Salem Outdoor Wetland Classroom.
On the 4th of July 2009 we discovered the Salem Outdoor Wetlands Classroom and thought it was neat, so we decided to do an Earth cache on this wetland. We thought it was really cool. The Salem Outdoor Wetland Classroom is a wetland.
A wetland is defined by three characteristics: Hydrology, soils, and plant species. Hydrology is the science of water properties, circulation and distribution. Wetland hydrology requires that the ground be covered or saturated by water for at least several weeks during the growing season.
This saturation creates specific wetland soils and determines the plant species that can grow their roots in water or wet soil for extended periods. This wetland is operated by adjusting water levels retained by the earth and rock berm (dam) Groundwater springs flowing into the wetland supply the water.
A pipe carries the water through the berm into a manhole. The water spills over stop logs (boards) placed in the manhole and flows through a pipe into Salem Pond. Stop logs can be added or removed to adjust the wetland water elevation. For proper maintenance each year the water is raised 4 inches above the normal operating level for 2 weeks in April to flood the soil and vegetation at the south end of the wetland.
The water level remains at its natural state the rest of the year. This Wetland contains 6 different plant communities. One of the plants growing here is the Rush community. It grows in shallow water up to 6 inches deep. Typical species include rushes and spike rushes.
Many animal species use the rich resources of wetlands for food and shelter and to reproduce. Some of the different types of animals that live here are; ducks, crayfish, raccoons, frogs, toads, and salamanders. As you walk around the boardwalk you will come across plaques, they will give you the answers to the following:
1)What are the names of 6 plant communities found at the Salem Outdoor Wetlands classroom?
2)What is the purpose of the Salem Outdoor Wetlands classroom?
3) What is the Mayors name that is on the plaque?
4) What are three characteristics that are defined on this wetland?
5) Name 3 animal species that use the rich resources of wetlands for food, shelter, and to reproduce.
Logging requirements:
To log this cache, you must visit the site, and answer the questions. Please email answers to us. Please don’t post pictures of your answers or post logs with answers (even Encrypted), or your log will be deleted. Thanks
(Optional) If you would like, you can also submit a photo near the earth cache.