Environmental foundations

Monroe County forest systems - A review of the varied types of forests found in the county, as well as how land disturbed for agriculture or logging restores itself. A look at trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants that form communities.

Monroe County soils - a dirty discussion about geologic history, the three major geologic regions, how to identify your soil, soil capabilities, some terms you should know, detailed descriptions of each of the 139 soil groups, and some conclusions.

Species for Monroe

Alphabetical (by Latin name) list of species whose a) recognized distribution includes Monroe County, Pennsylvania or is found nearby and b) appears to be available for purchase in the commercial marketplace. Latin and common names, availability, notes on natural habitat and how to grow it.

Trees (Deciduous, coniferous)

Shrubs

Pteridophytes (ferns and fern allies)

Graminoids (grasses, sedges, rushes)

Forbs (all other herbaceous perennials)

Special lists of introduced, invasive and endangered species for both Pennsylvania and Monroe County.

Best source to buy plants in the region: Edge of the Woods Nursery, Route 100, Fogelsville (a few miles west of Allentown). Specializing in natives, this large nursery offers a huge selection of sun and shade species, including hard-to-find shrubs, plus an expert staff provides sound guidance and even design services. Definitely worth a trip.

Climate Summaries

Monthly summaries of day-by-day weather records for Monroe County beginning in 2004. Current month updated weekly. Data collected from the National Weather Service. Go to subindex.