streams, swamps & vernal pools
Blueberry Swamp in the Garrison School Forest
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The Garrison School Forest contains three water habitats for study: a stream, the Blueberry Swamp, and a vernal pool that forms in the early spring. Forester Anne Todd Osborn says that the Blueberry Swamp is an example of a highbush blueberry bog. A large, beautiful example of a red-maple hardwood swamp is located along the stream on the Townsend estate property, adjacent to the School Forest.
Use the guides below to help you explore the stream, swamp, and vernal pool. Learn about the animals and plants that live in these natural communities. |
streamsHudsonia provides a habitat fact sheet for streams. The New York Natural Heritage Program describes the features of streams, along with the plants, and animals that live in them:
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swampsThe New York State Department of Environmental Conservation defines a swamp as "a wetland dominated by woody plants (trees and shrubs), saturated soils during growing season, and standing water during various times of the year." Hudsonia provides a habitat fact sheet for swamps. The New York Natural Heritage Program also describes the features of swamp ecosystems:
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vernal poolsVernal pools are small, shallow basins, usually located within an upland forest. Typically, they fill in spring or after a heavy rainfall. The Cary Institute for Ecosystem Studies notes that vernal pools "recharge groundwater and subsurface aquifers, replenishing wells and drinking water resources." During summer, they are usually dry. Learn more about vernal pools and the animals that live in them from the:
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