Overview

A mixed lay/scientific group here in Seattle (Seattle Parks ecologists, UW researchers, the Friends of Seward Park) is trying to figure out an unprecedented and alarming sword fern die-off in one hundred acres of old-growth forest in Seward Park.  The affected area is spreading radially; lush understory of two years ago is now bare ground.  Drought, pollution and mountain beaver activity may be contributing factors, but deeper and as yet unknown causes appear to be at play.

Survey: October  2014

Fronds in Detail: October 2015

This blog serves to document and  present our work.  Please contact paul.thurmond.shannon@gmail.com for further information.