Habitat
Decomposition Area
Goal: To showcase the decomposition process away from mammals, such as raccoons and squirrels, that often pull apart rotting logs to find food. Students can study the decomposition process happen and compare changes on this accessible rooftop. Several species of trees act as nurse logs to many other species, including a host of mushrooms, lichens,...
Forest Floor
Goal: This area was created to mimic the forest floor of Mount Royal. Rocks, decomposing logs, ferns, and shade-loving plants were planted here. A layer of leaves is added every fall to mimic the process in the forests. Maintenance: Weekly check for any garbage or damage聽 Snip all Goutweed any time it is noticed and...
Meadow
Goal: This island within the parking lot was once a lawn that was maintained by the landscape contractors. It is meant to demonstrate a small area that has no woody plants other than the large tree at its center. It has been left to grow as a meadow and species are developing that encourage pollinators...
Wet Meadow
Goal: To provide a small area where plants thrive in continuously-damp soil that receives direct sunlight for only several hours per day. Situated only 10鈥�15 meters from another area on the roof that provides different conditions, students can compare biodiversity in these differing micro-habitats. Maintenance: Weekly check for any garbage or damage Jewel weed (Impatiens...
