Burns Bog Field Study

Burns Bog is a domed bog which is approximately 3000 hectares in size and is mostly covered by peat. Under this peat, is a layer of deltaic sand which was deposited from the creation of the Fraser River over 5000 years ago (Comprehensive Guide to Burns Bog). This was when the Fraser River was a low wetland and as flooding occurred, sediments were carried and accumulated. Over the past 150 years, dykes and draining changes have impacted the vegetation (more dryer plants). This is a reason why only two-thirds of the bog remains today. Watershed Park is one of the largest parks in Delta and is built upon an artesian water supply (Watershed Park in North Delta). There are many trails for cycling, hiking and activities. Humans have depended on this artesian water supply to provide fresh water. In 1947, the water was a source of emergency water however, now the water is mixed with Metro Vancouver's Mountain Reservoirs water and supplied to Delta's residents. The Serpentine Wildlife Management Area is 150 hectares large fen and holds many types of species and habitats, including birds and reptiles (Serpentine Fen). Throughout the fen, there are public trails and recreational activities such as, walking and studying the nature. This area is managed by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks. This land was previously

Freshwater is also looked at as floodplain management is observed. The patterns of environmental quality are also examined. My hypothesis is that pH levels and drainage account for the significant differences in vegetation between the areas. This is because both drainage and pH levels play a role in what type of soil is available. The pH level determines the types of plants that grow and the drainage effects the type of soil present, which influences the