

W MAINE 



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General description: As a result of glaciation, Maine exhibits a vast network of 

 poorly drained depressions and little lakes, where tree-covered bogs and heath 

 vegetation have developed. Black spruce and larch are the typical bog trees. 

 Shrubby ericads (members of the heath family) are especially abundant. Most of 

 the areas reported are bogs. Some marshes may be found on the Moosehorn Na- 

 tional Wildlife Refuge. 



Status of the wetlands: The inland wetlands of Maine are still in good condition. 

 They are numerous and of low commercial value. Near the larger cities, such as 

 Augusta, there is some danger of destruction due to development and the ex- 

 ploitation of sand and gravel. 



Source of data: Personnel from Inland Fisheries and Game, university biologists, 

 and others knowledgeable of the state's wetlands contributed the information 

 summarized. 



Recommendations: The following bogs are outstanding and are recommended 

 for landmark status. Orono Bog, comprising 1500 acres near the University of 

 Maine, is readily accessible and in private ownership. Data on the potential of 

 this bog as a Natural Landmark were submitted to the National Park Service in 

 January 1967, by M. W. Coulter, University of Maine. Alton Bog, an excellent 

 open heath of 2500 acres, is in the same vicinity. It is readily accessible and can 

 be seen from Route 1-95, which bisects it. These two bogs are close to the 

 University of Maine at Orono. The Passadumkeag Marshes are extensive heaths 

 and marshlands traversed by Cold Stream. The Salmon Stream is a similar type 

 of area. Meddybemps Heath, a large undisturbed sphagnum bog with black 

 spruce, encompassing some 2000 acres, is extremely isolated, but may be 

 reached by foot or boat during most of the year. The Caribou Bog of about 

 1000 acres is another wetland noted for its rich orchid flora. Tyler Pond and Joe 

 Pond are in a complex of marsh, bog, and upland sites, outstanding for its glacial 

 features. This area is located near the new University of Maine campus. Our 

 correspondents give Tyler Pond priority over Joe Pond. We feel the whole com- 

 plex should be looked at. Landmark status would help to assure the preservation 

 of this area as a future educational facility. Similarly, the Deblois complex 

 should be given high priority for its bogs, potholes, and glacial formations. The 

 Colby-Marston Preserve is a college-owned bog already under permanent pro- 

 tection. The Sunken Bog Natural Area has been set aside as a research area 

 within the extensive Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge. 



