Falls Lake Forests

The forest surrounding Falls Lake is an example of a southeastern mixed forest, dominated by oak, hickory and pine trees as well as a variety of understory species.  Most of the forests are second-growth, having been re-established after construction of the lake.  The forest is actively managed for wildlife habitat, rather than allowing natural succession, through prescribed burns and other forestry techniques.  Most of the land as Butner-Falls of Neuse Game Land is publicly accessible, with the 60-mile Falls Lake Trail providing great hiking access through the forest.

Understory:

The understory consists of smaller trees that grow beneath the forest canopy.  Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is one such tree, which produces bright pink blooms in the spring.

Another tree that blooms in spring is the flowering dogwood (Cornus florida).  The flowers are actually the small green centers - the white "petals" are actually bracts, a type of leaf.

White fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is another flowering tree with beautiful white flowers.

Shrubs:

A number of shrubs and bushes grow along Falls Lake and produce beautiful flowers.  Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is uncommon in the Piedmont but can be found along the shore of Falls Lake.

Pinxter azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides) is a species of rhododenron with pink flowers.

American holly (Ilex opaca) is a shrub or small tree that produces bright red berries in the winter.  Although poisonous to humans, they are an important food source for birds.

Forest Floor:

In spring time, the forest floor at Falls Lake comes alive with wildflowers.  See Falls Lake Wildflowers for some of the species that can be found here.

Blog Entries:

05-Feb-2017: Prescribed Burn at Falls Lake