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Maryland/DC
Pilot Serpentine Barren
Overview
Pilot Serpentine Barren is named after its unusual serpentine bedrock. An open, dry grassland surrounded by forest, Pilot is an excellent example of how an area's geology determines a natural community's character. Soils here are thin and nutrient poor but rich in minerals. This environment combined with a dry, hot microclimate results in an unusual community of plants adapted to the serpentine barren.
Visiting the Preserve
This preserve is only open to scientific research with prior permission from The Nature Conservancy, because of the fragility of the serpentine barren habitat. Even a few visitors can damage the plants, animals, and natural communities that live here. Thank you for your understanding and help in protecting Pilot Serpentine Barren.
Location
Northern Cecil County
Why the Conservancy Selected This Site
The Pilot Serpentine Barren Preserve is one of only four remaining examples of this federally endangered barren natural community.
What the Conservancy Is Doing Here
- 32 acres protected by the Conservancy since 1985 and an additional 60 acres under management agreement with our preserve neighbor
- Controlled burns conducted since 1991
- Serpentine grassland habitat restoration
Plants
- Fameflower (a state-rare species)
- Serpentine aster (a nationally rare species, only found on serpentine soils)
- Prairie dropseed
Discussion
Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.
Add Your Comments
Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!
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