This interpretive is furthest away form the parking lot than any of the other fauna interpretives. The sign teaches the visitor about the immediate environment/habitat. At the furthest end of boardwalk #2 is a two-tiered platform, viewing area with two sets of viewing binoculars, free, one high and one low. This is where the interpretives can be found. The interpretive is quite beautiful and features colorful pictures of various indigenous flora and fauna. The Board of Chosen Freeholders for Burlington County New Jersey has their insignia at the bottom right of the sign.
There is also an offshoot that goes to the west then back to the north again ending at the Rancocas. This one has a flora/fauna interpretive as well. The whole thing looks like a backwards four. The main section is 160 feet which leads to the decks and binoculars. The offshoot is 115 feet up toward the binocular area. Make a right turn and head you east; that section is 150 feet long, go to the end, make a left head north another 115 feet to the other viewing platform and interpretive.
The boardwalk is only a few years old as this park was established in 2009. I love this park and its boardwalks. Visitors can experience fields, shrub/scrub, forest, marsh and river without having to trek far or manage rough terrain. The park has wide, level trails, observation platforms and blinds, good signage, rest rooms and safe parking. The observation platforms overlooking Rancocas Creek can provide interesting sightings in any season, from waterfowl in winter to jumping fish, basking turtles, and flycatchers hawking insects in warmer months. This park was designed specifically for birding and wildlife watching.
This non-coastal boardwalk is 820 feet away from the parking lot. It is simple to get to. There is a path that cuts through the loop which runs around the park. The path starts at the parking lot at these coordinates: N 40° 0.575 W 74° 54.336. You'll pass the human sun dial at a rotary on the way to the interpretive. The dial is in a small rotary with benches. At the end make a left and walk 143 feet and you will come to the boardwalk which leads to the viewing platform and interpretive.
The interpretive reads:
HABITAT: Tidal and Freshwater Wetlands - Moorestown, NJ
Wetland is one of the three major habitat types in Boundary Creek NRA.
Tidal Wetlands are located in the northernmost section of Boundary Creek NRA, along the Rancocas Creek. Tidal wetlands are low-lying areas periodically flooded by tidal waters for varying lengths of time and may be exposed to brackish (salty) water. The wetlands here are not brackish at all and are considered tidal freshwater.
The tidal wetlands at Boundary Creek are dominated by WIld Rice, Spotted Jewelweed, smartweeds and tearthumbs. One unique species of wildflower found along the edge of the wetland here is called Marsh Marigold. The yellow flowers bloom early in the spring (April) and provide an important source of nectar for many insects.
This area provides habitat for fish, migratory waterfowl, and many other species of birds including Mallard, Marsh Wren, Red-winged Blackbird, Swamp Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle and Osprey.
Other wildlife species inhabiting the area include Beaver, Raccoon, Muskrat, Eastern Painted Turtle, Spring Peeper, and Green Frog.