ML070720575
| ML070720575 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Susquehanna  |
| Issue date: | 12/31/2001 |
| From: | Davis A, Hamsher S, Hart J, Klugman S, Kunsman J, Mumper J, Ray B, Ring R, Stauffer A, Urban C The Nature Conservancy |
| To: | Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
| ALICIA MULLINS 301-415-1224 | |
| References | |
| Download: ML070720575 (191) | |
Text
A NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA 2001 Prepared By:
Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 208 Airport Drive Middletown, Pennsylvania 17057 Anthony F. Davis, Director Aura L. Stauffer, County Inventory Coordinator (Present)
Rich Ring, County Inventory Coordinator (until March 2001)
Chris Urban, Herpetologist Jim Hart, Mammalogist John Kunsman, Botanist Jenni Mumper, Information Manager Susan Klugman, GIS Scientist Betsy Ray, Conservation Information Assistant Sarah Hamsher Conservation Information Assistant Prepared for:
Luzerne County Board of Commissioners Thomas A. Makowski, Chairman Thomas P. Pizano Stephen A Urban
ARBUTUS PEAK, which is one of the richest barrens for moths and butterflies in the northeast, is one of the top sites for conservation in Luzerne County.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy
PREFACE The Luzerne Natural Areas Inventory is a document compiled and written by the Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy. It contains information on the locations of rare, threatened, and endangered species and of the highest quality natural areas in Luzerne County; it is not an inventory of all open space or even all natural areas. It is intended as a conservation tool and should in no way be treated or used as a field guide.
Accompanying each site description are general management recommendations that would help to ensure the protection and continued existence of these rare plants, animals and natural communities. The recommendations are based on the biological needs of these elements (species and communities). The recommendations are strictly those of The Nature Conservancy and do not necessarily reflect the policies of the state or the policies of Luzerne County or townships for which the report was prepared.
Managed areas such as federal, state, county and township lands, private preserves and conservation easements are also provided on the maps where that information was available to us. This information is useful in determining where gaps occur in the protection of land with rare species, natural communities and locally significant habitats. The mapped boundaries are approximate and our list of managed areas may be incomplete, as new sites are always being added.
Implementation of the recommendations is up to the discretion of the landowners.
However, cooperative efforts to protect the highest quality natural features through the development of site-specific management plans are greatly encouraged. Landowners working on management of or site plans for specific areas described in this document are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy at (717) 948-3962 for further information.
Although an attempt was made through advertising, public meetings, research, and informal communications to locate the sites most important to the conservation of biodiversity within Luzerne County, it is possible that something was missed. Anyone with information on sites that may have been overlooked should contact the Luzerne County Office of Community Development. This Natural Areas Inventory will be updated within five years, and additional sites may be included at that time.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This project was financed in part by a grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, under the administration of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation and, Luzerne County Office of Community Development. Additional Funding came from the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, and the Sordoni Foundation.
The species information utilized in the inventory came from many sources as well as our own field surveys. We wish to acknowledge the work of all of those who have carried out botanical and zoological survey work over the years. Without their contributions, this survey would have been far less complete. Biologists from institutions, organizations, and agencies such as the North Branch Land Trust, Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, Wilkes University, the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Shippensburg University, and Dickinson College were among the contributors for plant and animal records. Rob Criswell conducted surveys for rare fish species, and Douglas Gross conducted surveys for rare bird species under contract for this report.
This report benefited from an unusually high degree of involvement from local naturalists and conservationists who gave generously of their time. Rick Koval in particular spent many days in the field with PNDI ecologists and provided valuable data on sites for rare birds, herptiles, lepidoptera, and plants. Alan Gregory, Jim Hoyson, Autumn Pfieffer, and Linda Thoma also assisted in field surveys and provided information on rare species. Jane Frey and Claudia Steckel provided information on rare plant species in the county. Many other private citizens contacted our office with information on natural areas. Gene Wiener provided access to remote portions of State Game Lands. Dan Brauning of the PA Game Commission provided information on sites for rare bird species. Many thanks go to those who reviewed the draft of this report. Finally, we especially wish to thank the many landowners that granted us permission to conduct inventories on their lands. The task of inventorying the natural heritage of Luzerne County would have been far more difficult without this tremendous pool of information gathered by many people over many years.
Copies of this document may be obtained from:
Luzerne County Office of Community Development 54 West Union Street Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711 (570) 824-7214 ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE ...................................................................................................................................................................i ACKNOWLEDGMENTS .............................................................................................................. ii LIST OF USGS QUADRANGLES ...................................................................................................................v INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................. 1 NATURAL HISTORY OVERVIEW OF LUZERNE COUNTY .................................................. 3 Physiography and Geology ......................................................................................................... 3 Soils ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Vegetation ................................................................................................................................... 5 PENNSYLVANIA NATURAL DIVERSITY INVENTORY DATA SYSTEM ........................ 10 NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY METHODS......................................................................... 11 Information Gathering .............................................................................................................. 11 Map and Air Photo Interpretation............................................................................................. 11 Field Work ................................................................................................................................ 12 Data Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 12 Map Codes ................................................................................................................................ 13 Priorities for Protection............................................................................................................. 13 RESULTS ..................................................................................................................................... 14 Exceptional Natural Feature: The North Branch of the Susquehanna and Lehigh Rivers ...... 14 Top Priority Natural Areas in Luzerne County: ....................................................................... 15 RECOMMENDATIONS AND
SUMMARY
............................................................................. 153 GLOSSARY ............................................................................................................................... 156 REFERENCES AND LITERATURE CITED ........................................................................... 160 SITE INDEX............................................................................................................................... 169 List of Tables TABLE 1.
SUMMARY
OF THE SITES OF STATEWIDE SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY IN LUZERNE COUNTY. ..................................................................................19 TABLE 2 AREAS OF LOCAL SIGNIFICANCE IN LUZERNE COUNTY ...........................................................45 List of Figures FIGURE 1: TOP PRIORITY NATURAL AREAS IN LUZERNE COUNTY: .........................................................18 FIGURE 2. OUTLINE OF LUZERNE COUNTY WITH NAMES AND LOCATIONS OF USGS QUADRANGLE MAPS.................................................................................................................................................................47 List of Appendices APPENDIX I: NATURAL AREA SURVEY FORM...............................................................................................176 APPENDIX II: COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION ...............................................................................................177 TABLE OF CONTENTS iii
APPENDIX III: FIELD SURVEY FORM................................................................................................................180 APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS............................................................................................................181 APPENDIX V: PENNSYLVANIA ELEMENT OCCURRENCE QUALITY RANKS ..........................................186 APPENDIX VI: SPECIAL PLANTS AND ANIMALS OF LUZERNE COUNTY ................................................187 iv
LIST OF USGS QUADRANGLES AVOCA ...................................................................................................................................................... 48 BERWICK .................................................................................................................................................. 52 CENTER MORELAND ............................................................................................................................. 56 CONYNGHAM .......................................................................................................................................... 59 DUTCH MOUNTAIN ................................................................................................................................ 63 FREELAND................................................................................................................................................ 67 HARVEYS LAKE ...................................................................................................................................... 72 HAZLETON ............................................................................................................................................... 76 HICKORY RUN ......................................................................................................................................... 80 KINGSTON ................................................................................................................................................ 83 LOPEZ ........................................................................................................................................................ 86 NANTICOKE ............................................................................................................................................. 89 NOXEN....................................................................................................................................................... 94 NUREMBERG ........................................................................................................................................... 96 PITTSTON.................................................................................................................................................. 98 PLEASANT VIEW SUMMIT.................................................................................................................. 102 RANSOM ................................................................................................................................................. 109 RED ROCK .............................................................................................................................................. 112 SHICKSHINNY ....................................................................................................................................... 118 STILLWATER ......................................................................................................................................... 121 SWEET VALLEY .................................................................................................................................... 123 SYBERTSVILLE ..................................................................................................................................... 129 THORNHURST........................................................................................................................................ 133 WEATHERLY.......................................................................................................................................... 136 WHITE HAVEN....................................................................................................................................... 138 WILKES-BARRE EAST.......................................................................................................................... 141 WILKES-BARRE WEST ......................................................................................................................... 147 v
Forested corridors are essential for the movement of animals from one habitat to the next.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
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INTRODUCTION Luzerne County is located in northeastern Pennsylvania, centered about the North Branch of the Susquehanna River and the historic Wyoming Valley. Luzerne County encompasses 901 square miles (Luzerne County Office of Community Development), making it the fifth largest county, (by area) in the state. Past development patterns have been greatly influenced by the dominant features of the landscape itself. The Wyoming Valley, the heart of the richest anthracite coal deposits in North America, has a densely settled and highly disturbed landscape as a result of the Countys history as a mining center. Few natural areas remain here and the early successional habitats of the old tailing areas will remain for some time. In contrast, the rugged plateaus of North Mountain and the Pocono Plateau are only sparsely populated today, though these areas were also severely disturbed, by logging and burning, from 80 to 100 years ago. Despite this disturbance, the large publicly owned tracts of second-growth forest and relatively intact watersheds contain a wide diversity of habitats as well as scenic and recreational values. Outside of these extremes, Luzerne County contains a patchwork of natural and human-dominated habitats, including cropland, pasture, young and old forests, ponds, streams, and rivers. The bluffs and water gaps along the North Branch of the Susquehanna River, the Lehigh River Gorge, and the deep ravines cut at Ricketts Glen and elsewhere on the Allegheny Front are among the most striking landscapes in the county and the commonwealth. The natural areas of Luzerne County are used for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, birdwatching, and other activities that make the region an attractive place to live. Outdoor recreation and tourism is an increasingly important part of Northeast Pennsylvanias economy (PA State Data Center). The same pieces of the landscape that provide scenic and recreational opportunities also function as habitat for a great diversity of plants and animals, including rare, threatened and endangered species. This Natural Areas Inventory documented many examples of intact natural communities and sites for species rarely found in the state or the world.
Luzerne Countys population fell from 343,079 to 328,149 (-4.3%) during the 1980s, and census projections predict a continuing gradually slowing population loss in the coming decades (PA State Data Center). However, the majority of the population loss has come from the urban areas centered in the Wyoming Valley and Hazleton (-5.5% from 1980 to 1990), and the rural population has decreased only slightly over the same period (-.9%). Despite the overall decline in population there is development pressure in scenic and rural areas for commuters to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area, and for commuters to the NYC/NJ area from the Pocono Plateau area at the eastern edge of the county. The natural areas that comprise Luzerne Countys natural heritage can be easily lost without careful planning of growth and development; ironically the scenic and remote nature of these areas may make them prime targets for residential developments. Protecting the integrity of these natural systems provides benefits to humans as well as providing for the survival of wildlife, rare and otherwise. Wise planning can maintain open space, including natural environments and the plants and animals associated with them. A balance between growth and the conservation of scenic and natural resources can be achieved by guiding development away from the most environmentally - sensitive areas.
In order to achieve such a balance and ensure protection of critical natural areas, county and municipal governments, the public, and developers must know the location and importance of these sites. This knowledge can help prevent conflicts over land use as well as help to direct protection efforts and limited conservation dollars to the most vulnerable areas. The 1
Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy, under contract to the Luzerne County Office of Community Development, has undertaken this project to provide a document and maps that will aid in the identification of these important areas.
The Natural Areas Inventory report presents the known outstanding natural features__floral, faunal and geologic in Luzerne County. The Inventory provides maps of the best natural communities (habitats) and all the known locations of animal and plant species of special concern (endangered, threatened, or rare) in Luzerne County. The maps do not pinpoint the site of concern but rather represent a zone of potential impacts within the sites watershed. A written description and a summary table of the sites, including quality, degree of rarity, and last-observed date, accompany each map. Potential threats and some suggestions for protection of the rare plants or animals at the site are included in many of the individual site descriptions. Selected geologic features of statewide significance are also noted. In addition, the inventory describes locations of areas that are significant on a county - wide scale, but cannot be deemed exemplary natural communities because of past disturbances. These "locally significant" sites represent good examples of habitats that are relatively rare in the county, support an uncommon diversity of plant species, and/or provide valuable wildlife habitat on a local level.
The information and maps presented in this report provide a useful guide for planning development and parks, for conserving natural areas, and for setting priorities for the preservation of the most vulnerable natural areas. An overall summary identifies the highest quality sites in the county. All of the sites in this report were evaluated for their importance in protecting biological diversity on a state and local level, but many also have scenic value, provide water quality protection, and are potential sites for low-impact passive recreation, nature observation and/or environmental education.
The Natural Areas Inventory will be provided to each municipality through the Luzerne County Office of Community Development. The inventory is one tool that will aid in the creation of municipal and county and comprehensive plans, and the emphasis on biological diversity should inform county and regional open space plans already underway. Luzerne County, its municipalities, land trusts, and other organizations can also use the Natural Areas Inventory to identify potential protection projects that may be eligible for funding through state or community grant programs such as Growing Greener. Landowners will also find this inventory useful in managing and planning for the use of their land; it gives them the opportunity to explore alternatives that will provide for their needs and still protect the species and habitats that occur on their land. For example, the Forest Stewardship program, coordinated by DCNR Bureau of Forestry, assists landowners in creating management plans. This plan is developed based on landowner objectives (e.g., wildlife or timber management). Land managers may wish to consult this report and the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory (PNDI) in an effort to avoid potential conflicts in areas with species of special concern and/or identify ways of enhancing or protecting this resource. Users of this document are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy for additional information.
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NATURAL HISTORY OVERVIEW OF LUZERNE COUNTY The climate, geology, topography, and soils have played an important role in the development of the ecosystems (forests, wetlands, etc) as well as other natural features (e.g., streams and geologic features) in Luzerne County. Natural and human disturbances have also been influential in the development and alteration of these ecosystems, causing the extirpation of some species and the introduction of others.
These combined factors provide the framework for locating and identifying exemplary natural communities and species of special concern in the county. The following sections provide a brief overview of the physiography, geology, soils, surface water, and vegetation of Luzerne County.
Physiography and Geology The characteristic landscapes and distinctive geologic formations classify Physiographic Provinces.
Physiography relates in part to a regions topography and climate. These two factors, along with bedrock type, significantly influence soil development, hydrology, and land use patterns of an area.
Additionally, both physiography and geology are important to the patterns of plant community distribution, which in turn influences animal distribution. Because of the differences in climate, soils, and moisture regime, certain plant communities would be expected to occur within some provinces and not in others. Physiographic and geologic information was obtained from many sources including Ground Water in Northeastern Pennsylvania (Lohman 1957), The Geologic Map of Pennsylvania (DCNR, Bureau of Topographic & Geologic Survey 1982), and Physiographic Provinces of Pennsylvania (Sevan 2000).
Luzerne County is situated within two Physiographic Provinces: the Ridge and Valley Province and Appalachian Plateaus Province. The county contains three sections of the Appalachian Plateaus Province: the Glaciated High Plateau Section in its northwest corner, the Glaciated Low Plateau in the northeast corner, and the Glaciated Pocono Plateau Section in the southeast corner. Most of Luzerne County lies within the Susquehanna Lowland Section, the Anthracite Upland Section, and the Anthracite Valley Section of the Ridge and Valley Province. The most striking physiographic feature in this section is the Wyoming Valley, bisected by the North Branch of the Susquehanna River from Pittston to Nanticoke and bordered by steep ridges on both sides. This part of the county is comprised of a long synclinal trough, with the outer rim made up of hard sandstone and conglomerate of the Pocono Formation, and the inner rim made up of bedrock of the Pottsville Formation. Outcrops of conglomerate rock from the Pottsville formation are exposed along Wilkes-Barre Mountain above Ashley. The abrupt Allegheny Front, which is visible from Route 29 in the northwestern portion of Luzerne County, is the demarcation between the Ridge and Valley and Mountainous Plateau provinces. The Appalachian Plateau Province is underlain predominantly by red to brownish shale and sandstone of the Catskill Formation.
Continental glaciers greatly modified the landscape of Luzerne County, covering most of the county during their last advance that ended approximately 12,000 years ago. Deposits of rock, sand, clay, and silt left directly by the glacier are called unstratified or till deposits. Some of these deposits are 300 feet thick. Many of Luzerne Countys soils that developed on till have a dense clay layer, or hardpan, and are too stony or wet for cultivation. Wetlands have formed in the depressions that were the result of glacial scouring and the deposition of ice blocks (kettleholes), as well as glacial deposits that blocked drainage channels and altered stream flow. Large aggregations of these small kettle holes are found in several areas along the base of Nescopeck Mountain, which is located near the southern limit of the last 3
glacial advance. Between Penobscot and Nescopeck Mountain numerous larger ice-blocks formed a series of glacial bogs and lakes that have been altered to various degrees. Nuangola Lake, Lily Lake, Cranberry Pond, and Dorrance Bog sites are examples of these sites. Stratified sands and gravels form very deep deposits, now utilized as gravel pits, along the terraces of the North Branch of the Susquehanna River.
Soils The distribution of soils in Luzerne County reflects both local topography and bedrock geology. The previously described physiographic regions tend to have similar soils, which in turn influence land use patterns. For example, coal deposits that have been exploited extensively in the Wyoming Valley and the Hazleton area are underlain by the Anthracite Valley Section and the Anthracite Upland Section of the Ridge and Valley Province. The Susquehanna Lowland Section is a comprised of a mixture of agriculture and young forest. Mountains in the section (e.g., Penobscot and Nescopeck) remain largely undeveloped and contain extensive forested or barrens areas. Similarly, the Glaciated High Plateau, the Glaciated Low Plateau, and the Glaciated Pocono Plateau Sections are mostly forested and contain many of the recreational areas of the county (e.g., Ricketts Glen Sate Park and State Game Lands).
The following brief descriptions of soil associations, which are grouped by physiographic section, are taken from the USDA Soil Survey of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania (Bush 1981). The reader should refer to the Soil Survey for more detailed soil information. An association is a group of soils with a distinctive, proportional pattern of occurrence in the landscape (Bush 1981). Seven soil associations have been described for Luzerne County. Each soil association contains one or more major soils and minor soils.
Susquehanna Lowland, Anthracite Valley, & Anthracite Upland Sections - The majority of Luzerne County is situated within these Sections. These sections contains all seven soil associations described in the Soil Survey for the County. The Oquaga-Wellsboro-Lackawanna association is the largest in Luzerne County comprising approximately 46 percent of the county. The association is found on broad, dissected plateaus and in broad basins between mountains. The soils have formed from reddish loamy glacial till derived from red sandstone and shale. The land is mainly used for dairy farming and development. The majority of the land in this association remains forested because of the stoniness and impeded drainage of the soils. Many of the State Game Lands in the county are located in this soil association.
The Oquaga-Lordstown-Arnot association makes up about 13 percent of the county. It consists of moderately steep to very steep soils on the sides and tops of ridges of the major northeast-southwest trending mountain ranges. The soils formed in red to brown loamy glacial till derived from red or gray sandstone, shale, or conglomerate. Because of the extremely stony surface and the steep and very steep slopes, about 90 percent of this association are in woodland. A few State Game Lands are found in this association.
The Strip Mine-Mine Dump association, which makes up approximately 10 percent of the county, is found on broad mountaintops, mountainsides, and valleys. It consists of exposed bedrock, soil, and rock material that were removed during coal mining activities. Most areas of this association are either developed or are presently idle with dwarf forests of gray birch (Betula populifolia). If restored these areas would be ideal for future industrial development.
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The Chenango-Pope-Wyoming association consists of nearly level to steeply sloping, deep soils on glacial outwash areas and floodplains. This soil association comprises approximately 9 percent of the county. The soils formed in loamy to coarse textured glacial outwash deposits derived from reddish and brown upland glacial till. Agriculture is the main land use of the associationthe orchards located beneath Council Cup Cliffs are one example.
The Pocono-Dekalb association makes up about 9 percent of the county. It consists of gently sloping to very steep soils on mountaintops formed in glacial till or residuum, and derived from sandstone, conglomerate, and some shale. The main land uses of this association are woodlands with some land developed for residential and strip mining activities.
The Lordstown-Mardin-Volusia association is found on broad, dissected plateaus, and it comprises approximately 8 percent of the county. The soils formed in glacial till derived from red and gray sandstone, shale, and conglomerate. Dairy farms are the main land use of this association. Because of the stoniness and the impeded drainage of the soils, the majority of the association remains forested.
Finally, the Meckesville-Kendron-Leck Kill association consists of gently sloping to moderately steep, deep soils in upland valleys. The soils formed in reddish glacial till derived from sandstone and shale.
This association makes up about 5 percent of the county. Agriculture is the main land use of the association.
Glaciated Pocono Plateau Section - A small piece of this section is found in eastern Luzerne County.
The soils are formed in glacial till derived from sandstone, shale, or conglomerate. There are four soil associations in this section including the Oquaga-Wellsboro-Lackawanna association, Chenango-Pope-Wyoming, Lordstown-Mardin-Volusia, and the Oquaga-Lordstown-Arnot association. The descriptions for all of the associations are given above. Most of the land remains forested with State Game Lands, hunting clubs, and residential developments as the primary land uses.
Glaciated High & Glaciated Low Plateau Sections - The soils in these two sections are formed in glacial till derived from sandstone, shale, or conglomerate. There are three soil associations in the sections including the Oquaga-Wellsboro-Lackawanna association, Lordstown-Mardin-Volusia, and the Oquaga-Lordstown-Arnot association. The descriptions for all of the associations are given above. The main land use for this section of the county, which is largely forested, is recreational. Like much of Luzerne County this area was mostly stripped of its forests a century ago; the second growth that exists today is a mixture of northern hardwoods with much black cherry (Prunus serotina) and conifer-dominated wetlands. Recreational areas include Ricketts Glen State Park, State Game Lands, and private hunting clubs.
Vegetation Upland Forest Communities The vegetation of Luzerne County reflects the environmental conditions (geology, topography, soils, climate) and disturbance history, both natural and anthropogenic. On a regional scale, Luzerne County is located within two major forest types __Appalachian Oak Forest and Northern Hardwood Forest (Bailey 1980). Appalachian Oak Forest is more common east of the Susquehanna River and in drier or 5
less fertile locations in the Appalachian Mountain Section west of the Susquehanna. This mixed oak forest is analogous to Braun's (1950) Oak-Chestnut Forest and includes black oak (Quercus velutina),
red oak (Q. rubra), white oak (Q. alba), and chestnut oak (Q. montana) as potential dominants or codominants depending on soil moisture and fertility. Other common tree species of this forest type are red maple (Acer rubrum), black cherry (Prunus serotina), gray and black birches (Betula populifolia &
B. lenta), white pine (Pinus strobus), pitch pine (Pinus rigida), and aspens (Populus sp.). Shrubs include species of blueberries (Vaccinium sp.), huckleberries (Gaylussacia sp.), teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens) and other dry forest species. Variants of the Mixed Oak Forest occur as a result of differing environmental conditions. One common forest type in Luzerne County is the Chestnut Oak community which is characteristic of dry ridgetops and rocky slopes. Associates include red oak, black oak, scarlet oak (Q. coccinea), black birch, and red maple. PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP (Nanticoke quad.), in its unburned portions, typifies this community type. The understory may be sparse or dominated by ericaceous species such as blueberries, huckleberry and mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia).
Less frequent is the Pitch Pine-Scrub Oak community found on isolated dry, exposed ridgetops.
ARBUTUS PEAK (Wilkes-Barre East quad.) and STOCKTON MOUNTAIN BARRENS (Hazleton quad.) are examples of this community. Characteristic species are pitch pine that may be frequent to dominant, scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) that typically forms a nearly impenetrable shrub layer and may be the dominant species in the community, and black and chestnut oaks. Other species common to this community include huckleberry, black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa), lowbush blueberry, teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens), and bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum). Also found on exposed ridge tops is the Acidic Rocky Summit community. This community has many of the same species as the Pitch Pine-Scrub Oak community. It is characterized by a high percentage of exposed rock (often Pottsville Conglomerate), extremely shallow soils, and a little tree cover. Openings are dominated by a mix of low shrubs, grasses, and mosses such as lowbush blueberry, poverty grass (Deschampsia flexuosa),
Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pensylvanica), and haircap moss (Polytrichum sp.). An example of this community type occurs at WILKES-BARRE MOUNTAIN above Ashley (Wilkes-Barre West quadrangle). Fires are necessary disturbances to perpetuate both of these community types.
Northern Hardwood Forest is more common west of the Susquehanna in slightly richer or mesic areas, and on the Glaciated High Plateau area that includes Ricketts Glen State Park. SHICKSHINNY MOUNTAIN SLOPES (Nanticoke quad) is a young example of this forest type. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum), red maple, American beech (Fagus grandifolia), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis),
Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and white pine (Pinus strobus) are potential dominants in this forest type. This area is second growth forest. The regeneration of trees after logging has been slow in some areas because of poor soils, particularly in the Glaciated High Plateau Section in the northwest.
Wetland Communities Wetlands are found throughout the glaciated portion of the county but tend to have been less altered by humans in the Pocono and Glaciated High Plateau Sections. Many of these are shallow ice-block basins. In acidic soils Boreal Conifer Swamps such as BALD MOUNTAIN ROAD SWAMP (Avoca quad.) tend to dominate. There are many examples of these in the Pocono Plateau section, although most are highly disturbed. They are often dominated by a relatively open canopy of red spruce (Picea rubens), eastern hemlock, and larch (Larix laricina), with a dense shrub layer of highbush blueberry 6
(Vaccinium corymbosum), rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), and/or mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronata).
At slightly more enriched sites, Broadleaf-Conifer Swamp appears to be the natural climax community for these wetlands. BEAR SWAMP and NEVEL SWAMP (Sweet Valley quad.) are examples. They are dominated by a more closed canopy of yellow birch, red maple, and eastern hemlock. Many of the wetlands within the county are not forested but instead support open shrub swamps dominated by some mix of rhododendron, highbush blueberry, mountain holly, speckled alder (Alnus incana), leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), sphagnum mosses (Sphagnum sp.) and sedges (Carex sp.). The maintenance of open canopy wetlands is the result of fire, logging, or higher water levels due to beaver and other causes. Some of the forested swamps have not received recent disturbance and have recovered sufficiently to be considered as high quality natural communities.
Both forest and shrub dominated wetland community types are important in Luzerne County as habitat for rare species. One of the rarest wetland communities in the county is the glacial kettlehole bog, exemplified by DORRANCE BOG (Sybertsville quad.). This community is characterized by concentric bands of vegetation encircling a pond: spruce and/or larch on the outside band, then shrubs, sedges, and a floating sphagnum-dominated bog mat towards the center. Historically, other sites in the county appear to have supported bogs as well. However most of these were flooded out by beaver and/or human-made dams, and in some cases impacted by logging and/or fires. For example, remnants of the bog mat can still be found at NUANGOLA LAKE (Wilkes-Barre West quad.). Recently impounded or otherwise disturbed wetlands may sometimes support marshes of graminoid or other emergent vegetation. LEE SWAMP and NANTICOKE MARSH, which are examples of these community types, are often important breeding habitat for bird species of concern. Most lakes (deepwater habitats) in the county have been greatly enlarged by damming or are the result of flooding stream valleys. HARVEYS LAKE is an exception, although it has been significantly impacted by development. However, the remaining lakes that are relatively natural are habitat for many aquatic plants and animals, several of which are species of concern.
Ephemeral/fluctuating or vernal pools are wetlands that fill annually from precipitation, surface water runoff, and rising groundwater (Kenney and Burne, 2000). The pools typically become completely dry through evaporation by late spring or summer. During the brief time the pools contain water, they become important breeding areas for a multitude of amphibian species (e.g., spotted salamanders), many of which breed solely in vernal pools. In Luzerne County, several vernal pool communities are found in topographic depressions created by small ice blocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. The EDGEWOOD VERNAL POOLS (Freeland quadrangle) and the BRIGGSVILLE VERNAL POOLS (Berwick quadrangle) exemplify these types of vernal pools. Vernal pools, such as the pools on PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP (Nanticoke and Wilkes-Barre West quadrangles), can also occur on the tops of mountains. The rock strata on Penobscot Mountain are tilted sharply upward creating several parallel rock outcrops (some of conglomerate) with the pools occurring in the "grooves" between the more resistant outcrops.
Disturbance The nature, scale, and frequency of disturbance are influential factors in the evolution and appearance of natural communities. Disturbance has played a major role in forming the current vegetation of Luzerne County. Disturbance can be beneficial or destructive to the development and persistence of natural 7
communities. Fires may have helped to establish and maintain some of the important plant communities that we see on the landscape today, particularly on ridgetops and in the Pocono Plateau section (State Game Lands #91). Many Ridgetop Dwarf -Tree Forest communities show evidence of past fire and these barrens communities are important habitat for a variety of rare species, especially moths. Other examples of natural disturbances are flooding, deer browsing, and beaver. While often regarded as a detrimental impact, small-scale flooding can be beneficial to certain communities or rare species.
Floodplain forests benefit from the periodic scouring and deposition of sediments as streams overtop their banks.
In contrast, deer have been blamed for a number of negative impacts on Pennsylvania flora and fauna (Rhoads et al. 1992): a reduction in the amount of understory, poor regeneration of some species, decreased songbird diversity, and direct loss of rare plants. For example, some areas that were once dominated by oak trees are now converting to red maples trees because of deer pressure (The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Service). Private landowners can help to control the deer population by allowing hunting to occur on their properties.
Beavers are natural disturbance agents in Luzerne County and their alterations to the landscape are important for maintaining a variety of open upland and wetland habitats. Species that require high light regimes depend on open habitats created by beaver and may drop out of an area without beaver altering the natural vegetation. However, where beaver become too abundant they may alter wetland systems to the degree that some wetland types, such as bogs, and the rare species that inhabit them have become threatened.
In many cases, human disturbance has been destructive to natural habitats and species associated with them. In Luzerne County logging and mining have played a major role in changing the landscape. For example, old-growth forests are virtually non-existent, although occasional old trees may be encountered (e.g., The Glens Natural Area). Mining, which has altered topography and vegetation, is not as active in the County as it once was. Old mined lands can still provide valuable habitat, especially for birds, by reclaiming the land with grasses and shrubs. For instance, reclaimed mined lands that were surveyed near Pittsburgh were found to provide nesting and wintering habitat for grassland bird species including ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), short-eared owl (Asio flammeus), northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna), and Henlows sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii).
Lake Jean and the entire upper Fishing Creek watershed have been severely affected by acid deposition (i.e., acid rain). Active (e.g., limestone) and passive (e.g., cattail wetlands) water treatment may eventually bring the fisheries in these areas back to life.
Additionally, many wetland habitats have been filled or altered resulting in the loss of some of the native plants and animals of these sites. Although some species, including several rare species, are aided by on-site disturbance (e.g. clearing or mowing), human disturbance is detrimental to most species. With wide-ranging human disturbance, some plant and animal species may be completely eradicated from an area because they cannot compete or survive under newly created conditions. Human disturbances are a permanent part of Luzerne Countys landscape, but decisions about the type, timing, and extent of future disturbances are important to the natural ecological diversity that remains.
An increasing threat to these communities and natural habitats is the introduction and spread of exotic (i.e., non-native), invasive species. These include, among others, the chestnut blight fungus that 8
dramatically changed the composition of our forests; the grass carp that can disrupt native aquatic life; and a multitude of plants that out-compete native species. Non-native plants such as tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), and garlic mustard (Alliaria officinalis) have become commonplace in disturbed woodlands, often to the point of excluding some of the native plants. In wetlands and along streams, purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), wild hops (Humulus japonicus), and Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) are aggressive, weedy species that follow in the wake of disturbance and crowd out native species. They pose a particular problem today along the Susquehanna River.
Control of these problematic, non-native species is necessary for the long-term maintenance of high quality natural systems. Discouraging the use of these and other potentially weedy exotics in and around natural areas can help to prevent further encroachment. Some nurseries now carry a selection of tree, shrub and herbaceous species that are native to Pennsylvania, and these are recommended where plantings are necessary in, or adjacent to, natural areas. The Vascular Flora of Pennsylvania (Rhoads &
Klein 1993) is a helpful reference for determining whether a plant species is native to the state or not.
Additional references include two PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources publications:
Invasive Plants in Pennsylvania and Landscaping with Native Plants in Pennsylvania.
The preservation of grasslands (e.g., reclaimed mined lands) is important for ground-nesting species like these PA-Endangered short-eared owls.
Photo: Taken by Aura Stauffer at a reclaimed strip mine near Pittsburgh.
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PENNSYLVANIA NATURAL DIVERSITY INVENTORY DATA SYSTEM In order to plan for the protection and stewardship of Luzerne Countys natural features, the Pennsylvania Science Office (PSO) of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) was contracted by the Luzerne County Office of Community Development to provide an inventory of significant flora, fauna and natural communities in the county. Critical to this effort is the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory (PNDI) database. PNDI was established in 1982 as a joint venture of The Pennsylvania Science Office (PSO) of The Nature Conservancy, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation of Natural Resources (DCNR), and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. In its 14 years of operation, the PNDI database has become Pennsylvania's chief storehouse of information on outstanding natural habitat types (called natural communities in PNDI terminology), sensitive plant and animal species (species of special concern), and heron rookeries. Several other noteworthy natural features are also mapped, including DEP designated Exceptional Value streams (Shertzer 1992) and outstanding geologic features (based on recommendations from Geyer and Bolles 1979). Over 10,000 detailed occurrence records, largely the result of field surveys, are stored in computer files and denoted on topographic maps. Additional data are stored in extensive manual and digital files set up for over 150 natural community types, over 800 plant and animal species, and about 650 managed areas, and are organized according to each of Pennsylvania's 881 71/2' USGS topographic quadrangle maps using a GIS (geographic information system).
Beginning in 1982, PSO has collected existing data on occurrences of elements of concern, drawing from publications, herbarium and museum specimens, and the knowledge of expert botanists, zoologists, ecologists, and naturalists. From this foundation, PSO has focused its efforts on, and conducted systematic inventories for, the best occurrences of the priority elements.
The PA Science Office has used this systematic inventory approach to identify the areas of highest natural integrity in Luzerne County. These areas, comprised of natural communities with their characteristic species, represent an estimated 85-90 percent of the biological diversity of an area (The Nature Conservancy, 1988); the other 10-15 percent consists of sensitive plant and animal species which occur both within and outside these natural communities. The full range of biological diversity in Luzerne County can be conserved by protecting both sites with the best occurrences of Luzerne Countys natural communities as well as good populations of their sensitive plants and animal species.
The natural community and sensitive species data are the basis for judging the biological values of sites within the county.
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NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY METHODS Methods used in the Luzerne County Natural Areas Inventory followed PNDI procedures, and those developed in Illinois (White 1978) and Indiana (Anonymous 1985). The inventory proceeds in three stages: 1) information is gathered from the PNDI data-base files, local experts, and map and air photo interpretation; 2) ground survey and reconnaissance is conducted by aircraft; and 3) data are analyzed and mapped.
Information Gathering A list of natural features found in each county was prepared from the PNDI data base and supplemented with information volunteered by local individuals and organizations familiar with Luzerne County. In May of 2000 a public meeting was held and recommended Natural Area Survey Forms (Appendix I) were distributed to facilitate public input. TNC staff solicited information about potential natural communities, plant species of special concern and important wildlife breeding areas from knowledgeable individuals and local conservation groups. A number of potential natural areas were identified by audience members and scheduled for field surveys.
Map and Air Photo Interpretation PSO ecologists familiarized themselves with the air photo characteristics of high quality natural communities already documented (Appendix II). Additional data from vegetation maps, soil-survey maps, field survey records and other sources were consulted to gain familiarity with Luzerne Countys natural systems. This information, along with references on physiography, geology, and soils, was used to interpret photos and designate probable vegetation types and potential locations for exemplary communities and rare species. In many instances, vegetation was classified at an ecosystem level, and it was therefore critical that an ecologist or person with similar training interpret the maps and aerial photos.
Work progressed systematically within the area encompassed by each USGS topographic map. The natural area potential of all parcels of land was assessed using aerial photographs. Areas continuing into adjacent counties were examined in their entirety. Topographic maps used during field surveys were marked to indicate locations and types of potential natural areas based on characteristics observed on the photos. For example, an uneven canopy with tall canopy trees could indicate an older forest; a forest opening, combined with information from geology and soils maps, could indicate a seepage swamp community with potential for several rare plant species. Baseline information on sites appearing to have good quality communities or potential for rare species was compiled to help prioritize field work.
After an initial round of photo interpretation, field surveys were conducted to evaluate the potential natural areas that were actually on the ground. Locations with minimally disturbed natural communities or with species of special concern were outlined on topographic quadrangle maps. The photo signatures (characteristic patterns, texture, tone of vegetation, and other features on the photos) of these sites were then used as a guide for continued photo interpretation and future field surveys. Photo signatures with poor quality sites led to the elimination of further field work on other sites with similar signatures.
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Field Work Experienced PSO biologists and contractors conducted numerous field surveys throughout Luzerne County from Summer 1999 through Fall 2000. Biologists evaluated the degree of naturalness of habitats (including assessment of percent of native vs. non-native plant species, degree of human disturbance, age of trees, etc.) and searched for plant and animal species of special concern. Workers categorized the vegetation of each potential natural area visited. An evaluation of quality was made for each potential natural community element, care being taken to give reasons for the quality rank. Boundaries of the community types were redrawn, if needed, based on new field information. Community information recorded included the dominant, common, and other species, as well as disturbances to the community.
Field forms were completed for all occurrences of sensitive plant and animal species, and natural communities (see sample Plant & Animal Survey Form, Appendix III), the quality of each population or community was assessed, and locations were marked on USGS topographic quadrangle maps.
In May of 2000 two low altitude reconnaissance flights were flown over the county to provide a more accurate overview of the current condition and extent of known natural areas and to assess the potential of any additional areas.
Data Analysis To organize the natural features data and set conservation priorities, each natural community or species (element) is ranked using factors of rarity and threat on a state-wide (state element ranking) and range-wide (global element ranking) basis (see Appendix IV). Each location of a species (an element occurrence) is ranked according to naturalness, its potential for future survival or recovery, its extent or population size, and any threats to it. An explanation of the five element occurrence quality ranks is given in Appendix V. The element-ranking and element occurrence-ranking systems help PSO personnel to simultaneously gauge the singular importance of each occurrence of, for example, a pitch pine-scrub oak barren community, rough-leaved aster, or bog copper in Luzerne County, as well as the state-wide or world-wide importance of these natural features. Obviously, sites with a greater number of highly-ranked elements merit more immediate attention than sites with a smaller number of lower ranked elements.
Field data for natural communities of C-rank or better, and for all plant and animal species of concern found were combined with existing data and summarized on PNDI Element Occurrence Records for mapping and computerization. Mapped locations of natural features, including approximate watershed or subwatershed boundaries, were then created and added electronically to PNDIs Geographical Information System (GIS) layer.
Information on the needs of the rare species in this report has come from a variety of sources, including field guides and research publications. For reptiles and amphibians, the major source is DeGraaf and Rudis (1981); for birds, Brauning (1992); for moths, Covell (1984); for butterflies, Opler and Krizek (1984) and Opler and Malikul (1992); Schweitzer (1981) provided much of the information on rare moth and butterfly species in Pennsylvania. A list of Plant and Animal of Special Concern in Luzerne County is provided in Appendix VI.
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Map Codes All natural communities, species of special concern, and significant geologic features are coded on the maps and described in the text. The codes are PNDI map codes that are unique to each element on a given USGS topographic map. Species are identified by code to prevent unauthorized collection and possible extirpation of the species at the site. NC identifies natural communities, plants by SP, animals by SA, and geologic features by GE. All are followed by a three-digit code. In some instances for a particular USGS quadrangle map, the identifiers are given in lower case (e.g., nc or sp). This indicates that the natural community, plant species, etc. does not occur on that quad map. It occurs on an adjacent map. However, the buffer for the site does occur on the quad map (with lower case identifiers). Anyone seeking information on an individual site or species location may call or write the Pennsylvania Science Office of TNC; please provide the map code(s) and the corresponding map name(s) where applicable.
Priorities for Protection Table 1 presented in the Summary and Recommendations section prioritizes sites with natural communities and rare species in Luzerne County. This table ranks sites from the most important and threatened to the least. Ranks are based on rarity, quality, and threats or management needs of the elements at the site. Table 1 lists the site name, topographic map, and pertinent information on importance, threats, management needs, and recommendations for protection of the element.
Locally Significant sites are also indicated on the maps, and are briefly discussed in the text accompanying each map. These are sites that do not have species of special concern or high-quality natural communities exemplary at the state level, but may be important at the county level. Examples would include relatively intact forested areas, large wetlands, and other areas significant for maintaining local biodiversity. These secondary sites are arranged in Table 2 in the Summary and Recommendations. They have been given qualitative ranks (high, medium, or low) according to size, level of disturbance, proximity to other open-space lands, and potential for sustaining a diversity of plant and animal life. These secondary-site ranks must be viewed as very approximate.
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RESULTS Each year biologists meet to discuss and rank the most important sites for the protection of biodiversity in Pennsylvania. This meeting consists of a review and ranking of all sites within the state, in terms of the rarity and quality of the species or habitats of concern, potential threats, and protection needs. The results of these meetings provide a baseline for evaluating the statewide significance of the sites recognized in the Natural Areas Inventory. The list of sites for Luzerne County was then evaluated and ranked in order of importance for conservation of biodiversity at a statewide level. The rankings do not reflect the relative protection status or urgency of conservation action of the sites.
The Natural Areas Inventory recognizes sites at two primary levels of significance for the protection of biological diversity: 1) sites of statewide importance and 2) sites of local significance. Sites of statewide importance support species of special concern, or have exemplary natural communities. These sites are listed in Table 1. Sites in this category that are ranked 1 or 2 may contain some of the best natural areas in the state. Locally significant sites are presented in Table 2. These areas provide locally significant habitat and may be suitable for environmental education, parks or preserves; no species of special concern or exemplary communities have been identified at the sites listed in Table 2.
Exceptional Natural Feature: The North Branch of the Susquehanna and Lehigh Rivers In considering the value of specific sites for the preservation of biological diversity it is important to note that these sites are dependent on the integrity of larger scale systems such as the North Branch of the Susquehanna River, the Lehigh River, and their tributaries. The North Branch of the Susquehanna River and its adjacent forested watersheds comprise one of the major corridors for the movement of biota in Pennsylvania. These forested corridors provide the habitat for resident species, the habitat required for migrating birds on a biannual basis, the habitat for resident and migratory aquatic animals, the habitat needed for the long term survival of plant species, and more. For example, an animal species of concern, the eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger vulpinus), has been reported to occur in forested areas and forested river islands of the North Branch of the Susquehanna in Luzerne County (Derge and Steele 1999). Additional surveys for this species are needed to determine the quality of the populations; however, the preservation of floodplain forests would greatly benefit the fox squirrel populations in the County.
The Lehigh River is listed as a High Quality Coldwater Fishery in the PA Code, Chapter 93 (1999) from its source to Tobyhanna Creek. The river has become a major recreational attraction for fishing and rafting. The Lehigh and its tributaries are also part of the historical range of the river otter (Lutra canadensis), and local residents have reported frequent otter sightings in this watershed.
In reviewing the report it is evident that many natural sites within the County are along the North Branch of the Susquehanna and Lehigh Rivers and their major tributaries. Along with these sites are areas that were beyond the scope of this project to fully investigate. Any intact natural areas in or adjacent to these waterways should be considered potential important habitat. The development of a comprehensive conservation plan for areas adjacent to the rivers and their tributaries, conducted in conjunction with other counties, may be the best tool for conserving these important natural resources.
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Top Priority Natural Areas in Luzerne County:
All of the natural areas in the county are important to maintaining biodiversity in the region and the state. However, the following sites from Table 1 are the most critical at present for maintaining Luzerne Countys biological diversity into the future (see Figure 1 for approximate locations of these sites).
More detailed descriptions and mapped locations of all sites are included in the Results section that follows.
ARBUTUS PEAK (Bear Creek, Dennison, Fairview, Hanover, & Wright Twps. & Laurel Run Boro.) Arbutus Peak oak barrens is a relatively large oak-barrens complex of 5,000 to 6,000 acres southeast of Wilkes Barre.
It is located on the ridgetops in the townships of Bear Creek, Dennison, Hanover, Fairview and Wright, and Laurel Run Borough. The site is separated into two sub areasone located northwest of Crystal Lake reservoir that includes Penobscot Mountain Barrens, and one located southwest of the lake that includes Arbutus Peak and Tunnel Road Barrens. The barrens are comprised of a complex of plant communities including Scrub Oak Shrubland, Low Heath Shrubland and Little Bluestem-Pennsylvania Sedge Opening (Fike 1999).
The open woodlands and shrub barrens require periodic disturbance. The primary driving forces creating and maintaining the barrens are fire, poor, dry, shallow soils and, in places, frost and wind.
Fires have been both natural and man - made. Fires have killed off trees and allowed the scrub oaks and other species to thrive. Scrub oak and the heath shrubs may actually promote fire due to their highly flammable leaves and debris (Latham et al 1996). The scrub oak and many of the blueberries sprout from the roots after a fire. Grasses and sedges respond well to the nutrients that are released and the exposure to sun. Pitch Pine (Pinus rigida), where it occurs, readily re-sprouts after a fire (unusual for a conifer). Unusual for these large barrens systems is the amount of wetlands adjacent to the dry barrens. In Pennsylvania, only Long Pond Barrens in Monroe County appears to have more wetland associated with the barrens.
Fifteen rare invertebrate animal species are found associated with the barrens and adjacent wetlands and more wait to be found. Four plant species of special concern are also found within the barrens.
There are only minimal threats to these species posed by trail and mountain bikes and development such as radio and cell towers. Some of the disturbance seems to actually benefit the species.
Arbutus Peak is one of the top sites in the county and may be one of the richest barrens for butterfly and moth animal groups in the Northeast. Based on comments received from zoologists in New York and New Jersey, this barrens complex should be a high priority for conservation in Pennsylvania. (Freeland, White Haven, Wilkes-Barre East, & Wilkes-Barre West quadrangles).
EDGEWOOD VERNAL POOLS (Butler Twp.). This site is one of the top priority sites in Luzerne County. It contains a good example of an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community (NC513). The site is located on and adjacent to Nescopeck Mountain, near the southern boundary of the last glacial advance. The dozens of pools occupy topographic depressions created by small ice blocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. This site provides valuable breeding habitat for many amphibians.
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A large ice-block depression swamp of mixed hardwoods and hemlock is found near the southern edge of the vernal pool area. A good-to excellent-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species exists in the stream that drains this swamp (a tributary to Long Run). Two populations of another PA-Rare plant species were found at the site in 1990, growing along an ATV trail and in openings in the young oak forest surrounding the vernal pools. Neither of these were rediscovered during visits in 1999 and 2000, and one of the locations has been developed. A globally rare invertebrate species was also discovered at this site in 1990; although portions of the habitat for this species has been developed, additional surveys in the surrounding oak forest are recommended.
Commercial development has destroyed some areas of the woods and pools south of I-80 near Edgewood. Other disturbances include foot traffic from nearby trails. The nearby roadways pose a threat to amphibians when they migrate to the pools in spring. Vernal pools are extremely important, fragile habitats that are facing statewide pressure from development and other human disturbances (e.g., ATV traffic). Consequently, sites containing vernal pools should be a top priority for conservation in the county (Freeland quadrangle).
INDEFATIGABLE SWAMP (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County and Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County). Indefatigable Swamp is a large and diverse forested seepage swamp with a variety of different habitats, three rare plant species and one animal species of concern on State Game Lands #57. The swamp was designated as a marginal- to good-quality Boreal Conifer Swamp Natural Community. There is no sign of current human activity in the swamp, and portions of the second growth spruce forest are beginning to mature. Heavy logging, road-building or other direct disturbances would be a threat to the continued recovery of this site as would disturbances to the surrounding hydrology (Dutch Mountain & Sweet Valley quadrangles).
NESCOPECK CREEK VALLEY (Butler and Dennison Twps). This large natural area is centered about the upper watershed of Nescopeck Creek, encompassing portions of Nescopeck State Park and State Game Lands #187, and bordered by the Arbutus Peak site to the north. At least five rare animal and seven rare plant species have been documented from the site, occupying a variety of wetland and upland habitats.
Disturbances to the site include Lake Francis and other impoundments along the Creek, a variety of ATV and jeep trails, logging, management activities in the State Game Lands, and recent construction of facilities for the State Park. Despite these disturbances, the valley is largely forested and undisturbed by past anthracite mining. Efforts should be made to manage the park to protect the wild nature of much of the valley (especially by protecting the forests along the Creek tributaries) and the associated species of concern (Freeland, White Haven, & Wilkes-Barre East).
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During the Natural Areas Inventory survey new populations of Jacobs Ladder, a PA-Endangered plant, were found in Luzerne County.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 17
TABLE 1.
SUMMARY
OF THE SITES OF STATEWIDE SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY IN LUZERNE COUNTY IN APPROXIMATE ORDER OF PRIORITY FROM THE MOST IMPORTANT (RANK = 1) TO THE LEAST (RANK = 5). THE PRESENCE OF SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN AND/OR EXEMPLARY NATURAL COMMUNITIES HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED AT THESE SITES. MORE IN-DEPTH INFORMATION ON EACH SITE INCLUDING DETAILED SITE DESCRIPTIONS AND MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS WHERE APPROPRIATE CAN BE FOUND IN THE TEXT FOLLOWING EACH QUADRANGLE MAP AND TABLE.
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 1 ARBUTUS PEAK Freeland; This Ridgetop Dwarf Tree Forest Natural Community has four plant species and (Bear Creek, Dennison, White Haven; fifteen invertebrate species of concern. Arbutus Peak is one of the top sites in the county and may be one of the richest barrens for butterfly and moth animal groups Fairview, Hanover, & Wright Wilkes-Barre in the Northeast. Based on comments received in our office from zoologists in Twps. & Laurel Run Boro.) East; New York and New Jersey, this barrens complex should be a high priority for Wilkes-Barre West conservation in Pennsylvania. There are only minimal threats to these species posed by trail and mountain bikes and development such as radio and cell towers.
Some of the disturbance seems to actually benefit the species.
1 EDGEWOOD VERNAL Freeland This site is one of the top priority sites in Luzerne County. It contains a good POOLS (Butler Twp.) example of an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community (NC513). The site is located on and adjacent to Nescopeck Mountain, near the southern boundary of the last glacial advance. The dozens of pools occupy topographic depressions created by small ice blocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. This site provides valuable breeding habitat for amphibians. Wood frogs (Rana sylvatica), spotted salamanders (Ambystomata maculatum), and Jefferson salamanders (Ambystomata jeffersonianum) were observed using the pools to breed in 2000, and many additional pools remain to be surveyed.
A large ice-block depression swamp of mixed hardwoods and hemlock is found near the southern edge of the vernal pool area. A good- to excellent-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP511) exists in the stream that drains this 1
Sites are ranked from 1 to 5 with 1 being the highest priority sites for protection based on state or national significance, and 5 indicating the lowest priority for protection. Ranks take into account potential threats, management needs, and existing protection. Sites of similar rank are listed alphabetically by quadrangle.
2 See Appendix I of the original NAI for an explanation of Global and State vulnerability ranks.
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County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 swamp (a tributary to Long Run). Two populations of another PA-Rare plant species (SP512 & SP513) were found at the site in 1990, growing along an ATV trail and in openings in the young oak forest surrounding the vernal pools. Neither of these were rediscovered during visits in 1999 and 2000, and one of the locations has been developed. A globally rare invertebrate species (SA514) was also discovered at this site in 1990; although portions of the habitat for this species have been developed, additional surveys in the surrounding oak forest are recommended.
Commercial development has destroyed some areas of the woods and pools south of I-80 near Edgewood. Other disturbances include foot traffic from nearby trails.
The nearby roadways pose a threat to amphibians when they migrate to the pools in spring. Vernal pools are extremely important, fragile habitats that are facing statewide pressure from development and other human disturbances (e.g., ATV traffic). Consequently, sites containing vernal pools should be a top priority for conservation in the county.
1 INDEFATIGABLE SWAMP Dutch Indefatigable Swamp is a large and diverse forested seepage swamp with a variety (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County Mountain; of different habitats, three rare plant species (SP532, SP533, and SP534) and one animal species of concern (SA533) on SGL #57. The swamp was designated as a and Forkston Twp. in Sweet Valley marginal-to good-quality Boreal Conifer Swamp Natural Community (NC534).
Wyoming County) There is no sign of current human activity in the swamp, and portions of the second growth spruce forest are beginning to mature. Heavy logging, road-building or other direct disturbances would be a threat to the continued recovery of this site as would disturbances to the surrounding hydrology. Additional surveys are recommended to monitor the plant and animal species of concern.
1 NESCOPECK CREEK Freeland; This large natural area is centered about the upper watershed of Nescopeck Creek, VALLEY White Haven; encompassing portions of Nescopeck State Park and SGL #187, and bordered by the Arbutus Peak site to the north. At least five rare animal and seven rare plant species (Butler and Dennison Twps) Wilkes-Barre East have been documented from the site, occupying a variety of wetland and upland habitats. Disturbances to the site include Lake Francis and other impoundments along the Creek, a variety of ATV and jeep trails, logging, management activities in the SGL 20
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 and recent construction of facilities for the State Park. Despite these disturbances, the valley is largely forested and undisturbed by past anthracite mining. Efforts should be made to manage the park to protect the wild nature of much of the valley (especially by protecting the forests along the Creek tributaries) and the associated species of concern.
2 BRIGGSVILLE VERNAL Berwick This site contain a series of vernal pools making up an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool POOLS Natural Community (NC515) north of the Nescopeck mountain. Vernal pools are extremely important, fragile habitats that are facing statewide pressure from (Nescopeck Twp.) development and other human disturbances (e.g., ATV traffic). Consequently, sites containing vernal pools should be a top priority for conservation in the county. One of the current landowners would like to preserve his property and has expressed an interest in having a conservancy purchase the property.
2 CAMPBELLS LEDGE Pittston; Campbells Ledge is situated on the summit of a ridge overlooking the (Pittston Twp.) Ransom Susquehanna River and provides a spectacular view of the river valley. This unique site was identified as a Northern Appalachian Calcareous Cliff Natural Community (NC501) and a Northern Appalachian Calcareous Rocky Summit Natural Community (NC502). Also, the state classified this area as a unique geologic feature (Erosional Remnant-GE501) in 1979. The vegetation in these areas, consisting of scrubby woodland, shrub thickets, and small herb-dominated openings, provide the habitat for seven state-listed plant species of special concern, as well as a number of other plant species that are infrequent in the state. An additional twelve state-listed plant species of special concern are known historically from Campbells Ledge, but have not been confirmed in recent years; several of these species are of limestone affinity. There is also an historic record of an animal species of concern at the Ledge, but additional surveys are needed to confirm the presence of the species.
In contrast to the vegetation of the cliffs and dry slopes, the stream that exits Falling Springs Reservoir and descends the northwestern portion of the ridge drains a cool, moist ravine that features a waterfall and supports a mesic flora, including the American yew (Taxus canadensis). The disturbances on the ridge 21
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 include previous logging, previous mining, numerous jeep and ATV trails, exotic plant species, and litter. The habitat in the vicinity of the outlook has been degraded by excessive foot and vehicular traffic. Potential threats include development and additional logging. The site, which extends to the Ransom quadrangle, should continue to be monitored.
2 CRANBERRY POND Nanticoke Cranberry Pond is a fair- to good-quality example of an Oligotrophic Glacial (Slocum Twp.) Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (NC503), and it is located on private property.
A good quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP525A) is one of the dominant species of over much of the floating mat. A fair-quality population of another plant species of concern (SP525B) occurs in mucky depressions near the edge of the open water, with many of the same associated species. Both of these populations are reproducing and no immediate threats or management needs are apparent. The site also has an extraordinary diversity of amphibians, including the only Luzerne County occurrence of the northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans crepitans), and at least nine different species of salamanders.
This is one of the top priority sites for conservation in Luzerne County. There is a good diversity of bog flora and potential for additional plant as well as animal species of concern to be found. Cranberry Pond is hydrologically linked to adjacent glacial wetlands (Folstown Mud Pond, Lily Lake). The health of the natural community and its associated species will depend on maintaining water quality throughout the watershed - upstream, upslope on Penobscot Mountain, and downstream at Lily Lake. The pond, the surrounding forest, and adjacent lands are owned by the farm south of the site. Efforts should be made to assist the landowner in continuing to protect this unique site for the future.
2 DOGTOWN MINES Shickshinny This site on SGL #260 contains a series of underground mine portals. Two animal (Salem Twp.) species of concern were captured near one of the mine entrances. SA506 is a G4 species, while SA507 is Federally and PA-Endangered. Threats to the species include mine collapse, logging of the woods near the mines, and coal extraction.
Placing gates across the mine openings would also help to protect the species of 22
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 concern.
2 DORRANCE BOG (Dorrance Sybertsville This site is one of the top sites for preservation in Luzerne County. It is a classic Twp.) kettlehole bog with a floating mat at its center, and it is the best example of an Oligotrophic Glacial Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (NC503) in Luzerne County. A good- to fair-quality population of a plant species of concern (SP503B) occurs along the edge of the bog. A fair- to poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP503A) occurs in shaded habitat.
Draining, peat mining, or excessive visitation are the only likely future threats to the natural community. The current landowners have owned the site for many years. They should be commended for their stewardship and assisted with the protection of the site for the future.
2 GLEN LYON ANTHRACITE Nanticoke One Federally Threatened animal species (SA512A) and another PA animal species MINE SITE of concern (SA512B) occupy the same man-made habitat at this site. To persist, the species require not only the mine as a hibernacula, but also adequate nearby (Newport Twp.) feeding areas. There is some evidence of human disturbance within the mine entrance, and of litter and use of the site as a party spot. The site needs to have continued monitoring of the populations and protection of the mine entrance by gating or other means to prevent disturbance of the rare species.
2 HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN Wilkes-Barre West This site is a good to excellent quality high elevation (1,600-1,870 feet) Northern (Rice, Fairview, and Hanover Appalachian Acidic Rock Summit Natural Community (NC501) characterized by open, rocky areas with sparse vegetation. Since 1996, five plant species of concern Twps.) were identified at the site. The wildfires that periodically burn the area are actually good for the plant species that grow in this natural community. Fire suppression and trash dumping are potential threats to the plants.
2 KITCHEN CREEK RAVINES Red Rock The gorge and waterfalls host a unique assortment of plant life including four plant (Fairmount Twp.) species of concern. Two of the plant species found at this site are PA-Endangered (SP514 & SA537B). Additional searches in nearby drainages and the continued 23
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 monitoring of this site are recommended. A wooded buffer should be maintained along the waterfalls and ravines. The ravines are protected within Ricketts Glen State Park and The Glens Natural Area.
2 LEE SWAMP Harveys This site located on private property is the 40 -50 acre former bed of Lee Pond that was (Lake Twp.) Lake drained in the 1950's. The substrate over much of the area is deep, quaking peat. Five different bird species of special concern have been observed breeding at Lee Swamp in recent years and there is potential habitat for several other listed bird species. Despite past disturbances the site today is one of the largest marshes in the county and clearly provides good nesting habitat for the species of concern. There is no evidence of recent disturbance. Potential threats include runoff from surrounding agricultural fields, or changes in the water level that could hasten succession from the current marshy habitat favorable to the species of concern.
2 PERRINS MARSH Center Perrins Marsh is a shallow (1-2 meters deep) man-made pond located on private (Northumberland Twp. in Moreland property on the Wyoming/Luzerne County border. A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP503A) species was first identified at the site in 1993. The site Wyoming County and Franklin was revisited in 1999 and SP503A is still present. A new good-quality PA-Twp. in Luzerne County) Endangered, S1 plant (SP503B) population was identified at the site during the 1999 visit. This thriving population is the first known occurrence of the plant species in Eastern Pennsylvania. A 1994 survey of the site identified twelve species of dragonflies and two species of damselflies. Eleven of the species observed were never identified in the county before. Disturbances include a high Canada geese population, but the geese do not appear to be impacting the plant species of concern. The site should continue to be monitored and surrounding locations (e.g., Cummings Pond) should be visited to search for additional populations of these plants of concern and wading bird species of concern. The use of an aquatic herbicide or dramatically changing the water level are the greatest potential threats to the marsh.
3 BALD MOUNTAIN ROAD Avoca This site, which is designated as a marginal to good - quality example of a Boreal SWAMP Conifer Swamp Natural Community (NC532), is located near the headwaters of the 24
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 (Bear Creek Twp.) Bear Creek drainage. The site appears to be ideal habitat for several plant species of concern, though no rare plant species were seen during this visit. A bird species of concern has been observed in the area, although no nests have been found. The site is on SGL #91. Allowing the site to mature further will enhance the quality of the natural community.
3 BEAR HOLLOW Harveys This site contains a nesting area for an S3S4B,S4N animal species of concern (SA515)
(Lake Twp.) Lake in a small, open wetland along the small stream draining Bear Hollow. Bear Hollow itself is an isolated eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) hollow with a remarkable diversity of breeding amphibian species occupying the stream and several small vernal pools. A small dirt road parallels the stream, and some trash has been left in the vernal pools. Leaving the road unimproved and protecting the stream and pools should benefit both the species of concern and the great diversity of other plant and animal species occupying the site.
3 BOULDER RUN SWAMP Sweet Valley This site is an Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural Community (NC521) near the edge of (Ross & Lake Twps.) the Allegheny Front. A PA-Rare shrub (SP521) is a dominant plant in the low-shrub swamp.
Two breeding occurrences of a PA-Threatened animal species (SA522 & SA523) were documented. There is no sign of recent habitat disturbance at the site, although the early succcessional stage suggests beaver activity in the past. The preservation of the existing hydrology is important for the plant species found in the swamp. Additional surveys are needed to access the quality of the animal species. Logging in or near the swamp are possible threats to the site. The site is located on SGL #57.
3 DRECK CREEK Hazleton This site, which is owned by the City Water Authority of Hazleton, consists of a WATERSHED narrow, wooded stream valley with a small perennial stream that flows into a series of wetlands and eventually a reservoir that is used for public drinking water. A (Hazle Twp.) good-quality population of a PA-Endangered plant species (SP510B) and a fair-quality population of another plant species of concern (SP510A) occur here.
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County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 Runoff or other disturbance from logging in the adjacent forest, and flooding of the wetland by the reservoir are potential threats to the plant species of concern. An animal species of concern (SA511) was discovered using rocky habitat along a powerline ROW south of Dreck Creek. Additional surveys are needed to determine the status of this population. In addition, two rare Lepidopteran species (SA512A
& SA512B) were identified. Logging of the site and gypsy moth spraying would be detrimental to these species.
3 DRYLAND HILL POOLS Pleasant View This site consists of two large vernal pools in a matrix of typical dry, acid, oak-(Bucks Twp.) Summit heath forest. The substrate is hemic/sappric sedge peat. A plant species of concern (SP532) is the dominant plant in the larger pool and is also present in the second pool. A deer trail runs through the site, but no browse was seen on the plant species of concern. An S2 animal species of concern (SA532) was identified in 1999. This inconspicuous invertebrate animal species uses cranberry as its host plant. The spraying of pesticides or herbicides is a potential threat for SA532.
The woods to the south have been heavily logged recently. The long -term threats to the site would be succession from shrub-thicket margins of pools, and human disturbance by draining or dumping of logging slash in pools. Buffering the pools from logging would protect both species of concern from harmful disturbance. The North Branch Land Trust is working on protection for this site.
3 FRANCIS E. WALTER Hickory Run; Three occurrences of a PA-Threatened animal species (sa511, sa533, & SA533)
RESERVOIR SITE Pleasant View have been monitored at the reservoir area for many years. The species feeds at the reservoir and therefore is dependent on the water quality of Bear Creek and the (Bear Creek Twp.) Summit Lehigh River. The population of the animal species has grown in recent years.
The protection of large trees and snags along the waterways is important for the species. Two additional animal species of concern (SA503A & SA503B) occupy the Lehigh River gorge below the dam, using the rock outcrops and cliffs on both sides of the river. This portion of the river is used for recreational boating; care should be taken not to disturb the rock outcrops and overhangs that provide habitat for this species. Additional surveys are needed to evaluate the quality of the 26
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 animal populations.
A PA-Rare plant species (SP531) occurs on a privately-owned pond near the reservoir. This plant species thrives in areas with good water quality.
Sedimentation in the pond or the use of herbicides are potential threats to the plant population of concern.
3 GARDNER CREEK Pittston This site consists of an extensive rock outcrop area north of the Gardner Creek RESERVOIR reservoir. An animal species of concern exists at the site (SA537). There are no apparent disturbances to the site at this time. An extensive clearcut or development (Jenkins & Plains Twps.) of the site are potential threats. Additional surveys are needed to determine the status of the animal population.
3 HUMBOLDT BARREN Conyngham This site is a Ridgetop Dwarf Tree Forest Natural Community (NC508) on a broad, (Hazle Twp.) high-elevation (1500-1700 ft) ridgetop. The site is unusual among Luzerne County ridgetop barrens in having pitch pine (Pinus rigida) that is at least as abundant as scrub oak over much of the site. Disturbances include a large utility line, a network of gravel roads that may act as firebreaks, and mine tailings at the border of the Natural Community. Fire suppression, chemical maintenance of the powerline R-O-W. (observed in 2000), logging for pulpwood, and ATV use are potential threats to the site.
3 LAKE JEAN Red Rock This site within Ricketts Glen State Park is a shallow man-made lake that was (Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne formerly the site of two smaller lakes, one natural and one man-made. A fair- to good-quality population of SP505 was last seen in 1996. SP506 is a good-quality Co. & Colley Twp. in Sullivan population of a PA-Threatened aquatic plant species. SP545 is a small, easily Co.) overlooked, aquatic species found in shallow water near one edge of the lake. At least 30 individuals of an invertebrate animal species of concern (SA543) were seen at the lake margin. This species appears to be doing well at this site and appears to tolerate recreational lake activities if the natural vegetation persists at the lake edge. In 2000, two additional invertebrate species of concern (SA555 &
SA558) were discovered.
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County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 If the park uses herbicides to control aquatic weeds in the lake, the practice should be closely evaluated and monitored to avoid either direct impacts on the rare plant species (SP505, SP506, & SP545) or indirect impacts on the animals of special concern (SA543, SA555, & SA558). Use of pesticides (including Bt) in and around the lake could also impact the animals of concern. . A small portion of this site is within Sullivan County.
3 LAKE LEIGH Red Rock Three plant species of concern (SP542A, SP542B, & SP543C) occupy boggy (Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne habitat on the bottom of this drained lake. A dam at its south end is no longer functional, but the site has been impacted by repeated flooding and draining. A Co. & Colley Twp. in Sullivan small population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP553) was found growing in a Co.) young red maple/hemlock swamp just east of Lake Leigh. The site has a history of disturbance including changes in hydrology and wind thrown trees from a storm that passed through this area a couple of years ago. No current threats are evident.
The site should be monitored in the future. A small portion of this site is within Sullivan County.
3 LEHIGH GORGE Hickory Run Two animal species of concern (SA534A & SA534B) have been observed using this (Foster Twp. in Luzerne Co. & area. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the populations. No management of the two species is needed at this time.
Kidder Twp. in Carbon Co.)
3 LEHIGH RIVER-ROUTE 115 Pleasant View Two aquatic plant species of concern (SP505 & SP526) were identified at the site in BRIDGE Summit; 1991 and 1992. The river was revisited in 1999 and a fair-quality population of SP505 was once again found at the site. A great deal of siltation in the river was noted. The (Buck Twp. in Luzerne Co. & Hickory Run; continued siltation and degradation of water quality of the Lehigh River are potential Tobyhanna Twp. in Monroe Thornhurst threats.
Co.)
3 LILY LAKE Nanticoke This site is a natural glacial lake downstream of the Cranberry Pond site. Three (Conyngham and Slocum plant species of concern occur at the site (SP510A, SP510B, and SP513). Care 28
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 Twps.) should be taken to preserve the windward (southeastern) sandy shoreline areas from disturbance, and to maintain a no-wake zone here to prevent excessive shoreline erosion by waves.
3 MUD POND WOODS Pleasant View This site consists of a moist second growth oak-heath forest. A globally rare (Bear Creek Twp.) Summit invertebrate species (SA541) was found here at several locations in 2000. The species is dependent upon the fly-poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum) that is abundant in the groundcover, particularly in the slightly more mesic areas. The threats to the species include logging, the use of herbicides, or spraying for gypsy moth.
3 NANTICOKE MARSH Wilkes-Barre West; This site is one of the largest cattail (Typha latifolia) marshes in Luzerne County.
(Nanticoke Boro, Hanover Nanticoke It is located on the Susquehanna River floodplain adjacent to the City of Nanticoke. Three animal species of concern have been found using this habitat in Twp.) recent years (SA535A, SA535B, & SA535C). Draining of the marsh or pesticide use are potential threats. The Earth Conservancy owns portions of this site.
Additional surveys are recommended to monitor the extent and success of the rare species populations at the site.
3 NESCOPECK MOUNTAIN Freeland This site is an example of a Ridgetop Dwarf-Tree Forest Natural Community (NC507).
BARRENS It mainly consists of a scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) forest stretching across several summit areas along a sandstone ridgetop. Some of the pitch pines show evidence of (Dennison and Wright Twps.) past fires that are a natural process necessary to maintain the plant community. This habitat is also appropriate for rare Lepidopteran species; although none have been found at this site, several are found in similar habitat at the adjacent Arbutus Peak site.
This site is part of SGL #187.
3 NUANGOLA LAKE Wilkes-Barre West This is a large glacial lake, likely once an extensive bog lake before the outlet at its (Nuangola Boro.) south end was dammed. Five different plants and one animal species of concern are found here, both in the lake itself and in the remnant bog mats around its edges.
All of the plant species appear to be doing well. The aquatic species are dependent on maintaining the water quality of the lake. Because the lake shore has numerous 29
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 cottages and homes and additional development has been proposed, eutrophy is a threat.
3 PIPELINE SWAMP Pleasant View This site is a good-quality example of an Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural Community (Bear Creek Twp.) Summit (NC530). A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP530) was found growing in the open portion of this wetland. The land use is recreational (mostly hunting) and is part of SGL # 91. A gas pipeline is adjacent to the west-side of the bog. The bog probably extended further west at one time, but this area was destroyed when the pipeline was created. The threats include maintenance activities associated with nearby pipeline, some deer browse, and beaver activity.
Management implications include no spraying of herbicides in the vicinity of the bog and no additional widening of the pipeline R-O-W. No current beaver activity was noted during the field visit, but control of the beaver population may be needed if they once again move into this area. The current site hydrology should be maintained.
3 STATE GAME LANDS #57 Sweet Valley; This area has extensive south-southeast facing rocks and rock outcrops. Four (Ross & Lake Twps.) Dutch Mt. separate occurrences of an animal species of concern have been documented.
Further extensive surveys are needed to adequately survey this area. The overgrown portions of the site may actually benefit from a very limited selective cut during the winter to remove larger trees shading the site.
3 STOCKTON MT. BARRENS Hazleton This area includes a fair-quality example of a Ridgetop Dwarf-Tree Forest Natural (Hazle Twp.) Community (NC509). A globally rare Lepidopteran species (SA512A) and a second rare Lepidopteran species (SA512B) were discovered to the south of the Barrens in limited surveys over the course of this study making additional searches warranted.
The surrounding area is highly disturbed. The city of Hazleton owns the western edge of the site, and extensive coal mining and other industrial activity has taken place to the north and to the south. The site is also bisected by several powerline R-O-Ws, one paved road, and various ATV trails. Portions of the site burned in the 1990s and the natural community is fire-dependent. Minimizing loss of habitat from ATV activity and maintaining the scrub oak and pitch pine will benefit the rare 30
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 moth species present.
3 VALMONT INDUSTRIAL Conyngham This site is a sloping area of shallow peat and acidic seeps dominated by sphagnum PARK moss (Sphagnum sp.) and sedge (Carex sp.) species. The combination of the high-elevation acidic seep and the open areas created by disturbances, provides habitat (Hazle Twp.) for seven rare plant species (SP506A, SP506B, SP506C, SP506D, SP506E, SP509A, & SP509B) and an animal species (SA506). Increased use of the trail to the site by ATVs, spraying of the powerline R-O-W with herbicide, increasing surrounding development, and changes in hydrology are among the chief threats to this vulnerable and unique habitat. Steps should be taken to assist the surrounding landowners and municipalities in preserving this unique site and the rare elements it contains.
3 WYOMING MOUNTAIN Wilkes-Barre This site is part of a mosaic of a Ridgetop Dwarf Tree Forest Natural Community BARRENS (Bear Creek East; (NC501 & NC504) stretching along the ridgetop from Bald Mountain southwest to Penobscot Mountain. A PA-Rare plant species (SP524) was identified at the site. Fire Twp.) P. View Summit is beneficial to this plant and plant community. Development and fire suppression and the use of herbicides are potential threats. Part of this site is within SGL #91.
4 ABRAHAMS CREEK Kingston The site consists of creek-side wetlands impacted by flooding from the damming of WETLANDS the creek downstream in Frances Slocum State Park. Two animal species of concern (SA505A & SA505B) occupy a herbaceous wetland where the creek enters (Kingston Twp.) the reservoir, and another species of concern (SA504) breeds in a flooded forested wetland to the north. More habitat data is needed on this site, but the species of concern have been recorded using the site for several years. The preservation of large trees is important to SA504. Maintaining the water quality of the Abrahams Creek and stable water levels during growing season will benefit the species of concern.
4 BEAR CREEK AT SHADES Pleasant View The rocky and coarse sandy substrate of the creek provides habitat for a good-CREEK Summit quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP537). No deer browsing of the plants was seen. The water quality and the present hydrology of the streams should (Bear Creek Twp.)
31
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 be maintained, as well as a forested buffer along the stream banks.
4 BENTON STATION FIELDS Red Rock An S3,G4 invertebrate animal species (SA557) was identified at this site in Ricketts (Fairmount Twp.) Glen State Park. The threats to the animal species include mowing of the field in the spring and summer when the larvae are feeding on vegetation. A rotating schedule of mowing that includes mowing one third of the field every year in late October is optimal for maintaining habitat for the species of concern. A field with mowed and unmowed areas provides a variety of vegetation height and structure. Additionally, at least six inches of stubble must be left as a vegetative buffer for overwintering eggs and larvae. In 2001, two plant species of concern were discovered (SP562A &
SP562B). This site may be partially impacted by the current logging activities in the park. The field should be restored upon the conclusion of the logging.
4 CANADA BOG Pleasant View The site is a fairly intact floating Oligotrophic Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (Bear Creek Twp.) Summit (NC539) surrounded by a beaver-impacted spruce and tall shrub swamp. The substrate is a deep sphagnous peat. A plant species of special concern (SP539) occurs in the center of the bog in low mucky pools and was associated with sundews (Drosera intermedia) and yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.).
A beaver dam and impoundment exists north of the Natural Community. The Canada Bog may have been affected by fluctuating water levels in the past, but remains one of the few intact floating bogs in the county. Additional flooding by beaver or draining by humans are the only identifiable threats. A portion of this site lies on SGL #91.
4 COUNTY LINE SWAMP Lopez County Line Swamp is found on SGL #57. Two PA-Rare plant species (SP567A &
(Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne SP567B) were identified at the site in 1993. The populations of both rare plant species are healthy and there does not appear to be any threats. New locations of an County, Forkston Twp in S3B, S3 animal species (SA581) were discovered in SGL #57 in April of 1995.
Wyoming County, & Colley Additional surveys are needed to determine the numbers of this species present in Twp. in Sullivan County) the SGLs. The preservation of snags and older trees would benefit this animal.
The majority of this site lies in Wyoming County.
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County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 4 HELLS KITCHEN Freeland This site contains an excellent-quality population of a G4, PA-Rare plant species of (Butler Twp.) concern (SP503). The site has a history of disturbance for a residential development and past and present mining activities. The plant species at the site should continue to be monitored.
4 HELLS KITCHEN Freeland A G4 animal species (SA517) was discovered at this mine site in 1993, but ANTHRACITE MINE additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of this population.
Disturbance of the site from continued mining is a potential threat.
(Butler Twp.)
4 HOBBIE MEADOW Sybertsville This private property contains a young forest (20-30 years) that was formerly (Hollenback Twp.) farmed or used as pasture. A fair to good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP504) was found at this site along a mowed path. The plants could be out
-competed by other species like Virginia creeper or poison ivy. Also the trees may be shading-out SP504 as the forest stand becomes older. Lastly, deer browse may be affecting the plants. Maintaining the mowed path and periodic mowing of the small clearings will help the rare plant population found at this site. The control of the deer population by allowing hunting on the property would also be helpful.
4 ICE CAVES Kingston This Talus Cave Natural Community (NC502) on private property has ice caves and (Jackson & Plymouth Twps.) a waterfall that drops 50 feet into a high gradient hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) ravine. The massive ice formations are present into mid-March. This area was last visited in 1982 and should be revisited to obtain updated information and to assess conservation needs.
4 KIRBY PARK Wilkes-Barre West This site is a municipal park that includes a large silver maple (50 + feet)
(Kingston Boro.) ; floodplain forest along the Susquehanna River. A population of a PA animal species of concern (SA532) exists at this site and on nearby river islands (Richard Kingston & Monocanock Islands). Both the floodplain and the river islands are seasonally flooded. One current threat to the animal population is a proposed inflatable dam that could cause inundation of this floodplain or the river islands. Changes in the 33
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 hydrology could kill the large trees used by the animal species of concern at the site. The present hydrology (seasonal flooding) should be maintained. The same animal species of concern occurs at various floodplain forest sites along the Susquehanna River throughout much of the county. These sites are not mapped, as more descriptive information on the status of these populations is needed.
4 MOUNTAIN SPRINGS Sweet Valley This site is the drained bed of a man-made lake known as Lake #1 or Splash Dam LAKES located in a mountainous area along Bowmans Creek. The land is public and is maintained by the PA Game Commission and The PA Fish & Boat Commission.
(Fairmount & Ross Twps.) A functional lake (Lake #2), which is used for public fishing, is found to the west and is included as part of this site. Four plant species of concern (SP512A, B, C, &
D) were identified in Lake #1 and four were identified in Lake #2 (SP513A, B, C,
& D). The species of concern at both Lake #1 and Lake #2 should continue to thrive if the current land use is maintained.
4 NUANGOLA RAILROAD Wilkes-Barre West A small population of an animal species of concern has been documented in this TUNNEL tunnel on SGL #207. Additional habitat information is needed. The animal species is periodically monitored by the PA Game Commission.
(Rice Twp.)
4 OPOSSUM SWAMP Dutch Opossum Swamp is a large wetland mostly composed of low shrubs less than 2 meters (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County Mountain; tall within SGL #57. Two PA-Rare plant species of concern (SP524A & SP524B) were identified in 1995. There is good potential for other rare species including birds,
& Forkston Twp. in Wyoming mammals and more rare plants within this wetland and in the others found on the County) plateau.
4 PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN Wilkes-Barre West; The area consists of an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community (NC526)
RIDGETOP Nanticoke in a matrix of dry oak-heath forest. Rock outcrops and openings provide habitat for two plant species of concern (SP502 & SP522) along the same ridgetop farther (Hanover, Newport, Rice, & east. The pools have good potential for use by a variety of herptiles. Additional Slocum Twps.) landowner information, early spring surveys, and mapping the extent of the natural community are needed.
34
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 4 RED BEAR SWAMP Pleasant View This site is a small high-elevation wetland dominated by sedges (Carex stricta),
(Bear Creek Twp.) Summit large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.).
An invertebrate species of concern (SA538) was collected here in 2000. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of this population.
4 ROUTE 309 BRIDGE SITE Pittston A G4, PA-Endangered animal species (SA531) has occurred at this site since 1999.
(Wilkes-Barre City, Plains The surrounding present land use does not seem to disturb the animal species that occurs here. However, increased boat or jet ski traffic in the river due to the proposed Twp., & Forty-Fort Boro.) inflatable dam is a possible threat.
4 SLOCUM MARSH Nanticoke Slocum Marsh is a large 15 to 20-acre cattail wetland. An animal species of (Slocum Twp.) concern (SA527) has been using the marsh for breeding since 1998. Draining and pesticide use are potential threats. Additional visits are needed to determine the population size and to obtain a more detailed habitat description.
4 SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Nanticoke Two mussel species of concern (SA518A & B) were collected here in 1995. Very NANTICOKE (City of few specimens were collected, and surveys in 2000 failed to discover any live mussel fauna. This portion of the Susquehanna has suffered from acid mine Nanticoke & Plymouth Twp.) drainage, and water quality continues to be compromised by the inflow of the Lackawanna River at Wilkes-Barre. It is possible that as the river recovers, the rare species will be able to re-establish from populations living above the Lackawanna River or downstream of the mine-impacted area. No special management is recommended.
4 THE MEADOWS/BEECH Sweet Valley; This site on SGL #57 is made up of a pond and an adjacent wetland known as the LAKE Dutch Mt; Meadows, and a small man-made area named Beech Lake. A young hardwood forest dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum) surrounds Beech Lake. Two plant species of (Fairmount and Ross Twps.) Red Rock concern (SP514A & B) were identified in the Meadows area and two plant species of concern (SA514C & D) were found in Beech Lake. The plant species in both areas are small- to fair-populations that do not appear to have any imminent threats. Maintaining the present hydrology is important.
35
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 Additionally, three animal species of concern (SA524, SA525, & SA551) were discovered. The threats to SA524 & SA525 include mowing of the field in the spring and summer when the larvae are feeding on vegetation. A rotating schedule of mowing that includes mowing one third of the field every year in late October is optimal for maintaining habitat for the species of concern. A field with mowed and unmowed areas provides a variety of vegetation height and structure. Additionally, at least six inches of stubble must be left as a vegetative buffer for overwintering eggs and larvae. SA551 would benefit from the preservation of larger trees and snags. A small portion of this site extends to the Dutch Mountain and Red Rock quadrangles.
4 WOLF RUN HEADWATERS Sweet Valley; A good population of an S3 plant species (SP516) is located in three wetlands at the SWAMP Dutch Mt. headwaters of Wolf Run on SGL #57. Each wetland is hydrologically connected. No serious disturbances were noted. The wetlands are located close to a trail, but (Ross Twp.) trampling by hikers does not seem to pose a serious threat to this population. Deer browse is another threat, but few plants in the wetland seem to be impacted by this.
The site should continue to be monitored.
Two animal species of concern (SA517A & SA517B) were identified at the site.
Additional surveys are needed to assess both of these animal species. Changes in hydrology and logging are potential threats. A small portion of the site extends to the Dutch Mountain quadrangle.
4 WRIGHT CREEK White Haven This area along Wright Creek was last visited in 1996. A globally rare, PA-WATERSHED A Endangered plant species (SA517) occurs in a dry-mesic to moist woods on the site. Garbage dumping, foot traffic, and utility line & railroad construction are the (Dennison Twp.) past and present disturbances. Threats to the species of concern include logging, development, and the establishment of exotic plant species.
5 ANDY POND Wilkes-Barre West; This site on private property has an estimated 35 acres of mixed shrub swamp and (Dorrance & Rice Twps.) Freeland additional wetland habitats. An animal species of concern (SA537) was observed in the shrub wetland, but this animal will mainly use sedge and cattail areas. The 36
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 potential threats include development and changes in the hydrology of the marsh.
5 BEHLER SWAMP Pleasant View This site is part of State Game Land #91 and the Lackawanna State Forest.
(Bear Creek and Buck Twps. Summit Populations of two separate plant species of concern exist here. A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP517) was first identified at the site in 1991. The in Luzerne County and Lehigh population was monitored in 1996 and again in 1999. A second plant population Twp. in Lackawanna County) of concern (SP531) was discovered in 1999. Both populations could potentially be affected from trampling by hikers using the trail. Also, browsing by deer could pose a threat. Lastly, SP531 would be impacted if beavers change the hydrology of Choke Creek.
An animal species of concern (SA540) was observed nesting at the site in 2000.
The preservation of larger trees and snags would greatly benefit this species.
Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the population.
5 BLACK CREEK FLATS Hazleton This site is a flat, open area along Black Creek in Hazleton. It appears to have been (Hazle Twp.) severely disturbed by mining or other invasive activities in the past. A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP508) is scattered throughout the site. This species requires open conditions and benefits from the disturbed soil and slow succession at the site. In 2001, an invertebrate species of concern (SA508) was discovered. The site is being disturbed by litter and fill. Also, the area is being degraded by fast-growing, weedy plant species. Management of the aggressive plant species may be required.
5 CHOKE CREEK SHRUB Thornhurst; This site on private property is a fairly small Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural SWAMP P. View Summit Community (NC518) with a fair population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP518).
No disturbances were noted at the time of the field visit. Potential threats include (Tobyhanna Twp.) development, logging, or changing the hydrology of the site.
5 COUNCIL CUP CLIFFS Sybertsville; This site includes an extensive cliff erosional remnant (GE502) and an extensive (Conyngham & Hollenback Berwick Northern Appalachian Acidic Cliff Community (NC502). An animal species of concern (SA502) also exists at the site. Trampling and the installation of a chain-37
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 Twps.) link fence have disturbed the top of the cliff. No additional disturbances were noted.
5 COUNTY LINE ISLANDS Ransom This island/river gravel community was first visited in 1996. A marginal (Falls & Exeter Twps. in population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP524) occurs in an open, scour area of the island. When the site was revisited in 1999, SP524 was found once again along with a Wyoming County, Newton new marginal population of a G3G4 animal species (SA525). Threats to the plant Twp. in Lackawanna Twp., species include competition with invasive plant species, deer browse, and changes in and Exeter Twp. in Luzerne hydrology (e.g., construction of new dams). Any changes in hydrology and water County) pollution would affect the animal species.
5 EAST FORK HARVEYS Harveys This site consists of an impounded area near the state penitentiary on the east fork CREEK SITE - SOUTH Lake of Harveys Creek. The habitat is a partially flooded forest of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) with some red maple (Acer rubrum) and other deciduous trees.
(Jackson Twp.) The animal species of concern (SA513) was observed using the site from a remote distance and the status of the population is unknown. This site has also been used repeatedly for several years and current land uses do not appear to have disturbed the species of concern.
5 EAST FORK HARVEYS Harveys This site contains a thin band of riparian forest (mostly red maple) on the east fork CREEK SITE- NORTH Lake of Harveys Creek. An animal species of concern (SA514) uses these woods as a breeding area. The site occurs in a largely agricultural area. The species is (Lehman Twp.) sensitive to disturbance, but has used the site for many years and current land uses appear compatible with the species at the site.
5 FOLSTOWN MUD POND Nanticoke Mud Pond is a glacial wetland apparently impacted by damming and road building (Slocum Twp.) at its western end. The pond may have once been a bog that was inundated when the pond was created. The pond, which is currently used as recreation for boating and fishing, has two parts connected by a narrow channel. Two good-quality populations of two different PA-Rare plant species (SP517A & SA517B) were identified at the site. The threats to the site include nutrient and sediment load from nearby farms, homes, and the roadway. Management recommendations include 38
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 protecting the water quality of the site and continued monitoring of the species of concern.
5 HANOVER CROSSING Wilkes-Barre West An animal species of concern (SA538) was observed in the wetland during the WETLAND breeding season. The surrounding area is highly disturbed by past coal mining; slag piles and gray-birch scrub forests are common. Additional habitat and threat (Hanover Twp.) information is needed for this site.
5 HARVEYS LAKE Harveys Harveys Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Pennsylvania and there are (Dallas & Lake Twps. in Lake; numerous historical records from the lake of plant species now considered rare or endangered. Populations of one PA-Rare (SP510) and one PA-Endangered plant Luzerne County & Monroe Noxen (SP509) species have been collected from the site by PNDI biologists. These plants Twp. in Wyoming County) were not rediscovered in a survey of the lake in 1999, but much additional habitat remains and it is possible that the species of concern are persisting. Additional surveys are needed to assess these populations.
5 HUNTINGTON CREEK Shickshinny; An S3, PA-Candidate animal species of concern (SA510) was identified during a 1998 (Fairmount Twp.) Sweet Valley survey of Huntington Creek. Additional surveys are needed to assess the population quality. Maintaining the hydrology, water quality, and water temperature of the creek are important for the survival of the species.
5 INDIAN LAKE SWAMP Pleasant View The site is a red-spruce mixed hardwood palustrine forested swamp near Indian (Buck Twp.) Summit Lake on private property and State Game Lands 91. A small population of a PA -
Rare plant species (SP536) was found growing on hummocks. No disturbance, with the exception of deer browse, was noted at the site. Threats include development and logging. The site should be monitored and additional searches for the plant species are needed.
5 KITCHEN CREEK FALLS Red Rock A scenic gorge that crosses the Allegheny Front, this geologic feature (GE534) is a (Fairmount Twp.) series of waterfalls and rapids in Ricketts Glen State Park. The gorge descends 1,000 feet over three miles and includes over 25 falls.
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County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 5 MILL CREEK AT SUSCON Avoca This site provides habitat for an aquatic animal species of concern (SA534) occupying (Pittston Twp.) the upper portions of Mill Creek. Additional surveys are needed to determine the extent and health of this population that is dependent upon maintaining good water quality and habitat in the Mill Creek watershed.
5 MUD POND Pleasant View In 1992 and 1999, a marginal population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP512) was (Bear Creek Twp.) Summit located along a creek that outlets Mud Pond and eventually crosses beneath SR 2035. The population of SP512 is threatened by changes in hydrology, deer browse, roadside litter, and road de-icing agents. In order to protect these plant species, the current site hydrology should be maintained. Beaver trapping may become necessary if they once again become too numerous at this site.
5 MYLETS CORNER Sybertsville A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP505) was found at this site in (Dorrance Twp.) 2000. A portion of the site is mowed periodically during road maintenance. The current mowing practices may actually benefit this species by keeping weedy aggressive species from taking over. Threats include the potential for herbicide spraying and the effects of de-icing agents. No management is currently needed.
The site should continue to be monitored.
5 NEVEL SWAMP (Ross Sweet Valley Nevel Swamp is a good example of an Acidic Broadleaf Swamp Natural Twp.) Community (NC503) on private property. A manmade impoundment exists at the southwest corner of the swamp. The threats include changes in the hydrology of the swamp and logging.
5 OLD BEAVER DAM Red Rock In 2000, an S2 invertebrate species of concern (SA556) was identified in this open SWAMP sphagnum swamp. Further surveys are needed to determine the extent and size of the population. Permanent flooding or draining of the swamp would eliminate this (Fairmount Township) species of concern.
5 OPPERMAN PASS Red Rock This site is a boreal conifer swamp within Ricketts Glen State Park. Two animal (Fairmount Township) species of concern, one of which is PA-Threatened (SA559), are breeding at the site. Continued site monitoring is needed to determine the extent of the animal 40
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 populations. Logging is a potential threat to these two species. A wooded buffer around the site is recommended. In addition, the preservation of snags would benefit SA584.
5 PIPELINE SWAMP NORTH Avoca; The site on State Game Lands 91 is an extensive (approximately 10-15 acres) spruce (Bear Creek Twp.) Pleasant View and shrub swamp clearly impacted by flooding, presumably from construction of the pipeline and possibly from beaver activity. An S2 animal species of concern (SA535)
Summit was found at the swamp in 2000. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the occurrence of this animal species. The survival of the animal species can be aided by restricting the use of herbicides for weed control on the pipeline right-of-way. Additional threats to the site include changes in hydrology caused by beaver.
5 PITTSTON ROOKERY Pittston This site is an island in the Susquehanna River that was an active nesting area for (Pittston & Exeter Boros & an animal species of concern (SA511) for ten years. The island was not visited during the field surveys for the Natural Areas Inventory, but the nesting area has Jenkins Twp.) been reported to be no longer active. A field visit during breeding is needed to confirm this report.
5 RICKETTS GLEN SWAMP Red Rock In 1993 & 1997, hundreds of plants of a good-quality PA-Rare plant population (Fairmount Township in Luzerne (SP532) were found in this hemlock-dominated swamp. There are no known threats to the plants or the habitat. An S2S3B,S3N animal species (SA561) was observed Co. & Davidson Twp. in Sullivan in 1997. This animal requires large tracts of mature forest. Some degree of Co.) selective timbering is acceptable and may potentially increase prey abundance for the animal. Additional visits to the site are needed to assess the quality of the animal population. This site is protected within Ricketts Glen State Park.
5 SHADES GLEN Pleasant View This area is a heath-dominated shrubland with patches of scrub oak and occasional HEADWATERS Summit pitch pine. In 2000, this site was mapped as a fair occurrence of a Mesic Scrub Oak-Heath-Pitch-Pine Barrens (NC533). The barrens should be revisited for more (Bear Creek Twp.) thorough vegetation and soil sampling, and to determine its relation to the till barrens of Long Pond. Additionally, Lepidopteran surveys are needed.
41
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 A PA-Threatened plant species (SP534) and a PA-Rare plant species (SP535) were identified in a swamp at this site. To protect the site and species of concern, the hydrology of the site should be preserved.
5 SHICKSHINNY Nanticoke This site includes populations of a fair-to poor-quality population of a PA-Rare MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP plant species (SP519), and a population of an animal species of concern (SA519).
The site appears to have burned. Competition from blackberry or other species, (Plymouth Twp.) succession to a closed canopy, and deer browse are all threats to this small population. However, there is likely additional habitat along the ridgetop to the southwest. No special management of the site is recommended.
The animal species of concern was collected from open grassy habitat along a large powerline right-of-way just north of the ridgetop. Additional surveys are needed to determine the extent of this population. This site occurs within Lackawanna State Forest.
5 SUSCON RAILROAD Avoca This site contains a population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP530) growing in GRADE SITE disturbed habitat (the old WB-Eastern RR grade) that was last visited in 1997. This is a species found in open areas that benefits from regular disturbance. No current (Pittston Twp.) threats are evident, although the species will eventually be eliminated by natural succession in the absence of disturbance. Future surveys could assess the condition of the habitat as well as search for the rare animal species associated with this plant.
5 SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Ransom A marginal quality population of an animal species of concern (SA520) was found DURYEA in the Susquehanna River in an unshaded riffle area in sand with cobble and boulder substrate. Siltation and degradation of water quality from surrounding (Exeter Twp in Luzerne County land use (residential and industrial) threaten the site. Conservation of the water and Ransom Twp. in quality is important for the survival of this species.
Lackawanna County) 5 SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Ransom This section of the Susquehanna River was first surveyed in 1995. A small EXETER population of an aquatic animal species of concern (SP519A) was identified during 42
County Site Name or Code (municipality) USGS Topo. Map TNC and Ranks2, Importance and Recommendations Rank1 (Exeter Twp. in Luzerne Co. & the 1995 survey. In 1999, the site was revisited and a fair-quality population of a Ransom & Newton Twps. in second animal species of concern (SA519B), which was believed to no longer occur at the site, was discovered. The potential threats include changes in water Lackawanna Co.) quality or temperature, and sedimentation.
5 THE TUBS Wilkes-Barre The Tubs is a Whirlpool Canyon with a series of falls over sandstone and (Plains Twp.) East conglomerate rock of the Pocono Formation. Today, this area is a county park that is used for passive recreation. Littering by visitors is a disturbance. The development of the surrounding land is a potential threat to the quality of this site.
5 TILBURY KNOB (Plymouth Nanticoke A poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP515) occurs at this site on Twp.) the crest of a red shale cliff in xeric, thin soils. No special management is recommended for this site.
5 WILKES-BARRE Wilkes-Barre West This site on Wilkes-Barre Mountain is a marginal to good example of a North MOUNTAIN Appalachian Acidic Rocky Summit Community (NC524). A small population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP523) was located here in 2000. The plant is growing in a (Hanover Twp.) powerline right-of-way and is in danger of being sprayed with herbicides during maintenance activities. Therefore the right-of-way should be maintained by mechanical means if possible. Natural wildfires would be beneficial to the plants and the natural community at the site.
5 WRIGHT CREEK Wilkes-Barre This site on SGL #119 includes an upland area drained by Wright Creek. A fair to WATERSHED B East small population of a PA-Endangered plant species (SP521) was found in a low heath area in 1996. No obvious threats to the plants were noted during the field visit.
(Bear Creek Twp.) Additional surveys are needed to adequately assess the size of the population.
5 WRIGHT CREEK Wilkes-Barre A small population of a plant species of concern was found along the edge of the WATERSHED C East woods near a trail at Wright Creek in SGL #119. The current nearby disturbances include ATV and foot traffic. The potential threats include trampling and deer browse.
(Bear Creek Twp.)
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44 TABLE 2 AREAS OF LOCAL SIGNIFICANCE IN LUZERNE COUNTY BASED ON SIZE, DIVERSITY OF WILDLIFE AND PLANT LIFE, WATER QUALITY PROTECTION, AND RECREATION POTENTIAL.(THESE SITES DO NOT INCLUDE HIGH QUALITY NATURAL COMMUNITIES AND NO SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN HAVE BEEN DOCUMENTED AT THE SITES ALTHOUGH SEVERAL OF THE AREAS HAVE POTENTIAL FOR RARE SPECIES TO OCCUR).
County Site Name USGS Topo. Natural Feature and Importance Rank1 (municipality) Map High Susquehanna Riverlands Berwick This Locally Significant area consists of approximately 2,500 acres on both sides of the (Salem Twp.) North Branch Susquehanna for approximately one mile. The site also includes Gould Island. Pennsylvania Audubon Society has designated it as a Pennsylvania Important Bird Area because it contains fairly extensive riparian and hillside forest (Crossley 1999). The site is owned and managed for recreation and environmental education by PPL.
High Shickshinny Mountain Slopes Nanticoke This Locally Significant site occurs on a saddle or cove on the north slope of (Plymouth Twp.) Shickshinny Mountain, near the headwaters of Hunlock Creek. The forest community is second-growth northern hardwood of intermediate age. Several rock outcrops with small seeps occur just upslope of the site, perhaps the source of the rich soil conditions. The site has potential for several rare plant species of concern and should be revisited in late spring. Establishing a small no disturbance zone around the site would prevent disturbance to the soil and the diversity of the wildflowers present.
High Bear Swamp Sweet Valley This Locally Significant area is a young- to-mid-successional forested swamp with a (Ross Twp.) mixture of conifers and hardwood species. There are occasionally large (15-inch diameter or more) white pine (Pinus strobus) trees, but the average tree size is much smaller. Spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata), hermit thrushes (Catharus guttatus), and black-capped chickadees (Parus atricapillus) are among the wildlife observed during a brief visit.
High Roaring Brook Swamp Sweet Valley This Locally Significant area consists of a disturbed third-growth mixed broadleaf and (Ross Twp.) conifer swamp on the east side of Roaring Brook. A bird species of concern was observed using the habitat, although reproduction at the site was not confirmed. Marshy openings and old beaver impoundments along the creek break the canopy of the swamp. Avoiding logging in the wetland and the buffering uplands will help this Locally Significant area to recover from past disturbances.
High Wapwallopen Gorge Sybertsville The Lance Corporation, who allows public access for recreation, owns this Locally 45
County Site Name USGS Topo. Natural Feature and Importance Rank1 (municipality) Map (Hollenback & Nescopeck Significant property. There are several hiking trails and camping/picnic areas Twps.) throughout. The gorge is very steeply-sided and forested with hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) at the upper end. The gorge has some historical significance as many remnants of a turn of the century powder plant are found along the edge of the gorge. Excessive trash, graffiti, and the practice of stripping the trees of their bark for campfires detract from the beauty of the gorge.
High Nuangola Station Swamp Wilkes-Barre This Locally Significant area is a mixed broadleaf-conifer swamp bisected by a small (Rice Twp.) West meandering stream. The swamp has numerous small pools and seeps and a well-developed micro-topography of pits and tip-up mounds. There are a few large trees in the matrix of second/third growth forest and no recent signs of logging. Black ash (Fraxinus nigra) is notable for its abundance here. There are ATV trails along the margin of the swamp and through its north end. No current threats are evident and allowing the forest to mature will improve the quality of the plant community.
Med Grand View Red Rock This Locally Significant site within Ricketts Glen State Park is the highest point on Red Rock (Fairmount Twp.) Mountain (2,449 feet), providing a spectacular overlook on the rim of the Allegheny Front (Geyer and Bolles, 1987).
Med Prospect Rock Wilkes-Barre This Locally Significant site is a large rock ledge about 2,000 feet in length that provides a (Laurel Run Boro.) East grand view of the Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre (Geyer and Bolles, 1987).
1 Ranks are very approximate and are based primarily on the quality of the habitat. Sites with more intact natural communities (on a counties-wide scale) are given highest priority. Other sites represent areas with locally significant woodlands or wetlands or sites that support a particularly rich or unusual flora or fauna. Areas that are already protected as park land or open space may be assigned lower rank to reflect lower urgency for protection action. Sites of similar rank are listed alphabetically by quadrangle.
46
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Avoca TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plant: SP530 G5 S3 PR 6/06/97 E Special Animals: SA534 G5 S3 PC 9/26/00 E SA535 G4G5 S2 N/A 7/2000 E Natural Community: NC532 G? S3 N/A 6/12/2000 BC Managed Areas: State Game Lands #91.
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
48
Avoca Quadrangle:
BALD MOUNTAIN ROAD SWAMP (Bear Creek Twp.) NC532 - This site, which is designated as a marginal- to good-quality example of a Boreal Conifer Swamp Natural Community (NC532), is located near the headwaters of the Bear Creek drainage. It contains a preponderance of older, large spruces, and less disturbance from beavers and other sources than most of the other spruce swamps sampled in the county. Red spruce (Picea rubens) is the dominant overstory species, with red maple (Acer rubrum) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) also present. The open understory is dominated by regenerating spruce, with some rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronata),
mountain laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), and alder (Alnus sp.)
present. The groundcover is dominated by sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), goldthread (Coptis trifolium), three-seeded sedge (Carex trisperma), starflower (Trientalis borealis), Canada mayflower (Maianthemum canadense), slender manna-grass (Glyceria melicaria), and aster (Aster sp.). There is a marked pit-and-mound microtopography in the swamp, with saturated peat soils and small open pools. The center of the swamp has a narrow strip of mixed shrub swamp with young spruce, tall shrubs, and herbaceous vegetation; this appears to be good habitat for a rare animal species of concern, though none were seen in this survey. A small stream coalesces out of the southern end of the swamp and flows south towards Bear Creek.
Bird species heard during this brief visit include northern waterthrush, (Seiurus noveboracensis), ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), black-and-white warbler (Mniotilta varia), purple finch (Carpodacus purpureus),
cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum), Canada warbler (Wilsonia canadensis), and common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas). The site appears to be ideal habitat for several plant species of concern, though no rare plant species were seen during this visit. A bird species of concern has been observed in the area, although no nests have been found. The site is on State Game Lands #91. Allowing the site to mature further will enhance the quality of the natural community.
MILL CREEK AT SUSCON (Pittston Twp.) SA534 - An aquatic animal species of concern (SA534) occupies the upper portions of Mill Creek. The species was first found at the site in September of 2000.
Additional surveys are needed to determine the extent and health of this population. The health of the population is dependent upon maintaining good water quality and habitat in the Mill Creek watershed.
PIPELINE SWAMP NORTH (Bear Creek Twp.) SA535 - The site is located on State Game Lands
- 91. It is an extensive (approximately 10-15 acre) spruce and shrub swamp clearly impacted by flooding, presumably from construction of the pipeline and possibly from beaver activity. Many of the trees at the site, including some spruce, were dead. The swamp has a concentric pattern with 1/2 meter deep water near the center, and a floating (sinking) peat surrounded by leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata). In turn, the center of the swamp is surrounded by shallower peat with highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). The dominant vegetation in the swamp includes red spruce (Picea rubens), tamarack (Larix laricina), spirea (Spiraea sp.), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), small cranberry (Vaccinum oxycoccos), pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.), buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata), sundew (Drosera intermedia), and sedges (Carex canescens, Carex utriculata, and Carex trisperma). Animal species that were observed during the field visit include the northern green frog (Rana clamitans melanota), red-spotted newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens), cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum), common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), and yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia).
50
An S2 animal species of concern (SA535) was found at the swamp in 2000. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the occurrence of this animal species. The survival of the animal species can be aided by restricting the use of herbicides for weed control on the pipeline right-of-way. Additional threats to the site include changes in hydrology caused by beaver. A small portion of this site extends to the Pleasant View Summit quadrangle.
SUSCON RAILROAD GRADE SITE (Pittston Twp.) SP530 - This site consists of a population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP530) growing in disturbed habitat (the old WB-Eastern RR grade) that was last visited in 1997. This is a species of open areas that benefits from regular disturbance. No current threats are evident, although the species will eventually be eliminated by natural succession in the absence of disturbance. Future surveys could assess the condition of the habitat, as well as search for the rare animal species associated with this plant.
51
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Berwick TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Natural Community: NC515 G? S3 N/A 8/15/00 B Locally Significant: Susquehanna Riverlands, Wapwallopen Gorge Managed Areas: State Game Lands #260 Other: ge502, sa502, nc502 (Council Cup Cliffs)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
The Powderhole is located in the Wapwallopen Gorge, a Locally Significant site in Luzerne County.
Photo: Aura Stauffer, PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
52
Berwick Quadrangle:
BRIGGSVILLE VERNAL POOLS (Nescopeck Twp.) NC515 - This site contains a series of vernal pools that make up an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community (NC515) north of Nescopeck Mountain.
The pools are located near the southern boundary of the last glacial advance that formed depressions created by small ice blocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. Today some of the pools are situated in an agricultural setting, while many of the vernal pools are found in young, deciduous woods. The pools in the agricultural areas are more disturbed and subject to siltation and warming because the pools are not shaded by trees and are surrounded by fields. Typical vegetation in these agricultural pools included softrush (Juncus effusus), sedges (Carex sp.), rice-cut grass (Leersia oryzoides), and spikerush (Eleocharis sp.). The pools in the woods are less disturbed and are in a more natural state. Shrubs, especially buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), dominate some of these pools, while others have shrubby margins and open centers with a leaf-litter and/or sphagnum substrate. Typical vegetation included highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum),
red maple (Acer rubrum), blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica), royal fern (Osmunda regalis), red chokeberry (Pyrus arbutifolia), water plantain (Alisma sp.), beggar tick (Bidens sp.), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea),
sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), and buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). Many wooded vernal pools are shown on aerial photos in this area; only a few could be visited during the field visit. Spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata) and wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) have been observed using the pools, which are also appropriate habitat for Ambystomid salamander species (spotted or Jefferson salamanders). Vernal pools are extremely important, fragile habitats that are facing statewide pressure from development and other human disturbances (e.g., ATV traffic). Consequently, sites containing vernal pools should be a top priority for conservation in the county. One of the current landowners would like to preserve his property and has expressed an interest in having a conservancy purchase the property.
COUNCIL CUP CLIFFS (Conyngham & Hollenback Twps.) sa502, nc502, & ge502 - For the description of this site, please see the Sybertsville quadrangle.
Susquehanna Riverlands (Salem Twp.) This Locally Significant area consists of approximately 2,500 acres. Pennsylvania Audubon Society has designated it as a Pennsylvania Important Bird Area because it contains fairly extensive riparian and hillside forest (Crossley 1999). Both sides of the North Branch Susquehanna are protected for approximately one mile. The west-side of the park includes public picnic areas, riparian forest, hillside forest, and some marsh and swamp. The site is owned and managed for recreation and environmental education by PPL.
The riparian forest supports populations of yellow-throated vireo (Vireo flavifrons), warbling vireo (Vireo gilvus), American redstart (Setaphaga ruticilla), and northern parula (Parula americana). Both northern oriole (Icterus galbula) and orchard oriole (I. spurius) nest in forest and park land. Wetlands support good populations of swamp sparrow (Melospiza georgiana), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus),
willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii), and eastern bluebirds (Sialis sialis) nesting in natural cavities. The east side of the park (Sybertsville Quadrant) encompasses many habitats, including hundreds of acres of oak - hickory - pine forest, cliffs, and abandoned fields. Oak-dominated forests support good populations of scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea), ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), wood thrush (Hylocichla mustlina),
worm-eating warbler (Helmitheros vermivorus), pine warbler (Dendroica pinus), red-eyed vireo (Vireo olivaceus), and rose-breasted grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus).
Gould Island, owned by PPL, has a fairly mature forest, especially on its downstream end. Here there are large specimens of silver maple (Acer saccharinum), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), and black maple 54
(Acer niger). At least one state-listed bird species has nested here in the past, although none were observed in recent years.
The area contains a good diversity of reptile and amphibian species, including spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata) and a reptile species of concern. Also, the fox squirrel and river otter have been frequently observed at this site.
Wapwallopen Gorge (Hollenback & Nescopeck Twps. ). - For the description of this Locally Significant site, please see the Sybertsville quadrangle.
Ospreys, bald eagles, herons, and egrets use the tall trees for nesting along rivers and on islands.
Photo: Jill Bellefonti, PA Game Commission 55
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Center Moreland TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP503A G4G5 S1 PE 8/20/99 B SP503B G5 S3 PR 8/20/99 B
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
56
Center Moreland Quadrangle:
PERRINS MARSH (Northumberland Twp. in Wyoming County and Franklin Twp. in Luzerne County) SP503A & SA503B - Perrins Marsh is a shallow (1-2 meters deep) man-made pond located on private property on the Wyoming/Luzerne County border. The pond has been dammed for over 50 years.
A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP503A) species was first identified at the site in 1993.
The site was revisited in 1999 and SP503A is still present. A new good-quality PA-Endangered, S1 plant (SP503B) population was identified at the site during the 1999 visit. This thriving population is the first known occurrence of the plant species in Eastern Pennsylvania. The dominant plant species at this site include spatterdock (Nuphar variegatum), hornwort (Ceratophylum carolinianum), watershield (Brasenia schreberi), water lily (Nyphaea odorata), and pondweed (Potamogeton sp.). Perrins Marsh also provides habitat for a diverse population of dragonflies and damselflies. A 1994 survey of the site identified twelve species of dragonflies and two species of damselflies. Eleven of the species were observed for the first time in Luzerne county. Disturbances include a high Canada goose population, but the geese do not appear to be impacting the plant species of concern. The site should continue to be monitored and surrounding locations (e.g., Cummings Pond) should be visited to search for additional populations of these plants of concern and wading bird species of concern. The use of an aquatic herbicide or dramatically changing the water level are the greatest potential threats to the marsh.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Conyngham TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP506A G5 S3 N/A 8/29/00 BC SP506B G4 S3 PR 8/29/00 D SP506C G5 S2 PE 8/29/00 B SP506D G5 S2 TU 8/29/00 BC SP506E G4 S2 PR 8/29/00 C SP509A G4G5 S3 N/A 8/29/00 BC SP509B G4G5 S3 N/A 8/29/00 BC Special Animal: SA506 G4G5 S2 N/A 6/30/01 B Natural Community: NC508 G4 S3 N/A 6/22/00 B Other: sa508 (Black Creek Flats)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Conyngham Quadrangle:
BLACK CREEK FLATS (Hazle Twp.) sp508 & sa508 - For the description of this site, please see the Hazleton quadrangle.
HUMBOLDT BARREN (Hazle Twp.) NC508 - A Ridgetop Dwarf Tree Forest Natural Community (NC508) on a broad, high-elevation (1500-1700 ft) ridgetop occurs at this site The site is unusual among Luzerne County ridgetop barrens in having pitch pine (Pinus rigida) that is at least as abundant as scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia). over much of the site. Portions of the site are pitch-pine oak woodland with openings dominated by large conglomerate rock slabs. Chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) and pitch pine (Pinus rigida) are the dominant overstory trees, along with black gum (Nyssa sylvatica) and red maple (Acer rubrum). The shrub layer is dominated by black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium), and scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia). Additional woody species that were identified include wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), gray birch (Betula populifolia), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), dewberry (Rubus flagellaris), and serviceberry (Amelanchier sp.). Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) is by far the dominant herbaceous species, with traces of fly poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum), cow-wheat (Melampyrum lineare), and poverty grass (Danthonia spicata). Abundant snake habitat exists among the conglomerate slabs and boulders.
There are also scrub oak- and pitch pine-dominated barrens east of the large utility line bisecting the site. Scrub oak covers more than 50% of this area, with pitch pine the only overstory tree and bracken fern and teaberry dominating the groundcover. Although scrub-oak barrens occur at several other locations in the county, this site has the greatest area of pitch pine seen in the county. The site was trapped for Lepidopterans in late summer 2000. Although no rare Lepidopteran species were found, additional surveys for rare Lepidopterans at this site are warranted. Disturbances include a large utility line, a network of gravel roads that may act as firebreaks, and mine tailings at the border of the natural community. Fire suppression, chemical maintenance of the powerline R-O-W. observed in 2000, logging for pulpwood, and ATV use are potential threats to the site.
VALMONT INDUSTRIAL PARK (Hazle Twp.) SP506A, SP506B, SP506C, SP506D, SP506E, SP509A, SP509B, & SA506 - This site consists of a sloping area of shallow peat and acidic seeps dominated by sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.) and sedge (Carex sp.) species. It has been created, at least in part, by the powerline R-O-W that cut through the site. The shallow soils and presence of pitch pine (Pinus rigida) in the surrounding forest suggest fire may have affected the site in the past. The combination of the high-elevation acidic seep and the open areas created by the disturbances, provides habitat for seven rare plant species (SP506A, SP506B, SP506C, SP506D, SP506E, SP509A, &
SP509B). Many of these species are more commonly associated with bog habitats. The rare plant species are all found in the open wetland habitat and are associated with sedges (Carex folliculata and Carex trisperma), beak-rushes (Rhyncospora capitellata), round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia),
pitcher-plant (Sarracenia purpurea), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), low heaths (Kalmia angustifolia and Vaccinium angustifolium), cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), and other peatland species. The site is also frequented by SA506, an invertebrate species that uses one of the common plant species as its host plant.
This site is precariously located in West Hazleton in an area of industrial and commercial development, with little buffering forest remaining and significant ongoing development upstream in the watershed. Increased use of the trail to the site by ATVs, spraying of the powerline R-O-W with herbicide, increasing surrounding 61
development, and changes in hydrology are among the chief threats to this vulnerable and unique habitat.
Nonetheless, the listed plant species have persisted here for many years and the site is monitored regularly by local naturalists. Steps should be taken to assist the surrounding landowners and municipalities in preserving this unique site and the rare elements it contains.
The Spotted Turtle, which is found in Luzerne County, could soon be listed as a species of special concern in Pennsylvania.
Photo: Rich Ring, PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 62
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Dutch Mountain TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP524A G5 S3 PR 4/06/95 C SP524B G5 S3 PR 4/06/95 D SP532 G3 S1 PE 7/12/00 C SP533 G5 S1S2 N 7/12/00 C SP534 G5 S3 PR 6/13/00 BC SA533 G5 S1S2B PT 6/14/00 E Special Animal:
Natural Community: NC534 G? S3 N/A 6/13/00 BC Managed Areas: State Game Lands #57 Other: sp514A, sp524B, sp514C, sp514D, sp514E, sa524, sa525, sa551 (The Meadows/Beech Lake); sp521, sa522, sa523, nc521 (Boulder Run Swamp); sp516, sa502, sa518, sa519, sa520 (State Game Lands #57)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Dutch Mountain Quadrangle:
BOULDER RUN SWAMP (Lake & Ross Twps.) sp521, sa522, sa523, & nc521 - For the description of this site, please see the Sweet Valley quadrangle.
INDEFATIGABLE SWAMP (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County and Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County)
NC534, SP532, SP533, SP534, and SA533 - Indefatigable Swamp is a large and diverse forested seepage swamp with a variety of different habitats, three rare plant species (SP532, SP533, and SP534) and one animal species of concern (SA533) on State Game Lands #57. A portion of this site continues on the Sweet Valley quadrangle. The swamp was designated as a marginal- to good-quality Boreal Conifer Swamp Natural Community (NC534). Red spruce (Picea rubens) and red maple (Acer rubrum) are the most abundant overstory species. Portions of the swamp have deep sphagnous peat and a depauperate strongly acidophilic vegetation, while others have evident springs and seeps and a more diverse flora.
Species seen in more open, springy, presumably minerotrophic areas include red maple (Acer rubrum),
mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronatus), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), fowl mannagrass (Glyceria striata), mannagrass (Glyceria melicaria), jewelweed (Impatiens sp.), buttercup (Ranunculus sp.), a sedge (Carex leptalea), bugleweed (Lycopus sp.), violet (Viola sp.), false hellebore (Veratrum viride), smartweed (Polygonum sp.), dwarf red bramble (Rubus pubescens), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), goldthread (Coptis trifolium), star violet (Dalibarda repens), Canada mayflower (Maianthemum canadense), crested shield fern (Dryopteris cristata), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp). The more completely spruce and sphagnum dominated areas had pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea), a sedge (Carex trisperma), and a small population of SP534 (PA-Rare). An approximately 15-meter radius spring-fed pool in the center of the swamp is dominated by buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata). Numerous canopy openings, often dominated by cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), provide habitat for the state's best population of SP532 (G3, S1, PA-Endangered). These openings and associated tall shrub areas are likely breeding habitat for the listed animal species SA533 (S1S2B, PA-Threatened), heard at the site along with other species typical of boreal wetlands including brown creepers (Certhia familiaris), yellow-rumped warblers (Dendroica coronata),
magnolia warblers (Dendroica magnolia), Canada warblers (Wilsonia canadensis), northern waterthrush (Seiurus noveboracensis), hermit thrush (Catharus guttatus), blackburnian warbler (Dendoica fusca), and common raven (Corvis corax). The northern saw-whet owl (Aegolius acadicus) and whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus vociferus) have been heard in nearby forests. SA533 is potentially using nearby wetlands and forest lands. Additional surveys for SA533 are needed to monitor the site and to check for evidence of reproduction. Another plant species seen at the swamp includes a marginal to good-quality population of an S1S2 species (SP533). There is no sign of current human activity in the swamp, and portions of the second growth spruce forest are beginning to mature. Heavy logging, road- building or other direct disturbances would be a threat to the continued recovery of this site as would disturbances to the surrounding hydrology.
THE MEADOWS/BEECH LAKE (Ross & Fairmount Twps.) sp514A, sp514B, sp514C, sp514D, sp514E, sa524, sa525, & sa551 - For the description of this site, please see the Sweet Valley quadrangle.
OPUSSUM SWAMP (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County & Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County) SP524A &
SP524B - Opossum Swamp is a large wetland mostly composed of low shrubs less than two meters tall within State Gamelands #57. Two PA-Rare plant species of concern (SP524A & SP524B) were identified in 1995.
Although neither population of these species is considered to be very high quality, more extensive searches may yield additional information that could increase the quality rank of one or both. Leatherleaf 65
(Chamaedaphne calyculata) and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) are the dominant plant species with an assortment of grasses and sedges that indicate shallow peat deposits and low pH soil and water. The size of the wetland, along with the high density of wetlands on the plateau, makes this area of Luzerne &
Wyoming Counties significant. There is good potential for other rare species to occur including birds, mammals, and plants. Fortunately, these wetlands are on lands protected by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
STATE GAME LANDS #57 (Fairmount, Ross & Lake Twps.) sp516, sa502, sa518, sa519, & sa520 - For the description of this site, please see the Sweet Valley quadrangle.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Freeland TNC Ranks* Federal State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP503 G4 S3 N/A PR 10/28/87 A SP505 G3 S2 N/A PE 7/21/00 A SP506 G4 S3 N/A PR 8/23/00 A SP511 G5 S3 N/A PR 9/24/99 BC SP512 G4 S3 N/A PR 8/29/90 BC SP513 G4 S3 N/A PR 8/29/90 BC SP515 G5 S3 N/A PR 8/30/00 D SP516 G4G5 S1 N/A TU 7/12/00 B SP520 G5 S2 N/A N 8/30/00 B SP521 G4G5 S3 N/A N 8/22/00 B SP522 G5? S2 N/A PT 7/18/00 E SA514 G2G3 S2 N/A N/A 10/03/90 E Special Animals:
SA517 G4 S3B,S3N N/A N/A 4/24/93 E SA518 G5 S2S3B,S3N N/A N/A 6/2000 AB SA519A G5 S3S4 N/A N/A 8/20/00 E SA519B G4 S3S4 (PS) N/A 8/22/00 BC SA523 G5 S2 N/A N/A 10/03/00 E Natural Communities: NC507 G4 S3 N/A N/A 10/01/86 AB NC513 G? S3 N/A N/A 3/15/00 B HQ-CWF: Nescopeck Creek; Oley Creek Managed Areas: Nescopeck State Park; State Game Lands #187 Other: sp502A, sp502B, sp522, sa506A, sa506B, sa506C, sa506Dsa506E, sa506F, sa506G, sa506H, sa506I, sa506J, sa506K, sa506L, sa506M, sa507A, sa507B, sa507C, sa507D, nc505 (Arbutus Peak); sa537 (Andy Pond) 67
Freeland Quadrangle:
ANDYS POND (Dorrance Twp.) sa537 - For the description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre West quadrangle.
ARBUTUS PEAK (Bear Creek, Dennison, Fairview, Hanover, & Wright Twps. & Laurel Run Boro.)
sp502A, sp502B, SP519, sp522, sa506A, sa506B, sa506C, sa506D, sa506E, sa506F, sa506G, sa506H, sa506I, sa506J, sa506K, sa506L, sa506M, sa507A, sa507B, sa507C, SA519, nc505 - For a description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre East quadrangle.
EDGEWOOD VERNAL POOLS (Butler Twp.) SP511, SP512, SP513, SA514, NC513 - This site is one of the top priority sites in Luzerne County. It contains a good example of an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community (NC513). The site is located on and adjacent to Nescopeck Mountain, near the southern boundary of the last glacial advance. Dozens of pools occupy topographic depressions created by small ice blocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. The majority of pools are situated in a dry-mesic, oak-heath woods with a rolling kettle-kame topography typical of ice-contact terrain. Shrubs dominate some of these pools, while others have shrubby margins and open centers with a leaf-litter and/or sphagnous substrate. Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) was the dominant shrub along with spicebush (Lindera benzoin). Other dominant vegetation included red maple (Acer rubrum), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), white oak (Quercus alba), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), musclewood (Carpinus caroliniana), greenbrier (Smilax sp.), chestnut oak (Quercus prinus), white pine (Pinus strobus), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), and cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea). This site provides valuable breeding habitat for amphibians. Wood frogs (Rana sylvatica),
spotted salamanders (Ambystomata maculatum), and Jefferson salamanders (Ambystomata jeffersonianum) were observed using the pools to breed in 2000, and many additional pools remain to be surveyed.
A large ice-block depression swamp of mixed hardwoods and hemlock is found near the southern edge of the vernal pool area. A good- to excellent-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP511) exists in the stream that drains this swamp (a tributary to Long Run). Two populations of another PA-Rare plant species (SP512 & SP513) were found at the site in 1990, growing along an ATV trail and in openings in the young oak forest surrounding the vernal pools. Neither of these were rediscovered during visits in 1999 and 2000, and one of the locations has been developed. A globally rare invertebrate species (SA514) was also discovered at this site in 1990; although portions of the habitat for this species have been developed, additional surveys in the surrounding oak forest are recommended. Some of the species of concern found here are also found a few miles to the east at the Nescopeck Creek Valley Site. The current disturbances and possible threats include development (mainly business/industrial). The properties surrounding the pools are being developed at a rapid rate. The pools are spread over several hundred acres, bisected by Interstate 80.
Commercial development has destroyed some areas of the woods and pools south of I-80 near Edgewood.
Other disturbances include foot traffic from nearby trails. The nearby roadways pose a threat to amphibians when they migrate to the pools in spring. Vernal pools are extremely important, fragile habitats that are facing statewide pressure from development and other human disturbances (e.g., ATV traffic). Consequently, sites containing vernal pools should be a top priority for conservation in the county.
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HELLS KITCHEN ANTHRACITE MINE (Butler Twp.) SA517 - A G4 animal species (SA517) was discovered at this mine site in 1993, but additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of this population. Disturbance of the site from continued mining is a potential threat.
HELLS KITCHEN (Butler Twp.) SP503 - This site contains an excellent-quality population of a G4, PA-Rare plant species of concern (SP503). The site has a history of disturbance for a residential development and past and present mining activities. Plant species associated with the plant species of concern include spiraea (Spiraea sp.), whorled loostrife (Lysimachia quadrifolia), hay-scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctiloba), black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), grass (Panicum sp.), tall goldenrod (Solidago altissima), and groundberry (Rubus hispidus). The plant species at the site should continue to be monitored.
NESCOPECK CREEK VALLEY (Butler and Dennison Twps.) SP505, SP506, SP515, SP516, SP520, SP521, SP522, SA518, SA519A, SA519B, & SA523 - This large natural area is centered about the upper watershed of Nescopeck Creek, encompassing portions of Nescopeck State Park and State Game Lands 187, and bordered by the Arbutus Peak site to the north. At least five rare animal and seven rare plant species have been documented at the site, occupying a variety of wetland and upland habitats. One of the most significant of these is an excellent quality population of a globally rare, PA-Endangered plant species (SP505), that occurs in scattered subpopulations throughout the upper Nescopeck Valley, in moist oak woods along the Nescopeck Creek and its south-flowing tributaries. The habitat usually consists of mixed oak-heath woods, often along the boundary between streamside wetlands and adjacent uplands. Tree species present include white oak (Quercus alba), black oak, (Quercus velutina), red maple (Acer rubrum),
and white pine (Pinus strobus). The shrubs include witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), arrow-wood (Viburnum sp.), and various heaths (Gaylussacia baccata, Kalmia latifolia, Vaccinium sp.). The species of concern occurs in the groundcover and is associated with various sedge species (Carex vestita, Carex stricta), fly-poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum), hay-scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctiloba), and wild sarsaparilla (Aralia nudicaulis).
The additional rare species at the site occur in separate, disparate habitats within Nescopeck State Park and Sate Game Lands 187. SA518, which is an animal species that is a candidate for PA-Rare status, utilizes one of the pine plantations adjacent to the Nescopeck Creek for nesting. This animal is extremely sensitive to disturbance while nesting. Three invertebrate species of concern (SA519B, SA523, & SA541) were found in various habitats including dry woods and old fields. One of these species, SA541, is a G2G3 species that is only known to occur in Pennsylvania. SA519A is a vertebrate species of concern that has been found in several disturbed roadside habitats with sandy soils and open basking areas. One population of this animal was seriously affected by construction of the beach for the State Park. Finally, several plant species of concern (SP506, SP515, SP516, SP520, SP521, & SP522) have been found in some of the streamside wetlands and seeps within the State Park. These habitats are dominated by sphagnum mosses (Sphagnum sp.), sedges (Carex trisperma, Carex folliculata), and rushes (Juncus effusus). Recent fieldwork completed by Dr. Ann Rhoads of Morris Arboretum has uncovered several new plant species of concern in these habitats and small impoundments along Nescopeck Creek, as well as new subpopulations of the globally rare species discussed above. Maintaining buffers around the wetlands and the water quality of Nescopeck Creek (a High Quality-Cold Water Fishery) will help these species of concern to persist at the site.
Disturbances to the site include the creation of Lake Francis and other impoundments along the Creek, a variety of ATV and jeep trails, logging, management activities in the State Game Lands, and recent construction of facilities for the State Park. Despite these disturbances, the valley is largely forested and 70
undisturbed by past anthracite mining. Efforts should be made to manage the park to protect the wild nature of much of the valley (especially by protecting the forests along the Creek tributaries) and the associated species of concern. This site extends to the White Haven quadrangle.
NESCOPECK MOUNTAIN BARRENS (Dennison and Wright Twps.) NC507 - This site is an example of a Ridgetop Dwarf-Tree Forest Natural Community (NC507). It consists mainly of a scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) forest stretching across several summit areas along a sandstone ridgetop. The natural community occurs on the most exposed portions, with taller oak forests occupying the ravines between the balds. The vegetation ranges from open areas of sandstone bedrock, hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparius), and blueberry (Vaccinium sp.) to dense scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) and emergent pitch pines (Pinus rigida). Some of the pitch pines show evidence of past fires; fires are a natural process that are necessary to maintain the plant community. This habitat is also appropriate for rare Lepidopteran species; although none have been found at this site, several were found in similar habitat at the adjacent Arbutus Peak site (See the Wilkes-Barre East quadrangle for discussion of these species and management requirements for maintaining the natural community). This site is part of State Game Lands 187.
Ephemeral/fluctuating pools, many of which have been filled to make way for development, provide important breeding habitat for several species of amphibians. The EDGEWOOD VERNAL POOLS site is one of the top sites for conservation in Luzerne County.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 71
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Harveys Lake TNC Ranks* State Last Quality*
Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Special Plants: SP509 G5 S1 PE 9/17/82 E SP510 G5 S3 PR 8/23/91 E Special Animals: SA512A G5 S3B,S4N N/A 5/08/99 E SA512B G5 S3B,S3N N/A 5/08/99 E SA512C G5 S3B N/A 2000 BC SA512D G4 S1B PE 2000 BC SA512E G5 S3B N/A 2000 BC SA513 G5 S3S4B,S4N N/A 8/05/99 E SA514 G5 S3S4B,S4N N/A 8/05/99 E SA515 G5 S3S4B,S4N N/A 8/05/99 E HQ-CWF: Beaver Run; Harveys Creek; Pikes Creek
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Harveys Lake Quadrangle:
BEAR HOLLOW (Lake Twp.) - SA515 - This site contains a nesting area for an S3S4B,S4N animal species of concern (SA515) in a small, open wetland along the small stream draining Bear Hollow. The vegetation is a mixture of shrub swamp and wet meadow (Solidago sp. and Eupatorium sp. are present). The species of concern utilize dead red maple and conifer trees along the east edge of the wetland.
Bear Hollow itself is an isolated eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) hollow with a remarkable diversity of breeding amphibian species occupying the stream and several small vernal pools. Among these are spotted salamander (Ambystomata maculatum), northern red salamander (Pseudotriton ruber ruber), mountain dusky salamander (Desmognathus ochrophaeus), northern dusky salamander (Desmognathus fuscus fuscus),
Jefferson salamander (Ambystomata jeffersonianum), redback salamander (Plethodon cinereus), red-spotted newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) and spring peepers (Hyla crucifer crucifer). The surrounding forest has hemlock along the stream course and a diverse second-growth forest of sugar maple (Acer saccharum), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), beech (Fagus grandifolia), white ash (Fraxinus americana), basswood (Tilia americana), and red oak (Quercus rubra) away from the stream. The understory plant species include spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), as well as invasive species such as Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) and old apple trees (Malus sp.). A small dirt road parallels the stream, and some trash has been left in the vernal pools. Leaving the road unimproved and protecting the stream and pools should benefit both the species of concern and the great diversity of other plant and animal species occupying the site.
EAST FORK HARVEYS CREEK SITE- NORTH (Lehman Twp.) - SA514 - This site contains a thin band of riparian forest, which is comprised mostly red maple, on the east fork of Harveys Creek. An animal species of concern (SA514) uses these woods as a breeding area. The site occurs in a largely agricultural area. Although the species is sensitive to disturbance, the current land uses have not deterred the species as it has used the site for many years.
EAST FORK HARVEYS CREEK SITE - SOUTH (Jackson Twp.) - SA513 - This site consists of an impounded area near the state penitentiary on the east fork of Harveys Creek. The habitat is a partially flooded forest of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) with some red maple (Acer rubrum) and other deciduous trees. From a remote distance, the animal species of concern (SA513) was observed using the site The status of the population is unknown. This site has also been used repeatedly for several years and current land uses do not appear to have disturbed the species of concern.
HARVEYS LAKE (Dallas & Lake Twps. in Luzerne County & Monroe Twp. in Wyoming County)
- SP509 & SP510 - Harveys Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Pennsylvania and there are numerous historical records from the lake of plant species now considered rare or endangered. The majority of the shoreline is now developed and impacts from this, as well as from exotic plant species [e.g.,
fanwort, (Cabomba caroliniana)] have changed the habitat dramatically. Populations of one PA-Rare (SP510) and one PA-Endangered plant (SP509) species have been collected from the site by PNDI biologists. These plants were not rediscovered in a survey of the lake in 1999, but much additional habitat remains and it is possible that the species of concern are persisting. Additional surveys are needed to assess these populations. A small portion of the boundary of this site extends into Wyoming County (Noxen quadrangle).
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LEE SWAMP (Lake Twp.) - SA512A, SA512B, SA512C, SA512D, & SA512E - This site located on private property is the 40 to 50-acre former bed of Lee Pond that was drained in the 1950's. The substrate over much of the area is deep, quaking peat. The largest area is dominated by a sedge (Carex utriculata) and marsh cinquefoil (Potentilla palustris), with some cattail (Typha latifolia) marsh and alder (Alnus sp.) thickets.
Five different bird species of special concern have been observed breeding at Lee Swamp in recent years and there is potential habitat for several other listed bird species. Despite past disturbances the site today is one of the largest marshes in the county and clearly provides good nesting habitat for the species of concern. There is no evidence of recent disturbance. Potential threats include runoff from surrounding agricultural fields or changes in the water level that could hasten succession from the current marshy habitat favorable to the species of concern.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Hazleton TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP508 G4 S3 PR 7/31/96 C SP510A G5 S2 TU 7/05/00 C SP510B G5 S2 PE 8/17/99 B Special Animals: SA508 G4G5 S2 N/A 6/30/01 E SA511 G5 S3S4 N/A 2000 E SA512A G3 S1 N/A 9/05/99 BC SA512B G5 S1 N/A 9/05/99 C Natural Community: NC509 G4 S3 N/A 6/22/00 C
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Hazleton Quadrangle:
BLACK CREEK FLATS (Hazle Twp.) SP508 & SA508 - This site is situated in a flat, open area along Black Creek in Hazleton. It appears to have been severely disturbed by mining or other invasive activities in the past. At present it is a mix of open sphagnum (Sphagnum sp.) lawns and shrub swamps of leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), spiraea (Spiraea tomentosa),
and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP508) is scattered throughout the site. This species requires open conditions and benefits from the disturbed soil and slow succession at the site. After seven years of field visits, an invertebrate animal species of concern (SA508) was observed at the site for the first time. Additional surveys of the site are needed to determine the quality of the animal population. The site is being disturbed by litter and fill.
Also, the area is being degraded by fast-growing, weedy plant species. Management of the aggressive plant species may be required.
DRECK CREEK WATERSHED (Hazle Twp.) SP510A, SP510B, SA511, SA512A, & SA512B - This site, which is owned by the City Water Authority of Hazleton, consists of a narrow, wooded stream valley with a small perennial stream that flows into a series of wetlands and eventually to a reservoir that is used for public drinking water. The uplands are largely second-growth oak-heath forest that appears to support a healthy black bear (Ursus americana) population. The area of primary interest is an open wetland with a substrate of shallow peat over sand and exposed conglomerate rock. A good-quality population of a PA-Endangered plant species (SP510B) and a fair-quality population of another plant species of concern (SP510A) occur here. Tawny cotton grass (Eriophorum virginicum) and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.)
dominate this shallow peatland. Other species in the same habitat include sedges (Carex folliculata and Carex canescens), Virginia chain fern (Woodwardia virginica), swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus),
reedgrass (Calamagrostis cinnoides), Canada rush (Juncus canadensis), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), scattered pitch pine (Pinus rigida), red maple (Acer rubrum), and black gum (Nyssa sylvatica). The peatland grades into a rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) swamp and then into hemlock-dominated forest. The presence of pitch pine, the open aspect, and proximity of the Stockton Barrens suggest a history of fire. The peatland may also have been affected in the past by beaver or human impoundments on adjacent Dreck Creek.
Runoff or other disturbance from logging in the adjacent forest, and flooding of the wetland by the reservoir are potential threats to the plant species of concern. An animal species of concern (SA511) was discovered using rocky habitat along a powerline R-O-W south of Dreck Creek. Additional surveys are needed to determine the status of this population. In addition, two rare Lepidopteran species (SA512A & SA512B) were identified. Logging of the site and gypsy moth spraying would be detrimental to these species.
STOCKTON MOUNTAIN BARRENS (Hazle Twp.) NC509, SA512A, & SA512B - This area includes a fair-quality example of a Ridgetop Dwarf-Tree Forest Natural Community (NC509). The site is a mosaic containing low heath areas of sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), sweet fern (Comptonia peregrina), and bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), as well as pitch pine/scrub oak forests and woodlands. Other plant species present include fly poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum), huckleberry (Gaylussacia sp.), gray birch (Betula populifolia), blueberry (Vaccinium sp.), serviceberry (Amelanchier sp.), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), and chokeberry (Aronia sp.). There are several large outcrops of Pottsville Conglomerate rock in the northern portion of the site. These natural communities often have diverse Lepidopteran species. A globally rare Lepidopteran species (SA512A) and a second rare Lepidopteran species (SA512B) were discovered to the south of the Barrens in limited surveys over the course of this study making 78
additional searches warranted. The surrounding area is highly disturbed. The City of Hazleton owns the western edge of the site, and extensive coal mining and other industrial activity has taken place to the north and to the south. The site is also bisected by several powerline R-O-Ws, one paved road, and various ATV trails. Portions of the site burned in the 1990s and the natural community is fire-dependent. Minimizing loss of habitat from ATV activity and maintaining the scrub oak and pitch pine will benefit the rare moth species present.
Acidic shrub swamps like this one at the PIPELINE SWAMP is a unique and fragile natural community found in Luzerne County.
Photo: Aura Stauffer, PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Hickory Run TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP526 G5 S3 PR 9/13/92 B SP531 G5 S3 PR 8/10/99 E Special Animals: SA503A G4 S3S4 PC 2000 E SA503B G5 S3S4 N/A 2000 E SA533 G5 S2B PT 2000 E SA534A G4 S3S4 PC 2000 E SA534B G5 S3S4 N/A 2000 E Managed Areas: State Game Lands #149 Other: sp505, sa511, and sa533
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Hickory Run Quadrangle:
FRANCIS E. WALTER RESERVOIR SITE (Bear Creek Twp.) SP531, SA503A, SA503B, sa511, sa533, SA533 - Three occurrences of a PA-Threatened animal species (sa511, sa533, & SA533) have been monitored at the reservoir area for many years. The species feeds at the reservoir and therefore is dependent on the water quality of Bear Creek and the Lehigh River. The population of the animal species has grown in recent years. The protection of large trees and snags along the waterways is important for the species. Two additional animal species of concern (SA503A & SA503B) occupy the Lehigh River gorge below the dam, using the rock outcrops and cliffs on both sides of the river. This portion of the river is used for recreational boating; care should be taken not to disturb the rock outcrops and overhangs that provide habitat for this species. Additional surveys are needed to evaluate the quality of the animal populations.
A PA-Rare plant species (SP531) occurs on a privately-owned pond near the reservoir. This plant species thrives in areas with good water quality. Sedimentation in the pond or the use of herbicides are potential threats to the plant population of concern. The Francis E. Walter Reservoir Site extends into the Pleasant View Summit quadrangle.
LEHIGH GORGE (Foster Twp. in Luzerne Co. & Kidder Twp. in Carbon Co.) SA534A & SA534B -
Two animal species of concern (SA534A & SA534B) have been observed using this area. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the populations. No management of the two species is needed at this time.
LEHIGH RIVER-ROUTE 115 BRIDGE (Buck Twp. in Luzerne Co. & Tobyhanna Twp. in Monroe Co.) sp505 & SP526 - For the description of this site, please the Pleasant View Summit quadrangle.
The North Branch of the Susquehanna River provides habitat for a globally rare species, the Yellow Lampmussel, as well as other mussel species.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Kingston TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Animals: SA504 G5 S3S4B,S4N N/A 2000 E SA505A G5 S3B N/A 6/2000 E SA505B G5 S3B N/A 6/2000 E Natural Community: NC502 G? S2S4 N/A 6/19/82 E Managed Areas: Frances Slocum State Park Other: sa532 (Kirby Park)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Kingston Quadrangle:
ABRAHAMS CREEK WETLANDS (Kingston Twp.) SA504, SA505A, & SA505B - The site consists of creek-side wetlands impacted by flooding from the damming of the creek downstream in Frances Slocum State Park. Two animal species of concern (SA505A & SA505B) occupy a herbaceous wetland where the creek enters the reservoir, and another species of concern (SA504) breeds in a flooded forested wetland to the north. More habitat data is needed on this site, but the species of concern have been recorded using the site for several years. The preservation of large trees is important to SA504. Maintaining the water quality of Abrahams Creek and stable water levels during the growing season will benefit the species of concern.
ICE CAVES (Jackson & Plymouth Twps.) NC502 - This Talus Cave Natural Community (NC502) on private property has ice caves and a waterfall that drops 50 feet into a high gradient hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) ravine. Other plant species found in the ravine included American yew (Taxus canadensis) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera). The massive ice formations are present into mid-March. Native brook trout have been reported in the stream. This area was last visited in 1982 and should be revisited to obtain updated information and to assess conservation needs.
KIRBY PARK (Kingston Boro.) sa532 - For the description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre West quadrangle.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Lopez TNC Ranks* State Last Species Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP567A G5 S3 PR 7/14/93 C SP567B G5 S3 PR 7/14/93 B Special Animals: SA581 G5 S3B,S3N N/A 4/26/95 E SA584 G5 S3B,S3N N/A 5/04/00 E Managed Areas: State Game Lands # 57 Other: sa559
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Lopez Quadrangle:
COUNTY LINE SWAMP (Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne County, Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County, & Colley Twp. in Sullivan County) SP567A, SP567B, & SA581 - County Line Swamp is found on State Game Lands #57. The swamp was apparently logged in the late 1800s or early 1900s and has remained a shrub swamp with little encroachment by trees since that time. Two PA-Rare plant species (SP567A & SP567B) were identified at the site in 1993. The populations of both rare plant species are healthy and there does not appear to be any threats. New locations of an S3B,S3 animal species (SA581) were discovered in State Game Lands 57 in April of 1995. Additional surveys are needed to determine the numbers of this species present in the SGLs. The preservation of snags and older trees would benefit this animal. The majority of this site lies in Wyoming County.
OPPERMAN PASS (Fairmount Twp.) SA584 & sa559 - For the description of this site, please see the Red Rock quadrangle.
88
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Nanticoke TNC Ranks* Federal State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP501A G5 S3 N/A TU 8/21/91 B SP501B G5? S1 N/A PE 8/13/92 C SP513 G5 S3 N/A PR 8/27/99 B SP515 G5 S3 N/A PR 6/16/92 D SP517A G5 S3 N/A PR 8/27/99 B SP517B G5 S3 N/A PR 8/27/99 B SP519 G5 S3 N/A PR 8/24/00 CD SP525A G5 S3 N/A PR 6/21/00 B SP525B G5 S2 N/A TU 6/21/00 C Special Animals: SA512A G2 SUB,S1N LE PE 10/09/96 B SA512B G4 S3B,S3N N/A N/A 10/09/96 E SA518A G5 SH N/A N/A 9/29/95 D SA518B G3G4 S3S4 N/A N/A 9/29/95 D SA519 G4 S3S4 (PS) N/A 8/24/00 CD SA527 G5 S3B N/A N/A 2000 E Natural Communities: NC503 G? S3 N/A N/A 6/21/00 BC NC526 G? S3 N/A N/A 6/21/00 E Locally Significant: Shickshinny Mountain Slopes Managed Areas: State Game Lands #224 Other : sp509, sp522 (Penobscot Mountain Ridgetop); sa535A, sa535b, sa535c (Nanticoke Marsh)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Nanticoke Quadrangle:
CRANBERRY POND (Slocum Twp.) NC503, SP525A, SP525B - Cranberry Pond is a large glacial kettlehole pond with concentric rings of vegetation surrounding open water in the center. It is a fair- to good-quality example of an Oligotrophic Glacial Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (NC503) that is located on private property. The gravel road around the west end of the pond forms an earth and rock dam that may have altered the hydrology somewhat. However, the low shrub and sedge areas appear intact and are largely free of exotic plant species. A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP525A) is one of the dominant species over much of the floating mat. It is associated with leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata),
sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia) cranberry (Vaccinium sp.), cotton-grass (Eriophorum virginicum), sedges (Carex canescens and Carex. utriculata), beak-rush (Rhynchospora alba), bog buckbean (Menyanthes trifoliata), Canada rush (Juncus canadensis), arrowhead (Sagittaria sp.), pitcher-plant (Sarracenia purpurea),
sundew (Drosera intermedia), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.). The abundance of this species may indicate a raised pH due to groundwater input or some influence of flooding. A fair-quality population of another plant species of concern (SP525B) occurs in mucky depressions near the edge of the open water with many of the same associated species. Both of these populations are reproducing and no immediate threats or management needs are apparent. The site also has an extraordinary diversity of amphibians, including the only Luzerne County occurrence of the northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans crepitans), and at least nine different species of salamanders.
This is one of the top priority sites for conservation in Luzerne County. There is a good diversity of bog flora and potential for additional plant, as well as animal species of concern to be found. Cranberry Pond is hydrologically linked to adjacent glacial wetlands (Folstown Mud Pond, Lily Lake). The health of the natural community and its associated species will depend on maintaining water quality throughout the watershed - upstream, upslope on Penobscot Mountain, and downstream at Lily Lake. The pond, the surrounding forest, and adjacent lands are owned by the farm south of the site. Efforts should be made to assist the landowner in continuing to protect this unique site for the future.
FOLSTOWN MUD POND (Slocum Twp.) SP517A & SP517B - Folstown Mud Pond is a glacial wetland apparently impacted by damming and road - building at its western end. The pond may have once been a bog that was inundated when the pond was created. The pond, which is currently used for recreational for boating and fishing, has two parts connected by a narrow channel. The area of the pond closest to the road contains more sediment and floating aquatic plants. This part of the pond is dominated by water shield (Brasenia schreberi), water lily (Nymphaea odorata), and spatterdock (Nuphar lutea).
Two good-quality populations of two different PA-Rare plant species (SP517A & SA517B) were identified at the site. The threats to the site include nutrient and sediment load from nearby farms, homes, and the roadway. Management recommendations include protecting the water quality of the site and continued monitoring of the species of concern.
GLEN LYON ANTHRACITE MINE SITE (Newport Twp.) SA512A & SA512B - One Federally Threatened animal species (SA512A) and another PA animal species of concern (SA512B) occupy the same man-made habitat at this site. The full extent of these populations are unknown. To persist, the species require not only the mine as a hibernacula, but also adequate nearby feeding areas. The mine occurs in a highly disturbed area with many abandoned mine shafts and tailings areas amid a matrix of a young successional forest. The tree species present include black and grey birch (Betula lenta and Betula populifolia), aspen (Populus sp.), and sassafras (Sassafras albidum). There is some evidence of human disturbance within the mine entrance, and of litter and use of the site as a party spot. The site needs to 91
have continued monitoring of the populations and protection of the mine entrance by gating or other means to prevent disturbance of the rare species.
LILY LAKE (Conyngham & Slocum Twps.) SP501A, SP501B, & SP513- This site is a natural glacial lake downstream of the Cranberry Pond site. Three plant species of concern occur at the site (SP510A, SP510B, and SP513). Two of these grow rooted in shallow water along the sandy shoreline at the west end of the lake near the outlet. The associated plant species include St. Johns wort (Hypericum virginicum), pipewort (Eriocaulon septangulare), and grass-leaved arrowhead (Sagittaria graminea). The third plant species is a floating aquatic species growing at the same site and floating throughout the lake.
The plant is associated with pondweed (Potamogeton epihydrus), spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris),
quillwort (Isoetes sp.), water-shield (Brasenia schreberi), and bladderworts (Utricularia sp.). There is a PA Fish and Boat Commission boat launch at this corner of the lake, and some habitat destruction has occurred. Nonetheless adequate habitat remains for the species of concern. Care should be taken to preserve the windward (southeastern) sandy shoreline areas from disturbance, and to maintain a no-wake zone here to prevent excessive shoreline erosion by waves.
NANTICOKE MARSH (Nanticoke Boro. & Hanover Twp.) sa535A, sa535B, & sa535C - For a description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre West quadrangle.
PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP NC526, sp509, & sp522 - For a description of this site, please see Wilkes-Barre West quadrangle.
SHICKSHINNY MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP (Plymouth Twp.) SA519 & SP519 - This site includes populations of a fair to poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP519), and a population of an animal species of concern (SA519). The plant species of concern was growing out of thin soil on a narrow ridgetop spine. The plant species occurs in open habitat with areas of exposed conglomerate bedrock.
The associated plant species include black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), blueberry (Vaccinium sp.,)
blackberry (Rubus alleghaniensis), hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa), sorrel (Rumex acetosella), dogbane (Apoycynum androsaefolium), bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinium), cowwheat (Melampyrum lineare),
rock-harlequin (Corydalis sempervirens), turkey-foot grass (Andropogon gerardii), and marginal wood fern (Dryopteris marginalis). The sparse overstory included pitch pine, (Pinus rigida), chestnut oak (Quercus prinus), and fire cherry (Prunus pennsylvanica). The site appears to have burned. Competition from blackberry or other species, succession to a closed canopy, and deer browse are all threats to this small population. However, there is likely to be additional habitat along the ridgetop to the southwest. No special management of the site is recommended.
The animal species of concern was collected from open grassy habitat along a large powerline right-of-way just north of the ridgetop. Additional surveys are needed to determine the extent of this population.
The right-of-way contained a mixture of grasses and shrubby vegetation, including turkey-foot grass (Andropogon gerardii), goldenrod (Solidago sp.), and dogwood (Cornus racemosa and Cornus florida).
The powerline runs the length of Shickshinny Mountain, presumably providing extensive additional potential habitat. Spraying of the powerline or the adjacent forest with pesticide could affect the population. This site occurs within Lackawanna State Forest.
Shickshinny Mountain Slopes (Plymouth Twp.) - This Locally Significant site occurs on a saddle or cove on the north slope of Shickshinny Mountain, near the headwaters of Hunlock Creek. The forest community is second-growth northern-hardwood of intermediate age. The dominant tree species include 92
sugar maple (Acer saccharum), American basswood (Tilia americana), white ash (Fraxinus americana),
black cherry (Prunus serotina), white oak (Quercus alba), and eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). The site is designated as Locally Significant because of the high diversity of wildflower species present. Some of these species are associated with high-pH or nutrient-rich conditions. Several rock outcrops with small seeps occur just upslope of the site, perhaps the source of the rich soil conditions. Herbaceous and shrub species present include maple-leaved viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium), witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum), false Solomons seal (Smilacina racemosa), wild sarsaparilla (Aralia nudicaulis), silvery spleenwort (Deparia acrostichoides), wire grass (Brachyelytrum erectum), wild ginger (Asarum canadense), bellwort (Uvularia perfoliatum), liver-leaf (Hepatica americana), baneberry (Actaea rubra), sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis), royal fern (Osmunda claytoniana), Canada mayflower (Maianthemum canadense), sweet-cicely (Osmorhiza claytonii),
moonseed (Menispermum canadense), and many others. The site has potential for several rare plant species of concern and should be revisited in late spring. Establishing a small no disturbance zone around the site would prevent disturbance to the soil and the diversity of the wildflowers present.
SLOCUM MARSH (Slocum Twp.) SA527 - Slocum Marsh is a large 15 to 20-acre cattail wetland. An animal species of concern (SA527) has been using the marsh for breeding since 1998. The marsh is surrounded by agriculture and previous disturbance has likely created the cattail marsh habitat that is appropriate for the animal species. Draining and pesticide use are potential threats. Additional visits are needed to determine the population size and to obtain a more detailed habitat description.
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT NANTICOKE (Nanticoke Boro. & Plymouth Twp.) SA518A &
SA518B - Very few specimens of the two mussel species of concern were collected here in 1995.
Surveys in 2000 failed to discover any live mussel fauna. This portion of the North Branch of the Susquehanna River has suffered from acid mine drainage, and water quality continues to be compromised by the inflow of Lackawanna River at Wilkes-Barre. It is possible that as the river recovers, the rare species will be able to re-establish itself from populations living above the Lackawanna or downstream of the mine-impact area. No special management is recommended.
TILBURY KNOB (Plymouth Twp.) SP515 - A poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP515) occurs at this site on the crest of a red shale cliff in xeric, thin soils. The associated plant species include hairgrass (Agrostis hyemalis), blueberry (Vaccinum sp.), Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana), sweet birch (Betula lenta), chokeberry (Aronia sp.), and various oak species. No special management is recommended for this site.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Noxen TNC Ranks State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status Seen Quality NONE EV STREAMS: Sorber Run, originating on the Noxen quadrangle, is an Exceptional Value stream for its entire Luzerne County portion.
Other: sp509 & sp510 (Harveys Lake).
COUNTY LINE ISLAND is an example of an island/river gravel community that supports an interesting array of plants and animals.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
94
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Nuremberg TNC Ranks State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status Seen Quality NONE Only a small portion of Luzerne County appears on this quadrangle. No species of special concern, exemplary Natural Communities, or Locally Significant sites were identified in this part of the county. However, other areas important to natural diversity may occur in townships on this quadrangle.
96
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Pittston TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP504A G5 S2 PE 8/14/96 D SP504B G5 S1 PE 7/06/88 E SP505 G5 S2 PE 8/14/96 B SP506 G5 S3 PR 8/14/96 D SP529A G5 S1 TU 5/01/98 D SP529B G5 S1 TU 8/20/97 D SP530 G5 S1 TU 5/22/95 E Special Animals: SA511 G5 S2S3B N/A 5/08/87 E SA531 G4 S1B,S1N PE 6/0700 B SA537 G4 S3S4 PC 5/11/00 E Natural Communities: NC501 G? S2 N/A 6/22/83 E NC502 G2? S1 N/A 9/18/86 E Geologic Feature: GE501 G? S? N/A 1979 E
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
98
Pittston Quadrangle:
CAMPBELLS LEDGE (Pittston Twp.) NC501, NC502, SP504A, SP504B, SP505, SP506, SP529A, SP529B, SP530, & GE501 - Campbells Ledge, which is situated on the summit of a ridge overlooking the North Branch of the Susquehanna River, provides a spectacular view of the river valley. This unique site was identified as a Northern Appalachian Calcareous Cliff Natural Community (NC501) and a Northern Appalachian Calcareous Rocky Summit Natural Community (NC502). Also, the state classified this area as a unique geologic feature (Erosional Remanant-GE501) in 1979. Portions of the middle and upper slopes, particularly below the outlook, have prominent exposed cliffs with sheer drop-offs. The cliffs, bluffs, and other slopes near the summit have severe growing conditions due to the thin, rocky soil, steep terrain, exposure to wind, and the frequency of fire. The vegetation in these areas, consisting of scrubby woodland, shrub thickets, and small herb-dominated openings, provide the habitat for seven state-listed plant species of special concern, as well as a number of other plant species that occur infrequently in the state. An additional twelve state-listed plant species of special concern are known historically at Campbells Ledge, but have not been confirmed in recent years; several of these species are of limestone affinity. There is also an historic record of an animal species of concern at the Ledge, but additional surveys are needed to confirm the presence of the species.
In contrast to the vegetation of the cliffs and dry slopes, the stream that exits Falling Springs Reservoir and descends the northwestern portion of the ridge drains a cool, moist ravine that features a waterfall and supports a mesic flora, including the Canada yew (Taxus canadensis). The disturbances on the ridge include previous logging, previous mining, numerous jeep and ATV trails, exotic plant species, and litter. The habitat in the vicinity of the outlook has been degraded by excessive foot and vehicular traffic. Potential threats include development and additional logging. The site, which extends on to the Ransom quadrangle, should continue to be monitored.
GARDNER CREEK RESERVOIR (Jenkins & Plains Twps.) SA537 - This site consists of an extensive rock outcrop area north of the Gardner Creek reservoir. An animal species of concern exists at the site (SA537). The forest is relatively young (40+ years). The dominant trees includes chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) and other oaks, while the understory is dominated by huckleberry (Gaylussacia sp.), and blueberry (Vaccinium sp.). The hillside with the rock outcrops recently burned (spring of 2000). There are no apparent disturbances to the site at this time. An extensive clearcut or development of the site are potential threats. Additional surveys are needed to determine the status of the animal population.
PITTSTON ROOKERY (Pittston & Exeter Boros. & Jenkins Twp.) SA511 -This site is an island in the North Branch of the Susquehanna River that was an active nesting area for an animal species of concern (SA511) for ten years. The island was not visited during the field surveys for the Natural Areas Inventory, but the nesting area has been reported to be no longer active. A field visit during breeding is needed to confirm this report.
ROUTE 309 BRIDGE SITE (Wilkes-Barre City, Plains Twp., & Forty-Fort Boro.) SA531 - A G4, PA-Endangered animal species (SA531) has occurred at this site since 1999. The surrounding land use is transportation, business, recreational, and residential. The nearby shoreline is an alluvial substrate with fill around the bridge piers. The vegetation on the river banks includes silver maple (Acer saccharinum), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), box elder (Acer negundo), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), white mulberry (Morus alba), crown vetch (Coronilla varia), dames rocket (Hesperis matronalis), eastern ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius), garlic mustard (Allaria officinalis), honeysuckle 100
(Lonicera sp.), and Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). The surrounding present land use does not seem to disturb the animal species that occurs here. However, increased boat or jet ski traffic in the river due to the proposed inflatable dam is a possible threat.
The Allegheny Woodrat, which historically was found, may no longer occur in Luzerne County.
Photo: Richard Light 101
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Pleasant View Summit TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP505 G5T5 S? N/A 7/28/99 C SP512 G5 S3 PR 6/23/99 C SP517 G5 S3 PR 8/31/99 B SP530 G5 S3 PR 6/24/99 B SP531 G4G5 S3 N/A 8/31/99 E SP532 G4 S2 PT 8/11/99 B SP534 G4 S2 PT 7/18/00 C SP535 G5 S3 PR 7/18/00 CD SP536 G5 S3 PR 7/18/00 CD SP537 G5 S3 PR 8/10/99 B SP539 G5 S2 N/A 8/03/99 BC Special Animals: SA511 G5 S2B PT 7/12/00 E SA532 G4G5 S2 N/A 7/17/99 E SA533 G5 S2B PT 2000 E SA538 G4G5 S2 N/A 8/10/99 E SA540 G5 S3B,S3N N/A 2000 E SA541 G2G3 S2 N/A 10/04/00 BC Natural Communities: NC501 G4 S3 N/A 9/18/86 B NC530 G? S3 N/A 6/24/99 B NC533 G? S1 N/A 7/18/00 C NC539 G? S3 N/A 8/03/99 BC HQ-CWF: Lehigh River Managed Areas: State Game Lands #91 & State Game Lands #119 Other: sp524, nc504 (Wyoming Mountain Barrens); sp526 (Lehigh River-Rt. 115 Bridge); sp531, sa503A, sa503B, sa533 (Francis E. Walter Reservoir Site); sa535 (Pipeline Swamp North) 102
Pleasant View Summit Quadrangle:
BEAR CREEK AT SHADES CREEK (Bear Creek Twp.) SP537 - Bear Creek and Shades Creek are rocky, quick-moving streams predominantly shaded by hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis). The rocky and coarse sandy substrate of the creeks provides habitat for a good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP537). The dominant herbaceous plant species include turtlehead (Chelone glabra),
sedges (Carex sp.), bulrush (Scirpus sp.), and bent grass (Agrostis sp.). The adjacent riverbanks have hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), beech (Fagus grandifolia), swamp azalea (Rhododendron viscosum),
mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), aster (Aster sp.), panic grass (Panicum sp.), a sedge (Carex stricta),
New York fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis), water horehound (Lycopus uniflorus), marsh St. Johns wort (Triadenum sp.), and a small amount of Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). The knotweed is not currently impacting the plant species of concern but can be aggressive and should be monitored. No deer browsing of the plants was seen. The water quality and the present hydrology of the streams should be maintained, as well as a forested buffer along the stream banks.
BEHLER SWAMP (Bear Creek and Buck Twps. in Luzerne County & Lehigh Twp. in Lackawanna County) SP517, SP531, & SA540 - This site is part of State Game Land #91 and the Lackawanna State Forest. Populations of two separate plant species of concern exist here. A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP517) was first identified at the site in 1991. The population was monitored in 1996 and again in 1999. SP517 was found on both sides of a hiking trail in both Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. The associated species include sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.),
common hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa), Brachyelytrum (Brachyelytrum erectum), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus), and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). A second plant population of concern (SP531) was discovered in 1999. SP531 was found along the banks of Choke Creek that is bordered by a young deciduous forest (20-30 years old). More surveys of the creek are needed before the quality of this population can be assessed. The vegetation surrounding the creek included red maple (Acer rubrum), white pine (Pinus strobus), red spruce (Picea rubens), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), New York fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis), and a sedge (Carex gynandra).
Species associated with SP531 included sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), fly-poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum), poverty grass (Aristida dichotoma), and mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia). The site and land surrounding the site, within the State Game Land and State Forest, is primarily used for recreation including hunting and hiking. Much of the land beyond the State Game Land and State Forest boundaries remains undeveloped with the exception of a couple of residential developments (e.g., Meadow Run and Indian Lake). Both populations could potentially be affected from trampling by hikers using the trail. Also, browsing by deer could pose a threat. Lastly, SP531 would be impacted if beavers change the hydrology of Choke Creek.
An animal species of concern (SA540) was observed nesting at the site in 2000. The preservation of larger trees and snags would greatly benefit this species. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of the population.
CANADA BOG (Bear Creek Twp.) SP539 & NC539 - The site is a fairly intact floating Oligotrophic Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (NC539) surrounded by a beaver-impacted spruce and tall shrub swamp. The substrate is a deep sphagnous peat. The area of interest is a circular (approximately 50-meter-diameter) quaking sphagnum bog. There are patches of leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata),
scattered tamarack (Larix laricina), and sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), but most of the bog is 104
dominated by low vegetation, including large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), beak rush (Rhynchospora alba), sedges (Carex trisperma & Carex utriculata), cottongrass (Eriphorum virginicum),
sundews (Drosera intermedia & Drosera rotundifolia), pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea), horned bladderwort (Utricularia cornuta), and yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.) A plant species of special concern (SP539) occurs in the center of the bog in low mucky pools and is associated with sundews (Drosera intermedia) and yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.).
Much of the natural community consists of very early successional bog habitat dominated by horned bladderwort (Utricularia cornuta), yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.), and beaked rush (Rhynchospora alba).
The surrounding swamp is a thick shrub swamp of young red maple (Acer rubrum), tamarack (Larix laricina), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronata), and woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus) in the openings. A beaver dam and impoundment exists north of the natural community. The Canada Bog may have been affected by fluctuating water levels in the past, but remains as one of the few intact floating bogs in the county. Additional flooding by beaver or draining by humans are the only identifiable threats. A portion of this site lies in State Game Lands #91.
DRY LAND HILL POOLS (Buck Twp.) SP532 & SA532 - This site consists of two large vernal pools in a matrix of typical dry, acid, oak-heath forest. The substrate is hemic/sappric sedge peat. A plant species of concern (SP532) is the dominant plant in the larger pool and is also present in the second pool.
No open water was present in this severe drought year. It is likely that the center of the pools are inundated during the growing season. The site has probably burned in the past. The associated plant species in decreasing order of abundance include three-way sedge (Dulichium arundinaceum), marsh St.
Johns wort (Triadenum sp.), loosestrife (Lysimachia terrestris), iris (Iris versicolor), large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), and Canada rush (Juncus canadensis). Additional species in wetland habitat between and along the margin of the pools include a sedge (Carex stricta), fowl mannagrass (Glyceria canadensis), royal fern (Osmunda regalis), woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus), chain fern (Woodwardia virginica), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), highbush blueberry (Vacccinium corymbosum), and red maple (Acer rubrum). A deer trail runs through the site, but no browse was seen on the plant species of concern.
An S2 animal species of concern (SA532) was identified in 1999. This inconspicuous invertebrate animal species uses cranberry as its host plant. The spraying of pesticides or herbicides is a potential threat for SA532.
Recently, the woods to the south were heavily logged. The long -term threats to the pools include succession of the shrub-thicket margins, and human disturbance by draining or dumping of logging slash in pools. Buffering the pools from logging would protect both species of concern from harmful disturbance. The North Branch Land Trust is working to protect this site.
FRANCIS E. WALTER RESERVOIR SITE (Bear Creek Twp.) sp531, sa503A, sa503B, SA511, SA533, & sa533 - For the description of this site, please see the Hickory Run quadrangle.
INDIAN LAKE SWAMP (Buck Twp.) SP536 - The site is characterized by red-spruce mixed hardwood palustrine forested swamp near Indian Lake on private property and State Game Lands 91. A small population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP536) was found growing on hummocks. The substrate is shallow sphagnous peat. The canopy is relatively open with much young spruce regeneration and well-developed pit-and-mount microtopography. The estimated tree canopy height was 50-60 ft and the estimated average tree size was 6-8"diameter at breast height (dbh). The overstory tree species include eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), red spruce (Picea rubens), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), and 105
red maple (Acer rubrum). The understory species were red spruce (Picea rubens), rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). The dominant groundcover species include sphagnum moss, (Sphagnum sp.), sedges (Carex trisperma, & Carex folliculata), goldthread (Coptis trifolium), star flower (Trientalis borealis), and Canada mayflower (Maianthemum candense). The swamp becomes dominated with highbush blueberry as you travel west.
No disturbance, with the exception of deer browse, was noted at the site. Threats include development and logging. The site should be monitored and additional searches for the plant species are needed.
LEHIGH RIVER-ROUTE 115 BRIDGE (Buck Twp. in Luzerne Co. & Tobyhanna Twp. in Monroe Co.) SP505 & sp526 - Two aquatic plant species of concern (SP505 & sp526) were identified at the site in 1991 and 1992. The river was revisited in 1999 and a fair-quality population of SP505 was once again found at the site. The quality of the population in 1993 was ranked as good (B). No search for sp526 was conducted during the brief 1999 visit. The associated plant and animal species include river weed (Podostemum ceratophyllum), pondweed (Potamogeton sp.), eastern elliptio (Elliptio complanata), common shiner (Luxilus cornutus), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), spottail shiner (Notropis hudsonius), tesselated darter (Etheostoma olmstedi), shield darter (Percina peltata), white sucker (Catostomus commersoni), margined madtom (Noturus insignis), blacknose dace (Rhinichthys atratulus), longnose dace (Rhinichthys cataractae), fallfish (Semotilus corporalis), caddisflies (Trichoptera), and crayfish (Decapoda). The reduction in numbers of the plant species of concern could have been due to lower than normal water levels during the drought year when the site was visited. A great deal of siltation in the river was also noted. Scour may have reduced the number of plants since the last visit. The continued siltation and degradation of water quality of the Lehigh River are potential threats. The site extends to the Hickory Run and Thornhurst quadrangles.
Also included at this site is the major waterfall of the Lehigh River, the Stoddartsville Falls. The river has formed these jagged 25-foot high falls by cutting through flat-lying beds of sandstone (Geyer and Bolles, 1987).
MUD POND (Bear Creek Twp.) SP512 - In 1992 and 1999, a marginal population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP512) was located along a creek that outlets Mud Pond and eventually crosses beneath SR 2035.
The associated plant species include leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), meadowsweet (Spiraea latifolia), reedgrass (Calamagrostis cinnoides), cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), red maple (Acer rubrum), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), rice-cut grass (Leersia oryzoides), and rattlesnake mannagrass (Glyceria canadensis). The population of SP512 is threatened by changes in hydrology, deer browse, roadside litter, and road de-icing agents. In order to protect these plant species, the current site hydrology should be maintained. Beaver trapping may become necessary if they become too numerous at this site.
MUD POND WOODS (Bear Creek Twp.) SA541 - This site consists of a moist second-growth oak-heath forest. A globally rare invertebrate species (SA541) was found here at several locations in 2000. The species is dependent upon the fly-poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum) that is abundant in the groundcover, particularly in the slightly more mesic areas. The threats to the species include logging, the use of herbicides, or spraying for gypsy moth.
PIPELINE SWAMP (Bear Creek Twp.) SP530 & NC530 - This site provides a good-quality example of an Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural Community (NC530). A good-quality population of a PA -Rare plant species (SP530) was found growing in the open portion of this wetland. The associated plant species include leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), rhodora (Rhododendron canadense), chokeberry (Aronia 106
sp.), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), and cotton grass (Eriophorum vaginatum). The northern part of the bog contained more tree and larger shrub species including red spruce (Picea rubens), American larch (Larix laricina), and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum).
The land surrounding the bog is mostly forested. The land use is recreational (mostly hunting) and is part of SGL # 91. A gas pipeline is adjacent to the west-side of the bog. The bog probably extended farther west at one time, but this area was destroyed when the pipeline was created. A large shrub swamp dominated by blueberry (Vaccinium sp.) lies west of the pipeline, but this area was degraded in the past by beaver activity.
The threats to the area include maintenance activities associated with the nearby pipeline, some deer browse, and beaver activity. Management implications include no spraying of herbicides in the vicinity of the bog and no additional widening of the pipeline R-O-W. No current beaver activity was noted during the field visit, but control of the beaver population may be needed if they once again move into this area.
The current site hydrology should be maintained.
PIPELINE SWAMP NORTH (Bear Creek Twp.) sa535 - For the description of this site, please see the Avoca quadrangle.
RED BEAR SWAMP (Bear Creek Twp.) SA538 - This site is a small high-elevation wetland dominated by sedges (Carex stricta), large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.). An invertebrate species of concern (SA538) was collected here in 2000. Cedar waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum) and a broad-winged hawk (Buteo platypterus) were also observed during a brief 1999 field visit. Additional surveys are needed to determine the quality of this population.
SHADES GLEN HEADWATERS (Bear Creek Twp.) NC533, SP534, SP535 This area is a heath-dominated shrubland with patches of scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) and occasional pitch pine (Pinus rigida). In 2000, this site was mapped as a fair occurrence of a Mesic Scrub Oak-Heath-Pitch Pine Barrens (NC533). Sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia) and rhodora (Rhodora canadense) are co-dominant plant species along with serviceberry (Amelanchier sp.), pitch pine (Pinus rigida), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), sweet fern (Comptonia peregrina) and raspberries and blackberries (Rubus sp.).
The sparse (estimated 10-15%) herbaceous plant layer includes fly poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum),
ricegrass (Oryzopsis asperifolia), poverty grass (Danthonia spicata), hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa),
and bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum). The soil is a stony silt loam (Morris series) formed in acidic glacial till and poorly drained with a fragipan. Therefore, the "barrens" vegetation appears to be due to factors (e.g., fire history, site function as a frost pocket) other than xeric soil conditions. The barrens should be revisited for more thorough vegetation and soil sampling, and to determine its relation to the till barrens of Long Pond. Additionally, Lepidopteran surveys are needed.
A PA-Threatened plant species (SP534) and a PA-Rare plant species (SP535) were identified in a swamp at this site. The habitat containing the species of concern has a few, stunted trees (Acer rubrum, Picea rubens, Pinus strobus, and Betula populifolia) and occasional tall shrubs (Alnus sp., Spiraea latifolia, and Chamaedaphne calyculata) but is largely unshaded and dominated by herbaceous plants and low shrubs.
The groundcover is dominated by sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), a sedge (Carex trisperma), and cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea). The substrate is shallow sphagnous peat. To protect the site and species of concern, the hydrology of the site should be preserved.
WYOMING MOUNTAIN BARRENS (Bear Creek Twp.) sp524, NC501, & nc504 - For a description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre East quadrangle.
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The Flypoison Borer Moth is a globally rare species that is known to occur only in Pennsylvania.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Ransom TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plant: SP524 G5 S3 PR 9/01/99 C Special Animals: SA519A G5 SH N/A 9/29/95 D SA519B G3G4 S3S4 N/A 9/02/99 C SA520 G3G4 S3S4 N/A 9/02/99 C SA525 G3G4 S3S4 N/A 9/01/99 C Other: sp504A, sa504B, sp505, sp506, sp530, nc501, nc502, ge501 (Campbell Ledge)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Ransom Quadrangle:
CAMPBELLS LEDGE (Pittston Twp.) nc501, nc502, sp504A, sp504B, sp505, sp506, sp529A, sp529B, sp530, & ge501 - For the description of this site, please see the Pittston quadrangle.
COUNTY LINE ISLANDS (Falls & Exeter Twps. in Wyoming County, Newton Twp. in Lackawanna County, and Exeter Twp. in Luzerne County) SP525 & SA525 - This island/river gravel community was first visited in 1996. A marginal population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP524) occurs in an open, scour area of the island. The associated plant species include turkeyfoot (Andropogon gerardii),
switch grass (Panicum virgatum), grape (Vitis riparia), Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), and cocklebur (Xanthium echinatum). When the site was revisited in 1999, SP524 was found again along with a new marginal population of a G3G4 animal species (SA525). The animal species was found in a riffle area in a cobble/gravel substrate along with ridged-wedge mussel (Alasmidonta marginata). Many exotic plant species such as crown vetch (Coronilla varia) are growing on the island. Threats to the plant species include competition with invasive plant species, deer browse, and changes in hydrology (e.g., construction of new dams). Any changes in hydrology and water pollution would affect the animal species.
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT DURYEA (Exeter Twp in Luzerne County and Ransom Twp. in Lackawanna County) SA520 - A marginal quality population of an animal species of concern (SA520) was found in the North Branch of the Susquehanna River in an unshaded riffle area in sand with cobble and boulder substrate. The associated animal species include elktoe (Alasmidonta marginata) and one shell each of triangle floater (Alasmidonta undulata) and eastern floater (Pyganodon cataracta). Some algae and water stargrass (Heteranthera dubia) grew in this riffle area. The river is bordered to the east by railroad tracks and to the west by a sand/cobble/boulder shelf area directly adjacent to the river. An industry (possible mining) is located southwest of the animal population. Siltation and degradation of water quality from surrounding land use (residential and industrial) threaten the site. Conservation of the water quality is important for the survival of this species.
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT EXETER (Exeter Twp. in Luzerne County & Ransom & Newton Twps. in Lackawanna County) SA519A & SA519B - This section of the North Branch of the Susquehanna River was first surveyed in 1995. It contains riffle areas with cobble/gravel/sand substrate. A small population of an aquatic animal species of concern (SP519A) was identified during the 1995 survey. In 1999, the site was revisited and a fair-quality population of a second animal species of concern (SA519B), which was believed to no longer occur at the site, was rediscovered. The associated plant and animal species include water stargrass (Heteranthera dubia), elktoe (Alasmidonta marginata), and Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea). The potential threats include changes in water quality or temperature and sedimentation.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Red Rock TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP505 G5 S3 PR 8/05/96 BC SP506 G4 S2 PT 10/02/97 B SP514 G5 S1 PE 6/11/88 D SP532 G5 S3 PR 10/02/97 B SP537A G5 S1 TU 5/21/98 BC SP537B G5 S1 PE 5/21/98 B SP542A G4G5 S3 N/A 8/20/93 E SP542B G5 S2 PE 7/21/00 A SP542C G5 S2 N/A 7/21/00 B SP545 G5 S3 TU 8/05/96 C SP550 G5? S1 N/A 5/04/97 CD SP553 G5 S3 PR 7/21/00 CD SP562A G3 S1 PE 6/25/01 BC SP562B G4G5 S3 N/A 6/25/01 BC Special Animals: SA543 G4 S2S3 N/A 8/25/93 B SA551 G5 S3B,S3N N/A 5/04/00 E SA555 G4 S1S3 N/A 6/03/00 C SA556 G5 S2 N/A 6/04/00 C SA557 G4 S3 N/A 6/04/00 BC SA558 G5T5 S2 N/A 6/03/00 C SA559 G5 S1S2B PT 8/15/98 B S2S3B SA561 G5 N/A 7/16/97 E S3N Geologic Feature: GE534 G? S? N/A 1979 E Locally Significant: Grand View Other: sp514A, sp514B, sp514C, sp514D, sp514E, sa524, sa525 HQ-CWF: Kitchen Creek (The Meadows/Beech Lake); sa584 (Opperman Pass)
Managed Areas: Ricketts Glen State Park, The Glens Natural Area 112
Red Rock Quadrangle:
BENTON STATION FIELDS (Fairmount Twp.) SA557, SP562A, & SP562B - This site, which is also known as the Hayfields, is found in Ricketts Glen State Park. It contains a small wet swale surrounded by a dry open meadows with flat-topped white aster (Aster umbellatus), milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), and grasses (Poaceae). An S3, G4 invertebrate animal species (SA557) was identified here in 2000. This species uses flat-topped white aster as its host plant. The threats to the animal species include mowing of the field in the spring and summer when the larvae are feeding on vegetation. A rotating schedule of mowing that includes mowing one-third of the field every year in late October is optimal for maintaining habitat for the species of concern. A field with mowed and unmowed areas provides a variety of vegetation height and structure. Additionally, at least six inches of stubble must be left as a vegetative buffer for overwintering eggs and larvae.
Extensive stands of flat-topped white aster exist on the west-side of the highway and along game land roads west of Splashdam Pond (Sullivan Co.). Some stands of Aster umbellatus also occur around ponds, along unimproved dirt roads, and food plots of game lands on North Mountain. Searches of these areas are needed to determine the extent of the animal species of concern.
In 2001, a new population of PA-Endangered, G3 plant species of concern (SP562A) and a new population of an S3 plant species of concern (SP562B) were mapped in a wet meadow. Populations of these plant species occur at other nearby locations.
This site may be partially impacted by the current logging activities in the park. The field should be restored upon the conclusion of the logging. Deer browse and potential spraying of herbicides are also threats to the species of concern. The site should continue to be monitored.
Grand View (Fairmount Twp.). This Locally Significant site within Ricketts Glen State Park is the highest point on Red Rock Mountain (2,449 feet) providing a spectacular overlook on the rim of the Allegheny Front (Geyer and Bolles, 1987). The approximately 1,200 feet of relief at Grand View is due to the vast difference in the erosional character of the red sandstone, siltstone, and shale that underlie the rolling hills to the south, and the hard, conglomerate that forms the rim of the Front and the plateau to the north (Geyer and Bolles, 1987).
KITCHEN CREEK FALLS (Fairmount Twp.) GE534 - A scenic gorge that crosses the Allegheny Front, this geologic feature consists of a series of waterfalls and rapids in the Glens Natural Area. The gorge descends 1,000 feet over three miles and includes over 25 falls.
KITCHEN CREEK RAVINES (Fairmount Twp.) SP514, SP537A, SP537B, & SP550 - The gorge and waterfalls host a unique assortment of plant life including four plant species of concern. Two of the plant species found at this site are PA-Endangered (SP514 & SA537B). Additional searches in nearby drainages and the continued monitoring of this site are recommended. Also included in this site is an area listed by Geyer and Bolles (1987) as Midway Crevasse. The Crevasse is described as a narrow passage between large blocks of white sandstone and conglomerate rocks (rock city) that have been separated along fractures by frost wedging and gravity creep.
The ravines are protected within Ricketts Glen State Park and the Glens Natural Area. The Glens Natural Area is a Registered National Natural Landmark since October 12, 1969. Here, two branches of Kitchen Creek cut through deep gorges of Gang Glen and Glen Leigh to unite at Waters Meet and then flow 114
through Ricketts Glen (for which the park is named) among very large specimens of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), eastern white pine (Pinus strobus), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), tulip poplar (Lireodendron tulipifera) and oaks (Quercus sp). Many of the trees in this area are over 500 years old and ring counts of fallen trees have revealed ages as high as 900 years. (DCNR 1996).
The Glens Natural Area (Kitchen Creek ravines) and adjacent mature hemlock - pine -northern hardwood forest support good populations of birds typical of old growth forests (Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology Special Areas Project, Haney 1999). Swainson thrush (Catharus ustulatus), which is a species of concern, was once common in the old growth forest of the Ricketts Glen State Park (Cope 1936). There have been occasional reports of Swainsons thrushes in the hemlock groves of the park (Brauning 1992). Habitat for this species also exists in headwater hemlock swamps and groves located throughout the park and the Glens Natural Area.
There is good evidence that old growth hemlock - white pine - hardwood forests support significantly higher densities of breeding birds than younger forests in the same region (Haney and Schaadt 1996).
For this reason, Ricketts Glen State Park was selected as a Pennsylvania Important Bird Area because of its relatively large scale interior forest and its old growth stand support large populations of forest interior birds (Crossley 1999). The old growth forest in these gorges support high densities of canopy-dwelling conifer forest birds such as blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius), Blackburnian warbler (Dendroica fusca), black-throated green warber (Dendroica virens), magnolia warbler (Dendroica magnolia), and purple finch (Carpodacus purpureus). Tree trunk specialists such as hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), red-breasted nuthatch (Sitter canadensis), and brown creeper (Certhia familiaris) also are common in this forest. Acadian flycatcher (Empidonax virescens), winter wren (Troglodytes troglotytes), hermit thrush (Catharus guttatus), Louisiana waterthrush (Seiurus motacilla), and dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis) are common breeders in and around the glens. All of these species have positive old-growth affinity in old-growth hemlock -white pine - hardwood forests of the northern Appalachian plateau (Haney 1999). The large cone crops produced by these massive conifers attract flocks of red crossbill (Loxia curvirostra), a bird species of special concern, and white-winged crossbill (Loxia leucoptera) in the winter (Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology Special Areas Project). Also, the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinas), which is a mammal species of concern in Pennsylvania, is dependent upon mature forest habitat (Mahan et. al. 1999). It should be a high priority for DCNR to preserve this old growth forest with a substantial buffer zone that would protect it from logging, and tree diseases that would substantially harm the health of the remaining mature forest.
An early winter storm toppled many old hemlocks and white ashes (Fraxinus americana) in 1989. This kind of natural disturbance creates more of a mosaic of tree ages in a mature forest and reminds us of the need to preserve mature forests in large acreage. The hemlock wooly aldelgid is a substantial threat to the health of the trees in this gorge. The wooly adelgid is an aphid-like insect that has killed many hemlocks in the Commonwealth. While spraying the large old growth hemlocks may not be feasible, using biological controls (e.g., natural predators, fungi, bacteria, and viruses) may be the best defense against the adelgid. An infestation of the adelgid would have a substantial negative effect on the biodiversity and scenic attributes of the Glens Natural Area, one of the most important natural tourist attractions of Luzerne County.
LAKE JEAN (Fairmont Twp. in Luzerne County & Colley Twp. in Sullivan County) SP505, SP506, SP545, SA543, SA555, & SA558 - This site within Ricketts Glen State Park is a shallow man-made lake that was formerly the site of two smaller lakes, one natural and one man-made. The lake is spring-fed with 115
marginal beds of bur-reed (Sparganium sp.), rushes and sedges (Carex sp., Juncus sp., Dulichium arundinaceum, etc.), blueberry (Vaccinium sp.), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.) along the lake margin.
Relatively little emergent vegetation occurs in the open water. The lake is used for fishing, boating, and swimming.
A fair- to good-quality population of SP505 was last seen in 1996. SP506 is a good-quality population of a PA-Threatened aquatic plant species. SP545 is a small, easily overlooked, aquatic species found in shallow water near one edge of the lake. Although only a small population has been located, the possibility exists for it to occur anywhere the water is shallow and the bottom is sandy.
At least 30 individuals of an invertebrate animal species of concern (SA543) were seen at the lake margin. This species appears to be doing well at this site and appears to tolerate recreational lake activities if the natural vegetation persists at the lake edge. In 2000, two additional invertebrate species of concern (SA555 & SA558) were discovered. Also, a bird species of concern has been seen using the Lake Jean area since 1999. Field surveys are needed to locate the nest for this species.
If the park uses herbicides to control aquatic weeds in the lake, the practice should be closely evaluated and monitored to avoid either direct impacts on the rare plant species (SP505, SP506, & SP545) or indirect impacts on the animals of special concern (SA543, SA555, & SA558). Use of pesticides (including Bt) in and around the lake could also impact the animals of concern. A small portion of this site lies within Sullivan County.
LAKE LEIGH (Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne County & Colley Twp. in Sullivan County) SP542A, SP542B, SP542C, & SP553 - Three plant species of concern (SP542A, SP542B, & SP543C) occupy boggy habitat on the bottom of this drained lake. A dam at its south end is no longer functional, but the site has been impacted by repeated flooding and draining. The species of concern occupy an open sphagnum-dominated area with peaty soils that may represent a remnant of a floating bog mat. The associated plant species include sphagnum (Sphagnum sp.) and white beak-rush (Rhynchospora alba). A small population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP553) was found growing in a young red maple/hemlock swamp just east of Lake Leigh. The dominant vegetation included eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), red maple (Acer rubrum), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), beech (Fagus grandifolia), sedges (Carex trisperma and Carex folliculata), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), goldthread (Coptis trifolium), mountain ash (Pyrus americana), partridge berry (Mitchella repens), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), and Allegheny blackberry (Rubus allegheniensis). The site has a history of disturbance including changes in hydrology and wind- thrown trees from a storm that passed through this area a couple of years ago. No current threats are evident. The site should be monitored in the future. A small portion of this site lies within Sullivan County.
THE MEADOWS/BEECH LAKE sp514A, sp514B, sp514C, sp514D, sa524, sa525, & SA551 - For a description of this site, please see the Sweet Valley quadrangle.
OLD BEAVER DAM SWAMP (Fairmount Township) SA556 - In 2000, an S2 invertebrate species of concern (SA556) was identified in this open sphagnum swamp. Additional surveys are needed to determine the extent and size of the population. Permanent flooding or draining of the swamp would eliminate this species of concern.
116
OPPERMAN PASS (Fairmount Township) SA559 & sa584 - This site is a boreal conifer swamp within Ricketts Glen State Park. Two animal species of concern, one of which is PA-Threatened (SA559), are breeding at the site. Continued site monitoring is needed to determine the extent of the animal populations.
Logging is a potential threat to these two species. A wooded buffer around the site is recommended. In addition, the preservation of snags would benefit sa584.
RICKETTS GLEN SWAMP (Fairmount Township in Luzerne County & Davidson Twp. in Sullivan County) - In 1993, hundreds of plants of a good-quality PA-Rare plant population (SP532) were found in this hemlock-dominated swamp with yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), sedges (Carex sp.), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.). In Pennsylvania, the species usually occurs in cool, shaded swamps that are dominated by conifers, but it may persist in more open sites if they remain cool and moist. Ricketts Glen Swamp was revisited in 1997. The good-quality population of (SP532) was found once again and appears to be healthy. There are no known threats to the plants or the habitat. An S2S3B,S3N animal species (SA561) was also observed during the site visit. This animal requires large tracts of mature forest. Some degree of selective timbering is acceptable and may potentially increase prey abundance for the animal. Additional visits to the site are needed to access the quality of the animal population. This site is protected within Ricketts Glen State Park.
Ricketts Glen State Park and The Glens Natural Area not only attract many visitors to the county each year, but also provide habitat for several plant and animal species of concern.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Shickshinny TNC Ranks* Federal State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Status* Seen Quality**
Special Animals: SA506 G4 S3B,S3N N/A N/A 9/29/94 E SA507 G2 SUB,S1N LE PE 10/19/95 BC SA510 G5 S3 N/A PC 8/11/98 E HQ-CWF: Huntington Creek; Kitchen Creek; Little Shickshinny Creek Managed Areas: State Game Lands #260
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Shickshinny Quadrangle:
DOGTOWN MINES (Salem Twp.) SA506 & SA507 - This site on State Game Lands #260 contains a series of underground mine portals. Two animal species of concern were captured near one of the mine entrances. SA506 is a G4 species, while SA507 is Federally and PA-Endangered. In addition, the glens in the State Game Land have particularly nice hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) forests that provide habitat for Acadian Flycatchers (Empidonax virescens). Threats to the species of concern include mine collapse, logging of the woods near the mines, and coal extraction. Placing gates across the mine openings would also help to protect the site.
HUNTINGTON CREEK (Fairmount Twp.) SA510 - An S3, PA-Candidate animal species of concern (SA510) was identified during a 1998 survey of Huntington Creek. Additional surveys are needed to assess the population quality. Maintaining the hydrology, water quality, and water temperature of the creek are important for the survival of the species. This site continues to the Sweet Valley quadrangle.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Stillwater TNC Ranks State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status Seen Quality None 121
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Sweet Valley TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP512A G5 S3 N 9/01/99 C SP512B G4G5 S3 N 9/01/99 B SP512C G5 S2 PE 9/01/99 C SP512D G5 S2 PE 9/01/99 BC SP513A G4G5 S3 N 8/20/99 CD SP513B G5 S2 PE 8/20/99 C SP513C G5 S2 PE 8/20/99 C SP513D G5 S3 PR 8/20/99 D SP514A G4G5 S3 N 8/20/99 C SP514B G5 S2 PE 8/20/99 CD SP514C G5 S2 PE 9/10/99 D SP514D G5 S3 PR 9/10/99 D SP516 G4G5 S3 N 8/16/00 B SP521 G5 S3 PR 5/29/00 C Special Animals: SA502 G4 S3S4 PC 9/19/00 E S2S3B,S3 SA517A G5 N/A 7/07/00 E N
SA517B G4G5 S2 N/A 7/07/00 E SA518 G4 S3S4 PC 9/19/00 E SA519 G4 S3S4 PC 9/19/00 E SA520 G4 S3S4 PC 6/16/00 E SA522 G5 S1S2B PT 7/13/00 C SA523 G5 S1S2B PT 6/16/00 C Natural Communities: NC503 G5 S3 N/A 5/20/86 B NC521 G5 S3 N/A 5/29/00 C NC534 G? S3 N/A 6/13/00 BC Locally Significant: Bear Swamp; Roaring Brook Swamp 123
HQ-CWF: Bean Run; Beth Run; Butternut Run; Sugar Run; Wolf Run Managed Areas: Ricketts Glen State Park; State Game Lands #57; State Game Lands #206 Other: sp532, sp533, sp534, sa533 (Indefatigable Swamp); sa510 (Huntington Creek); sa551 (The Meadows/Beech Lake)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
The Marbled Salamander is one of the mole salamanders that rely on ephemeral pools for breeding.
Photo: Rick Koval 124
Sweet Valley Quadrangle:
Bear Swamp (Ross Twp.) This Locally Significant Area is a young-to-mid-successional forested swamp consisting of a mixture of conifers and hardwood species. There are occasionally large (15-inch diameter or more) white pine (Pinus strobus) trees but the average tree size is much smaller. The other overstory species include red spruce (Picea rubens), red maple (Acer rubrum), black ash (Fraxinus nigra), hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis). Sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis), cinnamon fern, (Osmunda cinnamomea), manna grass (Glyceria sp.), blue-bead lily (Clintonia borealis), sphagnum (Sphagnum sp.), skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), turtlehead (Chelone glabra), Canada mayflower, (Maianthemum canadense) and various sedges (Carex sp.) are present in the groundcover. Spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata), hermit thrushes (Catharus guttatus), and black-capped chickadees (Parus atricapillus) are among the wildlife observed during a brief visit.
BOULDER RUN SWAMP (Ross & Lake Twps.) SP521, SA522, SA523, & NC521 - This site is an Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural Community (NC521) near the edge of the Allegheny Front. The natural community grades into an upland red spruce forest to the northeast, a palustrine red spruce swamp to the northwest, and a highbush blueberry-sphagnum wetland to the south. A PA-Rare shrub (SP521) is one of the dominant plants found in the low-shrub swamp along with leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata).
Additional dominant plants include black spruce (Picea mariana), red spruce (Picea rubens), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), small cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea), sundew (Drosera sp.),
sedges (Carex trisperma & Carex canescens), and sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.). The shrub swamp has deep peat soils and a small floating mat area adjacent to a pool.
Two breeding occurrences of a PA-Threatened animal species (SA522 & SA523) were documented. Bird species noted here included northern waterthrush (Seiurus noveboracensis), Canada warbler (Wilsonia canadensis), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), Nashville warbler (Vermivora ruficapilla), blackburnian warbler (Dendroica fusca), and black and white warbler (Mniotilta varia). There is no sign of recent habitat disturbance at the site, although the early succcessional stage suggests beaver activity in the past. The preservation of the existing hydrology is important for the plant species found in the swamp. Additional surveys are needed to assess the quality of the animal species. Logging in or near the swamp are possible threats to the site. The site is located on State Game Lands #57.
HUNTINGTON CREEK (Fairmount Twp.) sa510 - For a description of the site, please see the Shickshinny quadrangle.
INDEFATIGABLE SWAMP (Ross Twp. in Luzerne County & Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County)
NC534, sp532, sp533, sp534, and sa533 - For the description of this site, please see the Dutch Mountain quadrangle.
THE MEADOWS/BEECH LAKE (Fairmount & Ross Twps.) SP514A, SP514B, SP514C, SP514D, SA524, SA525, & sa551 - This site located on State Game Lands #57 is made up of a pond and an adjacent wetland known as the Meadows, and a small man-made area named Beech Lake. A young hardwood forest dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum) surrounds Beech Lake. Two plant species of concern (SP514A & B) were identified in the Meadows area and two plant species of concern (SA514C&D) were found in Beech Lake. The plant species in both areas are small- to fair-quality populations that do not appear to have any imminent threats. Maintaining the present hydrology is important.
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Additionally, three animal species of concern (SA524, SA525, & sa551) were discovered. The threats to SA524 & SA525 include mowing of the field in the spring and summer when the larvae are feeding on vegetation. A rotating schedule of mowing that includes mowing one-third of the field every year in late October is optimal for maintaining habitat for the species of concern. A field with mowed and unmowed areas provides a variety of vegetation height and structure. Additionally, at least six inches of stubble must be left as a vegetative buffer for overwintering eggs and larvae. The animal species sa551 would benefit from the preservation of larger trees and snags. Occasional sightings of an additional animal species of concern have been seen at the Meadows and artificial ponds along the west branch of Bean Run (State Game Lands #57).
The sightings suggest that there is a small colony of this wetland bird in the general area, probably in a forested section of the State Game Lands near Beech Lake. Additional field surveys are needed to find the nesting areas of this species. A small portion of this site extends to the Dutch Mountain and Red Rock quadrangles.
MOUNTAIN SPRINGS LAKES (Fairmount & Ross Twps.) SP512A, SP512B, SP512C, SP512D, SP513A, SP513B, SP513C, & SP513D - This site is the drained bed of a man-made lake known as Lake #1 or Splash Dam located in a mountainous area along Bowmans Creek. The land is public and is maintained by the PA Game Commission and The PA Fish & Boat Commission. A functional lake (Lake #2), which is used for public fishing, is found to the west and is included as part of this site. A block of woodland through which Bowman Creek flows separates the two lakes. Four plant species of concern (SP512A, B, C, & D) were identified in Lake #1 and four were identified in Lake #2 (SP513A, B, C, & D). Lake #1 has had two major disturbances: the destruction of the original vegetation caused by the construction of the dam, and the removal of the dam. There does not seem to be any obvious recent disturbances to this area (Lake #1). The dam at Lake # 2 is in poor condition. If the dam is no longer maintained, then the aquatic plants in the lake would be destroyed. It is likely that the land would revert back to a wetland and a different plant community would develop. The species of concern at both Lake #1 and Lake #2 should continue to thrive if the current land use is maintained.
NEVEL SWAMP (Ross Twp.) NC503 - Nevel Swamp is a good example of an Acidic Broadleaf Swamp Natural Community (NC503) on private property. A man-made impoundment exists at the southwest corner of the swamp. The swamp is dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), black ash (Fraxinus nigra), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), and winterberry (Ilex verticillata). The threats include changes in the hydrology of the swamp and logging.
Roaring Brook Swamp (Ross Twp.) This Locally Significant area consists of a disturbed third-growth mixed broadleaf and conifer swamp on the east side of Roaring Brook. Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), black ash (Fraxinus nigra), red maple (Acer rubrum), and white pine (Pinus strobus) occur in the overstory that has numerous gaps and openings. The understory plant species present include silky dogwood (Cornus amomum), arrow-wood (Viburnum dentatum), and winterberry (Ilex verticillata). The groundcover plant species include sedges (Carex bromoides & Carex. sp.), bedstraw (Gallium sp.), skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), horsetail (Equisetum arvense), wood fern (Dryopteris celsa) and goldenrods (Solidago sp.). A bird species of concern was also observed using the habitat, although reproduction at the site was not confirmed. Other bird species heard at the site include Louisiana waterthrush (Seiurus motacilla), ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), veery (Catharus fuscescens), red-eyed vireo (Vireo olivaceus), eastern pewee (Contopus virens), and tufted titmouse (Parus bicolor). Marshy 127
openings and old beaver impoundments along the creek break the canopy of the swamp. The avoidance logging in the wetland and in the buffering uplands will help this Locally Significant area to recover from past disturbances.
STATE GAME LANDS #57 (Ross & Lake Twps.) SA502, SA518, SA519, & SA520 - This area has extensive south-southeast facing rocks and rock outcrops. Four separate occurrences of an animal species of concern have been documented. A deciduous forest dominated by black cherry (Prunus serotina), red maple (Acer rubrum), birch (Betula sp.), and striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum) shade the majority of the areas with suitable habitat. Additional visits are needed to adequately survey this area. The overgrown portions of the site may actually benefit from a very limited selective cut during the winter to remove larger trees shading the site.
WOLF RUN HEADWATERS SWAMP (Ross Twp.) SP516, SA517A, & SA517B - A good population of an S3 plant species (SP516) is located in three wetlands at the headwaters of Wolf Run on State Game Lands
- 57. Each wetland is hydrologically connected. The wetlands are fairly open in the center with a shrub border. The dominant vegetation includes cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), red spruce (Picea rubens),
sedges (Carex stricta, Carex rustrata, and Carex folliculata), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum),
groundberry (Rubus hispidus), mosses, cotton grass (Eriophorum virginicum), huckleberry (Gaylussacia sp.),
soft rush (Juncus effusus), cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus), three-way sedge (Dulichium arundinaceum), and swamp candles (Lysimachia terrestris). No serious disturbances were noted. The wetlands are located close to a trail, but trampling by hikers does not seem to pose a serious threat to this population. Deer browse is another threat, but few plants in the wetland seem to be impacted by this.
The site should continue to be monitored.
Two animal species of concern (SA517A & SA517B) were identified at the site. Additional surveys are needed to assess both of these animal species. Changes in hydrology and logging are potential threats. A small portion of the site extends to the Dutch Mountain quadrangle.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Sybertsville TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP503A G5 S3 PR 7/13/00 CD SP503B G4G5 S2S3 N 7/13/00 BC SP504 G5 S3 PR 6/06/00 BC SP505 G5 S3 PR 7/12/00 BC Special Animal: SA502 G5 S3S4 9/98 E Natural Communities: NC502 G5 S5 7/29/99 C NC503 G? S3 7/13/00 B Geologic Features: GE502 G? S? 1979 E Locally Significant: Wapwallopen Gorge
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
129
Sybertsville Quadrangle:
COUNCIL CUP CLIFFS (Conyngham & Hollenback Twps.) SA502, NC502, & GE502 - The site consists of an extensive cliff erosional remnant (GE502) cut into the Trimmers Rock Formation of mudstone and siltstones overlooking the North Branch of the Susquehanna River (Geyer and Bolles 1987). There are portions of the cliffs that are nearly vertical and mostly unvegetated, while other areas have stunted trees, shrubs, and herbaceous vegetation. The adjacent steep south-facing slope has burned recently and is dominated by a nearly pure stand of Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana). The vegetation on the cliff includes Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana), sweet birch (Betula lenta), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), oak (Quercus sp.), ash (Fraxinus sp.), bush honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera), blueberry (Vaccinium sp.), smooth sumac (Rhus glabra), fire cherry (Prunus pennsylvanica), goldenrod (Solidago sp.), hairgrass (Deschampsia sp.),
sedges (Carex sp.), cowwheat (Melampyrum lineare), panic grass (Panicum sp.), red fescue (Festuca rubra),
and sandwort (Minuartia groenlancium). Peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) formerly nested on Council Cup cliffs as well as many other cliffs along the Susquehanna River previous to the 1960s (Hickey 1969).
An animal species of concern (SA502) also exists at the site. Trampling and the installation of a chain-link fence have disturbed the top of the cliff. No additional disturbances were noted. This site extends to the Berwick quadrangle.
DORRANCE BOG (Dorrance Twp.) NC503, SP503A, SP503B - This site is one of the top sites for preservation in Luzerne County. It is a classic kettlehole bog with a floating mat at its center, and is the best example of an Oligotrophic Glacial Kettlehole Bog Natural Community (NC503) in Luzerne County.
No open water persists in the bog. The center of the bog mat has sparsely vegetated depressions with sundews (Sarracenia sp.), yellow-eyed grass (Xyris sp.), white beak-rush (Rhynchospora sp.), and cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon and V. oxycoccos). It is possible to "break through" the mat in these areas. Moving away from the center of the bog, sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.) and tawny cotton-grass (Eriophorum sp.) are the dominant vegetation, with areas of leatherleaf (Chaemadaphne calyculata), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), and a few black spruce (Picea mariana).
A good- to fair-quality population of a plant species of concern (SP503B) occurs along the edge of the bog. The edge transitions to a dense shrub swamp dominated by highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronatus), and winterberry (Ilex sp.). A fair- to poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP503A) occurs in shaded habitat.
There are no trails into the bog itself and it shows no signs of recent disturbance. A faint deer trail runs along the northern edge of the bog. The shrub swamp was presumably cut over and is recovering slowly.
At high water, the shrub swamp drains across the logging road into an open beaver meadow/shrub swamp to the south. No immediate threats are present. Draining, peat mining, or excessive visitation are the only likely future threats to the natural community. The current landowners have owned the site for many years. They should be commended for their stewardship and assisted with protecting the site for the future.
HOBBIE MEADOW (Hollenback Twp.) SP504 - This private property contains a young forest (20-30 years) that was formerly farmed or used as pasture. A fair- to good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP504) was found at this site along a mowed path. The associated plant species included Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), black oak (Quercus velutina),
green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) seedlings, groundberry (Rubus hispidus), hickory (Carya sp.), flowering 131
dogwood (Cornus florida), red maple (Acer rubrum), and sassafras (Sassafras albidum). The surrounding landuse is agricultural and residential with large lots. A scrub-shrub wetland lies south of the plant population, and a branch of the Wapwallopen Creek is south. Competition with other species like Virginia creeper or poison ivy is a distinct threat to SP504. Also the trees may be shading-out SP504 as the forest stand becomes older. Lastly, deer browse may be affecting the plants. Maintaining the mowed path and periodic mowing of the small clearings will help the rare plant population found at this site. The control of the deer population by allowing hunting on the property would also be helpful.
MYLETS CORNER (Dorrance Twp.) SP505 - A good-quality population of a PA-Rare plant (SP505) was found at this site in 2000. The site, which is located along a along the road, is fairly open with low shrubs and mixed young deciduous trees. The dominant vegetation includes cowwheat (Melampyrum lineare), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), bigtooth aspen (Populus grandidentata) in the shrub layer, white pine (Pinus strobus) in the shrub layer, black oak (Quercus velutina), white oak (Quercus alba), black cherry (Prunus serotina), groundberry (Rubus hispidus), goldenrod (Solidago sp.),
grape (Vitis sp.), grasses (Poaceae), sassafras (Sassafras albidum), white birch (Betula papyrifera), scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris), red maple (Acer rubrum), indian pipe (Monotropa uniflora), meadowsweet (Spirea sp.), and pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule). This area is mostly residential and agricultural. A portion of the site is mowed periodically during road maintenance. The current mowing practices may actually benefit this species by keeping weedy aggressive species from taking over. Threats include the potential for herbicide spraying and the effects of de-icing agents. No management is currently needed.
The site should continue to be monitored.
Wapwallopen Gorge (Hollenback & Nescopeck Twps.) The Lance Corporation who allows public access for recreation owns this Locally Significant property. There are several hiking trails and camping/picnic areas throughout. The gorge is very steeply-sided and forested with hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) at the upper end. River birch (Betula nigra) and sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) dominate the lower end of the gorge. The gorge, which is known locally as the Powderhole, has some historical significance - many remnants of a turn of the century gunpowder plant are found along the edge of the gorge. Excessive trash, graffiti, and the practice of stripping of tree bark for campfires detract from the beauty of the gorge.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Thornhurst TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plant: SP518 G5 S3 PR 7/28/99 CD Natural Community: NC518 G5 S3 N/A 7/28/99 CD HQ-CWF: Lehigh River Other: sp505;sp526 (Lehigh River-Route 115 Bridge)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
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Thornhurst Quadrangle:
CHOKE CREEK SHRUB SWAMP (Tobyhanna Twp.) SP518 & NC518 - This site on private property is a fairly small Acidic Shrub Swamp Natural Community (NC518) with a fair- to poor-quality population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP518). No disturbances were noted at the time of the field visit. Potential threats include development, logging, or changing the hydrology of the site.
LEHIGH RIVER - ROUTE 115 BRIDGE (Tobyhanna Twp., Monroe County, Kidder Twp. in Carbon County, Buck Twp. in Luzerne County) sp505 & sp526 - For a description of this site, please see the Pleasant View Summit quadrangle.
The Yellow-Fringed Orchid is a plant species of concern found in Luzerne County.
Photo: Alan Gregory 135
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Weatherly TNC Ranks Federal State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status Status Seen Quality None 136
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: White Haven TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP517 G3 S2 PE 8/29/96 BC SP519 G5 S3 PR 5/26/00 CD Special Animal: SA519 G5 S1S2 N/A 9/2000 BC HQ-CWF: Oley Creek Managed Areas: Nescopeck State Park; State Game Lands #187 Other: sp502A, sp502B, sp519, sp522, sa505A, sa506B, sa506C, sa506D, sa506E, sa506F, sa506G, sa506H, sa506I, sa506J, sa506K, sa506lL sa506M, sa507A, sa507B, sa507C, sa507D, sa519, & nc505 (Arbutus Peak); sp505, sp506, sp515, sp516, sp520, sp521, sp522, sa518, sa519A, sa519B, sa523, &
sa541 (Nescopeck Creek Valley)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks.
138
White Haven Quadrangle ARBUTUS PEAK (Bear Creek, Dennison, Fairview, Hanover, Wilkes-Barre, & Wright Twps.) For the description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre East quadrangle.
NESCOPECK CREEK VALLEY (Butler & Dennison Twps.) sp505, sp506, sp515, sp516, sp520, sp521, sp522, sa518, sa519a, sa519b, & sa523 - For the description of this site, please see the Freeland quadrangle.
WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED A (Dennison Twp.) SA517 - This area along Wright Creek was last visited in 1996. The habitat primarily consists of a hardwood forest with scattered hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) and pines (Pinus sp.). A globally rare, PA-Endangered plant species (SA517) occurs in a dry-mesic to moist woods on the site. The associated plant species include white oak (Quercus alba), red maple (Acer rubrum), various heaths (e.g., Vaccinium sp. & Gaylussacia sp.), witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana),
fly poison (Amianthium muscaetoxicum), grass (Brachyelytrum erectum), and hay-scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula). Garbage dumping, foot traffic, and utility line and railroad construction are the past and present disturbances. Threats to the species of concern include logging, development, and the establishment of exotic plant species.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Wilkes-Barre East TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP502A G5 S1 TU 5/08/95 E SP502B G5 S1 PE 6/18/97 BC SP521 G5 S2 PE 7/02/96 CD SP522 G5 S3 PR 7/08/97 CD SP523 G4G5 S3 N 8/17/00 D SP524 G5 S3 PR 8/31/00 CD Special Animals: SA506A G4 S2S3 N/A 5/27/98 C SA506B G3G4 S1 N/A 10/08/97 AC SA506C G5 SU N/A 7/29/98 BC SA506D G5 S2S3 N/A 10/08/97 AB SA506E G5T2T3 S1S2 N/A 5/27/98 BC SA506F G4 S1 N/A 6/24/98 AB SA506G G3 S1 N/A 6/24/98 C SA506H G4 SU N/A 7/29/98 E SA506I G2G3 S2 N/A 9/15/98 AB SA506J G3 S1 N/A 10/08/97 BC SA506K G4 S1S3 N/A 5/27/98 BC SA506L G4 S1S3 N/A 6/24/98 BC SA506M G5 S1 N/A 9/15/98 BC SA507A G5 S2S3 N/A 10/08/97 AB SA507B G5 S2 N/A 10/08/97 C SA507C G2G3 S2 N/A 10/08/97 AB SA507D G3 S1 N/A 10/08/97 BC Natural Community: NC505 G4 S3 N/A 1984 B Geologic Feature: GE525 G? S? N/A 1979 E 141
USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Wilkes-Barre East (Continued)
Locally Significant: Prospect Rock Managed Area: State Game Lands #91; State Game Land #119; State Game Land #292 Other: sp505, sp506, sp515, sp516, sp520, sp521, sp522, sa518, sa519a, sa519b, sa523, & sa541 (Nescopeck Creek Valley)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks The Variable Sedge is a globally rare sedge species found in several locations in the Nescopeck Creek valley.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 142
Wilkes-Barre East Quadrangle:
ARBUTUS PEAK (Bear Creek, Dennison, Fairview, Hanover, & Wright Twps.& Laurel Run Boro.) SP502A, SP502B, sp519, SP522, SA505A, SA506B, SA506C, SA506D, SA506E, SA506F, SA506G, SA506H, SA506I, SA506J, SA506K, SA506L, SA506M, SA507A, SA507B, SA507C, SA507D, sa519, & NC505 - Arbutus Peak oak barrens (NC505) is a relatively large oak barrens complex of 5,000 to 6,000 acres southeast of Wilkes-Barre. It is located on the ridgetops in the townships of Bear Creek, Dennison, Hanover, Fairview and Wright, and Laurel Run Borough. The site is separated into two sub areasone northwest of Crystal Lake reservoir that includes Penobscot Mountain Barrens, and one southwest of the lake that includes Arbutus Peak and Tunnel Road Barrens.
The barrens are comprised of a complex of plant communities including Scrub Oak Shrubland, Low Heath Shrubland and Little Bluestem-Pennsylvania Sedge Opening (Fike 1999). The barrens are dominated by scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) with a variety of blueberries, huckleberries, and sheep laurel (ericaeous shrubs) as subdominants; pitch pine (Pinus rigida) is found in scattered locations.
Small rocky balds are dominated by bare sandstone and conglomerate rock with lichens, mosses, and scattered shrubs and grasses. Mixed oak and other hardwood trees dominate the ravines between the barrens. There are also several swamp areas, such as Jimmy Kane Swamp, that are dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum), some red spruce (Picea rubens), hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), and yellow birch (Betula allegheniensis), and a variety of shrubs and sedges (Carex sp.).
The open woodlands and shrub barrens require periodic disturbance. The primary driving forces creating and maintaining the barrens are fire, poor, dry, shallow soils and, in places, frost and wind.
Fires have been both natural and man- made. Fires have killed off trees and allowed the scrub oaks and other species to thrive. Scrub oak and the ericaeous shrubs may actually promote fire due to their highly flammable leaves and debris (Latham et al 1996). The scrub oak and many of the blueberries sprout from the roots after a fire. Grasses and sedges respond well to the nutrients that are released and to the exposure to sun. Pitch pine, where it occurs, readily re-sprouts after a fire (unusual for a conifer). Unusual for these large barrens systems is the amount of wetland adjacent to the dry barrens.
In Pennsylvania, only Long Pond Barrens in Monroe County appear to have more wetland associated with the barrens.
Fifteen rare invertebrate animal species have been found at areas (three species were found at two location at the site) associated with the barrens and adjacent wetlands and more are expected to be found. Five of the species are Globally Rare (G3) or the subspecies is Globally Rare (G5T2T3).
Several are new to the present-day fauna of PA - one species is known to utilize arctic/boreal habitats making Arbutus Peak an extreme southern location for it. Another is considered to be a southern species usually found on the New Jersey Pine Barrens. These species are typically dependent upon particular plant species for a portion of their lives; some use scrub oak to feed upon; while other use blueberries found in wetlands or in the barrens. Some species use the pitch pine while others appear to use cranberries and other plants found in the wetlands. One species that has not been found anywhere else but Pennsylvania, feeds exclusively on the flypoison plant (Amianthium muscaetoxicum). Another feeds on wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria). Some of the species have very little life-history information and require more research. Most of them depend on plants that require plenty of sunlight found in shrubland or open woodland.
Four plant species of special concern are also found within the barrens. One (SP522) is found on State Game Lands #119 and one (SP519) is found in the Tunnel Road Barren in State Game Lands #119 on 144
the White Haven map. Two are found on Penobscot Mountain near the radio towers. All four are found where there are rock outcrops, little soil development and some disturbance either natural or caused by humans. These ridgetop areas probably have changed little over time and should remain as rock outcrops. The Tunnel Road site may need periodic disturbance since it is close to the old railroad bed and within a pitch pine-scrub oak woodland. There are only minimal threats to these species posed by trail and mountain bikes and development such as for radio and cell towers. Some of the disturbance seems to actually benefit the species.
Arbutus Peak is one of the top sites in the county and may be one of the richest barrens for butterfly and moth animal groups in the Northeast. Based on comments received in our office from zoologists in New York and New Jersey, this barrens complex should be a high priority for conservation in Pennsylvania.
NESCOPECK CREEK VALLEY (Butler and Dennison Twps) sp505, sp506, sp515, sp516, sp520, sp521, sp522, sa518, sa519a, sa519b, sa523, & sa541 - For the description of this site, please see the Freeland quadrangle.
Prospect Rock (Laurel Run Boro.). This Locally Significant site is a large rock ledge about 2,000 feet in length that provides a grand view of the Wyoming Valley (Geyer and Bolles, 1987). The rock is made of white pebble conglomerate with the pebbles being so numerous that they touch each other (Geyer and Bolles, 1987).
THE TUBS (Plains Twp.) GE525 - The Tubs is a Whirlpool Canyon with a series of falls over sandstone and conglomerate rock of the Pocono Formation. The canyon may have formed around 10,000 years ago when a meltwater stream flowing through a glacier plunged over the edge of the ice or ice cliff within the glacier (Geyer and Bolles, 1987). Wheelbarrow Run, which flows through the Tubs, is reported to have a naturally reproducing Brook Trout population. Today, this area is a county park that is used for passive recreation. Littering by visitors is a disturbance. The development of the surrounding land is a potential threat the quality of this site.
WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED B (Bear Creek Twp.) SP521 - This site on State Game Lands #119 includes an upland area drained by Wright Creek. A fair- to small-quality population of a PA-Endangered plant species (SP521) was found in a low heath area in 1996. No obvious threats to the plants were noted during the field visit. Additional surveys are needed to adequately assess the size of the population.
WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED C (Bear Creek Twp.) SP523 - A small population of a plant species of concern was found along the edge of the woods near a trail at Wright Creek in State Game Lands #119. The vegetation included groundberry (Rubus hipidus), mosses, sedges (Carex folliculata and Carex sp.), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), bunchberry (Cornus canadensis),
large cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), grass (Poaceae), bugleweed (Lycopus uniflorus), and grass (Brachyelytrum erectum). The current nearby disturbances include ATV and foot traffic. The potential threats include trampling and deer browse.
WYOMING MOUNTAIN BARRENS (Bear Creek Twp.) SP524, nc501, & NC504 - This site is part of a mosaic of a Ridgetop Dwarf Tree Forest Natural Community (nc501 & NC504) stretching along the ridgetop from Bald Mountain southwest to Penobscot Mountain. Very little pitch pine (Pinus rigida) is present. The site includes occasional conglomerate outcrops and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) -
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dominated areas mixed with oak/blackgum forests and shrub-oak/gray birch barrens. A large area just to the southwest of the site burned in 1999.
A PA-Rare plant species (SP524) was identified at the site. The associated plant species include wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia), red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia), gray birch (Betula populifolia), sweet fern (Comptonia peregrina), black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), sedge (Carex sp.), cowwheat (Melampyrum lineare), poverty grass (Danthonia spicata), hairgrass (Deschampsia sp.), and grass (Panicum sp.). Fire is beneficial to this plant species and natural community. Development and fire suppression and the use of herbicides are potential threats. Part of this site is within State Game Lands #91. A portion of the site extends to the Pleasant View Summit quadrangle.
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USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Wilkes-Barre West TNC Ranks* State Last Element Type CODE Global State Status* Seen Quality**
Special Plants: SP502 G5? S2 PT 7/07/88 E SP507A G5 S1 TU 6/27/96 BC SP507B G5 S1 PE 6/24/99 B SP507C G5 S3 PR 6/27/96 B SP509 G5 S2 PE 8/09/90 D SP511A G5 S3 TU 8/19/99 C SP511B G5 S3 PR 7/07/88 E SP512 G4 S2 PR 8/19/99 B SP522 G5 S3 PR 8/09/90 D SP523 G5 S3 PR 5/25/00 D SP530A G5 S3 PR 6/18/97 D SP530B G5 S2 PE 6/18/97 D Special Animals: SA531 G4 S3B,S3N N/A 2/03/00 E SA532 G5T4T5 SU N/A 6/07/00 E SA535A G5 S2S3B N/A 2000 E SA535B G5 S3B N/A 2000 E SA535C G5 S3B N/A 2000 E SA536 G4G5 S2 N/A 7/2000 E SA537 G5 S3B N/A 6/08/99 E SA538 G5 S3B N/A 5/22/00 E Natural Communities: NC501 G? S2 N/A 8/22/91 AB NC524 G? S2 N/A 5/16/91 BC USGS QUADRANGLE MAP: Wilkes-Barre West (Continued) 147
Locally Significant: Nuangola Station Swamp Managed Areas: State Game Lands #207 Other: sp502A, sp502B, sp519, sp522, sa505A, sa506B, sa506C, sa506D, sa506E, sa506F, sa506G, sa506H, sa506I, sa506J, sa506K, sa506lL sa506M, sa507A, sa507B, sa507C, sa507D, sa519, & nc505 (Arbutus Peak)
- Please refer to Appendix I for an explanation of Ranks and State Status.
- Please refer to Appendix II for Quality ranks During surveys for the Natural Areas Inventory new populations of the Bog Copper, a globally rare species, were discovered.
Photo: Alan Gregory 148
Wilkes-Barre West Quadrangle:
ANDY POND (Dorrance & Rice Twps.) SA537 - This site on private property has an estimated 35 acres of mixed shrub swamp and additional wetland habitats. An animal species of concern (SA537) was observed in the shrub wetland, but this animal will mainly use sedge and cattail areas. River otters (Lutra canadensis) were also observed at the site, but evidence of breeding and regular site-use is needed. The potential threats include development and changes in the hydrology of the marsh.
ARBUTUS PEAK (Bear Creek, Dennison, Fairview, Hanover, & Wright Twps.& Laurel Run Boro.)
sp502A, sp502B, sp519, sp522, sa506A, sa506B, sa506C, sa506D, sa506E, sa506F, sa506G, sa506H, sa506I, sa506J, sa506K, sa506L, SA506M, sa507A, sa507B, sa507C, sa507D, sa519, & nc505 - For the description of this site, please see the Wilkes-Barre East quadrangle.
HANOVER CROSSING WETLAND (Hanover Twp.) SA538 - The wetland at Hanover Crossing is approximately 15 acres, and is dominated by broad-leaved cattail (Typha latifolia) with some rushes (Juncus sp.). An animal species of concern (SA538) was observed in the wetland during the breeding season. The surrounding area is highly disturbed by past coal mining; slag piles and gray-birch scrub forests are common. Additional habitat and threat information is needed for this site.
HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN (Rice, Fairview, and Hanover Twps.) SP507A, SP507B, SP507C, SP530A, SP530B, & NC501 - This site is a good- to excellent-quality high elevation (1,600-1,870 feet)
Northern Appalachian Acidic Rock Summit Natural Community (NC501) characterized by open, rocky areas with sparse vegetation. A xeric oak forest (Quercus montana) and thickets of scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) surround these scattered open areas. Powerlines and jeep trails cut through the site located mostly on State Game Lands #207. Since 1996, five plant species of concern were identified at the site.
The wildfires that periodically burn the area are actually good for the plant species that grow in this natural community. Fire suppression and trash dumping are potential threats to the plants.
KIRBY PARK (Kingston Boro.) SA532 - This site is a municipal park that includes a large silver maple (50 + feet high) floodplain forest (65 acres) natural area along the North Branch of the Susquehanna River.
A population of a PA animal species of concern (SA532) exists at this site and on nearby river islands (Richard & Monocanock Islands). The floodplain forest associated plant species include large silver maples (Acer saccharinum), elm (Ulmus americana.), red oak (Quercus rubra), white mulberry (Morus alba), American basswood (Tilia americana), river birch (Betula nigra), catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides),
black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow (Salix sp.), jewelweed (Impatiens sp.), Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea),
trout lily (Erythronium sp.), spring beauty (Claytonia virginica), Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica),
garlic mustard (Allaria officinalis), and nettles (Urticaceae). The red oak, which is not a floodplain species, was planted in the 1920s when the Olmsted Brothers firm designed the park (Wilkes-Barre Riverfront Parks Committee 2001).
As a riparian forest, the Kirby Park natural area is very important for migratory and resident bird species.
The Greater Wyoming Valley Audubon Society has generated a list of birds that have been sighted in the natural area.
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For approximately 10 years at Kirby Park a non-profit group, the Wilkes-Barre Riverfront Parks Committee, has worked to manage the natural area. Their mission has been to keep the floodplain area natural while providing recreational trails and educational programming. Another goal is the control of exotic plant species such as Japanese knotweed in the floodplain forest. Additionally, the committee has developed a Riparian Trail Guide: Kirby Park Natural Area (2001). This guide contains trail maps, bird lists, and plants lists. Copies of the guide can be obtained from the Wilkes-Barre Riverfront Parks Committee.
The surrounding land use (Kirby Park) includes a navigable water to the south, with recreational facilities, residences, and businesses located to the west, east, and north. Both the floodplain and the river islands are seasonally flooded. One current threat to species of concern and the animal/plant populations is a proposed inflatable dam that could cause inundation of this floodplain or the river islands. Changes in the hydrology could kill the large trees used by the animal species of concern at the site. The present hydrology (seasonal flooding) should be maintained. The same animal species of concern occurs at various floodplain forest sites along the North Branch of the Susquehanna throughout much of the county. These additional sites along the Susquehanna are not mapped, as more descriptive information on the status of these populations is needed. A second potential threat is the proposal to convert the natural area into ball fields.
In order for the species and natural floodplain community to continue to exist at Kirby Park, the large trees and the present hydrology of the site should be maintained. The Wilkes-Barre Riverfront Parks Committee should be contacted at (570) 826-1108 for additional management recommendations.
NANTICOKE MARSH (City of Nanticoke & Hanover Twp.) SA535A, SA535B, & SA535C - This site is one of the largest cattail (Typha latifolia) marshes in Luzerne County. It is located on the North Branch of the Susquehanna River floodplain adjacent to City of Nanticoke. The habitat includes an extensive cattail marsh with some sedge (Carex sp.) tussocks and willow (Salix sp.) trees in the eastern portion. Three animal species of concern have been found using this habitat in recent years (SA535A, SA535B, & SA535C). The current habitat is the result of past disturbances that have created favorable conditions for the species of concern. The site is surrounded by agriculture. Previous disturbances have likely created the cattail marsh habitat appropriate for this species. Draining of the marsh or pesticide use are potential threats. The Earth Conservancy owns portions of this site. Additional surveys are recommended to monitor the extent and success of the rare species populations at the site.
NUANGOLA RAILROAD TUNNEL (Rice Twp.) SA531 - A small population of an animal species of concern has been documented in this tunnel on State Game Lands #207. Additional habitat information is needed. The animal species is periodically monitored by the PA Game Commission.
NUANGOLA LAKE (Nuangola Boro.) SP502, SP511A, SA511B, SP512, & SA536 - This is a large glacial lake, likely once an extensive bog lake before the outlet at its south end was dammed. Five different plants and one animal species of concern are found here, both in the lake itself and in the remnant bog mats around its edges. All of the plant species appear to be doing well. The aquatic species are dependent on maintaining the water quality of the lake. Because the lake shore has numerous cottages and homes and additional development has been proposed, eutrophy is a threat.
Nuangola Station Swamp (Rice Twp.) - This Locally Significant area is a mixed broadleaf-conifer swamp bisected by a small meandering stream. The swamp has numerous small pools and seeps and a well-developed micro-topography of pits and tip-up mounds. There are no recent signs of logging. Black 151
ash (Fraxinus nigra) is notable for its abundance here. Other plant species at the site include hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), white pine, (Pinus strobus) yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), red maple (Acer rubrum), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum sp.), sedges (Carex trisperma, Carex sp.), partridgeberry (Mitchella repens), turtlehead (Chelone glabra), sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis), manna-grass (Glyceria sp.), crowfoot (Ranunculus sp.), and gold thread (Coptis groenlandica). There are ATV trails along the margin of the swamp and through its north end. No current threats are evident and allowing the forest to mature will improve the quality of the plant community.
PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN RIDGETOP (Hanover, Newport, Rice, & Slocum Twps.) SP509, SP522,
& nc526 - The area consists of an Ephemeral/Fluctuating Pool Natural Community in a matrix of dry oak-heath forest. The rock strata here are tilted sharply upward, creating several parallel outcrops (some of conglomerate) running along the ridgetop, with the pools occurring in the "grooves" between the more resistant outcrops. The matrix forest canopy is open, with areas of lichen-covered rocks and graminoids (Carex sp. and Deschampsia sp.). The common overstory species include sweet birch (Betula lenta), red oak (Quercus rubra), chestnut oak (Quercus prinus), and red maple (Acer rubrum). Striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum), serviceberry (Amelanchier sp.), and American chestnut (Castanea dentata) are all present in the understory. The shrub layer has the aforementioned species as well as upland low blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum), early low blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium), black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), and maple-leaved viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium). The groundcover is sparse and includes may-apple (Podophyllum peltatum), hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa), cowwheat (Melampyrum lineare), common Solomons seal (Polygonatum biflorum), several sedge species (Carex sp.), marginal shield fern (Dryopteris marginalis),
lichens, and mosses. The outcrops and openings provide habitat for two plant species of concern (SP502
& SP522) along the same ridgetop further east.
The individual pools themselves vary in depth and dominant vegetation. Four pools were visited; two were largely forested, and two consist of a mixture of tall shrub and herbaceous habitat. Additional pools are present that were not visited during this survey. Some of the pools exist as narrow, steep-sided depressions at the base of the rock outcrops. All of the pools had standing water up to 24 inches deep at the time of visit, and a substrate of sphagnum and/or dead oak leaves.
These pools have good potential for use by a variety of herptiles. Additional landowner information, early spring surveys, and mapping the extent of the natural community are needed.
WILKES-BARRE MOUNTAIN (Hanover Twp.) SP523 & NC524 - This site on Wilkes-Barre Mountain is a marginal to good example of a North Appalachian Acidic Rocky Summit Community (NC524). The natural community is an approximately 45-acre area of bare conglomerate rock with low shrubs, grasses, and scattered dwarfed trees. The surrounding land is forested and it has been logged in the past. The dominant species are black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), upland low blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum), and crinkled hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa). A small population of a PA-Rare plant species (SP523) was located here in 2000. The plant is growing in a powerline right-of-way and is in danger of being sprayed with herbicides during maintenance activities. Therefore the right-of-way should be maintained by mechanical means if possible. Natural wildfires would be beneficial to the plants and the natural community at the site.
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RECOMMENDATIONS AND
SUMMARY
Luzerne county has a number of groups pursuing the protection of natural areas within the county. The following are general recommendations for protecting biological diversity within the counties.
- 1. All sites that are ranked 1 or 2 (Table 1) should be targeted immediately for protection and/or management of the site and the surrounding lands. Privately-owned lands at these sites may be protected through a combination of conservation easements and acquisition to encourage current land use or make improvements in land use where needed.
- 2. Management plans on public and private lands should address species of special concern and natural communities and assess the need for additional acres to complete protection. Each element located within a given site will need to be addressed in new management plans for that area.
Many of the already-protected sites are in need of additional land to complete protection and/or are in need of management to ensure the continued existence of the associated natural elements. Efforts are already underway to refine management plans for some of the high quality natural areas on public lands in the counties.
- 3. Conservation easements or other low cost protection can be pursued on lower-ranked sites. All sites of lower rank but with good to excellent populations of species of special concern or good natural communities on private land should receive protection too, but conservation easement or some type of tax incentive may be more appropriate. Conservation easements are designed to allow landowners the current use of their land while protecting the owner and the resource from outside development pressure. Management plans will be needed to ensure that these sites remain high-quality natural areas. Where easements are not possible, any proposals for significant land use changes should be scrutinized carefully by county and municipal planners.
- 4. Low quality sites (e.g., with marginal or poor populations of listed species in marginal areas) should be carefully assessed before pursuing protection or management efforts. The rare elements may be important for the maintenance of biological diversity at the local level, but costs and efforts for protecting these sites need to weighed against other sites that will be left unprotected which truly have the potential for long-term viability of elements. However, these sites may have other qualities, such as scenic or recreation value, that make them worth protecting.
- 5. Locally Significant sites (Table 2) may be protected as higher priority sites are completed or as new information emerges. These are sites in the counties that do not have exemplary natural communities or known occurrences of rare species, but that could be excellent sites for counties or township parks or as natural areas within existing parks (sites within existing managed areas will need to be included in management plans). Those that can serve more than one purpose__recreation, environmental education, wildlife habitat, flood and sediment control, water supply, etc.__are ideal.
Species of special concern that may be found in some of these areas in future surveys can fit into counties park or preserve plans.
- 6. Protection of the reservoirs, wetlands, rivers, and creeks of Luzerne county is vital, especially those that protect biodiversity, supply drinking water, and are attractive recreational resources. Many of the sites containing rare species, natural communities or locally significant 153
habitats in Luzerne county are associated with water. Protection of these watersheds is the only way to ensure the viability of natural habitats and water quality. Cooperative efforts on land use among municipal, county, state, and federal agencies, developers, and residents can lessen the impact of development on the watersheds and plant communities of the three counties. Protecting natural areas around municipal water supply watersheds provides an additional protective buffer around the water supply, habitat for wildlife, and may also provide low-impact recreation opportunities.
- 7. Minimize encroachment on the parks and conservation lands throughout Luzerne county.
Existing parks and conservation lands provide habitat for a number of plant and animal species and may be important not only on a county-wide level, but also on a regional scale. For example, they may serve as nesting or wintering areas for birds or as stop-over areas during migration. Where appropriate, more land should be added or agreements worked out with abutting landowners to minimize encroachments that may threaten native flora and fauna.
- 8. Counties and township officials can encourage landowners whose land includes waterways to maintain vegetated buffer zones along shorelines. Vegetated buffers (preferably of PA-native plant species) help reduce erosion and sedimentation and help to shade and cool the water. This in turn benefits aquatic animal life, including the fisheries. These buffers also provide habitat for other wildlife species and help to create a diversity of habitats along the creek or stream.
- 9. Scrutinize development proposals for their impact on entire watersheds not just the immediate impact area. Certainly, new housing and commercial development can be given close scrutiny before it is allowed in the areas outlined in this report and careful review can be required within any watershed in the county. Townships can also require minimum setbacks from all water bodies to help protect water quality. Landowners within any particular watershed can act on their own to protect water by forming watershed associations to voluntarily monitor and screen proposals in their localities.
- 10. Development plans should provide for creating natural buffers between the development and the core preserve area, be it a barrens community, wetland, water body, or forest. Care should be taken to ensure that protected natural areas do not become "islands" surrounded by development.
When a wetland or woodland is completely surrounded by development, even if there are no direct impacts, the site is effectively isolated and its value for wildlife is reduced. If possible, networks or corridors of woodlands or greenspace should be preserved linking sensitive natural areas to each other. Cluster development could be used to allow the same amount of development on much less land in such areas, but most importantly, leave much of the land intact as corridors for wildlife and native plants.
- 11. Grassroots organizations are needed. County and municipal governments can do much of the work necessary to plan for the protection and management of the natural areas identified in this report. However, grassroots organizations are needed to assist with identifying landowners who wish to protect their land, providing information about easements to landowners, land acquisition, and management and stewardship of protected sites. Increasingly, local watershed organizations and land trusts are taking proactive steps to accomplish conservation at the local level. The North Branch Land Trust is one organization already working to protect lands in Luzerne county. This report is intended as a tool to help these organizations as well as other local watershed associations and land trusts in their efforts.
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On the quad maps in this report, we have outlined the watersheds or subwatersheds where the natural communities and species of special concern occur. These areas should be viewed as zones of potential impact; protection of the entire area may not be necessary. Smaller buffer areas have been designated for locally significant sites. The core areas where the communities and species occur need to be given the most attention and fee title acquisition may be appropriate. Land uses that do not impact these important sites should be encouraged for the buffer zones.
We wish to emphasize that this Natural Areas Inventory is only a beginning. New sites with good natural communities and species of special concern wait to be discovered. Plant communities and plant and animal populations are dynamic, constantly changing with time and conditions. As this information is received and updated in the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory data base, so too will the Natural Areas Inventories. If there are any questions about the impact of the proposed development or other activity, we suggest that our office, the Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy, be consulted at (717) 948-3962. Questions regarding protection methods and tools for planning should be directed to the Luzerne County Planning Commission at (570) 825-1560 or the Luzerne County Office of Community Development at (570) 824-7214.
The PA-Rare Lupine.
Photo: PA Science Office of The Nature Conservancy 155
GLOSSARY Acidophilic - a plant that requires or prefers acidic soil conditions.
Alluvium - material such as sand, silt, or clay that is deposited on land by streams.
Anthropogenic - human caused.
ATV - all-terrain-vehicle.
Bald - A rocky or stony area with little or no vegetation.
Barrens - areas that are naturally infertile as a consequence of nutrient-poor soils; often form on resistant rock such as quartz, sandstone or highly weathered and leached glacial material. Fire is a natural process in the ridgetop barrens of Luzerne County.
Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) - an insecticide, which is produced by the fermentation of a bacterium (Bt), used to control many caterpillar-type pests (e.g., gypsy moth).
Bog - a nutrient poor, acidic peatland that receives water primarily from direct rainfall with little or no input from groundwater or runoff; vegetation consists primarily of peatmoss and ericaceous shrubs.
Canopy - the layer formed by the tallest vegetation.
Circumneutral - pH between 5.5 and 7.
Co-dominant - where several species together comprise the dominant layer (see "dominant" below).
Community - an assemblage of plant or animal populations sharing a common environment and interacting with each other and the physical environment.
DBH - The diameter of a tree at breast height.
DCNR - Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
DEP - Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
Diabase - a dark gray igneous rock. The chemical composition of diabase may support unusual plant communities.
Dominant - the species (usually plant) exerting the greatest influence on a given community either by numerical dominance or influence on microclimate, soils and other species.
Element - all-inclusive term for species of special concern and exemplary natural communities.
156
Ericaceous - members of the heath family including blueberries, huckleberries, rhododendrons, and azaleas; these plants are adapted to living in acidic soils.
Exceptional Value Waters (EV) - DEP designation for a stream or watershed which constitutes an outstanding national, state, regional or local resource, such as waters of national, state or county parks or forests; or waters which are used as a source of unfiltered potable water supply, or waters of wildlife refuges or State Game Lands, and other waters of substantial recreational or ecological significance. For more detailed information about EV stream designations, the reader is referred to the Special Protection Waters Implementation Handbook (Shertzer 1992).
Exotic - non-native; used to describe plant or animal species that were introduced by humans; examples include Japanese honeysuckle, purple loosestrife and grass carp; exotics present a problem because they may out-compete native species.
Extant - currently in existence.
Floodplain - low-lying land generally along streams or rivers that receives periodic flooding.
Forb - non-grass herbaceous plant such as goldenrod.
Fragipan - A very dense soil layer that prevents water from draining quickly through the soil.
Graminoid - grass or grass-like plant such as a sedge or a rush.
Ground cover - low shrubs, herbs and mosses that are found at or close to the ground surface.
Hemic - an organic soil in which the plant remains show a good degree of decomposition (between 1/3 and 2/3 of the fibers are still visible after rubbing the material between the fingers).
Hibernacula - A location where animals hibernate.
Hibernation - The period of winter inactivity during which time normal physiological processes are reduced and a significant decrease in body temperature occurs. In Pennsylvania, true hibernation is shown by woodchucks, jumping mice, and bats.
High-Quality Coldwater Fisheries (HQ-CWF) - DEP designation (PA Code, Chapter 93) for a stream or watershed that has excellent quality waters and environmental or other features that require special water quality protection.
Hydrology - water system of an area including both surface water and ground water.
Kame - a short ridge or mound of sand and gravel deposited during the melting of glacial ice.
Kettle - a depression left in a mass of glacial drift, apparently formed by the melting of an isolated block of glacial ice.
Lepidoptera - moths and butterflies.
157
Listed species - species that is monitored and considered to be of concern by PNDI.
Littoral - the area where water meets land, the shoreline.
Mesic - moist, not saturated.
Minerotrophic - groundwater fed; influenced by water that has been in contact with bedrock or soil, and is richer in mineral content than rainwater.
Native - describes species that occurred in Pennsylvania or in the area in which they are found prior to European settlement; not introduced by human activities.
Natural area - As used in this study, a site with either an exemplary natural community or species of special concern; not to be confused with the State Forest Natural Areas which are specific management units designated by DCNR Bureau of Forestry.
Non-point - refers to diffuse sources of pollution such as storm water runoff contaminated with oil or pesticides.
Oligotrophic - poor to extremely poor in nutrients; typically describes dilute waters with low base metal ion concentrations.
Peat - partially decomposed remains of plant material in which at least some of the plant parts are still distinguishable.
POSCIP - Plant of Special Concern in Pennsylvania.
Potential Natural Area - used by The Nature Conservancy to denote an area that may have desirable environmental characteristics to support rare species or exemplary natural communities, but which needs a field survey to confirm; a preliminary category given to sites prior to field survey (see METHODS section).
Prescribed burning - burning under controlled conditions; needed to maintain communities such as limestone glades and pitch pine barrens.
Riparian - streamside.
R-O-W - Strip of land occupied or intended to be occupied by a street, crosswalk, railroad, electric transmission line, oil or gas pipeline, water main, sanitary or storm sewer line, or other special use.
Sapric - Organic soils (muck) in which most of the plant material is decomposed and the original constituents cannot be recognized.
Seeps - where water flows from the ground in a diffuse pattern and saturates the soil; lush herbaceous vegetation often grows in these wet areas.
158
Soil association - a group of soils that are geographically associated in a characteristic repeating pattern and defined and delineated as a single unit.
Soil series - groups of soils that have vertical profiles that are almost the same, that is, with horizons (layers) that are similar in composition, thickness, and arrangement.
Succession - natural process of vegetation change through time; over time, the plant species of a site will change in composition and structure as light and soil conditions change (e.g., a field that is left alone may, over time, be taken over by shrubs, then small trees and eventually a woodland).
Talus - slope formed of loose rock and gravel that accumulates at the base of mountains or cliffs.
Understory - layer of shrubs and small trees between the herbaceous layer and the canopy.
Vernal - occurring in the spring.
Xeric - extremely dry or droughty.
159
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266 pp.
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164
SITE INDEX Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
ABRAHAMS CREEK WETLANDS Kingston Twp. Kingston 89 ANDY POND Dorrance & Rice Twps. Wilkes-Barre West; 73, 154 Freeland ARBUTUS PEAK Bear Creek, Dennison, Freeland; 73, 144, Fairview, Hanover, & White Haven; 148, 154 Wright Twps. & Laurel Run Wilkes-Barre Boro. East; Wilkes-Barre West BALD MOUNTAIN ROAD SWAMP Bear Creek Twp. Avoca 54 BEAR CREEK AT SHADES CREEK Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 108 Summit BEAR HOLLOW Lake Twp. Harveys 78 Lake BEHLER SWAMP Bear Creek & Buck Twps. Pleasant View 108 in Luzerne County & Summit Lehigh Twp. in Lackawanna County BENTON STATION FIELDS Fairmount Twp. Red Rock 118 BLACK CREEK FLATS Hazle Twp. Hazleton 65, 82 BOULDER RUN SWAMP Ross & Lake Twps. Sweet Valley 69, 130 BRIGGSVILLE VERNAL POOLS Nescopeck Twp. Berwick 58 CAMPBELLS LEDGE Pittston Twp. Pittston; 104, 115 Ransom CANADA BOG Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 108 Summit CHOKE CREEK SHRUB SWAMP Tobyhanna Twp. Thornhurst; 139 P. View Summit 165
Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
COUNCIL CUP CLIFFS Conyngham & Hollenback Sybertsville; 58, 135 Twps. Berwick COUNTY LINE ISLANDS Falls & Exeter Twps. in Ransom 115 Wyoming County, Newton Twp. in Lackawanna County, & Exeter Twp. in Luzerne County COUNTY LINE SWAMP Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne Lopez 92 County, Forkston Twp in Wyoming County, & Colley Twp. in Sullivan County CRANBERRY POND Slocum Twp. Nanticoke 95 DOGTOWN MINES Salem Twp. Shickshinny 124 DORRANCE BOG Dorrance Twp. Sybertsville 135 DRECK CREEK WATERSHED Hazle Twp. Hazleton 82 DRYLAND HILL POOLS Buck Twp. Pleasant View 109 Summit EAST FORK HARVEYS CREEK Jackson Twp. Harveys Lake 78 SITE - SOUTH EAST FORK HARVEYS CREEK Lehman Twp. Harveys Lake 78 SITE- NORTH EDGEWOOD VERNAL POOLS Butler Twp. Freeland 73 FOLSTOWN MUD POND Slocum Twp. Nanticoke 95 FRANCIS E. WALTER Bear Creek Twp. Hickory Run; 86, 109 RESERVOIR SITE Pleasant View Summit GARDNER CREEK RESERVOIR Jenkins & Plains Twps. Pittston 104 GLEN LYON ANTHRACITE MINE Newport Twp. Nanticoke 95 SITE 166
Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
HANOVER CROSSING WETLAND Hanover Twp. Wilkes-Barre West 154 HARVEYS LAKE Dallas & Lake Twps. in Harveys Lake; 78 Luzerne County & Monroe Noxen Twp. in Wyoming County HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN Rice, Fairview, & Hanover Wilkes-Barre West 154 Twps HELLS KITCHEN Butler Twp. Freeland 74 HELLS KITCHEN ANTHRACITE Butler Twp. Freeland 74 MINE HOBBIE MEADOW Hollenback Twp. Sybertsville 135 HUMBOLDT BARREN Hazle Twp. Conyngham 65 HUNTINGTON CREEK Fairmount Twp. Shickshinny; 124, 130 Sweet Valley ICE CAVES Jackson & Plymouth Twps. Kingston 89 INDEFATIGABLE SWAMP Ross Twp. in Luzerne Dutch Mountain; 69, 130 County & Forkston Twp. in Sweet Valley Wyoming County INDIAN LAKE SWAMP Buck Twp. Pleasant View 109 Summit KIRBY PARK Kingston Boro. Wilkes-Barre West; 89, 154 Kingston KITCHEN CREEK FALLS Fairmount Twp. Red Rock 118 KITCHEN CREEK RAVINES Fairmount Twp. Red Rock 118 LAKE JEAN Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne Red Rock 119 County & Colley Twp.in Sullivan County LAKE LEIGH Fairmount Twp. in Luzerne Red Rock 120 County & Colley Twp.in Sullivan County LEE SWAMP Lake Twp. Harveys Lake 78 167
Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
LEHIGH GORGE Foster Twp. in Luzerne Hickory Run 86 County & Kidder Twp. in Carbon County LEHIGH RIVER-ROUTE 115 Buck Twp. in Luzerne Pleasant View 86, 110, BRIDGE County & Tobyhanna Twp. Summit; 139 in Monroe County Hickory Run; Thornhurst LILY LAKE Conyngham and Slocum Nanticoke 96 Twps.
THE MEADOWS/BEECH LAKE Fairmount & Ross Twps Sweet Valley; 69, 120, Dutch Mountain; 130 Red Rock MILL CREEK AT SUSCON Pittston Twp. Avoca 54 MOUNTAIN SPRINGS LAKES Fairmount & Ross Twps. Sweet Valley 131 MUD POND Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 110 Summit MUD POND WOODS Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 110 Summit MYLETS CORNER Dorrance Twp. Sybertsville 136 NANTICOKE MARSH City of Nanticoke, Hanover Wilkes-Barre West; 96, 155 Twp. Nanticoke NESCOPECK CREEK VALLEY Butler & Dennison Twps. Freeland; 74, 144, White Haven; 149 Wilkes-Barre East NESCOPECK MOUNTAIN Dennison & Wright Twps. Freeland 75 BARRENS NEVEL SWAMP Ross Twp. Sweet Valley 131 NUANGOLA LAKE Nuangola Boro. Wilkes-Barre West 155 NUANGOLA RAILROAD TUNNEL Rice Twp. Wilkes-Barre West 155 168
Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
OLD BEAVER DAM SWAMP Fairmount Twp. Red Rock 120 OPPERMAN PASS Fairmount Twp. Red Rock 93, 121 OPUSSUM SWAMP Ross Twp. in Luzerne Dutch Mountain; 69 County & Forkston Twp. in Wyoming County PENOBSCOT MOUNTAIN Hanover, Newport, Rice, & Wilkes-Barre West; 96, 156 RIDGETOP Slocum Twps. Nanticoke PERRINS MARSH Northumberland Twp. in Center Moreland 62 Wyoming County &
Franklin Twp. in Luzerne County PIPELINE SWAMP Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 110 Summit PIPELINE SWAMP NORTH Bear Creek Twp. Avoca; 54, 111 Pleasant View Summit PITTSTON ROOKERY City of Pittston, Exeter Pittston 104 Boro., & Jenkins Twp.
RED BEAR SWAMP Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 111 Summit RICKETTS GLEN SWAMP Fairmount Township in Red Rock 121 Luzerne County &
Davidson Twp. in Sullivan County ROUTE 309 BRIDGE SITE Wilkes-Barre Boro., Plains Pittston 104 Twp., & Forty-Fort Boro.
SHADES GLEN HEADWATERS Bear Creek Twp. Pleasant View 111 Summit SHICKSHINNY MOUNTAIN Plymouth Twp. Nanticoke 96 RIDGETOP SLOCUM MARSH Slocum Twp. Nanticoke 97 169
Site Municipality USGS Quad. Map Page(s) #
STATE GAME LANDS #57 Ross & Lake Twps. Sweet Valley; 70, 123, Dutch Mountain 132 STOCKTON MT. BARRENS Hazle Twp. Hazleton 82 SUSCON RAILROAD GRADE SITE Pittston Twp. Avoca 55 SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Exeter Twp in Luzerne Ransom 115 DURYEA County & Ransom Twp. in Lackawanna County SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Exeter Twp. in Luzerne Ransom 115 EXETER County, Ransom & Newton Twps. in Lackawanna County SUSQUEHANNA RIVER AT Nanticoke City. & Nanticoke 97 NANTICOKE Plymouth Twp.
THE TUBS Plains Twp. Wilkes-Barre 149 East TILBURY KNOB Plymouth Twp. Nanticoke 97 VALMONT INDUSTRIAL PARK Hazle Twp. Conyngham 65 WILKES-BARRE MOUNTAIN Hanover Twp. Wilkes-Barre West 156 WOLF RUN HEADWATERS Ross Twp. Sweet Valley; 132 SWAMP Dutch Mountain WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED A Dennison Twp. White Haven 144 WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED B Bear Creek Twp. Wilkes-Barre East 149 WRIGHT CREEK WATERSHED C Bear Creek Twp. Wilkes-Barre East 149 WYOMING MOUNTAIN Bear Creek Twp. Wilkes-Barre East; 112, 149 BARRENS P. View Summit 170
APPENDIX I: NATURAL AREA SURVEY FORM APPENDIX I: NATURAL AREA SURVEY FORM Surveyor: Address & Phone:
Date of Observation Site Name:
Quadrangle Name Exact Location of Site (please be specific & include a map or sketch)
Owner:
Owners Attitude Toward Conservation:
Site Elevation: Size of Site (acres):
Source of Lead:
Current Land Use:
Type of Area: Old Growth Forest; Marsh; Shrub Swamp; Forested Swamp; Bog; Natural Pond.
Written
Description:
Try to convey a mental image of the site features (including vegetation, significant animals & plants, aquatic features, land forms, geologic substrata, scenic qualities, etc.):
Evidence of Disturbance:
Site Condition Compared to Your Last Visit:
Please attach any additional information, species list, etc.
Please send completed report forms to Pennsylvania Science Office of The Nature Conservancy, 208 Airport Drive, Middletown, PA 17057 (717) 948-3962. Additional forms may be obtained from this office. Thank you for your contribution.
171
APPENDIX II: COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION APPENDIX II: COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION CLASSIFICATION OF NATURAL COMMUNITIES IN PENNSYLVANIA (1995 DRAFT)
COMMUNITY NAME MAP GLOBAL STATE CODE RANK* RANK*
ESTUARINE COMMUNITIES DEEPWATER SUBTIDAL COMMUNITY EAA G? S1 SHALLOW-WATER SUBTIDAL COMMUNITY EAB G? S1 FRESHWATER INTERTIDAL MUDFLAT EBA G3G4 S1 FRESHWATER INTERTIDAL MARSH ECA G3G4 S1 RIVERINE COMMUNITIES LOW-GRADIENT EPHEMERAL/INTERMITTENT CREEK RAA G? S5 LOW-GRADIENT CLEARWATER CREEK RAB G? S3S4 LOW-GRADIENT CLEARWATER RIVER RAC G? S2S3 LOW-GRADIENT BROWNWATER CREEK RAD G? S2S3 MEDIUM-GRADIENT EPHEMERAL/INTERMITTENT CREEK RBA G? S5 MEDIUM-GRADIENT CLEARWATER CREEK RBB G? S3 MEDIUM-GRADIENT CLEARWATER RIVER RBC G? S?
MEDIUM-GRADIENT BROWNWATER CREEK RBD G? S3 HIGH-GRADIENT EPHEMERAL/INTERMITTENT CREEK RCA G? S5 HIGH-GRADIENT CLEARWATER CREEK RCB G? S3 HIGH-GRADIENT CLEARWATER RIVER RCC G? S?
HIGH-GRADIENT BROWNWATER CREEK RCD G? S?
WATERFALL AND PLUNGEPOOL RDA G? S3S4 SPRING COMMUNITY REA G? S1S2 SPRING RUN COMMUNITY REB G? S1S2 LACUSTRINE ACIDIC GLACIAL LAKE LAAA G? S2S3 CALCAREOUS GLACIAL LAKE LAAB G? S1 NONGLACIAL LAKE LAB G? S2 ARTIFICIAL LAKE LAC *
- NATURAL POND LBA G? S2S3 ARTIFICIAL POND LBB *
- STABLE NATURAL POOL LCA G? S?
EPHEMERAL/FLUCTUATING NATURAL POOL LCB G? S2 ARTIFICIAL POOL LCC *
- EPHEMERAL/FLUCTUATING LIMESTONE SINKHOLE LCD G? S1 172
APPENDIX II: COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION COMMUNITY NAME MAP GLOBAL STATE CODE RANK* RANK*
PALUSTRINE COMMUNITIES ACIDIC BROADLEAF SWAMP PAA G5 S2S3 CIRCUMNEUTRAL BROADLEAF SWAMP PAB G? S2S3 BOREAL CONIFER SWAMP PAC G? S3 NORTHERN CONIFER SWAMP PAD G? S3S4 BROADLEAF-CONIFER SWAMP PAE G? S3S4 FLOODPLAIN SWAMP PAF G? S1 EASTERN CALCAREOUS SEEPAGE SWAMP PAG G? S1 ACIDIC SHRUB SWAMP PAH G5 S3 CIRCUMNEUTRAL SHRUB SWAMP PAJ G? S3 GRAMINOID MARSH PBA G? S3 ROBUST EMERGENT MARSH PBB G? S2 MIXED GRAMINOID-ROBUST EMERGENT MARSH PBC G? S2S3 CALCAREOUS MARSH PBD G? S1 OLIGOTROPHIC GLACIAL KETTLEHOLE BOG PCAA G? S3 WEAKLY MINEROTROPHIC LAKESIDE BOG PCAB G? S2 NONGLACIAL BOG PCB G? S3 RECONSTITUTED BOG PCC *
- POOR (GRAMINOID) FEN PCD G? S1 SHRUB (CALCAREOUS) FEN PDA G2G3 S1 BASIN GRAMINOID-FORB (CALCAREOUS) FEN PDB G? S1 HILLSIDE GRAMINOID-FORB (CALCAREOUS) FEN PDC G? S1 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN CIRCUMNEUTRAL SEEP PEA G? S3?
NORTHERN APPALACHIAN CALCAREOUS SEEP PEB G? S1 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN ACIDIC SEEP PEC G? S3?
RIVERSIDE SEEP PED G? S2?
TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES NORTHERN CONIFER FOREST TBA G5 S3S4 NORTHERN HARDWOOD (DECIDUOUS) FOREST TBB G? S3S4 NORTHERN HARDWOOD-CONIFER FOREST TBC G? S3 XERIC CENTRAL HARDWOOD (DECIDUOUS) FOREST TCA G? S5 XERIC CENTRAL CONIFER FOREST TCB G? S3S4 XERIC CENTRAL HARDWOOD-CONIFER FOREST TCC G? S3 RIDGETOP DWARF-TREE FOREST TCD G4 S2S3 DRY-MESIC ACIDIC CENTRAL FOREST TCE G? S5 DRY-MESIC CALCAREOUS CENTRAL FOREST TCF G? S2S3 MESIC CENTRAL FOREST TCG G? S2 TALUS SLOPE FOREST TCH G? S2?
COASTAL PLAIN FOREST TEA G? S1 FLOODPLAIN FOREST TFA G? S2 RIVER GRAVEL COMMUNITY TGA G? S4S5 MESIC SCRUB OAK-HEATH-PITCH PINE BARRENS TCDA G1 S1 EASTERN SERPENTINE BARRENS THA G2 S1 COMMUNITY NAME MAP GLOBAL STATE CODE RANK* RANK*
173
APPENDIX II: COMMUNITY CLASSIFICATION CENTRAL APPALACHIAN SHALE BARREN THBA G? S1 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN SHALE BARREN THBB G? S2 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN SAND BARREN THC G? S?
NORTHERN APPALACHIAN BOULDER FIELD THD G? S5 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN CALCAREOUS CLIFF THE G? S2 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN ACIDIC CLIFF THF G? S5 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN SHALE CLIFF THG G? S2 RIVERSIDE OUTCROP/CLIFF THJ G? S1S2 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN TALUS WOODLAND TCHA G? S?
NORTHERN APPALACHIAN ACIDIC ROCKY SUMMIT THK G? S2 NORTHERN APPALACHIAN CALCAREOUS ROCKY SUMMIT THM G? S1 CALCAREOUS ROCKY SLOPE TFG G? S?
CALCAREOUS RIVERSIDE OUTCROP THH G? S1 LAKE SEDIMENT SLUMP TGB G? S1 EASTERN GREAT LAKES BEACH COMMUNITY TJA G? S?
EASTERN GREAT LAKES DUNE COMMUNITY TJB G? S?
EASTERN GREAT LAKES SAND PLAINS COMMUNITY TJC G? S?
EASTERN GREAT LAKES BLUFF/CLIFF COMMUNITY TJD G? S?
SUBTERRANEAN COMMUNITIES SOLUTION CAVE TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITY SAA G? S3 SOLUTION CAVE AQUATIC COMMUNITY SAB G? S3 TECTONIC CAVE COMMUNITY SAC G? S3S4 TALUS CAVE COMMUNITY SAD G? S2S4 DISTURBED COMMUNITIES BARE SOIL DAA -- --
MEADOW/PASTURELAND DAB -- --
CULTIVATED LAND DAC -- --
SUCCESSIONAL FIELD DAD -- --
YOUNG MISCELLANEOUS FOREST DAE -- --
CONIFER PLANTATION DAF -- --
- Not all natural communities have been assigned a global or state rank; disturbed or artificial communities are not assigned ranks.
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APPENDIX III: FIELD SURVEY FORM APPENDIX III: FIELD SURVEY FORM PENNSYLVANIA NATURAL DIVERSITY INVENTORY EAST:
SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN FIELD REPORT SNAME: EOCODE:
SURVEYDATE:
SITENAME:
SOURCECODE SURVEYSITE: SURVEYOR:
SPECIMEN REPOSITORY:
Locational Information QUADCODE DOTNUM TEN,TEN COUNTYCODE TOWNSHIP LAT:
LONG:
DIRECTIONS:
Global PA EORANK:
EORANK COMMENTS:
DATA:
HABITAT DESCRIPTION:
MISCELLANEOUS:
DATA SENSITIVITY: OWNERCODE REASON FOR DATA OWNER SENSITIVITY:
HABITAT SKETCH:
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APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS FEDERAL AND STATE STATUS, AND THE NATURE CONSERVANCY (TNC) RANKS FEDERAL STATUS U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE CATEGORIES OF ENDANGERED AND THREATENED PLANTS AND ANIMALS The following definitions are extracted from the September 27, 1985 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service notice in the Federal Register:
LE - Listed Endangered - Taxa in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges.
LT - Listed Threatened - Taxa that are likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future through all or a significant portion of their ranges.
PE - Proposed Endangered - Taxa proposed to be formally listed as endangered.
PT - Proposed Threatened - Taxa proposed to be formally listed as threatened.
C1 - Taxa for which the Service currently has on file substantial information on biological vulnerability and threat(s) to support the appropriateness of proposing to list them as endangered or threatened species.
C2 - Taxa for which information now in possession of the Service indicates that proposing to list them as endangered or threatened species is possibly appropriate, but for which substantial data on biological vulnerability and threats are not currently known or on file to support the immediate preparation of rules.
C3 - Taxa that are no longer being considered for listing as threatened or endangered species. Such taxa are further coded to indicate three categories, depending on the reason(s) for removal from consideration.
3A--Taxa for which the Service has persuasive evidence of extinction.
3B--Names that, on the basis of current taxonomic understanding, usually as represented in published revisions and monographs, do not represent taxa meeting the Act's definition of "species".
3C--Taxa that have proven to be more abundant or widespread than was previously believed and/or those that are not subject to any identifiable threat.
N- Taxa not currently listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 176
APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS STATE STATUS-NATIVE PLANT SPECIES Legislative Authority: Title 25, Chapter 82, Conservation of Native Wild Plants, amended June 18, 1993, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources.
PE - Pennsylvania Endangered - Plant species which are in danger of extinction throughout most or all of their natural range within this Commonwealth, if critical habitat is not maintained or if the species is greatly exploited by man.
This classification shall also include any populations of plant species that have been classified as Pennsylvania Extirpated, but which subsequently are found to exist in this Commonwealth.
PT - Pennsylvania Threatened - Plant species which may become endangered throughout most or all of their natural range within this Commonwealth, if critical habitat is not maintained to prevent further decline in this Commonwealth, or if the species is greatly exploited by man.
PR - Pennsylvania Rare - Plant species which are uncommon within this Commonwealth. All species of native wild plants classified as Disjunct, Endemic, Limit of Range and Restricted are included within the Pennsylvania Rare classification.
PX - Pennsylvania Extirpated - Plant species believed by the Department to be extinct within this Commonwealth.
These plant species may or may not be in existence outside this Commonwealth. If plant species classified as Pennsylvania Extirpated are found to exist, the species automatically will be considered to be classified as Pennsylvania Endangered.
PV - Pennsylvania Vulnerable - Plant species which are in danger of population decline within Pennsylvania because of their beauty, economic value, use as a cultivar, or other factors which indicate that persons may seek to remove these species from their native habitats.
TU - Tentatively Undetermined - Plant species which are believed to be in danger of population decline, but which cannot presently be included within another classification due to taxonomic uncertainties, limited evidence within historical records, or insufficient data.
N- None - Plant species which are believed to be endangered, rare, or threatened, but which are being considered by the required regulatory review processes for future listing.
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APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS STATE STATUS-ANIMALS The following state statuses are used by the Pennsylvania Game Commission for (1990, Title 34, Chapter 133 pertaining to wild birds and mammals) and by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (1991, Title 30, Chapter 75 pertaining to fish, amphibians, reptiles and aquatic organisms):
PE - Pennsylvania Endangered Game Commission - Species in imminent danger of extinction or extirpation throughout their range in Pennsylvania if the deleterious factors affecting them continue to operate. These are: 1) species whose numbers have already been reduced to a critically low level or whose habitat has been so drastically reduced or degraded that immediate action is required to prevent their extirpation from the Commonwealth; or 2) species whose extreme rarity or peripherality places them in potential danger of precipitous declines or sudden extirpation throughout their range in Pennsylvania; or 3) species that have been classified as "Pennsylvania Extirpated", but which are subsequently found to exist in Pennsylvania as long as the above conditions 1 or 2 are met; or 4) species determined to be "Endangered" pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, Public law 93-205 (87 Stat. 884), as amended.
Fish and Boat Commission - Endangered Species are all species and subspecies: (1) declared by the Secretary of the United States Department of the Interior to be threatened with extinction and appear on the Endangered Species List or the Native Endangered Species list published in the Federal Register; or, (2) declared by the Executive Director (PaFC) to be threatened with extinction and appear on the Pennsylvania Endangered Species List published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
PT - Pennsylvania Threatened Game Commission - Species that may become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout their range in Pennsylvania unless the causal factors affecting the organism are abated. These are: 1) species whose populations within the Commonwealth are decreasing or have been heavily depleted by adverse factors and while not actually endangered, are still in critical condition; or 2) species whose populations may be relatively abundant in the Commonwealth but are under severe threat from serious adverse factors that have been identified and documented; or 3) species whose populations are rare or peripheral and in possible danger of severe decline throughout their range in Pennsylvania; or 4) species determined to be "Threatened" pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, Public law 93-205 (87-Stat. 884), as amended, that are not listed as "Pennsylvania Endangered".
Fish and Boat Commission - Threatened Species are all species and subspecies: (1) declared by the Secretary of the United States Department of the Interior to be in such small numbers throughout their range that they may become endangered if their environment worsens and appear on a Threatened Species List published in the Federal Register; or, (2) have been declared by the Executive Director (PaFC) to be in such small numbers throughout their range that they may become endangered if their environment worsens and appear on the Pennsylvania Threatened Species List published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
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APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS TNC GLOBAL ELEMENT RANKS G1 = Critically imperiled globally because of extreme rarity (5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining individuals or acres) or because of some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extinction.
G2 = Imperiled globally because of rarity (6 to 20 occurrences or few remaining individuals or acres) or because of some factor(s) making it very vulnerable to extinction throughout its range.
G3 = Either very rare and local throughout its range or found locally (even abundantly at some of its locations) in a restricted range or because of other factors making it vulnerable to extinction throughout its range; in terms of occurrences, in the range of 21 to 100.
G4 = Apparently secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
G5 = Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
GH = Of historical occurrence throughout its range, i.e., formerly part of the established biota, with the expectation that it may be rediscovered (e.g., Bachman's Warbler).
GU = Possibly in peril range wide but status uncertain; need more information.
GX = Believed to be extinct throughout its range (e.g., Passenger Pigeon) with virtually no likelihood that it will be rediscovered.
TNC STATE ELEMENT RANKS S1 = Critically imperiled in state because of extreme rarity (5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining individuals or acres) or because of some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
S2 = Imperiled in state because of rarity (6 to 20 occurrences or few remaining individuals or acres) or because of some factor(s) making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
S3 = Rare or uncommon in state (on the order of 21 to 100 occurrences).
S4 = Apparently secure in state, with many occurrences.
S5 = Demonstrably secure in state and essentially ineradicable under present conditions.
SA = Accidental in state, including species which only sporadically breed in the state.
SE = An exotic established in state; may be native elsewhere in North America (e.g., house finch).
SH = Of historical occurrence in the state with the expectation that it may be rediscovered.
SN = Regularly occurring, usually migratory and typically non-breeding species for which no significant or effective habitat conservation measures can be taken in the state.
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APPENDIX IV: RANKING DEFINITIONS SR = Reported from the state, but without persuasive documentation which would provide a basis for either accepting or rejecting (e.g., misidentified specimen) the report.
SRF = Reported falsely (in error) from the state but this error persisting in the literature.
SU = Possibly in peril in state but status uncertain; need more information.
SX = Apparently extirpated from the state.
Note: A "T" appearing in either the G Rank or S Rank indicates that the intraspecific taxa is being ranked differently than the species. A "Q" in the rank indicates that there is taxonomic uncertainty about a taxa being ranked (i.e., taxa is being accepted as a full species or natural community in this list but may be treated as a variety or form by others). A
"?" after a "G" or "S" indicates that the rank is uncertain at this time.
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APPENDIX V: PENNSYLVANIA ELEMENT OCCURRENCE QUALITY RANKS APPENDIX V: PENNSYLVANIA ELEMENT OCCURRENCE QUALITY RANKS Quality Rank* Explanation A Excellent occurrence: all A-rank occurrences of an element merit quick, strong protection. An A-rank community is nearly undisturbed by humans or has nearly recovered from early human disturbance; further distinguished by being an extensive, well-buffered occurrence. An A-rank population of a sensitive species is large in area and number of individuals, stable, if not growing, shows good reproduction, and exists in natural habitat.
B Good occurrence: protection of the occurrence is important to the survival of the element in Pennsylvania, especially if very few or no A-rank occurrences exist. A B-rank community is still recovering from early disturbance or recent light disturbance, or is nearly undisturbed but is less than A-rank because of significantly smaller size, poorer buffer, etc. A B-rank population of a sensitive species is at least stable, in a minimally disturbed habitat, and of moderate size and number.
C Fair occurrence: protection of the occurrence helps conserve the diversity of a region's or county's biota and is important to statewide conservation if no higher-ranked occurrences exist. A C-rank community is in an early stage of recovery from disturbance, or its structure and composition have been altered such that the original vegetation of the site will never rejuvenate, yet with management and time partial restoration of the community is possible. A C-rank population of a sensitive species is in a clearly disturbed habitat, small in size and/or number, and possibly declining.
D Poor occurrence: protection of the occurrence may be worthwhile for historical reasons or only if no higher ranked occurrences exist. A D-rank community is severely disturbed, its structure and composition been greatly altered, and recovery to original conditions, despite management and time, essentially will not take place. A D-rank population of a sensitive species is very small with a high likelihood of dying out or being destroyed, and exists in a highly disturbed and vulnerable habitat.
E Verified as extant, but has not been given a rank; additional information needed to evaluate quality.
- Intermediate ranks may also be assigned.
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APPENDIX VI: SPECIAL PLANTS AND ANIMALS OF LUZERNE COUNTY APPENDIX VI: SPECIAL PLANTS AND ANIMALS OF LUZERNE COUNTY PLANTS SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Amelanchier humilis Serviceberry Amelanchier sanguinea Roundleaf serviceberry Aster radula Rough-leaved aster Bartonia paniculata Screw-stem Carex lasiocarpa Slender sedge Carex limosa Mud sedge Carex oligosperma Few-seeded sedge Carex polymorpha Variable sedge Elatine minima Small waterwort Eleocharis olivacea Capitate spike-rush Gaultheria hispidula Creeping snowberry Gentiana linearis Narrow-leaved gentian Glyceria borealis Small-floating manna-grass Helianthemum bicknellii Bicknell's hoary rockrose Juncus filiformis Thread rush Ledum groenlandicum Common labrador-tea Lonicera hirsuta Hairy honeysuckle Lupinus perennis Lupine Lygodium palmatum Hartford fern Megalodonta beckii Beck's water-marigold Muhlenbergia uniflora Fall dropseed muhly Myriophyllum heterophyllum Broad-leaved water-milfoil Najas gracillima Bushy naiad Orontium aquaticum Golden club Oryzopsis pungens Slender mountain-ricegrass Panicum xanthophysum Slender panic-grass Platanthera blephariglottis White fringed-orchid Platanthera ciliaris Yellow-fringed orchid Polemonium vanbruntiae Jacob's-ladder Polystichum braunii Braun's holly fern Potamogeton robbinsii Flat-leaved pondweed Potentilla tridentata Three-toothed cinquefoil Prunus pumila Sand cherry Ranunculus aquatilis var diffusus White water crowfoot Ribes lacustre Swamp currant Schoenoplectus torreyi Torrey's bullrush Stellaria borealis Mountain starwort Streptopus amplexifolius White twisted-stalk Utricularia cornuta Horned bladderwort Utricularia geminiscapa Bladderwort Utricularia purpurea Purple bladderwort Viola selkirkii Great-spurred violet Xyris montana Northern yellow-eyed grass 182
APPENDIX VI: SPECIAL PLANTS AND ANIMALS OF LUZERNE COUNTY ANIMALS SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Accipiter gentilis Northern goshawk Aegolius acadicus Northern saw-whet owl Anodonta implicata Alewife floater Aplectoides condita A noctuid moth Ardea herodias Great blue heron Botaurus lentiginosus American bittern Carterocephalus palaemon mandan Arctic skipper Chaetaglaea cerata A sallow moth Chlosyne harrisii Harris' checkerspot Circus cyaneus Northern harrier Cistothorus palustris Marsh wren Crotalus horridus Timber rattlesnake Diarsia rubifera A moth Dorocordulia lepida Elegant skimmer Empidonax flaviventris Yellow-bellied flycatcher Epiglaea apiata Pointed sallow Erynnis persius persius Persius duskywing Falco peregrinus Peregrine falcon Gallinago gallinago Common snipe Glena cognataria Blueberry gray Hemileuca maia Barrens buckmoth Hesperia leonardus Leonard's skipper Heterodon platyrhinos Eastern hognose snake Itame sp 1 Barrens itame (cf i. Inextricata)
Lampsilis cariosa Yellow lampmussel Lycaena epixanthe Bog copper Metaxaglaea semitaria Footpath sallow moth Myotis septentrionalis Northern myotis Myotis sodalis Indiana or social myotis Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned night-heron Pandion haliaetus Osprey Panthea sp 1 A moth Papaipema sp 1 Flypoison borer moth Porzana carolina Sora Psectraglaea carnosa Pink sallow Rallus limicola Virginia rail Sciurus niger vulpinus Eastern fox squirrel Sideridis maryx A moth Sphinx gordius Gordian sphinx Syngrapha epigaea A moth Umbra pygmaea Eastern mudminnow 183