changes to natural processes, invasive species, disturbance from recreational activities and seed predation. The species is also limited by its small population size and geographically-isolated population. Given that the species is found at the northern extent of its range and has a naturally limited distribution in Canada, it will likely always be vulnerable to anthropogenic and natural stressors.
Although there are unknowns regarding the feasibility of recovery, in keeping with the precautionary principle, a full recovery strategy has been prepared as would be done when recovery is determined to be feasible. The population and distribution objective is to maintain the current abundance and distribution of the two extant Canadian Showy Goldenrod, Great Lakes Plains populations.
The broad strategies to recovery include but are not limited to: protection, conservation and management of habitat, monitoring and assessment of extant population(s), outreach and education and addressing biological knowledge gaps.
Critical habitat for this species is not identified at this time. Once adequate information is obtained, critical habitat will be identified and may be described within an area-based, multi–species at risk action plan developed in collaboration with the Walpole Island First Nation. One or more such action plans will be completed for Showy Goldenrod, Great Lakes Plains population, by December 2016.
Recovery feasibility summary
Based on the following four criteria outlined by the Government of Canada (2009), there are unknowns regarding the feasibility of recovery of the Showy Goldenrod, Great Lakes Plains population. Therefore, in keeping with the precautionary principle, a full recovery strategy has been prepared as would be done when recovery is determined to be feasible. It may not be possible to mitigate various threats to the species.
- Individuals of the wildlife species that are capable of reproduction are available now or in the foreseeable future to sustain the population or improve its abundance.
Yes. There are individuals capable of reproduction within the Canadian range. Individuals are also available in the United States; however, it is unknown if these populations could be used to sustain the Canadian population or improve its abundance.
- Sufficient suitable habitat is available to support the species or could be made available through habitat management or restoration.
Yes. Sufficient suitable habitat is currently available to support the Canadian population.
- The primary threats to the species or its habitat (including threats outside Canada) can be avoided or mitigated.
Unknown. Some threats can be avoided or mitigated through recovery actions, such as changes to natural processes, habitat loss or degradation and disturbance from recreational activities. However, it is unknown if threats such as the spread of invasive species and seed predation can be mitigated to the extent required to sustain a viable population within Canada.
- Recovery techniques exist to achieve the population and distribution objectives or can be expected to be developed within a reasonable timeframe.
Yes. The major threat for Showy Goldenrod, Great Lakes Plains population, is the loss of the specialized tallgrass prairie and savanna habitat in which it occurs. Some occupied Showy Goldenrod habitat has been secured through habitat acquisition initiatives and the rate of habitat conversion has been reduced at Walpole Island First Nation due to efforts by the Walpole Island Heritage Centre (COSEWIC, 2009). There are some recovery techniques (i.e., prescribed burning) which would be effective in reducing the encroachment of woody species and controlling some invasive species. Recovery techniques to reduce the impacts and spread of invasive species in the long-term may require further investigation.
COSEWIC * Species assessment information
Date of Assessment: November 2010
Common Name (population): Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population)
Scientific Name: Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula
COSEWIC Status: Endangered
Reason for designation: Two small populations of this showy perennial occur in remnant tallgrass prairie habitats in southwestern Ontario. Substantial declines in the number of mature individuals and the quality of habitat have been recorded and are projected to continue. Limiting factors include the encroachment of woody plants due to the lack of regular burning of the prairie habitats and other impacts such as the spread of invasive exotic plants, and seed predation that reduces the species' ability to reproduce.
Canadian occurrence: Ontario
COSEWIC Status history: The species was considered a single unit and designated Endangered in April 1999. Status re-examined and confirmed in May 2000. Split into two populations in November 2010. The Great Lakes Plains population was designated Endangered in November 2010.
* COSEWIC -- Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada
Species status information
The global conservation rank for Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) is secure[1] (G5) while the species variety (var. rigidiuscula) taxon is apparently secure[2] (T4) (NatureServe, 2010). In the United States, Showy Goldenrod is spread sparsely throughout much of the eastern and central Great Plains and the national conservation status is currently unranked[3] (NNR) (NatureServe, 2010, Appendix B). In Canada, Showy Goldenrod (which hereafter, unless otherwise noted, refers to the rigidiuscula variety, Great Lakes Plains population) is found only in the province of Ontario; the national and subnational conservation ranks are critically imperilled[4] (N1 and S1, respectively) (NatureServe, 2010).
Showy Goldenrod is listed as Endangered[5] on Schedule 1 of the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA). In Ontario, the Showy Goldenrod is listed as Endangered[6] under the provincial Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA).
The percentage of the global range found in Canada is estimated to be less than 1%. Showy Goldenrod distribution was historically, and is currently, very restricted, occurring at the northern edge of its North American range.
Species information
Species description
Showy Goldenrod is a large perennial herb with large, toothed, egg-shaped lower leaves and much smaller more smooth-edged upper leaves. There are no basal leaves. The erect stems of the plant grow from a woody base to reach a height of 60 cm to 150 cm (Zhang et al., 1999). Several flowering stems may grow from one base. Flowering occurs from late September to early October. The showy flower cluster is cylindrical, consisting of many small bright yellow heads. Unlike many goldenrods, Showy Goldenrod’s bracts of flowers are not spreading (Zhang et al., 1999).
Population and distribution
Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) ranges globally from Ontario, Canada throughout much of the eastern United States and the central Great Plains (Figure 1). The variety rigidiuscula is found in oak savannas and tallgrass prairie throughout this range (Gleason and Cronquist, 1963).
In Canada, Zhang et al. (1999) reported six populations of this variety of Showy Goldenrod, all in the province of Ontario. There are currently two confirmed extant populations that exist on the Walpole Island First Nation, southwestern Ontario (Figure 2). The two populations are spread over a few prairie/savanna remnants[7] and surveys performed in 2003 indicated that the two populations contained 1,300 plants (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008). Three of the six original populations, two from the Walpole Island First Nation and one from Port Franks (Lambton County), are likely extirpated; extirpation may have been caused by mowing, conversion of land for agriculture and residential development, respectively (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008). The other documented population, in Perth County, is considered extirpated probably due to development (i.e., commercial and industrial) (Zhang et al., 1999). The official status for three of the six populations (Port Franks and the two unconfirmed Walpole Island First Nation populations), is not confirmed (currently classified by COSEWIC as ‘likely extirpated’).
In 2005, a small population of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) of an unnamed variety was found northwest of Kenora, Ontario; the variety has been determined to not be that of the rigidiuscula variety(A. A. Reznicek, pers. comm.). This new variety, referred to as the Boreal population, has recently been assessed by COSEWIC as a separate designatable unit (i.e., species) (T. Aniskowicz, pers. comm. 2010). The assessment of the new variety resulted in a COSEWIC status of Threatened[8] and its eligibility for inclusion on Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act is under consideration.
There are two accounts of potential observations of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) in Manitoba. One account, by Lowe (1943), near Waugh, Manitoba was originally discounted by Scoggan (1957) due to lack of evidence. In light of subsequent reports from nearby areas (i.e., Kenora and Winnipeg), this account should be reconsidered. Another potential account south of Winnipeg, Manitoba was reported in 1996 by Bruce Ford of the University of Manitoba Herbarium. The specimen collected from this site is currently being examined to determine the species and/or variety (B. Ford, pers. comm. 2010). Subsequent visits to the site did not relocate the species and much of the open habitat has since been planted with Christmas trees (B. Ford, pers. comm. 2010).
Figure 1: North American Distribution of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) (Modified from: Zhang et al., 1998).
Figure 2: Canadian Distribution of Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) (Environment Canada, 2010).
Needs of the Showy Goldenrod
Throughout its global range this variety of Showy Goldenrod occurs on sandy soils in open areas or under partial shade.
On the Walpole Island First Nation in the St. Clair River delta, the habitat of the Showy Goldenrod occurs with a number of other goldenrod species in rare remnants of mesic[9] to dry open tallgrass prairie and Black Oak (Quercus velutina) savanna. Most plants have been located in habitats with partial shade, but have also been found in open areas. Canopy closure appears to affect the species because plants have not been found in heavily shaded sites.
Showy Goldenrod reproduces by seed. Some vegetative reproduction occurs through the formation of clones from the parent plant (Zhang et al., 1999). Pollination primarily occurs by insects and the seeds are likely wind dispersed (Zhang et al., 1999). Seeds from wild plants germinate easily and grow well under cultivation. However, plants grown ex situ in an experimental bed, and visited regularly by bumble bees did not set seed (J. Bowles, personal observation, 2007).
Biological limiting factors
Since Showy Goldenrod grows in several different prairie and savanna habitats on Walpole Island First Nation, it is unclear what factors are limiting its distribution within or across sites since it sets viable, windborne seeds that germinate easily (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008). Relatively small, geographically-isolated populations are prone to loss of genetic diversity and are at greater risk of being extirpated by stochastic events. Population recruitment may be limited by natural factors, such as the conditions existing at the northern limit of the species’ range and seed predation. Canopy closure appears to affect the species, since plants are not found in heavily shaded sites (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008).
Threats
Threat assessment
Table 1. Threat assessment table
*Habitat loss or degradation
| Threat | Level of concern1 | Extent | Occurrence | Frequency | Severity2 | Causal certainty3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural expansion | High | Widespread | Historic/ Current | Recurrent | High | Medium |
| Housing development | Medium | Localized | Historic/ Current | Recurrent | High | Medium |
| Landscaping (e.g., mowing) | Medium | Localized | Historic/ Current | Seasonal | High | Medium |
| Sand extraction | Medium | Localized | Historic/ Current | Recurrent | Moderate/ High | High |
* Changes in ecological dynamics or natural processes
| Threat | Level of concern1 | Extent | Occurrence | Frequency | Severity2 | Causal certainty3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alteration of fire regime (e.g., vegetation overgrowth) | High | Widespread | Current | Seasonal | High | High |
* Exotic, invasive, or introduced species/genome
| Threat | Level of concern1 | Extent | Occurrence | Frequency | Severity2 | Causal certainty3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| European Common Reed (Phragmites australis ssp. australis) | Medium | Widespread | Anticipated | Seasonal | Unknown | Low |
| Sweet White Clover (Melilotus alba) | Medium | Widespread | Anticipated | Seasonal | Unknown | Low |
| Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) | Low-Medium | Widespread | Anticipated | Seasonal | Unknown | Low |
* Disturbance or harm
| Threat | Level of concern1 | Extent | Occurrence | Frequency | Severity2 | Causal certainty3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recreational activities: incidental harm (e.g., trampling) | Medium-High | Widespread | Current | Continuous | High | High |
* Natural processes or activities
| Threat | Level of concern1 | Extent | Occurrence | Frequency | Severity2 | Causal certainty3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seed predation (unknown species of Coleophora moth) | Low-Medium | Widespread | Current | Seasonal | Unknown | Medium |
1 Level of Concern: signifies that managing the threat is of (high, medium or low) concern for the recovery of the species, consistent with the population and distribution objectives. This criterion considers the assessment of all the information in the table).
2 Severity: reflects the population–level effect (High: very large population–level effect, Moderate, Low, Unknown).
3 Causal certainty: reflects the degree of evidence that is known for the threat (High: available evidence strongly links the threat to stresses on population viability; Medium: there is a correlation between the threat and population viability e.g. expert opinion; Low: the threat is assumed or plausible).
* Threat categories are listed in order of decreasing significance.
Description of threats
Habitat loss or degradation
Habitat loss or degradation through housing development, agricultural expansion, landscaping and sand extraction continues to threaten the Showy Goldenrod. On Walpole Island First Nation, housing construction has increased in response to critical housing shortages (Bowles, 2005). Sites where habitat has been destroyed or severely altered through housing construction, agricultural conversion and industrial development are no longer capable of supporting the species or may have caused local extirpations (Zhang et al., 1999).
Changes in ecological dynamics or natural processes
Showy Goldenrod requires areas of minimal to no shading. Suppression of fire can limit habitat by allowing trees and shrubs to grow and eventually shade out the species. The frequency of fire on Walpole Island First Nation is declining, mainly due to the pressure to control fire to protect housing and development; many prairie and savanna habitats are converting to woodlands (Waldron, 2001). Based on interpretation of air photos from 1972 and 1998, it is estimated that prairies at Walpole Island have been reduced from about 730 ha to about 470 ha, a loss of 36% (Crow et al., 2003). Some of this is a result of conversion to agriculture and housing, but most is due to encroachment by forest and woodland in the absence of regular fires (Bowles, 2005). The loss of oak savanna habitats on Walpole Island First Nation has been mostly attributable to closing in of the canopy (Crow et al., 2003). Conversely, a late spring fire has appeared to reduce the number of plants at one site (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008).
Exotic, invasive, or introduced species/genome
Invasive species such as European Common Reed, Black Locust and White Sweet Clover are invading many prairie habitats on Walpole Island First Nation (Bowles, 2005). European Common Reed, especially, is expanding rapidly in wetter prairies. Invasive species can out-compete or shade Showy Goldenrod plants, promote a decline in vigor resulting in poor growth and lower seed production and potentially contribute to loss of germination sites.
Disturbance or harm
Pedestrian and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail use can result in direct damage to individual plants, through trampling and compaction of the soil making potential habitat unsuitable.
Natural processes or activities
The developing seeds of the Showy Goldenrod are predated by the larvae of at least one unidentified species of Coleophora moth. Some Coleophora species require specific host plants. Mammoliti (2006) studied infestation by the Coleophora of Showy Goldenrod on the Walpole Island First Nation (Walpole Island Heritage Centre, 2006). He found that Coleophora can affect up to 97% of inflorescences[10], but the proportion of damaged seeds varied from about 88% to less than 40% across different sites. Even flower heads that are not predated may be covered in a web created by the insect which might inhibit pollination, further reducing production of viable seed. Consistently poor seed set over several years could lead to declines in recruitment and eventual decline of the species.
Sallabanks and Courtney (1992) suggest that high rates of seed predation in perennial species one year may not affect long-term recruitment and population size because conditions (e.g., habitat and soil conditions) existing in years of successful recruitment are more important. In Canada, seed predation should be considered a threat given Showy Goldenrod’s limited abundance and distribution.
Population and distribution objectives
The population and distribution objective is to maintain the current abundance and distribution of the two extant Canadian populations. The species was historically (100 years ago) more widespread but there is little opportunity for re-introduction into formerly occupied range due to extensive land-use change (i.e., conversion to agriculture). Showy Goldenrod distribution was historically, and is currently, very restricted, occurring at the northern edge of its North American range.
Broad strategies and general approaches to meet objectives
Actions already completed or currently underway
The Walpole Island Heritage Centre has monitored populations of Showy Goldenrod. A complete census of all known plants was completed in a one-year study in 2003 (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008). Efforts by the Walpole Island Heritage Centre to acquire and protect habitat has been undertaken and has resulted in the reduction of the rate of conversion of prairie and savanna habitat (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008; COSEWIC, 2009).
A small number of seeds were collected from plants on the Walpole Island First Nation in 2006 and were planted in greenhouses and experimental plots at the University of Western Ontario (UWO). Several plants have been returned to a demonstration garden on the Walpole Island First Nation and a small ex situ population is retained for study at UWO (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008). A study to attempt to identify the Coleophora moth predating Showy Goldenrod seeds was undertaken by the UWO (Mammoliti, 2006).
Recovery actions described in the Draft Walpole Island Ecosystem Recovery Strategy (Bowles, 2005) include raising awareness in the community about species at risk. Pamphlets, calendars, newsletter articles, posters and other promotional material have been used to raise awareness.
The Walpole Island First Nation is currently developing an ecosystem protection plan based on the community’s traditional ecological knowledge (TEK).
Strategic direction for recovery
Table 2. Recovery planning table
| Threat or limitation | Priority | Broad strategy to recovery | General description of research and management approaches |
|---|---|---|---|
| All threats | High | Protect, conserve and manage habitat |
|
| All threats | High | Monitor/assess populations |
|
| All threats | Medium | Outreach and education |
|
| Knowledge Gaps | Medium | Conduct research and gather and transfer knowledge |
|
Critical habitat
Identification of the species’ critical habitat
At this time, the information required to identify critical habitat for the Showy Goldenrod is not available to Environment Canada. Although the continued presence of Showy Goldenrod populations has been confirmed (J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008), the specific data required to be able to identify critical habitat sites (i.e., location and extent of population, biophysical attributes of the habitat), are not yet available to Environment Canada. The activities to obtain the required information are outlined in the schedule of studies (Table 3).
Showy Goldenrod is typically known to be associated with areas of mesic to dry open tallgrass prairie and Black Oak savanna. Given the known historic and current threats to the species, confirmation of the location and extent of Showy Goldenrod populations is required for the identification of critical habitat. Evidence exists that indicates certain threats may have impacted portions of the population (Zhang et al., 1999; J. Bowles, unpublished report, 2008) during the elapsed time period from when location data is available to Environment Canada (ca. 1990). There is also a need to confirm the biophysical habitat attributes required by the species, to confirm the extent of these attributes where the population occurs (e.g., using Ecological Land Classification (Lee et al., 1998)), and to confirm the extent of the habitat required to meet the population and distribution objective.
Once adequate information is obtained, critical habitat will be identified and may be described within an area-based multi-species at risk action plan developed in collaboration with the Walpole Island First Nation.
Schedule of studies to identify critical habitat
Measuring progress
The performance indicators presented below provide a way to define and measure progress toward achieving the population and distribution objectives. Specific progress towards implementing the recovery strategy will be measured against indicators outlined in subsequent action plans.
Every five years, success of recovery strategy implementation will be measured against the following performance indicators:
- the current Canadian abundance has not decreased, and
- the current Canadian distribution has not decreased.
Statement on action plans
One or more action plans will be completed for Showy Goldenrod by December 2017. Any such action plan is expected to include an area-based, multi-species approach and be prepared in collaboration with the Walpole Island First Nation.
References
Aniskowicz, T. 2010. Correspondence with M. Austen. December 2010. Canadian Wildlife Service – National Capital Region, Gatineau, QC.
Bowles, J.M. 2005. Draft Walpole Island ecosystem recovery strategy. Walpole Island Heritage Centre, Environment Canada and The Walpole Island Recovery Team.
Bowles, J.M. 2008. Unpublished report. Draft Recovery Strategy for the Showy Goldenrod in Canada. Prepared for Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service – Ontario. Toronto, Ontario. 11 pp.
COSEWIC. 2009. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the pink milkwort Polygala incarnata in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa, Ontario. 24 pp.
Crow, C., J. Demelo, J. Hayes, J. Wells and T. Hundey. 2003. Walpole Island Land Use change 1972-1998. Unpublished class report, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario.
Environment Canada, 2010. Species profile: showy goldenrod Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula. Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario.
Ford, B. 2010. E-mail correspondence to C. Rohe. November 2010. Professor and Curator, University of Manitoba Herbarium, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Gleason, H.A. and A. Cronquist. 1963. Manual of Vascular Plants of Northeastern United States and Adjacent Canada. D. van Nostrand Company, New York. 810 pp.
Government of Canada. 2009. Species at Risk Act Policies. Environment Canada. 38 pp.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig, and S. McMurray. 1998. Ecological land classification for southern Ontario: first approximation and its application. SCSS Field Guide FG-02. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch, North Bay, Ontario.
Lowe, C. A. 1943. List of flowering plants, ferns, club mosses, mosses and liverworts of Manitoba. Natural History Society of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba. 110 pp.
Mammoliti, P. 2006. Studies in seed predation of endangered showy goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) on Walpole Island First Nation. Unpublished Honours Thesis, Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario. 34 pp.
NatureServe. 2010. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Web site: [accessed November 2010]
Reznicek, A. A. Correspondence with W. Bakowsky. Curator of Vascular Plants, University Herbarium, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Sallabanks, R. and S.P. Courtney. 1992. Frugivory, seed predation and insect-vertebrate interactions. Annual Review Entomology 37: 377-400.
Scoggan, H. J. 1957. Flora of Manitoba. Bulletin No. 140, Biological Series No. 47. National Museum of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. 619 pp.
Waldron, G.E. 2001. Update COSEWIC status report on the white prairie gentian
Gentiana alba in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa, Ontario. 21 pp.
Walpole Island Heritage Centre. 2006. Walpole Island Heritage Centre News. Volume 4: Issue 5. March 2006. 6 pp.
Zhang, J.J., D.E. Stephenson, and J.C. Semple. 1998. Status Report on Species at Risk in Canada. Showy Goldenrod, Solidago speciosa Nuttall var. rigidiuscula Torrey & Gray (Asteraceae). Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa, Ontario. 1 - 22 pp.
Zhang, J.J., D.E. Stephenson and J.C. Semple. 1999 (in press). COSEWIC status report on the showy goldenrod Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula in Canada, in COSEWIC assessment and status report on the showy goldenrod Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa, Ontario. vi + 14 pp.
Appendix A: Effects on the environment and other species
A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is conducted on all SARA recovery planning documents, in accordance with the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals. The purpose of a SEA is to incorporate environmental considerations into the development of public policies, plans, and program proposals to support environmentally sound decision-making.
Recovery planning is intended to benefit species at risk and biodiversity in general. However, it is recognized that strategies may also inadvertently lead to environmental effects beyond the intended benefits. The planning process based on national guidelines directly incorporates consideration of all environmental effects, with a particular focus on possible impacts upon non–target species or habitats. The results of the SEA are incorporated directly into the strategy itself, but are also summarized below in this statement.
This recovery strategy will clearly benefit the environment by promoting the recovery of the Showy Goldenrod. Like other species of goldenrod, this plant appears to be an important source of pollen for bees, wasps, flies and other insects. A variety of insects use the flower clusters to roost. Because Showy Goldenrod flowers late in the season it may provide an important late season food source for bumble bees (Bombus spp.) and other insects. The potential for the strategy to inadvertently lead to adverse effects on other species was considered. The SEA concluded that this strategy will clearly benefit the environment and will not entail any significant adverse effects. The reader should refer to the following sections of the document in particular: Species Needs, Population and Distribution Objectives and Broad Strategies and General Approaches to Meet Objectives.
Appendix B: Subnational conservation ranks of Showy Goldenrod in the United States
| Global (G) rank | National (N) rank (United States) | Sub-national (S) rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa var. rigidiuscula) | G5T4 (Secure – common; widespread and abundant/Apparently Secure - uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors) | NNR (Unranked - nation or state/province conservation status not yet assessed) | Arkansas (SNR) Georgia (S1) Illinois (SNR) Indiana (SNR) Iowa (SNR) Kansas (SNR) Kentucky (SU) Michigan (SNR) Minnesota (SNR) Missouri (SNR) Nebraska (SNR) Ohio (SNR) Oklahoma (SNR) South Dakota (SNR) Tennessee (SNR) Texas (SNR) Wisconsin (SNR) |
S1: Critically Imperilled; SNR: Unranked; SU: Unrankable
1 common, widespread and abundant
2 uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors
3 a nation or state/province conservation status not yet assessed
4 critically imperilled in the jurisdiction because of extreme rarity or because of some factor(s) such as very steep declines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the jurisdiction
5 a wildlife species facing imminent extirpation or extinction
6 a species that lives in the wild in Ontario but is facing imminent extinction or extirpation
7 a remaining, usually small part
8 a wildlife species that is likely to become an endangered species if nothing is done to reverse the factors leading to its extirpation or extinction
9 relating or adapted to a moderately moist habitat
10 a group of flowers growing from a common stem, often in a characteristic arrangement. Also called flower cluster.
The recovery strategy for Showy Goldenrod (Great Lakes Plains population) is available in PDF format upon request. Please email PDF requests to recovery.planning@ontario.ca.