BIOLOGICAL INVENTORY FOR CONSERVATION OF GREAT LAKES ISLANDS: 1998 PROGRESS REPORT

Prepared by: Michael R. Penskar Richard A. Corner Phyllis J. Higman Michael A. Kost Daria A. Hyde Emmet J. Judziewicz David L. Cuthrell

Michigan Natural Features Inventory P.O. Box 30444 Lansing, MI 48909-7944

For: Michigan Coastal Management Program Land and Water Management Division, MDEQ Coastal Management Program Grant #98-309-25

Report Number 1999-01 Submitted February 15, 1999 Executive Summary

In 1998, Michigan Natural Features bug (Prosapia ignipectus, SC) and no occur- Inventory (MNFI) initiated a multi-year project rences were documented. Historical sites for the to conduct biological inventories for the conser- deepwater pondsnail (Stagnicola contractus, vation of Great Lakes islands. The fundamental SC) were briefly surveyed; no collected shells goal of this project is to systematically examine were identified as those of this species. selected Great Lakes islands to elucidate their Rare plant inventories and natural commu- natural features and significant biodiversity nity reconnaissance were conducted on Beaver areas, and then to convey this information in a and Garden islands in late June and late August. form that can be used for landowner education Systematic inventories of the shoreline and and conservation planning purposes. The first selected interior areas resulted in a total of nine year of the project concentrated solely on bio- new rare plant occurrences (one of Pumpell’s logical inventories, emphasizing animal, plant, brome grass (Bromus pumpellianus, T), one of and natural community surveys. From the English sundew (Drosera anglica, SC), four of Beaver Island archipelago, we selected Beaver Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri, T), and three and Garden islands for inventory; within the of Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum huronense, T). Garden Peninsula island group, Little Summer, Detailed status and location information was Summer, and Poverty islands were selected. obtained for twenty-two previously known rare From the latter group, St. Martin Island was plant occurrences throughout Beaver and prioritized for inventory, but access was denied Garden islands. A previously known occurrence and this island was not surveyed. of the state endangered (E) Michigan monkey- Animal surveys were conducted on Beaver flower (Mimulus glabratus var. michiganensis), and Garden islands in May and August, focusing one of two on Beaver Island, was determined to on the inventory of migratory birds and targeted be likely extirpated due to human disturbance on insects and snails. Sixty-two bird species were the shoreline in St. James Harbor. Several observed during the study, of which 29 were potential high quality examples of three natural long distance migrants, 23 species were short community types (mesic northern forest, open distance migrants, and 10 species were resi- dunes, and boreal forest) were delineated during dents. Fifty-two bird species were observed at reconnaissance for subsequent evaluation by 31 point count sites during three days of surveys staff ecologists. on Beaver Island, comprised of 22 species of Spring floristic inventories were conducted long distance migrants, 22 species of short on Poverty, Summer, and Little Summer islands distance migrants, and 8 resident species. in the Garden Peninsula group, resulting in Thirty-three bird species were observed at 15 significant additions to the documented flora for point count sites on Garden Island, consisting of each island. Additional location and status 20 species of long distance migrants, 8 species information were provided for previously of short distance migrants, and 5 resident documented rare plant occurrences. Among the species. For insects, targeted surveys were new species documented for Little Summer conducted on Beaver Island to determine the Island were populations of climbing fumitory status of the State special concern (SC) aweme (Adlumia fungosa) and dwarf lake iris (Iris borer moth (Papaipema aweme) and the State lacustris). On Summer Island, in addition to threatened (T) Lake Huron locust (Trimerotro- locating several new colonies for beauty sedge pis huroniana). No borer moths were found (Carex concinna) and dwarf lake iris, a new area during limited blacklighting surveys. Of nine of a globally rare alvar community was sites surveyed on Beaver Island for Lake Huron identified along the shore. locust, eight populations were found, seven of Formal natural community surveys took which constituted new occurrences. Several place in late August on Beaver and Garden areas were examined for the red-legged spittle-

Great Lakes Islands - i Islands. On Beaver Island, several new occur- islands in northern Lake Huron, including Bois rences of open dunes were confirmed, in addi- Blanc Island, Marquette and the La Salle islands tion to a small but significant hemlock stand and in the Les Cheneaux chain, and Drummond a 20-30 acre tract of old-growth mesic northern Island. Aquatic zoology reconnaissance will forest. On Garden Island, surveys corroborated form a new component of the project, with an outstanding example of boreal forest, a preliminary studies targeted for Beaver and northern fen, and mesic northern forest, the Garden Island, and possible additional work in latter co-dominated by red oak and thus possibly the Garden Peninsula group and on Drummond an artifact of Native American agriculture. Island. The conservation planning phase of the Projected work for 1999 includes continued island project will be initiated with the forma- inventories of Beaver and Garden islands and tion of focus groups to determine the most possibly natural community surveys and effective methods of conveying the results of sampling on selected islands within the Garden biological inventory such that effective conser- Peninsula group. Inventories are targeted for vation of biodiversity can be achieved .

Great Lakes Islands - ii Table of Contents

Executive Summary...... i Introduction...... 1 Organization of Report ...... 2 The Study Area ...... 2 Methods for Animal Surveys...... 4 Birds ...... 4 Insects...... 6 Snails...... 7 Results of Animal Surveys ...... 7 Birds ...... 7 Insects...... 8 Snails...... 8 Discussion of Animal Surveys...... 10 Methods for Plant Surveys...... 11 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 12 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 13 Results of Plant Surveys ...... 14 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 14 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 14 Discussion of Plant Surveys ...... 16 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 16 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 17 Methods for Natural Community Surveys...... 18 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 18 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 18 Results of Natural Community Surveys ...... 18 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 18 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 19 Discussion of Natural Community Surveys...... 19 Site Summaries ...... 20 Beaver Island Sites...... 21 1. Lookout Point...... 21 2. St James Harbor...... 21 3. Sandy Point North...... 21 4. Sand Bay...... 22 5. Cable Bay...... 22 6. Lake Geneserath Hemlock Stand...... 23 7. Iron Ore Bay...... 23 8. Southwest Old-Growth...... 24 9. Cheyenne Point...... 24 10. French Bay...... 25 11. Greenes Bay – McFadden Point...... 25 12. Fox Lake...... 26 13. Lefts Point...... 27 14. Bonners Landing...... 27 15. Barneys Lake...... 28 16. Donegal Bay - McCauley Point...... 28

Great Lakes Islands - iii 17. Indian Point...... 28 Garden Island sites ...... 29 1. Garden Island West Boreal Forest...... 29 2. Red Oak Garden...... 29 3. Sweat lodge swale...... 30 Preliminary Identification of Significant Biodiversity Areas...... 30 Beaver and Garden Islands...... 30 Garden Peninsula Islands ...... 31 Projected Island Work for 1999...... 32 Natural community surveys...... 32 Botanical surveys ...... 32 Animal surveys...... 32 Aquatic surveys...... 32 Landowner contact...... 32 Acknowledgements...... 35 Literature Cited...... 36

Great Lakes Islands - iv Introduction

A considerable portion of the biological condominium complex proposed for North Fox diversity unique to the Great Lakes is supported Island, is indicative of the increasing pressure to by the thousands of islands found within the develop Michigan islands, which are beginning region. As characterized by Soule (1993), to sustain the cumulative effects evident on the “nowhere else does the combination of vast, mainland (Olson & Soule 1998.) In contrast, the interconnected, mid-continental bodies of recent formation of the Great Lakes Island freshwater and such a number and variety of Project in the Department of Resource islands occur.” The nearly 600 islands contained Development at Michigan State University, within Michigan’s border’s represent a critical coordinated by doctoral candidate Ms. Karen part of this freshwater landscape, owing to their Vigmostad, demonstrates the widespread richness in variety of geography, geological concern for conserving islands and their origin, history, and biodiversity. biological as well as cultural resources. A 1996 The intrinsic values of islands are well meeting in Michigan concerning the initiation of known. As detailed in an assessment of the this project induced several Great Lakes biodiversity of Michigan islands, Soule (1993) stakeholders to attend, including a wide variety discussed the importance of habitat for water- of international partners. This ground-breaking fowl, colonial nesting waterbirds, and neotropi- meeting will be presented in an upcoming publi- cal migratory songbirds. Because of the cation (Vigmostad et al. 1999, in press) relatively undisturbed and isolated nature of summarizing, among other topics, strategies for their habitat, islands may be especially impor- conservation. Among the strategies, biological tant for neotropical migrants. Many species have inventory was considered to be an essential and become greatly diminished through the loss and fundamental component. fragmentation of mainland forest and grassland Over approximately the past two decades habitats throughout their summer and winter Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) ranges, and migratory pathways have been has systematically surveyed many natural similarly affected (M. Hamas, pers. comm.). communities and rare species found on or allied Islands also provide significant habitat for with Great Lakes islands. Early surveys numerous other species, including many rare included Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plants and animals, several of which are islands that were being considered for relin- endemic or largely restricted to the Great Lakes quishment to state ownership (Penskar & region. Due to their isolation, islands provide Ludwig 1981). Subsequent MNFI projects have good examples of many Great Lakes-associated included comprehensive surveys of several natural communities and ecosystems, and thus natural community types, such as coastal dune have potential to provide insights for under- systems (Chapman et al. 1985, Reese et al. standing the consequences of human disturbance 1986), Great Lakes marshes (Albert et al. 1987, on the increasingly fragmented ecosystems of Albert et al. 1988, Albert et al. 1989), dune and the mainland. swale complexes (Comer & Albert 1991, Comer Conducting comprehensive biological & Albert 1993), lakeplain prairies (Comer et al. inventories on Great Lakes islands is both 1995a), and bedrock lakeshores (Albert et al. timely and crucial to future conservation plan- 1994, Albert et al. 1995, Albert et al. 1997). ning. Home building and construction along Additional inventories have focused on targeting Great Lakes shorelines continues at an unprece- unexplored or poorly known shoreline areas for dented pace, and islands, owing to their endemic plant species to enhance the statewide isolation and exclusivity, are particularly valued database for environmental reviews and conser- by developers. The increasing interest in tract vation planning (Penskar et al. 1993; Penskar et projects, such as a large, golf-course al. 1997). However, the vast majority of this

Great Lakes Islands - 1 work has been directed toward completing on two significant island assemblages in north- inventories of mainland areas. ern Lake Michigan. Within this biologically rich Using the island biodiversity assessment by region, several Garden Peninsula islands (Little Soule (1993), in conjunction with data obtained Summer, Summer, Poverty, and St. Martin) and from recent inventories, MNFI has initiated a two of the largest islands in the Beaver Island projected multi-year project to systematically archipelago (Beaver and Garden islands) were target and inventory Michigan’s most significant selected as our first targets. Although emphasis islands. Biological inventories will be followed was placed on planning and conducting standard by the dissemination of appropriate information field inventories, considerable efforts were to island communities such that stakeholders directed toward learning the particular logistics can be enabled to make effective conservation of performing island surveys. We present here planning decisions, a project component that the progress report on the first year of our will begin in 1999. Because the full scope and biological inventory for the conservation of approach of this project cannot be determined at Michigan’s Great Lakes islands. its inception, we have focused our initial efforts

Organization of Report

This report has been organized according to emphasizing the delineation and assessment of the three main components of the inventory: high quality natural communities. Methods, animal surveys, with an emphasis on migratory results, and discussion are provided separately birds and rare invertebrates; plant inventories, for each of these components. A preliminary focusing on Great Lakes shoreline endemics and assessment of significant biodiversity areas and the identification of intact coastal and interior a brief description of projected work for 1999 habitats; and natural community surveys, surveys follow those sections.

The Study Area

The principal study sites for the first year of archipelago, which were not visited during this island inventory included Beaver and Garden inventory, are Gull, Hat, High, Hog, Squaw, islands, two of nine islands that comprise the Trout, and Whiskey island, variously located to Beaver Island Group in northeast Lake the east, west and south of Beaver and Garden Michigan (Figure 1). Located approximately 19 islands. These island range in size from 11.25 to miles west of its nearest point in Emmet County 3,510 acres. on the Lower Peninsula mainland, Beaver is the Several islands of the Garden Peninsula largest of these islands, covering approximately group were identified for floristic inventory, 35,466 acres. Several thousand acres of the consisting of (from north to south) Little southern half of the island occur within the Summer, Summer, Poverty, and St. Martin Mackinac and Jordan River State Forests. Public islands (Fig. 1). St. Martin Island, the southern- land thus comprises the majority of this region most island of the group about 10 miles of the island. To the north about 1.25 miles at its southwest of Fairport, was identified as a survey closest point, lies Garden Island, the second site but could not be accessed, and is not largest of the group, covering approximately depicted. Little Summer Island, occurring about 4,372 acres and occurring entirely within the one mile directly southwest of the city of Fair- Beaver Islands State Wildlife Research Area. port at the tip of the Garden Peninsula, is The remaining islands of the Beaver

Great Lakes Islands - 2 approximately 600 acres in size, with less than is a nearly 200 acre island that lies within the 100 acres contained within Lake Superior State Lake Superior State Forest, and also includes Forest. Summer Island, the largest of the federal land associated with a former lighthouse Garden Peninsula group, lies about 2.5 miles facility. Although currently within state owner- south of Fairport, and is more than 2200 acres in ship, Poverty Island may ultimately be size, approximately 1000 acres of which are transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Lake Superior State Forest land. Poverty Island refuge system.

Little Summer

Summer

Poverty

Garden

Beaver

Figure 1. Location of study areas in northern Lake Michigan

Great Lakes Islands - 3 Methods for Animal Surveys

Neotropical migratory birds and rare inver- tial survey sites. A field schedule was developed tebrates endemic or largely restricted to the based on prior Michigan observation and Great Lakes region were the primary targets of collection dates for each animal group or animal surveys on Beaver and Garden Islands species, and the extent of suitable habitat. (Figures 2 and 3). The Natural Heritage Survey techniques varied according to species Biological and Conservation Database (BCD) and are described in the following sections. was consulted for known occurrences of rare Incidental observations of listed species, which animal species associated with these islands. have been designated under the federal and/or Information on various species was gathered by state Endangered Species Acts as endangered, consulting expert zoologists and wildlife threatened, or special concern status, were noted biologists, pertinent unpublished reports, and a by all project staff when they occurred. Data variety of published sources. Survey sites for from all sightings of listed animal species were each target species or group were selected based recorded on MNFI field forms, including upon historical occurrence records, air photo numbers of individuals observed and the extent interpretation, current land cover maps, and by and quality of occupied habitat. These data were consulting with individuals knowledgeable then entered into the BCD. In addition, all birds about the islands’ flora and fauna. In addition, species observed during spring migration were MNFI ecologists and botanists identified poten- recorded.

Birds The Great Lakes shorelines serve as impor- Dr. Michael Hamas of Central Michigan tant migration corridors for large concentrations University (CMU), Dr. James Gillingham of the of migrant landbirds (Beebe 1933, Perkins 1964, CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island, and Hussel et al. 1992). Great Lakes islands may act local birdwatchers Irmgard Neils, Donna as focal points for migratory birds which tend to Hardenberg and Marilyn Reed who live on accumulate near ecological barriers (Moore and Beaver Island, were consulted in selecting areas Simons 1992). Scharf (1973) suggested that and in targeting the most appropriate time islands forming northward extensions of the period to conduct surveys for migratory birds. Michigan mainland might concentrate migratory Bird counts using the point count method were birds. He further hypothesized that islands in conducted using standard methodology as general act as attractants for nocturnal migrants outlined by Ralph et al. (1993, 1995). All birds caught over open water at dawn and that the seen or heard within a 50-meter radius were island-hopping path is part of traditional or tallied for 5 minutes. Birds seen or heard outside hereditary patterns of the birds. Scharf (1973) the 50-meter radius circle were noted also. Point documents large numbers of passerines moving counts were conducted at thirty-two different along the shorelines of North and South sites on Beaver Island and at fifteen sites on Manitou and South Fox Islands as part of a very Garden Island in a variety of habitats (Table 1). large and important flyway. He remarks that it is Spring bird counts were conducted between surprising that Beaver Island has not been sunrise and 1200 hr on 14-16 May 1998 on documented as an important migration area. Beaver Island and 17-18 May 1998 on Garden Although previous studies have recorded the Island. All counts were conducted when there avifauna of Beaver Island (Hatt et al. 1948, was no precipitation and little or no wind. Drew and Phillips 1964, Mahan 1969, Grudzien Surveys began immediately after the observer 1979), this survey further elucidates the role that arrived at the location. Field staff conducting the Beaver Island and other islands in the Beaver point counts were able to identify Michigan archipelago may play in providing critical stop- birds by sight and sound. Only one observer over habitat to migratory birds. counted birds at each site. Point counts were

Great Lakes Islands - 4 Legend

Bird Survey Sites Insect Survey Sites

Snail Survey Sites Plant and Community Survey Sites

17. Indian Point

1. Lookout Point

16. Donegal Bay – 2. St. James Harbor McCauley Point

15. Barneys Lake 3. Sandy Point North

14. Bonners Landing

13. Letts Point 4. Sand Bay

12. Fox Lake

11. Greenes Bay – McFadden Point

10. French Bay

9. Cheyenne Pt. 5. Cable Bay

6. Lake Geneserath 8. SW Old-Growth Hemlock Stand 7. Iron Ore Bay

Figure 2. Sites visited on Beaver Island noted by type of survey. Site summaries are provided for numbered sites. Great Lakes Islands - 5 Legend

Bird Surveys Plant and Community Surveys

3. Sweat Lodge Swale 1. Garden Island West Boreal Forest

2. Red Oak Garden

Figure 3. Garden Island Survey Sites by type. Site summaries are included for numbered sites.

conducted at least 250 m apart to ensure that targeted for survey, their presence or absence each bird was counted only once. Standard field was noted during spring surveys for Neotropical forms for point counts were used. migratory birds. Areas of cobble beach habitat The federally endangered piping plover along Donegal Bay where piping plovers have a (Charadrius melodus), and the state threatened history of occurrence were surveyed on 15 May common loon (Gavia immer) are known to 1998. Other historical piping plover sites were occur on Beaver Island. Although they were not not surveyed.

Insects The aweme borer (Papaipema aweme) is an 1998. These sites include McFadden Point, extremely rare noctuid moth known from only McCauley Point and Mount Pisgah, all of which four sites globally. It was collected in 1925 on are located on the west side of the island. Sites Beaver Island (Moore 1930), and has not been were located adjacent to dune formations and documented since, despite a survey in 1987 and targeted a variety of microhabitats located 1988 (Profant 1991). No rangewide surveys within these dune communities. Light trapping have been conducted for this species and this is was conducted with a standard 1500-watt the only known Michigan record. Virtually mercury-vapor light and a 15-watt UV black- nothing is known about the life history of this light powered by portable Honda generator. A 2 species. Based on collection locations it is x 2 meter metal conduit frame supporting a large believed to be associated with the dune forma- white sheet was used as a collecting surface. tions of lakes (present day or glacial) or adjacent Collection periods generally started at sunset wetlands (Profant 1991). (about 2000 hr) and lasted for 4 - 6 hr. Insects Blacklighting for Papaipema aweme was collected from the sheet were transferred to an conducted using standard light trapping methods ethyl acetate-charged killing jar and later trans- at three sites on Beaver Island on 17-19 August ferred to a zip-lock plastic bag and placed into a

Great Lakes Islands - 6 cooler. Bagged samples were then frozen until Surveys were conducted between 1000-1800 hr they could be processed. At a later date, insects on 17-19 August 1998, by walking through areas were identified and prepared following standard of suitable habitat and searching for adults. At insect collection techniques. Prepared speci- new locations, voucher specimens were mens were identified to genus or species using collected with an aerial net. published references. Large areas of little bluestem (Andropogon The Lake Huron locust (Trimerotropis scoparius) in large open dune systems at Iron huroniana) is a Great Lakes endemic known Ore Bay and McFadden Point on Beaver Island only from high quality, sparsely vegetated were sampled with a sweepnet to determine the coastal sand dunes of Michigan, Wisconsin and presence of red-legged spittlebug (Prosapia Ontario. It is presently listed as State threatened ignipectus). This is a species of special concern and has been recommended to the U.S. Fish and in Michigan and is associated with native Wildlife service for consideration as a federally grasses in jack pine barrens, lakeplain prairies, listed species. Previous surveys for this species prairie fens, and alvars. Standard samples on Beaver Island have been restricted to the consisted of sixty sweeps of a sweepnet, with northeastern portion of the island between St. one swing taken with each step as the collector James and the Central Michigan University walked. The contents of the net were emptied Biological Station. Survey sites for this study into a large killing jar charged with ethyl included high quality open dune communities on acetate, which was then transferred to a zip-lock Beaver Island near Indian Point, McFadden plastic bag and placed into a cooler. Bagged Point, Donegal Bay Park, McCauley Point, samples were frozen until they could be sorted Cable Bay North, Little Sandy Bay, the Karl and processed. Standard MNFI field forms were Erber Nature Preserve, Iron Ore Bay and open completed in the field for all surveys. dunes at the southernmost tip of the island.

Snails The deepwater pondsnail (Stagnicola from the shorelines of Fox Lake and Barneys contractus) is endemic to Michigan and is only Lake in 1939 and 1940. These lakes were briefly known from four sites. Live individuals have surveyed on 19 August 1998. Shoreline areas been found at only a single site, Higgins Lake, were searched and dead snail shells were Roscommon County, in Chara at depths of collected. These shells were sent to University approximately 33 feet (10 m) (Burch 1994). of Michigan Museum of Zoology for identifica- Two of the historical locations for this species tion. occur on Beaver Island. Specimens were taken

Results of Animal Surveys

Birds Sixty-two bird species were observed as part dents (birds that winter and breed in the same of this study (Table 1). Twenty-nine species can region). be classified as long distance migrants (birds Fifty-two bird species were observed at that winter south and breed north of the Tropic thirty-one sites where point counts were of Cancer), 23 species are short distance conducted during three days of surveys on migrants (birds that winter in the southern U.S. Beaver Island (Table 1). Of these, 22 species are and northern Mexico and breed in the U.S. and long-distance migrants, 22 species are short- Canada), and 10 species can be considered resi- distance migrants and 8 species are residents.

Great Lakes Islands - 7 Thirty-three bird species were observed at (Table 1). Of these, 20 species are long-distance fifteen sites where point counts were conducted migrants, 8 species are short-distance migrants, during two days of surveys on Garden Island and 5 species are residents.

Insects No aweme borer moths were found at the Early season field surveys by botany and three sites where blacklighting was conducted zoology staff resulted in the identification of on Beaver Island. With so few specimens known high quality open dunes with potential for Lake for this species it is difficult to predict with Huron locust populations. Of the nine sites great accuracy the flight period for adult moths. surveyed for the grasshopper, populations were The flight period is suspected to occur in the last found at eight of these locations. Seven of these two weeks of August but it is possible that we sites resulted in new occurrence records for this surveyed too late in the year based on the species and one site reconfirmed a previously unusually warm spring and summer. In addition, known occurrence. No red-legged spittlebugs sampling conditions were not optimal due to were found in the two areas that were sampled. excessive wind speeds, therefore further survey work should be undertaken.

Snails No specimens of the deepwater pondsnail Lymnaea stagnalis, Physa sp. Stagnicola elodes, were found in the limited searches that were and Stagnicola sp. Identification of the Stagni- conducted. Other species that were collected cola specimens to species is pending. include Campeloma decisum, Elimia livescens,

Table 1. Bird Species Recorded During Migration Point Counts on Beaver Island and Garden Island, Charlevoix County, Michigan, 1998.

Common Name Scientific Name Beaver Island Garden Island Long-distance Migrants: Merlin Falco columbarius X Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia X* Veery Catharus fuscecens X Gray-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus X* Least Flycatcher Empiodonax minimus X Great Crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus X* Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus X* Gray Catbird Dumatella carolinensis XX Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus XX Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina X Nashville Warbler Vermivora ruficapilla XX Northern Parula Parula americana X Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia X Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pensylvanica XX Magnolia Warbler Dendroica magnolia XX

Great Lakes Islands - 8 Common Name Scientific Name Beaver Island Garden Island Long-distance Migrants continued: Cape May Warbler Dendroica tigrina X* Black-throated Blue Warbler Dendroica caerulescens XX Black-throated Green Warbler Dendroica virens XX Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica fusca XX Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum X* Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia XX American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla XX Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapillus XX Common Yellowthroat Geothylpis trichas X Wilson’s Warbler Wilsonia pusilla X Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheuticus ludovicianus XX Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea X*

Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerina XX Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula X Short-distance Migrants: Common Loon Gavia immer X* Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias X Common Merganser Mergus merganser X* Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura X Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis X* Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago X* Killdeer Charadrius vociferus X Caspian Tern Sterna caspia X Brown Creeper Certhia americana X* Winter Wren Troglodytes troglodytes XX Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula XX Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus X American Robin Turdus migratorius XX Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata XX Eastern Towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus X Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis X Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia XX White-throated Sparrow Zonotrichia albicolis XX White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys X Red-winged Blackbird Abelaius phoeniceus XX * Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna X Brown-headed Cowbird Moluthrus ater X American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis X Residents: Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus X* Ruffed Grouse Bonasa umbellus X*

Great Lakes Islands - 9 Common Name Scientific Name Beaver Island Garden Island Residents continued: Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo X Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus X* Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata XX American Crow Corvus brachyrhncos X* Black-capped Chickadee Parus atricappilus XX Red-breasted Nuthatch Sitta canadensis XX* White-breasted Nuthatch Sitta carolinensis X Evening Grosbeak** Coccothraustes vespertinus X

* Species observed outside the 50-meter radius circle or observed after the point count. ** Winter resident only.

Discussion of Animal Surveys

Results from our 1998 survey of spring insects. Further surveys are needed to deter- migratory birds on Beaver and Garden islands mine which habitats on the islands are most can only be regarded as preliminary. Ideally, critical to migrating birds. multi-year surveys would be needed to evaluate The black-throated blue warbler (Dendroica total bird use and use of various habitats, as well caerulescens) which was observed on both as consistency of that use from year to year with Beaver and Garden Island has been ranked by varying weather patterns. Based on our first the bird conservation organization, Partners in year’s work, survey results indicate that Beaver Flight (PIF), as a species of moderately high and Garden islands provide important stopover priority for conservation action due to its very habitat for spring migratory birds. It is interest- restricted wintering range. The PIF watch list ing to note that spring migrants bypassed many includes those birds of the continental United traditional stopover sites on the Michigan States not already listed under the Endangered mainland in 1998 because of unfavorable Species Act that warrant conservation attention. weather conditions. Yet, an abundance and It will be important to determine whether the diversity of migrating birds were observed on black-throated blue warbler nests on these both Beaver and Garden islands. Factors that islands and to identify critical stopover and/or likely contribute to the distribution of migratory breeding habitat for this species. birds using these islands as stopover sites The state threatened merlin (Falco colum- include weather conditions, human use patterns, baris) was noted both singly and in pairs, abundance of potential prey, predation pressure, hunting at four different locations on Beaver and the composition, structure, and successional Island both in the spring and late summer. It is stage of the vegetation. It is noteworthy that unclear whether these observations were of swarming insects were observed in some beach migrating merlins homing in on an abundant areas during point counts. Emerging aquatic source of avian prey in the form of trans-lake insects along the shoreline may provide migra- migrants, or whether these sightings include tory birds a significant food resource in the nesting pairs. It is not known whether the state spring when terrestrial insects may be more threatened common loon and bald eagle scarce. Trees and shrubs lining the shoreline (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), observed during may provide an excellent foraging substrate for spring surveys, remained to nest on Beaver or neotropical migratory birds feeding on these Garden Island. One additional listed bird, the

Great Lakes Islands - 10 state threatened Caspian tern (Sterna caspia), Sandy Bay, a historical site for this species, was was noted during surveys on Beaver Island. This disappointing with only a very small population species has apparently nested continuously in noted. This survey was done late in the day and the Beaver Island complex since at least early it is possible that search conditions were not settlement times (Barrows 1912). optimal. Although it is uncertain how long these Surveys for the aweme borer moth are populations can persist in small isolated pock- inconclusive due to the limited sampling effort ets, remnant dune areas located in the midst of and the less than optimal survey conditions. development can still provide critical habitat for Although this species has not been reported in this species. seventy-three years and may well be extinct on Future research should include surveys for Beaver Island, more intensive surveys are this species on the north side of the island, needed. Additional surveys of high quality dune which has not been studied. The dune commu- habitats on other islands and along the eastern nity at Iron Ore Bay, where a new population shoreline of Lake Michigan would further clar- was discovered this year, requires further explo- ify this species’ status in Michigan. ration. In addition, the CMU Biological Station, Six of the eight new sites for the Lake where this species was last observed in 1975, Huron locust are located on the western or should be resurveyed. It would be informative to southern sides of the island. The western shore- map locations of Lake Huron locust populations line of the island has more vertical structure, and determine the degree to which occupied higher dune ridges, and more dune blowouts sites are interconnected. This may help to than the eastern side of the island, which is determine whether the various locations should lacking this vertical structure. The western and be considered one site or whether they should be southern coasts of the island are subject to the viewed as a metapopulation. This analysis is prevailing winds from the southwest. This may essential in developing management and conser- result in shifting sands, which helps to keep the vation strategies for the species. dunes open, thus maintaining habitat for the More intensive surveys are needed to locust. determine whether the deepwater pondsnail still It is extremely significant to find so many occurs on Beaver Island, particularly at Barneys new populations of the Lake Huron locust on Lake which had a diverse snail assemblage. Beaver Island. The high quality, large dune Survey techniques that target live specimens complexes at McFadden Point and Cable Bay within the lake should be implemented in the North are especially noteworthy. The survey future. conducted in the open dune community at Little

Methods for Plant Surveys

Islands selected for plant field inventories forest dune-swale complexes. However, empha- were identified following examination of the sis was also placed on delineating notable Natural Heritage Biological and Conservation interior natural communities. This was done Database (BCD) and consultation with MNFI both to identify significant potential rare plant staff ecologists and other scientists. As in previ- habitats as well as to conduct a preliminary ous studies (Penskar et al. 1993, Penskar et al. assessment for high quality community 1997), our high priority targets were Great remnants for subsequent evaluation by MNFI Lakes endemic plant species, most of which are ecologists. For the first year of island studies, associated with shoreline areas and natural our focus areas were identified as the Beaver communities such as open dunes, coastal rich Island archipelago and the Garden Peninsula conifer swamps, bedrock beaches, alvar, and islands. From these areas, we selected Beaver

Great Lakes Islands - 11 and Garden islands (Charlevoix County) for islands, and to some extent Little Summer targeted botanical surveys and reconnaissance Island, have been the focus of previous MNFI (Figures 2 and 3). From the Garden Peninsula coastal zone inventories for targeted rare plants, group, St. Martin, Poverty, Summer, and Little rare animals, and high priority natural Summer islands (Delta County) were identified communities such as globally rare alvars (Albert principally for detailed floristic studies. The et al. 1995). Conducting floristic investigations latter group was selected to collaborate with on these islands was thus determined to be the similar inventories being conducted most useful effort at this time to assist in concurrently on the adjacent Door Peninsula comprehensive biogeographic analyses of the islands in Wisconsin. Poverty and Summer Door Peninsula to Garden Peninsula region.

Beaver and Garden Islands Copies of all occurrence records were of various habitats. Potential significant natural compiled, and then location points and other community sites, such as mature interior forest data, such as precision codes and last observed stands and high quality open dune areas, were dates, were transcribed onto USGS 7.5 minute tentatively identified for further evaluation in topographic quadrangles for reference during collaboration with staff ecologists. We also field inventories. Occurrence records and maps identified public access areas or private sites for were studied to identify significant gaps which access could be sought. warranting survey, with a focus on shoreline Following initial reconnaissance efforts, a regions. In general, gaps were considered to be systematic inventory of the shoreline of Beaver areas displaying no records that appeared to Island was begun, emphasizing identified survey have suitable habitat to support rarities. Occur- gaps and poorly known populations. When rare rence records were also studied for their last plant occurrences were located, standard MNFI observation date, location precision, sufficiency field forms were initiated. Information was of population status information, and other rele- gathered concerning associated species, threats, vant conservation data. Vaguely located occur- the presence of exotic species, the extent of rences, historical and relatively dated records, available habitat, and artificial disturbance and populations for which there existed few data features, such as evidence of off-road-vehicle on extent, condition, and status were highlighted (ORV) use. The extent of all areas surveyed and for inventory. Following compilation of the the specific locations of rare plant populations databases, black and white prints of MDNR were marked on field topographic maps. Where 1:24,000 color infrared (CIR) aerial photos were appropriate, photographs were taken of repre- gathered for field reference, ongoing interpreta- sentative areas, and when necessary, occasional tion, and ground-truthing. Complete CIR aerial plant specimens were taken for determination. photo flight lines for both islands were exam- Manuals consulted for identification, taxonomy, ined briefly in MDNR’s remote sensing lab via and nomenclature were primarily Voss (1996, stereoscope. Because the majority of our inven- 1985, 1972) and Holmgren (1998), the latter a tories were anticipated as taking place along companion guide for use with Gleason & shorelines, and our emphasis was on reconnais- Cronquist (1991). Garden Island was accessed sance, detailed photo interpretation and commu- via charter boat for a single field day in June nity delineation were not felt to be necessary and another in August, the latter day in the initially. company of MNFI staff ecologists. June surveys Early and late season field surveys were on Garden Island focused on broad coverage of conducted from June 21-26 and August 16-21, the northern half of the island via trails and 1998, by P. Higman and M. Penskar. On Beaver mountain bikes. Representative areas of shore- Island, early season inventories focused initially line were walked and potentially significant on reconnaissance to optimize coverage of the natural community sites were delineated for island and become familiarized with the range subsequent review with MNFI ecologists. Late

Great Lakes Islands - 12 season surveys in August focused on continuing entry into the statewide heritage database. systematic shoreline surveys and evaluating Known occurrences for which new status infor- potentially high quality natural community sites mation was obtained were updated, ranked, and on both islands with MNFI ecologists. These processed for the heritage database. Assistance inventories were conducted in coordination with was also provided to ecologists during the proc- R. Corner and M. Kost. Natural community essing of natural community data. These data forms were initiated when a high quality will eventually be exported to update the state- community was identified. wide MIRIS (Michigan Resource Information Following field surveys, inventory data System) and CIWPIS (MNFI field forms, field notes, photos, and (Coastal Inland Water Permit Information topographic map notations) were compiled, System) databases. reviewed, and summarized. New plant records were evaluated, given an element occurrence rank1, and then transcribed for mapping and

1 “Element occurrence rank”, noted basically as A, B, D-ranked occurrences are those that are generally C, or D, is a natural heritage evaluation of the quality small, vulnerable to obvious threats and/or occur in of the occurrence; an A-ranked occurrence is degraded sites, and are not considered to be viable. considered an exemplary, viable population, whereas

Garden Peninsula Islands Floristic inventories of Poverty, Summer, deposited in Wisconsin and Michigan herbaria3. and Little Summer islands were conducted from Species identified in various reports and publi- May 26-29, 1998 by E. Judziewicz. Despite cations, but apparently unsupported by voucher considerable effort and negotiation, access to St. specimens, were also noted for potential docu- Martin Island -- the island most in need of mentation. Surveys on Poverty Island were inventory -- was ultimately denied for the conducted on May 26, for Summer Island from purposes of this project2. However, despite this May 26-28, and on Little Summer Island on denial, data for St. Martin Island were sought May 29. during the compilation of information on this Surveys were performed by meander island group. Knowledge of previous floristic searches of representative and targeted habitats, work conducted in this island group by such such as shorelines, mesophytic forests, lime- investigators as Fuller (1927) and Forzley et al. stone and dolomite outcrops including scarps, (1993), in addition to data obtained by MNFI cliffs and alvars, shoreline glades, beach ridge during alvar surveys (Albert et al. 1995) indi- and swale complexes, swamps, and mixed cated that spring surveys had strong merit. hardwood-conifer forests. In addition, disturbed Because it was not possible to conduct multiple areas were also highlighted to document exotic visits for each island, surveys in late-May were taxa as well as potential rare plant species such anticipated to provide the most data to augment as climbing fumitory (Adlumia fungosa) that previous work. Prior to surveys, information respond favorably to artificial disturbance. was compiled detailing the taxa documented for When new species were encountered, voucher each island, based largely on specimens specimens were obtained and placed in a plant

2 press, with pertinent location and collection With the exception of approximately 40 acres of federal property comprising the lighthouse grounds, 3 The floristic survey of Michigan islands was the more than 1200 acre island is privately owned, the conducted as part of a larger study by E. Judziewicz vast majority held by a group of Wisconsin residents entitled “Flora and Vegetation of the Grand Traverse identified as the St. Martin partnership. Islands (Lake Michigan), Wisconsin and Michigan”, manuscript in progress.

Great Lakes Islands - 13 information recorded in a field notebook. field forms for eventual transcription and data Specimens that could not be identified in the processing. Following field inventories, voucher field, such as some grasses and sedges, were specimens were tallied, determined as appropri- selected for keying and subsequent herbarium ate, and then labeled for accessioning at the determination where necessary. Surveys were University of Wisconsin Herbarium (WISC). also conducted to better ascertain the status and Finally, a catalog of all vascular plants docu- distribution of several listed species discovered mented was compiled in a spreadsheet for in prior inventories. Locations of listed species comparison to several other Michigan and were noted on copies of topographic maps, and Wisconsin islands (Judziewicz, in prep). information was recorded for completing MNFI

Results of Plant Surveys

Beaver and Garden Islands Results of rare plant surveys conducted on known extent were recorded. In addition, popu- Beaver and Garden islands are presented in lation data were compiled such that the viability Tables 2 and 3. A total of 22 known rare plant of all of these occurrences could be reliably occurrences representing six species (Pitcher’s evaluated and ranked. A total of nine new rare thistle, dwarf lake iris, Lake Huron tansy, plant occurrences representing four species Michigan monkey-flower, butterwort, and water (Pitcher’s thistle, English sundew, Lake Huron shore-grass) were re-documented and substan- tansy, and Pumpell’s brome grass) were docu- tively updated during early and late season mented, with all but two found on Beaver inventories. Twenty-one of these occurrences Island. In collaboration with MNFI staff ecolo- were observed on Beaver Island. An occurrence gists, a total of eight new natural community of Michigan monkey-flower in St. James occurrences representing four types (open Harbor, where its specific location was well- dunes, northern fen, boreal forest, and mesic known, was presumed to be extirpated based on northern forest) were identified. Three commu- the apparent destruction and modification of its nity occurrences, each representing a different habitat. For many occurrences that were relo- natural community type, were identified on cated, significant expansions of their previously Garden Island (Table 2).

Garden Peninsula Islands Surveys of Poverty, Summer, and Little Peninsula group, was surveyed over portions of Summer islands resulted in significant additions three days. Of the 390 documented number of to their documented flora. For Poverty Island, plant species now known for the island, the smallest island surveyed, 47 vascular plant approximately 50-60 new species were tallied species were added to the 173 reported by during this survey. Notable finds included the Forzley et al. (1993), representing a consider- documentation of the grass Trisetum melicoides able increase in the known flora of this rela- and striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum). tively small island. In addition, the well known Although neither species is included on the alvar community occurring along the eastern State list of threatened and endangered plants in shore of Poverty Island was thoroughly Michigan, they occur on Summer Island at searched, resulting in a detailed mapping of essentially their western range limit. No new several new colonies of Richardson’s sedge rare plant species were documented for the (Carex richardsonii), a rare sedge known previ- island. However, intensive surveys during this ously from only a limited area on the island. floristic study resulted in the identification of a Summer Island, the largest island of the Garden significant new area of alvar at the northern end

Great Lakes Islands - 14 of the island. In addition, updated location and tions were documented during the floristic population information were obtained for the survey. On the eastern shore along the state land federal and state threatened dwarf lake iris and boundary, a small population of dwarf lake iris the state special concern beauty sedge (Carex was discovered. In addition, a large population concinna). For Little Summer Island, of the state special concern climbing fumitory Judziewicz collected or observed 174 plant (Adlumia fungosa) was found in disturbed species, estimated to represent about two-thirds dolomitic gravel along a new perimeter road of the total flora of the island. Surveys were near the state boundary, where artificial distur- concentrated on the shoreline and within the bance apparently unearthed a seed bank. block of state land in the island’s center, where a rich mesic forest was found with notable spring ephemerals. Two new rare plant popula-

Table 2. Rare plant and natural community sites inventoried during 1998 surveys of Beaver island. Site name Known occurrences relocated and New occurrences documented updated 1. Lookout Point Bromus pumpellianus Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense Open Dunes 2. St. James Harbor Cirsium pitcheri Mimulus glabratus var. michiganensis Tanacetum huronense

3. Sandy Bay North Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense

4. Sand Bay Cirsium pitcheri Open Dunes Tanacetum huronense

5. Cable Bay Cirsium pitcheri Open Dunes Tanacetum huronense

6. Lake Geneserath Mesic northern forest Hemlock Stand

7. Iron Ore Bay Cirsium pitcheri Open Dunes Tanacetum huronense

8. SW Old-growth Mesic northern forest

9. Cheyenne Point Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense

10. French Bay Cirsium pitcheri Iris lacustris Tanacetum huronense

11. Greenes Bay – Cirsium pitcheri Open Dunes McFadden Point Tanacetum huronense

Great Lakes Islands - 15 12. Fox Lake Littorella uniflora

13. Lefts Point Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense

Table 2 continued 14. Bonners Lansing Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense

15. Barneys Lake

16. Donegal Bay – Cirsium pitcheri McCauley Point Tanacetum huronense

17. Indian Point Cirsium pitcheri Tanacetum huronense

Table 3. Rare plant and natural community occurrences identified during 1998 surveys of Garden island. Site name Known occurrences relocated and New occurrences documented updated 1. Garden Island West Boreal forest Boreal Forest

2. Garden Red Oak Mesic northern forest

3. Sweat lodge swale Pinguicula vulgaris Northern fen Cirsium pitcheri Drosera anglica

Discussion of Plant Surveys

Beaver and Garden Islands Relatively brief but intensive surveys of 1981, Penskar et al. 1993, Penskar et al. 1997), Beaver and Garden islands resulted in several it was anticipated that data gaps would be read- significant records. The majority of new rare ily delineated, and from these several new plant plant occurrences resulted from the systematic occurrences would be discovered. A tally of the survey of shoreline gaps. Beaver Island is field routes annotated on topographic maps considered to be a well-studied area, and serves indicates that approximately 20 miles of shore- as the site of Central Michigan University’s line were examined on Beaver Island alone, with summer biological station. Nonetheless, Beaver another 3-4 miles of shoreline covered on Island is also a large Great Lakes island, and Garden Island. considering the logistics of performing island The vast majority of new occurrences we surveys, it is not unexpected that portions could documented were found in association with sand remain substantially unexplored. Based on expe- dune communities. As these communities were rience gained from previous inventories of Great identified, we realized that several were large Lakes islands and shorelines (Penskar & Ludwig

Great Lakes Islands - 16 and sufficiently intact (evidenced in part by the This tract appeared to be markedly different presence of large, vigorous rare plant popula- than most forests observed while driving across tions) to merit recognition as natural community the island. When subsequently visited with staff occurrences. Several of these sites were subse- ecologists and more thoroughly examined, we quently examined by MNFI staff ecologists to identified a high quality example of mesic corroborate them as qualifying occurrences for northern forest possibly representing a very rare the statewide database. In addition to identifying remnant on the island. Development of a “search several dune occurrences and their component image” for this community and its structure rare species, a notable northern fen was discov- enabled us to study and identify similar types on ered in a coastal interdunal wetland on Garden Garden Island (e.g. Garden Red Oak stand), and Island. Within this wetland we reconfirmed the will be used to conduct a more thorough aerial presence of a known record for butterwort photo interpretation of Beaver Island prior to (Pinguicula vulgaris) and discovered a new 1999 surveys. Boreal forest was a second type record for English sundew (Drosera anglica), a of forest community highlighted after the June species previously unknown on this island. reconnaissance of Garden Island. Inventory of Although the vast majority of botanical this coastal conifer forest type in August with survey efforts were dedicated to comprehensive staff ecologists resulted in the identification of shoreline inventories, interior sites were what is possibly one of the most exemplary assessed as well, with a focus on identifying occurrences known of this community type. potentially high quality community occurrences. Interpretation of aerial photos indicates that this A mesic forest tract near the southern shore of Garden Island boreal forest tract is extensive, Beaver Island (Southwest Old-Growth) was and thus will require further inventory in 1999 initially highlighted from the road due to its to fully characterize, evaluate, and map it. large trees and the presence of mature hemlock.

Garden Peninsula Islands The floristic knowledge of Poverty, broad shelf, grading in some areas to drier, Summer, and Little Summer island was pocket-like glades or moist coastal cedar-fir enhanced considerably through targeted spring thickets. Summer Island is also characterized by surveys. The significance of these islands with the presence of extensive areas of alvar on its respect to their biodiversity can now be more east coast, and has an extensive, dry, alkaline reliably compared to other islands in the north- cliff area in the interior that supports the state ern Lake Michigan region, such as the similar special concern slender cliff-brake (Crypto- island group associated with the Door Peninsula gramma stelleri) but little else. Summer Island in Wisconsin as well as the Beaver Island archi- and Poverty Island both have deer herds, which pelago. Summer Island, the largest island of the undoubtedly have an impact on floristic diver- Garden Peninsula group (891 ha) has 390 sity and composition. The spring flora of documented species, whereas Little Summer Summer Island was observed to be particularly Island (225 ha) has 174 species. Interestingly, low in diversity, which may be due to the pres- Poverty Island, which is only 78 ha in size, has ence of a large white-tail deer herd. Plants that 220 documented plant species. Despite its rela- were observed to be impacted by deer included tively small size, the diversity of Poverty Island orchids, most plants in the lily family (Lilia- is due in part to the presence of extensive areas ceae) such as Indian cucumber (Medeola of alvar, which characterize much of the east virginiana), and twisted stalk (Streptopus and south coasts. Wave-washed areas of amplexifolius), Canada yew (Taxus canadensis), exposed limestone/dolomitic bedrock form a and grasses such as Trisetum melicoides.

Great Lakes Islands - 17 Methods for Natural Community Surveys

Beaver and Garden Islands Primary objectives of the 1998 natural information was also gathered related to signs of community inventory were to determine priority past human disturbance and land-use patterns communities and locate potential high quality immediately adjacent to the site. Insights into examples on Beaver and Garden Islands (Figure 2 future protection and/or management activities and 3). This was accomplished through if apparent during site visits were also recorded reconnaissance surveys by MNFI staff botanists (see Methods for Plant Surveys). Reviews of MNFI’s on field forms. High quality natural communi- statewide Biological and Conservation Database ties were defined according to the MNFI Natural (BCD), maps of historical (Comer et al. 1995b) and Community Classification (MNFI 1989) and current vegetation (MIRIS 1978), and interpretation each natural community occurrence was given a of color infrared (CIR) aerial photos and USGS 7.5 grade based on its relative quality and condition minute topographic maps were also used to refine compared to other known occurrences within target communities and potential locations. the state4. Finally, information from field forms Potential high quality occurrences of target was transcribed and submitted for mapping and natural communities were then visited on the incorporation into the MNFI statewide database. ground. Site visits involved mapping the boundaries of each delineated community occur- 4 “Element occurrence rank”, noted basically as A, B, rence on topographic maps and collecting C, or D, is a natural heritage evaluation of the quality detailed biotic and abiotic data. Data collection of the occurrence; an A-ranked occurrence is included compiling comprehensive plant species considered an exemplary, viable population, whereas lists with notations of relative abundance, D-ranked occurrences are those that are generally describing structural information for the vegeta- small, vulnerable to obvious threats and/or occur in degraded sites, and are not considered to be viable. tion layers in each plant community, and recording information on the landforms and soils that characterized the site. Site-specific

Garden Peninsula Islands Poverty and Summer islands, and to some current study was on enhancing floristic data extent Little Summer Island, have been the rather than targeting natural communities. focus of previous MNFI coastal zone inventories However, any new significant natural commu- for targeted natural communities such as nities that were discovered during the intensive globally rare alvars (Albert et al. 1995). Hence, floristic inventories were noted. the survey focus on these islands during the

Results of Natural Community Surveys

Beaver and Garden Islands Results of natural community surveys Island), 3 records for mesic northern forest (two conducted on Beaver and Garden Islands are on Beaver and one on Garden Island), and single presented in Tables 2 and 3 (see Results of records for northern fen and boreal forest, both Plants Surveys). Ten new natural community on Garden Island. Specific summaries of indi- occurrences representing four types were identi- vidual community occurrences are provided in fied. Natural community occurrences included the site summary section. A general overview five records for open dunes (all on Beaver

Great Lakes Islands - 18 of the community types and their significance to presented in the following discussion section. broad-scale conservation in Michigan is Garden Peninsula Islands Although surveys on the Garden Peninsula ries, one significant new area of alvar at the Islands were primarily focused on plant invento- northern end of Summer Island was discovered.

Discussion of Natural Community Surveys

While a variety of natural communities were its former range in today’s northern hardwood found to occur on both Beaver and Garden forest systems. Thus, although mesic northern Islands, for the first year of this project, inven- forest is a common natural community, it is tory priorities focused on locating, describing, quite rare when found in a structurally intact, and mapping high quality examples of mesic high quality condition. The high quality northern forest, boreal forest, northern fen, and examples of mesic northern forest discovered in open dunes. Mesic northern forests, more this study, particularly on Beaver Island, are of commonly referred to as northern hardwood significant conservation importance to forests, are generally dominated by American Michigan. beech, sugar maple, and in high quality Boreal forests are natural communities of occurrences, often contain a significant the northern latitudes and occur where precipi- component of yellow birch, eastern hemlock, tation greatly exceeds evapotranspiration. On and/or white pine. When mesic northern forests the North American continent, these forests contain a sufficient component of eastern extend from Alaska to Newfoundland. Conifers, hemlock in the overstory, they are commonly primarily white spruce, tamarack, and northern referred to as hemlock/hardwood forests. Mesic white cedar, along with a smaller component of northern forests in presettlement Michigan paper birch and trembling aspen dominate consisted of vast, contiguous tracts with both boreal forests. complex species composition and forest canopy Although this forest type is quite common structure. Natural disturbances were rare and globally, it is considered rare in Michigan, usually of relatively small-scale. Thus, old trees which is often mistakenly thought to be too far dominated forests with scattered younger south to support boreal forests. The cool, moist, individuals growing into forest canopy gaps maritime environment of Michigan’s islands caused by windthrow or the death of individual appears to compensate for southern latitude, and trees. Conifers such as hemlock and white pine one of the finest known occurrences of boreal occurred in groups or as scattered individuals forest in the state was identified on Garden throughout these forests. Further, there was a Island. These forest types are intrinsically diversity of dead trees, both down and standing, important and may also provide habitat for many of various size classes and in various stages of rare plant species in Michigan, including such decomposition. The result was a very complex notable plants as ram’s head lady's-lipper system with a large diversity of habitats and (Cypripedium arietinum, SC) and calypso microhabitats. orchid (Calypso bulbosa, T). Much of today’s mesic northern forest Northern fens, rare both globally and in occurs in small fragmented blocks and lacks the Michigan, are floristically diverse, groundwater structural complexity of presettlement forests. fed peatlands that are most often found along Since most of Michigan’s forests established low slopes, streams, or shoreline where parent following slash fires of the logging era, they materials and bedrock are rich in calcium and tend to be relatively young and even-aged. magnesium. These natural communities, which Additionally, the conifer component, especially in northern Michigan typically occur along hemlock, is conspicuously absent from much of Great Lakes shorelines in the Niagaran Escarp-

Great Lakes Islands - 19 ment region, are usually dominated by a variety and rare plant and animal species, open dunes of grass-like sedges and rushes and provide are among the most significant of Michigan’s habitat for a diverse array of plants and animals, natural features. The islands surveyed during some of which are also very rare. The substrate this part of the project provide some of the best is usually marly, and often consists of an remaining opportunities to view open dunes in admixture of marl and limestone/dolomite an undeveloped, natural condition. cobble. Notable rare species occurring in this Alvar is a Swedish term for a type of community type include butterwort (Pinguicula natural community found on very thin soils over vulgaris, SC), English sundew (Drosera level limestone or dolomite bedrock. The thin anglica, SC), Houghton’s goldenrod (Solidago soil, coupled with extreme seasonal fluctuations houghtonii, T), dwarf lake iris (Iris lacustris, T), in available moisture, prevents trees from and beauty sedge (Carex concinna, SC), among becoming established and maintains an open or many others, including several rare animal glade like condition. Alvar communities species. support distinctive flora and fauna including Fresh water open dune communities are several rare and interesting species (Lee et al. quite rare especially when considered from a 1998). Recent work has demonstrated the global perspective. These grass and shrub-domi- ecological rarity and significance of these nated communities occur on wind-deposited natural communities, both globally and in sand formations along the shores of large, fresh Michigan. Agriculture, forestry, recreation, water lakes and are strongly influenced by lake- residential development, and other human driven winds. Due to intensive development activities have degraded many acres of Alvar. pressure along shorelines of the Great Lakes, Thus, high quality, undisturbed occurrences, open dunes are among the most imperiled natu- such as the one located on summer Island during ral communities in Michigan. In addition to this study, are of significant conservation providing habitat for a large number of endemic importance to Michigan.

Site Summaries

As established in the format of several porated. Sites where bird point counts were previous MNFI reports concerning coastal zone conducted are noted. While a complete analysis inventories, we provide here a summary requires multi-year data, areas rich in bird description of the significant inventory sites. species are highlighted. The intention of this These descriptions are provided primarily for section is to provide a summary of each site in a inventory sites covered by MNFI botanists and relatively brief commentary format that can be ecologists, as we have not attempted to cata- used for meaningful future reference and logue this level of information for all sites consultation. Because sites are likely to be assessed and inventoried during animal surveys considered in a stand-alone sense, we are or during the floristic work conducted on the following our previous protocol of repeating Garden Peninsula group. However, MNFI scientific names for all species referenced in zoologists inventoried several of these sites, and each summary. where necessary, relevant information is incor-

Great Lakes Islands - 20 Beaver Island Sites 1. Lookout Point. Lookout Point comprises a stretch of shore- (Cakile edentula), rock-cress (Arabis lyrata), line on the northeast shore harboring a some- bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), beach pea what small but locally significant area of open (Lathyrus japonicus), and horizontal juniper dunes. These dunes, which also include well- (Juniperus horizontalis), as well occasional developed interdunal wetlands, were identified exotic species such as spotted knapweed as a significant survey gap and subsequently (Centaurea maculosa), soapwort (Saponaria covered during early as well as late season officinalis), and bluegrass (Poa compressa). surveys. East of Lookout Point, the dunes Most exotic species did not appear to be a consist of a narrow foredune abruptly backed by problem, with the exception of spotted knap- forest, expanding to a much broader open dune weed, which was relatively invasive in the community with interdunal wetlands near the sandy-gravelly flats behind and near the Point. Point. West of the Point, the foredunes are Significant populations of Pitcher’s thistle higher, backed by broad, flat, sandy-gravelly (Cirsium pitcheri), Lake Huron tansy (Tanace- dune fields and a few interdunal wetland tum huronense), and Pumpell’s brome grass, in pockets. In one area the dunes grade up to a addition to the open dunes community, were modest blowout below the forested bluff, where catalogued as new occurrences for the statewide Pumpell’s brome grass (Bromus pumpellianus) database. This site was not inventoried for Lake was discovered. Dominant and common species Huron locust (Trimerotropis huroniana), but the include such typical dune plants as dune grasses extent of the open dunes habitat suggests the (Ammophila breviligulata, Calamovilfa longifo- species may be present and thus future survey is lia), milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), sea rocket warranted (see animal discussion section).

2. St James Harbor. Within this largely developed bay, some (Centaurea maculosa), and smooth brome open dune habitat occurs from approximately (Bromus inermis). A well-known population of the public beach to Harbor Point. Portions with the federal and state endangered Michigan low foredune and a limited backdune area, monkey-flower (Mimulus glabratus var. michi- mostly comprising the frontage of residences ganensis) was sought in the south part of the and seasonal homes, still provide habitat for harbor. This species occurred in cold, spring-fed modest populations of Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pools at the base of a low hillside, and was pitcheri) and Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum observed to be extant in 1989 by M. Penskar. huronense). Typical dune species predominate The shoreline hydrology was found to be drasti- on the foredune, including dune grasses (Ammo- cally modified during the construction of a phila breviligulata, Calamovilfa longifolia), residential home, and as reported previously (J. beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), starry false Paskus, pers. comm.), the colony could not be Solomon’s seal (Smilacina stellata), and dune located. Permission should be obtained to do a willows (Salix spp.), although owing to human more thorough survey of this private parcel, activities and artificial disturbance the shoreline although it does seem likely that one of the 15 is somewhat weedy in areas, particularly near known global populations of this Michigan the public beach. Exotic species include soap- endemic has been extirpated. wort (Saponaria officinalis), spotted knapweed

3. Sandy Point North. This site comprises an approximately one- Little Traverse Conservancy. The shoreline mile portion of shoreline south of Little Sand was briefly inventoried from Sandy Point to the Bay, the latter a well-known area including a southern edge of Little Sand Bay, primarily to nature preserve owned and managed by the determine the presence of rare plant species

Great Lakes Islands - 21 likely to continue from the north. In this site, the were conducted just to the north at the Little shoreline consisted of discontinuous and very Traverse Conservancy Nature Preserve. Counts limited stretches of beach and foredune, backed were conducted in old field, lowland cedar, and by abrupt lowland cedar and mixed conifer- shoreline habitats. It is noteworthy that hardwood forest. The dune stretches were swarming insects were observed along the beach interspersed with cobble shore and occasional during the point counts. Emerging aquatic limestone bedrock outcrops and small boulders. insects along the shoreline may provide Small, low-diversity wetlands were found migratory birds a significant food resource in toward the south edge of Little Sand Bay. the spring when terrestrial insects may be Modest numbers of Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium scarce. The cedar, spruce and tamarack trees as pitcheri) and Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum well as various shrubs lining the shoreline may huronense) were documented as extensions to provide an excellent foraging substrate for the well-documented populations in Little Sand neotropical migratory birds feeding on these Bay. Three point counts for migratory birds insects.

4. Sand Bay. Sand Bay consists of an approximately Jordan River mouth, the dunes grade upward to three-mile stretch of shoreline forming a gently a few low- sloping dune rises, where a few open curving, shallow bay from Conns Point south to lots were undeveloped. about Point La Par. This area includes the well- Several thousand plants were estimated for known Central Michigan University Biological both Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron tansy, Station and a long string of residences, many of indicative in part of the collectively extensive which are fairly large seasonal homes. This site and functional nature of the open dunes was identified for inventory based on a nearly community. As is typical, marram or dune grass complete lack of status information for (Ammophila breviligulata) dominated on the previously documented rare plant populations. foredune, with dune grass (Calamovilfa longifo- As we surveyed this shoreline and tallied lia) occurring landward. Typical species population numbers for Pitcher’s thistle included beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), sea (Cirsium pitcheri) and Lake Huron tansy rocket (Cakile edentula), milkweed (Asclepias (Tanacetum huronense), we realized the open syriaca), rock-cress (Arabis lyrata), euphorbia dunes community was contiguous and intact for (Euphorbia polygonifolia), poison ivy (Toxi- a considerable portion of the shore, thus codendron radicans), starry false Solomon’s warranting recognition as a natural community seal (Smilacina stellata), horizontal juniper occurrence. The dunes were found to consist of (Juniperus horizontalis), and ground juniper a relatively broad, well-developed foredune (Juniper communis). Exotics included soapwort backed by a band of mostly flat backdunes (Saponaria officinalis), smooth brome (Bromus between the foredunes and most homes. inermis), bluegrass (Poa compressa), and Although there is extensive development in this spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), with area, artificial disturbance by landowners in the latter observed to be somewhat invasive in many cases was minimal, with the alteration of backdune areas. One point count for migratory dune frontage consisting of little more than birds was conducted at the south edge of Sand modest paths to the beach. Several had day use Bay near the state forest campground just north areas, but the general level of disturbance in of Point La Par. many areas was fairly limited. South of the

5. Cable Bay. This site was identified primarily to gather Huron tansy (Tanacetum huronense). The dunes status information for known populations of were found to be of good quality and extensive Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) and Lake enough to merit documentation. In the upper, or

Great Lakes Islands - 22 northeast portion of Cable Bay, where public dune willows (Salix exigua, S. cordata), jack land provides access to the upper part of the pine (Pinus banksiana), northern white cedar bay, the dunes grade relatively high in (Thuja occidentalis), euphorbia (Euphorbia topography, with one parabolic-like blowout polygonifolia), and starry false Solomon’s seal area. Moderately-sized populations of Pitcher’s (Smilacina stellata). No particularly invasive thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) and Lake Huron tansy exotics were observed. Animal surveys resulted (Tanacetum huronense) were observed, as well in the documentation of a large population of as a standard assemblage of dune species, Lake Huron locust (Trimerotropis huroniana) in including marram grass and dune grass the open sandy dunes and blowouts. Two point (Ammophila breviligulata, Calamovilfa counts were conducted for migratory birds, one longifolia), beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), sea in the open dunes and the other in the adjacent rocket (Cakile edentula), horizontal juniper interior forest. Both areas contain a fairly (Juniperus horizontalis), hairy puccoon complex vegetational structure and were rich in (Lithospermum caroliniense), milkweed bird species. The state threatened merlin (Falco (Asclepias syriaca), ground juniper (J. columbarius) was observed hunting prey along communis), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radi- the forested edge of the open dune area. cans), little bluestem (Andropogon scoparius),

6. Lake Geneserath Hemlock Stand. A small stand of old-growth Eastern hemlock band of cedar which separates the hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) was found along the south- stand from Lake Geneserath. Both Eastern west shore of Lake Geneserath. The one acre hemlock and Canada yew are heavily browsed stand is located on gently sloping terrain with by white-tailed deer, which is likely the cause of exaggerated pit-and-mound topography. The their scarcity in the forest understory. No forest canopy is dominated by hemlock with hemlock seedlings or saplings were observed lesser amounts of yellow birch (Betula within the stand or elsewhere on the island. alleghaniensis), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), Because the site is privately owned and borders and American beech (Fagus grandifolia). Sugar Lake Geneserath, it is a prime development site. maple dominates the sub-canopy, shrub layer, Within this general area, a point count for and groundlayer. Other common shrub and migratory birds was conducted along the south ground layer species included balsam fir (Abies shore of the lake, in a different habitat domi- balsamea), striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum), nated by cedar, birch and maple. This site is ground-pine (Lycopodium sp.) and wild sarsapa- notable in that ten different bird species were rilla (Aralia nudicaulis). Canada yew (Taxa recorded during the short interval of the point canadensis) was found growing well protected count. under a large blowdown tangle within the thin

7. Iron Ore Bay. A relatively extensive region of shoreline the higher areas. Behind the public beach and dunes occurs in the vicinity of the mouth of Iron foredune the coastal road runs through the lower Ore Creek, ranging from about 0.5 miles west of portion of the dunes, where it is signed as a the creek mouth to more than one mile east. The Public Beauty Road. The site is scenic but the gated, private portion in section 20, west of Iron road clearly fragments the dunes. The foredune Ore Bay proper, was not surveyed. The dunes is dominated by the pioneering marram grass near Iron Ore Creek are of good quality, (Ammophila breviligulata), with dune grass consisting of a well-developed, relatively high (Calamovilfa longifolia), as is typical, occurring foredune grading back into moderately steep primarily throughout the backdunes. Known dune hills, where there is some fragmentation populations of Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum due to the development of private residences on huronense) and Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium

Great Lakes Islands - 23 pitcheri) were surveyed to obtain status and species last observed at this site in 1958, was population information; both species were sought during early and late summer field scattered through the dunes, with tansy surveys but could not be relocated. However, occurring principally along the foredune areas. wormwood, the obligate host plant of the Virtually no status information was known parasitic broom-rape, is common in the Iron Ore for these rarities prior to our survey. An Bay dunes, and thus it is likely that Orobanche exemplary assemblage of dune species was persists within this still intact dune community. present, including wormwood (Artemisia During animal surveys, a population of Lake campestris), milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), Huron locust (Trimerotropis huroniana) was horizontal juniper (Juniperus horizontalis), documented in Iron Ore Bay and in section 20 to bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), jack pine the east. In addition, point counts for birds were (Pinus banksiana), white cedar (Thuja occiden- conducted in forested habitat along Iron Ore talis), white camas (Zigadenus glaucus), dune Bay Creek and in the open dune community willows (Salix cordata, S. myricoides), and north of Iron Ore Bay. A pair of merlins (Falco hairy puccoon (Lithospermum caroliniense). A columbarius) were observed perched in pine known population of the rare fascicled broom- trees just 100 meters from the shore on two rape (Orobanche fasciculata), an obscure different occasions.

8. Southwest Old-Growth. When MNFI botanists conducted distinct from the surrounding matrix forest reconnaissance in late June for potential natural community. The stand is dominated by sugar community occurrences, this interior mesic maple (Acer saccharum) and yellow birch forest stand was identified as having old-growth (Betula alleghaniensis), and contains several characteristics. Several individual trees were large Eastern hemlocks. One sugar maple observed as rather large in both stature and measured 99 cm in DBH, with several other diameter at breast height (DBH), and the forest trees approaching this size. Additional species contained a significant Eastern hemlock (Tsuga included American beech (Fagus grandifolia), canadensis) component. The occurrence of large paper birch (Betula papyrifera), and several hemlocks is particularly noteworthy, as this examples of large red maple (Acer rubrum). The species was once common throughout northern several large paper birch trees present are Michigan but because of high deer densities indicative of a disturbance regime that results in often fails to regenerate. The site was more canopy gaps due to blowdowns, creating not thoroughly assessed with MNFI staff ecologists only marked canopy gaps but also a structure of during late season surveys, resulting in the pit-and-mound microtopography on the forest identification of an approximately 20-30 acre floor, a typical feature of mesic northern forests. stand of high quality northern mesic forest

9. Cheyenne Point. This site spans several coves and sand spits Clusters of colorful herbs such as Kalm's lobelia along the southwest shoreline of Beaver Island (Lobelia kalmii), Arkansas mint (Calamintha just west of Iron Ore Bay. It is comprised of a arkansana), purple gerardia (Agalinis narrow fringe of mostly cobble beach with purpurea), and Indian paintbrush (Castilleja numerous emergent/northern fen wetlands. coccinea) occur along the edges of the larger Emergent grass and sedge species such as wetlands and in shallow depressions along the hardstem bulrush (Scirpus acutus), three-square cobble beach. Four small clusters of Pitcher’s bulrush (S. americanus), twig-rush (Cladium thistle (Cirisum pitcheri), consisting of only a mariscoides), rush (Juncus brachycephalus) and few individuals each were noted in sandy bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis inexpansa) in pockets along this stretch of shoreline. standing water characterize the wetlands. Associates included typical dune species such as

Great Lakes Islands - 24 creeping and ground juniper (Juniperis hori- breviligulata), wild rye (Elymus glaucus), and zontalis, J. communis), balsam poplar (Populus wheat grass (Agropyron dasystachyum). balsamifera), marram grass (Ammophila 10. French Bay. Accessed by foot trail, this site consists of a backed abruptly by the coastal forest. Status small distinct bay on the lower southwest shore information was obtained for previously of the island. Most of the immediate bay area is documented populations of Pitcher’s thistle contained within state forest land, and the site is (Cirsium pitcheri), Lake Huron tansy well-known locally for its scenic aspect and (Tanacetum huronense), and dwarf lake iris (Iris relatively secluded shoreline location. The bay lacustris). Pitcher’s thistle and tansy occurred in forms the leading edge of a former post-glacial modest numbers along the limited habitat on the embayment. Approximately 0.25 east is a shore, whereas dwarf lake iris was restricted to marked, post-glacial ridge. Between this the shaded, moist coastal conifer forest, where it Algonquin-age ridge and the shore, the land occurred in small to moderately-sized patches slopes downward over a series of successively primarily in close proximity to the shore. lower beach ridges, grading from northern Additional areas beyond those previously hardwood forest to mixed hardwood conifer known were recorded for dwarf lake iris, forest and ultimately to a coastal conifer forest extending the range of the occurrence slightly to consisting of northern white cedar (Thuja the north. One point count for migratory birds occidentalis), balsam fir (Abies balsamea), and was conducted near French Bay Road, approxi- white spruce (Picea glauca). The cobbly-sandy mately 0.5 miles east of the immediate shore. beach within the bay is relatively narrow and

11. Greenes Bay – McFadden Point. This site contains one of the highest quality was observed on the foredune but also was sand dune systems occurring on Beaver Island, found frequently throughout the open dunes, comprising perhaps the most intact and least whereas Lake Huron tansy tended to occur fragmented example of open dunes. The site along the foredune and in general closer to the includes large blowout areas, well-developed shore. A previously documented population of topography and relatively high dune hills, and fascicled broom-rape (Orobanche fasciculata) areas that are also densely forested. This site is last observed in 1958 was sought but not rivaled somewhat by the large dunes associated relocated, although this obscure species likely with Donegal Bay. However, the latter site is persists in this large dune complex. highly fragmented with numerous residences Landward the dunes form a broad, open, and lacks the broad expanse of dune fields and slightly undulating dune field, with many blowouts that remain in this site. The broadest portions having a considerable amount of cobble expanse of open dunes occurs in the middle of strewn in the sand. The northern portion of the section 25 just below McFadden Point. The dunes near the point are platted for sale by real shoreline is fronted by a relatively high, well- estate companies, and there is local disturbance developed foredune and broad beach strand. The in this area by vehicles straying from the current foredune is dominated by marram grass (Ammo- entry road, possibly including off-road-vehicle phila breviligulata), and includes such species (ORV) use. This is the most disturbed portion of as sea rocket (Cakile edentula), milkweed the open dunes, as evidenced by the presence of (Asclepias syriaca), dune willows (Salix such exotics as spotted knapweed (Centaurea cordata, Salix myricoides), agropyron (Agropy- maculosa) and bladder campion (Silene ron dasystachyum), beach pea (Lathyrus japoni- vulgaris). The backdune areas are typified by a cus), sand cherry (Prunus pumila), and occa- standard assemblage of dune plants such as little sional clones of Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum bluestem (Andropogon scoparius), which forms huronense). Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) large patches, horizontal juniper (Juniperus

Great Lakes Islands - 25 horizontalis), ground juniper (Juniperus During animal surveys, a large population of communis), wormwood (Artemisia campestris), Lake Huron locust (Trimerotropis huroniana) hairy puccoon (Lithospermum caroliniense), was documented on the open dunes near white camas (Zigadenus glaucus), bearberry McFadden Point. Large patches of little (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), jack pine (Pinus bluestem were swept for red-legged spittlebug banksiana), northern white cedar (Thuja occi- (Prosapia ignipectus), which was not found, and dentalis) and numerous other typical species. blacklighting was conducted in this same area in The dune field grades to relatively high dune an unsuccessful attempt to detect the aweme hills with parabolic blowouts, and the adjoining borer moth (Papaipema aweme), a very rare forest forms an abrupt boundary along the moth previously documented in dunes on border. In the southern portion of Greenes Bay Beaver Island. During late August surveys, in section 36, the dunes narrow markedly to a merlins (Falco columbarius) were observed near broad beach strand and foredune, backed by a McFadden Point, although it was not known if limited area of open dunes bordered by forest they represented nesting birds or merely fall and interspersed with seasonal homes. The migrants. Greenes Bay is a documented site for intactness of this high quality dune system is the federal and state endangered piping plover threatened by what appears to be imminent (Charadrius melodus), and although suitable development near McFadden Point. As noted habitat appears to exist, the species has not been above, much of the private portion has been observed at this site since 1988. Lastly, three platted for sale and eventual residential devel- point counts for migratory birds were conducted opment, and this will undoubtedly lead to in the general vicinity of Greenes Bay, one just further degradation of this dune landscape, both north of McFadden Point and the others in through the direct effects of habitat modification section 36 and the adjoining section 31. and indirect effects caused by the further intro- duction of exotic species.

12. Fox Lake. With the exception of a small public access and creeping spearwort (Ranunculus reptans). site for boat launching, this site is contained In addition, approximately one-half of the within private land. This pothole lake is shoreline of the lake was searched for snail relatively shallow, sandy-bottomed, and ringed shells to determine the possible presence of the with a mostly narrow sandy beach whose width deepwater pondsnail (Stagnicola contractus), a fluctuates markedly with changes in lake level. species documented at this site in 1939. The entire western and southern shores were Although surveys of the shoreline failed to searched for a known population of water detect any snail shells whatsoever, this limited plantain (Littorella uniflora) last observed when inventory is inconclusive at best, and further it was collected in 1980. This species was work with the appropriate deepwater sampling readily relocated just south of the public boat will be required to ascertain the status of this access, where the receding sandy shoreline rare invertebrate. A large open bog occurrence revealed locally dense colonies of plants. Asso- contiguous with the northeast shore of the lake ciated plants included those typical of softwater was not prioritized for survey and thus not lake habitats, such as water-milfoil (Myriophyl- covered, although this community may be lum tenellum), rush (Juncus pelocarpus), lance- scheduled for assessment in 1999. One point leaved violet (Viola lanceolata), arrowhead count for migratory birds was conducted along (Sagittaria sp.), bulrush (Scirpus americanus), the northern shore of the lake.

Great Lakes Islands - 26 13. Lefts Point. North of the high quality dune complex at compressa), spotted knapweed (Centaurea McFadden Point, the foredune constricts to a maculosa) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium) narrow shoreline band consisting of a mixture of were common in several areas along this stretch. cobble and sand beach with occasional pockets A northern fen occurs on Left’s Point itself, of northern fen. This mile or so stretch of dominated by grass and sedge species such as shoreline that extends approximately ½ mile twig-rush (Cladium mariscoides), sedge (Carex north and south of Left’s Point contains three aquatilis), bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis inex- clusters each of Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron pansa), hardstem bulrush (Scirpus acutus), and tansy. For the most part these clusters are rather rushes (Juncus balticus and J. brachycephalus). sparsely populated, reaching their greatest Illustrative of the diversity of this community density of 50 or so individuals just south of were the numerous herbaceous species in flower Left’s point where the greatest extent of sandy during the time of survey. These included small foredune occurs. Common associates include fringed gentian, (Gentianopsis procera), cardi- typical dune species such as marram grass nal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Kalm’s lobelia (Ammophila breviligulata), wheat grass (L. kalmii), ladies’-tress orchids (Spiranthes sp.) (Agropyron dasystachyum), and wormwood and grass-of-Parnassus (Parnassia glauca). One (Artemisia campestris). Exotic species such as point count for migratory birds was conducted soapwort (Saponaria officinalis), bluegrass (Poa along the road just inland from the point.

14. Bonners Landing. This site extends along several miles of the west (Saponaria officinalis), yarrow (Achillea shore of Beaver Island just south of Barneys millefolium), and bluejoint (Poa compressa) Lake. It continues from Left’s point to the south have a significant presence. The wetter portions as a narrow shoreline band consisting primarily of the shoreline included species typical of of cobble and sand beach, interspersed with northern fens and interdunal wetlands, such as occasional emergent marsh and northern fen purple gerardia (Agalinis purpurea), silverweed communities. In this region, it encompasses (Potentilla anserina), rush (Juncus balticus), numerous small coves and rocky spits that gentian (Gentianopsis procera), Kalm’s lobelia extend out into the lake and is dotted with well (Lobelia kalmii), and grass-leaved goldenrod set-back private cottages. Species typical of (Euthamia graminifolia). To the north, the site open dunes dominate the sandy portions of the gradually widens to a broad sandy foredune just site including such species as ground juniper west of Slop Town Road, where it is popularly and horizontal juniper (Juniperus communis and known as Bonners Landing, a relatively J. horizontalis), marram grass (Ammophila secluded beach and picnic site. Only the breviligulata), Canada rye grass (Elymus southern portion of the sandy foredune area was canadensis), agropyron (Agropyron explored and Pitcher’s thistle was found to be dasystachyum), wormwood (Artemisia fairly abundant while Lake Huron tansy, campestris), and goldenrod (Solidago simplex although not abundant, was more common than var. gillmanii). Several clusters of Pitcher’s further south. The open dune continues thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) and a single cluster of northward eventually merging with an extensive Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum huronense) were forested dune complex. This area will be a found scattered in the sandier coves, thus priority for 1999 survey work. In addition to increasing the southward extent of previously assessing the status of the thistle and tansy known occurrences from this site. However, populations, attempts will be made to relocate along much of the more rocky and narrower and assess an occurrence of Pumpell’s brome regions, exotic species such as soapwort grass that was documented in 1958.

Great Lakes Islands - 27 15. Barneys Lake. The north shore of this lake was surveyed coccinea), and groundwater seeps and springs briefly to detect the presence of any shells of were observed. The shoreline was also unsuc- deepwater pondsnail (Stagnicola contractus), cessfully surveyed for a rare buttercup (Ranun- which was documented and last observed here culus cymbalaria) last observed here when it in 1940. A small portion of the northern shore was first documented in 1957. Because of the was inventoried by MNFI botany staff, who brief nature of the aforementioned surveys, collected several snail shells for assessment by further inventories are warranted for both the staff zoologists and other experts. Numerous deepwater pondsnail and the rare buttercup in snail shells were found, and this lake was 1999 to determine their status. During an early observed to be markedly different from Fox evening survey of the Barneys Lake Nature Lake, with its mucky-peaty substrate and several Preserve along the shore, in old field habitat and indications of more alkaline conditions. No in an orchard, zoologists recorded thirteen bird specimens of deepwater pondsnail were species including the state threatened caspian confirmed from the snail shells obtained. tern (Sterna caspia) which was observed fishing Portions of the northern shore supported fen in the lake. species, such as Indian paintbrush (Castilleja

16. Donegal Bay - McCauley Point. The Donegal Bay area has one of the McCauley Point resulted in the documentation island’s largest dune complexes, yet the site is of a new occurrence of the Lake Huron locust highly fragmented with numerous homes and (Trimerotropis huroniana). Large patches of cottages scattered throughout. Little of the little bluestem were swept for red-legged accessible areas were inventoried, although spittlebug (Prosapia ignipectus), which was not several of the site’s well known rare species found, and blacklighting was conducted in this were observed, including Pitcher’s thistle same area in an unsuccessful attempt to detect (Cirsium pitcheri) and Lake Huron tansy the aweme borer moth (Papaipema aweme), a (Tanacetum huronense). These species appear very rare moth previously documented in sand to persist well in the intact local stretches of dunes on Beaver Island. Two migratory bird dunes, which are known to support several other counts were conducted just inland from rarities, including Pumpell’s brome grass McCauley Point in mature beech-maple habitat. (Bromus pumpellianus), fascicled broom-rape A new occurrence of the Lake Huron locust was (Orobanche fasciculata), butterwort (Pinguicula also documented in the Mt. Pisgah and Donegal vulgaris), and Houghton’s goldenrod (Solidago Bay Park areas, which both contain back dunes houghtonii). Several interdunal depressions and that finger up and grade into mixed northern low flats were investigated for Houghton’s forest. Blacklighting surveys did not detect the goldenrod. Although good habitat was present, rare aweme borer moth in the vicinity of Mt. only the related, common Ohio goldenrod Pisgah. (Solidago ohioensis) was observed. A large vigorous colony of butterwort was observed in an interdunal area. Animal surveys at

17. Indian Point. From the north end of Donegal Bay, the such species as Ohio goldenrod (Solidago shoreline contains locally extensive interdunal ohioensis), grass-leaved goldenrod (Euthamia wetlands and flats, which are dominated graminifolia), sedge (Carex viridula), three- primarily by herbaceous plants, including square (Scirpus americanus), butterwort several rush (Juncus) and sedge (Carex, (Pinguicula vulgaris), and nodding ladies’-tress Scirpus) species. The wet sand flats include orchid (Spiranthes cernua). Further north the

Great Lakes Islands - 28 shoreline grades into broad areas of cobble conifer species. The sandy openings near the shore with marshy flats. There were occasional Point were also found to be relatively weedy, short stretches of sand dune, that despite their with most invaded by spotted knapweed limited extent and occasionally weedy nature (Centaurea maculosa). East of the Point, the were observed to support small colonies of shoreline becomes very narrow and limited, Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) and Lake consisting of a cobbly-sandy shore backed Huron tansy (Tanacetum huronense). Tansy abruptly by forest. Animal surveys for the Lake was also observed occasionally growing on Huron locust (Trimerotropis huroniana) were cobble shores, which is not atypical. Just south unsuccessful in documenting the species in this of Indian Point there are small openings with area. Further surveys are needed to determine Great Lakes barrens vegetation, with such whether they occur here. Two point counts for species as ground juniper (Juniperus commu- migratory birds were conducted in the vicinity nis), bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), of the point. horizontal juniper (J. horizontalis), and various

Garden Island sites 1. Garden Island West Boreal Forest. An extensive (approximately 600 acre) tract (Cornus rugosa), and American fly honeysuckle of boreal forest was located along the western (Lonicera canadensis). The understory, sparse shore of Garden Island on shallow organic soil with extensive areas of exposed soil and duff, over limestone cobble (Figure 3). The natural included creeping rattlesnake plaintain (Good- community was characterized by well developed yera repens), Menzies’ rattlesnake plantain (G. pit-and-mound microtopography and single and oblongifolia), twin flower (Linnaea borealis), group tree windthrow; characteristics indicative goldthread (Coptis trifolia), large round-leaved of mature forest with the natural disturbance orchid (Platanthera orbiculata), blue-bead lily regime intact. Overstory species were predomi- (Clintonia borealis), and various species of nantly northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) Violets (Viola sp.) and sedges (Carex sp.). No and white spruce (Picea glauca) with lesser but human disturbance, e.g. timber harvests, stumps, significant amounts of balsam fir (Abies trails, or other clearings, was noted within the balsamea), paper birch (Betula papyrifera), and forest. This site is among the largest and highest balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera). The quality tracts of boreal forest described in forest sub-canopy, generally sparse but dense Michigan to date. Further, there is some chance locally, was dominated by balsam fir with lesser that several rare orchids, including ram’s head amounts of white cedar and white ash (Fraxinus lady’s slipper (Cypripedium arietinum) and americana). Shrub layer species included calypso orchid (Calypso bulbosa), may occur mountain maple (Acer spicatum), beaked hazel- within this natural community. nut (Corylus cornuta), round-leaved dogwood

2. Red Oak Garden. A forested track of mature red oak (Quercus americana) reaching the canopy. It is likely that rubra) occurs within southern portions of the the native people inhabiting Garden Island in islands interior forest. The site is included here presettlement times regularly burned this area to because of its significance as a possible artifact keep it open for agriculture, berry picking, and of presettlement Native American land use. The hunting. Because of its ability to persist in a General Land Office surveyors of the mid shrub-like condition where fires are common, 1800’s noted this area as having been “cleared red oak rapidly assumed dominance at this site by fire” and “burned”. Today the site is once Native American land use patterns completely dominated by large red oaks with changed. However, sugar maple, the dominant few sugar maples and white ash (Fraxinus species throughout the islands’ mesic forests

Great Lakes Islands - 29 will soon regain its place in this sites canopy as (Corylus americana), a fire-adapted shrub. it currently dominates the forest’s understory. Common groundlayer species include wild Other common understory species include sarsaparilla, sedges (Carex pensylvanica & C. ironwood (Ostrya virginiana), and hazelnut pedunculata), and sugar maple. 3. Sweat lodge swale. A small, high quality northern fen occurs (Carex viridula & C. flava) and false asphodel approximately 30 meters inland from the islands (Tofieldia glutinosa). In contrast the western northwest shore. The swale is bordered by an portion of the fen was dominated by sedge extensive boreal forest to the south and a thin (principally Carex lasiocarpa) and contained band of cedar glade separating the northern fen little plant species diversity. Within the from Lake Michigan. The long, narrow fen is limestone rich cedar glade to the north of the distinctly different at each end. The marly, swale several Native American, traditional eastern portion of the fen contains a diverse sweat lodges have been erected and although array of calcium loving species including empty, were in good repair. The sandy and lime- English sundew (Drosera anglica) and stone cobble shoreline bordering the cedar glade butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris), both species contained several dozen, scattered Pitcher’s of special concern, Ohio goldenrod (Solidago thistle (Cirsium pitcheri), constituting a small ohioensis) Kalm’s lobelia (Lobelia kalmii), new occurrence for the island. grass-of-Parnassus (Parnassia glauca), sedges

Preliminary Identification of Significant Biodiversity Areas

Beaver and Garden Islands The first year of inventory on Beaver Island (Solidago houghtonii), the state and federal resulted in the identification of significant threatened dwarf lake iris (Iris lacustris), the shoreline areas, consisting primarily of coastal federal and state endangered Michigan monkey- sand dune communities providing important flower (Mimulus glabratus var. michiganensis) habitat for several Great Lakes endemics and the federal and state endangered piping plover other rarities. Notable species observed (Charadrius melodus), the state special concern included the federal and state threatened aweme borer moth (Papaipema aweme), the Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri), the state state threatened fascicled broom-rape threatened Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum (Orobanche fasciculata), and communities such huronense), the state threatened Lake Huron as boreal forest. Thus, Beaver’s shorelines locust (Trimerotropis huroniana), and the state clearly harbor the majority of the biodiversity threatened Pumpell’s brome grass (Bromus for the island. The coastal areas also support pumpellianus). In addition, a number of these the vast majority of the island’s globally signifi- dune systems were recognized and documented cant species and communities. In the interior, as high quality natural communities for the important habitats observed included Barneys MNFI statewide database, including Greenes Lake and Fox Lake, which deserve further Bay – McFadden Point, Cable Bay, Iron Ore investigation for selected rare species and Bay, Lookout Point, and Sand Bay. No open natural communities, especially the state threat- dunes community types were recognized on the ened deepwater pondsnail (Stagnicola contrac- island prior to our survey. Several of these sites tus). Several forested areas, which will receive also have well-known records for previously further attention in 1999, were identified as documented natural features, which in addition significant with regard to migratory songbirds. to the above include such species as the federal In particular, forested areas bordering shorelines and state threatened Houghton’s goldenrod with narrow cobble beaches may serve to

Great Lakes Islands - 30 concentrate migratory birds that feed on swarms portion of the island, which will be examined in of emerging aquatic insects in the spring. 1999. A small but interesting mesic northern Finally, a highly significant old-growth remnant forest tract was observed to be co-dominated by of mesic northern forest was identified near the red oak, and may be an artifact of an abandoned southern shore. This indicates the potential for Native American agricultural site, similar to delineating other remnants of this type else- those found in this region on the mainland where on the island and in the Beaver archipel- (Albert & Minc 1987). The large region of ago, and provides a signature that will assist in boreal forest delineated over much of the north- the recognition and of such important tracts. ern portion of the island may be one of the most Despite only cursory surveys on Garden extensive and highest quality examples of its Island, significant natural communities were type. All three of these areas will be highlighted identified. These include a small but diverse for more detailed field investigation in 1999. A northern fen on the north shore of the island, a rich assemblage of bird species was recorded mesic forest tract in the southern portion of the during spring surveys, reflecting the diversity of island, and an extremely large, exemplary occur- habitats present on the island. Future work will rence of boreal forest comprising much of the attempt to define those habitats most critical to northern half of the island. Identification of the migrating birds and determine which birds northern fen indicates that this community may remain to set up territories and nest. occur in more extensive areas on the southern

Garden Peninsula Islands

Poverty Island, where natural communities diversity mesic forests characterize the interior were well documented during bedrock shoreline of the island. A large outcrop of limestone surveys (Albert et al. 1995), is known to support bedrock forms a low cliff in the southern portion significant natural communities and several rare of the island, supporting a large colony of the plant species. The species, consisting of the state special concern slender cliff-brake (Cryp- federal and state threatened dwarf lake iris, the tograma stelleri), a species not known from state special concern Richardson’s sedge (Carex adjacent islands. richardsonii) and the state special concern Little Summer Island was found to be beauty sedge (Carex concinna), were all found undergoing locally extensive land clearing due in association with a globally rare alvar commu- to construction of a small aircraft landing strip. nity comprising most of the eastern shore of the However, a large colony of the state special island. A high quality boreal forest dominates concern climbing fumitory (Adlumia fungosa) the interior. The entire island comprises a and a small colony of the federal and state significant biodiversity site. threatened dwarf lake iris were newly docu- Summer Island, the largest of the Garden mented along the boundary of state forest land. Peninsula group, is notable for its extensive east A small but significant example of mesic forest shoreline of a globally rare alvar community, was found within a block of state forest land, which also supports the same set of species where numerous mesic forest species not noted above for Poverty Island, albeit in collec- observed on the nearby and significantly larger tively larger populations. An area of alvar not Summer Island were documented. In addition, a identified during 1995 bedrock shore surveys possible high quality example of a coastal was discovered along the northwest shore, wetland community type (rich conifer where additional colonies of dwarf lake iris and swamp/northern fen) was identified along the beauty sedge were also found. Relatively low east shore of the island.

Great Lakes Islands - 31 Projected Island Work for 1999

Natural community surveys Animal surveys Within the Beaver Island archipelago, Within the Beaver Island archipelago, Beaver and Garden islands are targeted for the Beaver and Garden islands have been prioritized completion of inventory, including detailed for migratory as well as breeding bird surveys. aerial photo interpretation prior to field surveys. These islands will also be inventoried to High and Hog islands are potential priority sites complete insect inventories, including the and may be visited in 1999, pending the ability examination of coastal sites for Lake Huron to incorporate these islands into the field locust (Trimerotropis huroniana), with another schedule. Bois Blanc Island in northern Lake attempt to black-light and more definitively Huron is a priority site for the assessing the assess the status of the very rare aweme borer extent and condition of old-growth forest and moth (Papaipema aweme). North or South Fox additional communities. For the Garden island may be accessed for migratory bird Peninsula group, Poverty, Summer, and Little surveys, pending access. Bois Blanc Island has Summer islands (and possibly St. Martin Island) been prioritized for surveys for migratory and will be evaluated for inventory work, including breeding birds, insects, and possibly massasauga community sampling and floristic survey. rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenetus catenatus). Botanical surveys Drummond Island is prioritized for breeding bird surveys. Beaver and Garden islands are targeted for the completion of shoreline surveys and selected Aquatic surveys interior communities for priority plant species. Aquatic zoology investigations, not Surveys will continue to highlight Great Lakes conceptualized in the original workplan, will be endemics, occurrences for which poor data implemented to study the status of fish, mollusk, exist, and markedly dated to historical records. and benthic organisms via exploratory surveys. Where possible, inventory will be coordinated Initial focus areas will include Beaver and with staff ecologists to assist in community Garden islands, with the potential to expand this identification and lessen the need for multiple or work to northern Lake Huron and possibly the separate surveys. Bois Blanc Island may be Garden Peninsula chain as resources permit. visited to conduct reconnaissance with ecolo- Landowner contact gists. In the Les Cheneaux Islands, Marquette Landowner contact will be implemented to and the La Salle islands are targeted for spring initiate the conservation planning phase of the surveys as access is permitted via private land- project. This will consist of organizing focus owners. For Drummond Island, the poorly groups and other island stakeholders to deter- surveyed eastern shore has been identified for mine the most effective methods for dissemi- spring reconnaissance for possible alvar and nating and employing natural features informa- limestone cliff habitats. tion. For 1999, this effort will take place on Beaver Island.

Great Lakes Islands - 32 Sugar maple blowdown in Southwest Old-growth, showing formation of tip- up mound, Beaver Island.

Mature sugar maple in Southwest Old-growth, Beaver Island.

Forest perspective of largest sugar maple in Southwest Old-growth, Beaver Island.

Great Lakes Islands - 33 Cobble shore and storm beach ridge on north shore of Garden Island.

Cobble glade near Sweat Lodge Swale,

Cobble glade near Sweat Lodge Swale, with Native American sweat lodge in distant background.

Colony of common twayblade (Listera) orchids growing in cold spring of cedar swamp, Beaver Island.

Great Lakes Islands - 34 Acknowledgements

Dr. Michael Hamas of Central Michigan island caretaker, provided transportation to University (CMU), Dr. James Gillingham, Poverty, Summer, and Little Summer islands. director of the CMU Biological Station on Cathie Cunningham, our CZM project officer Beaver Island, and local birdwatchers Irmgard and unflagging supporter, provided astute Neils, Donna Hardenberg and Marilyn Reed assistance and advice throughout this project, who live on Beaver Island, were consulted in and we look forward to her ongoing selecting areas and in targeting the most appro- collaboration as this significant work continues. priate time period to conduct surveys for We tender special thanks and appreciation to migratory birds. Snail shells were identified by MNFI Director Judy Soule, who authored a Dr. Jack Burch, (Curator, University of seminal guiding document, Biodiversity of Michigan Museum of Zoology, Mollusc Michigan’s Great Lakes Islands (1993), and Division). We would like to thank Theresa and remains involved in all aspects of this project, Larry Larain of Larain Lodge for providing from administrative to biological. Guidance in excellent lodging to a diverse group of field natural community reconnaissance and surveys biologists, and also for kindly assisting us in was provided by MNFI program ecologist making contacts around Beaver Island that Dennis Albert; animal inventory efforts were greatly aided our work. In addition, we appreci- coordinated by MNFI program zoologist Mary ate the great food and lodging provided by CMU Rabe. Data processing, assistance in report Biological Station and the generous loan of a production, and related efforts were provided by vehicle to our spring survey team. We are Janet Hayward, MNFI assistant information indebted to Beaver Island resident Dan Higdon manager, and Lyn Scrimger, MNFI information of Island Hopper charters, Inc., who ably trans- manager. Last, but certainly by no means least, ported us to Garden Island, provided a consider- we thank Sue Ridge and Laraine Reynolds, able amount of helpful information and maps, MNFI Director of Administration and Adminis- and also looked out for our well-being as we trative Assistant, respectively, who provided explored, camped, and conducted our work on help in the countless ways we are so accustomed Garden Island. Pat Ranguette, a fisherman from to that aid immeasurably in planning and Fairport on the Garden Peninsula and local conducting field work and preparing our report.

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Great Lakes Islands - 38