CALVERTON PONDS PRESERVE

Denis and Catherine Krusos Ecological Research Area
Calverton
Suffolk County, NY
350 Acres
Coastal Plain Ponds, Pine Barrens

A 350-acre assemblage of Pine Barrens and Coastal Plain Ponds comprises one of the rarest and most fragile wetland ecosystems in North America.  The preserve is cooperatively owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy and Suffolk County Parks. Calverton Ponds and the headwaters of the Peconic River contain one of the highest concentrations of rare and endangered species in New York State, with more than 30 rare plants, including three that are globally threatened.  The Ponds are home to several rare amphibians, fish, and insects, including the Tiger Salamander and Banded Sunfish.

The preserve is located within the Long Island Central Pine Barrens Region, which consists of a complex mosaic of Pitch Pine woodlands, pine-oak forests, Coastal Plain Ponds, swamps, marshes, bogs, and streams.  Pitch Pine and Oak trees, with a shrub layer of Scrub Oak, Huckleberry, and Blueberry dominate the woodlands. Coastal Plain Ponds are characterized by nutrient poor, acidic water and a gently sloping shore.  Most Coastal Plain Ponds are not stream-fed, but are directly connected to groundwater.  Pond water levels rise and fall with the water table, reflecting seasonal and annual rainfall patterns.Consequently, a unique community of plants grows along the pond shores.  Periods of both low and high water levels are essential for their survival. 

 

Sandy Pond

Sandy Pond

Sandy Pond

Sandy Pond

Sandy Pond

Block Pond

Block Pond

Block Pond

First time I saw one of these!

 Calverton Ponds Preserve Trail Map

References: 

Website: Hike Long Island: http://www.hike-li.org/pictureweek/pictweek2_00.htm