Join Fred Cichocki this spring for a guided nature experience of the Cathance River Nature Preserve’s Health Fen.
Did you know that the Cathance River Preserve is host to a fascinating Sphagnum moss wetland ecosystem known as the Heath Fen? And late Spring is just the time to experience its rare beauty. Many of the acid loving plants that call the Heath home will be in glorious full bloom: exotic magenta Rhodora and Sheep Laurel; alluring pink rose pogonia orchids; pure white Wild Calla; and more. A riot of color to be sure. But wait, among the other unusual and amazing plants you’ll encounter (besides the Sphagnums themselves) are carnivorous Sundews (maybe Pitcher Plants, too), Bog Clubmoss, Buttonbush, Large Cranberry, and others. Because the Heath is a wetland covered with a quaking Sphagnum mat, our Fentastic Adventure will have an added twist: We’ll explore it on snowshoes!
Fred Cichocki refers to himself as a natural historian. Academic credentials aside, he is a co-founder of the Maine Master Naturalist Program, Adjunct Curator of Vertebrates at the Maine State Museum, on the faculty of the Midcoast Senior College, and a member of the Maine Student Science Volunteers. Since 2018, Fred has directed/mentored Mt. Ararat Honors biology students in field research into the biodiversity of the Cathance River Preserve’s Heath fen ecosystem.
This event will have a small group size of 10 and snowshoes will be provided to all participants. We are hosting two of these events, but please only register for one. We do not recommend this event for anyone with mobility restrictions as walking atop the bog’s floating mat can be challenging to maneuver. We recommend bringing a walking stick or adjustable hiking poles and wearing clothes that can get a little wet!
For Ages 10 and up. Please register here to attend.
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