Soubusta Sugarbush
Chardon Township, Geauga County
Charon Quad
59 acres
Significance
Basswood, tuliptree, red oak and black cherry are frequent within the drier beech/sugar maple forest. The wet swales and drainage courses within the northern area of the woods are locally dominated by canopies of elm, red maple, basswood and tulip. The understory is dominated by the wetland shrub spicebush. There are several exceptional basswood throughout the preserve. Nearly every wildflower one would expect in a typical beech/sugar maple forest occurs in the woods, such as white trillium, red trillium, false Solomon’s seal, true Solomon’s seal, marsh violet, halberd leaved violet, sweet white violet, blue cohosh, jack-in-the-pulpit, wild geranium, spring beauty, squirrel corn and dutchman’s breeches. We saw or heard several tropical birds that nest only within large deciduous forests. Some of the birds in the woods include wood thrush, scarlet tanager, hooded warbler, redstart and ovenbird.
Brief History
In 1997, Coordinator Bissell became acquainted with Mr. Edward Soubusta through Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Koelliker. The Koellikers knew that Mr. Soubusta wanted his land to be conserved and suggested he donate his 59-acre parcel to the Museum. In the winter of 1998, Mr. Soubusta donated his land to the Museum.
Acquisition History
Directions
Take I-90 east to Rt. 44 south. Soon after exiting onto Rt. 44 south, turn right onto Auburn Road south. Take Auburn Road to Thwing Road. Turn left (east) onto Thwing Road, Soubusta Sugarbush is about ½ mile down on your left (the north side of the road).