West Memphis project aims to transform floodplain into wetlands, trails and public green space
WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — A growing park just across the Mississippi River is working to blend conservation, recreation and education while creating a new green space for families in the Mid-South.
Ducks Unlimited Park at Big River Crossing is located in West Memphis, directly connected to downtown Memphis by Big River Crossing. The project covers nearly 1,500 acres of Mississippi River floodplain land that leaders say is being transformed into wetlands, trails and public green space.
Ducks Unlimited, which is headquartered in Memphis, says it has helped conserve more than 19 million acres of habitat across North America since 1937, with projects focused on wetlands, flood protection, water quality and wildlife conservation.
Leaders say this project is designed to benefit both wildlife and the people who live nearby.
Kate Hackett, managing director of lands for Ducks Unlimited, said wetlands are important not only for wildlife but also for communities.
"Wetlands provide ecosystem services such as cleaning our air supplies, our water supplies, protecting us against floods," Hackett said.
Because much of the park sits in the Mississippi River floodplain, restored wetlands can help slow and store stormwater during high water events. Leaders say that can reduce pressure on surrounding infrastructure and levee systems while also improving water quality and creating more wildlife habitat.
Tim Willis, managing director of conservation programs for Ducks Unlimited, said the park also gives people more access to outdoor space right across from downtown Memphis.
"I think having an outdoor space like this right across from downtown Memphis gives a lot of people an opportunity they may not have to come out, walk, bike, hang out and just enjoy being outside," Willis said.
The park already includes trails and green space people can use now through Big River Crossing. The area has also become known for seasonal sunflower fields that draw visitors looking for outdoor activities, photos and a different view of the riverfront.
Future plans include expanded trails, boardwalks, pollinator habitats, reforestation projects, educational kiosks and outdoor classroom spaces.
Hackett said the goal is to create a place where families, students and visitors can enjoy nature while learning why natural resources matter.
"In addition to the wetlands restoration and the reforestation activities we have planned, we really want this to become an outdoor classroom that the community can enjoy," Hackett said. "We want kids groups to come, classrooms to come. Eventually there’ll be boardwalks and educational kiosks and opportunities to learn about the value of our natural resources."
Project leaders said work on the park will continue over the next several years, but the trails and green space already open today are free for the public to enjoy.