Light at Rines Preserve

One thing to be aware of while walking along this trail is the light! When you start in the old field you notice there are no tall trees creating a canopy, only open skies. This increased light allows these herbacous and grassy species to thrive without competing against canopy species such as mighty oaks or large maples. As you progress farther back into the trail you'll notice some saplings or shrubby species before you reach the established canopy. Canopy openings may stimulate growth of potentially competative plant species such as intolerant trees, grasses, sedges etc. Light availability can also affect regeneration of wetland plants.