Corkscrew Field Trip Blog

What are the distinct ecosystems that we saw on the trip? What “services” do they provide? Think about the living machine that we discussed. What are conservation and stewardship? What is the role of private non-profits in these two endeavors? How can like-minded people affect change? How/why does civic engagement factor into this? What was the motivation to preserve this particular acreage? What is the proper role of government, if any? From an ecological perspective, why not just bulldoze and build condos? 

                                                                

                                                                 THE BOARDWALK!

I never really knew of the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, until I actually went. To my surprise, it is also a tourist attraction, well over 100,000 people, from around the world, come every year to this place. Another factor that makes this place unique is that not only is it a nature preserve site, but it is also a water treatment facility, also known as the “living machine.” At a glance, this treatment facility looks like a greenhouse, of which this is partially true. Most plants need sunlight to live, or they would not be able to survive. The water is first run through five large tanks that contain anaerobic bacteria, which do not need oxygen to live. These bacteria consume the ammonia and convert it into nitrates. This water then flows into another tank and finally to plants, where the plants absorb the waters contaminants. The filtered water is then used to supply water to the water system in the park; the bathrooms and drinking fountains. Therefore like a machine, it works in a very precise cycle.

This sanctuary is home to a variety of fauna and flora. This ecosystem is vast and is composed of several habitats which include, pinewood flatwood, marsh, the bald cypress forest, which is home to the oldest living trees in Florida, some even being as old as 500 years, and several others. All these ecosystems work together in an ongoing cycle, providing life to all of its inhabitants. It is truly remarkable to me how a minor change in elevation leads into a whole different ecosystem. From the shallow marshes to the dryer and higher bald cypress forests, there are many changes that can be seen with the naked eye. The higher up you go, the more birds that you see, and the more that the air feels dry. The lower levels, like the marsh leading to the pinewood flatwood, are more wet and humid. These areas provide the Swamp Sanctuary with most of its water supply, which helps to support the entire ecosystem. The higher levels, like the cypress forest, provide shade, offer shelter to many animals, and help to replenish the forest floor. This ecosystem needs fire, at least once every three years, in order to clean the land and prevent overgrowth. All the organisms are adapted to it. What may seem like a catastrophe to us is actually a crucial component to its very existence. Lightning strikes the tallest object, this being the cypress trees. The fire causes the trees to release all of their seedlings to the ground. Once the fire clears out, the trees become rejuvenated and the seedlings begin to grow.

BUBBLEGUM LICHEN!!!

(This is one of the many organisms that reside in this sanctuary. Bubblegum Lichen is composed of bacteria and fungus that reproduces exponentially in accordance to the cleanliness in the air.)

In order for the reserve to stay maintained and properly managed, there has to be consistent conservation and stewardship efforts. This ecosystem is home to many rare organisms. If no conservation efforts are being consistently implemented, then this could mean to the end of a cycle. Thanks to the National Audobon Society, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is still around. They helped to raise awareness about the 500 years old bald cypresses and also about the endangered species who reside in them as well.  If it weren’t for those like-minded individuals who went out of their way to gain notice from the NAS, this sanctuary would have been in line for development. All it takes is one idea to spark the fire and these individuals not only sparked the fire, but they left a lasting impression that will always be remembered. Having just completely cleared the area to build condos, would have destroyed thousands of years in the making. Not only is this area an ecosystem, but it is also a historical landmark.