Back to the Natural State

Ducks Unlimited and several partners secured the 1,500 acres and soon will restore the land’s natural features, reestablish native vegetation and re-create functional bottomland and hardwood wetlands. These restorations are paramount to the area’s wildlife, water quality and healthy ecosystem. By building trails and other park amenities, the land will be permanently protected with a conservation easement and by securing the financial resources to sustain park management and operations. 

Community benefits include bike paths connecting to the adjoining 110+ mile Levee Trail, educational and interactive-program opportunities for children across the Mid-South, and event spaces and areas for passive play and nature interpretation. 

Once the restoration is complete, as the level of the Mississippi River fluctuates throughout the year, this floodplain will absorb and hold the rising river waters. During this process, the floodplain plants filter pollutants from the floodwater runoff before recirculating cleaner water back into the river. This will facilitate the environmental benefits of this wetland conservation project, including clean air and water, coastal storm protection, flood water storage, habitat restoration and conservation, carbon storage and improved quality of life for neighboring communities. 

The transition of Ducks Unlimited Park back to its natural habitat is a large undertaking and will take several years to complete. However, our commitment to restoring this acreage is solid and unwavering. Stay tuned and be one of the first to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.