TWO CREEKS BURIED STATE FOREST
TWO CREEKS BURIED STATE FOREST
Two Creeks Buried State Forest is a unique natural reserve that showcases the remnants of an ancient ecosystem buried beneath layers of glacial deposits. This remarkable forest is named after the two creeks that once flowed through the area and played a significant role in shaping the landscape. The forest offers a captivating glimpse into the region's geological history, featuring exposed layers of sand, clay, gravel, and even ancient tree stumps. With its diverse flora and fauna, Two Creeks Buried State Forest serves as an intriguing outdoor classroom for those interested in understanding the Earth's past and the forces that have shaped our environment today.
Two Creeks Buried State Forest, located in northeastern Wisconsin, has a unique geological history. It is notable for the presence of ancient buried river valleys, which date back to the last Ice Age, approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago.
During the Ice Age, the region was covered by an enormous glacier known as the Green Bay Lobe. As the glacier advanced and retreated, it reshaped the landscape, carving out large tunnels called subglacial meltwater tunnels. These tunnels, formed as meltwater carved its way through the ice, created deep and narrow valleys.
As the glacier began to melt and retreat, enormous amounts of sediment were deposited within these subglacial meltwater tunnels. Over time, this sediment accumulated, burying the river valleys under layers of sand and gravel. The result is a unique geological feature known as a "buried river valley."
The name "Two Creeks" refers to two small creeks that flow through the forest, namely the Shoto Creek and the East Twin River. These waterways follow the path of the ancient buried river valleys beneath the sandy surface.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recognized the scientific value and the unique natural characteristics of the site and established it as Two Creeks Buried State Forest in 1966. The state forest encompasses 700 acres of land and provides opportunities for camping, hiking, birdwatching, and nature appreciation.
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