Bogs of the Northeast

by Charles W. Johnson

What makes bogs so interesting yet so misunderstood? This generously illustrated book presents many of the exciting, almost enthralling, facets of bogs--unusual plants, intricate ecological relationships, animals, myths and folklore, and the myriad history recorded in the peats. Despite the fascinating bogs hold, until now there has been no popular book that deals with them in a comprehensive yet authoritative manner. The Northeastern United States has a wonderful diversity of bogs: some are southern in nature, others are very arctic, and still others maritime. And although this is a book primarily about peatlands in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the six New England states, it will interest a much wider audience seeking an exciting and attractive approach to these often-neglected areas of our natural heritage.

Genres: Nature

269 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Mila Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only way to find out if you like field ecology is to get out there and take a look at some of the remarkable places in the world. Some of them might be right around the corner, and this book will not only tell you how to get there, but what is so wonderful about them. Illustrated with photos and diagrams, color and black&white.

Perfect reading for the birder, botanist or hiker in your life, and certainly one to read if you have any interest in wetlands, natural history or even fishing.

[Stephen M. Theriault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome. I love bogs. Best book on bogs I've found.

[Ludmila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really a good book! I learned a lot about bogs - although this is an older book and some of the information (like scientific names) is outdated (hence 4 stars). It’s not dull or dry like might be expected but the author’s love for the beauty of bogs comes through poetically.

[Troy Ancona · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be fair this is the first book on bogs that I have read with this in mind the rating might be idealistic.

Johnson does an excellent job at conveying a deep appreciation for the beauty and mystery of the various types - bogs, heaths, fens - as well as the plants, insects, and animals which live in or use bogs for other means.

He combines a history of their commercial use as well as looking into the future potential (from a 1985 perspective) agricultural and industrial uses.

Written on a level that anyone can enjoy Johnson presents the delicate balance which exists in the bog revealing rare plants, insects and animals that exist there.

While I cannot speak from an expert level (concerning knowledge of bogs) I can review the book from the perspective of someone with a love of the outdoors and one who reads other biology or geology books.

Jonson conveys the various aspects on a bogs / fens / heaths developments, environment, and characteristics on a manner which helped me greatly in how I viewed bogs as well as what to look for when exploring one.

As someone who enjoys the outdoors, hiking when life permits (and having the good fortune to live in one of the states featured in this book), bogs have now been added to my outdoor exploration. After reading this book I now have a much deeper appreciation for this once mysterious ecosystem.

[Nate · Rating 3 out of 5]

A review of the geomorphology, biology, and use of bogs and wetlands through New England and New York. This book also includes information regarding access to bogs, as well as locations and maps. "Bogs of the Northeast" is a useful resource for people interested in wetlands in general and bogs i particular.

[Glorianna Davenport · Rating 4 out of 5]

For anyone who loves landscapes, particularly the wetland landscapes of North Eastern America, this book is an intriguing read. Charles Johnson, a Vermont State naturalist, combines in-depth scientific knowledge with the wonder of place, and in doing so helps us understand the ecological conditions that make the sensorium of peat bogs real and memorable.