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Liberty Township, Warren County
81 Acres
Long managed as a family run tree farm, this 81-acre property
can now be enjoyed by hikers and others. Acquired by the Green
Acres Program from longtime owner Peter Funke, the hilly property
is a wonderful hardwood forest. White oak, red oak, ash, tulip,
maple and beech are some of the most common trees of the woodlot.
The Funkes managed this as a working tree farm, always striving
to show examples of good forest management and land stewardship
practices. Adding to the forest community are numerous vernal
ponds and wetlands used by salamanders and other amphibians in
the spring. Turkey, bear and pileated woodpecker are some of the
more striking animals of the forest. A variety of woodland flowering
plants including the state endangered western false lily-of-the-valley
depend on the forest habitat here.
Public Access and Uses:
Though named for “High Rocks” this nearby mountain
landmark is on adjacent private lands and is off-limits to the
general public. This property has frontage along Free Union Road.
Visitors can find the roadside, stone rubble remains of a limestone
kiln. Minimal roadside parking is available for day hikers however
no marked trails are provided. The Trust provides registration
for bow hunting only at this Preserve.
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