Wetlands

Inside April 22, 2003's Issue

-News-

Explore Wetlands Preserve here at FC

The boardwalk over the wetlands at FC.

By Savannah Ruth
Staff Writer

One of the untapped resources of Georgia Highlands College is the Wetlands Preserve, located behind Paris Lake.

Students who commute and then rush off to home or work may not even be aware of this vibrant natural area just waiting to be explored.

Wetlands are areas of land associated with water (the water can be underground or up to six feet deep) and are excellent habitats for many different birds, fish, amphibians and mammals.

The water level here at the FC Wetlands Preserve varies in different spots and also changes with the seasons. The 1,200 foot boardwalk over the water allows the visitor to experience the sights and sounds of the wetlands without ending up with wet feet.

Tracks of various animals can be seen in the mud surrounding the water, and several beaver dams are spread throughout the wetlands.

Spring is an especially good time of year to visit the wetlands. Birds are beginning to build nests, the trees are getting leaves again and the water flows quite rapidly from the April showers.

The FC Wetlands Preserve is intended to reach out to the public and to educate them on the importance of wetlands, according to Becky Fiorillo, science lab assistant. It is also used for student research. The wetlands provide the FC biology students with a hands-on experience to complement their classroom studies. Local elementary, middle and high school students are also given tours of the FC Wetlands.

Wetlands are important to the entire eco-system and are especially useful to people: the birds that live in the wetlands help with insect control, and wetlands are a good watering source, particularly for drinking.

The FC Wetlands Preserve is located directly behind Paris Lake, which is behind the library. The wetlands are open to the public, but guided tours are also available by contacting either Dr. Mark Knauss, associate professor of biology (706-368-7535) or Fiorillo (706-368-7532).