This small Tupperware cache is located in a wonderful little
Shoreline park called Bruggers Bog. There are picnic tables, green
fields, a small stream, wetlands, and a nice playground for the
kids.
This page was originally written by Durango, who should get
credit. The original microcache drove cache-seekers crazy before
vanishing inside the stump (at the coordinates), so on 6/19/06,
I replaced the cache with a larger one in a new location. But just
giving out the updated coordinates would be too easy for my clever
TUS audience, so I'm going to let you scour the park for other
"lone stumps", one of which hides the new cache! Happy
hunting!
Now, one of Durango's favorite things to do with the kids is
take them outdoors and teach them about nature. There are learning
opportunities all around us we can all benefit from. Many people
living on the Sound know about wetlands, but this is a great place
to bring your kids and provide some education. Then they can play
on the equipment and enjoy the day. I've provided some information
and links below.
Wetlands
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Wetlands are areas where water is present on or near the surface
of the ground for most of the year. The amount of water present
largely determines the types of flora and fauna that thrive in the
area. The water provides for abundant plant life. When those plants
die, they enrich the soil as nature's compost. This fertile
environment, once well established, will allow even rare and
delicate species to grow that are seldom seen elsewhere.
Animals are attracted to the shelter and nourishment wetlands
provide, especially birds. Migratory birds rely on the wetland to
provide food and shelter for their long journeys. They also use
these areas to hatch and raise their young. There is often safety
on the water, as terrestrial animals are often hesitant to get
their paws wet!
Wetlands have other important benefits for humans. They provide
a natural reservoir for excess water to prevent flooding in our
neighborhoods. They are also giant water filters. Many contaminants
that would otherwise flow into sensitive salmon spawning streams
are trapped in the wetlands where bacteria help to degrade them.
Wetlands also trap silt and fine soil particles, preventing
excessive erosion during heavy rains.
Bruggers Bog is a temperate Northern Bog. These are associated
with lower temperature and shorter growing seasons than swamps. The
high humidity and ample precipitation allow sphagnum peats to
accumulate. The water becomes very acidic and thus special flora
can grow here that is acidophilic, or acid loving. This area was
long ago altered by human contact. However, you can still enjoy the
gently meandering stream, the towering cedars, and the green
grass.
What I have described is just the simple beginning. Take a
moment to open your eyes, teach yourself and others if you get the
chance.