2026 Sampling

While the project formally concluded last summer with 55 peaks visited in total, additional sampling has continued as opportunity allows.  David Giblin and Hayden Wright have made a couple successful sampling trips so far this summer.

On July 23rd, we visited Hart's Pass where we were able to access Tatie Peak North via the Pacific Crest Trail.  In spite of smoke, high temperatures, and threats of lightning storms, sampling was safe and successful, concluding with a total of 66 specimens collected.

The dramatic scenery typical of the Hart's Pass/Pasayten Wilderness area

Between August 17th and 19th, David and Hayden returned to the Goat Rocks Wilderness and were able to add two new peaks to the project: Johnson Peak and an unnamed 7,247-foot peak to the south.  These peaks were identified as potential sample sites during the 2025 visit to the Goat Rocks from nearby Hawkeye Point.  All in all, it was a very productive trip with a total of 133 specimens returning to the herbarium to be added to the collection.

Johnson Peak in the Goat Rocks Wilderness, with Mount Rainier in the background

Some notable or interesting collections from these outings include Askellia pygmaea from Tatie Peak North, Monardella odoratissima from Johnson Peak, and Elymus glaucus on the unnamed 7,247-foot peak.

Askellia pygmaea

Monardella odoratissima

Elymus glaucus