Nelson Swamp

Robert Wesley, Botanist

Sunday, June 21st | 10 am – 3 pm

Nelson Swamp is a very special place. It is quite extensive and very much limestone influenced. White cedar (Thuja occidentalis) and balsam fir (Abies balsamea) are abundant and dominant over large portions of the swamp. It has many rare species and remarkably high species richness – people at SUNY ESF have documented over 400 species of vascular plants. It is also remarkably intact; many parts have probably never been logged. It has a number of orchids, and some things like twinflower (Linnaea borealis) that are not easy to find in central New York. Much of the swamp has been acquired by New York State and incorporated into a State Unique Area. 

Bring a lunch, water, and snacks – we’ll look to have a return to the trailhead by around 3pm. Don’t forget good footwear (sturdy sneakers are fine) and a poncho, just in case there’s a little rain. Be prepared to repel ticks and biting insects.

We will meet at 10:00am at a location that will be communicated to those who register. 

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email nelson@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

NYFA relies on the generous support of its members to offer free Field Trips and Learn 10 workshops. If you are able, please consider a donation to help support these efforts. Suggested Donation is $10.