Session: Carnivorous Plants and Species-Rich Wet Pine Savannas (2018 ESA Annual Meeting (August 5 -- 10))

Sunday, August 5, 2018: 7:30 AM-3:00 PM

Lobby E, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

Trip Leader:

J. Stephen Brewer

Co-leaders:

John D. Horner and Aaron Ellison

If you're interested in high plant species diversity, wetland ecology, cool plants (carnivorous plants, club mosses, fire-adapted plants) and federal endangered species policy, this is the trip for you! We'll travel to a few sites along the Mississippi Gulf Coast managed by the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge and the Crosby Arboretum. The sites we will visit are managed with frequent prescribed burning to maintain high herbaceous plant diversity. We will see at least two species of carnivorous pitcher plants (Sarracenia alata, S. psittacina, possibly S. leucophylla), as well as at least two sundew species (Drosera capillaris and Drosera tracyi). We'll also see several fire-adapted plants, most notably those that show fire-stimulated flowering (e.g., Aristida stricta, Ctenium aromaticum, Carphephorus pseudoliatris). We'll also learn about some of the fire ecology and species diversity research that is currently ongoing in these systems. We'll learn about the origin of the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge and how it was an early test case for the US Endangered Species Act. We are NOT likely to see the Mississippi Sandhill Crane, but it is a remote possibility. Finally, we will visit the Crosby Arboretum (affiliated with Mississippi State University) and a seepage bog that it manages and learn about and witness a small-scale representation of the plant communities of the Pearl River watershed.

Registration Fee: $95

Equipment and Attire: The wet pine savannas and seepage bogs of southern Mississippi are relatively easy to walk through. August, though, is probably the least comfortable time to be in southern Mississippi. So, be prepared for very high heat and humidity, a possible late morning or afternoon thunderstorm, and very little shade. Suncreen, a hat, and light, breathable clothing are highly recommended. Although plenty of water will be provided, you might want to bring your own water bottle. Although these are indeed wetlands, the substrate is more consolidated than say in your typical marsh. Shin high rubber boots or old shoes you don't mind getting soggy are sufficient. We will stay on a trail, however, at Hillside Bog. Biting insects usually are not a big problem, especially during the heat of the day. Deer flies, mosquitoes, and no-see-um gnats, however, can occasionally be a problem. Bringing some insect repellent is not a bad idea. Imported fire ants will be encountered, as well as briars. Watch where you step. Bring a camera or smartphone.

Itinerary: 7:30 am - Assemble at convention center
8:00 am - Depart for Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, Vancleave, MS
9:45 am - Arrive at MSCNWR, tour the wet pine savanna near the entrance to the visitor center; Brewer will point out some of the more common plants there, including carnivorous plants, wiregrass, and toothache grass, and will briefly talk about the management that is happening in the refuge.
10:30 am - Depart for Crosby Arboretum, Picayune, MS
11:45 am - Arrive at Crosby Arboretum (pay $5 dollar entrance fee), have picnic lunch, followed by a brief tour of the Arboretum.
12:45 pm - Depart Crosby Arboretum for Hillside Bog
1:00 pm - Arrive at Hillside Bog and take a tour of the site, guided by CA curator, Jennifer Buchanan.
2:00 pm - Depart for New Orleans
3:30 pm - Arrive at Convention Center

See more of: Field Trips

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FT 3 - Carnivorous Plants and Species-Rich Wet Pine Savannas