Deckertown Turnpike, Montague Township, NJ
Phone: (908) 879-7262
www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/newjersey/
The Nature Conservancy
Turn Right onto U.S. Route 206 North when leaving Stokes. After 4.8 miles turn Right onto CR 675 North. After 3.6 miles turn Right onto CR 650 East/Deckertown Turnpike. Continue approximately 2.5 miles. The trail entrance is on the Left side of the road; parking is on the shoulder of the road. Map
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| White Bog Orchid | GA Cooper |
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| | This 1,000-acre preserve hosts ten distinct and significant natural plant communities, ranging from an open-water aquatic community to mixed oak-hardwood upland forest. Covering approximately 200 acres is a quaking boreal bog in various stages of succession. Locally known as Lost Lake, the bog transitions from the open water of the former glacial lake to a floating sphagnum mat with associated herbs and low shrubs, to high shrubs with stunted tamaracks, to either a red maple or black spruce forest with associated species, and is home to many unique and relic plants. It is truly one of New Jersey’s most unique ecosystems and an experience not to be missed.
the boreal bog section with its floating mat, relic plants, and ecological setting that is more typically found in northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and other high latitude areas, thus making it genuinely unique for our region.
The winter is the least hospitable time for a visit due to camp-related closures and lack of parking especially if there is snow cover. The trail is difficult to traverse following a snowfall.
This season is much more welcoming as birds return and plants regenerate. A mix of migrants and forest-nesting birds arrive with peak numbers during May. Look for Nashville Warbler, a probable breeder, Northern Parula, Northern Waterthrush, Louisiana Waterthrush, Swamp Sparrow and Golden-winged Warbler. The forest will present an open understory due to deer browsing; however, visibility into the wetlands will be at its best because snow will have flattened much of last year’s succulent growth. Cold-blooded reptiles such as black rat snake or a variety of turtles may be observed basking in the sun, welcoming the warmth of spring.
June is the best month to visit this preserve as nesting activity will be at its peak as will the morning and evening bird chorus. Many birds breed in the area, including the Winter Wren, Hermit Thrush, Eastern Wood Pewee, Ruffed Grouse and Wood Duck, and many are listed as possible or probable breeders, including Northern Goshawk, Black-billed and Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Chimney Swift and Acadian and Alder Flycatchers. The wetland habitat attracts a diversity of dragonfly and damselfly species. Bring along a field guide; it is entirely possible to identify an Odonata species that is state-ranked as rare or threatened.
The loop trail makes for a relaxing autumn walk. The colors, especially in the forested wetlands and around the 46-acre Mashipacong Pond will be spectacular. Also enjoy the more subtle texture of coloration of autumn wetland habitat. There will be a good mix of fall migrants to observe, including raptors, such as Broad-winged, Cooper’s, Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks following the western portion of the double-crested Kittatinny Ridge. Keep a watch skyward.
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