Anoka Ecosystems:
Aspen Forest
Aspen forests usually develop on wet, poorly drained soils which are not sufficiently wet to have a peat accumulation. Aspen forest is an early-successional community often established on disturbed sites after total clearing such as clear cutting or wind throw. Older stands of aspen forest in Anoka County can be difficult to distinguish over time as the presence of other hardwood species such as oak, maple and basswod increases.
These forests are typically dominated by aspens, with 60% or more of the cover being aspens or balsam poplar, and less than 10% being paper birch, though other species, such as green ashes and oaks may be found as well. Shade tolerant grasses and sedges, such as wild sarsaparilla, Canada mayflower, false melic grass, and mountain rice-grass, may be found in the understory depending on the canopy density and the depth to the water table. Hazelnut is a common understory shub occuring on many sites throughout Anoka County.
Sources:
"Minnesota Land Cover Classification System: User Manual." Version 5.3 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Central Region, 2004.
"Minnesota's Native Vegetation: A Key to Natural Communities" Version 1.5 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Natural Heritage
Program, 1993.
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