This cache was launched at the 2019 Phragmites Removal event GC865H4. It is one of the six geocaches that were placed for that event. The Crosswinds Cache Crew collaborated with the Wayne County Park System, the River Raisin Institue, and the Stewardship Network to work towards removing this invasive plant and raise awareness of the harm that it does to the marsh.
Why is Phragmites a problem?
Fire danger: Phragmites grows rapidly, and each fall, plant material dies back, creating large concentrations of tinder-dry vegetation that increase the potential for fast-spreading fires that can threaten residential and commercial developments on surrounding uplands.
Biological impacts: Phragmites outcompetes and blocks out native marsh vegetation and provides little or no food or shelter for most marsh-dependent wildlife. Phragmites can also eliminate small channels and obliterate pool habitat that offers natural refuge and feeding grounds for invertebrates, fish, and waterbirds. Phragmites can create a dense jungle of vegetation that native marsh birds, fur-bearing mammals, and even deer cannot penetrate. In addition, decomposing Phragmites can raise the surface elevation of the marsh more rapidly than would occur with slower-growing native marsh vegetation. Higher elevations reduce water flooding, depriving the marsh of vital nutrients needed by native marsh plants and animals. A higher and drier marsh leads to the less vigorous growth of native marsh vegetation, allowing Phragmites to gain a stronger foothold and continue its spread over the marsh.
The cache:
The cache is a small-sized lock and lock hidden just off the Northern Horse Trail. Slight bushwhacking might be required as well as boots during the wet spring months. Please return where found.
Crosswinds Marsh Rules
No fires
No bikes / ATVs / personal watercraft
No swimming or ice fishing
Dogs must be leashed
No alcohol or illegal substances
No camping
Fishing in designated areas only
Collecting of plants & animals prohibited
Park only at N 42° 05.744' W 83° 26.552'
All Geocachers must follow the above rules.
Crosswinds Marsh is open from DAWN to DUSK. Admission is FREE.
The Crosswinds Cache Crew pledge to develop and maintain quality and interesting geocaches in the Marsh consistent with Geocaching and Wayne County Parks rules and permit process. For more information on the Cache Crew and our endeavors, please visit us on the web at http://www.crosswindscaching.com and on social media.
This cache has been placed with the permissions of Wayne County Parks. Permit MVC19-12 has been submitted and is on file at the park office.