Clay-loving wild buckwheat (Eriogonum pelinophilum) is a highly endangered plant found only on the Adobe Hills east of Delta and Montrose, Colorado.  This long-lived perennial is able to survive in a harsh environment, where few other plants do.  As dirt bike and ATV trails, suburban sprawl, and even a proposed highway expansion threaten this rare perennial, conservationists including Center for Native Ecosystem are racing to protect its remaining habitat.  In July 2006, Center for Native Ecosystems formally requested that the Fish and Wildlife Service update the habitat protections for several as-yet unsecured populations.  At the same time, Center for Native Ecosystems joined the Friends of the Colorado Natural Areas Program, Colorado Natural Heritage Program and The Nature Conservancy in an innovative effort to permanently protect the largest parcel of clay-loving wild buckwheat on private land.  Through this campaign we have purchased and protected the Wacker Ranch Natural Area through the Wild Buckwheat Conservation Fund.  This land purchase has ensured the preservation and stewardship of one of the most important populations of this endangered plant for years to come.


Clay-loving wild buckwheat images courtesy of J.L. Reveal.