Summary

Description

Maquam Bog contains Vermonts largest populations of pitch pine, rhodora and chain fern, a statethreatened species. Dendrochronological methods were used to examine the ecological effects of fire and seasonal fluctuations in lake level on growth of pitch pine and distribution of shrub vegetation in the bog. Results indicate that fire plays an important role in determining present vegetation patterns in the bog, probably by reducing cover of tall shrubs, excluding fire intolerant species from recently burned areas, and allowing periodic reproduction of pitch pine. Prescribed burning should be considered in management plans if it is desired to maintain the bog in its present condition, and to ensure survival of its rare species.