Soils of RI #13: Pootatuck Traditional Cache
Soils of RI #13: Pootatuck
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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This is the 13th in a series of caches honoring the 58 different types of soils found within the State of Rhode Island. Soils were a major factor in the settling and early farming of RI, and soils continue to influence our industry, recreation, wildlife, and homes. As you complete this series, please take note of how the soil is determined in-part by the landscape position (summit, sideslope, drainageway), which in turn affects the vegetation.
This cache is located in Belmont Park, on the Warwick-Cranston Line. Until 1982, Belmont Park was a residential neighborhood that was often flooded by the Pawtuxet River. In 1982, the Army Corps of Engineers approved a $3.7 million plan to demolish the neighborhood and relocate the residents. Floodwaters that inundate this land no longer cause millions in damages, and flooding here helps lessen flood waters further downstream. Today, the park contains some nice open fields and ballparks, as well as a few trails.
The soils in Belmont Park are classified as Pootatuck soils, which are moderately well-drained floodplain soils. These soils are regulated as freshwater wetlands and are usually found along the banks of streams and rivers. Pootatuck soils have a lower watertable and are not flooded as often as Rippowam soils.
These soils are not suited to development because of flooding and high water table. Some areas are used for farming. Typical plants include white pine, white, yellow, and gray birch, red maple, elm, and alder.
As for the cache, you are looking for the usual duct-taped plastic container that contains a more detailed description of Pootatuck soils and some swag. Cache is located a short distance from the paved path... only light bushwhacking required. Belmont park is open sunrise to sunset. Please rehide as found.
High fives to bjm3rd for the FTF!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Gurer ner fbzr fbvyf pnyyrq Naqvfbyf gung sbezrq va ibypnavp zngrevnyf fhpu nf nfu naq pvaqre, ohg gurl'er abg sbhaq nebhaq gurfr cnegf.
Treasures
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