Search for Skunk Cabbage at Powell Preserve

Not far from the parking lot at Powell Preserve and hidden by the willows is a small patch of skunk cabbage, one of Monroe County’s most fascinating wetland plants. With fewer than 30 documented occurrences of skunk cabbage in the county, this is a rare chance to observe it in bloom. We’ll discuss its remarkable thermogenic properties, which allow the plant to generate heat and even melt surrounding snow to emerge early in the season. While we’re there, we’ll observe the stream restoration, seeing firsthand how restoration supports wetlands, water quality, and wildlife habitat. Powell Preserve is not currently open to the public.