Forested Trail Through Edgewood Preserve

The Edgewood Oak brush Plains preserves 840 acres owned by New York State. The Brentwood Heath is a type of heathland ecosystem found within the Edgewood Preserve that is a rare and threatened ecological community in New York State with only a few good exemplary habitats left. The heathland is characterized by open, low-growing vegetation dominated by heath plants such as heather and various species of laurel family. These heathlands typically occur on acidic, nutrient-poor soils and are often associated with fire-adapted plants. 

The pitch pine community is another important ecological community found within the Edgewood Preserve. Pitch pine (Pinus rigida) is a species of pine tree that is well adapted to fire-prone environments. This community consists of pitch pine trees along with associated plant species that can withstand the heat and occasional fires that occur in the area. Pitch pine has thick, fire-resistant bark and serotinous cones that require the heat of fire to open and release their seeds, allowing for regeneration after a fire event.

Preserving and protecting these ecological communities, such as the Brentwood Heath and the pitch pine community, is crucial for maintaining the health and diversity of the Edgewood Preserve ecosystem. These communities play a vital role in supporting local wildlife, providing habitat, and contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area.

Register with the Brentwood Public Library for this walk!

Directions to Edgewood Preserve Parking Lot

This walk is hosted by the Brentwood Public Library. See here for more information about the walk from the Brentwood public library.