A rare flower that grows only in a few spots in Carson and Eagle valleys may warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The Carson Valley monkeyflower lives in Carson City and Douglas County and has reportedly lost half its range due to urban sprawl and development.
“The Fish and Wildlife Service found substantial evidence that protection may be warranted and will advance the species to a full review for endangered species status,” according to officials.
“The Endangered Species Act is the most powerful law in the world at preventing extinction, and we’re going to keep pressing this issue until Nevada’s special critters get the protections they need,” said Center for Biological Diversity Great Basin Director Patrick Donnelly.
Typically found in the foothills and Valleys from Red Rocks north of Reno to Dresslerville, the few-inch tall plant has a yellow flower with a large red spot on the lower petal and narrow green leaves, according to the Nevada Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.
The plant grows in sandy soils and is sometimes found near desert peach.
One habitat for the monkeyflower is located just east of the Gardnerville Ranchos, according to a map included in the petition.