Cedar Flats RNA

Cedar Flats Research Natural Area (RNA) was established to represent old-growth stands of western redcedar (Thuja plicata), along with associated swamps and marshes. The RNA lies on gentle benches along the Muddy River and moderately steep slopes on the western corner of the tract. Vine maple (Acer circinatum) and narrowleaf swordfern (Polystichum munitum) dominate the shrub and herb layers. Scattered red alder (Alnus rubra) with occasional conifers on hummocks dominate marsh and swamp communities. Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and western redcedar are the dominant tree species while western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis), grand fir, and western white pine (Pinus monticola) are also present. Red alder, bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), and black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa) are common hardwoods. Salal (Gaultheria shallon), vine maple (Acer circinatum), cascade barberry (Berberis nervosa), and sweet after death (Achlys triphylla) are common understory plants in the southwestern corner.