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Mormon Island Wetland

Frémont cottonwood, Mormon Island Wetland Preserve, Folsom (11/15/20) John Poimiroo

From Green Valley Road in Folsom, Mormon Island Wetland Preserve looks like an impenetrable tangle of shrubs and tall Frémont cottonwood. Volunteer trails cut this way and that through the bramble in no apparent order.

Mormon Island Wetlands Preserve, Folsom (11/15/20) John Poimiroo

But, leading from a parking area off Green Valley Rd., a path winds into and around the preserve, through a briar of Pacific black berry, poison oak, toyon, western redbud, coffee berry, black elderberry, California grape, and other winter deciduous plants.

Mormon Island Wetland Preserve, Folsom (11/15/20) John Poimiroo
  • Tree of Heaven (red) and Frémont Cottonwood, Mormon Island Wetland Preserve (11/15/20) John Poimiroo
  • Frémont Cottonwood, Mormon Island Wetland Preserve (11/15/20) John Poimiroo

Hot spots of electric-red, exotic Tree of Heaven have invaded the woods. They grab attention, but will eventually compete with the native plants for sustenance and provide nothing nutritious for wildlife.

  • Frémont cottonwood, Mormon Island Wetland Preserve (11/15/20) John Poimiroo
  • Pyracantha (exotic), Mormon Island Wetland Preserve (11/15/20) John Poimiroo

Peak has arrived at Mormon Island and it will continue through Thanksgiving Day.

  • Mormon Island Wetlands Preserve, Folsom (220′) – Peak (75-100%) GO NOW!
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