Wetlands

It is estimated that 214 acres of wetlands are found within First State National Historical Park (USFWS, 2019). There is one vegetation community associated with wetlands found within the Unit (see chart below). Wetlands provide critical habitat for numerous species including amphibians and reptiles. The greatest threat to wetlands are human activities including development, agriculture, and grazing, all of which cause a decrease in vegetation and disturbance of the water flow and table. A wetland delineation study has been started but not yet completed for the Brandywine Valley unit.

Skunk Cabbage-Orange Jewelweed Seep

Skunk Cabbage-Orange Jewelweed Seep is found in the floodplain of Brandywine Creek. Most of the wetland is composed of herbs with a few scattered canopy trees (Coxe, 2014). This type of habitat is particularly important for amphibian and reptile species.

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References:

• Coxe, R. (2014). Historical Analysis and Map of Vegetation Communities, Land Covers, and Habitats of the Woodlawn Tract New Castle County, Delaware. Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Division of Fish and Wildlife. Smyrna, DE: DNREC. Retrieved 2019

• USFWS. (2019). The National Wetlands Inventory. Retrieved from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/