In 2005, the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) obtained a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to review the status of rare plants previously reported/observed on Erie National Wildlife Refuge.  During the 2005 field season, with the help of refuge staff, WPC staff conducted field surveys.  Sixteen plant species were addressed; 11 previously found on the refuge and 5 reported to be on the refuge or in the vicinity, including a globally rare plant.  Of the 11 plants previously observed on the refuge, 8 are believed to be still present, one is likely extirpated, and 2 were not observed and their status is uncertain.  The globally rare plant, drooping bluegrass, was not observed due to the timing of the survey, but is probably extant.  Of the 5 plants that were reported to be on the refuge, 3 were not observed and their status is unclear, 1 was not observed and believed to be extirpated, and one needs further identification and investigation.  In addition, three new rare plants were found:  hooded ladies' tresses, marsh bedstraw, and while trout-lily.  

The final report released in July 2006 provides conservation recommendations for the rare plants deemed still extant on the refuge.  Copies of the report are available from the Refuge Headquarters(tel.: 814-789-3585).