Benefits of Boardwalks

Up on the Boardwalk.

The goal of the Friends’ organization is to protect and preserve an unspoiled wetland ecosystem, while at the same time making it possible for people of all ages and physical abilities to travel into a wetland to experience and enjoy this unique habitat. The boardwalk at Beaver Hollow allows visitors to observe and interact with a sensitive wetland ecosystem and its associated wildlife, while protecting the environment from ground compaction, erosion, and damage to vegetation. All foot traffic through the wetland is confined to this elevated walkway, which allows the nature that is below it to remain largely untouched and safe from disruption. There is a whole community of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects going about their daily lives underneath you as you walk above.

Under the Boardwalk.

A temporary ecosystem forms each winter under the snowpack, which is called the subnivium. The subnivium begins forming as soon as snow starts to build up on the ground. Branches, grasses and vegetation, or a boardwalk structure, can hold up the snow creating pockets. Snow is an excellent insulator, and the subnivium remains relatively comfortable at 32° F, no matter how cold and windy it is on the snow’s surface. The subnivium serves as a winter haven for many small mammals, such as mice, voles, shrews, weasels, and rabbits. They remain active under the snow all winter, developing a network of tunnels and living spaces where they forage for food. Tunnels for occasional access to and from the subnivium ensure that there is enough oxygen in this secretive world under the snow. Ruffed grouse often spend their nights in the subnivium habitat under the boardwalk, instead of making a snow roost. As you walk the snow covered boardwalk, look for the wing prints these birds make as they exit in the morning.