Back to Forests of the Central Appalachians |
Feedback
Giles County, Virginia
December 1999
Back to Forests of the Central Appalachians | FeedbackGeneral
The long Valley of Potts Creek that extends southwest from the Covington, Virginia is flanked on the southeast by Potts Mountain and on the northwest by Peters Mountain. Hemmed in by gorges in its lower reaches, this branch of the James River flows in an increasingly open valley upstream where it passes through a part of West Virginia. This openness between the ramparts of the great linear ridges creates an impression of expansive skies reminiscent of western landscapes, and highlighted, as on some of our visits, by autumn colors, possesses a scenic grandeur unsurpassed in its type. Farther southwest the headwaters of this stream descend from the eastern continental divide and the road, still on the Valley bottom, crosses from Monroe County, West Virginia into Giles County, Virginia and the Stony Creek Watershed of the New River drainage.
While only one of many so-named in these mountains, Stony Creek lives up to its name. It well reflects the regional geology which is dominated by resistant Silurian and Devonian sandstones and quartzites that cap the ridges and extend down steep valley sides.[1] Far different are the soft, mostly Devonian shales of some valley floors and the Ordovician limestones and dolomites of the northwest slope of Peters Mountain (out of the watershed) as well as scattered locations in the watershed. Peters Mountain retains its linear form far to the southwest, even beyond the New River Narrows watergap, where it changes its name to East River Mountain. However, Potts Mountain broadens into several shorter ranges such as Salt Pond Mountain and a plateau-like highland which contains Mountain Lake, one of only two natural lakes in Virginia. Here also is one of the largest federal wilderness areas in the region, the Mountain Lake Wilderness. Another wilderness area, the Peters Mountain, is nearby. Both wilderness areas, and much of the Stony Creek watershed, lie in the Jefferson National Forest.
Elevations in the Stony Creek Watershed range from 1600 ft. (490 meters) to over 4000 ft (1200 meters) asl. While erosion-resistant sandstones and quartzites such as the Tuscarora, Keefer, Rocky Gap and Rose Hill hold up the mountains, many rocks and soils of the slopes are not in place but are colluvial boulder, talus, debris train and block field deposits (Rader et al, 1986). On such slopes drainage, moisture and nutrient availability may be difficult to assess or predict.
The dominant forest type of the watershed is the dry ericaceous oak forest which is developed on acidic siliceous rocks. The woody component of this forest was studied in some detail by Adams and Stephenson, (1983) on the southeast slope of Peters Mountain. It is characterized by steady rises in importance values with elevation of Northern Red and White Oaks with corresponding decreases in the importance of Chestnut and Scarlet Oaks and Red Maple. These relations may also be observed along the Appalachian trail ascent in the Peters Mountain Wilderness which exhibits typical Northern Red Oak summit forest of “orchard” form trees. Here also, on 6-28-93 were noted a small tree and shrub layer with Mountain Holly (Ilex montana ), still blooming Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum ), Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) and Minnie-bush (Menziesia pilosa ) and ground cover of Galax (Galax aphylla) and Canada Mayflower (Maianthemum canadense) as well as Large Round-leaved Orchid (Habenaria orbiculata ), also in bloom. This flora, which is typical of the Stony Creek Watershed, marks a transitional belt to the southern Appalachians. Such boreal species as Canada Mayflower form communities with southern endemics like Galax at high elevations and in valley flats and wetlands. Here Galax is common at virtually all elevations,but this abundance falls off rapidly to the north, and the species is scarce and virtually excluded from high elevations north of the James River. Of special interest in the watershed is the occurrence of American Holly (Ilex opaca) at elevations exceeding 2400 ft (730 meters) asl. It is likely that this occurrence signals migration along the New River drainage and may be an ecotype adaptation to cooler conditions here.
Stony Creek tributaries lie in dominantly siliceous and hence acid drainages. However this trend is presumably moderated on the mainstem, especially in its lower reaches, which are under the influence of more carbonates. As part of the Ohio System the stream is habitat for the large aquatic salamander, the Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis). Another inhabitant is the increasingly rare fish, the Candy Darter (Etheostoma osburni ). A further point of interest is the occurrence, just outside the watershed, at the Narrows, of the only known colony of the Peters Mountain Mallow (Iliamna corei ). Even the cursory nature of the investigations reported here hint at a wealth of rare species and unusual communities yet to be discovered in the region.
Peters Mountain Wilderness
Source Walks: 6-28-93 and 5-12-98
Each of our traverses began at the Route 635 parking lot at an elevation of 2375 feet (724 m) on the Stony Creek bottom.That of 6-28-93 was rapid and the inventory cursory, but it extended along the Appalachian Trail to near the Peters Mountain summit at perhaps 3800 feet (1159 m) asl. Our inventory along the same trail on 5-12-98 was much more thorough, but terminated at the 3000 ft. (915 m) level. An interesting feature noted on the latter date was the retarded degree of advancement of leafing-out here when compared to that observed on Little Stony Creek on the previous day (see our section on Little Stony Creek). This climatic feature was also reflected in the markedly cooler temperature at other areas, such as Interior, along the base of Peters Mountain at this time.
The geology of the southeast slope of Peters Mountain, the slope traversed by us, is dominated by Silurian sandstones and quartzites of several formations, but also includes a little of the Upper Ordovician Juneata Formation. The sequence of formations traversed from bottom to top is, according to Rader et al (1986) as follows: 1) colluvium, 2) Tonoloway, 3) Keefer, 4) Rose Hill, 5) Tuscarora, 6) Juneata, 7 ) colluvium, 8) Rose Hill and 9) Tuscarora, with the repetition indicating a rather complex structure.
In what follows the observed species and terrain features are listed in the order in which they were encountered on our 5-12-98 traverse. As is conventional, both common and scientific names of less familiar species are given on first mention but, with few exceptions,only common names thereater.
The canopy at the trailhead consisted of Tuliptree, Red Maple, Black and White Oaks and scattered Canada Hemlock apparently free of the Adelgid. Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) and Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) constituted an understory and Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana ), Buffalonut (Pyrularia pubera), Upland Low Blueberry ( Vaccinium pallidum) and Deer Berry (V. stamineum) shrub layers. Summer Grape (Vitis aestivalis) was the only vine seen. The soil in this low elevation upland forest was a stony mor. Measurements yielded a pH in the range of 3.7 to 5.0.
The ground flora in this acid forest was dominated by Teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens ) and Galax (Galax aphylla) was common. Other herbs were Four-leaved Yam (Dioscorea quaternata), Nodding Fescue (Festuca obtusa), Heartleaf (Hexastylis virginica), White Wood Aster (Aster divaricatus), Curtis Goldenrod (Solidago curtisii ), Halberd-leaf Violet (Viola hastata) in bloom and Squaw Root (Conopholis americana ). Next seen in our progress were Cucumbertree (Magnolia acuminata ), Striped Maple ( Acer pensylvanicum ), Common Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), Bushy Panic grass (Panicum dichotomum), Yellow Stargrass (Hypoxis hirsuta), Trailing Arbutus (Epigaea repens), Four-leaved Milkweed (Asclepias quadrifolia) and Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus) in bloom.Here three male Scarlet Tanagers (Piranga olivacea ) were observed at the same time.
Continuing onward, we saw the Tick Trefoil Desmodium glutinosum, Plume Lily (Smilacina racemosa ), Sweet White Violet (Viola blanda), Variable Panic Grass (Panicum commutatum), Round-leaf Pyrola (Pyrola rotundifolia ), the fungus Urnula craterium, somewhat stunted Mountain Oat Grass (Danthonia compressa) and Palmate-leaf Violet (Viola palmata).
We now entered an area of abundant Red Maple seedlings, Gall-of-the-Earth (Prenanthes sp), saw the only Spotted Wintergreen ( Chimaphila maculata) of the traverse and noted that Delicate Fern Moss (Thuidium delicatulum) appeared to be dominent among the large mosses.Also seen here were Wild Lily of the Valley (Convallaria montana ), a Clintonia (likely the white-flowered C. umbellulata ) scattered small sprouts of American Chestnut (Castanea dentata), abundant Rattlesnake Weed (Hieracium venosum ), Entire-leaved Yellow Foxglove (Aureolaria laevigata ) and a few stunted Christmas Ferns ( Polystichum acrostichoides). Here Black and Scarlet Oaks appeared to increase in frequency and were accompanied by scattered Hemlock.Then, as the trail approached more closely to the local stream, we saw the first Indian Cucumber-root (Medeola virginiana ) and heard the calls of a Phoebe (Saornis phoebe ) and a Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus ). Also appearing here were New York Fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis ), Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) in bloom, Wood Tickseed (Coreopsis major) and the first Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum ).These were followed by the vegetative remains of Wood Anemone (Anemone quinquefolia ), a single small American Holly (Ilex opaca ), then the first-noted Black Birch, Wild Sarsaparilla (Aralia nudicaulis), Hairy Disporum (Disporum lanuginosum) and on approaching near the stream, American Spikenard (Aralia racemosa), a single plant of Lovage (Ligusticum canadense) and a Black Vulture (Caragyps atratus ) soaring above the trees.As we advanced along the stream Great Rhododendron and Hemlock became more abundant.Associated species included Northern Red Oak, Great Chickweed (Stellaria pubera), White Clintonia and on rocks,Rock Fern (Polypodium virginianum ). Of interest here was the occurrence of Downy Many Knees (Polygonatum pubescens ) rather than the common P. biflorum. Here also we saw Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolius) and a Black and White Warbler (Mniotilta varia). Dicranum moss was conspicuous on rocks and was accompanied by Intermediate Shield Fern (Dryopteris intermedia ).Not far beyond these we encountered Interrupted Fern (Osmunda claytoniana ), Sweet-scented Bedstraw (Galium triflorum ), the sedge Carex appalachica, an inch-long blister beetle, Carrion Flower ( Smilax herbacea ), the fungus Polyporus badius and Mountain Bellwort (Uvularia pudica ).
We had now reached the vicinity of a trail-side shelter building (illegal in this designated wilderness?), beyond which we tallied Tall Agrimony (Agrimonia gryposepala ), Chestnut Oak and Pignut Hickory seedlings, Tuliptree, American Chestnut sprouts and Common Speedwell (Veronica officinalis ).
In our passage thus far Teaberry had been an almost constant component of the ground flora.Here it was joined by Pussytoes, probably the Plantain-leaf species (Antennaria plantaginifolia). Still following the stream, the trail again passed through vigrous Great Rhododendron with Mountain Bellwort, Creeping Five-leaf (Potentilla simplex/canadensis), Witch Hazel and the first-noted mature Chestnut Oak. Here also we were diverted by a Black-throated Blue Warbler (Dendroica caerulescens), and unexpectedly, by Southern Mountain Cranberry (Vaccinium erythrocarpum).
At this point the trail diverged to the left, away from the stream, while Polytrichum, Atrichum and Leucobryum mosses occupied the trail bank and blooming Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum ) was visible nearby. Here also we saw the first Downy Rattlesnake Plantain (Goodyera pubescens ), followed by Whorled Loosestrife (Lyssimachia quadrifolia ),a little Wrinkled-leaf Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa) and heard the song of an Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus). Next seen was a small Mountain Holly (Ilex montana ), more Creeping Five-leaf, then Bowmans Root (Gillenia t rifoliata ) and Hairy Woodmint (Blephilla hirsuta ).Now the trail turned sharply right and there was a distinct change to a richer, perhaps less acid, terrain, as indicated by the occurrence of Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa ),a single Spice Bush (Lindera benzoin), a stunted Horse Balm (Collinsonia canadensis ) and Hairy Hawkweed (Hieracium gronovii). Although Teaberry was not present here,Galax continued to be and was joined by Deer Berry. Also noted was the first mature Hickory seen, and in this case identified as Pignut (Carya glabra). It is likely that this change in the flora resulted from the presence of an underlying rock type richer in nutrients than that previously traversed.
As we approached the stream again, Teaberry reappeared, accompanied by Late Purple Aster (Aster patens), Plantain-leaf Pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia ), here in bloom, and a Black-throated Blue Warbler (Dendroica caerulescens). Near the stream Great Rhododendron again dominated the shrub layer under a canopy of Tuliptree,Red Maple and Hemlock, with Round-leaf Violet (Viola rotundifolia ) and White Clintonia, with the latter in full bloom.Keeping to the vicinity of the stream, the trail passed through a succession of more and less acidic communities that included the first-noted Wood Nettle (Laportea canadensis ),Canada Mayflower (Maianthemum canadense), here also in bloom near Great Rhododendron and abundant Witch Hazel, then New York and Christmas Ferns,Sweet White Violet,Hypnum moss, Maple-leaf Viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium ),considerable American Basswood, Northern Red Oak,Big-leaf Aster (Aster macrophyllus ),more Wild Sarsaparilla and Marginal Shield Fern (Dryopteris marginalis). The Golden Alexanders (Zizia t rifoliata ), which had appeared at intervals along the trail, was here joined by Hairy Disporum, Medeola and again abundant Wood Nettle.Following this there was an increase in Red Maple and Black Birch and the only Mountain Maple (Acer spicatum ) seen on our traverse. Still keeping to the stream, Black Birch remained prominent and was joined by vigerous shrubs of Smooth Gooseberry (Ribes rotundifolium ) and Red Elderberry (Sambucus pubens ), here with Wild Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens and Smooth Yellow Violet (Viola pensylvanica).
We had now entered an area of numerous very straight and tall young Tuliptrees with a dense undergrowth of Great Rhododendron, while on the trail bank grew Medeola, Wild Sarsaparilla,Downy Wood Violet (Viola sororia) and Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens). American Basswood was also frequent here,while smaller fauna and flora included an inch-broad living land snail, a bright yellowTremella fungus, Apple Moss (Bartramia pomiformis) and the moss Aulocomnium heterostichum..In our final observation we noted the forest grass Brachyelytrum erectum as we arrived at the stream crossing at an elevation of near 3000 feet (915 m) and terminated our May 1998 traverse.
Our traverse of 6-28-93 documented an increase in Chestnut and Scarlet Oaks, especially on convexities above 3000 feet asl. However at the highest elevations of the ridge summit these species were largely replaced by Northern Red Oak and, to a lesser degree,by White Oak, although some stunted Chestnut Oak and Black Gum were seen as well.Other species noted near the summit were still-blooming Flame Azalea,Mountain Holly, Mountain Laurel and blueberries of unrecorded species.The summit oaks had typical "orchard"forms and numerous Northern Red Oak seedlings formed the dominant ground cover in many places. Herbs included Canada Mayflower, Fly Poison (Amiantheum muscaetoxicum) in bloom, blooming Showy Skullcap (Scutellaria serrata), and a beautiful plant of Large Round-leaved Orchid (Habenaria orbiculata ), also in full bloom. Ovenbird calls were common during this ascent as well.
Wetlands at Interior
Source Walk: 9-22-96, clear, cool
Just east of Interior, Virginia, close by Stony Creek and Route 635, drainage from Big Mountain results in small streams and seeps and associated wetland communities. The Appalachian Trail lies less than a thousand feet (300 meters) to the west. Elevation at the wetlands is about 2400 ft (730 meters) asl and the general aspect is almost north. The substrate here is of colluvial origin from big Mountain as previously described (Rader et al, 1986).
The regional forest in the vicinity of the wetlands ranges in age from young to mature, with a canopy of Northern Red and White Oaks, Black Gum, Sassafras, White and Pitch Pines, Hemlock, Black Cherry and Tuliptree. Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) and American Holly (Ilex opaca), the latter to 20 ft. (6 meters) or more, occur as understory while Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum ), Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana ) and Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) dominate the shrub layer. Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens), Teaberry (Gaultheria procumbens ), Trailing Arbutus (Epigæa repens ), Spotted Wintergreen (Chimaphila maculata ), Heartleaf (Hexastylis virginicum) and Ground Pine (Lycopodium labelliforme) form a ground cover. In some places, as near or under Rhododendron, there is abundant Canada Mayflower (Maianthemum canadense ).
One of the wetlands is associated with a small stream that weaves its way under overhanging Canada Hemlock, Black Gum, Red Maple and White Ash and tall shrubs that include Great Rhododendron, Witch Hazel, Smooth Alder (Alnus serrulata ), Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum ), Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata), American Holly, Black Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis ) and a little Spice Bush (Lindera benzoin). A little Mountain Holly (Ilex montana) occurs on the bank which borders the stream’s narrow boggy floodplain. On this boggy flat Ground Berry (Rubus hispidus ) forms a cover with various herbs. Shining Clubmoss (Lycopodium lucidulum ), Ground Pine, New York Fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis ), Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea ), Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis ), the rarer Crested Fern (Dryopteris cristata) and Common Horsetail (Equisetum arvense ) represent non-flowering plants; Scirpus polyphyllus, Carex intumescens, C. gynandra, C. lurida, C. debilis, the sedges, and Juncus effusus and J. tenuis the rushes. Among widespread grasses such as Autumn Bent (Agrostis perennans) and the mannas (Glyceria melicaria and G. striata ) tall clumps of the disjunct northerner Drooping Wood Reedgrass (Cinna latifolia ) stood out. Bush Panic Grass (Panicum dichotomum ) and the forest grass Brachyelytrum erectum formed scattered clumps on the dryer periphery which they shared with Creeping Five-leaf (Potentilla simplex ) Sessile-leaved Bellwort (Uvularia sessilifolia) , Indian Cucumber-root (Medeola virginiana ), Whorled Loosestrife (Lysimachia quadrifolia) and a little Painted Trillium (Trillium undulatum). Adding diversity to wetter areas were Turtlehead (Chelone glabra), Northern Bugleweed (Lycopus uniflorus ), Mad-dog Skullcap (Scutellaria l ateriflora), Wrinkleed-leaf Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa ), Tear Thumb Vine (Polygonum sagittatum ), Northern White Violet (Viola pallens ), Roundleaf Violet (Viola rotundifolia), Virgin’s Bower (Clematis virginiana ), Cowbane (Oxypolis rigidior ), Crooked Stem Aster (Aster prenanthoides), Kidneyleaf Grass of Parnassus (Parnassia asarifolia) , Jewelweed (Impatiens sp.) and Small Green Wood Orchid (Habenarica clavellata ).
Immediately upstream from this plant community the stream flows through heavier woodland with much large woody debris. Here there is a copious growth of diverse mosses and liverworts including species of Sphagnum, Mnium, Dicranum and Fissidens, Thuidium delicatum, Atrichum crispum and Bazzania.
Incidental signs of fauna observed in this wetland were large Crayfish castings, colorful solitary bees, a Meadow Vole (likely Microtus pennsylvanicus ) and a Red-spotted Purple Butterfly (Limenitis arthemis, astyanax).
The second wetland, a seep, lies just to the east of the first. This wetland is more open and made conspicuous by its stands of large Cinnamon Ferns. It is recommended as a Special Interest Area, Biological, by the Virginia Natural Heritage Program. Although it is quite open, it is rich in shrubs, including Smooth Alder[2], Glade St. Johnswort (Hypericum densiflorum ), Mountain Laurel, Maleberry (Lyonia ligustrina ), Southern Mountain Cranberry (Vaccinium erthrocarpum ), Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum ), Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia ), Wild Raisin (Viburnum cassinoides ), Hardhack (Spiræa tomentosa), Witch Hazel, Silky Dogwood, Winterberry and American Hollys. Tall Pitch Pines and other trees border the seep area. Curiously, a single Virginia Juniper (Juniperus virginiana ) also grew here, but near the road, and possibly under its influence. Where the boggy surface is more open to the sky it is largely covered by Sphagnum moss and Ground Berry. Trailing Arbutus and Roundleaf Pyrola (Pyrola rotundifolia) occupy hummocks under shrubs.
Three plants that were conspicuous over the open bog were Tawny Cotton Sedge (Eriophorum virginicum), tall Bushy Bluestem grass (Andropogon glomeratus ) and Nodding Lady’s Tresses (Spiranthes cernua ), with the latter electrifying the openings with its evenly spaced spikes of white blooms. But perhaps the greatest botanical interest here is in two disjunct clubmosses, Lycopodium alopecuroides, a coastal plain species, and Bog Clubmoss (L. inundatum ), a native of boreal bogs. Both species occur as separate patches several square meters in area in the open bog. Sedges and rushes found here were Carex lurida, C. intumescens, Scirpus cyperinus, the beakrush Rhychospora capitellata, Juncus subcaudatis, J. marginatus and J. effusus;, as well as the grass Panicum dichotomum var barbulatum. While Turtlehead and Kidneyleaf Grass of Parnassus also occur, a new assemblage of wetland herbs not observed in the more shaded first wetland adds further interest. These are Flat-Top White Aster (Aster umbellatus), Calico Aster (Aster lateriflorus ), Common Joe-pye Weed (Eupatorium fistulosum ), Boneset (E. perfoliatum), Hairy Thoroughwart (E. rotundifolium), Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus ), Tasslerue (Trautvetteria caroliniensis ), Seedbox (Ludwigia alternifolia ), Marsh St. Johnswort (Hypericum virginicum ), Canadian St. Johnswort (H. canadense ), Ridged Yellow Flax (Linum striatum ), Rough Bedstraw (Galium asprellum ), Yellow Fringed Orchid (Habenaria ciliaris ) and Round-leaved Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia ).
As in the first wetland, large crayfish castings were abundant here. New faunal elements were swarms of non-biting gnats, a Pearl Crescent Butterfly (Phyciodes tharos ) and abundant bumblebees patronizing flowers in the sun.
Clearly the environment of these two inventoried wetlands is decidedly acidic, as is the enveloping upland forest. Nutrient availability also appears somewhat limited, although a fairly rich flora -especially of shrubs- has developed. Those conditions are likely the result of the large synclinal structure of Big Mountain which has isolated the Ordovician limestones and perhaps even the Silurian Tonoloway limestone from exposure in the colluvial deposits that form the substrate. However some rocks of intermediate nutrient content such as the Devonian Huntersville Formation may have been accessed by these deposits, accounting for such diversity as exists here.
Interior / Cherokee Flats
Source walks: 5-11-98 and 5-12-98
This location is very near-borders on-the two Interior wetlands previously discussed. It includes particularily the flat floodplain area of the south side of Stony Creek. Weather on the evening of arrival (5-11-98) was extraordinarily cool compared to the that of the Little Stony Creek Valley from which we had come, and the leafing-out was retarded compared to that at the latter location.However the number of bird calls, and especially of Wood Thrush in the evening, was striking. Some warming occurred during the night however.No night birds were heard.
The area of interest is dominated by a canopy of tall White and Pitch Pines, Hemlock, Red Maple, Black Oak, Black Birch, Beech, Black Gum, Tuliptree andWhite Oak, with an understory and shrub layers of Sourwood, Serviceberry (possibly both Amelanchier arborea and A.laevis ), abundant Great Rhododendron, American Holly and Mountain Laurel.A shrub of Black Haw Viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium) in full bloom near the road may have been influenced by road gravel lime.The entire area is under an acid regime, in this area acid-mesic and acid-hydric, and the ground flora reflects this. A dominent herb under Rhododendron was Canada Mayflower and there was an unusual occurrence, in a wet area of a springbrook under Rhododendron, of Wild Lily of the Valley (Convallaria montana ), then in bloom.Other herbs noted were Wood Anemone (Anemone quinquefolia), also in bloom, and Kidneytleaf Grass of Parnassus.
On the morning of 5-12-98, birds of many kinds were evident. These included Wood Thrush, Towhee, Red-eyed Vireo, Northern Water Thrush (Seiurus noveboracensis) and Blackburnian, Chestnut-sided,Black and White and Parula Warblers (Dendroica fusca, D. pensylvanica, Mniotilta varia and Parula americana).. An aggressive Spring Peeper called loudly nearby as we observed the Northern Water Thrush.
5-12-98 was also trout stocking day with fishermen following the truck!
North Fork of Stony Creek
Source Walk: 10-5-96: Clear, cool.
The North Fork of Stony Creek lies in a high valley between Fork and Peters Mountains and heads on the Monroe County line. It may be reached by State Route 613 and Forest Road 945 from Route 635 through a high wind gap in Fork Mountain. Silurian and Devonian sandstones dominate the terrain. However much of the North Fork valley is underlain by unconsolidated colluvium consisting of sands, gravels and talus. Elevations along the stream lie between 2950 and 3000 ft (900 and 915 meters) asl.
At the ford of FR 945 on the North Fork there is a beautiful stand of mature Hemlock and White Pine but upstream Red Maple, White Oak and Black Gum are more common on the bottomland. Understory trees include Smooth Serviceberry (Amelanchier lævis) and abundant Mountain Holly. Great Rhododendron is by far the most abundant shrub but Mountain Laurel, Witch Hazel (in bloom) and Wild Raisin also occur. Groundberry is a common ground cover in moist areas. Herbs are neither abundant nor diverse but are concentrated in openings. They include Cinnamon, New York and Hay- scented Ferns and a little Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) ; the sedges Carex intumescens, C. baileyi, C. lurida, C. gynandra andScirpus cyperinus; the rushes Juncus effusus and J. subcaudatis, the grass Panicum boscii, Sweet White Violet (Viola blanda ) and Kidneyleaf Grass of Parnassus (in seed). In shaded, dryer areas there is a little Teaberry and Partridge Berry. Sphagnum moss occurs in the wettest areas but species of Polytrichum, Atrichum, Dicranum, Leucobryum and Hypnum and Thuidium delicatulum are all common, especially under Hemlock. Associated fungi were Næmatoloma fasciculare, N. sublateritum and species of Russula.. Birds observed were Chickadees (Parus sp), Juncos (Junco hyemalis), Ravens ( Corvus corax) and Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata ), as well as unidentified callers. An unidentified Angle Wing Butterfly was seen. Only water striders were observed in the stream, which however, was not examined closely for aquatic life.
After fording the stream,a traverse was made to the northwest along Forest Route 1503, which lies at the base of Peters Mountain and parallels the stream. The length of this traverse was about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) at elevations ranging from 3100 ft to 3200 ft (945 to 975 meters) asl. Along the first half of the traverse the canopy appears to be dominated by Scarlet and Black Oak with visible Black Oak seedlings. White and Northern Red Oaks are also important components, while Red Maple, Black Gum, Pitch Pine and White Pine are subordinate. Only two Tuliptrees were seen.Canada Hemlock is common in the understory which also contains American Chestnut sprouts, Sassafras, both Amelanchier arborea and A. lævis and abundant Mountain Holly. Great Rhododendron dominates the shrub layer but Mountain Laurel, Upland Low Blueberry, and Black Huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata) also occur. Only a few Striped Maple and Chestnut Oak were seen.
Although most of the traverse is through dry forest, the presence of Great Rhododendron seems to point to ample subsurface water and several small seeps and streamlets occur at intervals. Herbs and ground cover in the dry forest were the familiar Trailing Arbutus, Teaberry, Four-leaved Yam, Mountain Bellwort, Mountain Oat Grass, Rattlesnake Weed, Whorled Loosestrife, Hairy Angelica (Angelica venenosa ), Galax, Tree Clubmoss (Lycopodium obscurum ), Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum ), New York and Hay-scented Ferns. A single plant of Devils Bit (Chamælirium luteum ) was seen. A constant feature also, as at other high elevations in such forests at this season, was a scattering of individual blooms of Soapwort Gentian (Gentiana saponaria ). While mosses were not conspicuous here, the usual Leucobryum cushions at tree bases were of common occurrence.
In the few seeps which occur in this section there are small colonies of Northern Bugleweed, Spikerush (Eleocharis sp.), Ridged Yellow Flax and Clammy Hedge-hyssop (Gratiola neglecta ), a little Marginal Shield Fern (Dryopteris marginalis ), Cinnamon Fern and the haircap moss Polytrichium commune. Partridge Berry occurs in more shaded spots. Lactarius atroviridis was an identified fungus.
Along the second part of the traverse Northern Red Oak appeared to increase in the canopy and as seedlings, although the other oaks also continued to be common. Here also, Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata) was noted for the first time, while Hemlock increased in the understory. Great Rhododendron continued to dominate the shrub layer. The several small streams that cross the road are marked by heavy growths of Great Rhododendron and associated Turtlehead, Mountain Aster (Aster acuminatus ), Indian Cucumber-root and Ground Pine. Round-leaf Pyrola, Wild Indigo (Baptisia t inctoria ) and Sweet Goldenrod (Solidago odora) were added to our herb tally in the dry forest. Macrolichens were moderatedly abundant here, with Usnea conspicuous on Scarlet Oak and Lobaria pulmonaria on Red Maple. The lower trunk and roots of a large White Oak supported a heavy cover of Rhodobryum roseum and other mosses.
After reaching the end of FR 1503,the traverse was extended southeast and downslope toward the stream, passing through an area of small White Pine and hardwoods, perhaps marking a former clearcut. Here, curiously, in fairly deep shade, a large bush of Deer Berry (Vaccinium stamineum ) favored us with its large green but tasty berries. Beyond this point an opening in the canopy over a dense tangle of Great Rhododendron and Winterberry Holly revealed a beaver meadow studded by large standing and down snags. The meadow, perhaps several acres in area, was rimmed by tall living Pitch Pines and brilliantly colored Red Maple. Below an old beaver dam the steam cut through the meadow under vertical banks of white sand in an open bog. While most of the standing and down snags appeared to be Hemlock, a 16 inch (41 cm) Chestnut Oak showed signs of Beaver teeth.
The dominant cover of the bog surface was a dense mat of Sphagnum and Groundberry with subordinate but tall haircap moss (Polytrichum sp.). Herbs were neither diverse nor abundant, with scattered Hay-scented Fern, a likely white violet (Viola sp), the Fireweed Erechtities hieracifolia, the sedges and rushes Scirpus cyperinus, Carex gynandra, C. intumescens and Juncus subcaudatis. Grasses were limited to a little Autumn Bent and a few tall clumps of Rattlesnake Manna Grass (Glyceria canadensis.) Large conks of the fungus Ganoderma t sugae on dead Hemlock and an unusual moss, a species of Neckera, on down wood, added interest.
Although not seen in this traverse, the Virginia Natural Heritage program ( Erdlie et al, 1996) reported an occurrence of Bog Clubmoss in a beaver meadow in the area. They also identified two species of Sphagnum:, S. quinquefarium and S. rubellum.. However these could not be confirmed by us given the available resources.
Faunal sightings, sounds and signs were sparse and little investigated during the traverse. Calls of Gray Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis ) were heard. A Black-throated Blue Warbler (Dendroica cærulescens) and a colorful Angle-wing Butterfly were seen in the upland forest, but the beaver meadow bog yielded only an Eft of the Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) in a bog pool.
Both the upland forest and the Beaver meadow encountered on this traverse seem remarkable in terms of their apparent soil acidity, lack of nutrients and resulting low biological diversity. Ultimately these conditions are likely to follow from the highly siliceous substrate which apparently prevails in the area. Another feature that should be noted is the low gradient of this valley below extensive high mountain slopes. These conditions should encourage the accumulation of cold air, especially during the early growing season, creating conditions favorable for northern disjuncts such as the reported Bog Clubmoss and the Rattlesnake Manna Grass seen by us.
Fungi identified on this traverse by R. Hunsucker are as follows:
Amanita citrina
A. Virosa
A. fulva
A> pantherina
Naematoloma sublateritum
N. udum/dispersum group
N. fasciculare
N. udum/dispersum group in Sphagnum
Ganoderma tsugae - in bog
G. applanatum - edge of bog
Pholiota mutabilis
Stereum ostrea
S. complicatum
Trametes versicolor
Xerula furfuracea
Tricholoma auranticum
T. resplendens group
T. partentosum
T. pessundatum group
Ramaria sp
Psathyrella hydrophylla - edge of bog on dead wood
Mycena galericulata
Leotia viscosa
Agrocybe erebia group
Entoloma sp
Trichaptum biformis
Calostoma cinnabarina
Suillus granulatus
S. luteus
Tyromyces caesius
Inonotus hispidus - edge of bog on American Chestnut Snag
I. tomentosus
Hydnum repandum
Cystoderma granulosum
Hebeloma crustuliforme
Armillariella mellea
Lactarius atroviridis
Lycoperdon pyriforme
L. perlatum
Tremellodendron sp
Tyromyces fragilis complex - on Pitch Pine snag at edge of bog
White Rocks Branch and Virginia Walk Trail
Source Walks: 7-4-92, 6-16-93 and 10-6-96
This branch of Stony Creek rises on the slopes of Little and Potts Mountains on the edge of the Mountain Lake Wilderness. Colluvial deposits are important here also, and it is likely that they contain carbonate components contributed by the undifferentiated Ordovician Reedsville, Eggleston and Moccasin Formations that are exposed upslope on Potts Mountain and thus can exert their influence on the stream.nal
A wetland that lies along the stream just northeast of the White Rocks Campground as well as the surrounding upland forest provide interesting comparisons with the two areas discussed previously. The wetland, which lies at an elevation a little below 3000 ft (910 mters) asl, is crossed by the Virginia Walk Trail which forms a closed loop through the upland forest to an elevation of about 3100 ft (940 meters).
The inventories that were done on 7-4-92 and 6-16-93 were very cursory compared to that done on 10-6-96 but provided some seasonally significant information. Weather on all three occasions was seasonable. However that on 10-6-96 provided an opportunity to note the effect of elevation. Temperatures here were markedly cooler than those experienced at the Steel Bridge Campground at 1700 ft (520 meters) elevation on the same day.
The upland forest that borders the wetland on the south is secondary but mature, with a canopy dominated by apparently Adelgid-free Hemlock. Codominants are White, Northern Red and Chestnut Oaks, Black Gum, Tuliptree, Cucumber Tree, Yellow and Black Birches, Red and Sugar Maples, White Pine and Black Cherry. Mountain Holly is abundant in the understory, which also contains Striped Maple, Serviceberry and Fire Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica ). Great Rhododendron is abundant near the stream and Common Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia ) was the only vine noted. Partridge Berry and some Spotted Wintergreen occurred under Hemlock,where abundant Canada Mayflower was also in evidence on the May and June visits. None of the latter was observed in October however, it presumably having gone dormant by then. However at that time large Sulfur-Shelf or Chicken of the Woods Fungi (Polyporus sulphureus ) and Honey Mushrooms (Armillariella mellea ) were observed on large stumps in the area.
The wetland along the stream is shrub swamp for the most part, but there are grass and sedge covered openings. Smooth Alder is the most abundant shrub but Hardhack (Spiraea tomentosa), Winterberry Holly, Maleberry, Highbush Blueberry, Silky Dogwood, Mountain Laurel and Spice Bush were also observed. Scattered Red Maple rise above the shrubs and Canada Hemlock saplings intrude from the south. Tall Cinnamon and Royal (Osmunda regalis ) Ferns are conspicuous, but New York, Christmas and Lady Fern also occur. Where the shrub layer is interrupted, as in places along the stream, sedges, rushes and grasses form a heavy growth. Identified were Carex lurida, C. gynandra, Scirpus polyphyllus (with conspicuous vegetative reproduction),S. cyperinus, Juncus effusus,J. t enuis, the Spike Rush Eleocharis obtusa, the manna grasses Glyceria striata and G. melicaria, Deer-tongue Grass (Panicum clandestinum ), Bushy Panic Grass (P. dichotomum ), Rice Cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides ), Autumn Bent Grass and Drooping Wood Reedgrass. Scattered among these and in more shaded areas were Tasslerue, Turtlehead, SpottedJewelweed (Impatiens capensis ), Northern Bugleweed, Arrowleaf Tearthumb, Calico Aster, a Willow-herb (Epilobium sp.), New York Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis ), Small-flowered St. Johnswort (Hypericum mutilum ), Virgin’s Bower, a Violet (Viola sp.), Wrinkle-leaf Goldenrod,Kidneyleaf Grass of Parnassus, Upright Yellow Wood Sorrel (Oxalis stricta ), Rough Bedstraw, False Pimpernel (Lindernia dubia ), Tickseed (Bidens autumnale ), Foam Flower (Tiarella cordifolia), Square-stemmed Monkey-flower (Mimulus ringens ) and Tall Meadowrue (Thalictrum polygamum ). While Sphagnum moss is not common, some is associated with patches of Ground Berry. Water Starwort (Callitriche heterophylla ) and a Fontinalis moss occur in the stream, while other mosses, including species of Atrichum, as well as thallus liverworts, grow along the bank in moist spots.
The impression here is of overall floral richness, although many species,prominent early in the season but not recorded in the first two visits, were probably dormant in October. This impression of richness extends to the fauna as evidenced particularly in the May and June visits when Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa ), Red-Shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus), Barred Owls, Scarlet Tanagers, Vireos, Wood Thrushes and a male Diana Butterfly (Speyeria diana ) as well as unidentified species, were recorded in the wetland and the adjoining forest. Even on the cold 10-6-96 visit,birds, including migrant thrushes, Red-bellied Woodpeckers (Melanerpes carolinus ) and a number of unknowns, as well as abundant fish in the stream, attracted our attention. Of particular interest on the October, 1996 visit were large white woolly aphids on the Smooth Alder. These consisted of several forms, including large adults, whose cone-shaped abdomens showed stripes of white wool, tiny immature forms on the bodies of adults and winged forms. The adults appeared to contain or excrete a highly staining purple fluid.
After our wetland inventory a clockwise traverse was made around the Virginia Walk Trail, which is of the order of a mile (1.6 km) in length. The first section of the trail follows along the base of Little Mountain up-valley from the campground. The aspect here is south and the canopy is dominated by Scarlet, Black, Northern Red and White Oaks, with lesser amounts of Chestnut Oaks, Red Maple, Black Gum, Black Birch, Black Locust, Tuliptree, Black Cherry, Pignut Hickory (including Carya glabra ), Cucumber Tree, and Pitch Pine. The understory consists of Downy Serviceberry, Striped Maple, Flowering Dogwood, abundant Sourwood, Hemlock and American Chestnut sprouts. There is also some Hawthorn (Cratægus ) of undetermined species. Deer Berry, Mountain Laurel, Upland Low Blueberry, Witch Hazel, Great Rhododendron, Maple-leaf Viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium), Pasture Rose (Rosa carolina ) and Blackberries (Rubus ) of undetermined species form a shrub layer. While not abundant, herbs, a mix of acid-soil and generalist species, included Mountain Oat Grass (mostly on the trail), Mountain Bellwort, Wood Tickseed (Coreoposis major), Indian Pipe (Monotropa uniflora), Four-leaved Yam, Indian Cucumber-root, Soapwort Gentian (in bloom), Galax, Common Speedwell, Creeping Five-leaf, Cowbane (in seeps), Christmas, Cinnamon and Hay-scented Ferns, Ebony Spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron ), Nodding Fescue (Festuca obtusa ), the panic grass Panicum boscii, the forest grass Brachyelytrum erectum, the woodrush Luzula echinata, Smooth-Forked Chickweed (Paronchia canadensis ), Wild Sage (Salvia lyrata ), Dotted St. Johns-wort (Hypericum punctatum ) and Sweet-scented Bedstraw (Galium triflorum) . Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa ) and Hog Peanut (Amphicarpa bracteata ) occur in a few richer soil areas. Fern Moss (likelyThuidium delicatulum ) seemed to dominate the larger mosses, and the familiar red crustose lichens were conspicuous on red oak group trees.
On the second leg of the traverse the trail turns south toward the stream. On approaching the stream the character of the forest changes drastically with the canopy now dominated by Hemlock, Red Maple and Yellow and Black Birches. Great Rhododendron is the dominant shrub and the first and only Black Haw Viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium) was encountered. White Wood and Crooked-stem Asters, Tall Cone Flower (Rudbeckia laciniata ), Turtlehead, Partridge Berry, Glyceria melicaria, Kidneyleaf Grass of Parnassus, and the remains of Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus ) occupied the black organic soil along the stream and beneath the trees. Although time did not permit close attention to them, a community of beautiful and luxuriant mosses occupied the banks and environs of the stream crossing. In addition to unidentified species of Sphagnum and Mnium in moist areas, the stream also contained the Fontinalis reported earlier.
After leaving the stream area, the trail climbs a gentle slope of northern aspect, but through an increasingly ericaceous forest with abundant Galax, Teaberry, Rattlesnake Plantain and Round-leaved Pyrola under Scarlet and Black Oaks. A characteristic noted here was the close resemblance in leaf shape and bark of these two oaks which in some cases could be distinguished only by carefully noting the character of the buds, leaf hair and texture.
Presently, however, the trail entered a region of rocky ravines with small rapidly flowing streams. Striped Maple became more abundant and an unidentified Azalea (Rhododendron sp.) and a Clintonia were noted. As the trail turned west a number of these ravines and streams were crossed and the increasingly mesic forest on this northern aspect was emphasized by the abundant Black and Yellow Birch, Red Maple and Tuliptree, with Hemlock in the understory. White Ash seedlings were abundant here as well. Among the ground cover were Marginal Shield Fern, Round-leaf and Northern White Violets, Miterwort (Mitella diphylla ) and Drooping Wood Reedgrass, while Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata ), Pennsylvania Bittercress (Cardamine pensylvanica ) and Lettuce Saxifrage (Saxifraga micranthidifolia ) occupied the streams and adjacent moist areas. Although not observed on the 10-6-96 visit, presumably because it was dormant, White Hellebore (Veratrum viride ) was prominent in the vicinity of these streams on the earlier May and June visits. A survey of mosses and liverworts, which thrive in these damp ravines, included Mnium cuspidatum, M. hornum, Dicranum scorparium, species of Atrichum, Polytrichum, Hypnum and Campylium, Porela platyphylloides and Bazzania trilobata..
After passing through the area of ravines the trail again leads through dry forest on a gentle westward-facing slope. On this section, which approaches the Campground at elevations near 3100 ft (945 meters) elevation, there is an impression of increased abundance of Mountain Holly and Sourwood in the understory.
In the observed sequence of environmental types both the White Rock wetland and the surrounding upland forest appear to be the least acidic and most nutrient-rich. In this sequence the North Fork area certainly qualifies as the most acid and nutrient-poor, while the Interior wetlands area and associated upland forest seem to fall between the others. Although elevational effects appear to be present in the relative abundance of Mountain Holly and a few other species at the three areas, the effect of cold air accumulation and the bog environment in mimicking elevation is also shown by such northern species as Canada Mayflower and Drooping Wood Reedgrass at the Interior wetland. It is interesting to compare the latter with species that occur at the Steel Bridge Campground (see our section on Potts Mountain), which is located on the valley flat along Potts Creek, also beneath the high slopes of Peeters and Potts Mountains, but at an elevation 700 feet (214 m) lower than the Interior wetlands. No markedly boreal species were found by us at Steel Bridge, where the south-ranging Wood Reedgrass (Cinna arundiancea) rather than Drooping Wood Reedgrass occurs.
Fungi collected on the 10-6-96 traverse and identified by R. Hunsucker were the following:
Omphalotus olearius (Jack- O'Lantern)
Polyporus sulphureus (Chicken of the Woods)
Armillariella mellea (Honey Mushroom)
Panellus stipticus
Naematoloma sublateritium
N. dispersum
Tricholoma sejunctum
T. virgatum
Coprinus micacens
C. comatus
Collybia confluens
Hydnum repandum
Hericium coralloides
H. americanum (waterfall or Bear's Head)
Cerrena unicolor - algae-covered above
Rozites caperata
Lycoperdon perlatum
L. pyriforme
Phaeocollybia rufiper
Daedaliopsis confragosa
D. sp
Irpex lacteus
Trichaptum biforme
Trametes versicolor
Ganoderma applanatum
Fomes fomentarius (Hoof Fungus)
Stereum ostrea
S. complicatum
Pholiota uralicola
Return to White Rocks: 7-11-97, 7-12-97 and 7-13-9
Here we recount a breif inventory of the campground area and wetland, somewhat more detailed ones for four sites along Forest Road 645 and State Route 613 and for one site farther west along FR 734.
A spot re- inventory of the upland forest at Campsite 29 yielded Scarlet Oak, Northern Red Oak, Yellow Birch, Sassafras, Canada Hemlock, White Oak, Black Locust, Black Birch, White Ash, Black Cherry, Red Maple, Striped Maple, Great Rhododendron, Witch Hazel, Deer Berry, abundant Canada Mayflower and a little Large Twayblade Orchid (Liparis lilifolia). Rhododendron was in full bloom, as was Groundberry (Rubus hispidus) in the wetland. The large size of the latter's flowers seemed somewhat anomalous. Also noted for the first time in the wetland were Velvet Grass (Holcus lanatus) and Small-fruted Panic Grass (Panicum microcarpon). A Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica) was seen at the campground during the day, a Red Squirrel (Tamiascrurus hudsonicus) entered a vehicle to steal food and Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina) were heard at sundown. An aquatic insect, quite small, was seen to strike the water surface repeatedly, perhaps in an egg-laying motion, while doing an aerial dance above the stream. Also noted here were small water striders. In the evening of 7-12-97 a Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) was heard in the swamp and Barred Owls (Strix varia) regaled us with a variety of calls each night.
The first of our spot inventories on 7-13-97 along FR 645 was conducted just west of the campground entrance at an elevation of close to 3000 feet (915 m) asl. The slope here is gentle with a north aspect. The mature canopy consists of White Oak, Northern Red Oak, Red and sugar Maples, Tuliptree, Shagbark and Pignut Hickories, Black Birch and Canada Hemlock. It is likely that this forest had been thinned by the Forest Service. Although no real understory was present, Striped Maple, Witch Hazel, Maple-leaf Viburnum and a gooseberry ( Ribes sp) occurred in the open forest.A Carex, almost certainly Carex gracillima-- although with a quite hairy perigynia- was very abundant. Other herbs were Black Cohosh, Downy Rattlesnake Plantain, Mealy Bellwort, Sessil-leaved Bellwort, Wild Geranium, Hog Peanut, Sweet-scented Bedstraw, Bushy Panic Grass, Rattlesnake Fern, Christmas Fern, Lance-leaved Wild Liquorice, Purple Bedstraw, (seeds were present on both of the last two species) Foam Flower, abundant New York Fern in openings, Interrupted Fern, Dotted St. Johns-wort, Great Chickweed, Creeping Five-leaf ( probably Potentilla simplex), Round-leaf Violet, Hairy Angelica, Indian Turnip, Blood Root, Spotted Wintergreen, Tree Clubmoss, Saw Brier, unidentified species of Carex and abundant Delicate Fern Moss. Red-eyed Vireos called and a loud drummer, perhaps a Pileated Woodpecker, was heard.An interesting beetle, near a cm in length,with amber wing covers, each bearing widely separated black patches, was observed clustered on oak seedlings. This beetle had also been observed in other widely separated parts of the Central Appalachians.
The presence here of Sugar Maple and a generally more diverse and mesic ground flora than recorded previously for upland forest in the Watershed, may be related to the exposures of Ordovician limestones on upper slopes of Potts Mountain, and which could influence the colluvial deposits on which this forest lies.
The site of the next spot inventory is approximately 1/2 mile (0.8 km) west of the first at an elevation of 2950 feet (890 m) asl. It is on a steeper north-facing slope just south of the road. The young to mature canopy consists of Red and Sugar Maples, Pignut Hickory, Tuliptree, Black and White Oaks and Canada Hemlock. Striped Maple and Hawthorn (Crataegus sp) form an understory and Witch Hazel, Upland Low Blueberry and Gooseberry ( Ribes sp) shrub layers. Conspicuous elements of the ground flora were Ground Pine and Roundleaf Pyrola (in bloom), particularily under Hemlock. Other herbs were Christmas Fern, Downy Solomons Seal or Many Knees (Polygonatum pubescens), Spotted Wintergreen, Creeping Five-leaf, Large Twayblade Orchid, Carex gracillima, Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) , Lance-leaved Wild Liquorice, ebony Spleenwort and Canada Mayflower. As at the last site, Saw Brier was the characteristic vine on this acid soil. Although fungi were not common, Scarlet Cup (Sarcoscypha coccinea) was conspicuous and coral fungi were also present. The environment here appears to be decidedly moister and somewhat more acidic than at the first inventory site. This is probably attributable to the steeper, more shaded slope. Herbs also are far less diverse, again reflecting the deeper shade and more closed canopy.
The third spot inventory was conducted at the junction of FR 645 and Rt 613 at an elevation of about 2900 feet (870 m) asl on a slope with a west aspect. The canopy at this site is dominated by large Northern Red Oak with associated Tuliptree, Red and Sugar Maples, Cucumbertree and Canada Hemlock. Understory and shrub layers consist of American Chestnut sprouts, Striped Maple, Flowering Dogwood, serviceberry, Sourwood, Witch Hazel, Great Rhododendron and Upland Low Blueberry. Abundant Northern Red Oak, fewer Chestnut Oak, scattered Scarlet Oak and unidentified Azalea seedlings were present. Here also Saw Brier was the only vine seen. Ground cover included abundant Canada Mayflower, Wild Sarsaparilla, a Disporum (Likely D. lanuginosum ), Christmas, Hay-scented and New York Ferns, Roundleaf and unidentified violets, Squaw Root, Four-leaved Yam and a possible Melanthium. A Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris ) was also seen.
The site of our fourth spot inventory was the junction of FR 734 and Rt 613, where the latter turns sharply east up the mountain. A bench mark here marks an elevation of 3159 feet (963 m ) asl. As at the previously inventoried site. the canopy is dominated by Northern Red Oak, with Red and Sugar Maples, White Ash, Pignut Hickory, Chestnut Oak and a little Cucumbertree. Birch saplings appeared to be Black Birch. Sourwood, Striped Maple and Flowering Dogwood constituted an understory. Northern Red Oak seedlings were common and an unidentified blueberry (probably Upland Low) was present as well. Herbs included abundant Wild Sarsaparilla, Roundleaf Violet, a disporum, a single plant of Large Round-leaved Orchid (Habenaria orbiculata), possible Wild Lily- of- the- valley (Convallaria montana), Canada Mayflower, Downy Rattlesnake Plantain, Mountain Bellwort and Leucobryum cushion moss. Underbrush and small trees were quite abundant- perhaps due to previous thinning- suppressing the herb flora. Scarlet Tanagers were heard.
Our last inventory, a brief one, was conducted along FR 734, perhaps 1.5 mile (2.4 km) southwest of the junction with Rt 613. Elevation here is near 3250 feet (991 m) asl and the aspect northwest. The canopy consisted of rather young Sugar Maple, Beech Pignut and Shagbark Hickories, White Ash, Northern Red Oak and Cucumbertree, with Striped Maple in the understory. Sugar Maple was most abundant, followed by Beech. This forest was quite open, but herbs were sparse and limited to Black Cohosh, Blue Cohosh, New York Fern and Clearweed, with the last-named on a large block of conglomerate. Red-eyed Vireos called.
________________________
1. Most of the geologic information of this section is taken from the Geologic Map of Giles County, Virginia (Rader et al, 1986)
2. Only common names are given for species previously encountered in these wetlands.
References
Adams, Harold S. and Steven L. Stephenson. 1983. A Description of Vegetation on the South Slope of Peters Mountain, Southwest Virginia. Bull. of the Torrey Bot. Club. 110 (1), 18-22.
Erdlie, S. Y., L. R. Smith and D. K. Howarth, 1996, Virginia Natural Heritage Tech. Rept. 96-14, Div.of Natural Heritage, Richmond, Va.
Rader, E. K. and T. M. Gathright II, editors, 1986, Geologic Map of Giles County, Virginia, Virginia Div. of Mineral Resources, Charlottesville, Va.
[1] Most of the geologic information of this section is taken from the Geologic Map of Giles County, Virginia (Rader et al, 1986).
[2]Only common names are given for species previously encountered in these wetlands.