[GarterGuy]

Probably is an Eastern Ribbon (T.sauritus ssp.), you don't see them as much as garters, they seem to be less adaptable to environmental changes and developement of their habitat then garters. Also they seem to rely on amphibians very highly in this area as a food source and as their numbers decrease, so do the ribbons. The garters opertunistic diet, allows it to survive better in these disturbed areas. If you've found an area that does support a good population of ribbons, that's great. Says there's a good population of amphibians there and that usually indicates a good and healthy environment.
Roy