The Nature Conservancy-PA celebrates the purchase of 116 acres of critical habitat at the Tannersville Cranberry Bog – marking the culmination of a decades-long protection effort of this National Natural Landmark.
The Conservancy joins the Monroe County Conservation District and local volunteer Bog committee members in inviting the public to join the celebration at the annual “Bog Day” on October 18.
The Cranberry Bog is the southernmost boreal bog on the eastern seaboard. Thousands of years ago, during the last ice age, a large glacial lake occupied the space. While the ice and lake have long receded, a unique bog ecosystem remains and supports rare species like the carnivorous sundew and pitcher plant, and a variety of orchids. It is also home to black bears, otters, and bobcats.
“The Bog is truly a unique natural gem and is a reflection of the glacial activity that transformed this area millions of years ago,” said Ralph (Bud) Cook, Senior Project Manager of The Nature Conservancy. “It would be impossible to replace if it were destroyed. Acquiring this final property is a tremendous conservation achievement. We are grateful to the Weiss family, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and to the Monroe County Commissioners and Open Space Program for providing much of the funding to purchase the property after nearly 60 years of conservation efforts.”
The Conservancy purchased the first property in 1957 from Allan and Margaret Bryson. Over the past 58 years, 15 other property owners have either donated or sold their lands to The Nature Conservancy or Pocono Township to protect the Bog.
The Weiss Family owned the 116-acre property for 40 years, and while the purchase transaction was finalized earlier this year, the conservation conversations between the family and the Conservancy began nearly 30 years ago.
“We are delighted that the property will be protected by the Conservancy,” said Lisa Weiss. “We hope that visitors to the Bog can enjoy the same beauty of the property that our family has been able to appreciate for many years.”
The Conservancy manages the Preserve and contracts with the Monroe County Conservation District to provide guided walks for the public and tours for groups. It has long been a favorite school trip for fourth-grade children in Monroe County public schools.
More than 4,000 adults and children visit the Bog annually for guided nature walks provided by Conservation District staff.
“The Bog is a place where the public can learn about and enjoy some of the unusual plants and animals that make the Poconos special,” said Roger Spotts, tour leader and Director of the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center of the Monroe County Conservation District. “Having access to the Weiss property for educational tours will enable our educators to talk about the importance of land protection and the direct impact on water quality, as the property abuts Cranberry Creek, a high-quality waterway.”
During Bog Day October 18, the public will have the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of the newly acquired Weiss tract. The walk, from 10 a.m. to noon, will wind through upland forest and open meadows overlooking Cranberry Creek. Guided Boardwalk tours of the Bog will be offered throughout the day as well.
Pre-registration is required. For more information, call Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center at 570-621-3061.
For more information about the Conservancy and the Cranberry Bog, visit The Nature Conservancy-PA Preserves webpage.
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