After four years of preparations, The Ridge Nature Area grand opening will take place Saturday, Aug. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Southern Conservation Trust and the City of Fayetteville invite the public to celebrate the many volunteers, scouts, donors, partners and other supporters who have helped bring this unique 308 acre nature area to fruition.
The Ridge is a former farm in the heart of Fayette County and is located just off Highway 54 at the end of Burch Road. It is the sixth public nature area that the Southern Conservation Trust has developed for the public to enjoy.
“The Ridge is an incredible environmental space that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests,” said Tami Morris, board chair. “We invite the public to join us for the official opening to experience the diverse biospheres and learn about ways they can enjoy and help us enhance the nature area.”
Activities for the day include the following:
Family outdoor fun and activities include the official ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. An additional White Water Paddle Trail ribbon cutting will be held at 11 a.m. in anticipation of appropriate fall water levels for paddling.
Help complete part of the paddle trail by participating in the 1st Annual Duck Race at 11:30 a.m. Duck donations are $5 and the race winner will receive a prize. To adopt your duck and see if your Quacker is first to cross the line visit www.sctlandtrust.org.
Guided trail hikes and mountain bike rides begin at noon. Gently hike the 1.5 miles of pedestrian trails or explore the 4.3 miles of multi-purpose trails. Mountain bikers will enjoy the multi-purpose basic trail rides throughout the 4.3 miles of The Ridge.
Additional activities include a Treasure Hunt with prizes and refreshments. Educational exhibits and naturalists will share elements of The Ridge. All activities are presented thanks to many sponsors and partners.
“Bring your family out and join us,” encouraged SCT executive director Pam Young. “Too often our children stay indoors, missing the chance to establish a healthy lifestyle through outdoor fun. Ensuring families have opportunities to hike, smell the freshness after a warm summer rain or witness animals in their natural habitat is paramount to the mission of SCT.”
Providing opportunities for our community to engage and connect with nature is solely supported through contributed revenue including private and corporate support and multiple grants. If you or your business would like to support SCT’s efforts visit www.sctlandtrust.org or contact Pam Young at p.young@sctlandtrust.org.
