Photo from Pixabay
Wake County is in the process of planning three new nature reserves and we need residents’ help to make the most of these open spaces.
- Little River in northeast Wake County has nearly 3,700 acres of wetlands, vast open fields, and wooded areas. With diverse vegetation and topography, the site offers a variety of recreation and environmental education opportunities while preserving sensitive habitats and ecosystems. Activities may include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding.
- Buffalo Creek , located in eastern Wake County, includes just over 900 acres of blackwater cypress swamp and adjacent upland habitat. This natural heritage blackwater cypress swamp is the only habitat of its kind in Wake County and features flora and fauna more common to the coastal plain. Representing an expansion of the Robertson Millpond Preserve, this preserve could feature hiking trails, accessible trails, kayak launch and rental facilities, group camping area, mountain bike trails, fishing pond, day-use picnic areas, prairie demonstrations, wildlife observation platforms, natural games and opportunities to learn.
- Swift Creek it is located in southern Wake County and includes about 2,800 acres of land owned by the municipalities (Cary, Garner, and Raleigh). The nature reserve is forested and includes important wetlands, floodplains, and wildlife habitat. Natural surface trails provide opportunities for hiking, walking, environmental education, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
“This is an exciting opportunity to play an active role in the future of three nature preserves that residents and visitors will enjoy for years to come,” said Sig Hutchinson, chairman of the Wake County Board of Commissioners. “This is another example of the county’s commitment to protecting our beautiful wilderness and providing recreational opportunities for all. I encourage everyone to participate in the planning process.”
How to participate
Residents interested in helping guide the development of the preserves can attend one of two community meetings. Visit us anytime to find out what’s possible and share your thoughts on what you’d like to see, from horseback riding and mountain biking to hiking and bird watching. Concept designs will be available to view, and staff and consultants will be available to answer any questions.
Wednesday, July 20
4-7 pm
Wendell City Hall
15 E. 4th St., Wendell, NC 27591
Thursday, July 21
4-7 pm
White Deer Park Nature Center
2400 Aversboro Road, Garner, North Carolina 27529
Staff and consultants will use feedback from the meetings to help shape the initial design concept for each preserve, which will be presented to the Wake County Board of Commissioners for review.
Commitment to open space
Nature reserves are minimally developed to provide limited opportunities for passive recreation, such as hiking, paddling, and horseback riding, while protecting significant natural resources and/or habitats.
Wake County began acquiring open space in 2000 with the goal of protecting and conserving land and water resources for current residents and future generations. To date, the county has acquired or assisted in the acquisition of 8,486 acres.
Funds from the 2018 Parks, Recreation, Greenways and Open Spaces voter-approved bond will be used to produce the conceptual plans for these preserves.
Learn more at wakegov.com/HelpPlanPreserves.
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