In August, I enjoyed the opportunity to participate in a walk into the heart—or “eye”—of the Tannersville Cranberry Bog in Monroe County, PA. In addition to experiencing the “quaking bog mat” that is at the center of this special place, we also were able to observe the unique habitat characterized by sphagnum moss, carnivorous plants, black spruce, orchids and more.

Some exciting news has been announced about the Bog, and the public will have the opportunity to celebrate it on October 18 at the Tannersville Bog Day event.

Concluding a decades-long protection effort of this National Natural Landmark, the Nature Conservancy of PA, along with the Monroe County Conservation District, is celebrating the purchase of 116 acres of critical habitat. Patching together land parcels over the past 58 years, this acreage establishes surrounding protection of the bog and its high-quality water system. Fifteen property owners either donated or sold their lands to The Nature Conservancy or Pocono Township to protect the bog.

Conversations with the Weiss family, who owned the 116-acre parcel for 40 years, began 30 years ago, and a purchase transaction was finalized earlier this year.

Ralph (Bud) Cook, senior project manager of The Nature Conservancy, described the bog as a unique natural gem reflecting the glacial activity that transformed the area millions of years ago. “It would be impossible to replace if it were destroyed,” he said. “Acquiring this final property is a tremendous conservation achievement.”

Guided tours of the Weiss tract will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, winding through upland forest and open meadows overlooking Cranberry Creek. Guided boardwalk tours of the bog will be offered throughout the day as well. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, call 570/621-3061.