Petite Côte Marsh EarthCache
Hidden : 7/8/2012
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1.5 out of 5

Size: Size: not chosen (not chosen)

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Geocache Description:

Petite Côte Marsh Earthcache

Background.
The Detroit River was formed some 10,000-12,000 years ago during the retreat of the Wisconsin Glacier. As the large sheet of ice melted and receded, it caused significant changes to the landscape. The Great Lakes, their adjoining rivers, and numerous wetlands are the result of glacial scour and pooling of meltwater at the rim of the receding ice. The Petite Côte Conservation Area is nestled alongside the Detroit River, south of LaSalle, Ontario. This area is home to an important marsh habitat. Petite Côte is translated from French to English to mean 'Small Coast', which was a reference made by early 18th century settlers to describe the shorter length of river frontage compared to the Detroit side.

Endangered coastal wetlands.
Coastal wetlands are commonly formed where there is relatively flat land, shallow water, and a barrier to wave and wind action. They are valuable resources ecologically, recreationally, and aesthetically. Coastal wetlands were extensive along the Detroit River 200 years ago (year 1815). However, 97% of the coastal wetlands on both sides of the Detroit River have been lost to development. Other losses of habitat included removal of limestone spawning grounds for lake whitefish in order to create navigational channels, clearing of wooded areas for agriculture, and contamination of the water by waste effluents. In the process, people lost benefits provided by wetlands along the river, such as flood control, protection from shoreline erosion, and removal of nutrients and sediment.

Geology of coastal wetlands.
Geology plays a critical role in understanding wetland dynamics. Three characteristics make wetlands unique -- vegetation, soils, and hydrology. The vegetation is dominated by plants adapted to wet conditions (many of which are rooted); the soils are developed in water-saturated materials; and the areas are either saturated, periodically flooded, or contain permanently standing water.

Petite Côte marsh.
Petite Côte marsh is designated as a provincially significant wetland and important marsh habitat. Marshes are defined as wetlands frequently or continually inundated (filled) with water, characterized by vegetation (plants, etc) adapted to saturated soil conditions. Marshes have an interesting mix of plant and animal life, one that effectively demonstrates the interconnectedness of living things. Most migratory species, in fact, rely on a network of wetlands to get from their southern habitats to nest sites further north.


From the parking lot (see additional waypoint), walk along the boardwalk (made of recycled plastic and sawdust) to the posted coordinates. Be sure to look around, as this is a great area for birdwatching!

In order to log this Earthcache, you must email team wiji (see profile for email) the answers to the following questions:

1. At the posted coordinates, climb to the top of the lookout tower for an excellent view of the marsh with the Detroit River in the background. Based on your observations and information provided above, what are the main features of the area which allowed the formation of this marsh? (i.e. Are their elevation variations in the marsh land? How is the marsh situated in proximity to the river?)

2. Estimate the percentage of the marsh that is filled with vegetation (plants, etc). As a result, would you characterize the soil in the marsh as nutrient-rich or nutrient-poor?

3. -OPTIONAL- Post a photo of your team and/or your GPSr from the top of the outlook tower with the marsh in the background. You may post this photo with your log.

++ Congratulations to jkbailey on the FTF!! ++

This cache placed and maintained by an Ontario Geocaching Association Member

Additional Hints (No hints available.)



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