Site Description: 
The Blue Mountain assemblage is an asymmetrical range that trends WNW to ESE approximately 28 km northeast of Kingston. The bedrock consists of Cretaceous igneous (primarily volcanic), metamorphic, and sedimentary strata uplifted 5 million years ago. The relatively young mountain range is characterized by steep slopes prone to erosion and landslides.

At its greatest width, the range is 20 km wde and reaches a maximum elevation of 2,254 meters (Blue Mt. Peak). A distinct rain shadow exists on southern slopes which receive 2,600 mm of rain annually, while the northern slopes typically receive 3,300 mm of rain. Blue Mt. Peak receives 4,300 mm of rain annually and is often shrouded in a dense mist.

Both natural and anthropogenic disturbances influence the biotic community. Periodic hurricanes and landslides as well as encroachment by human activity has without doubt shaped the ecological processes to be observed. Logging activities and clear-cut practices for subsistence farming are evident. Only forests on the most steep slopes in ravines have been left intact outside the park boundaries. The overall deforestation outside the park has exacerbated the erosional processes with numerous recent landslides evident.

Biodiversity Quadrant Site:

The biodiversity plot is located on the “Breezy Gully” trail approximately .5 km from the main trail leading to Blue Mt. peak. The elevation is 1640 m and faces East with a slope averaging 30%.

GPS Coordinates: 180 03’ 168” N, 760 35’ 64” W