FIELD TRIP – St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve

Join us at St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve for a day of exploring a natural coastal landscape. The dune/swale system formed by sand dunes in St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve, created during ancient changes in sea level, is one of the most stable and clearly defined of such topographic features found anywhere. The Preserve also has one of the highest concentrations of rare plants in the southeastern United States, including globally imperiled species. It’s possible we will see Telephus spurge (Euphorbia telephioides), Pinewoods aster (Aster spinulosus), Henry’s spider lily (Hymenocallis henryae) , Drummonds yelloweyed grass (Xyris drummondii), Southern milkweed (Asclepias viridula), Pine lily (Lilium catesbaei), White birds-in-a-nest (Macbridea alba) and more.

Friends of St. Joseph Bay Preserves will host a brief talk at the visitor’s center. Then participants will board the tram and travel into the preserve, with a focus on areas of recent spring burns. The tram will stop at different sites so participants can explore them up close.

Fire has occurred on buffer lands for thousands of years, with planned fire regimes dating back to the 1700s. This helps shape natural communities and aids in their adaptability to wildfires. This is especially true for the rare plants found within the Buffer Preserve. Without fire, shrubs take over the understory, blocking sunlight and prohibiting herbaceous plants to grow.

Expect to hike up to 3 miles in sandy, sunny and possibly muddy and rough terrain. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks/lunch, and bug spray. Bathroom facilities are located only at the visitor’s center. Cell service is unreliable.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Saturday, June 8th, 10am EST