Nature Preserve Area:
9
County:
Massac
Location and Access:
From Mermet, take Hwy. 45 southeast to Mermet Lake State Conservation Area. The nature preserve is in the southeast corner of the conservation area.
Special Note: Informational signs, trail and parking are present.
Description:
Mermet Swamp contains original vegetation once typical of the Bottomland Section and Cretaceous Hill Section of the Coastal Plain Natural Division. The preserve is a level, wooded, bottomland swamp, with a small part of the preserve extending up a steep hillside. The swamp is under water most of the year and is characterized by a thick stand of young cypress trees, most of which are less than 15 inches in diameter. Buttonbush and Virginia willow are dominant shrubs, while unusual plants include storax, arrow alum and red iris. Many common mammals are found here as well as unusual and rare species including swamp rabbit, golden mouse and rice rat. The swamp also provides habitat for a wide diversity of birds, amphibians and reptiles.
Ownership:
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Dedicated:
May 1969 as the 20th Illinois Nature Preserve
Size:
43 acres
Topographic Quad:
Joppa
Topo Map:
Directions:
For further information:
Site Superintendent, Mermet Lake Conservation Area, Belknap, IL 62908 (618/524-5577)
