On September 9, 2002, our Chapter signed a deed that gave us ownership of approximately 60 acres of property within the city limits of Rolla for the development of the Ozark Nature Reserve. The Reserve is dedicated to education, with a commitment to habitat restoration and preservation. When completed, the Reserve will have over 4 miles of trail that will traverse 5 distinct ecosystems including a dolomite glade, tall-grass prairie, oak savannah, upland oak forest with 2 stands of shortleaf pine, and a spring-fed riparian zone. The trail system will originate at the parking lot and will be a self-directed tour, including “easel stops” for artists. These stops will be chosen for their beauty and uniqueness. They will include the spring-fed creek, the grove of century oak trees, the Jensen Pines, the prairie area and Rosemary’s Glade. Native plants, wildflowers and fall foliage will offer inspiration as well.

We are committed as a Chapter to make the Center a unique “step back in time” where visitors will be able to see first hand what the Ozarks looked like before European settlers arrived. Over the next few years we will be involved extensively in habitat restoration, trail building, bridge construction, nature interpretation, bird, plant, and wildlife surveys, and historical research and documentation. It is our hope that when you, your family, and friends visit you will have a truly unique outdoor experience that will be educational as well as fun and will have a lasting and positive impact.