Myrtle Lake Peatland SNA
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22,950 Acres (22,630* Acres) Located approximately 13 miles SE of Big Falls. From Effie, go N on Co Rd 5 for 6.5 miles, then go E and N 2 miles on Co. Rd. 62. Take the Holmstrom Spur Forest Road E for 8 miles to junction with Lofgren Forest Road, and follow it N for 0.5 mile. When road veers W, hike NE 0.5 mile to the SNA. Koochiching County Twp 63-65N Rng 23-25W Sec Type: Coniferous Forest ECS Subsection: Littlefork-Vermilion Uplands |
Description:
Myrtle Lake Peatland, a National Natural Landmark, is significant for its massive, raised bog, its very large water track, and its ribbed fen with a patterned water track, all of which are virtually undisturbed. A water falls three feet high provides a clue to the unique character of this peatland. Numerous rare plant species make this a valuable research site; it is, in fact, one of the most heavily studied peatlands in the United States. Occasional moose, Eastern timber wolf, and bog copper butterflies meander among rare sundews, rushes, sedge, and mountain yellow-eyed grass. Visitors should plan on getting wet feet in the summer, when they can best see butterflies and unusual plants. * The Wetland Conservation Act of 1991 legislatively established the boundaries of the Peatland SNA as displayed. The acreage of land within these boundaries is cited first. The acreage of land owned by the State of Minnesota is cited in parenthesis.
Visitor notes:
If you intend to visit this site it is advisable to carry a topographical map produced by the U.S. Geological Survey. These maps display many old logging trails which may or may not be identifiable on the ground anymore.