Abstract Detail

Getting everyone involved: Saving the seaside alder

Borer, Catherine [1], Carver, Michelle [1].

The Georgia seaside alder: conservation challenges and opportunities.

The seaside alder (Alnus maritima) is a wetland tree species growing in three geographically isolated locations: on the Delmarva Peninsula, in south central Oklahoma, and in northwest Georgia. These three separate groups are genetically distinct and are considered to be separate subspecies of the seaside alder. They are thought to be relicts from a previously widespread tree species. The Georgia subspecies exists in two known populations in Drummond Swamp, a spring-fed swamp near the Etowah River in Bartow County in northwest Georgia. Much of the land in which these trees grow is owned by Georgia Power, which is actively working to obtain and conserve the relevant parcels of land, to protect this species. However, substantial portions of the seaside alder's habitat in the Drummond Swamp are currently owned privately. A variety of land uses in the area result in a range of conservation challenges. In order to learn more about this rare subspecies, we have been evaluating the seaside alder in Drummond Swamp to determine average stem diameter and clump size, as well as tree height and reproductive status, and map the current extent of this subspecies. We are working with local conservation organizations and with Georgia Power to evaluate and conserve the seaside alder in Georgia, and to understand its essential wetland habitat. It is likely that educational programs will be developed in the future, to help educate the public about the unique attributes of this species, and the importance of its habitat.

1 - Berry College, Biology, P.O. Box 490430, Mount Berry, GA, 30149, USA

Keywords:
Alnus maritima
seaside alder
relictual species
Conservation Biology.

Presentation Type: Symposium Presentation
Session: SY3, Getting everyone involved: Saving the seaside alder
Location: Fort Worth Ballroom 2/Omni Hotel
Date: Tuesday, June 27th, 2017
Time: 10:45 AM
Number: SY3006
Abstract ID:448
Candidate for Awards:None