The 2002 rare orchid survey has concluded with promising results near Pine Basin and Deer’s Flats. Botanists working across the northern wet corridors documented a clear increase in the population of Cypripedium spectrale, a delicate species associated with cool soils and shaded, moisture-rich environments.

Lead ecologist Melvin Cooper noted that several new growth clusters were identified along seasonal water routes where soil conditions differ slightly from surrounding areas. Samples have been retained for further review, though staff emphasize that the most important outcome is the continued recovery of a species once thought to be in local decline.

Survey teams spent several weeks moving between marked sites, often returning to the same locations to confirm growth patterns and track changes in bloom timing. Rangers assisting with the survey reported stable conditions across most areas, with increased activity concentrated near low-lying corridors.

Cypripedium spectrale observed near Pine Basin during the 2002 survey.

All orchid patches remain protected. Visitors are asked to stay on maintained trails, avoid flash photography at close range, and never pick or transplant wild plants from park ground.

A fuller summary of the 2002 survey will be incorporated into future ecology bulletins and guided interpretive programs.