Orchard Bog & Quarry Bog
 Quarry Bog © Byron Jorjorian |
Why You Should Visit
Orchard Bog and Quarry bog are globally rare remnants of a once vast peatland community. After the retreat of the last glacial event, Shady Valley managed to retain rare wetland habitats now known only to more northerly environments.
Location
Shady Valley, Tennessee, tucked away in Johnson County.
Hours
Open year-round, dawn to dusk.
Note: Orchard Bog and Quarry Bog are closed to the public until further notice.
Conditions
There is a trail cleared for walking, but because it is a restored wetland there may be some muddy spots.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
Check the local weather forecast and dress accordingly. A hat and drinking water are recommended. During warm weather light-colored and light-weight clothing is suggested. Repellent, binoculars, and field guide(s) are also worth bringing.
Directions
From Nashville, TN
- Travel east on Interstate 40 to Interstate 81 east to Bristol, Tennessee.
From Bristol, TN
- Follow Highway 421 South through town and 18 miles south to Shady Valley.
What to See: Plants
Orchard Bog Preserve also contains several state-rare plants such as the Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), Cotton Grass (Eriophorum virginicum), and Nuttall Pondweed (Potamogeton epihydrus).
What to See: Animals
Shady Valley is beautiful in any season, but birdwatchers will be thrilled by the spring and fall migration shows (early April to mid-May, early September to mid-October). The uncommon Alder Flycatcher (Empidonax alnorum) is also documented on the site.
Why the Conservancy Selected This Site
Over the past century most of the expansive peatland system was drained and converted for agricultural purposes and grazing pastures, leaving only a handful of bogs in the vicinity. In addition to the loss of wetland habitat, the natural water flows of the valley were altered by agricultural practices and the damming and channelization of Beaverdam Creek.