Rutgers University Press, 2006 Paper: 978-0-8135-3831-0 | Cloth: 978-0-8135-3878-5 | eISBN: 978-0-8135-4014-6 Library of Congress Classification QH105.P4O65 2006 Dewey Decimal Classification 508.74825
ABOUT THIS BOOK | AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY | TOC
ABOUT THIS BOOK
The Poconos, a rich plateau nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania between the Delaware River and the Moosic Mountains, encompass a variety of alluring features. The perfect reference for amateur naturalists, outdoor enthusiasts, tourists, and others who wish to explore the area, this classic guide clearly explains the unique geographic characteristics, animal habits and habitats, climate, geology, and vegetation of the area.
The authors trace the region from its beginnings millions of years ago as part of a shallow sea, through the reshaping forces of great glaciers, to today’s roadways and turnpikes. This revised and expanded edition also includes brief profiles of individuals who played significant roles in the preservation or understanding of the area’s ecology. Chapters provide a general survey of the area, including its history and places to be explored and observed, information on forest types, wildlife, and aquatic habitats, updated facts and figures on animal populations, as well as new details on invasive species.
Throughout the book, numerous boxes direct readers to observatory points for specific birds, ecosystems, vegetation types, and geological features, while maps, tables, original pen-and-ink illustrations, and a select list of field guides and other references enhance the book’s appeal. An indispensable companion for visitors as well as residents, The Poconos is a must-read for everyone who wants to discover or better understand the beauty and natural history of this unique region.
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Carl Oplinger is professor emeritus at Muhlenberg College. Throughout his forty-one years there, he taught courses in zoology, ecology, and environmental science. For several decades, he conducted courses in marine ecology at The Bermuda Biological Station. He lives in Emmaus, Pennsylvania.
Robert Halma taught botany, ecology, and geology at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Today he is retired as professor emeritus and curator of the college's arboretum.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Pocono patterns 9
2 Geological forces that shaped the Poconos 28
3 Vegetation of Pocono forests 54
4 Animals of Pocono forests 97
5 Watercourse and wetland communities 149
6 Roadsides, waste places, and invasive species 212
7 Human activity from Native Americans to vacationers 234
8 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area 270
Rutgers University Press, 2006 Paper: 978-0-8135-3831-0 Cloth: 978-0-8135-3878-5 eISBN: 978-0-8135-4014-6
The Poconos, a rich plateau nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania between the Delaware River and the Moosic Mountains, encompass a variety of alluring features. The perfect reference for amateur naturalists, outdoor enthusiasts, tourists, and others who wish to explore the area, this classic guide clearly explains the unique geographic characteristics, animal habits and habitats, climate, geology, and vegetation of the area.
The authors trace the region from its beginnings millions of years ago as part of a shallow sea, through the reshaping forces of great glaciers, to today’s roadways and turnpikes. This revised and expanded edition also includes brief profiles of individuals who played significant roles in the preservation or understanding of the area’s ecology. Chapters provide a general survey of the area, including its history and places to be explored and observed, information on forest types, wildlife, and aquatic habitats, updated facts and figures on animal populations, as well as new details on invasive species.
Throughout the book, numerous boxes direct readers to observatory points for specific birds, ecosystems, vegetation types, and geological features, while maps, tables, original pen-and-ink illustrations, and a select list of field guides and other references enhance the book’s appeal. An indispensable companion for visitors as well as residents, The Poconos is a must-read for everyone who wants to discover or better understand the beauty and natural history of this unique region.
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Carl Oplinger is professor emeritus at Muhlenberg College. Throughout his forty-one years there, he taught courses in zoology, ecology, and environmental science. For several decades, he conducted courses in marine ecology at The Bermuda Biological Station. He lives in Emmaus, Pennsylvania.
Robert Halma taught botany, ecology, and geology at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Today he is retired as professor emeritus and curator of the college's arboretum.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Pocono patterns 9
2 Geological forces that shaped the Poconos 28
3 Vegetation of Pocono forests 54
4 Animals of Pocono forests 97
5 Watercourse and wetland communities 149
6 Roadsides, waste places, and invasive species 212
7 Human activity from Native Americans to vacationers 234
8 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area 270