Eisenhower State Park- Monarda Population

This location was of the utmost importance to me. This is due to an iNaturalist observation I found of the Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot). I have not been able to find Monarda species other than citriodora and punctata.

Approval for collection of any specimen at Eisenhower State Park is a long process. I knew this prior to my visit. You aren't even allowed to collect fallen logs for firewood. And removal of anything but trash is strictly prohibited.

Side note: The strict guidelines regarding removal of anything makes this a prime location for viewing cretaceous fossils.

My history of compliance consulting for charter schools helped develop my skills in interpreting regulations and finding forms. I typically research organizations prior to calling or going onsite. Thus, I showed up with the application for scientific plant permit in hand. I left a message for the Superintendent, Matt Harwood, the day prior.

Another side note: As I am frustrated with ticks this season I took extra precautions before my arrival. I added tea tree oil to my bath and then added some to my shoes, clothing and hat. I try to use natural products as often as possible. On this occasion, I was very self conscious of the tea tree oil and its potency. I was determined to come home tick free and I did. I have since bought a deet spray that I can spay on after I visit with management and before entering the wild. I refuse to pay the high commercial prices of organic products. I have also ordered a glass spray bottle to make up a tea tree spray.

Upon my arrival, Matt and I talked about what I would need to do to submit the permit and then looked at maps of the park to determine if the location of the M. fistulosa was underwater. Eisenhower State Park was suffering from the same flood issues as Hagerman Wildlife Refuge. And wouldn't you know, the location of the M. fistulosa was in a flooded area.

There were other observations on iNaturalist of the Monarda citriodora at Eisenhower State Park. Yet, only one location was not affected by the flooding. I have located several locations of large populations of Monarda citriodora. However, I decided to make observations of the mondarda while I was there...

...and at least explore and make some other observations too.

I'm still waiting to hear back from the diversity specialist for the area and hoping to go back out and look for the M. fistulosa when the waters subside.