For Everything There Is A Season

For Everything There Is A Season. . , The extensive flint deposits at Flint Ridge and the quarrying by early residents influenced the local ecosystem, including how nonhuman inhabitants thrive here and how trees grow in the area. Mining activities at Flint Ridge ceased hundreds of years ago, but the flint pits dug by ancient Americans remained., The ancient flint quarries have become vernal pools (temporary wetlands) that are now home to a variety of plants and animals. The flint layer just a few feet beneath the soil hinders drainage, which influences the species of trees living here., At Flint Ridge, the vernal pools are critical breeding grounds for 10 species of salamander. Several native species are unusual for the area, including the Four-toed Salamander, which is a "Species of Concern" in Ohio Thriving and diverse native amphibian populations, such as those found at Flint Ridge, indicate that an ecosystem is healthy., In addition to numerous animals, this seasonal forested wetland supports several kinds of trees. American beech trees prefer wet areas, and you can see a number of them nearby. Look for their smooth, gray "elephant leg" trunks and cigar-shaped buds. Other species that thrive in this ecosystem include oak, maple, hickory, sycamore, dogwood, redbud, hop hornbeam, cherry, elm, and sweetgum., The trees' lives may be shortened because the flint underneath the soil blocks downward foot growth, making the trees less stable.