Long-term monitoring plots were installed in 2006 on Freel Peak and 2 adjacent summits following GLORIA protocol. Vascular plant and groundcover are visually estimated in 16 one-meter by one-meter permanent quadrats, and species presence is recorded in eight summit area sections. In addition, continuous soil temperatures are logged in four summit areas, and detailed repeat photography is taken. Plots are remeasured every 5 years. The U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station has taken the lead in organizing monitoring associated with the GLORIA project throughout California. GLORIA data provide the primary indicator of the status and trend of the cushion plant community. In 2009, the LTBMU installed 4 permanent plots targeting the Tahoe draba population in the Freel Peak cushion plant community. The plots are visited every 3-5 years to provide a quantitative and consistent method for evaluating the status and trend of this sensitive species.