Kelly Lynn Bog State Natural Area


Kelly Lynn Bog is a large wetland complex comprised of two units with open bog as the primary feature. Other natural community types are northern wet forest, northern sedge meadow, and several shallow, soft-water seepage lakes. Stunted black spruce dominates the bog and in some areas the trees are more densely clustered and form a closed canopy conifer forest. The seepage lakes occur on the southern margin of the area and are surrounded by eskers, kames, and various glacial features. The lake margins support floating bog mats and a great diversity of plant species including a rare orchid. Compared to the west unit, the eastern unit is a more open community. Species composition indicates the flow of mineral water permitting the development of a forested fen. Breeding birds include olive-sided flycatcher, least flycatcher, yellow-throated vireo, Cape May warbler, Canada warbler, mourning warbler, black-and-white warbler, and ovenbird. Kelly Lynn Bog is owned by Langlade County and was designated a State Natural Area in 2006.