Crosswinds Marsh Meanderings 2016 Series
This series continues the geocaching community’s recognition of Wayne County’s efforts in providing replacement wildlife wetlands habitat removed by the Detroit Metro Airport expansion. Crosswinds Marsh Wetland Interpretive Preserve is one of the largest man-made wetlands in the country. It was built to replace the wetlands that were paved over to expand Wayne County's (the McNamara terminal). Wayne County, The area is managed by the Wayne County Parks.
On August 13 the Parks system put on a Hobby day and invited some members of MIGO to participate. As part of the day's activities a Geocahing event was held which included the launch of 12 Geocaches dedicated to the various plant species associated with the wildlife area. This cache is one of them.
Do not leave the boardwalk to look for this geocache.
A link to all 12 of the caches may be FOUND HERE. In the cover of the cache you will find a three digit code. Record this code for entering into a online form for registration for a commemorative collectible for those that complete the series. The link to the form is found HERE.
CMM03 – Narrow-leaved Cattail
Cattails are easily recognized as the tall plants along wetland edges that maintain their brown flower spike throughout the winter. Sometimes this spike (which is the female flower spike) will be broken apart and some of the 117,000 to 268,000 seeds will be visible. There is a white cotton-like fluff attached to each seed which aids in dispersal by the wind. The less familiar male flower spike holds the pollen grains then withers away once they are released. Every part of the cattail plant, including the rootstock is consumed by some species of wildlife, whether it be cattail moth caterpillars, geese, or muskrat. Humans also enjoy many recipes using each part of the plant. Several species of birds nest in colonies of cattails and the seed fluff makes an excellent fire starter.
Crosswinds Marsh Rules
No fires
No bikes / ATVs / personal watercraft
No swimming or ice fishing
Dogs must be leashed
No alcohol or illegal substances
No camping
Fishing in designated areas only
Collecting of plants & animals prohibited
Park only at N 42 05.744 W 83 26.552
All Geocachers must follow the above rules.
Crosswinds Marsh is open from DAWN to DUSK. Admission is free.