BUCKEYE LAKE, OH -- Ohio's only floating island and one of its most unique nature preserves, Cranberry Island, will be open to the public for tours on June 23, by reservation only, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Except for this annual one-day event, public visitation to the bog is available by permit only, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
For the first time, reservations for this popular event are required, and space is limited. Those wishing to visit the island must contact ODNR's Division of Natural Areas & Preserves beginning June 1 at 614-265-6453, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations will be accepted until all time slots are full.
Located about 25 yards off the north shore of Buckeye Lake, Cranberry Bog is an 11-acre island containing unusual northern bog species, including sphagnum moss, which gives the island its unique, spongy surface. Registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, the island dates from 1830 when Buckeye Lake was created as a feeder reservoir for the Ohio-Erie Canal. A 50-acre portion of the bog mat broke loose and rose with the waters as the lake filled. Cranberry Bog is what remains of that floating acreage after 170 years.
Rare orchids and an abundance of cranberry and pitcher plants grow on the island, as does tawny cottongrass, scheuchzeria, mud sedge, buckbean and sundew. The island's grass-pink orchid is traditionally at its peak bloom during the open house.
Division staff will be conducting guided tours of the island during the event. The Greater Buckeye Lake Historical Society will provide boat transportation to the island from the North Shore Launch Ramp. A $5 per person donation is requested for the round-trip ride. The island tour is free of charge.
Visitors are asked to park at the North Shore Launch Ramp of Buckeye Lake, located off Route 79, south of Interstate 70. Signs to the event will be posted.
For Further Information Contact:
Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves
(614) 265-6520
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265