Conservation Agreement and Strategy for Springsnails in Nevada and Utah

Authors: Chris Crookshanks, Jon Sjoberg, Jeri Sjoberg, Kevin Wheeler, John Wullschleger, Deb Koziol, Laurel Saito, Cynthis Tait, Eric Miskow, Sandra Brewer

Year: 2018

Abstract

There is an increasing concern and need for the conservation of springsnails and other endemic mollusks and for the unique spring and springbrook habitats on which they depend (Hershler et al 2014; Abele 2011). Nationwide, several of these species have been listed as endangered or threatened under provisions of the ESA; others are undergoing review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for possible future listing actions. These species can be particularly susceptible to localized threats such as water diversion, capping, groundwater pumping, invasive or exotic species, development, or trampling by ungulates. These threats can be addressed but development and implementation of consistent and appropriate strategies and actions are needed. Firm commitments from agencies and entities responsible for management of occupied sites, including private landowners, are also needed so management actions can be applied effectively. This poster describes the development of a comprehensive Conservation Agreement and Strategy (CAS) for springsnails and their associated habitats in Nevada and Utah. A Conservation Agreement (Agreement) between multiple agencies, stakeholders, and other interested parties was completed in 2017. The corresponding Strategy is currently being drafted and is expected to be completed in October, 2019. The conservation actions described in the Strategy are expected to lead to the protection and enhancement of these unique species and their associated habitats. In Utah and Nevada, Conservation Agreements and Strategies (CAS) have been an important conservation tool for more than 20 years and, in many cases, have resulted in precluding the need to list at-risk species.