Have you ever wondered about the magical, biodiverse ecosystems that exist right in your own backyard? Look no further than the enchanting wetlands of West Virginia. This fascinating article provides a detailed listicle of the wetlands in the state, offering you a glimpse into the hidden gems that thrive within its borders. From tranquil marshes to lively swamps, “Wetlands In West Virginia” is your guide to discovering the awe-inspiring beauty and incredible biodiversity of these often overlooked natural wonders.
Wetlands in West Virginia
| etland Name | Location (Town/City or Region) | Wetland Type |
|---|---|---|
| Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge | Davis | Bogs, marshes, wet meadows |
| Cranberry Glades Botanical Area | Pocahontas County | Bogs, high-elevation wetlands |
| Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge | Ohio River | Island wetlands, marshes |
| Jug Wildlife Management Area | Tyler County | Wetlands, marshes |
| Green Bottom Wildlife Management Area | Cabell and Mason counties | Marshes, floodplain |
| Big Ditch Wildlife Management Area | Webster County | Wetlands, bogs |
| Bluestone National Scenic River | Southern West Virginia | Riverine wetlands |
| Pleasant Creek Wildlife Management Area | Barbour and Taylor counties | Marshes, wet meadows |
| Cheat Canyon Wildlife Management Area | Preston and Monongalia counties | Riverine wetlands |
| North Bend Wetlands | Ritchie County | Marshes, wet meadows |
| Wallback Wildlife Management Area | Clay and Roane counties | Wetlands, marshes |
| Plum Orchard Lake Wildlife Management Area | Fayette County | Lake margins, wet meadows |
| Tuckahoe Lake Wildlife Management Area | Greenbrier County | Lake margins, marshes |
| Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area | Berkeley and Morgan counties | Wetlands, marshes |
| Laurel Lake Wildlife Management Area | Mingo County | Lake margins, wet meadows |
| Little Kanawha Wildlife Management Area | Wirt and Calhoun counties | Riverine wetlands, marshes |
| Panther State Forest | McDowell County | Wetlands, bogs |
| Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park | Lewis County | Lake margins, wetlands |
| Shavers Fork Preserve | Randolph County | Wetlands, marshes |
| Youghiogheny River Lake | Near the Maryland border | Lake margins, wetlands |
| Camp Creek State Park and Forest | Mercer County | Wetlands, bogs |
| Cabwaylingo State Forest | Wayne County | Wetlands, bogs |
| Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area | Randolph County | Wetlands, marshes |
| Blackwater Falls State Park | Tucker County | Wetlands, bogs, riverine wetlands |
| Coopers Rock State Forest | Monongalia and Preston counties | Wetlands, bogs, riverine wetlands |
Canaan Valley
Canaan Valley, situated in the northeastern part of West Virginia, is the largest high-altitude valley east of the Mississippi. This wetland is primarily a peat bog, a rare ecosystem for this region. The Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge protects much of the valley, ensuring its diverse flora and fauna, including rare species, have a safe haven. The valley is renowned for its stunning scenic views, diverse ecosystems, and recreational activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Cranesville Swamp
Cranesville Swamp is nestled near the Maryland-West Virginia border. It is a boreal bog, resulting from the cool temperatures and high precipitation created by its location in a frost pocket. The swamp is a maze of lush vegetation, including sphagnum moss and several carnivorous plants. The Nature Conservancy maintains a preserve here, offering boardwalk trails for visitors to experience this unique environment up close.
Ohio River Islands
These are a series of islands within the Ohio River, primarily located in West Virginia. The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge encompasses many of these islands, preserving them as habitats for various aquatic and terrestrial species. These islands are significant as they provide nesting habitats for migratory birds and shelter for rare mussels and fish.
Green Bottom Wildlife Management Area
Located near the Ohio River in Cabell and Mason counties, this wetland is approximately 1,096 acres. Originally the plantation of a Confederate general, it’s now a diverse wetland habitat renowned for birdwatching. Its wetlands, forests, and open waters are home to many species, especially migratory birds.
Red Spruce Knob
Found in the Monongahela National Forest, Red Spruce Knob is an upland bog. The location at a high elevation, combined with the cool temperatures, make this a unique habitat in the state. The area is noted for its dense red spruce trees, moss-covered grounds, and rare plants.
Big Blue Creek Wetlands
Located in the Greenbrier County, the Big Blue Creek Wetlands are unique due to their karst topography, which features limestone carved by water over time. The wetlands are vital habitats for amphibians and offer unique ecosystems based on the water’s mineral content and the presence of sinkholes.
Plum Orchard Lake
This 202-acre lake is situated within the Plum Orchard Wildlife Management Area. While man-made, it has become an essential wetland habitat in the region. It’s a popular spot for fishing, given its abundant stock of catfish, bass, and bluegill. The surrounding area also provides habitat for various wetland birds and mammals.
New River Gorge Wetlands
Within the vast New River Gorge National River area, there are several wetlands. These areas are essential as they help to filter water that eventually reaches the New River. Additionally, they provide crucial habitats for amphibians, birds, and various plant species.
Elizabeth Run Swamp
Elizabeth Run Swamp is located in Monroe County. This area is a rare example of a fen wetland in West Virginia. Fens are unique as they are fed by mineral-rich groundwater, leading to a diverse array of plant life not found in other wetland types. Many rare plants thrive here, making it a botanist’s dream destination.
Blister Swamp
Situated in the eastern part of the state, Blister Swamp is a high-altitude wetland. Its location and elevation make it an essential habitat for various plant and animal species, including some that are considered rare or endangered in the state. Its unique biodiversity makes it a significant location for conservation efforts.
West Virginia’s wetlands are crucial for biodiversity, water purification, and recreation. Each of these wetlands tells a story of the state’s natural history and underscores the importance of preserving these habitats for future generations.
