Interpretive Signs: Northern Water Snake and Beaver
On March 13, 2013 two interpretive signs were installed near the northwest end of Spring Lake at Roebling Park. These are part the Friends for the Abbott Marshlands continuing efforts to educate visitors about the diversity and ecology of the Marshlands. They will complement programs offered at Mercer County’s Tulpehaking Nature Center once it opens as well as those organized by the Friends.
Beaver natural history and ecology – This sign illustrates the enormous ecological role these animals have in enhancing nature’s biodiversity and for habitat change. It is placed with a clear view of a large beaver lodge and located near a dam not far from the Spring Lake spillway.
Northern water snake natural history and ecology – Snakes are appreciated by only a few who understand their role in maintaining natural balance in ecosystems; they are much maligned and persecuted particularly because they are believed to be poisonous water moccasins (cottonmouths). The sign makes it clear that our snakes are not water moccasins, and that snakes should not be harmed.
The signs were made possible by a Washington Crossing Audubon Holden Fund grant. Many individuals helped develop these signs, especially Dennis Gemmell, who did much work on the original sign graphics and design.
In kind support was provided by Ecology Education Consulting, Inc. / Dennis Gemmell, and by Friends for the Abbott Marshlands, D&R Greenway Land Trust, Mercer County Park Commission, and Rider University.
George Zienowicz of Zienowicz Sign Company in Trenton created the signs.