Intertidal flats can be defined as shallow-sloped shorelines, with expanses of fine and unconsolidated sediment that are flooded with each high tide. Tidal flats can further be defined as sandy to muddy or marshy flats which uncover and cover daily with the tides.
Intertidal flats form when sediment, carried by rivers or the ocean, encounters a low-energy environment and settles to the bottom. Inlets or bays that are sheltered from waves are some examples. Over time, this sediment accumulates, making the area flatter and wider, which in turn encourages further sediment deposition.
At Cherry Point Park, inter-tidal flats have formed due to delta deposits from Garnett Creek allowing the creation of this ocean side park. Even though the it's very small, centuries of sediment flowing from Garnett Creek have formed this small delta. The delta is comprised of large and small gravel sediment sitting on a base of mud. This material has been carried from inland locations to this area where it is deposited as the creek's velocity slows as it spreads out over the flat intertidal region.
If you follow the trail to the right you will quickly come to the Cherry Point's sandy beach. Please make yourself familiar with the sediment in this location. The beach sand was deposited here by the ocean waves and currents. It is mostly comprised of the finer sands eroded from nearby headlands and glacial till.
In order to log this cache, send us an email (through our geocaching profile) that has the answers to the following questions:
1. Compare the sediment at the beach to the sediment where Garnett Creek has created the intertidal flats. How do they differ?
2. Stand by or on the intertidal flat. Look closely for signs of life. Compare what you observe/find on the intertidal flat to what signs of life you find on the sandy beach. How do they differ? You may have to pick up some rocks or observe the wildlife to be able to answer this question confidently.
3. How wide is Garnet Creek where it flows under the bridge at the entrance to Cherry Point Park?
Cherry Point Nature Observation Park is only 0.06 ha (0.15 ac) in size.
This park is managed by the Cowichan Valley Regional District on a renewable license from the provincial government.