Montana Field Guide

DRAFT: Requesting feedback on the 2026 revised rank, factors, and State Rank Reason outlined below and in the Conservation Status Rank Report. Gaultheria ovatifolia is a species of the Pacific Northwest that reaches its eastern extent in northwest Montana, where it is an uncommon species of mesic, forested habitats. Occurrences are mostly on publicly managed lands, including many on National Forest lands managed for multiple use. A few sites occur within Glacier National Park. Population levels are uncertain though they may be relatively robust. Population trends are unknown. As the species occurs in both intact forests and on old or abandoned roadbeds, it is unclear whether particular populations are stable, or increasing or decreasing in abundance under recent successional dynamics and disturbance regimes. Survey and monitoring data are needed to be able to more precisely determine population levels, assess condition and for assessing population trends. If collection of survey and monitoring data shows that populations are likely stable, or if additional populations are located, or if statewide populations are at the larger end of the current estimates, then a rank of S4 is likely appropriate.