The natural community at the Maxton Plains Nature Area has a very unusual biology, which is derived largely from the unusual geological condition and history of the site. It is a relatively undisturbed example of one of the rarest natural communities in Michigan, known as "alvar." Alvar occurs in areas where all of the soils have been scraped away by wind, water and ice, leaving the 400 million year old limestone bedrock exposed. These areas are typically treeless, the vegetation dominated by grasses, sedges and herbs that grow in cracks within the bedrock, or in a very thin soil layer over the bedrock. To some, it may look like an abandoned parking lot with weeds growing in the pavement cracks, but the life that flourishes in alvar areas is abundant and special.
TRAILS: Due to the fragile nature of this landscape, there are no trails on the preserve. You can walk along the road, view interpretive signage, or hike at nearby trails and beaches. For more information about Maxton Plains Nature Area, check out the Preserve Guide.
| Features |
|
|---|---|
| Season(s) of Operation |
|