MNPS Field Trip: Wild Washington - Oxon Run Bog (Sunday)

Sponsoring Organization: Maryland Native Plant Society

149th walk in the Wild Washington- Forts series

We will return to the wonderful vegetation of Oxon Run Bog.  Though not a Civil War Fort this is a magnolia bog below a terrace gravel formation (like the upland Fort sites).

“Acidic and mossy seeps, magnolia bogs occur only below gravel terraces of the inner mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain. Closely associated with terrace gravel forests, these wetlands usually occupy less than an acre on slopes comprised of soils deposited millions of years ago by the Potomac River. Water infiltration and leaching has left the soils acidic and free of the organic materials that characterize true peat bogs. When water percolates from the upland sands and gravels over an impervious layer of clay, downward flow is prevented, and moisture is directed out of the hillside. This hydro-geology creates optimal conditions for bog formation.” National Park Service

Please be warned this is far from a moderate walk. This is a trail-less site with difficult and thickly vegetated terrain. We will walk in wet areas.

Leaders: Jim Rosenstock, Allen Browne, Claudine Lebeau

FREE

Notes: Uneven and wet ground.

Bring: Lunch and water.  Wear appropriate shoes and clothing.   You may want to have bug spray.

Cancellation Policy: Cancelled if raining, but call Claudine  Lebeau at 240 472 2803 Sunday morning before 9:00 AM if in doubt.

Contact: (for additional information; not to register) Claudine Lebeau at Claudine_l_lebeau@yahoo.com

Directions: In Southeast Washington DC, we will meet on the upper parking deck of the Southern Avenue Metro Station which is on the Metro Green Line. If you drive, parking is abundant there and free on Sunday.