| Abstract Detail
Conference Wide Smith, Welby [1]. Microhabitat Extremes at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is a biodiverse blufflands/driftless destination with a wide array of attractions and natural resource features. One can visit a historic townsite, hike or horseback ride on miles of trails, fish in several coldwater streams, tour Mystery Cave, and explore unique geology and plant communities. Our 4-hour hike will follow Canfield Creek to a complex of springs, which provide most of the baseline flow for the coldwater system. Along the way, we will visit numerous aspect-driven plant communities. Terrace forests cover much of the valley floor. Seepage communities occur along slopes where layers of shale force groundwater to the surface. Algific habitats and boreal remnants persist on north-facing slopes and cliffs. Mesic oak forests give way to dry oak woodlands on south and west slopes. Small prairie openings persist on the driest southwest aspects. Springs, sinkholes, caves, and other karst features are abundant, along with other geologic features such as rock slumps. Fossils are common in the exposed Ordovician bedrock. Bring binoculars for a chance to see Louisiana waterthrush along the streambanks. The trip will culminate on a dramatic ridgeline where mere feet separate dry bluff prairie from a north-facing algific talus slope with disjunct populations of balsam fir, Canada yew, and black currant. Hiking will vary from easy to moderate along much of Canfield Creek. The hike will also include a couple moderately strenuous climbs up the bluff (200 feet of elevation). Be prepared to be on and off the trail on uneven ground. Hiking boots, long pants, and hats are recommended. Insect spray, sunscreen, binoculars, water bottle and rain gear (weather dependent) are advised. Box lunches and water will be provided.
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1 - Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Keywords:
none specified
Presentation Type: Activities:Field Trips
Session: FT09, Microhabitat Extremes at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Location: Ballroom Lobby - West/Mayo Civic Center
Date: Sunday, July 22nd, 2018
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: FT09001
Abstract ID:1248
Candidate for Awards:None |
