Description
As the Cahaba River flows through Perry County in the upper coastal plain, the floodplain broadens and creates areas of bottomland hardwood forests, oxbow lakes and extensive sand and gravel bars. Here, bald cypress, wreathed in Spanish moss, blows in the breeze, bringing a distinctly southern feel.
Large gravel bars in this section of the river provide unique habitat for nesting turtles and birds. The river in this reach is also home to numerous mussel species that play a key role in maintaining water quality.
The location of Barton's Beach also provides an opportunity to work at a larger scale, with the 800-acre Perry Lakes Park is adjacent to the preserve. Plans are underway for the completion of another recreational park adjacent to the preserve. The Nature Conservancy serves on the board overseeing that effort and will play a role in managing the park. Plans include the building of public accessible nature trails, picnic area and a canoe launch.
