Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Ecosite Fact sheets (third draft)

Transcription

1 Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Ecosite Fact sheets (third draft) January 12, 2015 Monique Wester, Peter Uhlig, Wasyl Bakowsky, Erin Banton Profile diagrams produced by Michelle Hemsworth Please submit comments or questions on the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Ecosite Factsheets to: Peter Uhlig Provincial Ecologist Mailing Address: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Ontario Forest Research Institute 1235 Queen Street East Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6A 2E5 Phone: (705) peter.uhlig@ontario.ca

2 Profile/Slope Sequence Excavated Bluff G001X Not Available Ecosite Description Exposed vertical mineral material communities associated with ongoing sand or gravel extraction. These communities support limited vascular vegetation, bryophytes, and lichens (foliose, fruticose) due to ongoing human activity. Substrate texture typically sandy, may be stony. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Due to ongoing human activity plant communities are extremely limited. Vascular vegetation 2%. Bryophyte and lichen cover (fruticose, foliose) 10%. Communities on vertical surfaces (> 60 or 173%, minimum height of 3 m). Crustose lichen cover unlimited. Vegetation highly variable. Trees and shrubs relatively absent, when present Rubus species (e.g., raspberry, blackberry) may occur. Herbaceous species when present dominated by opportunistic weed species. Common herbaceous plants may include goldenrods, common mullein, vipers bugloss, and chicory. Moss species may include haircap mosses. V2 V3 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Rubus spp. Solidago spp., Verbascum thapsus, Echium vulgare, Cichorium intybus, Portulaca oleracea, Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Danthonia spicata, Poa compressa, Oenothera biennis, Anaphalis margaritacea, Leucanthemum vulgare, Equisetum arvense Non-vascular Polytrichum spp.

3 G001X Excavated Bluff Ecology Active excavation of substrate limits the establishment of plant communities. Due to the verticality of the ecosite slope instability may be present resulting in slumping and erosion. In the absence of disturbance, opportunistic species found in nearby plant communities will inhabit the area. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range concentrated in areas of deep coarse materials typically associated with glaciofluvial, but may be glaciolacustrine (beach or delta) or ice contact moranial (kame moraine). Edaphic Variability Variable in texture and moisture. Typically deep. Substrate generally skeletal. Often on upper or middle slope positions. Exposed bedrock or bedrock inclusions likely with kame moraine. Vegetation when present consists of disturbance/drought tolerant species. Related Ecosites N/A 003, 004 Vascular vegetation cover > 2% Active but not through excavation N/A

4 Profile/Slope Sequence Active Bluff G002X Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Exposed vertical mineral material communities often associated with rivers and lakeshores. These communities support limited vascular vegetation, bryophytes, and lichens (foliose, fruticose) due to activity such as riverbank slumping, erosion, or slope failure. Substrate texture variable. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Not vegetated. Vascular vegetation 2%. Bryophyte and lichen cover (fruticose, foliose) 10%. Communities on vertical surfaces (> 60 or 173%, minimum height of 3 m). Crustose lichen cover unlimited. Vegetation highly variable consisting of species that are adapted to exposed and highly disturbed materials. Suite of species often reflective of adjacent opportunistic vegetation communities. Shrub species may include willows, Rubus species, and alders. Common herbaceous plants may include goldenrods, large-leaved aster, and fireweed. Moss and lichen coverage limited. A4 A5 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Salix spp., Rubus spp., Alnus spp., Rhus spp. Solidago spp., Eurybia macrophyllus, Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Equisetum arvense, Tussilago farfara

5 G002X Active Bluff Ecology Instability of substrate limits the permanent establishment of plant communities. Often found on upper parts of steep riverbanks prone to collapse following the undercutting by river currents or because of other cumulative events such as wind erosion, frost-heave or saturation from groundwater seepage. Ecosite maintained by disturbance. In the absence of disturbance, early successional species may be replaced and the ecosite will likely succeed to a meadow or shrub community. Ecoregional Variability Widespread but uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with large river systems, lakeshores, and areas of unstable substrates of glaciofluvial or glaciolacustrine origins. Edaphic Variability Highly variable in texture and moisture. Often on upper or middle slope positions. Substrate usually sandy however along lower river reach may be silty or clayey with evidence of varving. Variety and percent cover of shrubs and herb diversity occur on slopes that have not been disturbed in a number of years. Vegetation composition variable containing a patchy mosaic of active areas with no vegetation adjacent to sparsely vegetated areas. Steep slope faces even when vegetated and stable are susceptible to ongoing failure. Related Ecosites N/A 003, 004 Vascular vegetation cover > 2% Active through excavation N/A

6 Open Bluff G003N Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Ecosite Description Typically herbaceous vegetation community on exposed vertical mineral material often associated with rivers and lakeshores. Includes plant communities on slumping river embankments. Wide variety of herbaceous species can occur but in limited quantities. Vegetation variable in cover. Tree and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly exposed mineral material. Substrate texture variable. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Herbaceous, lichen, or bryophyte dominated community. Absolute vegetation cover 25%. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs often present. Communities on vertical surfaces (> 60 or 173%, minimum height of 3 m). Slopes that have been stable for a few years since the last disturbance have more continuous vegetation. Highly variable vegetation consisting of species that are adapted to exposed and highly disturbed materials. Suite of species often reflective of adjacent vegetation community. Common tree and shrub species include birches, aspens, cherries, willows, Rubus species, and alders. Common herbaceous species include large-leaved aster, fireweed, and Canada blue-joint grass. Moss and lichen coverage limited. V2 V3 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Trees Betula spp., Populus spp., Prunus spp., Picea spp., Acer spp., Thuja occidentalis Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Salix spp., Rubus spp., Alnus spp., Rhus spp. Eurybia macrophyllus, Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Equisetum arvense, Tussilago farfara, Danthonia spicata, Maianthemum stellatum. Equisetum laevigatum

7 G003N Open Bluff Ecology Instability of substrate limits the permanent establishment of plant communities. Time since last disturbance has permitted the development of a plant community. Often found on upper parts of steep riverbanks prone to collapse following the undercutting by river currents or because of other cumulative events such as wind erosion, frost-heave or saturation from groundwater seepage. Ecosite maintained by disturbance (slumping). In the absence of disturbance, early successional species may be replaced and the ecosite will likely succeed to a meadow or shrub system Ecoregional Variability Widespread but uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with large river systems, lakeshores, and areas of unstable substrates of glaciofluvial or glaciolacustrine origins. Edaphic Variability Highly variable in texture and moisture. Often on upper or middle slope positions. Variety and percent cover of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity occur on slopes that have not been disturbed in a number of years. Vegetation composition variable containing a patchy mosaic of active areas with no vegetation adjacent to sparsely vegetated areas. Steep slope faces even when vegetated and stable are susceptible to ongoing failure. Related Ecosites N/A 004 Tree/Shrub Cover >10% , 002 Active N/A

8 Bluff G004Tt/Tl/S Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Ecosite Description Sparsely vegetated tree or shrub community on exposed vertical mineral material often associated with rivers and lakeshores. Includes plant communities on slumping river embankments. Wide variety of tree and shrub species can occur but in limited quantities. Vegetation variable in cover. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly exposed mineral material. Substrate texture variable. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Approximately 250m Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Tree or shrub closure sparse. Absolute vegetation cover 25%. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs often present. Communities on vertical surfaces (> 60 or 173%, minimum height of 3 m). Slopes that have been stable for a few years since the last disturbance have more continuous vegetation. Highly variable vegetation consisting of species that are adapted to exposed and highly disturbed materials. Suite of species often reflective of adjacent vegetation community. Typical tree and shrub species include birches, poplars, willows, and Rubus species. Common understory vegetation includes large-leaved aster, fireweed, and Canada blue-joint grass. Moss and lichen cover limited. G004Tt/Tl - sparse treed communities with > 10% tree cover. Low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. G004S - sparse shrub communities with > 10% shrub cover ( 10% tree cover). V2 V3 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Betula spp., Populus spp., Prunus spp., Picea spp., Acer spp., Thuja occidentalis Salix spp., Rubus spp., Alnus spp., Rhus spp. Eurybia macrophyllus, Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Maianthemum stellatum, Equisetum arvense

9 G004Tt\Tl\S Bluff Ecology Instability of substrate limits the permanent establishment of plant communities. Often found on upper parts of steep riverbanks prone to collapse following the undercutting by river currents or because of other cumulative events such as wind erosion, frost-heave or saturation from groundwater seepage. Ecosite maintained by disturbance (slumping). In the absence of disturbance, early successional species may be replaced and the ecosite will likely succeed to a meadow or shrub system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread but uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with large river systems, lakeshores, and areas of unstable substrates of glaciofluvial or glaciolacustrine origins. Edaphic Variability Highly variable in texture and moisture. Often on upper or middle slope positions. Variety and percent cover of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity occur on slopes that have not been disturbed in a number of years. Vegetation composition variable containing a patchy mosaic of active areas with no vegetation adjacent to vegetated areas. Steep slope faces even when vegetated and stable are susceptible to ongoing failure. Related Ecosites N/A N/A , 002 Active 003 Tree/Shrub cover 10% N/A

10 Active Mineral Shoreline G005X Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Exposed mineral material communities associated with the shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. These communities support limited vascular vegetation, bryophytes, and lichen (foliose, fruticose) due to shoreline processes such as waves, currents, periodic flooding, ice scour, and high winds. Substrate texture variable, typically consisting of welldrained, wave-washed sands. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Chemistry RO CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Vegetation Description Vegetation cover is limited and varies seasonally. Absolute vegetation cover 25%. Vascular vegetation 2%. Bryophyte and lichen cover (fruticose, foliose) 10%. Conditions favour annual plants and perennials that develop from rhizomes, detached, or floatable parts. Forb and graminoid species may be present including common cocklebur. Moss and lichen limited. A6 A7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Shrubs Salix spp., Spiraea alba var. alba, Myrica gale Vascular Herbaceous Xanthium strumarium, Barbarea vulgaris, Juncus spp., Agrostis gigantea, Solidago spp.

11 G005X Active Mineral Shoreline Ecology Shoreline processes such as ice, currents, periodic flooding, waves, and high wind have significant impact limiting the distribution and abundance of vegetation. These ecosites are dynamic; growing, shrinking, shifting, or disappearing as water levels change. In the absence of disturbance, grass and shrub dominated areas will develop. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range located along the shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. Abundant on the Great Lakes and exposed shorelines of larger inland lakes. Associated with lacustrine deposits. Edaphic Variability Shoreline communities produce characteristic zonal patterns due to the amount and frequency of wave, currents, periodic flooding, ice, and wind influences. Active mineral shorelines are often found in narrow bands nearest the water where activity is constant. May be adjacent to other shoreline processes (i.e. active eolian sand) or non-active ecosite such as meadows or sparse shrubs systems. Related Ecosites Edatope is not applicable for G005, G006 and G007.

12 Active Eolian Sand G006X Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Exposed mineral material communities often associated with the shorelines of lakes or exposed inland mineral material. These communities support limited vascular vegetation, bryophytes, and lichens (foliose, fruticose) due to eolian (wind) processes. Substrate texture variable. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series A6 A7 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Chemistry k n z Vegetation Description Vegetation cover is limited and varies seasonally. Absolute vegetation cover 25%. Vascular vegetation 2%. Bryophyte and lichen cover (fruticose, foliose) 10%. Conditions favour plants that develop quickly from roots, rhizomes, or vegetative fragments. Species when present are often adapted to withstand burial from wind blown mineral material. Forb and graminoid species may be present including beach grass, creeping wild rye, and sheep s sorrel. Moss and lichen limited. Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Comptonia peregrina Ammophila breviligulata, Elymus repens, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Artemisia campestris ssp. caudata, Anthoxanthum nitens ssp. nitens, Carex pellita

13 G006X Active Eolian Sand Ecology Eolian (wind) processes have significant impact limiting the distribution and abundance of vegetation. These ecosites are dynamic; growing, shrinking, shifting, or disappearing with wind events. May be dunal in shape when associated with shorelines or level or nearly level when found inland. This ecosite can follow a wide variety of disturbances including fire, forestry and agricultural practices and can persist for many years on susceptible substrates such as silty material. In the absence of disturbance, grass and shrub dominated areas will develop. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range located along the shorelines of lakes or inland areas of exposed mineral material or eolian origin. Hudsonia tomentosa (false heather) may be found along the eastern shore of Lake Superior and in the Ottawa Valley. Edaphic Variability Eolian communities produce characteristic zonal patterns due to the amount and frequency of wind events. Active eolian sands may be found adjacent to active mineral shorelines. Vegetation composition variable containing a patchy mosaic of active areas with no vegetation and inclusions of stable habitats consisting of herbaceous and shrub species. Related Ecosites Edatope is not applicable for G005, G006 and G007.

14 Active Mineral Barren G007X Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Ecosite Description Exposed mineral material communities associated with seasonal water erosion events. These communities support limited vascular vegetation, bryophytes, and lichens (foliose, fruticose) due to active processes (e.g., flooding, sheet flow). Substrate texture variable. Mostly deep and xeric or humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Vegetation cover is limited. Absolute vegetation cover 25%. Vascular vegetation 2%. Bryophyte and lichen cover (fruticose, foliose) 10%. Conditions favour plants that develop quickly from roots, rhizomes, or vegetative fragments. Species when present are often adapted to flooding. Forb and graminoid species may be present. A6 A7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Trees Shrubs To Be Determined Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular

15 G007X Active Mineral Barren Ecology Activity limits nutrient and moisture availability. Seasonal water erosion (e.g., flooding, sheet flow) caused by heavy rainfall or snow melting events have a significant impact on this ecosite limiting the distribution and abundance of vegetation. These ecosites are dynamic; growing, shrinking, shifting, or disappearing with water events. This ecosite can follow a wide variety of disturbances including fire, forestry and agricultural practices and can persist for many years on susceptible substrates such as silty material. In the absence of disturbance, grass and shrub dominated areas will develop. Ecoregional Variability Isolated and uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with streams, small rivers, and lakes or inland areas of exposed mineral material. Edaphic Variability Active mineral barrens produce characteristic zonal patterns due to the amount and frequency of flooding events. This ecosite can be found adjacent to rivers and streams or inland. Vegetation composition variable containing a patchy mosaic of active areas with no vegetation and inclusions of stable habitats consisting of herbaceous and shrub species. Rock outcrops common. Related Ecosites Edatope is not applicable for G005, G006 and G

16 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Meadow G008N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Herbaceous, lichen, and/or bryophyte vegetation community. Tree and shrub poor. Ground surface mostly lichen, moss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous, lichen, and/or bryophyte dominated community. Vegetation highly variable consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs often present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present include jack pine, white birch, common juniper, bush honeysuckle, and low sweet blueberry. Herbaceous plants include common hairgrass, poverty oat grass, and Pennsylvania sedge. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include haircap mosses, broom mosses, and grey reindeer lichen. Trees Pinus banksiana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Prunus pensylvanica Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Juniperus communis, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rhus hirta, Rubus spp., Arctostaphylus uva-ursi Deschampsia flexuosa, Danthonia spicata, Carex pensylvanica, Agrostis scabra, Capnoides sempervirens, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Aralia hispida, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum Polytrichum spp., Dicranum spp., Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis, Stereocaulon saxatile, Cladonia spp.

17 G008N Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Meadow Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse vegetative cover. Uniform veneers may support uniform, closed vegetative cover. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as vascular cover becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, vegetation control). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a shrub or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-1, 4E-3, and northern portions of 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E- 4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alder, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet and fowl bluegrass. On calcareous sites bog goldenrod may occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 020 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) 030, 045, 078, 094 Deeper; any texture N/A , 010 Shrub cover > 10% Key 11 Shallower N/A

18 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Sparse Shrub G009S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub community. Tree and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, moss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Vegetation highly variable consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Common tree species include white birch and jack pine. Shrub species include common juniper, low-sweet blueberry, and Rubus species. Herbaceous plants include common hairgrass, poverty oat grass, and bristly sarsaparilla. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include haircap mosses, broom mosses., and grey reindeer lichen. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Quercus rubra, Prunus pensylvanica Juniperus communis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Rhus hirta, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi Deschampsia flexuosa, Danthonia spicata, Aralia hispida, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Carex pensylvanica, Capnoides sempervirens, Agrostis scabra, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Polytrichum spp., Dicranum spp., Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis, Stereocaulon saxatile, Cladonia spp.

19 G009S Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Abundance of lichen increases with more open conditions. Generally very shallow, variation in substrate depth due to underlying bedrock topography. While predominantly coarse textured, increased vegetation diversity and abundance can be expected with finer textures. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-1, 4E-3, and northern portions of 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E- 4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alder, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Ephemeral water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet and fowl bluegrass. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 021 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) 031, 046, 079, 095 Deeper; any texture 008 Shrub cover 10% Shrub cover > 25% Key 11 Shallower N/A

20 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Shrub G010S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, moss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Vegetation highly variable consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Common tree species include white birch and jack pine. Shrub species include common juniper, low-sweet blueberry and Rubus species. Herbaceous plants include common hairgrass, poverty grass, and bristly sarsaparilla. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include haircap mosses, broom mosses, and grey reindeer lichen. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Quercus rubra, Pinus resinosa, Prunus pensylvanica Juniperus communis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Rhus hirta, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi Dechampsia flexuosa, Danthonia spicata, Aralia hispida, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Capnoides sempervirens, Carex pensylvanica, Agrostis scabra, Fragaria virginiana ssp. virginiana Polytrichum spp., Dicranum spp., Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis, Stereocaulon saxatile, Cladonia spp.

21 G010S Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh, Shrub Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Abundance of lichen increases with more open conditions. Generally very shallow, variation in substrate depth due to underlying bedrock topography. While predominantly coarse textured, increased vegetation diversity and abundance can be expected with finer textures. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-1, 4E-3, and northern portions of 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E- 4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Ephemeral water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet and fowl bluegrass. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 022 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) 032, 047, 080, 096 Deeper; any texture 008, 009 Shrub cover 25% 010 Key 11 Shallower N/A

22 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G011Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain red maple, red oak, balsam fir, hemlock, and black spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub moderately poor. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, lichen, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Chemistry k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure higly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, wintergreen, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, wild sarsaparilla, Schreber's moss, and wavy-leaved moss. Often contains Central v-types V32, V34, V40, and V33; NE v-types V6 and V18. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, Pinus resinosa, Acer rubrum, Quercus rubra, Abies balsamea, Tsuga canadensis, Picea mariana Vaccinium angustifolium, Gaultheria procumbens, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare, Cladina rangiferina

23 G011Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, trembling aspen, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory and the abundance of red pine decreases. Hemlock, oak species, ironwood, and large-tooth aspen are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alder, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 033, 048, 081, 097 Deeper; any texture 023 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 011 Key 11 Shallower

24 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G012Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may include components of eastern white pine, and red pine. May contain balsam fir and white birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce, balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub moderately poor. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, lichen, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Pine species and/or black spruce compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, creeping snowberry, bunchberry, wild lily-of-thevalley, bluebead-lily, Schreber's moss, wavy-leaved moss, and reindeer lichens. Often contains Central v-types V39 V32, and V40; NE v-types V17, V20-22, V18, V23, and V7. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, (Pinus strobus, P. resinosa), Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Gaultheria hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Pteridium aquilinum Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina, Cladonia coniocraea

25 G012Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Abundance of lichen also increases with increased likelihood of jack pine. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to hardwoods with some balsam fir and black spruce. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-1, 4E-3, and northern portions of 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E- 4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 035, 050, 083, 099 Deeper; any texture 034, 049, 082, 098 Pure Sb and Pj condition; deeper; any texture 024 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 012 Key 11 Shallower

26 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G013Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern hemlock and eastern white cedar. May contain white birch, yellow birch, balsam fir, sugar maple, red maple, trembling aspen, and eastern white pine. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, lichen, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Eastern hemlock and/or eastern white cedar compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, starflower, false pixie cup, powder horn lichen, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V19; NE v-types V16. Trees Shrubs RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Thuja occidentalis, Tsuga canadensis, Betula papyrifera, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Sorbus decora Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer pensylvanicum CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis, Dryopteris carthusiana Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, Pleurozium schreberi

27 G013Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar / eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure stands of eastern hemlock restricted to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on cooler middle and lower slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alder, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lanceleaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 036, 051, 084, 100 Deeper; any texture 025 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 013 Key 11 Shallower

28 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Conifer G014Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of balsam fir, white spruce and/or other conifer species. May be mixed with white birch, trembling aspen, and red maple. Stand composition is highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Shrub and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, lichen, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative cover is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, low sweet blueberry, beaked hazel, wild lilyof-the-valley, bluebead-lily, spinulose wood fern, Schreber's moss, false pixie cup, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V24, V37; NE v-types V21. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Thuja occidentalis, Picea mariana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum, Sorbus decora Acer spicatum, Vaccinium angustifolium, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Cornus canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, Plagiothecium laetum

29 G014Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Deeper folic material may develop over time in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. When the underlying bedrock is calcareous components of this ecosite may be subjected to seasonal flooding with severe and prolonged summer droughts creating distinctive vegetation types (alvars). Plant species in this vegetation type may include Cooper s milk-vetch, Crawe s sedge, lance-leaved tickseed, and compressed spike-rush. Related Ecosites 038, 053, 086, 101 Deeper; any texture 026 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 014 Key 11 Shallower

30 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Profile/Slope Sequence G015Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of red pine and/or eastern white pine. May contain red oak, large-tooth aspen, red maple, white birch, and trembling aspen. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red oak, white pine, red maple, balsam fir, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite is mostly hardwood (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, beaked hazel, wintergreen, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, large-leaved aster, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V34; NE v-types V2, V1, V4, and V6. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Quercus rubra, Populus grandidentata, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides Vaccinium angustifolium, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria procumbens, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Oryzopsis asperfolia Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Pleurozium schreberi

31 G015Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Related Ecosites 039, 054, 087, 103 Deeper; any texture 027 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 015 Key 11 Shallower N/A

32 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Profile/Slope Sequence G016Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain sugar maple, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, low sweet blueberry, bush honeysuckle, large-leaved aster, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, Schreber's moss, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V24; NE v-types V1 and V4. Trees k n z Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Eurybia macrophyllus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

33 G016Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of a disturbance regime, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood with components of pine, red oak, red maple, and sugar maple. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Large-tooth aspen more common on warmer upper slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines), pin cherry, whitegrained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Related Ecosites 040, 055, 088, 104 Deeper; any texture 028 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 016 Key 11 Shallower N/A

34 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Oak Hardwood G017Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak. May contain sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, white ash, eastern white pine, large-tooth aspen, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, ironwood, red oak, balsam fir, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, bush honeysuckle, serviceberries, large-leaved aster, wild lily-of-the-valley, hairy Solomon's seal, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V6 and V34. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular k n z Quercus rubra (Q. macrocarpa, Q. alba), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Ostyra virginiana, Tilia americana, Fraxinus americana, Pinus strobus, Populus grandidentata, Acer rubrum Acer pensylvanicum, Diervilla lonicera, Amelanchier spp., Gaultheria procumbens, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Lonicera canadensis Eurybia macrophyllus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Polygonatum pubescens, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum, Oryzopsis asperfolia, Carex pensylvanica Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, Pleurozium schreberi CX AN

35 G017Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest or upper slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, whitegrained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Related Ecosites 041, 057, 090, 106 Deeper; any texture 028 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 017 Key 11 Shallower N/A

36 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Maple Hardwood G018Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple and red maple likely in the main canopy. May contain American basswood, ironwood, American beech, white ash, eastern white pine, and white birch. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, balsam fir, red oak, white ash and American beech. Shrub poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, rose-twisted stalk, wild lily-of-the-valley, and false Solomon's seal. Non-vascular vegetation may include powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-type V6; NE v-type V3 and V4. Trees Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Tilia americana, Ostrya virginiana, Fagus grandifolia, Fraxinus americana, Pinus strobus, Betula papyrifera CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Dirca palustris Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, M. racemosum ssp. racemosum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Cladonia coniocraea

37 G018Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Red maple dominated forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Related Ecosites 042, 058, 091, 107 Deeper; any texture 028 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 018 Key 11 Shallower N/A

38 Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Mixedwood G019Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, American beech, American basswood, red oak, white birch, red maple, ironwood, balsam fir, and yellow birch. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, American beech, American basswood, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderate rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and exposed bedrock. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR 3) or xeric. Substrate Description Substrate Series VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, beaked hazel, serviceberries, spinulose wood fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, and wild sarsaparilla. Non-vascular species may include reflexed Brachythecium moss and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-type V6 and V24; NE v-types V1 and V2. Trees Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Fagus grandifolia, Tilia americana, Quercus rubra, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Ostrya virginiana, Abies balsamea, Betula alleghaniensis Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Amelanchier spp.., Viburnum lantanoides, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis Dryopteris carthusiana, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Oryzopsis asperfolia Non-vascular Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

39 G019Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Dry to Fresh: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range, uncommon in 4E-1 and 4E-3. More abundant on the landscape as you move further south. Generally on coarse textured morainal veneer with pockets of glaciofluvial material. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, sugar maple, balsam fir and ironwood is more frequent in 5E. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on crest, upper slope, or level slope positions. Deeper and silty materials likely on lower and toe slope positions. While predominantly coarse textured, a wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate, finer texture, or over base-rich bedrock. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Related Ecosites 043, 059, 092, 108 Deeper; any texture 028 Moister (not dry, fresh or xeric) N/A 019 Key 11 Shallower N/A

40 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Humid: Meadow G020N Ecosite Description Herbaceous, lichen, and/or bryophyte vegetation community. Tree and shrub poor. Ground surface mostly lichen, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and humid (MR = h). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous, lichen, and/or bryophyte dominated community. Shallow substrates limit vegetation to a highly variable mix consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs often present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present include jack pine, white birch, common juniper, bush honeysuckle, and low sweet blueberry. Herbaceous species include Canada mayflower, Pennsylvania sedge, and large-leaved aster. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include grey reindeer lichen, haircap mosses, and broom mosses. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Prunus pensylvanica, Juniperus communis, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rhus hirta, Rubus spp., Arctostaphylus uva-ursi Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Carex pensylvanica, Eurybia macrophyllus, Agrostis scabra, Capnoides sempervirens, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Aralia hispida, Pteridium aquilinum Cladina rangiferina, Polytrichum spp., Dicranum spp., Cladina mitis, Stereocaulon saxatile, Cladonia spp., Pleurozium schreberi

41 G020N Very Shallow, Humid: Meadow Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse vegetative cover. Uniform veneers may support uniform, closed vegetative cover. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as vascular cover becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, vegetation control). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a shrub or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers and organic deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Ephemeral water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet, fowl bluegrass, bog goldenrod, and broom sedge. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites 061, 110 Deeper; any texture N/A , 022 Shrub cover > 10% Key 11 Shallower 008 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric; not humid)

42 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Humid: Sparse Shrub G021S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and humid (MR = h). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Vegetation highly variable consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Common tree species include white birch and jack pine. Shrub species include common juniper, low-sweet blueberry, and Rubus species. Herbaceous plants include Canada mayflower, large-leaved aster, and wild sarsaparilla. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include Cladina lichens, haircap mosses., and Schreber s moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Quercus rubra, Pinus resinosa, Prunus pensylvanica Juniperus communis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera dioca, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Capnoides sempervirens, Carex pensylvanica, Agrostis scabra Cladina spp., Dicranum spp., Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum spp.

43 G021S Very Shallow, Humid: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse vegetative cover. Uniform veneers may support uniform, closed vegetative cover. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as vascular cover becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G022) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers and organic deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Ephemeral water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet, fowl bluegrass, bog goldenrod, and broom sedge. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites 062, 111 Deeper; any texture 020 Shrub cover 10% Shrub cover > 25% Key 11 Shallower 009 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric; not humid)

44 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Humid: Shrub G022S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock. Substrate texture variable. Mostly very shallow ( 15 cm) and humid (MR = h). Substrate Description Substrate Series VS1 VS2 O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Vegetation highly variable consisting of opportunistic, drought tolerant species generally restricted to crevices and areas of shallow substrates. Characteristic suite of common species of dry sites present. Common tree species include white birch and jack pine. Shrub species include common juniper, low-sweet blueberry, and Rubus species. Herbaceous plants include Canada mayflower, large-leaved aster, and wild sarsaparilla. Lichen and moss cover is often high and include Cladina lichens, haircap mosses, and Schreber s moss. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Quercus rubra, Pinus resinosa, Prunus pensylvanica, Juniperus communis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Capnoides sempervirens, Carex pensylvanica, Agrostis scabra, Anaphalis margaritacea Cladina spp., Dicranum spp., Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum spp.

45 G022S Very Shallow, Humid: Shrub Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse vegetative cover. Uniform veneers may support uniform, closed vegetative cover. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as vascular cover becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers and organic deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. Ephemeral water pools may be present containing narrow-leaved meadowsweet, fowl bluegrass, bog goldenrod, and broom sedge. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites 063, 112 Deeper; any texture 020, 021 Shrub cover 25% 022 Key 11 Shallower 010 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric; not humid)

46 Very Shallow, Humid: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G023Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain black spruce, jack pine, red maple and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and eastern white pine. Shrub moderately poor. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, lichen, and exposed bedrock. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, wintergreen, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, bracken fern, Schreber's moss, and wavyleaved moss. Often contains Central v-types V29; NE v-types V18 and V1. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, (P. resinosa), Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, Acer rubrum, Thuja occidentalis Vaccinium angustifolium, Gaultheria procumbens, Diervilla lonicera, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Pteridium aquilinum, Cornus canadensis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina, Dicranum ontariense, Spaghnum girgensohnii

47 G023Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, trembling aspen, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory and the abundance of red pine decreases. Hemlock, oak species, ironwood, and large-tooth aspen are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 023 Key 11 Shallower 011 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

48 Very Shallow, Humid: Black Spruce - Pine Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G024Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of pine and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may include eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain white spruce, white birch, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black spruce, and red maple. Shrub and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, lichen, and exposed bedrock. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Humus Form Moisture Regime Moisture Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Θ x h s d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Pine species and/or black spruce compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, wintergreen, wild lily-of-the-valley, bunchberry, bluebead-lily, wavy-leaved moss, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V40 V33, V37, V41, and V39; NE v-types V15, V17-20, and V22-V27. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, Pinus strobus, (P. resinosa), Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Gaultheria procumbens Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis, Pteridium aquilinum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Dicranum polysetum, Pleurozium schreberi, Cladina rangiferina

49 G024Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Black Spruce - Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Abundance of lichen also increases with increased likelihood of jack pine. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to hardwoods with some balsam fir and black spruce. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fir. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 024 Key 11 Shallower 012 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

50 Very Shallow, Humid: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G025Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern hemlock and eastern white cedar. May contain red maple, American basswood, eastern white pine, white birch, and yellow birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of eastern white cedar, eastern hemlock, balsam fir, and red maple. Shrub poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock, may include Sphagnum species. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Humus Form Moisture Regime Moisture Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO O1 O2 O3 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Θ x h s d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Eastern hemlock and/or eastern white cedar compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, striped maple, mountain maple, wild sarsaparilla, wild lilyof-the-valley, spinulose wood fern, Schreber's moss, and Brachythecium species. Often contains Central v-types V15, V19, and V37; NE v-types V14 and V16. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis, Acer rubrum, Tilia americana, Pinus strobus, Betula papyrifera, B. alleghaniensis, Sorbus decora Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Acer spicatum Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Dryopteris carthusiana, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus Pleurozium schreberi, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Callicladium haldanianum

51 G025Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar / eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure stands of eastern hemlock restricted to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 025 Key 11 Shallower 013 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

52 Profile/Slope Sequence Very Shallow, Humid: Conifer G026Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of balsam fir, white spruce and/or other conifer species. May be mixed with white birch, trembling aspen, and red maple. Stand composition is highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Shrub poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, and exposed bedrock, may include Sphagnum species. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Humus Form Moisture Regime Moisture Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 O3 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Θ x h s d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative cover is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, large-leaved aster, glossy moss, and beautiful branch moss. Often contains Central v-types V9 and V22; NE v-types V1, V2, and V14-V16. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea glauca, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Populus tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Fraxinus nigra, Betula alleghaniensis Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Rubus pubescens, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Galium triflorum, Cornus canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum Plagiothecium laetum, Callicladium haldanianum, Pleurozium schreberi

53 G026Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Conifer Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Deeper folic material may develop in the absence of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 026 Key 11 Shallower 014 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

54 Very Shallow, Humid: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Profile/Slope Sequence G027Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of red pine and/or eastern white pine. May contain red oak, large-tooth aspen, red maple, white birch, sugar maple, and trembling aspen. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red oak, white pine, red maple, balsam fir, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, exposed bedrock, and feathermoss. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Ecosite is mostly hardwood (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, beaked hazel, wintergreen, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, large-leaved aster, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V34; NE v-types V1 and V4. Trees Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Quercus rubra, Populus grandidentata, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Populus tremuloides CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Vaccinium angustifolium, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria procumbens, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera, Acer pensylvanicum Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Oryzopsis asperfolia Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Pleurozium schreberi

55 G027Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 027 Key 11 Shallower 015 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

56 Very Shallow, Humid: Mixedwood G028Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of red maple, sugar maple, trembling aspen, balsam fir, red oak, and eastern hemlock. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, red maple, and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Herb moderate rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, exposed bedrock, and feathermoss. Substrate rock or organic. Depth rock, shallow or deep organic and humid. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Humus Form Moisture Regime Moisture Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Θ x h s d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z CX AN Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure highly variable, generally open where substrate depth is limited. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees or very limited substrate depth. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, striped maple, low sweet blueberry, starflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, rose twisted-stalk, spinulose wood fern, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V6 and V24; NE v-types V1, V4, V5, V7, V8, and V10- V13. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Tsuga canadensis, Quercus rubra, Fraxinus americana, Fagus grandifolia, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Ostrya virginiana, Pinus banksiana Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Vaccinium angustifolium, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Streptopus lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum scoparium, Cladonia chlorophaea

57 G028Tt/Tl Very Shallow, Humid: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate depth restricts rooting zone, moisture, and nutrient availability resulting in limited plant growth potential and increasing windthrow risk. Variable sized patches of exposed bedrock may result in sparse canopy. Uniform veneers may support a more consistent, closed canopy. Shrub and herb poor when canopy closed. Ground cover, notably lichen, increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to fire and disturbance regimes, that does not provide sufficient time for organic matter development. Generally on bedrock controlled sites, with shallow veneers, and organic deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Calcareous veneers (4E-5) and bedrock (5E-3, 5E-11), base-rich bedrock (5E-6 and 5E-13), as well as finer textured substrates in 5E-4 and 5E-5 may increase diversity and vigour of the understory. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, sugar maple, balsam fir and ironwood is more frequent in 5E. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically very shallow. However highly variable in stoniness, depth, texture, and moisture especially in morainal deposits over bedrock. Underlying bedrock topography results in exposed bedrock outcrops, variation in substrate depth, and inclusions of bedrock controlled wetlands. High spatial Variability results in a complex of very shallow and rock barren systems. Often on low, toe, or level slope positions. Substrate may be humid folic/peaty material. Black spruce, tamarack, eastern white cedar, mixed lowland hardwoods, alders, Labrador tea, and Sphagnum likely in poorly drained depressions where pockets of deep peat or wet mineral material may also occur. A wide variety of tree species as well as increased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Often partially treed areas supporting xeric vegetation including pines, pin cherry, white-grained mountain-rice, and lichens likely on exposed bedrock. Increased species diversity and abundance likely on inclusions of deep mineral substrate or over base-rich bedrock. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 028 Key 11 Shallower 019 Drier (dry, fresh or xeric: not humid)

58 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Field G029N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate texture sandy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry (MR = Θ, 0, or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Common agricultural plants include rye and barley. In addition a variable composition of early succession vascular plants including common yarrow, orchard grass, and common St. John s-wort can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Secale cereale, Hordeum vulgare, Achillea millefolium ssp. millefolium, Dactylis glomerata, Hypericum perforatum ssp. perforatum, Elymus repens, Trifolium pratense, Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Bromus inermis, Festuca trachyphylla, Erigeron canadensis, Lotus corniculatus

59 G029N Dry, Sandy: Field Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. Frequently maintained as a pasture rather than an agricultural crop field due to substrate limitations. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G030). Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range. More abundant closer to human settlements on managed landscapes. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Depth of coarse material deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Tree and shrub species often restricted to moister areas. Increased species diversity may occur over baserich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions as well as decreased herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Areas of bare sands likely in eolian deposits. Microtopography generally smooth where plowing has occurred. Heavily grazed fields may contain tramping and bare patches as well as areas of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites 060 Moister N/A , 077, 093 Finer textured 030, 031, 032 No evidence of agriculture or plowing N/A

60 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Meadow G030N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) vegetation community. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate texture sandy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry (MR = Θ, 0, or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependent on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, pin cherry, and serviceberries. Herbaceous species include poverty oat grass, bracken fern, and awnless broom. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Pinus banksiana, Prunus pensylvanica, Picea glauca, Pinus strobus Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis, Comptonia peregrina Danthonia spicata, Pteridium aquilinum, Bromus inermis, Elymus repens, Cerastium fontanum ssp. vulgare, Oenothera biennis, Poa spp., Hypericum perforatum ssp. perforatum, Solidago nemoralis ssp. nemoralis, S. juncea, Anaphalis margaritacea, Hieracium spp., Medicago lupulina Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis

61 G030N Dry, Sandy: Meadow Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plough layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, vegetation control). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape closer to human settlements. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. An increased diversity of grape fern species is found along the shore of Lake Superior due to high relative humidity. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Depth of coarse material deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Tree and shrub species often restricted to moister areas. Increased species diversity may occur over baserich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions as well as decreased herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Areas of bare sand may occur in eolian deposits. Microtopography generally smooth where ploughing has occurred. Related Ecosites 061 Moister 029 Evidence of agriculture or continuous plowing , 078, 094 Finer textured 031, 032 Increased shrub cover 008 Shallower

62 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Sparse Shrub G031S Not Available Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, and moss. Substrate texture sandy. Mostly deep (> 15 cm) and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO Approximately 250m S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s CX AN Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, open-grown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include jack pine and white birch. Shrub species may include serviceberries, upland willow, and speckled alder. Common herbaceous plants include poverty oat grass, quackgrass, and evening primrose. Lichen and moss cover may include haircap mosses and fire moss. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Prunus pensylvanica Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis, Alnus incana spp. rugosa, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium spp., Gaultheria hispidula, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi, Chimaphila umbellata ssp. umbellata, Comptonia peregrina Danthonia spicata, Elymus repens, Oenothera biennis, Hypericum perforatum ssp. perforatum, Pteridium aquilinum, Solidago nemoralis ssp. nemoralis, S. juncea, Anaphalis margaritacea, Botrychium multifidium, Hieracium spp., Medicago lupulina Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis

63 G031S Dry, Sandy: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G032) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape closer to human settlements. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Staghorn sumac may occur east of Lake Superior. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Depth of coarse material deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions as well as decreased herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 062 Moister 029, 030 Shrub cover 10% , 079, 095 Finer textured 032 Shrub cover > 25% 009 Shallower

64 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Shrub G032S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub community. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, coarse woody debris, lichen, and moss. Substrate texture sandy. Mostly deep (> 15 cm) and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include jack pine and eastern white pine. Shrub species may include pin cherry, serviceberries, and upland willow. Common herbaceous plants include common St. John swort, pearly everlasting, and Canada mayflower. Lichen and moss cover may include Schreber s moss, powder horn lichen, and spiky dicranum moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Pinus strobus, Pinus resinosa, Quercus rubra, Q. alba, Betula papyrifera Vaccinium myrtilloides, V. angustifolium, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi, Alnus incana spp. rugosa, Salix humilis, Diervilla lonicera, Gaultheria procumbens, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Hypericum perforatum ssp. perforatum, Anaphalis margaritacea, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Oenothera biennis, Solidago nemoralis ssp. nemoralis, Pteridium aquilinum, Eurybia macrophyllus Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum polysetum, Polytrichum spp.

65 G032S Dry, Sandy: Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance may succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape closer to human settlements. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Staghorn sumac (Rhus hirta) may occur east of Lake Superior. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Depth of coarse material deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation as well as decreased herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 063 Moister 029, 030, 031 Shrub cover 25% , 080, 096 Finer textured 010 Shallower

66 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Red Pine- White Pine Conifer G033Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain white spruce, white birch, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, and lichen. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (>10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (>50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from pure stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, low sweet blueberry, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, bracken fern, Schreber's moss, powder horn lichen, and spiky dicranum. Often contains Central v-types V29, V31, V32, and V30; NE v-types V6, V18, V7, and V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Lonicera canadensis, Gaultheria procumbens, Vaccinium myrtilloides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Pteridium aquilinum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Oryzopsis asperifolia Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum polysetum

67 G033Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically noncalcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 048 Moister N/A , 081, 097 Finer textured 011 Shallower

68 Dry, Sandy: Jack Pine Black Spruce Dominated G034Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of jack pine and/or black spruce. May contain white birch, trembling aspen and balsam fir. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black spruce, and red maple. Shrubs moderately poor, typically abundant ericaceous shrubs. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, and lichen. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (>10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Jack pine and/or black spruce and/or white birch 90% and white birch 20%. Ecosite variable from pure stands of jack pine and/or black spruce to a mixed condition with both. Common understory vegetation includes velvetleaf blueberry, low sweet blueberry, twinflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, bunchberry, bracken fern, Schreber's moss, wavy-leaved moss, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v- types V39, V40, V30, V33, and V24; and NE v-types V21, V17, V18, V20, V16, and V15. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Picea glauca Vaccinium myrtilloides, V. angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Diervilla lonicera, Gaultheria procumbens, Epigaea repens, Gaultheria hispidula, Amelanchier sanguinea Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Cornus canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina, Cladonia coniocraea

69 G034Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Jack Pine Black Spruce Dominated Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. High intensity fire in jack pine dominated communities, produce even aged, nearly pure stands of jack pine. In black spruce communities high intensity fire permits the quick re-establishment of black spruce along with pines and hardwood species such as white birch and aspen. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E and northern portions of 5E. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 049 Moister N/A , 082, 098 Finer textured 035 Increased diversity 012 Shallower

70 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer G035Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of pine and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may include components of eastern white pine, red pine, and Scotch pine. May contain trembling aspen, white birch, balsam fir, white spruce, and eastern white pine. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black spruce, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub moderately poor. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, feathermoss, and other mosses. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Humus Form Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (>10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Pine species and/or black spruce compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, bush honeysuckle, twinflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, bunchberry, wild sarsaparilla, Schreber's moss, wavy-leaved moss, and curly heron's-bill moss. Often contains Central v-types V24, V39, and V40; NE v-types V8, V20, V7, V13, V17, and V22. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, (P. resinosa, P. sylvestris), Populus tremuloides, Picea mariana, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Pinus strobus Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria hispidula Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Cornus canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Pteridium aquilinum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, D. fuscescens var. fuscescens, Ptilidium pulcherrimum

71 G035Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E and northern portions of 5E. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 050 Moister 034 Decreased diversity; near pure Sb/Pj , 083, 099 Finer textured 012 Shallower

72 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Hemlock Cedar Conifer G036Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern hemlock and eastern white cedar. May contain yellow birch, white birch, balsam fir, eastern white pine, red maple, white spruce, and sugar maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, eastern hemlock, eastern white cedar, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, deciduous litter, feathermoss, other mosses, and lichen. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Eastern hemlock and/or eastern white cedar compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, striped maple, starflower, spinulose wood fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, woodsy mnium moss, powder horn lichen, and spiky dicranum moss. Often contains Central v-types V19, V17, V15, V18, V21, and V37; NE v- types V14 and V16. Trees RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis, Betula alleghaniensis, B. papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Pinus strobus, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca, Acer saccharum var. saccharum CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, A. pensylvanicum, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria procumbens Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Plagiothecium laetum, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata

73 G036Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Hemlock Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar/eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure stands of eastern hemlock restricted to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 051 Moister N/A , 084, 100 Finer textured 013 Shallower

74 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Spruce - Fir Conifer G037Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of spruce and balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, yellow birch, and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white spruce, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter and broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Spruce species and/or balsam fir compose > 50% or the conifer tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, beaked hazel, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, bunchberry, powder horn lichen, woodsy mnium moss, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V26 and V37; NE v-types V8, V7, V1, V2, V14-16, and V19. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea glauca, (P. rubens), Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Betula alleghaniensis, Thuja occidentalis, Prunus serotina ssp. serotina, Acer rubrum, Pinus banksiana, Populus grandidentata, Pinus strobus, Picea mariana Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Lonicera canadensis, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium myrtilloides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Coptis trifolia, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Pleurozium schreberi, Callicladium haldanianum, Dicranum polysetum

75 G037Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, red maple, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch, black cherry, and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 052 Moister N/A , 085, 101 Finer textured 014 Shallower

76 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Conifer G038Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of black spruce, balsam fir, eastern white cedar, white spruce, white birch, trembling aspen, red maple, sugar maple, and yellow birch. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white cedar. Shrub and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of mosses. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes velvet-leaf blueberry, wintergreen, beaked hazel, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, starflower, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v- types V24 and V26; NE v-types V7, V1, V2, V14-16, and V22.. Trees Shrubs k n z Picea mariana, Abies balsamea, Thuja occidentalis, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis Vaccinium myrtilloides, Gaultheria procumbens, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Dicranum flagellare, Cladonia chlorophaea

77 G038Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 053 Moister N/A , 086, 102 Finer textured 014 Shallower

78 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood G039Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of red pine and/or eastern white pine. May contain trembling aspen, white birch, red maple, balsam fir, and large-tooth aspen. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, sugar maple, balsam fir, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, beaked hazel, low sweet blueberry, fly honeysuckle, starflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, bluebead-lily, large-leaved aster, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V25, V28, V29, V27, V23, and V34; NE v-types V2, V1, V4, and V6. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, (P. resinosa), Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Abies balsamea, Populus grandidentata, Picea glauca Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Clintonia borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Cornus canadensis Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum flagellare

79 G039Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance and shrub and herb diversity decreases with increasing canopy closure. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present in 4E-1 and 4E-3. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 054 Moister N/A , 087, 103 Finer textured 015 Shallower

80 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Aspen Birch Hardwood G040Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain sugar maple, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate to high levels of balsam fir, red maple, sugar maple, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, bracken fern, powder horn lichen, and glossy moss. May contain Central v-types V25, V12, V23, V28, V14, V20- V22, and V24; NE v-types V8, V7, V4, V6, V12, and V5. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Populus tremuloides, (P. grandidentata), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera, Acer pensylvanicum, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Amelanchier spp. Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Clintonia borealis, Pteridium aquilinum Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum flagellare, Cladonia chlorophaea

81 G040Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Aspen Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance and shrub and herb diversity decreases with increasing canopy closure. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 055 Moister N/A , 088, 104 Finer textured 016 Shallower

82 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Oak Hardwood G041Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak. May contain sugar maple, white ash, American beech, ironwood, red maple, and trembling aspen. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, balsam fir, and red oak. Shrub poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, striped maple, twinflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, white-grained mountain-rice, wild sarsaparilla, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V5, V3, and V6. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular k n z Quercus rubra, (Q. alba, Q. macrocarpa), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Fraxinus americana, Fagus grandifolia, Ostrya virginiana, Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Oryzopsis asperifolia, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum, Dryopteris carthusiana Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare, Callicladium haldanianum, Dicranum montanum CX AN

83 G041Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance and shrub and herb diversity decreases with increasing canopy closure. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common through 5E, climatically limited to southern portions of 4E across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 057 Moister N/A , 090, 106 Fine textured 017 Shallower

84 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry, Sandy: Maple Hardwood G042Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple and red maple likely in the main canopy. May contain yellow birch, red oak, ironwood, and eastern hemlock. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, balsam fir, red maple and red oak. Shrub poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, lichens, and feathermoss. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, striped maple, fly honeysuckle, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, twinflower, powder horn lichen, and Brachythecium species. May contain Central v-types V1-5, V10, V11, and V14-17; NE v-types V2-V4, and V6-V8. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular k n z Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum, Quercus rubra, Ostrya virginiana, Tsuga canadensis, Fraxinus americana, Picea glauca, Populus tremuloides, Tilia americana, Abies balsamea Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Taxus canadensis Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Polygonatum pubescens Cladonia coniocraea, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, B. salebrosum var. salebrosum, Callicladium haldanianum, Plagiothecium laetum CX AN

85 G042Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance and shrub and herb diversity decreases with increasing canopy closure. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common through 5E, climatically limited to southern portions of 4E across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Red maple dominated forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 058 Moister N/A , 091, 107 Finer textured 018 Shallower

86 Dry, Sandy: Mixedwood G043Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, American beech, American basswood, red oak, white birch, red maple, ironwood, and yellow birch. Stand composition is highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, balsam fir, ironwood, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate sandy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry (MR = Θ, 0 or 1). Substrate Description Substrate Series S1 M1 M2 MD1 MD2 D1 D2 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, mountain maple, beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, starflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V1, V4, V12, V3, and V5; NE v- types V1, V2, V4, V6-V8, and V15. Trees Shrubs Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Quercus rubra, Ostrya virginiana, Tilia americana, Fraxinus americana, Populus grandidentata, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, B. alleghaniensis, Ulmus americana Acer pensylvanicum, A. spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Dirca palustris Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, Callicladium haldanianum

87 G043Tt/Tl Dry, Sandy: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates very rapid to rapid drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance and shrub and herb diversity decreases with increasing canopy closure. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant as you move further south. Generally associated with flat to rolling glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Can also occur on morainal, glaciolacustrine, lacustrine, alluvial, or eolian deposits. Typically non-calcareous. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, sugar maple, balsam fir and ironwood is more frequent in 5E. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically low in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable. Often on level, low, and middle slopes. Increased species diversity may occur over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fresh, moist and finer textured substrates in depressions or lower slope positions. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity may occur on shallow to moderately deep substrates and very coarse sands. Related Ecosites 059 Moister N/A , 092, 108 Finer textured 019 Shallower

88 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Field G044N Not Available Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3 if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Approximately 250m S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Common agricultural plants include rye and barley. In addition a variable composition of early succession vascular plants including common yarrow, orchard grass, and common St. John s-wort can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Secale cereale, Hordeum vulgare, Achillea millefolium, Dactylis glomerata, Hypericum perforatum ssp. perforatum, Elymus repens, Trifolium pratense, Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Bromus inermis, Festuca trachyphylla, Erigeron canadensis, Hieracium spp., Lotus corniculatus

89 G044N Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Field Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. The texture facilitates rapid to moderately well drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G045). Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Microtopography generally smooth where ploughing has occurred. Tramping and bare patches may occur in heavily grazed fields as well as areas of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites 060 Moister 029 Coarser textured , 093 Finer textured 045, 046, 047 No evidence of agriculture or plowing 029 Drier

90 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Meadow G045N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) vegetation community. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3 if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependant on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, serviceberries, and upland willow. Herbaceous species may include timothy, awnless brome, and ox-eyed daisy. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Prunus pensylvanica Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Bromus inermis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Tragopogon pratensis ssp. pratensis, Silene vulgaris, Vicia cracca, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Achillea millefolium, Hieracium spp., Solidago spp. Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis

91 G045N Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Meadow Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates rapid to moderately well drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, vegetation control). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a sparse shrub (G046). Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Tree and shrub species often restricted to moister areas. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 061 Moister 030 Coarser textured 044 Evidence of agriculture or continuous plowing , 094 Finer textured 046, 047 Increased shrub cover 008 Shallower 030 Drier

92 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Sparse Shrub G046S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3 if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include white birch and jack pine. Shrub species may include serviceberries, upland willow, and sweet fern. Common herbaceous plants include timothy grass, smooth brome, and ox-eyed daisy. Lichen and moss cover may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Pinus resinosa, Quercus rubra, Prunus pensylvancia, Populus grandidentata Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis, Comptonia peregrina, Vaccinium spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Diervilla lonicera, Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Rubus spp. Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Bromus inermis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Tragopogon pratensis ssp. pratensis, Silene vulgaris, Vicia cracca, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Achillea millefolium, Hieracium spp., Solidago spp. Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis

93 G046S Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates rapid to moderately well drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G047) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 062 Moister 031 Coarser textured 044, 045 Shrub cover 10% , 095 Finer textured 047 Shrub cover > 25% 009 Shallower 031 Drier

94 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Shrub G047S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter, lichen, and moss. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Deep (> 15 cm) and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3 if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include jack pine and eastern white pine. Shrub species may include serviceberries, upland willow, and sweet fern. Common herbaceous plants include poverty oat grass, quackgrass, and evening primrose. Lichen and moss cover may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, P. strobus, Quercus rubra, Q. alba, Pinus resinosa, Betula papyrifera, Prunus pensylvanica Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis, Comptonia peregrina, Vaccinium spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Diervilla lonicera, Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Rubus spp. Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Bromus inermis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Tragopogon pratensis ssp. pratensis, Silene vulgaris, Vicia cracca, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosella ssp. acetosella, Achillea millefolium, Hieracium spp., Solidago spp. Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Cladina rangiferina, C. mitis

95 G047S Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity. The texture facilitates rapid to moderately well drainage and may limit species diversity, abundance, and growth potential. Ecosite is susceptible to drought. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Vegetation adapted to xeric conditions such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 063 Moister 032 Coarser textured 044, 045, 046 Shrub cover 25% , 095 Finer textured 010 Shallower 032 Drier

96 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G048Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain white spruce, white birch, balsam fir, large-tooth aspen, red maple, and trembling aspen. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub moderately poor. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure generally closed. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifers. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, beaked hazel, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, wild sarsaparilla, and Schreber's moss. May contains Central v-types V29, V31, V30, V32, V25, V28, V27, and V40; NE v-type V6. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous k n z Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Populus grandidentata, Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides Vaccinium angustifolium, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Diervilla lonicera, Gaultheria procumbens, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Lonicera canadensis Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Cornus canadensis CX AN Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina

97 G048Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increase and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a spruce and balsam fir or mixedwood ecosite near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 064, 113 Moister 033 Coarser textured , 097, 113 Finer textured 011 Shallower 033 Drier

98 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Dominated Profile/Slope Sequence G049Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy dominated by jack pine and black spruce. May contain white birch, balsam fir, red pine, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of black spruce, balsam fir, and white birch. Shrub moderately poor, ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Jack pine, black spruce, and/or white birch compose 90% or more of the tree species but white birch is 20% of tree species cover. Ecosite variable from pure stands of jack pine and/or black spruce to a mixed condition with both. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, creeping snowberry, bunchberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V39, V40, and V33; NE v-types V20, V17, V21, V18, and V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Pinus resinosa, P. strobus, Populus tremuloides Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Gaultheria hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Diervilla lonicera, Epigaea repens Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina

99 G049Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Dominated Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Presence of lichen increases with increased likelihood of jack pine and more open conditions. Feathermoss abundant under a closed canopy. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. High intensity fire in jack pine dominated communities, produce even aged, nearly pure stands of jack pine. In black spruce communities high intensity fire permits the quick re-establishment of black spruce along with pines and hardwood species such as white birch and aspen. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 034 Coarser textured , 098, 114 Finer textured 050 Increased diversity 012 Shallower 034 Drier

100 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G050Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may also include eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain white birch, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor, ericaceous shrubs abundant. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Pine species and black spruce compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, creeping snowberry, bunchberry, wild lilyof-the-valley, bluebead-lily, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V24, V30, V39 and V40; NE v-types V8, V7, V20, V6, V18, V14, and V21. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, (P. sylvestris), Thuja occidentalis, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Gaultheria hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Pteridium aquilinum Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Cladina rangiferina

101 G050Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Presence of lichen increases with increased likelihood of jack pine and more open conditions. Feathermoss abundant under a closed canopy. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 035 Coarser textured 049 Decreased diversity; near pure Sb/Pj , 099, 114 Finer textured 012 Shallower 035 Drier

102 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G051Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar and/or eastern hemlock. May contain balsam fir, white birch, yellow birch, white spruce, red maple, black spruce, and sugar maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, eastern hemlock, red maple, sugar maple, and yellow birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of mosses and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Eastern white cedar and eastern hemlock compose >50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, striped maple, beaked hazel, wild lily-ofthe-valley, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, and Schreber s moss. Often contains Central v-types V16, V18, V19, V17, V37, and V38; NE v-types V2, V14, and V16. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis, Betula alleghaniensis, B. papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Picea glauca Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Viburnum lantanoides, Gaultheria hispidula Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis, Coptis trifolia Pleurozium schreberi, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata, Plagiothecium laetum, Cladonia coniocraea

103 G051Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Presence of lichen increases as canopy becomes open. Feathermoss abundance increases and shrub and herb diversity decreases with canopy closure. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar/eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure eastern hemlock conditions often limited to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 066, 115 Moister 036 Coarser textured , 100, 115 Finer textured 013 Shallower 036 Drier

104 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Spruce - Fir Conifer G052Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of spruce species and/or balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain other species including white birch, red maple, and trembling aspen. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Spruce and balsam fir compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, low-sweet blueberry, fly honeysuckle, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, bunchberry, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V37, V25, V11, V25, and V26; NE v-types V20, V17, V21, V18, and V8. Trees Shrubs RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, (P. rubens), Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides, Betula alleghaniensis, Thuja occidentalis, Picea mariana, Sorbus americana Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Lycopodium clavatum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Pleurozium schreberi, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

105 G052Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Abundant feathermoss under closed canopy. Low shrubs or lichen abundant under open canopy. In young or dense plantations with significant site disturbance, the understory composition may vary. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically noncalcareous. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 067, 116 Moister 037 Coarser textured , 101, 116 Finer textured 014 Shallower 037 Drier

106 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Conifer G053Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of black spruce, balsam fir, eastern white cedar, white spruce, white birch, trembling aspen, red maple, sugar maple, and tamarack. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, eastern white cedar and white birch. Shrub and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3 is coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, low-sweet blueberry, bush honeysuckle, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, bunchberry, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V36 and V41; NE v-types V20, V17, V21, V18, and V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Abies balsamea, Thuja occidentalis, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Larix laricina Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Lonicera canadensis Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Coptis trifolia Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum commune, Dicranum polysetum

107 G053Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Abundant feathermoss under closed canopy. Low shrubs or lichen abundant under open canopy. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically noncalcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 068, 117 Moister 038 Coarser textured , 102, 117 Finer textured 014 Shallower 038 Drier

108 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood G054Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of eastern white and/or red pine. May contain large-tooth aspen, red maple, red oak, sugar maple, and white birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, red oak, balsam fir, Eastern white pine and sugar maple. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer, broadleaf litter, and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, wintergreen, low sweet blueberry, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V28, V31, V34, V23, V27, and V34; NE v-types V20, V17, V18, and V8. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Pinus strobus, (P. resinosa), Populus grandidentata, Acer rubrum, Quercus rubra, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Betula papyrifera Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria procumbens, Vaccinium angustifolium, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Eurybia macrophyllus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Oryzopsis asperifolia Non-vascular Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum

109 G054Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Trembling aspen and white birch common associate in the northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 069, 118 Moister 039 Coarser textured , 103, 118 Finer textured 015 Shallower 039 Drier

110 Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Profile/Slope Sequence G055Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain sugar maple, balsam fir, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate to high levels of balsam fir, red maple, white birch, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, bracken fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, and Schreber s moss. May contain Central v-types V25, V28, V22, V12, V14, V23, V20, V21, V24, and V25; NE v-types V4, V8, V2, V12, V6, V5, V7, V10, V11, and V13. Trees Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Pteridium aquilinum, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

111 G055Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 070, 119 Moister 040 Coarser textured , 104, 119 Finer textured 016 Shallower 040 Drier

112 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Elm - Ash Hardwood G056Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of elm and/or ash. Black ash and white elm typically present in the main canopy, but may include white ash and green ash. May contain trembling aspen, sugar maple, red maple, basswood, trembling aspen, balsam fir, and yellow birch. Understory consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Elm and/or ash species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, choke cherry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, northern lady fern, and beautiful branched moss. Often contains Central v-type V7. Trees Shrubs k n z Fraxinus nigra, Ulmus americana (Fraxinus americana, F. pennsylvanica), Populus tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Tilia americana, Populus balsamifera, Betula alleghaniensis Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus, Ribes triste, Cornus alternifolia CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Athyrium filixfemina var. angustum, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

113 G056Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Elm - Ash Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Elm and ash are much reduced from historical abundance and range due to pathogens and/or human exploitation. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range, elm and ash do not generally occur on this substrate type. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Black ash and white elm found throughout the range. White ash and green ash limited to 5E. Sugar maple, yellow birch, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Some stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on middle or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Related Ecosites 071, 120 Moister N/A , 105, 120 Finer textured N/A

114 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Oak Hardwood G057Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak. May contain sugar maple, ironwood, red maple, white birch, balsam fir, and American basswood. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, red oak, and balsam fir. Shrub poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, maple-leaved viburnum, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, largeleaved aster, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V27, V28, V5, V6, and V3. Quercus rubra, (Q. alba, Q. macrocarpa), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Ostrya Trees virginiana, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Tilia americana, Ulmus americana Shrubs Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Viburnum acerifolium, Amelanchier spp., Mitchella repens, Dirca palustris CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Polygonatum pubescens, Oryzopsis asperfolia Cladonia coniocraea, Bracythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Dicranum flagellare

115 G057Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common through 5E, climatically limited to southern portions of 4E across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically noncalcareous. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 072, 121 Moister 041 Coarser textured , 106, 121 Finer textured 017 Shallower 041 Drier

116 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Maple Hardwood G058Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple and red maple likely in the main canopy. May contain eastern hemlock, yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, ironwood, eastern white pine, and white birch. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, balsam fir, red oak, white ash and American beech. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, striped maple, leatherwood, wild lily-of-the-valley, spinulose wood fern, starflower, purple trillium, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V16, V2, V10, V3, V5, V11, V17, V1, and V4; NE v-types V3 and V4. Trees Shrubs S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Acer saccharum var. saccharum, (A. rubrum), Tsuga canadensis, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Fagus grandifolia, Ostrya virginiana, Pinus strobus, Betula papyrifera Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Dirca palustris, Cornus alternifolia Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Dryopteris carthusiana, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Trillium erectum, Polygonatum pubescens Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, B. reflexum var. reflexum

117 G058Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Red maple dominated forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 073, 074, 075, 122, 123, 124 Moister 042 Coarser textured , 107, 122, 123, 124 Finer textured 018 Shallower 042 Drier

118 Profile/Slope Sequence Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Mixedwood G059Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, American beech, American basswood, red oak, white birch, red maple, ironwood, and yellow birch. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, American beech, American basswood, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy or coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and dry to fresh (MR = 2 or 3, if sandy; MR 3, if coarse loamy). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M2 M4 MD2 MD4 D2 D4 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, beaked hazel, serviceberries, hobblebush, spinulose wood fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V5, V3, V17, and V6; NE v- types V1, V2, V4, V6-8, and V15. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Fagus grandifolia, Tilia americana, Quercus rubra, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Ostrya virginiana, Betula alleghaniensis Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Amelanchier spp., Viburnum lantanoides, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis Dryopteris carthusiana, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Oryzopsis asperfolia Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

119 G059Tt/Tl Dry to Fresh, Coarse: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient and moisture holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant as you move south. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, sugar maple, balsam fir and ironwood is more frequent in 5E. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse morainal deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Often on upper, middle, or lower slopes positions. Increased species diversity likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured or moister materials. Xeric vegetation such as lichens and serviceberries, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity likely on exposed bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 076, 125 Moister 043 Coarser textured , 108, 125 Finer textured 019 Shallower 043 Drier

120 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Field G060N Not Available Ecosite Description Approximately 250m Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Trees and shrubs generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present are typically representative of the surrounding landscape. Common agricultural plants may include rye and corn. In addition a variable composition of early succession plants including goldenrods, Queen Anne s lace, and asters can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Secale cereale, Zea spp., Solidago spp., Daucus carota, Eurybia spp., Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Trifolium spp., Vicia cracca, Taraxacum officinale ssp. officinale, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis

121 G060N Moist, Coarse: Field Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to growth can also be a result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G061). Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in larger river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional very moist to wet inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Tramping and bare patches may occur in heavily grazed fields as well as areas of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 093, 109 Finer textured 044, 077, 093 Drier

122 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Meadow G061N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) vegetation community. Trees and shrubs generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependant on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, serviceberries, and upland willow. Herbaceous species may include Canada bluejoint grass, goldenrods, and ox-eyed daisy. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Pinus strobus, P. banksiana, Prunus pensylvanica Amelanchier spp., Salix humilis, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Solidago spp., Leucanthemum vulgare, Cirsium muticum, Eurybia spp., Onoclea sensibilis, Carex spp., Impatiens capensis, Osmunda cinnamomea Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus

123 G061N Moist, Coarse: Meadow Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to growth can also be a result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, vegetation control). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a sparse shrub (G062). Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in larger river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Little bluestem may occur on the southern edge of the shield. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional very moist to wet inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 094, 110 Finer textured 008, 020 Shallower 045, 078, 094 Drier

124 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Sparse Shrub G062S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include balsam poplar and red maple. Shrub species may include speckled alder, dwarf birch, and willow spp. Common herbaceous plants may include Canada bluejoint grass, sedge spp., and goldonrod spp. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus balsamifera, Acer rubrum, Picea mariana, Thuja occidentalis, Fraxinus nigra Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Betula pumila var. pumila, Salix spp., Ilex mucronata, Cornus stolonifera, Ilex verticillata, Spiraea alba var. alba Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Carex spp., Solidago spp., Impatiens capensis, Cirsium muticum Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

125 G062S Moist, Coarse: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to growth can also be a result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G063) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in larger river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Alder-leaved buckthorn or buttonbush may occur east of Lake Superior and in 5E. Speckled alder and dwarf birch more common in 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional very moist to wet inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 095, 111 Finer textured 009, 021 Shallower 046, 079, 095 Drier

126 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Shrub G063S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or shrub shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include balsam poplar and red maple. Shrub species may include speckled alder, dwarf birch, and willow spp. Common herbaceous plants may include Canada bluejoint grass, sedge spp., and goldonrod spp. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus balsamifera, Acer rubrum, Picea mariana, Thuja occidentalis, Fraxinus nigra, Larix laricina Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Betula pumila var. pumila, Salix spp., Ilex mucronata, Cornus stolonifera, Ilex verticillata, Spiraea alba var. alba Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Carex spp., Solidago spp., Impatiens capensis, Cirsium muticum Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

127 G063S Moist, Coarse: Shrub Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to growth can also be a result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in larger river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Alder-leaved buckthorn or buttonbush may occur east of Lake Superior and in 5E. Speckled alder and dwarf birch more common in 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional very moist to wet inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 096, 116 Finer textured 010, 022 Shallower 047, 080, 096 Drier

128 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer G064Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain large-tooth aspen, white birch, red maple, white spruce, trembling aspen, and balsam fir. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure generally closed. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, low sweet blueberry, fly honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, wild sarsaparilla, and Schreber's moss. May contains Central v-types V29, V25, V30, and V31; NE v-types V10. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Populus grandidentata, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Gaultheria procumbens, Linnaea borealis ssp. longifolia, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium myrtilloides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis Pleurozium schreberi, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata, Cladonia coniocraea

129 G064Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor with a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a spruce and balsam fir or mixedwood ecosite near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Present but limited abundance in northern portions of 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 011, 023 Shallower 048, 081, 097 Drier

130 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer G065Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may also include eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black spruce, and white birch. Shrub moderately poor, ericaceous shrubs abundant. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Pine species and black spruce compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from pure stands of jack pine and/or black spruce or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, creeping snowberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, bunchberry, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V39, V24, V41, and V30; NE v-types V20, V27, V23, V24, V8, V20, V17, V18, and V22. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, (P. sylvestris), Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca Vaccinium angustifolium, Gaultheria hispidula, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum

131 G065Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Presence of lichen increases with increased likelihood of jack pine and more open conditions. Shrub and herb poor and feathermoss abundant under a closed canopy. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 012, 024 Shallower 049, 050, 082, 083, 098, 099 Drier

132 Moist, Coarse: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer G066Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar and/or eastern hemlock. May contain yellow birch, balsam fir, red maple, white birch, sugar maple, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, yellow birch, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub moderately poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth R VS S M MD D Chemistry k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Eastern white cedar and eastern hemlock compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, striped maple, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, goldthread, wild sarsaparilla, and glossy moss. Often contains Central v-types V18, V15-V17, V37, V21 and V38; NE v-types V16 and V1. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Picea glauca Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Viburnum lantanoides, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Clintonia borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Plagiothecium laetum, Cladonia coniocraea, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata

133 G066Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor and abundant feathermoss under a closed canopy. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More common and abundant in 4E-4, 4E-5, and 5E. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar/eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure eastern hemlock conditions often limited to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 013, 025 Shallower 051, 084, 100 Drier

134 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Spruce - Fir Conifer G067Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of spruce species and/or balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain other species including white birch, trembling aspen, red maple, black cherry, and yellow birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white spruce, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Spruce and balsam fir compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, beaked hazel, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, spinulose wood fern, and glossy moss. Often contains Central v-types V22, V25, V37, and V26: NE v-types V8, V2, V7, V15, V16, and V23. Picea glauca, (P. rubens), Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Trees Acer rubrum, Prunus serotina, Picea mariana, Betula alleghaniensis, Fraxinus nigra, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Pinus strobus, Sorbus decora Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Viburnum nudum Shrubs var. cassinoides, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Vascular Herbaceous RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis CX AN Non-vascular Plagiothecium laetum, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare

135 G067Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor and abundant feathermoss under a closed canopy. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically noncalcareous. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 014, 026 Shallower 052, 085, 101 Drier

136 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Conifer G068Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of tamarack, white spruce, black spruce, balsam fir, jack pine, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Shrub and herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of mosses and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, twinflower, velvet-leaf blueberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, dwarf raspberry, bunchberry, and wavy-leaved moss. May contain Central v-types V35 and V24; NE v-type V21. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Larix laricina, Picea glauca, P. mariana, Abies balsamea, Pinus banksiana, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Populus tremuloides Vaccinium angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Gaultheria hispidula, Diervilla lonicera Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Rubus pubescens, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Galium triflorum Dicranum polysetum, Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

137 G068Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Conifer Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor and abundant feathermoss under a closed canopy. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant on the landscape as you move further north. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically noncalcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Trembling aspen and white birch common associates in the northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 014, 026 Shallower 053, 086, 102 Drier

138 Moist, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood G069Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of eastern white and/or red pine. May contain trembling aspen, balsam fir, white birch, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and sugar maple. Shrub and herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer, broadleaf litter, and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, and Schreber s moss. May contain Central v- types V23 and V25; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V10, and V12. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Pinus strobus, (P. resinosa), Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Picea glauca, Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Populus grandidentata Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea

139 G069Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. A major disturbance is required to maintain this ecosite. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Trembling aspen and white birch common associates in the northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 015, 027 Shallower 054, 087, 103 Drier

140 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Aspen - Birch Hardwood G070Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain sugar maple, balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate to high levels of balsam fir, sugar maple, red maple, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, feathermoss, and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from pure stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both.common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, northern wild raisin, starflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V22, V23, V25, V14, V20, V24, V27, and V28; NE v-types V8, V2, V4, V5, V10, V7, and V19. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Populus tremuloides, (P. grandidentata, P. balsamifera), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca, Thuja occidentalis Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Acer pensylvanicum, Vaccinium angustifolium Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Dryopteris carthusiana, Cornus canadensis Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

141 G070Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 016, 028 Shallower 055, 088, 104 Drier

142 Moist, Coarse: Elm - Ash Hardwood G071Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of elm and/or ash. Black ash and white elm typically present in the main canopy, but may include white ash and green ash. May contain balsam fir, red maple, yellow birch, and white spruce. Understory consisting of moderate levels of black ash, balsam fir, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Elm and/or ash species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, choke cherry, dwarf raspberry, spinulose wood fern, sensitive fern, sedges, and beautiful branch moss. Often contains Central v-types V7 and V9; NE v-types V9 and V14. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Fraxinus nigra, (F. americana, F. pennsylvanica, Ulmus americana), Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Thuja occidentalis, Betula alleghaniensis, Picea glauca, Sorbus decora, Populus balsamifera, P. tremuloides Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus, Cornus alternifolia, Ribes triste Rubus pubescens, Dryopteris carthusiana, Onoclea sensibilis, Carex spp., Aralia nudicaulis, Galium asprellum, Clintonia borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Non-vascular Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum

143 G071Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Elm - Ash Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Elm and ash are much reduced from historical abundance and range due to pathogens and/or human exploitation. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range, elm and ash do not generally occur on this substrate type. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Black ash and white elm found throughout the range. White ash and green ash limited to 5E. Sugar maple, yellow birch, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 056, 089, 105 Drier

144 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Oak Hardwood G072Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak. May contain sugar maple, red maple, white birch, yellow birch, and green ash. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, red maple, red oak, and balsam fir. Shrub poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, northern wild raisin, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, wild sarsaparilla, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V5, V6, V27, and V28. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Quercus rubra, (Q. alba, Q. macrocarpa), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Betula alleghaniensis, Fraxinus pennsylvanica Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Oryzopsis asperfolia, Eurybia macrophyllus Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum flagellare, Callicladium haldanianum

145 G072Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common through 5E, climatically limited to southern portions of 4E across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A Finer textured 017, 028 Shallower 057, 089, 106 Drier

146 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Sugar Maple Hardwood G073Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of sugar maple. May contain yellow birch, red maple, eastern hemlock, balsam fir, American beech, and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, balsam fir, and yellow birch. Shrub moderately poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Sugar maple compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, spinulose wood fern, starflower, rose twisted-stalk, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V15-V17, V13, V1, V3, and V5; NE v-types V1 and V3. Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum, Tsuga Trees canadensis, Abies balsamea, Fagus grandifolia, Thuja occidentalis, Betula papyrifera, Populus grandidentata Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Viburnum lantanoides Dryopteris carthusiana, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Trillium erectum Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea CX AN

147 G073Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Sugar Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 075 Increased maple diversity 122, 123, 124 Finer textured 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

148 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Red Maple Hardwood G074Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of red maple. May contain trembling aspen, balsam fir, sugar maple, white spruce, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, sugar maple, and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Red maple compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, starflower, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, wild lily-of-thevalley, rose twisted-stalk, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V12-V14; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V6, and V7. Trees Shrubs k n z Acer rubrum, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Fraxinus nigra, Betula alleghaniensis Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Acer pensylvanicum CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

149 G074Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Red Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours red maple, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 075 Increased maple diversity 122, 123, 124 Finer textured 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

150 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Maple Hardwood G075Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple, red maple, and silver maple likely in the main canopy. May contain white birch, eastern white pine, trembling aspen, white spruce, balsam fir, and yellow birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, sugar maple, and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, rose twisted-stalk, wild lily-of-the-valley, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-type V12-V14; NE v- types V1-V4, V6 and V7. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, (A. saccharinum), Betula papyrifera, Pinus strobus, Populus tremuloides, Picea glauca, Abies balsamea, Betula alleghaniensis Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Acer pensylvanicum Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Dryopteris carthusiana Non-vascular Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare

151 G075Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours maple species, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Red maple and sugar maple forests and silver maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, red maple, and white elm in 4E and northern 5E. Yellow birch becomes more likely as you move south. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 074 Increased maple diversity 122, 123, 124 Finer textured 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

152 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Coarse: Mixedwood G076Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, American beech, yellow birch, eastern hemlock, red maple, and American basswood. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of sugar maple, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter and variable stones. Substrate sandy to coarse loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S1 M3 M5 M10 MD3 MD5 MD14 D3 D5 D14 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, hobblebush, spinulose wood fern, shining club-moss, wild lily-of-the-valley, rose twisted-stalk, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V15, V17, V1, V2, V6, and V3; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V6-V8, and V15. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Fagus grandifolia, Betula alleghaniensis, Tsuga canadensis, Acer rubrum, Tilia americana Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Viburnum lantanoides, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Dryopteris carthusiana, Huperzia lucidula, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

153 G076Tt/Tl Moist, Coarse: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate has a low nutrient holding capacity resulting in decreased growth rates and low vegetation diversity. Limitations to tree growth can also be the result of high coarse fragment concentrations in morainal deposits. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and common across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant as you move further south. Generally flat to rolling morainal deposits with occurrences of glaciofluvial material found in large river valleys throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-5, and 5E-13. Typically non-calcareous. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, sugar maple, balsam fir and ironwood is more frequent in 5E. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Generally moderately deep to deep substrate. Depth of coarse moranial deposits variable which may result in bedrock controlled wetlands. Abundant stoniness in morainal deposits is common. Ecosite commonly on middle, lower, or level slope positions. Increased species diversity and abundance likely over base-rich bedrock or inclusions of fine textured materials. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister N/A , 125 Finer textured 018, 028 Shallower 058, 092, 108 Drier

154 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Field G077N Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Trees and shrubs generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present are typically representative of the surrounding landscape. Common agricultural plants may include barley and oats. In addition a variable composition of early succession plants including clovers, marsh vetchling, and pearly everlasting can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Hordeum vulgare, Avena sativa, Trifolium spp., Lathyrus palustris, Anaphalis margaritacea, Hieracium spp., Solidago spp., Eurybia spp., Taraxacum officinale ssp. officinale, Daucus carota, Achillea millefolium, Leucanthemum vulgare, Sonchus arvensis ssp. arvensis, Cirsium arvense, Bromus inermis

155 G077N Fresh, Clayey: Field Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G078). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Compaction of the substrate may occur in heavily grazed fields and patches of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites 109 Moister 044 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 078, 079, 080 No evidence of agriculture or plowing N/A

156 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Meadow G078N Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) cover vegetation community. Trees and shrubs generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however they neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependant on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, Rubus and serviceberries. Herbaceous species may include red fescue, bird s foot-trefoil, American vetch and Canada bluejoint grass. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Populus balsamifera Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Cornus stolonifera, Diervilla lonicera Festuca rubra ssp. rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Doellingeria umbellata var. umbellata Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

157 G078N Fresh, Clayey: Meadow Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, periodic flooding, vegetation control). Dense grass and sedge thatch may inhibit woody growth. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a sparse shrub (G079). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Tree and shrub species often restricted to moister areas. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 110 Moister 045 Coarser textured 077 Evidence of agriculture or continuous plowing Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 079, 080 Increased shrub cover 008 Shallower

158 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Sparse Shrub G079S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include prickly wild rose, Rubus species, and speckled alder. Common herbaceous plants may include fireweed, Canada bluejoint grass, and American vetch. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Populus balsamifera Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix spp., Viburnum spp., Cornus stolonifera, Diervilla lonicera Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Bromus inermis Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

159 G079S Fresh, Clayey: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G080) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 111 Moister 046 Coarser textured 077, 078 Shrub cover 10% Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 080 Shrub cover > 25% 009 Shallower

160 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Shrub G080S Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include Rubus species (raspberry, blackberry etc.), speckled alder, and willows. Common herbaceous plants may include fireweed, Canada bluejoint grass, and American vetch. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Populus balsamifera Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix spp., Viburnum spp., Cornus stolonifera, Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Diervilla lonicera Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Agrostis stolonifera Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

161 G080S Fresh, Clayey: Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows.maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 112 Moister 047 Coarser textured 077, 078, 079 Shrub cover 25% Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 010 Shallower

162 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer G081Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain balsam fir, white birch, sugar maple, red oak, trembling aspen, and white elm. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series S2 M6 MD10 D10 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure generally closed. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes bush honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, low sweet blueberry, serviceberries, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, dwarf raspberry, largeleaved aster, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V29 and V34; NE v- types V4, V1, V3, V13, and V14. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Quercus rubra, Populus tremuloides, Ulmus americana Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Amelanchier spp., Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Rubus pubescens, Eurybia macrophyllus, Oryzopsis asperfolia, Pteridium aquilinum Cladonia coniocraea, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Callicladium haldanianum, Ptilidium pulcherrimum

163 G081Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a spruce and balsam fir or mixedwood ecosite near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Species such as bracken fern and white-grained mountain-rice grass found on the site as a legacy of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, and red maple in 4E and northern portion of 5E. Basswood and red oak more common in southern portion of 5E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 064, 113 Moister 048 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 011 Shallower

164 Fresh, Clayey: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Dominated Profile/Slope Sequence G082Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy dominated by jack pine and black spruce. May contain white birch, balsam fir, trembling aspen, and red pine. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of black spruce, balsam fir, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Jack pine, black spruce, and/or white birch compose 90% or more of the tree species but white birch is 20% of tree species cover. Ecosite variable from pure stands of jack pine and/or black spruce to a mixed condition with both. Common understory vegetation includes velvet-leaf blueberry, creeping snowberry, twinflower, low sweet blueberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, bunchberry, goldthread, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-type V39; NE v-types V20, V23, V15, and V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, Betula papyrifera, Abies balsamea, Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum Vaccinium myrtilloides, Gaultheria hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Coptis trifolia, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum

165 G082Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Dominated Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. High intensity fire in jack pine dominated communities, produce even aged, nearly pure stands of jack pine. In black spruce communities high intensity fire permits the quick re-establishment of black spruce along with pines and hardwood species such as white birch and aspen. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 049 Coarser textured Increased diversity 098 Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 012 Shallower

166 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Black Spruce - Pine Conifer G083Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may include components of eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black spruce, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Pine species and black spruce compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, twinflower, starflower, goldthread, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V37 and V39; NE v-types V15, V20, and V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Picea glauca, Pinus strobus, Thuja occidentalis Gaultheria hispidula, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana Pleurozium schreberi, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata, Dicranum polysetum

167 G083Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Black Spruce - Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 050 Coarser textured 082 Decreased diversity; near pure Sb/Pj Shallower 082 Increased diversity 099 Texture Silty to Fine Loamy

168 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer G084Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar and/or eastern hemlock. May contain yellow birch, balsam fir, red maple, white birch, sugar maple, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, yellow birch, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Eastern white cedar and eastern hemlock compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes striped maple, fly honeysuckle, red-berried elderberry, mountain maple, spinulose wood fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, rose twisted-stalk, and three-lobed bazzania. Often contains Central v-types V17 and V18; NE v-types V1, V14, and V16. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Populus tremuloides, Picea glauca Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens, Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Viburnum lantanoides Dryopteris carthusiana, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata, Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi

169 G084Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar / eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure eastern hemlock conditions often limited to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 066, 115 Moister 051 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 013 Shallower

170 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Spruce - Fir Conifer G085Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of spruce species and/or balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain other species including white birch, trembling aspen, eastern white pine, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white spruce, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Spruce and balsam fir compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, low sweet blueberry, mountain maple, northern wild raisin, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, twinflower, bunchberry, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-type V26: NE v-types V15, V11, and V8. Trees Shrubs Picea glauca, (P. rubens), Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Pinus strobus, Picea mariana, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Sorbus decora Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Pleurozium schreberi, Plagiothecium laetum, Dicranum flagellare, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata

171 G085Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 067, 116 Moister 052 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 014 Shallower

172 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Conifer G086Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of of tamarack, white spruce, black spruce, balsam fir, jack pine, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite generally composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, and Schreber s moss. May contain Central v-type V9; NE v-types V1, V4, V6-V8, V14, V15, and V19. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Larix laricina, Picea glauca, P. mariana, Abies balsamea, Pinus banksiana, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis. Populus tremuloides Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. borealis Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

173 G086Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 068, 117 Moister 053 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 014 Shallower

174 Fresh, Clayey: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood G087Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of eastern white and/or red pine. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, white spruce, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, eastern white pine, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, beaked hazel, wintergreen, large-leaved aster, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, bunchberry, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V23, V27, V28, and V34; NE v-types V4, V1, V3, and V13, and V14. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Pinus strobus, Betula papyrifera, Pinus resinosa, Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Picea glauca, Acer rubrum, Abies balsamea, Quercus rubra Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Gaultheria procumbens, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Cornus canadensis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Non-vascular Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Pleurozium schreberi

175 G087Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shadetolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portions of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 069, 118 Moister 054 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 015 Shallower

176 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Aspen - Birch Hardwood G088Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain white spruce, red maple, sugar maple, and balsam fir. Understory tree species consisting of moderate to high levels of balsam fir, sugar maple, red maple, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, lichens, and mosses. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, mountain maple, striped maple, northern wild raisin, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, starflower, rose twisted-stalk, powder horn lichen, and Schreber s moss. May contain Central v-types V12, V20, and V22-25; NE v-types V11-V13, V10, V15, and V4. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Populus tremuloides, (P. grandidentata), Picea glauca, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Abies balsamea Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, A. pensylvanicum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Mitchella repens Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Pteridium aquilinum Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Callicladium haldanianum

177 G088Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 070, 119 Moister 055 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 016 Shallower

178 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Elm - Ash Hardwood G089Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of elm and/or ash. Black ash and white elm typically present in the main canopy, but may include white ash and green ash. May contain trembling aspen, sugar maple, red maple, yellow birch, and white spruce. Understory consisting of moderate levels of black ash, balsam fir, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Elm and/or ash species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, choke cherry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, northern lady fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, and beautiful branch moss. Often contains Central v-type V7. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Fraxinus nigra, (F. americana, F. pennsylvanica), Ulmus americana, Populus tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Picea glauca Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus, Ribes triste, Cornus alternifolia Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Athyrium filixfemina var. angustum, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis Non-vascular Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea

179 G089Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Elm - Ash Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Elm and ash are much reduced from historical abundance and range due to pathogens and/or human exploitation. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite may persist or succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Black ash and white elm found throughout the range. White ash and green ash limited to 5E. Sugar maple, yellow birch, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 071, 120 Moister 056 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 019 Shallower

180 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Oak Hardwood G090Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak and white oak. May contain sugar maple, eastern white pine, white ash, American beech, and eastern hemlock. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, red maple, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes smooth juneberry, bush honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, red-berried elderberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, large-leaved aster, wild sarsaparilla, hairy Solomon's seal, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V5, V6, and V34. Quercus rubra, (Q. macrocarpa, Q. alba), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Pinus Trees strobus, Fraxinus americana, Tilia americana, Tsuga canadensis, Pinus banksiana, Populus grandidentata, P. tremuloides Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Amelanchier laevis, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Polygonatum pubescens, Oryzopsis asperifolia, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum fuscescens var. fuscescens, Jamesoniella autumnalis var. autumnalis CX AN

181 G090Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 072, 121 Moister 057 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 017 Shallower

182 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Maple Hardwood G091Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple and red maple likely in the main canopy. May contain yellow birch, American basswood, white birch, ironwood, white ash, and American beech. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, balsam fir, and ironwood. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Approximately 250m Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, striped maple, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, wild lilyof-the-valley, false Solomon's seal, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v- types V1-6 and V10-V13; NE v-types V2-V4 and V6-V8. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Betula papyrifera, Ostrya virginiana, Fraxinus americana, Fagus grandifolia, Quercus rubra Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Acer pensylvanicum Dryopteris canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, M. racemosum ssp. racemosum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Polygonatum pubescens Non-vascular Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

183 G091Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red maple dominated forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 073, 074, 075, 122, 123, 124 Moister 058 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 018 Shallower

184 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Clayey: Mixedwood G092Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, American basswood, black ash, ironwood, red maple, and white birch. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S2 M6 MD10 D10 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, alternate-leaved dogwood, creeping partridge-berry, striped maple, wild lily-of-the-valley, hairy Solomon's seal, wild sarsaparilla, purple trillium, spinulose wood fern, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V1, V2, and V4-6; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V6-V8, and V15. Trees Shrubs k n z Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Tilia americana, Fraxinus nigra, Ostrya virginiana, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Quercus rubra, Fagus grandifolia, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea Lonicera canadensis, Cornus alternifolia, Mitchella repens, Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Polygonatum pubescens, Aralia nudicaulis, Trillium erectum, Dryopteris carthusiana, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

185 G092Tt/Tl Fresh, Clayey: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Understory diversity and abundance decreases, and feathermoss abundance increases as the canopy becomes more closed. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. American beech and American basswood beech are more frequent in 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 076, 125 Moister 059 Coarser textured Texture Silty to Fine Loamy 019 Shallower

186 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Field G093N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present are typically representative of the surrounding landscape. Common agricultural plants may include corn and canola. In addition a variable composition of early succession plants including clovers, marsh vetchling, and pearly everlasting can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Zea mays spp. mays, Brassica napus, Trifolium spp., Lathyrus palustris, Anaphalis margaritacea, Hieracium spp., Solidago spp., Eurybia spp., Taraxacum officinale ssp. officinale, Daucus carota, Achillea millefolium, Leucanthemum vulgare, Sonchus arvensis ssp. arvensis, Cirsium arvense, Bromus inermis

187 G093N Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Field Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G094). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Compaction of the substrate may occur in heavily grazed fields and patches of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites 060, 109 Moister 044 Coarser textured Finer textured 094, 095, 096 No evidence of agriculture or plowing N/A

188 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Meadow G094N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) vegetation community. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependant on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, Rubus and serviceberries. Herbaceous species may include fireweed, American vetch and Canada bluejoint grass. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Populus balsamifera Shrubs Rubus spp., Amelanchier spp., Cornus stolonifera, Diervilla lonicera Vascular Herbaceous Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Circisum arvense, Bromus inermis Non-vascular Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

189 G094N Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Meadow Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, periodic flooding, vegetation control). Dense grass and sedge thatch may inhibit woody growth. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a sparse shrub (G095). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 061, 110 Moister 045 Coarser textured 093 Evidence of agriculture or continuous plowing Finer textured 095, 096 Increased shrub cover 008 Shallower

190 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Sparse Shrub G095S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include prickly wild rose, Rubus species, and speckled alder. Common herbaceous plants may include fireweed, Canada bluejoint grass, and American vetch. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Populus balsamifera, Thuja occidentalis Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix spp., Viburnum spp., Cornus stolonifera, Diervilla lonicera Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Bromus inermis, Agrostis stolonifera Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

191 G095S Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub (G096) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 062, 111 Moister 046 Coarser textured 093, 094 Shrub cover 10% Finer textured 096 Shrub cover > 25% 009 Shallower

192 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Shrub G096S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include Rubus species (raspberry, blackberry etc.), speckled alder, and willows. Common herbaceous plants may include fireweed, Canada bluejoint grass, and American vetch. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, Populus balsamifera, Thuja occidentalis Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix spp., Viburnum spp., Cornus stolonifera, Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi, Diervilla lonicera Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Elymus repens, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Solidago spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium spp., Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Bromus inermis Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

193 G096S Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old field or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep materials. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as poverty oat grass and common yarrow, as well as decreased diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 063, 112 Moister 047 Coarser textured 093, 094, 095 Shrub cover 25% Finer textured 010 Shallower

194 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G097Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain white birch, red maple, black spruce, large-tooth aspen, balsam fir, eastern white cedar, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white pine. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure generally closed. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50% relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, velvetleaf blueberry, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, bracken fern, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V29 and V34; NE v-types V4, V1, V3, V13, and V14. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum, Picea mariana, Populus grandidentata, Abies balsamea, Thuja occidentalis, Picea glauca Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Gaultheria procumbens, Amelanchier laevis Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Pteridium aquilinum, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum montanum

195 G097Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. Under red pine dominated stands, shrub and herb sparse with abundant conifer litter. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a spruce and balsam fir or mixedwood ecosite near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Species such as bracken fern and white-grained mountain-rice grass found on the site as a legacy of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, and red maple in 4E and northern portion of 5E. Basswood and red oak more common in southern portion of 5E. Trembling aspen and white birch more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 064, 113 Moister 048 Coarser textured Finer textured 011 Shallower

196 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Dominated Profile/Slope Sequence G098Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy dominated by jack pine and black spruce. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, balsam fir, red pine, eastern white pine, and red pine. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of black spruce, balsam fir, red maple, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Jack pine, black spruce, and/or white birch compose 90% or more of the tree species but white birch is 20% of tree species cover. Feathermoss abundant under a closed canopy. Low shrubs or lichen more likely under an open canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, wintergreen, twinflower, bunchberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, goldthread, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V39 and V40; NE v-types V20, V17, V14, V19, V21, and V23. Trees RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Pinus strobus, P. resinosa CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Gaultheria procumbens, G. hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Diervilla lonicera Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Coptis trifolia, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi

197 G098Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Jack Pine - Black Spruce Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. High intensity fire in jack pine dominated communities, produce even aged, nearly pure stands of jack pine. In black spruce communities high intensity fire permits the quick re-establishment of black spruce along with pines and hardwood species such as white birch and aspen. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Trembling aspen and white birch more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 049 Coarser textured Finer textured 099 Increased diversity 012 Shallower

198 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G099Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may also include eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain balsam fir, white birch, trembling aspen, eastern white cedar and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white birch, and black spruce. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Pine species and black spruce compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes velvet-leaf blueberry, low sweet blueberry, twinflower, bush honeysuckle, bunchberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, bluebead-lily, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V39, V24, and V30; NE v-types V19, V18, V20, V31, V33, and V34. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus banksiana, Picea mariana, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, Thuja occidentalis, Picea glauca Vaccinium myrtilloides, V. angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Diervilla lonicera, Alnus viridis ssp. incana, Rhododendron groenlandicum Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum

199 G099Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 065, 114 Moister 050 Coarser textured 098 Decreased diversity; near pure Sb/Pj Finer textured 012 Shallower

200 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G100Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar and/or eastern hemlock. May contain red maple, yellow birch, balsam fir, white spruce, and white birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, eastern hemlock, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Eastern white cedar and eastern hemlock compose >50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, striped maple, beaked hazel, wild lily-ofthe-valley, starflower, bluebead-lily, spinulose wood fern, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V18 and V19; NE v-type V9. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Thuja occidentalis, Tsuga canadensis, Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, A. pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Viburnum lantanoides Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata

201 G100Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar/eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure eastern hemlock conditions often limited to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 066, 115 Moister 051 Coarser textured Finer textured 013 Shallower

202 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Spruce - Fir Conifer Profile/Slope Sequence G101Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of spruce species and/or balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain other species including white birch, eastern white cedar, trembling aspen, red maple, yellow birch and eastern white pine. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white birch, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Spruce and balsam fir compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, northern wild raisin, velvet-leaf blueberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, goldthread, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v- types V26 and V37; NE v-types V15, V8, V16, V2, and V14. Trees Shrubs RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, Picea mariana, Thuja occidentalis, Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Pinus strobus, Sorbus americana Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Diervilla lonicera CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, Dicranum flagellare

203 G101Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 067, 116 Moister 052 Coarser textured Finer textured 014 Shallower

204 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Conifer G102Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of of tamarack, white spruce, black spruce, balsam fir, jack pine, red maple, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and white spruce. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite generally composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, bluebead-lily, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, and Schreber s moss. May contain NE v-type V7. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Larix laricina, Picea glauca, P. mariana, Abies balsamea, Pinus banksiana, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis. Populus tremuloides Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Linnaea borealis ssp. borealis Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Eurybia macrophyllus Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea

205 G102Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity and lichen abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen, and white birch, more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 068, 117 Moister 053 Coarser textured Finer textured 014 Shallower

206 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Profile/Slope Sequence G103Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of eastern white and/or red pine. May contain white birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, white spruce, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, eastern white pine, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, large-leaved aster, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, bracken fern, and powder horn lichen. May contain Central v-types V23, V27, V29, and V34; NE v-types V4, V1, V3, V13, and V14. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Pinus strobus, Betula papyrifera, Pinus resinosa, Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Picea glauca, Acer rubrum, Abies balsamea, Quercus rubra Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Mitchella repens Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Pteridium aquilinum, Cornus canadensis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Pleurozium schreberi

207 G103Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 069, 118 Moister 054 Coarser textured Finer textured 015 Shallower

208 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Profile/Slope Sequence G104Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain balsam fir, white spruce, sugar maple, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate to high levels of balsam fir, sugar maple, red maple, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, lichens, and mosses. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, starflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, powder horn lichen, and Schreber's moss. May contain Central v-types V24, V21, V25, V28, V20, V22, and V23; NE v-types V4, V5, V8, V2, V11, V6, V10, V12, and V13. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, (P. balsamifera), Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Mitchella repens Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris carthusiana Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum fuscescens var. fuscescens, Callicladium haldanianum

209 G104Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling morainal materials, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and glaciolacustrine deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and largetooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 070, 119 Moister 055 Coarser textured Finer textured 016 Shallower

210 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Elm - Ash Hardwood Profile/Slope Sequence G105Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of elm and/or ash. Black ash and white elm typically present in the main canopy, but may include white ash and green ash. May contain trembling aspen, sugar maple, red maple, yellow birch, and white spruce. Understory consisting of moderate levels of black ash, balsam fir, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Approximately 250m S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Elm and/or ash species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, choke cherry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, northern lady fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, and beautiful branch moss. Often contains Central v-type V7. Fraxinus nigra, (F. americana, F. pennsylvanica), Ulmus americana, Populus Trees tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Picea glauca, Shrubs Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus, Ribes triste, Cornus alternifolia CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Athyrium filixfemina var. angustum, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea

211 G105Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Elm - Ash Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Elm and ash are much reduced from historical abundance and range due to pathogens and/or human exploitation. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Black ash and white elm found throughout the range. White ash and green ash limited to 5E. Sugar maple, yellow birch, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 071, 120 Moister 056 Coarser textured Finer textured 019 Shallower

212 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Oak Hardwood G106Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include components of bur oak and white oak. May contain sugar maple, eastern white pine, white ash, American beech, and eastern hemlock. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, red maple, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Approximately 250m Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes smooth juneberry, bush honeysuckle, fly honeysuckle, red-berried elderberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, large-leaved aster, wild sarsaparilla, hairy Solomon s seal, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V6, V5, and V34. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Quercus rubra, (Q. macrocarpa, Q. alba), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Pinus strobus, Fraxinus americana, Tilia americana, Tsuga canadensis, Pinus banksiana, Populus grandidentata, P. tremuloides Amelanchier laevis, Diervilla lonicera, Lonicera canadensis, Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Polygonatum pubescens, Oryzopsis asperifolia, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum fuscescens var. fuscescens, Jamesoniella autumnalis var. autumnalis

213 G106Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 072, 121 Moister 057 Coarser textured Finer textured 017 Shallower

214 Profile/Slope Sequence Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Maple Hardwood G107Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple and red maple likely in the main canopy. May contain yellow birch, American basswood, white birch, ironwood, white ash, and American beech. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, balsam fir, and ironwood. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Approximately 250m Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, striped maple, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, false Solomon s seal, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V2, V5, V7, V3, and V10-V15; NE v-types V2 and V3. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Betula papyrifera, Ostrya virginiana, Fraxinus americana, Fagus grandifolia, Quercus rubra Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, Acer pensylvanicum Dryopteris canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, M. racemosum ssp. racemosum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Polygonatum pubescens Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

215 G107Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red maple dominated forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites , 075, 122, 123, 124 Moister 058 Coarser textured Finer textured 018 Shallower

216 Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Mixedwood G108Tt/Tl Profile/Slope Sequence Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, white birch, American beech, yellow birch, American basswood, red oak, and ironwood. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, American beech, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and fresh (MR 3). Substrate Description Approximately 250m Substrate Series S2 M6 MD6 MD8 D6 D8 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, creeping partridge-berry, striped maple, beaked hazel, wild lily-of-the-valley, hairy Solomon s seal, wild sarsaparilla, indian-pipe, spinulose wood fern, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V1, V2, V6, V5, and V4; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V6-V8, and V15. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Betula papyrifera, Tilia americana, Quercus rubra, Ostrya virginiana, Fagus grandifolia, Fraxinus americana, Abies balsamea, Populus grandidentata Lonicera canadensis, Mitchella repens, Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Polygonatum pubescens, Aralia nudicaulis, Monotropa uniflora, Dryopteris carthusiana, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Non-vascular Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

217 G108Tt/Tl Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally flat to rolling glaciolacustrine, glaciofluvial, lacustrine, alluvial, and fine texture morainal deposits throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Moderately deep to deep substrates. Mostly on level, lower, or toe slopes or in depressions. Xeric vegetation such as pines, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Occasional moist inclusions may contain speckled alder, Sphagnum species, sedges, and conifer species reflecting hydric conditions. Related Ecosites 076, 125 Moister 059 Coarser textured Finer textured 019 Shallower

218 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Field G109N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community maintained by continuous human alteration. Tree and shrub generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Ecosite may be dominated by one planted specie or many in the case of agricultural fields or have a variable natural composition if maintained by heavy grazing. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Tree and shrub species when present are typically representative of the surrounding landscape. Common agricultural plants may include corn and soybeans. In addition a variable composition of early successional vascular plants including timothy, Kentucky bluegrass, and asters can be found in grazed areas. Due to the continuous human alteration of the site lichens and mosses are limited. CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Zea mays ssp. mays, Glycine max, Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Trifolium spp., Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Carex spp., Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Solidago spp., Elymus repens, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare

219 G109N Moist, Fine: Field Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present on sites that have been plowed, this layer is absent or less well developed on pasture sites. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with continuous human disturbance (e.g., agricultural practices, heavy grazing). In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a meadow (G110). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Occasional very moist to wet inclusions may contain sedges and other herbaceous species reflecting hydric conditions. Compaction of the substrate may occur in heavily grazed fields and patches of areas of unpalatable species (e.g., bracken fern, wool grass) may be present. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 060 Coarser textured 109 N/A 044, 077, 093 Drier

220 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Meadow G110N Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Herbaceous (forb and/or graminoid) vegetation community. Trees and shrubs generally absent. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community. Scattered small, open-grown trees and shrubs may be present, however neither exceed 10% absolute cover. Species composition variable dependant on time since abandonment. Tree and shrub species when present include trembling aspen, white birch, Rubus species, and speckled alder. Herbaceous species may include Canada bluejoint grass, spotted jewel-weed, and asters. Non-vascular species may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Populus balsamifera Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Cornus stolonifera, Salix spp., Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Impatiens capensis, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Trifolium spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Cirsium arvense, Carex spp., Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Solidago spp., Elymus repens, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Onoclea sensibilis, Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

221 G110N Moist, Fine: Meadow Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. May originate from agriculture (e.g., crop or pasture) abandonment, silvicultural practices, fire, or selective removal of woody material (e.g., hydro or gas corridors). Depending on time from abandonment the characteristic species may be a mix of native and introduced species (early abandonment) or predominately native species (later abandonment). Grass species that typically dominate newly abandoned fields are replaced by forb species as the meadow ages. A distinctive plow layer (Ap) may be present. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate disturbance (e.g., fire, grazing, periodic flooding, vegetation control). Dense grass and sedge thatch may inhibit woody growth. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a sparse shrub (G111). Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Little bluestem may occur on the southern edge of the shield. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 061 Coarser textured 110 N/A 008, 020 Shallower 045, 078, 094 Drier

222 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Sparse Shrub G111S Not Available Ecosite Description Approximately 250m Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure sparse. Absolute cover of all shrub species 10-25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include Rubus species, speckled alder, and red-osier dogwood. Common herbaceous plants may include Canada bluejoint grass, spotted jewel-weed, and asters. Mosses limited by may include haircap mosses and fire moss. Trees Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Populus balsamifera Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Cornus stolonifera, Salix spp., Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Impatiens capensis, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Trifolium spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Carex spp., Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Solidago spp., Elymus repens, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Onoclea sensibilis, Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus ssp. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

223 G111S Moist, Fine: Sparse Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a more dense shrub system (G112) or treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 062 Coarser textured 111 N/A 009, 021 Shallower 046, 079, 095 Drier

224 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Shrub G112S Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Tall and/or short shrub. Tree poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly herbaceous litter and mineral material. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub closure variable. Absolute cover of all shrub species > 25%. Scattered small, opengrown trees often present, however they do not exceed 10% absolute cover. Common tree species include trembling aspen and white birch. Shrub species may include Rubus species, speckled alder, and red-osier dogwood. Common herbaceous plants may include Canada bluejoint grass, spotted jewel-weed, and asters. Mosses limited but may include haircap mosses and fire moss. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Populus balsamifera Rubus spp., Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Cornus stolonifera, Salix spp., Rosa acicularis ssp. sayi Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Impatiens capensis, Erigeron spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Trifolium spp., Phleum pratense ssp. pratense, Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis, Carex spp., Chamerion angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Solidago spp., Elymus repens, Ranunculus acris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Onoclea sensibilis, Polytrichum spp., Ceratodon purpureus var. purpureus, Pleurozium schreberi

225 G112S Moist, Fine: Shrub Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to growth result from vegetative competition. Often found in areas that were once open; either old fields or meadows. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Ecosite can persist in current state for extended periods of time or in the absence of disturbance this ecosite will succeed to a treed system. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 063 Coarser textured 112 N/A 010, 022 Shallower 047, 080, 096 Drier

226 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Red Pine - White Pine Conifer G113Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of eastern white and red pine. May contain large-tooth aspen, balsam fir, white birch, eastern white cedar, and American basswood. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, balsam fir, trembling aspen, and eastern white pine. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Substrate silty, fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure generally closed. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Ecosite is mostly conifer (> 50 % relative cover). Eastern white and/or red pine 20% absolute cover is diagnostic. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of eastern white and/or red pine to mixed conditions dominated by conifer. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, velvetleaf blueberry, mountain maple, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, bunchberry, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-types V29, V27, V28, and V34; NE v-type V7. Trees Shrubs Pinus strobus, P. resinosa, Populus grandidentata, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Tilia americana, Ostrya virginiana, Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Cornus canadensis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum flagellare, Polytrichum juniperinum, Spaghnum capillifolium

227 G113Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: White Pine Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and compositions associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to a spruce and balsam fir or mixedwood ecosite near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Species such as bracken fern and mountain rice grass found on the site as a legacy of fire. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, and red maple in 4E and northern portion of 5E. American basswood and red oak more likely in southern portion of 5E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 064 Coarser textured 113 N/A 011, 023 Shallower 048, 081, 097 Drier

228 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer G114Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of pine species and black spruce. Jack pine typically present in the main canopy, but may include eastern white pine, red pine, and scotch pine. May contain balsam fir, trembling aspen, white birch, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir and black spruce. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Pine species and black spruce compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes low sweet blueberry, creeping snowberry, velvet-leaf blueberry, bush honeysuckle, bunchberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, goldthread, and Schreber s moss. Often contains Central v-type V39; NE v-types V24, V25, V23, V20, V27, and V19. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, (P. strobus, P. resinosa. P. sylvestris), Abies balsamea, Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Acer rubrum Vaccinium angustifolium, Gaultheria hispidula, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Diervilla lonicera, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis, Coptis trifolia, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Aralia nudicaulis Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum

229 G114Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Pine - Black Spruce Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with moderate to high intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed to spruce and balsam fir or mixed wood ecosites near the northern boundaries of 4E and tolerant mixed hardwood in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. In the northern portion of 4E black spruce, jack pine, white birch, and balsam fir become more abundant in the overstory and understory. Associates such as red oak, white pine, and red maple are more abundant in 5E, and the trend continues southward to 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 065 Coarser textured 114 N/A 012, 024 Shallower 049, 050, 081, 083, 098, 099 Drier

230 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer G115Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar and/or eastern hemlock. May contain balsam fir, white birch, trembling aspen, balsam poplar, yellow birch, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white spruce, and red maple. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Eastern white cedar and eastern hemlock compose >50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, striped maple, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, twinflower, fragrant bedstraw, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V9 and V18; NE v-type V16. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Thuja occidentalis, (Tsuga canadensis), Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides, P. balsamifera, Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer pensylvanicum, Ribes glandulosum, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Galium triflorum, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Cornus canadensis Non-vascular Cladonia coniocraea

231 G115Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Hemlock - Cedar Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a late seral stage. Cedar and hemlock are susceptible to fire disturbance. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecosite will persist due to shade tolerance of seedlings. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from eastern white cedar dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to eastern white cedar / eastern hemlock stands in the south (5E). Pure eastern hemlock conditions often limited to cool moist slopes. Eastern red cedar may occur in 5E-7. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and balsam fir. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates with eastern hemlock in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 066 Coarser textured 115 N/A 013, 025 Shallower 051, 084, 100 Drier

232 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Spruce - Fir Conifer G116Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of spruce species and/or balsam fir. White spruce and balsam fir typically present in the main canopy, but may include black spruce and red spruce. May contain other species including trembling aspen, white birch, red maple and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, white birch, and trembling aspen. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and feathermoss. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO CO MO Approximately 250m S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Spruce and balsam fir compose > 50% of the tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, mountain maple, bush honeysuckle, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, bracken fern, large-leaved aster, and Schreber s moss. Often contains Central v- types V26 and V37; NE v-types V15, V13, V11, V12, V16, and V23. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea glauca, (P. rubens), Abies balsamea, Populus tremuloides, Betula papyrifera, Picea mariana, Acer rubrum, Thuja occidentalis Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer spicatum, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Pteridium aquilinum, Eurybia macrophyllus, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis Pleurozium schreberi

233 G116Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Spruce - Fir Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. This ecosite generally represents a mid to late seral stage. Maintenance of structure and composition generally associated with low to moderate intensity fire, however in the absence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. More commonly found in the Maritime provinces, red spruce reaches its westerly limit in Ontario. Red spruce can be found in rare instances as pure or mixed stands in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, and 5E-10. Common tree associates in 4E include white birch, eastern white pine, and trembling aspen. Yellow birch and sugar maple are more common tree associates in 5E and transitioning into 6E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 067 Coarser textured 116 N/A 014, 026 Shallower 052, 085, 101 Drier

234 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Conifer G117Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting of a mixture of black spruce, eastern white cedar, balsam fir, white spruce, red maple, white birch, tamarack, and eastern white pine. Stand composition is highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white cedar. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and feathermoss. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often consisting of dense, younger trees. Ecosite generally composed of a combination of conifer species where the combined total relative coverage is > 50% in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, twinflower, starflower, bunchberry, goldthread, bluebead-lily, and Schreber's moss. May contain NE v-type V15. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Picea mariana, Thuja occidentalis, Abies balsamea, Picea glauca, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Larix laricina, Pinus strobus, Betula alleghaniensis, Sorbus decora Gaultheria hispidula, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Vaccinium angustifolium, V. myrtilloides, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis, Coptis trifolia, Clintonia borealis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Bazzania trilobata var. trilobata, Sphagnum girgensohnii

235 G117Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Conifer Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Conifer litter and feathermoss abundance increases with canopy closure. Species diversity increases as canopy becomes more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, yellow birch, red maple, basswood, and red oak in the southern portion of 4E and throughout 5E. Red spruce likely in 5E-5, 5E-6, 5E-9, or 5E-10. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 068 Coarser textured 117 N/A 014, 026 Shallower 053, 086, 102 Drier

236 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Red Pine - White Pine Mixedwood G118Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood dominated canopy with a component of eastern white and/or red pine. May contain large-tooth aspen, white birch, red oak, trembling aspen, sugar maple, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, balsam fir, red maple, eastern white pine, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer and broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50% and eastern white and/or red pine with an absolute cover > 20% are diagnostic of this ecosite. Hardwood component variable from pure stands to a mixed condition. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, wintergreen, low sweet blueberry, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, bluebead-lily, and Schreber s moss. May contain Central v-types V23, V27, V28, and V34; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V10, and V12. Pinus strobus, Populus grandidentata, Betula papyrifera, Quercus rubra, Populus Trees tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Picea glauca, Betula alleghaniensis Shrubs Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Gaultheria procumbens, Vaccinium angustifolium, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, V. acerifolium CX AN Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis, Eurybia canadensis Pleurozium schreberi, Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea

237 G118Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: White Pine Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. Pine residuals are often reflective of past partial harvesting activity. In the absence of fire this ecosite will succeed through gap dynamic processes to an ecosite that favours shade-tolerant species. Inclusions of eastern white pine and/or red pine may persist for many decades. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including sugar maple, basswood, and ironwood in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 069 Coarser textured 118 N/A 015, 027 Shallower 054, 087, 103 Drier

238 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Aspen - Birch Hardwood G119Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of aspen and/or birch species. White birch, trembling aspen, large-tooth aspen, and yellow birch likely in the main canopy. May contain white spruce, balsam fir, and red maple, and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of balsam fir, white spruce, red maple, and white birch. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, mosses, and lichens. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Aspen and/or birch species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or birch or a mixture of both. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, bush honeysuckle, mountain maple, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-thevalley, large-leaved aster, and spinulose wood fern. May contain Central v-types V25, V28, V14, V11, V20, and V22-24; NE v-types V10, V13, V12, V15, and V6. Trees Populus tremuloides, (P. balsamifera, P. grandidentata), Betula papyrifera, (B. alleghaniensis), Picea glauca, Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Thuja occidentalis, Acer saccharum var. saccharum CX AN Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Diervilla lonicera, Acer spicatum Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Dryopteris carthusiana, Pteridium aquilinum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis, Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea, Pleurozium schreberi

239 G119Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Aspen - Birch Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Typically abundant and diverse fern cover. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. A major disturbance (e.g., fire, partially harvesting, agriculture abandonment) is required to maintain this ecosite. Aspen and/or birch regeneration after disturbance is quick through root suckering or seeding from adjacent stands often resulting in an even-aged overstory. In the absence of disturbance, the ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. The ecosite transitions from trembling aspen and white birch dominated stands in the northern portion (4E) of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range to yellow birch and large-tooth/trembling aspen stands in the south (5E). Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 070 Coarser textured 119 N/A 016, 028 Shallower 055, 088, 104 Drier

240 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Elm - Ash Hardwood G120Tt/Tl Not Available Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of elm and/or ash. Black ash and white elm typically present in the main canopy, but may contain white ash and green ash. May contain white spruce, trembling aspen, sugar maple, and red maple, yellow birch. Understory consisting of moderate levels of black ash, balsam fir, sugar maple, and red maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Approximately 250m Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Elm and/or ash species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, choke cherry, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, sensitive fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, and beautiful branch moss. Often contains Central v-type V7; NE v-types V9 and V14. Trees Shrubs Fraxinus nigra, (F. pennsylvanica, F. americana), Ulmus americana, Picea glauca, Populus tremuloides, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Populus balsamifera Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus, Ribes lacustre, Cornus alternifolia Vascular Herbaceous Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Onoclea sensibilis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Clintonia borealis Non-vascular Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea

241 G120Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Elm - Ash Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Typically abundant and diverse fern cover. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Elm and ash are much reduced from historical abundance and range due to pathogens and/or human exploitation. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire this ecosite will likely succeed to a mixedwood. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Black ash and white elm found throughout the range. White ash and green ash limited to 5E. Sugar maple, yellow birch, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 071 Coarser textured 120 N/A 019, 028 Shallower 056, 089, 105 Drier

242 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Oak Hardwood G121Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak typically present in the main canopy, but may include bur oak and white oak. May contain sugar maple, eastern white pine, white ash, American beech, and eastern hemlock. Understory consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, red maple, and red oak. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s CX AN Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, creeping partridge-berry, striped maple, wild lily-of-the-valley, largeleaved aster, wild sarsaparilla, hairy Solomon s seal, and powder horn lichen. Often contains Central v-types V5 and V6. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Quercus rubra, (Q. macrocarpa, Q. alba), Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Pinus strobus, Fraxinus americana, Tilia americana, Tsuga canadensis, Pinus banksiana, Populus grandidentata, P. tremuloides Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Mitchella repens, Acer pensylvanicum, Dirca palustris Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Eurybia macrophyllus, Aralia nudicaulis, Polygonatum pubescens, Oryzopsis asperifolia, Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum Cladonia coniocraea, Ptilidium pulcherrimum, Dicranum fuscescens var. fuscescens, Jamesoniella autumnalis var. autumnalis

243 G121Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Oak Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire. In the absence of fire gap dynamics will transform this ecosite to favour shade tolerant species resulting in an uneven aged forest. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Occurs in 4E-5, 5E- 1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species American basswood, large-tooth aspen, and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in the northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 072 Coarser textured 121 N/A 017, 028 Shallower 057, 090, 106 Drier

244 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Sugar Maple Hardwood G122Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of sugar maple. May contain yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir, black ash, and eastern hemlock. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Sugar maple compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, striped maple, leatherwood, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, starflower, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V1, V3, V5, V12, V13, V15, and V17; NE v-types V1 and V3. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Fagus grandifolia, Abies balsamea, Fraxinus nigra, Tsuga canadensis, Ostrya virginiana, Quercus rubra, Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Picea glauca Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Acer pensylvanicum, Dirca palustris Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Trillium erectum Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum

245 G122Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Sugar Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours sugar maple and American beech, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 073, 074, 075 Coarser textured , 124 Increased Maple Diversity 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

246 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Red Maple Hardwood G123Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of red maple. May contain yellow birch, balsam fir, sugar maple, black cherry, and white spruce. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, sugar maple, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Red maple compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes northern wild raisin, creeping partridge-berry, striped maple, fly honeysuckle, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-thevalley, starflower, rose twisted-stalk, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V14 and V15; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, V6, and V7. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Abies balsamea, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Prunus serotina, Picea glauca, Tsuga canadensis, Thuja occidentalis Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Mitchella repens, Acer pensylvanicum, Lonicera canadensis, Viburnum lantanoides Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Clintonia borealis Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Callicladium haldanianum, Cladonia coniocraea

247 G123Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Red Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Typically abundant and diverse fern cover. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours red maple, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, American beech, balsam fir and ironwood are more frequent in 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Red oak, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine likely throughout 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 073, 074, 075 Coarser textured , 124 Increased Maple Diversity 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

248 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Maple Hardwood G124Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Sugar maple, red maple, and silver maple likely in the main canopy. May contain white birch, eastern white pine, trembling aspen, white spruce, balsam fir, and yellow birch. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of red maple, sugar maple, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy to clayey. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, mountain maple, striped maple, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, wild lily-of-the-valley, false Solomon's seal, and reflexed Brachythecium moss. May contain Central v-types V14 and V15; NE v-types V1-V4, V6, and V7. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, A. rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Tilia americana, Betula papyrifera, Ostrya virginiana, Fraxinus americana, Fagus grandifolia, Quercus rubra Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum, A. pensylvanicum, Diervilla lonicera, Viburnum lantanoides Dryopteris canadensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, M. racemosum ssp. racemosum, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Polygonatum pubescens Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum, Cladonia coniocraea, Callicladium haldanianum

249 G124Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Maple Hardwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Typically abundant and diverse fern cover. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Without the influence of fire, the vegetation will not likely succeed to another ecosite. Lack of fire favours maple species, shade tolerant species will become more prominent. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red maple and sugar maple forests and silver maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, red maple, and white elm in 4E and northern 5E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Yellow birch becomes more likely as you move south. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 073, 074, 075 Coarser textured , 123 Increased Maple Diversity 018, 028 Shallower 058, 091, 107 Drier

250 Profile/Slope Sequence Moist, Fine: Mixedwood G125Tt/Tl Not Available Approximately 250m Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of sugar maple, trembling aspen, American basswood, black cherry, red maple, ironwood, and American beech. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of high levels of sugar maple, ironwood, American basswood, American beech, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter. Substrate silty to fine loamy. Mostly > 15 cm deep and moist (MR = 4 or 5). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO S2 M7 M11 MD7 MD9 MD11 MD15 D7 D9 D11 D15 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes fly honeysuckle, creeping partridge-berry, striped maple, wild lily-of-the-valley, hairy Solomon's seal, wild sarsaparilla, spinulose wood fern, and beautiful branch moss. May contain Central v-types V1, V3, V5, and V7; NE v-types V1, V2, V4, and V6-V8. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Populus tremuloides, Tilia americana, Prunus serotina, Acer rubrum, Ostrya virginiana, Fagus grandifolia, Betula alleghaniensis Lonicera canadensis, Mitchella repens, Acer pensylvanicum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer spicatum Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Polygonatum pubescens, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium reflexum var. reflexum

251 G125Tt/Tl Moist, Fine: Mixedwood Ecology Substrate is nutrient rich and has good moisture holding capacity required for plant growth. Typically abundant and diverse fern cover. Limitations to tree growth result from vegetative competition. Shrub and herb poor under a closed canopy. Species diversity increases as canopy become more open. Maintenance of structure and composition associated with low to moderate intensity fire or repeated human disturbance (e.g., agricultural clearing, partial harvesting). Mixed species compositions are generally stable and can persist with non stand replacing disturbances, such as wind and insect damage. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range due to infrequency of fine textured materials, occurring in 4E-5, 5E-1, 5E-3, 5E-4, 5E-5, and 5E-8. Ecosite also limited and uncommon due to clearing of land for agriculture. Abundant throughout 4E and 5E. Generally on flat to undulating glaciolacustrine deposits, glaciofluvial material in large river valleys, and flat to rolling fine textured morainal materials throughout the range. Rugged bedrock controlled topography occurs in 5E-1, 5E-3, and 5E-5. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Mixed forests of red oak, red maple, sugar maple, white birch, balsam fir, and eastern white pine occur throughout 4E. Bitternut hickory, butternut, green ash, and wild black cherry may occur in the southern part of 5E. Boreal hardwoods, trembling aspen and white birch, more common in northern portion of 4E. Edaphic Variability Typically uniform in nutrient availability with variable moisture due to inconsistency of substrate depth over bedrock. Mostly on middle or lower slopes or in depressions. Black spruce, speckled alder, and peat substrates more abundant in depressions on moderately deep substrates. Related Ecosites Key 10 Moister 076 Coarser textured 125 N/A 019, 028 Shallower 059, 092, 108 Drier

252 Profile/Slope Sequence Low Treed Bog G126Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce. May contain other species including tamarack in the main canopy. Understory tree species consisting of low levels of black spruce. Shrub and herb poor. Ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and Spaghnum mosses. Substrate organic. Mostly deep > 40 cm organic material and wet (MR = 7, 8, 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Tall trees (> 10 m) absent or limited to 25% cover. Low treed ( 10 m) open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Tall and low trees must have > 25% total absolute cover. System must be hydrologically isolated. Common understory vegetation includes leatherleaf, sheep laurel, bog laurel, small cranberry, few-seeded sedge, sheathed cotton-grass, tall cotton-grass, small red peat moss, poor-fen peat moss, and common brown peat moss. Trees Picea mariana, Larix laricina Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Chamaedaphne calyculata, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia, K. polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Gaultheria hispidula, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Vaccinium myrtilloides Carex oligosperma, Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Carex magellanica ssp. irrigua, Maianthemum trifolium, Sarracenia purpurea ssp. purpurea, Oclemena nemoralis Sphagnum capillifolium, S. angustifolium, S. fuscum, S. magellanicum, S. fallax

253 G126Tt/Tl Low Treed Bog Ecology Substrate is nutrient poor. Nutrient availability and excess moisture limit plant growth. Generally sparse, slow growing, uneven-aged stands with variable tree density. Diversity of vascular plants is low. Vegetation is characterized by bog species (e.g., Sphagnum mosses and woody vegetation adapted to nutrient-poor site conditions), minerotrophic species when present occur only as single individuals. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally restricted to 5E. Confined to bedrock depressions or associated with large peatland systems (e.g., raised dome in fens). Generally level to undulating organic deposits. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions. Often found as part of a complex associated with poor conifer swamps, fens, or open bogs. Tamarack when present often found on the edge of the ecosite. Varies from flat to hummocky. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of vegetation reflective of drier conditions such as low ericaceous shrubs, and wetter hollows supporting graminoid species. Related Ecosites 136, 137 Tree cover 25% N/A or more swamp indicators present 024 Shallower

254 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Poor Conifer Swamp G127Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce. May contain other species including tamarack and jack pine in the main canopy. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate organic. Typically deep (> 40 cm) organic material but may include shallow organic material over bedrock. Wet (MR = 7, 8, 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O1 O2 O3 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, low sweet blueberry, Labrador-tea, goldthread, bunchberry, three-leaved Solomon's seal, Schreber's moss, common green peat moss, and midway peat moss. Often contains Central v-type V35 and V41; NE v-type V24-V26, and V28. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina, Pinus banksiana Gaultheria hispidula, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Ilex mucronata Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum trifolium, Carex trisperma, Clintonia borealis Pleurozium schreberi, Sphagnum girgensohnii, S. magellanicum, Cladina rangiferina, Dicranum polysetum, Ptilidium ciliare, Spaghnum capillifolium

255 G127Tt/Tl Organic Poor Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate is nutrient poor. Nutrient availability and excess moisture limit plant growth. Not hydrologically isolated resulting in increased nutrient availability through groundwater enrichment compared to G126. Generally open, slow growing, uneven-aged stands with variable tree density. Shrub abundance increased as canopy becomes more open. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Confined to depressions in bedrock, associated with large peatland systems, or riparian areas such as flood plains along lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating deep organic deposits overlying glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Calcareous mineral material underlying a deep organic substrate may result in increased diversity and vigour. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Shallow to deep substrates. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions. Often found as part of a peatland complex associated with intermediate conifer swamps, fens, or bogs. Increased water flow results in more tamarack, speckled alder, sedges, and minerotrophic indicators and may grade into an organic intermediate swamp (G128). Varies from flat to hummocky. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of vegetation reflective of drier conditions such as feathermoss, eastern white pine and white birch. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% 126 Swamp indicators absent; hydrologically isolated Mineral substrate or more intermediate or rich swamp indicators 024, 026 Shallower

256 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Poor Conifer Swamp G222Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce. May contain other species including white spruce, balsam fir, and tamarack in the main canopy. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate mineral or peaty phase. Mostly moderately deep to deep mineral material and very moist (MR = 6) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes velvet-leaf blueberry, creeping snowberry, Labrador-tea, bunchberry, goldthread, wild lily-of-the-valley, and Schreber's moss. Often contains Central v-type V37 and V39-V41; NE v-type V21, and V23-V28. Trees Picea mariana, P glauca, Abies balsamea, Larix laricina Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Vaccinium myrtilloides, Gaultheria hispidula, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Vaccinium angustifolium, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia Cornus canadensis, Coptis trifolia, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Non-vascular Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum, Ptilidium ciliare, Cladonia coniocraea

257 G222Tt/Tl Mineral Poor Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate is nutrient poor. Nutrient availability and excess moisture limit plant growth. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Generally open, slow growing, uneven-aged stands with variable tree density. Shrub abundance increases as canopy becomes more open. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Forested swamps may convert to a mineral swamp thicket (G136) following fire, logging, windthrow, or temporary changes in hydrology due to beaver activity. Successional trends result in uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range confined to depressions in bedrock, associated with large peatland systems, or riparian areas such as flood plains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Shallow to deep substrates. Overstory and understory diversity is dependent on moisture and nutrient gradients in addition to the bedrock chemistry. Generally on lower or level slopes or depressions associated with bedrock landscapes. Often found as part of a complex associated with intermediate conifer swamps or fens. Increased water flow results in more tamarack, speckled alder, sedges, and minerotrophic indicators and may grade into an organic intermediate swamp (G128). Varies from flat to hummocky. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of vegetation reflective of drier conditions such as feathermoss, eastern white pine and white birch. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% 126 Swamp indicators absent; hydrologically isolated Organic substrate or more intermediate or rich swamp indicators 024, 026 Shallower Key 9, Key 6 Drier

258 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Intermediate Conifer Swamp G128Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce, tamarack, balsam fir, eastern white pine, and red maple in the main canopy. Speckled alder and/or intermediate swamp indicators may be present. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub moderately poor. Ericaceous shrubs typically abundant. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate organic. Typically deep (> 40 cm) organic material but may include shallow organic material over bedrock. Wet (MR = 7, 8, 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 O3 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, low sweet blueberry, Labrador-tea, goldthread, bunchberry, bluebead-lily, common green peat moss, midway peat moss, and small red peat moss. Often contains Central v-type V35, V36, V38, and V41; NE v-type V24-V26, and V28. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina, Abies balsamea, Pinus strobus, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis Gaultheria hispidula, Vaccinium angustifolium, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Ilex mucronata, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa Coptis trifolia, Cornus canadensis, Clintonia borealis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Carex trisperma, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Osmunda cinnamomea Sphagnum girgensohnii, S. magellanicum, S. capillifolium, Pleurozium schreberi, Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea

259 G128Tt/Tl Organic Intermediate Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient and good moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Increased herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth can be found in intermediate conifer swamps compared to poor conifer swamps (G127). Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range generally associated with riparian areas such as flood plains along lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating deep organic deposits overlying glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Calcareous mineral material underlying a deep organic substrate may result in increased diversity and vigour. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in the southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, whitegrained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% or more swamp indicators present Mineral substrate or more rich swamp indicators; abundant Cw and La 024, 026 Shallower

260 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Intermediate Conifer Swamp G223Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce, balsam fir, tamarack, white birch, jack pine, eastern white cedar, and trembling aspen. Speckled alder and/or intermediate swamp indicators may be present. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub moderately rich. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate mineral or peaty phase. Mostly moderately deep to deep mineral material and very moist (MR = 6) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Family Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, low sweet blueberry, northern wild raisin, mountain-holly, bunchberry, goldthread, wild lily-of-the-valley, bluebead-lily, starflower, and common green peat moss. Often contains Central v-type V12, V35, V37-V39, and V41; NE v-type V15, V20, V23, V24, V26, V27. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Picea mariana, Abies balsamea, Larix laricina, Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Thuja occidentalis, Populus tremuloides Gaultheria hispidula, Vaccinium angustifolium, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Ilex mucronata, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia Cornus canadensis, Coptis trifolia, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Clintonia borealis Non-vascular Spaghnum girgensohnii, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum polysetum

261 G223Tt/Tl Mineral Intermediate Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient and good moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching site with mineral and organic material. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Increased herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth can be found in mineral intermediate conifer swamps compared to mineral poor conifer swamps (G222). Limitations to tree growth result from high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of site. Forested swamps may convert to a mineral swamp thicket (G136) following fire, logging, windthrow, or temporary changes in hydrology due to beaver activity. Successional trends result in uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range generally associated with riparian areas such as flood plains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Shallow to deep substrates. Overstory and understory diversity is dependent on the moisture and nutrient gradients in addition to the bedrock chemistry. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% or more swamp indicators present Organic substrate or more rich swamp indicators 024, 026 Shallower Key 9, Key 6 Drier

262 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Rich Conifer Swamp G129Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar, balsam fir, black spruce, black ash, white spruce, white birch, and yellow birch. Rich swamp indicators may be present. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, eastern white cedar, and black ash. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter, broadleaf litter, and mosses. Substrate organic. Typically deep (> 40 cm) organic material but may include shallow organic material over bedrock. Wet (MR = 7, 8, 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 O3 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes creeping snowberry, twinflower, fly honeysuckle, speckled alder, bunchberry, starflower, goldthread, bluebead-lily, common green peat moss, Schreber's moss, and three-lobed Bazzania. Often contains Central v-type V8, V9, V21, V35-V38; NE v-type V24-V27. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Tsuga canadensis, Abies balsamea, Picea mariana, Fraxinus nigra, Picea glauca, Betula papyrifera, B. alleghaniensis, Thuja occidentalis Gaultheria hispidula, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Lonicera canadensis, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Acer spicatum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Cornus canadensis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Clintonia borealis, Rubus pubescens, Aralia nudicaulis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense Spaghnum girgensohnii, Pleurozium schreberi, Bazzania trilobata, Cladonia coniocraea, Spaghnum magellanicum, Plagiothecium laetum

263 G129Tt/Tl Organic Rich Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth can be found in rich conifer swamps compared to intermediate conifer swamps (G128). Decreased understory diversity and abundance with dense canopy cover. Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range generally associated with riparian areas such as flood plains along lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating deep organic deposits overlying glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Calcareous mineral material underlying a deep organic substrate may result in increased diversity and vigour. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins, likely adjacent to open peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% or more intermediate/rich swamp indicators present Mineral substrate 024, 026 Shallower

264 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Rich Conifer Swamp G224Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of eastern white cedar, balsam fir, white birch, eastern white pine, black spruce, trembling aspen, yellow birch, and red maple. Rich swamp indicators may be present. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, and eastern white cedar. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter and broadleaf litter. Substrate mineral or peaty phase. Mostly moderately deep to deep mineral material and very moist (MR = 6) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, twinflower, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, starflower, goldthread, bluebead-lily, and glossy moss. Often contains Central v-type V8, V9, V11, V12, V14, V18, V19, V21-V23, V29, V35, V37-V39; NE v-type V8, V15, V16, V23, and V25. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Thuja occidentalis, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Pinus strobus, Picea glauca, P. mariana, Populus tremuloides, Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum, Sorbus decora Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Gaultheria hispidula, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Vaccinium angustifolium Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Coptis trifolia, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Dryopteris carthusiana Plagiothecium laetum, Pleurozium schreberi

265 G224Tt/Tl Mineral Rich Conifer Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching site with mineral and organic material. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth can be found in mineral rich conifer swamps compared to mineral intermediate conifer swamps (G223). Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of site. Forested swamps may convert to a mineral swamp thicket (G136) following fire, logging, windthrow, or temporary changes in hydrology due to beaver activity. Successional trends result in uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range generally associated with riparian areas such as flood plains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including yellow birch, black ash, silver maple in southern portion of 4E throughout 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins, likely adjacent to open peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 136 Tree cover 25% or more intermediate/ rich swamp indicators present Organic substrate 024, 026 Shallower Key 9, Key 6 Drier

266 Profile/Slope Sequence Intolerant Hardwood Swamp G130Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of black ash, green ash, trembling aspen, and/or balsam poplar. May contain balsam fir, white birch, eastern white cedar, white spruce, and red maple. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, black ash, trembling aspen, red maple, and white spruce. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly conifer litter and broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss and sphagnum. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Black ash, green ash, trembling aspen and/or large-tooth aspen species compose > 50% of the hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Ecosite variable from dominant stands of aspen and/or ash to mixed conditions. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, beaked hazel, fly honeysuckle, swamp black currant, northern wild raisin, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, wild lily-of-the-valley, naked mitrewort, sensitive fern, Schreber's moss, and common green peat moss. Often contains Central v-types V7-9, V20, and V22. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Populus tremuloides, Fraxinus nigra, Populus balsamifera, (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Picea glauca, Acer rubrum Acer spicatum, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Lonicera canadensis, Ribes lacustre, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Prunus virginiana var. virginiana, Linnaea borealis ssp. longiflora, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Mitella nuda, Galium triflorum, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Onoclea sensibilis, Carex vaginata Pleurozium schreberi, Callicladium haldanianum, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, Cladonia coniocraea, Plagiothecium laetum, Sphagnum girgensohnii CX AN

267 G130Tt/Tl Intolerant Hardwood Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Hardwood swamps are the richest of hydric ecosites leading to abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth. Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Successional trends result in an uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Confined to depressions, or riparian areas such as floodplains along lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, red maple, and white elm in 4E and northern 5E. Yellow birch becomes more likely as you move south. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water, lakes, or peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 130 N/A 027, 028 Shallower 070, 071, 076, 119, 120, 125 Drier

268 Profile/Slope Sequence Maple Hardwood Swamp G131Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of maple species. Red maple, sugar maple, and silver maple likely in main canopy. May contain trembling aspen, black ash, balsam fir, yellow birch, and eastern white cedar. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple, sugar maple, and black ash. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s CX AN Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Maple species compose > 50% of hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes beaked hazel, striped maple, mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, northern wild raisin, wild lily-of-the-valley, rose twisted-stalk, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, sedges, powder horn lichen, and Brachythecium spp. Often contains Central v-types V6, V7, V9, and V12. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Acer rubrum, A. saccharum var. saccharum, A. saccharinum, Populus tremuloides, Fraxinus nigra, Abies balsamea, Betula alleghaniensis, Thuja occidentalis Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer pensylvanicum, A. spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Cornus stolonifera, Ilex mucronata Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Carex spp., Onoclea sensibilis, Clintonia borealis, Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum, Rubus pubescens Cladonia coniocraea, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum, B. reflexum var. reflexum, Callicladium haldanianum, Plagiothecium laetum

269 G131Tt/Tl Maple Hardwood Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Hardwood swamps are the richest of hydric ecosites leading to abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth. Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to wetness of site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Successional trends result in an uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Confined to depressions, or riparian areas such as floodplains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red maple forests found throughout the range. Sugar maple and silver maple dominated forests are more likely in southern 4E and 5E. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, red maple, and white elm in 4E and northern 5E. Yellow birch becomes more likely as you move south. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water, lakes, or peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 131 N/A 027, 028 Shallower 073, 074, 075, 122, 123, 124 Drier

270 Profile/Slope Sequence Oak Hardwood Swamp G132Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of oak species. Red oak, bur oak, and white oak species likely in main canopy. May contain sugar maple, red maple, white birch, yellow birch, and green ash. Understory consisting of high levels of bur oak, red maple, and balsam fir. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure variable. Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Oak species compose > 50% of hardwood tree species in the main canopy. Common understory vegetation includes rough-leaved dogwood, beaked hazel, winterberry, northern wild raisin, sensitive fern, wild lily-of-the-valley, wild sarsaparilla, large-leaved aster, and glossy moss. Often contains Central v-types V6. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Quercus macrocarpa, Fraxinus nigra, F. americana, Ulmus americana, Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum, Tilia americana, Fraxinus pensylvanica, Quercus rubra Cornus rugosa, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Ilex verticillata, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis Onoclea sensibilis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Aralia nudicaulis, Eurybia macrophyllus, Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Cornus canadensis Plagiothecium laetum, Climacium dendroides, Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum

271 G132Tt/Tl Oak Hardwood Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Hardwood swamps are the richest of hydric ecosites leading to abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth. Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Successional trends result in an uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Generally found in 5E. Confined to depressions, or riparian areas such as floodplains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Red oak dominated forest found throughout the range. Bur oak is uncommon and limited to 5E. Occurrences of white oak begin in the extreme southern portions of 5E and become more prevalent as you move further south. Associated tree species yellow birch, American basswood, large-tooth aspen and shrub species winterberry and leatherwood are more frequent in 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water, lakes, or peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 132 N/A 027, 028 Shallower 072, 121 Drier

272 Profile/Slope Sequence Hardwood Swamp G133Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Hardwood canopy consisting of a mixture of yellow birch, red maple. balsam fir, white birch, and eastern white cedar. Stand composition highly variable. Understory tree species consisting of moderate levels of balsam fir, red maple and sugar maple. Shrub and herb rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter with occurrences of feathermoss. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Vegetation Description Tall treed (> 10 m) and low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Canopy closure open (> 25% and 60%) or closed (> 60%). Low treed condition often indicative of younger trees. Hardwood species with a relative cover > 50%. Common understory vegetation includes mountain maple, fly honeysuckle, beaked hazel, striped maple, northern wild raisin, starflower, spinulose wood fern, wild sarsaparilla, bluebead-lily, bunchberry, and glossy moss. Often contains Central v-types V7-V9, V14-16, V18, and V22; NE v-types V7-13. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous k n z Betula alleghaniensis, Acer rubrum, Abies balsamea, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis, Acer saccharum var. saccharum, Picea glauca, Tilia americana, Populus tremuloides, P. balsamifera, Fraxinus nigra, Tsuga canadensis, Picea mariana Acer spicatum, Lonicera canadensis, Corylus cornuta ssp. cornuta, Acer pensylvanicum, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides Trientalis borealis ssp. borealis, Dryopteris carthusiana, Aralia nudicaulis, Clintonia borealis, Cornus canadensis, Maianthemum canadense ssp. canadense, Rubus pubescens, Coptis trifolia, Streptopus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus CX AN Non-vascular Plagiothecium laetum, Cladonia coniocraea, Dicranum flagellare

273 G133Tt/Tl Hardwood Swamp Ecology Substrate has good nutrient and moisture conditions for plant growth. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Moisture content high. Hardwood swamps are the richest of the hydric ecosites leading to abundant herbaceous cover including graminoids, ferns, and herbs and vigorous tree and shrub growth. Limitations to tree growth are the result of high levels of moisture. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Successional trends result in an uneven-aged stand. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. Confined to depressions, or riparian areas such as floodplains associated with lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased diversity and vigour of the understory may occur. Wide variety of associated vegetation including eastern white cedar, red maple, and white elm in 4E and northern 5E. Mixed forest that may contain yellow birch, American basswood, sugar maple, and silver maple more frequent in 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water, lakes, or peatlands. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of feathermosses and tree species reflective of drier conditions. Seasonal and persistent water filled depressions are common and can support unique communities of bryophytes, sedges, and assorted shrubs. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites N/A N/A 133 N/A 027, 028 Shallower 076, 125 Drier

274 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Thicket Swamp G134S Ecosite Description Tall shrub community. Tree poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, dead wood, and mineral material. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate mineral or peaty phase. Mostly moderately deep to deep mineral material and very moist (MR = 6). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s R VS S M MD D k n z Tall deciduous shrub cover > 25%, tree cover 10%. Canopy closure variable. Ecosite variable from stands dominated by one tall shrub specie to a variable mix of tall and short shrub species. When present common tree species may include black ash, black spruce, and red maple. Shrub species commonly found include speckled alder, willows, mountain-holly, dwarf birch, and red-osier dogwood. Herbaceous understory vegetation may include blue-joint grass, sedges, and spotted jewel-weed. Sphagnum and Mnium species are the dominant mosses. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Fraxinus nigra, Picea mariana, Acer rubrum, Ulmus americana, Thuja occidentalis, Fraxinus pensylvanica, Acer saccharinum, Larix laricina Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix spp., Ilex mucronata, Betula pumila var. pumila, Cornus stolonifera, Ilex verticillata, Spiraea alba var. alba, Myrica gale, Rhamnus alnifolia, Cephalanthus occidentalis Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Carex spp., Impatiens capensis, Onoclea sensibilis, Scutellaria galericulata var. pubescens, Aster lanceolatus, Dulichium arundinaceum var. arundinaceum, Osmunda cinnamomea Sphagnum spp., Mnium spp.

275 G134S Mineral Thicket Swamp Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient and good moisture conditions for shrub and herbaceous growth, generally too wet for trees to become established. Vegetation predominately hydrophytic. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. The extent and frequency of flooding limits the accumulation of organic matter. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Dense, nearly continuous shrub canopy favours shade-tolerant species in the ground layer and a decrease in moss coverage. Origin of the ecosite may occur following disturbances (e.g., logging, fire, windthrow or temporary changes in hydrology due to beaver activity) that eliminate trees in a forested swamp. Relative stable ecosite but may succeed to a forested mineral swamp with a stable water table. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in bedrock depressions, open water margins along peatlands and upland borders, or associated with large peatland systems or riparian areas such as flood plains adjacent to lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Thickets containing mountainholly, alder-leaved buckthorn, or buttonbush occur east of Lake Superior. Thickets dominated by these species may occur along the southern edge of 5E. Speckled alder and dwarf birch more common in 4E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Very shallow to deep materials. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often located adjacent to or as patches within forested rich swamp communities, or part of a complex associated with treed or shrub fens or treed bogs. Microtopography variable from uniformly level to mounds and hollows, resulting in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of swamp forest herbs and mosses such as dwarf raspberry, Canada mayflower, and starflower. Related Ecosites 142, 143 Tree cover 10% and shrub cover 25% 135 Organic substrate 134 N/A 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 222, 223, 224 Tree cover > 25%

276 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Thicket Swamp G135S Ecosite Description Tall shrub community. Tree poor. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly broadleaf litter, dead wood, and Sphagnum mosses. Evidence of vernal pools or presence of standing water common. Substrate organic. Mostly deep and wet (MR = 7, 8, 9). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Tall deciduous shrub cover > 25%, tree cover 10%. Canopy closure variable. Ecosite variable from stands dominated by one tall shrub specie to a variable mix of tall and short shrub species. When present common tree species may include black ash, black spruce, and red maple. Shrub species may include speckled alder, willows, mountain-holly, and red-osier dogwood. Herbaceous understory vegetation may include royal fern, three-leaved Solomon's seal, and sedges. Bryophyte species may include common green peat moss, midway peat moss, and small red peat moss. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Fraxinus nigra, Picea mariana, Acer rubrum, Ulmus americana, Thuja occidentalis, Fraxinus pensylvanica, Larix laricina Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Ilex mucronata, Salix spp., Cornus stolonifera, Spiraea alba var. alba, Ilex verticillata Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis, Maianthemum trifolium, Carex spp., Dryopteris carthusiana, Coptis trifolia, Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Glyceria striata Non-vascular Sphagnum girgensohnii, S. magellanicum, S. capillifolium, Pleurozium schreberi

277 G135S Organic Thicket Swamp Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient and good moisture conditions for shrub and herbaceous growth, generally too wet for trees to become established. Vegetation predominately hydrophytic. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Frequency and extent of flooding is limited allowing the accumulation of organic material. Ecosite tends to be more open than a mineral thicket swamp (G134) with high Sphagnum moss cover. Dense, nearly continuous shrub canopy favours shade-tolerant species in the ground layer and a decrease in moss coverage. Origin of the ecosite may occur following disturbances (e.g., logging, fire, windthrow or temporary changes in hydrology due to beaver activity) that eliminate trees in a forested swamp. Relative stable ecosite but may succeed to a forested organic swamp with a stable water table. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in bedrock depressions, open water margins along peatlands and upland borders, or associated with large peatland systems or riparian areas such as flood plains adjacent to lakes, streams, or rivers. Generally level to undulating organic deposits. When underlying bedrock or substrate mineralogy is calcareous and the depth of the organic layer is not very deep, increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Thickets containing mountain-holly, alder-leaved buckthorn, or buttonbush occur east of Lake Superior. Thickets dominated by these species and virginia chain fern may occur along the southern edge of 5E. Speckled alder and dwarf birch more common in 4E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Very shallow to deep materials. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often located adjacent to or as patches within forested rich swamp communities, or part of a complex associated with mineral thicket swamps, treed or shrub fens or treed bogs. Microtopography variable from uniformly level to mounds and hollows, resulting in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of swamp forest herbs and mosses such as dwarf raspberry, Canada mayflower, and starflower. Related Ecosites 144 Tree cover 10% and shrub cover 25% 136 Tree cover > 10% Mineral substrate 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 222, 223, 224 Tree cover > 25%

278 Profile/Slope Sequence Sparse Treed Fen G136Tl/Tt Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce with tamarack and/or presence of fen indicators. Understory tree species consisting of black spruce and tamarack. Shrub and herb moderately rich. Ericaceous shrubs abundant. Ground surface mostly deciduous litter and Spaghnum moss. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O1 O2 O3 O4 O5 O6 O7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Tall trees (> 10 m) absent or limited to 25% cover. Low treed sparse (> 10% and 25%) or open (> 25% and 60%). Characterized by high cover of shrubs, sedges, and/or bryophytes. Common understory vegetation includes sweet gale, speckled alder, leatherleaf, red-osier dogwood, slender sedge, northern bugleweed, fewseeded sedge, pitcher-plant, midway peat moss, common green peat moss, and common brown peat moss. May contain NE v-types V25, V28, V24, V21, and V26. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina Myrica gale, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Chamaedaphne calyculata, Cornus stolonifera, Andromeda polifolia var. glaucophylla, Aronia melanocarpa, Spiraea alba var. alba, Ilex verticillata, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Rhododendron groenlandicum Carex lasiocarpa ssp. americana, Lycopus uniflorus, Carex oligosperma, Sarracenia purpurea ssp. purpurea, Maianthemum trifolium, Drosera rotundifolia Sphagnum magellanicum, S. girgensohnii, S. fuscum, S. angustifolium, Pleurozium schreberi

279 G136Tt/Tl Sparse Treed Fen Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient and excess moisture, limiting plant growth. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Generally open, slow growing, uneven-aged stands with variable tree density. Black spruce and sphagnum occurs in poor fens with increasing brown moss abundance. In richer fens, tamarack may replace black spruce with increasing cover of sedges. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Confined to ground-water fed depressions, gradual seepage slopes, or protected riparian areas associated with lakes and ponds. Generally level to undulating organic, glaciolacustrine, and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Black spruce and tamarack common tree species throughout the range. Winterberry, mountain-holly, and large cranberry more common shrub species in southern 4E and 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins, likely adjacent to bog, other fen, or marsh ecosites. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of moss and herb species reflective of drier conditions. Xeric vegetation such as eastern white pine, white-grained mountain-rice, as well as decreased shrub and herb diversity and abundance likely on occasional exposures of bedrock or very shallow substrates. Related Ecosites 139, 140, 141 Tree cover 10% 137 La and fen indicators absent; trees are low and stunted 136 N/A 024, 026 Shallower 128, 223, 129, 224 Tree cover > 25%

280 Profile/Slope Sequence Sparse Treed Bog G137Tt/Tl Ecosite Description Conifer canopy consisting mostly of black spruce with small amounts of other species. Understory tree species consisting of black spruce and balsam fir. Shrub and herb poor. Ericaceous shrubs abundant. Ground surface mostly deciduous litter and Spaghnum moss. Substrate organic. Mostly deep and wet (MR = 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Low treed ( 10 m) ecosites common. Tall trees (> 10 m) absent or limited to 25% cover. Low treed sparse (> 10% and 25%) or open (> 25% and 60%). Hydrologically isolated. Characterized by high cover of shrubs, sedges, and/or bryophytes. Common understory vegetation includes leatherleaf, sheep laurel, bog laurel, pitcher-plant, three-leaved Solomon's seal, sheathed cotton-grass, small red peat moss, common brown peat moss, and poor-fen peat moss. May contain NE v-types V24, V26, V25, and V28. Trees Picea mariana Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Chamaedaphne calyculata, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia, K. polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Gaultheria hispidula, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Vaccinium myrtilloides Sarracenia purpurea ssp. purpurea, Maianthemum trifolium, Eriophorum vaginatum, Carex oligosperma, Carex pauciflora Sphagnum capillifolium, S. fuscum, S. angustifolium, S. magellanicum, Pleurozium schreberi

281 G137Tt/Tl Sparse Treed Bog Ecology Substrate has low nutrient and excess moisture, limiting plant growth. Generally open, slow growing, uneven-aged stands with variable tree density. Diversity of vascular plants is low. Vegetation is characterized by Sphagnum mosses and woody vegetation adapted to nutrientpoor site conditions. Fire frequency low due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and uncommon across Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. This ecosite is more common in the north. Confined to bedrock depressions or associated with large peatland systems (e.g., raised dome in fens). Generally level to undulating organic deposits. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions. Often found as part of a complex associated with poor conifer swamps or fens. Tamarack when present often found on the edge of the ecosite. Varies from flat to hummocky. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of vegetation reflective of drier conditions such as feathermoss, eastern white pine, white birch, and balsam fir. Related Ecosites 138 Tree cover 10% N/A La 10% and fen indicators present 024, 026 Shallower 127, 222 Tree cover > 25%

282 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Bog G138S/N Ecosite Description Low shrub, bryophyte, or graminoid communities. Tree poor. Shrubs when present are ericaceous. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly Sphagnum mosses and deciduous litter. Substrate organic. Mostly deep and wet (MR = 7, 8, or 9). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Chemistry k n z Vegetation Description Typically low shrub, however may be bryophytes, general Sphagnum ssp., and/or graminoids dominated systems. Tree cover 10%, and tall shrub cover 25%. System must be hydrologically isolated. Fen indicators absent, species poor. Tree species if present include stunted black spruce. Shrubs commonly encountered include leatherleaf, Labrador tea, bog rosemary, and small cranberry. Herbaceous species include few-seeded sedge, dense cottongrass, and three-seeded sedge. Bryophytes species include Warnstorf's peat moss, common brown peat moss, and midway peat moss. G138S - Shrub cover > 10%. G138N - Shrub cover 10%, may be a herbaceous or non-vascular dominated community. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana Chamaedaphne calyculata, Rhododendron groenlandicum, Andromeda polifolia var. glaucophylla, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Kalmia polifolia, Gaultheria hispidula, Kalmia angustifolia var. angustifolia Carex oligosperma, Eriophorum vaginatum, Carex pauciflora, Sarracenia purpurea, Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum angustifolium, Maianthemum trifolium Sphagnum warnstorfii, S. fuscum, S. magellanicum, S. angustifolium

283 G138S/N Open Bog Ecology Substrate extremely low in nutrients and acidic limiting plant growth. Peat surface has become elevated, isolating it from mineral-rich runoff or groundwater. Vegetation is predominately hydrophytic. Diversity of vascular plants is low. Vegetation is characterized by Sphagnum mosses, graminoids, and woody vegetation adapted to nutrient-poor site conditions. May succeed from a treed bog where the trees have been eliminated due to disturbance. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread and uncommon across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. More abundant in 4E. Confined to bedrock depressions or associated with large peatland systems (e.g., raised dome or openings in treed bogs or fens). Generally level to undulating organic deposits. Virginia chain fern, hidden-fruited bladderwort, and Billing's Three-seeded Sedge may occur along the southern edge of 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Generally on lower or level slopes, in depressions. Often found as part of a peatland complex, occasionally on shores (but isolated from groundwater). May grade into a sparse treed bog or poor fen. Microtopography variable ranging from uniformly level to mounds and hollows. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of vegetation reflective of drier conditions such as low ericaceous shrubs, and wetter hollows supporting graminoid species. Related Ecosites 145, 149 Increased water N/A , 140, 141 Fen indicators present; not hydrologically isolated 137 Tree cover > 10%

284 Profile/Slope Sequence Poor Fen G139S/N Ecosite Description Bryophyte, graminoid, or low shrub communities. Tree poor. Shrubs when present typically ericaceous. Herb poor. Ground surface mostly Sphagnum mosses and deciduous litter. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Typically graminoid, however may be shrub or bryophyte dominated system. Tree cover 10%, and tall shrub cover 25%. Fen indicators present, species poor. Tree species if present include stunted black spruce and tamarack. Shrubs species commonly found include sweet gale, leatherleaf, speckled alder, and narrow-leaved meadow-sweet. Herbaceous species include slender sedge, few-seeded sedge, lake-bank sedge, pitcher-plant and beaked sedge. Bryophyte species include midway peat moss, common green peat moss, and poor-fen peat moss. G139S - open peatlands with > 10% cover of shrubs. Forb cover is sparse, graminoids are abundant. Stunted black spruce and tamarack often present. G139N - open peatlands with 10% shrubs. Typically dominated by graminoids, forb cover is sparse. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina Myrica gale, Chamaedaphne calyculata, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Spiraea alba var. alba, Betula pumila var. pumila, Andromeda polifolia var. glaucophylla, Salix pedicellaris, Vaccinium oxycoccos Carex lasiocarpa ssp. americana, C. oligosperma, C. lacustris, Sarracenia purpurea, C. rostrata, C. utriculata, Dulichium arundinaceum var. arundinaceum, Eriophorum virginicum Sphagnum magellanicum, S. girgensohnii, S. angustifolium

285 G139S/N Poor Fen Ecology Substrate has low nutrient and excess moisture, limiting plant growth. Weakly minerotrophic peatlands, subjected to occasional flooding or low ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Diversity of vascular plants is low and is predominantly hydrophytic. Vegetation is characterized by Sphagnum mosses, graminoids, and woody vegetation adapted to nutrientpoor site conditions. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site, but may play a role in maintaining the ecosite by killing encroaching trees and promoting graminoid dominance. In the northwest (4S, 4W, 5S) fire may remove the top portion of the organic matter in drought years when the fen has dried down, often resulting in a fen with stunted jack pine. Stable unless moisture levels change, for example flooding through beaver activity may convert the poor fen into a meadow marsh or shallow march, or a decrease in the water table may convert the fen into a conifer swamp or shrub thicket. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Confined to kettle depressions and in flat areas or mild depressions. Generally level to undulating organic, morainal, glaciolacustrine, and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Billing's Three-seeded Sedge may occur along the southern edge of 5E. Fire origin fen may occur in 4W-1, 4W-2, 4S-3, 4S-4, 4S-5, 4S-6, and 5S-2. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes and in depressions. The ecosite often forms a mosaic of shrub and herb dominated areas often grading into bog, other fen, or poor conifer swamp. Typically level microtopography. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low ericaceous shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, and wetter hollows dominated by graminoids. Related Ecosites 146, 147 Floating mat 138 Hydrologically isolated; absence of fen indicators Two or more rich fen indicators 136 Tree cover > 10%

286 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Moderately Rich Fen G140S/N Ecosite Description Graminoid or low shrub communities. Tree poor. Shrubs when present typically ericaceous. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly sedge and deciduous litter, and Sphagnum mosses. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub or graminoid dominated system. Tree cover 10%, and tall shrub cover 25%. Rich fen indicators present. Tree species if present include stunted black spruce and tamarack. Shrubs species commonly found include leatherleaf, sweet gale, speckled alder, and dwarf birch. Herbaceous species include few-seeded sedge, bog aster, and slender sedge. Bryophyte species include small red peat moss, midway peat moss, and Schreber's moss. G140S - open peatlands with > 10% cover of shrubs. Forb cover is variable, graminoids are abundant. Stunted black spruce and tamarack often present. G140N - open peatlands with 10% shrubs. Typically dominated by graminoids, forb cover is variable. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina Chamaedaphne calyculata, Myrica gale, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Betula pumila var. pumila, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Andromeda polifolia, Kalmia polifolia, Rhamnus alnifolia Carex oligosperma, C. lasiocarpa ssp. americana, Menyanthes trifoliata, Equisetum fluviatile, Eriophorum angustifolium ssp. angustifolium, Trichophorum alpinum, Solidago uliginosa, Rhynchospora alba, Carex magellanica ssp. irrigua, Solidago uliginosa, Utricularia intermedia, Pogonia ophioglossoides Sphagnum capillifolium, S. magellanicum, Pleurozium schreberi, Aulacomnium palustre, Sphagnum angustifolium

287 G140S/N Open Moderately Rich Fen Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient availability. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Diversity of vascular plants is moderate and predominantly hydrophytic. Vegetation is characterized by Sphagnum mosses, graminoids, and woody vegetation adapted to nutrient-rich site conditions. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change, for example flooding through beaver activity may convert the moderately rich fen into a meadow marsh or shallow marsh, or a decrease in the water table may convert the fen into a conifer swamp or shrub thicket. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Confined to ground-water fed depressions, gradual seepage slopes, or protected riparian areas associated with lakes, rivers, and ponds. Generally level to undulating organic, morainal, glaciolacustrine, and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins, likely in a complex with bog, other fen, or marsh ecosites. Microtopography variable ranging from uniformly level to mound and hollows. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, and wetter hollows dominated by graminoids. Related Ecosites 146, 147 Floating mat 139 Fen indicators present Two or more extremely rich fen indicators 136 Tree cover > 10%

288 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Extremely Rich Fen G141S/N Ecosite Description Graminoid or low shrub communities. Tree poor. Shrubs when present typically ericaceous. Herb moderately rich. Ground surface mostly sedge and deciduous litter, and brown mosses. Substrate organic or mineral. Mostly deep and very moist to wet (MR = 6, 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 O2 O4 O5 O6 CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Shrub or graminoid dominated system. Tree cover 10%, and tall shrub cover 25%. Extremely rich fen indicators present. Tree species if present include stunted black spruce, cedar, and tamarack. String and flark vegetation may differ in species composition and structure. Shrubs species commonly found include shrubby cinquefoil, mountain fly honeysuckle, and sage-leaved willow. Herbaceous species include wild timothy, sticky false asphodel, marsh grass-of-parnassus, and tall white bog orchid. Bryophyte species includes Star-like Hypnum moss, fuzzy brown moss, and Limprichtia moss. G141S - open peatlands with > 10% cover of shrubs. Forb cover is variable, graminoids are abundant. Stunted black spruce and tamarack often present. G141N - open peatlands with 10% shrubs. Typically dominated by graminoids, forb cover is variable. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Larix laricina, Picea mariana Dasiphora fruticosa, Lonicera villosa, Salix candida Carex lasiocarpa ssp. americana, Triantha glutinosa, Parnassia palustris, Platanthera dilatata var. dilatata, C. limosa, C. livida, C. chordorrhiza, C. sterilis, Trichophorum cespitosum, Drosera linearis, Carex gynocrates Campylium stellatum var. stellatum, Tomentypnum nitens, Limprichtia revolvens, Sphagnum warnstorfii, Aulacomnium spp.

289 G141S/N Open Extremely Rich Fen Ecology Substrate has high nutrient availability. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Minerotrophic peatland, subjected to periodic flooding or ground water movement enriching the site with mineral and organic material. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Diversity of vascular plants is high and predominantly hydrophytic. Vegetation is characterized by brown mosses, graminoids, and woody vegetation adapted to nutrient-rich site conditions. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Stable unless moisture levels change, for example flooding through beaver activity may convert the extremely rich fen into a meadow marsh or shallow marsh, or a decrease in the water table may convert the fen into a conifer swamp or shrub thicket. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Confined to ground-water fed depressions, gradual seepage slopes, or protected riparian areas associated with lakes, rivers, and ponds. Generally level to undulating organic, morainal, glaciolacustrine, and glaciofluvial deposits. Typically noncalcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral, peaty phase, or deep organic substrates likely. Generally on lower slopes, in depressions, or adjacent to flowing water or lake margins. The ecosite often forms a mosaic of shrub and herb dominated areas, likely in a complex with bog, other fen, meadow, or marsh ecosites. Patterning or alternating raised ridges (strings) and depressions or hollows (flarks) form perpendicular to the direction of waterflow. The ridges are dominated by sedges, shrubs and scattered, stunted trees and depressions (flarks) are represented by saturated to inundated open areas of brown mosses, sedges, and rushes. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low ericaceous shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, and wetter hollows dominated by graminoids. Related Ecosites 146, 147 Floating mat 140 Two or more rich fen indicators Seasonally flooded; Tree/shrub cover 10% 136 Tree cover > 10%

290 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Meadow Marsh G142N Ecosite Description Graminoid or less frequently forb communities. Dominated by sedges and grasses. Ground surface mostly sedge litter. Substrate mineral. Mostly deep and very moist (MR=6) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO VS1 VS2 S1 S2 M8 M9 M10 M11 MD12 MD13 MD14 MD15 D12 D13 D14 D15 MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Graminoid or forb dominated system. Herbaceous cover > 50% and anchored to the surface. Trees if present may include black spruce, tamarack, and red maple but does not exceed 10% cover. Tall shrub cover 25%. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Shrub species include pussy willow and red-osier dogwood. Herbaceous species include lake-bank sedge, tussock sedge, Canada blue-joint grass, and reed canary grass. Trace occurrence of non-vascular cover restricted to the edges of tussocks. CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Picea mariana, Larix laricina, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Ulmus americana Salix discolor, Cornus stolonifera, Spiraea alba var. alba, Alnus viridis ssp. crispa Carex lacustris, C. stricta, Calamagrostis canadensis, Phalaris arundinacea, Impatiens capensis, Agrostis gigantea, Scirpus cyperinus, Polygonum spp., Juncus nodosus, Juncus alpinoarticulatus, Carex viridula var. viridula

291 G142N Mineral Meadow Marsh Ecology Substrate has variable nutrient availability due to substrate texture and mineralogy. Secondary enrichment of site may occur if in contact with lake or stream water. Rooting zone in contact with minerotrophic groundwater. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Subjected to seasonal water fluctuations through seasonal flooding and near shore wave action. Vascular plant cover and diversity variable, predominantly hydrophytic. Trees when present scattered and stunted. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site, but can help maintain the ecosite through the reduction of woody species. Stable unless moisture levels change. The ecosite may convert to a shrub thicket when water levels decrease. Open conditions maintained by seasonal flooding and beaver activity. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range occurring in wetland basins, along streams and drainage ways, in drained beaver ponds, in shallow bays. Generally morainal, glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial deposits. Atlantic coast plain species may occur along the shores of lakes in Parry Sound and Muskoka. These species may include Virginia meadowbeauty, Eaton s panic grass, Carolina yellow-eyed-grass, Carey s knotweed, bayonet rush, and golden hedge-hyssops. Typically non-calcareous, where calcareous increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Mineral or peaty phase substrates likely. Generally on lower or level slopes adjacent to small streams, lakeshores, beaver meadows, ditches and occasionally in isolated basins. The ecosite often forms a mosaic of shrub and herb dominated areas, some open pools of water may be present. May be adjacent to a marsh or thicket. Microtopography variable ranging from uniformly level to mounds and hollows. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low ericaceous shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, wetter hollows dominated by graminoids, and open pools of water dominated by floatingleaved or emergent vegetation. Related Ecosites 145, 149 Increased water 144 Organic substrate Rock substrate 134 Tall shrub cover > 25%

292 Profile/Slope Sequence Rock Meadow Marsh G143N Ecosite Description Graminoid or less frequently forb communities. Vascular plants restricted to cracks in bedrock or spaces between coarse fragments where mineral or organic material has accumulated. Dominated by sedges and grasses. Ground surface mostly sedge litter. Substrate rock (bedrock or coarse fragments). Moisture regime saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO R1 R2 R3 R5 R6 R8 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Graminoid or forb dominated system. Herbaceous cover > 50% and anchored to the surface. Trees if present may include black spruce, tamarack, and red maple but does not exceed 10% cover. Tall shrub cover 25%. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Shrub species may include sweet gale and narrow-leaved meadowsweet. Herbaceous species may include Dudley's rush and tufted hairgrass. Trace occurrence of non-vascular cover restricted to the edges of tussocks. Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Picea mariana, Larix laricina, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis Myrica gale, Spiraea alba var. alba, Ilex verticillata, Salix discolor, Physocarpus opulifolius Deschampsia cespitosa ssp. cespitosa, Carex viridula ssp. viridula, C. cryptolepis, C. echinata, C. scoparia, Eupatorium spp., Symphyotrichum spp., Agrostis scabra, Juncus spp., Eleocharis spp., Euthamia graminifolia, Potentilla norvegica ssp. norvegica, Lycopus uniflorus, Hypericum spp., Viola lanceolata

293 G143N Rock Meadow Marsh Ecology Ecosite is usually adjacent to a lake or stream. Limited accumulation of organic and mineral material occur due to flooding and ice-scouring. More active ecosite than Mineral Meadow Marsh (G142) and Organic Meadow Marsh (G144). Enrichment of substrate through seepage or periodic flooding. Vegetation is predominately hydrophytic, restricted to cracks in bedrock or spaces between coarse fragments where mineral or organic material has accumulated, for example cobble shorelines. Trees if present scattered and stunted. Subjected to drawdowns. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Ecoregional Variability Limited across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range occurring next to water bodies, rivers and streams with bedrock or cobble shores. Atlantic coast plain species may occur along the shores of lake in Parry Sound and Muskoka. These species may include Virginia meadowbeauty, Eaton s panic grass, Carolina yellow-eyed-grass, Carey s knotweed, bayonet rush, and golden hedge-hyssops. Inland rush found in 4W, 4S, and 5S. Edaphic Variability Hydric. This ecosite is usually found in terrestrial shallow soil over bedrock landscapes, at the land-water interface. Rock or colluvial deposits. Typically non-calcareous, although local areas of base-rich bedrock (greenstones) may occur, especially in parts of northwestern Ontario. Plants often rooted in cracks filled with sand or mud. May occur in a matrix of rock and stones (boulder, cobble, gravel), open pools may be present containing floating-leaved or emergent vegetation. Related Ecosites 145, 149 Increased water 144 Organic substrate Mineral substrate 134 Tall shrub cover > 25%

294 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Meadow Marsh G144N Ecosite Description Graminoid or less frequently forb communities. Dominated by sedges and grasses. Ground surface mostly sedge litter. Substrate organic. Mostly deep and wet (MR = 7, 8, or 9) or saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Graminoid or forb dominated system. Herbaceous cover > 50% and anchored to the surface. Trees if present may include black spruce, tamarack, and red maple but does not exceed 10% cover. Tall shrub cover 25%. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Shrub species may include leatherleaf and sweet gale. Herbaceous species may include Canada blue-joint grass, swamp loosestrife, and wool-grass. Non-vascular cover when present restricted to the edges of tussocks. CX AN Trees Shrubs Picea mariana, Larix laricina, Acer rubrum, Betula papyrifera Chamaedaphne calyculata, Myrica gale, Spiraea alba var. alba Vascular Herbaceous Calamagrostis canadensis, Carex utriculata, Lysimachia terrestris, Scirpus cyperinus, Carex stricta, C. rostrata, Typha spp., Glyceria canadensis var. canadensis, Thelypteris palustris var. pubescens, Asclepias incarnata ssp. incarnata

295 G144N Organic Meadow Marsh Ecology Substrate has high nutrient availability, strongly influenced by nutrient rich groundwater enriching the site. Secondary enrichment may occur when the ecosite is adjacent to a lake or stream. Water levels typically at or near the substrate surface throughout the year. Seasonal flooding and drawdowns when they occur are less frequent and severe than Mineral Meadow Marsh (G142) and Rock Meadow Marsh (G143). Characteristic vegetation species are predominantly hydrophytic. Subjected to periodic flooding and to drawdowns. Vascular plant abundance is high, although not usually diverse. May contain standing dead trees. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site, but can help maintain the ecosite through the reduction of woody species. In drought years when the water level is low fire may have an impact. Stable unless moisture levels change. The ecosite may convert to a shrub thicket when water levels decrease. Open conditions maintained by seasonal flooding. Often develops in former beaver ponds after dam burst and are not rebuilt. Cattails dominated marsh may develop on logged or disturbed conifer swamps. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range occurring on lake, pond and stream margins, in beaver ponds or in shallow bays often adjacent to other wetland communities. Generally undulating to level organic deposits. When underlying bedrock or substrate mineralogy is calcareous and the depth of the organic layer is not very deep, increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Buttonbush and Virginia chain fern may be present along the southern edge of 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Organic substrates. Generally on lower or level slopes adjacent to small streams, lakeshores, beaver meadows, ditches and occasionally in isolated basins. The ecosite often forms a mosaic of shrub and herb dominated areas, some open pools of water may be present. May be adjacent to a marsh or thicket. Microtopography variable ranging from uniformly level to mounds and hollows. Changes in peat elevation within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low ericaceous shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, wetter hollows dominated by graminoids, and open pools dominated by floating-leaved and emergent vegetation. Related Ecosites 145, 149 Increased water 139, 140, 141 Fen indicators present , 143 Mineral or rock substrate 135 Tall shrub cover > 25%

296 Profile/Slope Sequence Floating Marsh G145S/N Ecosite Description Forb dominated community on a floating mat of organic debris composed primarily of dead cattail stalks and roots adjacent to lakes or streams. Often composed of dense stands of cattails, associated forb species highly variable. Graminoid cover variable. Shrubs when present are tolerant of wet conditions (e.g., willows). Trees absent. Ground surface mostly cattail litter. Substrate organic and floating. Moisture regime very wet (MR = 9). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Forb dominated system, primarily cattails. Shrub cover 25% and floating mat not composed of sphagnum or sedge. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Shrub species commonly found, when present include willows. Herbaceous species include cattails, marsh cinquefoil, lake-bank sedge, and tussock sedge. Floatingleaved and submergent aquatic plants may be present but cover is sparse. O7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Shrubs Salix spp., Myrica gale Vascular Herbaceous Floatingleaved Typha spp., Comarum palustre, Carex lacustris, C. stricta, Asclepias incarnata ssp. incarnata, Lysimachia terrestris, Cicuta bulbifera, Campanula aparinoides Lemna spp., Spirodela polyrhiza, Utricularia vulgaris Submergent Potamogeton natans, P. gramineus

297 G145S/N Floating Marsh Ecology Substrate has high nutrient availability. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Subjected to seasonal flooding and to drawdowns. Substrate is a floating mat of peat held together by roots, suspended over water or loose sedimentary peat. Enrichment of site by contact with lake or stream water. Vascular plant abundance is high, although not usually diverse. Vegetation is predominantly characterized by hydrophytic herbaceous and woody vegetation adapted to wet nutrient-rich site conditions. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Successionally stable but may be fragmented by strong winds or beaver activity. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Generally found in sheltered shoreline areas along the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams. Swamp loosestrife may be found along the southern edge of 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Substrate is a floating mat of organic origin. The floating mat will rise and fall with changes in water level. Generally on lower or level slopes along shorelines in lakes, ponds, and river backwaters. The ecosite may also contain areas of open water that support floating-leaved and submergent aquatic cover such as duckweed and bladderwort. Related Ecosites 150, 152 Emergent cover 25% 149 Organic substrate Mineral substrate 146 Shore fen; floating mat of sphagnum or sedge origin

298 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Shore Fen G146S/N Ecosite Description Graminoid, generally sedge or low shrub community on floating mats adjacent to ponds, lakes, and streams. Trees poor. Herb moderately poor. Ground surface mostly sedge and deciduous litter, and Sphagnum mosses. Substrate organic and floating. Moisture regime very wet (MR = 9). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic CX AN Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry R VS S M MD D k n z Vegetation Description Graminoid, generally sedge or low shrub community on floating mat of peat, usually of sedge origin. Shrub cover 25%. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Shrub species may include leatherleaf and sweet gale. Herbaceous species include wooly sedge, beaked sedge, reed-like three-way sedge, and cotton-grasses. Bryophytes dominated by Sphagnum species. Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Chamaedaphne calyculata, Myrica gale, Salix pedicellaris Carex lasiocarpa ssp. americana, C. rostrata, Dulichium arundinaceum var. arundinaceum, Eriophorum spp., Carex lacustris, Muhlenbergia glomerata, Comarum palustre Sphagnum spp.

299 G146S/N Open Shore Fen Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient availability. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Water level changes minimal. Subject to low wave and current action (e.g., in sheltered bays), narrow band or patch in a wetland complex. Substrate is a floating mat of peat held together by roots, suspended over water or loose sedimentary peat. Enrichment of site by contact with lake or stream water. Vascular plant cover is high, although not usually diverse. Vegetation is predominantly hydrophytic. Successionally stable but may be fragmented by strong winds or beaver activity. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Generally found in protected or slow moving riparian areas along the edges of peatland associated with ponds, lakes, and streams; peatland basins affected by surface runoff; and lagg zones at the edges of peatlands. Often associated with meadow marshes. Generally level to undulating organic deposits. When underlying bedrock or substrate mineralogy is calcareous and the depth of the organic layer is not very deep, increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Substrate is a floating mat of organic origin. The floating mat will rise and fall with changes in water level. Generally on lower or level slopes along shorelines in lakes, ponds, and river backwaters. The ecosite may also contain areas of open water that support floating-leaved and submergent aquatic cover such as duckweed and bladderwort. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, and wetter hollows dominated by graminoids. Related Ecosites 145 Floating mat not of sedge or sphagnum origin 138 Hydrologically isolated Vegetation anchored to substrate 147 Tall shrub cover > 25% 139, 140, 141 Not floating mat; adjacent to water body

300 Profile/Slope Sequence Shrub Shore Fen G147S Ecosite Description Low shrub community on floating mats adjacent to ponds, lakes, and streams. Tree poor. Ground surface mostly leaf and sedge litter. Substrate organic and floating. Moisture regime very wet (MR = 9). Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Depth Chemistry RO Vegetation Description CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Humus Form Mull Moder Fibrimor Humimor Peatymor Anmoor R VS S M MD D Low shrub community on floating mat of sphagnum or sedge origin. Shrub cover > 25%. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Tree species if present include stunted tamarack and black spruce. Shrub species include leatherleaf, sweet gale, dwarf birch, and speckled alder. Herbaceous species may include Canada blue-joint grass, beaked sedge, marsh cinquefoil, wire sedge, and tussock sedge. Bryophytes dominated by Sphagnum species. O7 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA k n z CX AN Trees Shrubs Vascular Herbaceous Non-vascular Picea mariana, Larix laricina Chamaedaphne calyculata, Myrica gale, Betula pumila, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, Salix pedicellaris Calamagrostis canadensis var. canadensis, Carex utriculata, Comarum palustre, Carex lasiocarpa ssp. americana, C. stricta, Muhlenbergia glomerata, Carex aquatilis var. aquatilis Sphagnum spp.

301 G147S Shrub Shore Fen Ecology Substrate has moderate nutrient availability. Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. Water level changes minimal. Subject to low wave and current action (e.g., in sheltered bays), Found as a narrow band or patch in a wetland complex. Substrate is a floating mat of peat held together by roots, suspended over water or loose sedimentary peat. Enrichment of site by contact with lake or stream water. Vascular plant cover is high, although not usually diverse. Vegetation is predominantly hydrophytic. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Successionally stable but may be fragmented by strong winds or beaver activity. Stable unless moisture levels change. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range developing where permanently saturated substrate conditions occur. Generally found in protected or slow moving riparian areas along the edges of peatland associated with ponds, lakes, and streams; peatland basins affected by surface runoff; and lagg zones at the edges of peatlands. Generally level to undulating organic. When underlying bedrock or substrate mineralogy is calcareous and the depth of the organic layer is not very deep, increased plant diversity and vigour may occur. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Nutrient and moisture availability uniform. Substrate is a floating mat of organic origin. The floating mat will rise and fall with changes in water level. Generally on lower or level slopes along shorelines in lakes, ponds, and river backwaters. The ecosite may also contain areas of open water that support floating-leaved and submergent aquatic cover such as duckweed and bladderwort. Changes in microtopography within the site result in better drained conditions supporting localized communities of low shrubs and scattered black spruce and tamarack, and wetter hollows dominated by graminoids. Related Ecosites 145 Floating mat not of sedge or sphagnum origin 138 Hydrologically isolated Vegetation anchored to substrate 146 Shrub cover 25% 139, 140, 141 Not floating mat; adjacent to water body

302 Profile/Slope Sequence Mineral Shallow Marsh G148N Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community typically composed of emergent grasses, rushes, sedges, forbs (occasionally), or horsetails. Floating-leaved herbaceous species may also be present. Water normally above the substrate surface (less than 2 m deep). Substrate mineral. Mostly deep and saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community with > 25% emergent vegetation. Submergent and floating-leaved vegetation variable. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Emergent species may include cattails, woolgrass, and arrowheads. Floating-leaved species may include duckweed and fragrant white water lily. Submergent species may include coontail and common waterweed. L4 L5 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Herbs and Graminoids Floatingleaved Submergent Typha spp., Scirpus cyperinus, Sagittaria spp., Eleocharis palustris, Sparganium eurycarpum, Pontederia cordata, Schoenoplectus spp., Equisetum fluviatile, Carex aquatilis, C. vesicaria, C. utriculata, Dulichium arundinaceum Lemna spp., Nymphaea odorata ssp. tuberosa, Potamogeton spp., Nuphar variegata, Eriocaulon aquaticum Ceratophyllum demersum, Elodea canadensis, Potamogeton spp., Stuckenia pectinatus, Myriophyllum sibiricum

303 G148N Mineral Shallow Marsh Ecology Nutrient levels typically high due to abundant waterflow, and periodic exposure and aeration of the substrate. Dominant plants are tolerant of persistently deep water levels. Variation in species composition over time is in response to changes in hydrological conditions. May contain standing dead trees. In communities with a stable water level species diversity decreases and the area is often dominated by a single species. Ecosite is exposed regularly to wave action, river currents, ice-scouring, or drawdowns preventing the accumulation of organic material. Mineral shallow marshes are early-seral ecosites forming naturally in recently created wetland environments. This ecosite will persist as long as the hydrological regime is maintained. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in wave-washed lakeshores, stream floodplains, and back-levees. May also occur at seepage sites. Atlantic coast plain species may occur along the shores of lake in Parry Sound and Muskoka. These species may include Virginia meadow-beauty, Carolina yellow-eyed-grass, tow-cupped pondweed, conifervoid pondweed, bayonet rush, hidden-fruited bladderwort, and floating-heart. Heart-leaved pickerel-weed may occur in 4E and 5E and Purple bladderwort may occur along the southern edge of 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often found as a part of a wetland complex adjacent to open water marshes and meadow marshes. Sandy or fine textured mineral substrate. Water depth variable. Submergent and floating-leaved vegetation more prevalent in deeper water. Related Ecosites 151 Emergent cover 25% 145, 149 Organic substrate 148 N/A 142, 143 Seasonally flooded 146, 147 Shore fen; floating mat of sphagnum or sedge origin

304 Profile/Slope Sequence Organic Shallow Marsh G149N Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community typically composed of emergent grasses, rushes, sedges, forbs (occasionally), or horsetails. Floating-leaved herbaceous species may also be present. Water normally above the substrate surface (less than 2 m deep). Substrate organic. Mostly deep and saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO O2 O4 O5 O6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community with > 25% emergent vegetation. Submergent and floating-leaved vegetation variable. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Herbaceous species may include cattails, woolgrass, and arrowheads. Emergent species may include cattails, woolgrass, and arrowheads. Submergent and floatingleaved species may include duckweeds, fragrant white water lily, and coontail. CX AN Herbs and Graminoids Floatingleaved Submergent Typha spp., Scirpus cyperinus., Sagittaria spp., Eleocharis palustris, Sparganium eurycarpum, Pontederia cordata, Schoenoplectus spp., Glyceria canadensis, G. striata, Carex lacustris, C. utriculata, Lysimachia terrestris, Zizania palustris Lemna spp., Nymphaea odorata ssp. tuberosa, Potamogeton natans, Brasenia schreberi, Persicaria amphibia var. emersa Ceratophyllum demersum, Elodea canadensis, Potamogeton spp., Myriophyllum spp., Alisma plantago-aquatica

305 G149N Organic Shallow Marsh Ecology Nutrient levels typically high due to abundant waterflow, and periodic exposure and aeration of the substrate. Dominant plants are tolerant of persistently deep water levels. May contain dead standing trees. Variation in species composition over time is in response to changes in hydrological conditions. In communities with a stable water level species diversity decreases and the area is often dominated by a single species. Frequency and intensity of flooding, wave action, river currents, ice-scouring, or drawdowns limited allowing for the accumulation of organic material. Water levels more stable than Mineral Shallow Marsh (G148). Organic shallow marshes are early-seral ecosites forming naturally in recently created wetland environments. This ecosite will persist as long as the hydrological regime is maintained. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in sheltered lakeshores, stream floodplains, slow moving streams, and back-levees. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Typically uniform in nutrient and moisture availability. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often found as a part of a wetland complex adjacent to open water marshes and meadow marshes. Organic substrate. Water depth variable. Submergent and floating-leaved vegetation more prevalent in deeper water. Related Ecosites 150, 152 Emergent cover 25% 145 Floating organic substrate Mineral substrate 144 Seasonally flooded 146, 147 Shore fen; floating mat of sphagnum or sedge origin

306 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Water Marsh: Floating-Leaved G150N Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community typically composed of floating-leaved aquatic vegetation. Submergent and emergent species may also be present. Water normally above the substrate surface (less than 2 m deep). Substrate typically mineral or organic and deep but may be rock. Moisture regime is saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Herbaceous dominated community with > 50% floating-leaved material and 25% emergent vegetation. The area is dominated by floating-leaved and submergent aquatic plants species. The ecosite may represent a simple community dominated by one to several species. Emergent species may include floating-leaved burreed, softstem bulrush, and hybrid bulrush. Floating-leaved species may include white water-lily, floating-leaved pondweed, yellow pondlily, and water-shield. Submergent species may include bladderwort, coontail, and pondweeds. CX AN Emergent Floatingleaved Submergent Sparganium fluctuans, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, S. carinatus Nymphaea odorata ssp. tuberosa, Potamogeton natans, Nuphar variegata, Brasenia schreberi, Lemna spp. Utricularia spp., Ceratophyllum demersum, Potamogeton spp., Ranunculus aquatilis var. diffusus, Vallisneria americana, Elodea canadensis, Bidens beckii

307 G150N Open Water Marsh: Floating-leaved Ecology Dominant plants are tolerant of persistently deep water levels. Water table above the surface for most of the growing season, rarely drawdowns. Ecosite may be subjected to low wave and current energy. Increased water turbidity and/or increased water depth negatively affect the distribution of aquatic species by decreasing the light levels. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in sheltered bays, and still and slowmoving water associated with ponds, river meanders, oxbows, and lagg zones at the edge of peatlands. Floating-hearts may occur in the Parry Sound and Muskoka regions. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often found as a part of a wetland complex with shallow marshes and open water. Emergent vegetation more prevalent in shallower water. Related Ecosites 154, 155, 156 Active limnetic 152 Organic substrate Mineral substrate 153 Constructed water collection 145 Floating marsh mat 149 Emergent cover > 25%

308 Profile/Slope Sequence Open Water Marsh: Mineral G151N Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community typically composed of submergent aquatic vegetation. Emergent and floating-leaved species may also be present. Water normally above the substrate surface (less than 2 m deep). Substrate typically mineral and deep. Moisture regime is saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Herbaceous dominated community with 25 % emergent vegetation and 50% floatingleaved vegetation. The area is dominated by submergent aquatic plant species. The ecosite may represent a simple community dominated by one to several species. Emergent species may include marsh spikerush, floating-leaved burreed, and softstem bulrush. Floating-leaved species may include yellow-pond lily and pondweeds. Submergent species may include pondweeds, common bladderwort, and spiked water-milfoil. L4 L5 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Emergent Floatingleaved Submergent Eleocharis palustris, Sparganium fluctuans, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, S. carinatus Nuphar variegata, Potamogeton spp. Potamogeton spp., Utricularia vulgaris., Myriophyllum sibiricum, Ceratophyllum demersum, Lobelia dortmanna

309 G151N Open Water Marsh: Mineral Ecology Dominant plants are tolerant of persistently deep water levels. Plant species distribution is affected by water chemistry (acidic to basic gradient), substrate quality, turbidity (amount of light available), and waterflow. Water table above the surface for most of the growing season. Drawdowns are rare. Ecosites often exposed to high wave energy. Low species diversity common. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range typically on wave-washed lakeshores and streams. Slender water-milfoil found in 5E. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often transitional to deep, unvegetated waters of lakes. Typically occurring on nutrient poor (oligotrophic) acidic mineral substrates. Related Ecosites 155 Active mineral limnetic 150, 152 Organic substrate Constructed water collection 148 Emergent cover > 25%

310 Open Water Marsh: Organic G152N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Herbaceous vegetation community typically composed of submergent aquatic vegetation. Emergent and floating-leaved species may also be present. Water normally above the substrate surface (less than 2 m deep). Substrate typically organic and deep. Moisture regime is saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO Vegetation Description CO MO L2 L3 L6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Herbaceous dominated community with 25% emergent vegetation and 50% floatingleaved vegetation. The area is dominated by submergent aquatic plant species. The ecosite may represent a simple community dominated by one to several species. Emergent species may include softstem bulrush and hybrid bulrush. Floating-leaved species may include yellow pond-lily and pondweeds. Submergent species may include pondweeds, common bladderwort, and common coontail. CX AN Emergent Floatingleaved Submergent Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, S. carinatus, Dulichium arundinaceum var. arundinaceum Nuphar variegata, Potamogeton spp., Lemma spp., Brasenia schreberi Potamogeton spp., Utricularia vulgaris, Ceratophyllum demersum, Myriophyllum sibiricum, Elodea canadensis

311 G152N Open Water Marsh: Organic Ecology Dominant plants are tolerant of persistently deep water levels. Plant species distribution is affected by water chemistry (acidic to basic gradient), substrate quality, turbidity (amount of light available), and waterflow. Water table above the surface for most of the growing season, Draw downs are rare. Ecosites not highly disturbed by wave or current action. Typically few plant species. Higher submergent cover than Open Water Marsh: Mineral (G151). Ecoregional Variability Widespread across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range in sheltered bays, and still and slowmoving water associated with ponds, river meanders, oxbows, and lagg zones at the edge of peatlands. One of the most common wetland conditions in oligotrophic lakes on bedrockdominated terrain. Robbins spike-rush and heart-leaved pickerel-weed may occur east of Lake Superior Edaphic Variability Hydric. Generally on lower or level slopes, or in depressions. Often transitional to deep, unvegetated waters of lakes. Low nutrient levels in oligotrophic lakes generally underlain by bedrock or coarse fragments typically support a sparsely-vegetated open water marsh. Related Ecosites 154, 155, 156 Active limnetic 150 Floating-leaved cover > 50% Mineral substrate 153 Constructed water collection 145 Floating marsh mat 149 Emergent cover > 25%

312 Constructed Water Collections G153X/N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Human constructed water catchment areas with engineered permanent impermeable or permeable materials adjacent to built environments. These areas often have straight constructed boundaries (e.g., walls, dams, weirs, culverts) with uniform slopes and a rapid transition to adjacent terrestrial environments. May have inflow or outflow structures. Water normally above the substrate surface with a depth that does not exceed 2 m. May be unvegetated or contain not woody communities typically consisting of submergent, emergent, and/or floating-leaved vegetation. Substrate texture variable, may consist of natural (e.g., mineral material, gravel) or constructed (e.g., concrete dam). Moisture regime is saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Unvegetated or vegetated aquatic plant communities. When present the area is dominated by native, opportunistic aquatic plant species that are tolerant of fluctuating water conditions and chemistry. Invasive species often present due to degree of disturbance and importation of materials during construction. May also contain naturalized landscape species. Ecosite may be dominated by one specie or have a variable composition. Floating-leaved and submergent plants variable occurring only if water level deep and persistent. CX AN Shrubs Emergent Salix spp., Cornus spp., Alnus spp. Typha spp., Phragmites australis ssp. americanus, Carex spp., Juncus spp., Phalaris arundinacea, Phalaris spp., Lythrum salicaria

313 G153N Constructed Water Collections Ecology Limitation to plant growth due to excess moisture. May have highly variable water regimes with storm and seasonal flooding and drawdowns. Enrichment of site by sewage inputs or runoff that may contain salt, toxics, or pathogens depending on purpose of construction and water sources. Vascular plant abundance may be high but not usually diverse. Vegetation is predominantly hydrophytic. Salt enrichment may encourage the establishment of halophytic species. Fire does not have a large impact due to the wetness of the site. Successionally stable. Ecoregional Variability Widespread across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence range. May include irrigation channels/ ditches for agricultural purposes, sewage treatment ponds, storm water collection ponds, irrigation ponds and constructed wetlands. Typically in urban/suburban areas used for water control and pollution remediation or in rural areas for livestock or field irrigation. Edaphic Variability Hydric. Materials highly variable and dependent on construction. May include transported fills, concrete, stone, as well as local materials. Often older constructed water collection areas may become vegetated unless species are removed or water movement is sufficient to limited plant rooting and growth. Related Ecosites 154, 155, 156 Active limnetic 150 Floating-leaved cover > 50% Mineral substrate 148 Emergent cover > 25%

314 Active Limnetic Rock G154N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Submerged consolidated or unconsolidated rock material communities in high energy limnetic zones. Water normally above the substrate surface with a depth that does not exceed 2 m. Vascular vegetation cover does not exceed 25% due to shoreline processes such as waves, currents, periodic flooding, ice scour, and high winds. Substrate texture variable, typically consisting of solid bedrock, gravel, cobbles, and/or stones. Mostly deep and saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO L1 L2 L3 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Vegetation cover is very limited and varies seasonally. Conditions favour aquatic plants that are resistant to wave energy. Plants are restricted to cracks in the bedrock or to the spaces between coarse fragments where mineral and organic material accumulate. Common species include pipewort, water lobelia, and spiny-spored quillwort. CX AN Emergent Eriocaulon aquaticum, Lobelia dortmanna Submergent Isoetes echinospora

315 G154N Active Limnetic Rock Ecology Little or no substrate development occurs in this ecosite. Dominant plants are tolerant of high energy or are able to colonize an area quickly. Plants are restricted to cracks in the bedrock or to the spaces between coarse fragments where mineral and organic material accumulate. Ecosite is maintained by high energy in the form of waves, currents, periodic flooding, ice scour, and high winds. Variability in aquatic species increases with a decrease in energy. These sites are usually permanently flooded; rarely they may become exposed during extreme drought years. If water levels decrease the ecosite may become an active bedrock shoreline (G160). Ecoregional Variability Widespread but uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with the high energy shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. Edaphic Variability Nutrient availability limited due to activity and limited substrates. Shoreline communities produce characteristic zonal patterns due to the amount and frequency of wave, currents, periodic flooding, ice, and wind influences. This ecosite is found just below the exposed shoreline. Related Ecosites N/A N/A Mineral substrate 151 Vascular vegetation cover > 2% 153 Constructed water collection

316 Active Limnetic Mineral G155N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Submerged mineral material communities associated with the shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. These communities occur in high energy limnetic zones where the water is normally above the substrate surface but does not exceed 2 m. Vascular vegetation cover 25%. Shoreline processes such as waves, currents, periodic flooding, ice scour, and high winds are common. Substrate texture variable, typically consisting of wave-washed sands. Mostly deep and saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO CO MO L1 L4 L5 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description Vegetation cover is very limited and varies seasonally. Vegetation species highly variable consisting of species that are adapted to disturbance by flooding, ice-scouring, and strong currents and waves. Common species include pipewort, water lobelia, and spiny-spored quillwort. CX AN Emergent Eriocaulon aquaticum, Lobelia dortmanna Submergent Isoetes echinospora

317 G155N Active Limnetic Mineral Ecology Dominant plants are tolerant of high energy or are able to colonize an area quickly. Ecosite is maintained by high energy in the form of waves, currents, periodic flooding, ice scour, and high winds. Variability in aquatic species increases with a decrease in energy. These sites are usually permanently flooded; rarely they may become exposed during extreme drought years. Ecoregional Variability Widespread but uncommon across Great Lakes-St.Lawrence range associated with the high energy shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. Edaphic Variability Shoreline communities produce characteristic zonal patterns due to the amount and frequency of wave, currents, periodic flooding, ice, and wind influences. This ecosite is found just below the exposed shoreline. Related Ecosites N/A 154 Rock substrate Organic substrate 151 Vascular vegetation cover > 2% 153 Constructed water collection

318 Active Limnetic Organic G156N Profile/Slope Sequence Ecosite Description Submerged organic material communities associated with the shorelines of large lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. These communities occur in low energy limnetic zones where the water is normally above the substrate surface but does not exceed 2 m. Vascular vegetation cover 25%. Shoreline processes such as waves, currents, periodic flooding, and ice scour are common but not severe. Substrate texture organic. Mostly deep and saturated. Substrate Description Substrate Series Mode of Deposition Family RO Moisture Regime Θ x h s Moisture d f m v w x h s Vegetation Description CO MO Sandy Coarse Loamy Silty Fine Loamy Clayey Peat Folic Vegetation cover is very limited and varies seasonally. Vegetation species highly variable consisting of species that are adapted to disturbance by flooding, ice-scouring, and strong currents and waves. L1 L6 GF FL LA GL EO OR GW WA CX AN Emergent Submergent To Be Determined Floatingleaved