Poplar Creek
Last Review/Updated: May 10, 2002
© C. Wershler |
The Poplar Creek gravel pit covers approximately 300 hectares. When areas of it have been fully mined for their aggregate deposits, they are allowed to return to a semi-natural state.
This process, known as succession, creates habitat for many wildlife species.
The site consists of shrubland and open grassland areas, surrounded by aspen and white and black spruce stands. Look for wild rose bushes, blueberries and raspberries, as well as highbush cranberries and saskatoons.
Canada geese, great blue herons, sandhill cranes and other interesting bird species visit the area each year. Throughout the forested areas and road access sites, view white-tailed deer, black bears and, possibly, coyotes. Watch for chipmunks and squirrels darting across the roads and through the trees.
In the winter, deer may be seen browsing shrubs in snow-covered grassy areas. At dusk, you may catch a glimpse of a great horned owl as it swoops down on a snowshoe hare.
