Informal rules dictate rescue of wildflowers

Being prepared is key to being effective.

NEW MARKET, Va. (AP) — Insensitive behavior such as poaching, gate crashing and trespassing tend to cancel out whatever goodwill is cultivated by plant rescue teams. That means not going wild while working in privately owned woodlots or meadows that are destined for development.

Here are some informal rules regarding wildflower rescue in critical habitat:

USecure written landowner permission before entering any plant-rich properties and then carry it with you as you dig.

UConfine your search only to those areas marked for construction. “Stay within the (surveyor) stakes,” said Jane Pausch, who operates Wildflower Rescue of MN, near Northfield, Minn. “Be respectful and do it right. Don’t become just another plant poacher out there.”

U“It might help gain access if you’re willing to sign a liability waiver,” said Alan Mizeras, coordinator of the Native Plant Rescue Group of Henderson County (North Carolina). “Most of us have our own insurance coverage. Sometimes landowners get a little nervous about the possibility of people getting hurt while collecting.”

UDo not “rescue” any endangered or threatened plant for the purpose of personal profit. “We do not sell this stuff,” Mizeras said. “We won’t tolerate that. We don’t do rescue for personal gain. Among other things, that would make it harder if the word got our for us to work with other landowners.”

UReduce transplant shock. Relocate rescued wildflowers in places mimicking their natural habitat and ensure that they have enough water and nurturing to make it through one or more growing seasons in their new locations.

UKnow something about the fragility of the plants you’re trying to save and be aware of any laws protecting them. Document every step you take in their care to help ensure that the next batch you plant or propagate has an even better chance at survival.

UThe most important rule pertaining to wildflower gathering is “do no harm.” Do not remove every plant within reach. Leave some colonies behind with the expectation they can continue to be naturally occurring at or near their original sites.