Old Salty Survivors
Maritime Forest
When soil conditions are relatively stable on the barrier island, tree seedlings may begin to grow in the moist protected hollows behind the dunes. These maritime forests must not only take root in constantly shifting sands, but also survive the rigors of daily salt-laden winds.
Red cedar, American holly, pitch pine, black cherry, and red maple comprise most of the forest. The proportions of each vary with environmental influences and the age of the island. For example, American holly thrives in Sandy Hook’s forest, while red cedar and pitch pine dominant maritime woodlands along the central coast of New Jersey. Can you determine the dominant tree species at this location?
Barrier island visitors benefit from the natural beauty and recreational opportunities maritime forests provide. They not only shade the island providing food, water, and shelter for wildlife, but also buffer noise and filter dust and fog from the air.
Marker can be reached from Broadway, on the right when traveling north.
Courtesy hmdb.org
