Summary results of an analysis of the status of Eutrema penlandii based on several ranking factors. This species was concluded to be "moderately conserved”. From Rondeau et al. 2011.
The primary threats to Eutrema penlandii at this time appear to be hydrological alterations and mining. Activities that would impact surface water flow include anything from roads, trails, ruts from vehicles, footpaths, ruts, mining costruction or any activity of this nature that draws water away from the peat fen habitat (USFWS no date, Plant Profile). Mineral extraction could have a significant impact on this taxon. The mining companies contested the Mosquito Range Research Natural Area; mining remains a big threat to plants in the Mosquito Range because of the thousands of mining claims - a change in the economic viability of mining could cause mining to increase there (Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2004). Also, as mentioned ditching associated with mining could affect the delicate hydrology and could cause water pollution, both of which would adversly affect the species. Recreational use is also a threat including trampling by ORV's and hikers. Any activity that directly or indirectly alters the surface or ground water supply and alters the wetland habitat required by this species could pose a significant threat. In one occurrence, Jeeps and ATVs were parked directly on top of Eutrema plants (Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Element Occurrence data). The impacts of this seemingly benign activity can destroy large areas of this sensitive bog habitat. Another threat to this species are random events that might wipe-out large parts of the already small populations, such as fungal blight, drought, or insect infestations (US FWS no date, Plant Profile). On a larger scale, global warming potentially threatens this and other alpine species. Grazing is another threat, however, it is suggested that direct grazing on the Eutrema would probably be moderate given its small stature and the likelihood that its unpalatable. Grazing is still a threat to this species because grazing animals could easily trample or over-turn the Eutrema when looking for and eating moss in the bog (Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Element Occurrence data).