Organic soil flats, or extensive peatlands, differ from mineral soil flats in part
because their elevation and topography are controlled by vertical accretion of organic
matter. They occur commonly on flat interfluves, but may also be located where depressions
have become filled with peat to form a relatively large flat surface. Water source is
dominated by precipitation, while water loss is by overland flow and seepage to underlying
groundwater. They occur in relatively humid climates. Raised bogs share many of these
characteristics but may be considered a separate class because of the convex upward form
and distinct edaphic conditions for plants. Portions of the Everglades and northern Minnesota
peatlands are examples of organic soil flat wetlands.
Organic soil flats, or extensive peatlands, differ from mineral soil flats in part
because their elevation and topography are controlled by vertical accretion of organic
matter. They occur commonly on flat interfluves, but may also be located where depressions
have become filled with peat to form a relatively large flat surface. Water source is
dominated by precipitation, while water loss is by overland flow and seepage to underlying
groundwater. They occur in relatively humid climates. Raised bogs share many of these
characteristics but may be considered a separate class because of the convex upward form
and distinct edaphic conditions for plants. Portions of the Everglades and northern Minnesota
peatlands are examples of organic soil flat wetlands.