Congaree Floodplain Forest
By Carrot Killer
Swamps - Swamps are a type of wetland on low land that are completely saturated and filled with water most of the year. Unlike marshes which are characterized by their abundance of grasses, Swamps are usually filled with trees and other vegetation. The swamp is usually found in low lying areas in which there is little or no relief from a major source of water. Unlike a floodplain, swamps don’t periodically drain. The flow of water in a swamp is either very slow or nonexistent. The color of water in a swamp can vary as well going from a yellow all the way to a dark black. The color is a result of the organic material at the bottom of the swamp and it’s ability or inability to decay.
Floodplains - Floodplains are flat land area in which a water source such as a stream or river is able to periodically flood excess water into. For a flood plain to be persistent there must be ample vegetative growth, otherwise erosion would simply overtake the area. When a flood plain is inundated with water there should be an equilibrium of erosion on one end and deposition from the other end. When this happens a bar can form inside of the floodplain.
During a time of flood slits can form on the surface due to retreating floodwater. When this water is trapped by the vegetation in the area the floodplain will begin to rise. Natural levees can form in areas with a stable bank. Flood plains are an essential element of the stream system. This area tends to flood between 10-12 times per years. The floods here can last only a few days all the way up to a few months.
Explore the Boardwalk
Walk along the boardwalk and use evidence to answer the questions. There is a waypoint provided is a good location to find your answers.
Logging Requirements
Either send me a message through geocaching.com or use the email function.
Question 1) Is the area currently flooded? If so, can you see a high water mark above the current level?
Question 2) This area is often called a swamp and a floodplain. How is it inaccurate to label this area a straight swamp?
Question 3) What evidence can you see of previous flooding?
Question 4) Can you identify any effects that previous flooding has had on the area?
Optional)
Please post a picture of yourself and/or your group.
Note:
The posted coordinates lead you to the park's visitor center. Please take a minute to explore the exhibits inside and/or watch the free video in the theater.