Molecular comparison of eastern and western populations using cpDNA (chloroplast DNA). The results are not complete and not published. The results tentatively support the speculation that the to populations are genetically distinct. (Casey Baldwin, Graduate Student at University of Idaho in Meinke 1998). Taxonomic investigation of eastern and western populations. Morphological, biological and habitat data support the separation of eastern and western populations into two distinct taxa, either separate species or subspecies. There were no significant or consistent differences between east and west populations in time of flowering and fruiting, and germination requirements. However, significant differences were found in reproductive output, mature fruit size, leaf biomass, tuber mass, tuber length, tuber color, timing of germination, and timing of spring growth. A total of 15-20 traits were compared using Principal Components Analysis (PCA), a statistical method used to evaluate quantitative and qualitative traits of taxonomic value. The researchers suggest that the east and west populations should be treated as separate subspecies or varieties (Meinke 1998). Re-introduction and conservation (Kim Roberts, Graduate research at Oregon State University). Germination trials at the Berry Botanic Garden in which the seed had been stored for approximately 10 years yielded between 0 and 40% germination depending on the treatment. When the seed had only been stored for one or two years, between 80 and 90% of seeds germinated depending on the treatment (BBG File).

Seeds have been collected from 8 locations in Douglas and Josephine Counties (all west of the Cascades). Seeds represent bulk collections (no separation of maternal lines). Seeds stored at The Berry Botanic Garden Seed Bank for Rare and Endangered Plants of the Pacific Northwest. Plants are being cultivated by seed in the greenhouse to develop large plants for introduction onto public (BLM) land by Oregon Department of Agriculture staff (Gisler, pers. comm.). Two new populations were introduced onto Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in 2001 by Oregon Department of Agriculture staff. Introduced populations will be monitored in coming years to determine success (Gisler, pers. comm.).

Habitat burning to reduce competition or pollinators (Meinke 1998). Habitat burning to reduce overcrowding and shading (Meinke 1998). Additional inventory of federal and state owned lands (Meinke 1998). Population reintroduction or augmentation. Plants can be started in the greenhouse and transplanted to the field (Meinke 1998). Purchase or land-trade agreements with private owners of the larger, more pristine populations (Meinke 1998). Determine if gene flow occurs between population centers. Determine if east and west populations are capable of interbreeding with each other. Further genetic studies to clarify relationship between east and west populations.

Collect and store genetically representative seed samples from populations across the range. Keep maternal lines separate when collecting seed. Determine long term viability of seeds under various storage conditions. Store seeds under appropriate conditions. Recollect seeds as necessary in order to maintain suitable numbers of viable seeds. Determine effective and efficient germination and propagation protocols.