The bio-diversity of this pitcher plant bog is the greatest I’ve ever seen. Taken yesterday, I counted at least five species of Sarracenia and at least two hybrids - some waist high! It’s really hard to believe these places are real and exist in nature - it reminds of a scene that could be found in the movie Avatar… It’s no wonder so many people think these photos are generated using AI!

This place exists thanks to regular controlled burns - whether natural or controlled, burns are absolutely essential in a pinewood forest. It helps to control the undergrowth that would otherwise choke out other native species (I.e. pine seedlings, pitcher plant, flowers, etc.) Also some pine species need fire for seed germination, or for the cones to open up. Also, fire suppression would cause a build up of undergrowth (fuel) in the forest, and when (not if) it does catch fire it can becomes an out-of-control forest fire which can completely destroy the forest, and surrounding communities. Controlled burns help to prevent this from occurring.

One of my favorite pitcher plant bogs is coming along nicely at Black Water forest after a (badly needed) controlled burn. This one was taken just a few days ago (4/24/2024).