Page 17 - Genesee County

DISCOVER THE

BERGEN SWAMP

A RARE NATURAL LANDMARK BERGEN SWAMP

G 6646 Hessenthaler Rd.
enesee County is fortunate to be home to an incredibly unique preserve,
Byron, NY 14422
the Bergen Swamp. The 2,000-acres are remnant of the ancient glacial Lake 585-548-7304
Tonawanda, and New York State’s first National Natural Landmark. The swamp BergenSwamp.org
includes northern white cedar, pine-hemlock, and beech-maple deciduous Hours:
forests, and supports a high diversity of plants. In fact, 2,392 species have been Individual or group visits can
identified—but the swamp is especially known for its orchids. It’s also rich in be arranged by contacting the
breeding birds and has a variety of species that don't breed elsewhere in the caretaker, or by joining a
Lake Ontario plain, making it a treasure trove for birders. This habitat is unique guided-tour at one of their
upcoming events
in New York State and uncommon nationally, with many of the plants rare or
endangered. For this reason, visitors are required to stay on the hiking trails
that take you through and around the swamp. Groups of six or more require
advance approval. Guided tours are offered a few times a year, by advance
reservation only.
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