The Pagosa skyrocket (Ipomopsis polyantha) is a rare biennial plant, which only grows on shale outcrops in and around Pagosa Springs in Archuleta County, Colorado. Approximately 78 percent of its suitable habitat is located on private lands, which are primed for residential, commercial and agricultural development.

Such development is a serious threat to the imperiled species because plants, along with the seeds in the soil that would produce next year’s plants, are destroyed in the development process. Pagosa skyrocket is also threatened by livestock trampling. Population numbers fluctuate year to year based on environmental conditions. One poor year of unfavorable weather, minimal moisture or natural disturbance can be detrimental to the species. The Pagosa skyrocket is listed as endangered.