RARE II: Imperiled Plants of Colorado was the second exhibition by the Rocky Mountain Society of Botanical Artists to be presented at the Museum at the Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College. The forty botanical illustrations on display were selected from the 121 globally imperiled plants identified on the Colorado Rare Plant Master List developed by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. The exhibition aimed to introduce the public to some of Colorado’s most imperiled plant species and to educate visitors about the importance of their protection. The illustrations were both scientifically accurate and exquisitely detailed.
Colorado supports a rich and diverse native flora ranging from shortgrass prairie to alpine tundra. Native plants are key components of the state’s natural heritage and are vital to ecosystem functions that contribute to a healthy, productive, and sustainable environment. A small percentage of Colorado’s native plants are considered rare, with some species endemic only to the state. As Colorado’s population and associated infrastructure expanded, these vulnerable species faced increasing risk.
The San Juan Mountains Association served as a co-sponsor of the exhibition, supporting its educational and stewardship goals related to the public lands of southwest Colorado.