BOGS AND FENS - REMNANTS OF OHIO’S GLACIAL PAST
PROTECTED THROUGH TAX CHECK-OFF DONATIONS
COLUMBUS, OH - Thousands of years ago retreating glaciers created unique habitats that today host some of Ohio’s most rare and beautiful species. Many of these special places, known as bogs and fens, are protected within state nature preserves, thanks to contributions by Ohioans on their state income tax returns.
By checking the “Nature Preserves, Scenic Rivers and Endangered Species” box on their state income tax form, Ohioans help the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) protect exceptional places, such as wetland habitats. Each checkmark designates a portion of a taxpayer’s refund to help support state nature preserves, home to a wide range of plant and animal populations, as well as endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
Check-off dollars have helped improve accessibility for all Ohioans to these special places. Funding supports a variety of critical activities including land acquisition, trail improvements and educational opportunities for visitors.
Bogs are an important remnant of Ohio’s glacial past. As glaciers retreated, blocks of ice broke off and melted, leaving kettle lakes in the depressions. Northern bog plants became established around the shores of these lakes.
A variety of rare boreal species now call these acidic environments home, including carnivorous species such as sun-dew and pitcher plant (left). Other rare plants include the beautiful rose pogonia and grass-pink orchids, wild cranberry and tamarack trees. Great examples of these species can be found at Kent Bog and Triangle Lake Bog in Portage County.
Another wetland community left behind by the glaciers is alkaline or calcareous wetlands known as fens. Sometimes called bogs, these unique places support another set of specific plants, which thrive in these spring-fed, calcium-rich habitats. Cedar Bog in Champaign County and Jackson Bog in Stark County, which are actually fens, are classic examples of this wetland community, supporting such species as shrubby cinquefoil, fringed gentian and Ohio goldenrod.
These fascinating ecosystems have some of the highest concentrations of endangered and threatened species of any plant community in Ohio. A variety of other small bogs and fens protected as state nature preserves exist across the state and are accessible only with permission.
Thanks to Ohioans who have generously donated to the tax check-off program, the state’s rich natural heritage can be protected and enjoyed today and for future generations. Continuing to protect and preserve the remaining vestiges of Ohio’s rich natural heritage will forever enhance the landscape of the state.
Those who wish to donate a portion of their state income tax refund should check the box on line 24 (1040) or line 16 (1040EZ) on the state tax return form. Those who are not eligible to receive a refund may send a check to the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves at 2045 Morse Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229. For additional information, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com.