McCormick
Location
Ecological and Physical Description
This RNA features mature stands dominated by sugar maple (Acer saccharum). The topography and soils are distinctly varied. No cutting has occurred in the RNA for more than 80 years. Several state Listed species are present within the RNA: including the state threatened sandwort (Arenaria macrophylla), and three state special concern species male fern (Dryopteris filix-mas), blue wild rye (Elymus glaucus), and rock-bracke (Cryptogramma stelleri).
During the months of June through August, precipitation averages 4 inches (10.1 cm) per month. From December through February, average monthly precipitation is 2 inches (5.08 cm). Yearly snowfalls up to 300 inches (762 cm) have been reported.
The nearest station is located at Herman, Michigan, 19 miles (30.4 km) west of the RNA and on the same divide. This station should provide the best available record of the climate in the RNA. Three other stations within the general area which might also provide information are the Champion, Alberta Park and Big Bay stations.
The western and northeastern portions of the site contain relatively flat, sandy outwash plains separated by a rugged escarpment approximately 3/8 mile wide. Surface features and soils are derived from deposits of glacial till and outwash. Much of the bedrock is gneiss. Podzolic soils dominate the area. The soil series found on this RNA include: Michigamme (Bedrock), Champion (weakly developed fragipan), Karlin (Textural bands), and Kalkaska and Pence (no obstruction).
The main and west branch of the Yellow Dog River pass through the site. The site also contains 5 1/2 miles of stream, a small lake (5 acres) and Lake Margaret (120 acres). Streamflow through part of the RNA is regulated by a dam at the outlet of Bulldog Lake.
Flora and Fauna
Common Plant Species
| Scientific Name | Common Name | Category | At Risk | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lonicera canadensis | Fly honeysuckle | Common Shrub Species | ||
| Corylus cornuta) | beaked hazel-nut | Common Shrub Species | ||
| Acer spicatrum | mountain maple | Common Shrub Species | ||
| Diervella lonicera | bush honeysuckle | Common Shrub Species | ||
| Dryopteris intermedia | Fancy wood-fern | Common Herbaceous Species | ||
| Trientalis borealis | star flower | Common Herbaceous Species | ||
| Streptopus roseus | twisted stalk | Common Herbaceous Species | ||
| Clintonia borealis | bead-lily | Common Herbaceous Species | ||
| Lycopodium lucidulum | shining clubmoss | Common Herbaceous Species |
Common Animal Species
| Scientific Name | Common Name | Category | At Risk | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odocoileus virginianus | White-tailed deer | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Ursus americanus), | black bear | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Felis rufus | bobcat | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Lepus americanus | snowshoe rabbit | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Castor canadensis | beaver | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Mustela vison | American mink | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Erethizon dorsatum | North American porcupine | Common Mammal Species | ||
| Sphyrapicus spp. | Sapsuckers | Common Bird Species |
Publications
- Ronald A. Raisanen, J. Kirwin Werner. 1977. A survey of fishes of the McCormick Forest.
- USDA FS. 1975. Vertebrate animal populations of the McCormick Forest.