It is a rare sedge or grasslike plant that ranges north to the tundra regions. The tamaracks came in all sizes. One towered over the bog, while some were only a few inches high. Some branches have a spiny look, somewhat like a shedding Christmas tree. The newer growth is a pretty green.
Sphagnum moss is prevalent, making an insulating blanket.
Highbush blueberry and small cranberry bushes are beginning to show color. Other bog shrubs are hollies, leatherleaf and poison sumac. Virginia chain ferns are tall, upright and numerous. A plaque tells about the spotted turtle, but Cooperrider has yet to see the secretive, palm-sized reptile with bright yellow spots. The gray walkway, made from recycled milk jugs and other plastic, is the first of its kind.