Exploration of Rock Point-October 11th, 2020
The Beginning of Fall!
Rock Point is a natural area in Burlington Vermont, open to the public. The park holds public gardens, plenty of hiking trails, a view of Lake Champlain at the Thrust Fault, and multiple educational opportunities surrounding nature and ecology. I got to Rock Point by taking the bus from UVM to the Burlington High school bus stop, walking a very short three minutes to get to the Rock Point entrance. The whole excursion took about 30 minutes, a manageable and easy trip for those who are willing to make it (It is definitely worth it!!). I decided to choose Rock Point for my phenology assignment after visiting it on a recent NR1 lab. As I walked through the forests of Rock Point for the first time, eventually trekking over to the Champlain Thrust Fault by the water, I instantly fell in love with the location. I believe that Rock Point has so much to offer ecologically, and it is a truly fascinating place to learn and study the seasons. Through my next few months at Rock Point I will be focusing mainly on the Champlain Thrust fault and the Limestone Bluff Cedar-Pine Forest that rests above it.
Map of Rock Point Center
Vegetation and Woody Plants
Because the Thrust Fault is considered a Limestone Bluff Cedar-Pine Forest, it is easy to guess that the forest is comprised of mostly Northern White Cedars and White Pines. However, while walking through the woods you may also spot some Red Oak, Green Ash, and Sugar Maple, along with other less common species such as Shagbark Hickory. The shrubbery is mainly comprised of Buckthorn, an invasive species that is easily spread throughout the forest. The leaves of the deciduous trees have began to turn yellow, while the coniferous trees are still holding their green color. You will also notice while walking through the woods, or even taking a look at the Thrust Fault, that many of the cedars are able to grow their roots on and around rocks, a helpful adaptation in the ecosystem.
Photos from 10/11/20
