Based on the “ecological potential” present at my site, I would classify the ecological community as a Northern Hardwood forest. Upon identifying the community that mirrored the composition of my site, I further researched the Northern Hardwood forest and discovered that many of the flora and fauna observations I had previously made were noted as identifying characteristics for the particular ecological community. Specifically, the most prominent tree species on my site (birch, maple and white pine) in addition to the undergrowth of moss and ferns match the description provided by the Green Mountain club. This organization also highlights the prevalence of animal species such as woodpeckers, black-capped chickadees, and white-tailed deer– all species I have either witnessed firsthand or documented signs of. Fungal growth on trees is also listed as yet another defining characteristic of this ecological community. Throughout my time visiting the site, I have witnessed an incredible abundance and variety of fungal growth. Additionally, I would suggest that a portion of my site, the area which is closest to the brook, resembles the ecological community of a disturbance floodplain. The shape of the land, a basin of sorts, allows for water to flow down into the area and support undergrowth. The “disturbance” portion of the floodplain results from the fact that the site would serve as a favorable habitat for ecosystem architects– beavers in particular (many downed trees have appeared over the course of my visits).
Thompson, Elizabeth Hathaway., and Eric R. Sorenson. Wetland, Woodland, Wildland: a Guide to the Natural Communities of Vermont. Vermont Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and the Nature Conservancy, 2005.
“The Northern Hardwood Forest.” Green Mountain Club, 23 Mar. 2017, www.greenmountainclub.org/northern-hardwood-forest/.