Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Turkey Creek adds 328 acres; now Jefferson County’s third 1,000-acre nature preserve
Reading time: 2 minutes
The Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust has added 328 acres to the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson, bringing the preserve’s total size to 1,030 acres.
To make it happen, Forever Wild purchased two properties: 248 acres from The Nature Conservancy of Alabama and an 80-acre tract that was privately owned.
It is now the third 1000+ acre nature preserve in Jefferson County. The other two are Red Mountain Park and Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve.
Turkey Creek: Popular and biologically significant
One of Forever Wild’s most popular nature preserves, the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is home to the endangered Vermilion Darter (Etheostoma chermocki), a rare fish found only within the Turkey Creek watershed.
“I appreciate the significant investment by the Forever Wild Board to acquire this property and for our continued partnership with The Nature Conservancy, Jefferson County Greenways and the City of Pinson on the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve.
Adding these tracts to the preserve helps protect the sensitive species that depend upon it and allows for increased outdoor recreation opportunities. This is a perfect example of how Forever Wild provides public access to outdoor recreation while ensuring the conservation of unique habitats and species throughout the state.”
Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and Chairman of the Forever Wild Board of Trustees
What does this new part of Turkey Creek look like? Think towering old-growth longleaf pines and nearly century-old oak-hickory forests.
“The Turkey Creek watershed is home to incredible freshwater biodiversity, including three endangered fish species. This acquisition demonstrates what is possible when conservation partners like The Nature Conservancy and Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust come together to protect critical habitat for wildlife, connect resilient landscapes, and expand opportunities for people to enjoy this special natural place.”
Keith Tassin, Deputy Director for The Nature Conservancy in Alabama
Celebrating Turkey Creek Nature Preserve expansion on Aug. 5
At 10AM on Wednesday, August 5, Forever Wild and its partners will hold a celebration at the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve Pavilion. After the big event, Jefferson County Greenways—the group that operates Turkey Creek Nature Preserve—will be in charge of making the new addition accessible to the public.
