William B. Clark Conservation Area

Conditions

The William B. Clark Conservation Area is a Tennessee State Natural Area as well as a Nature Conservancy preserve. It is monitored and kept up by both organizations. An award-winning boardwalk and a kiosk are on site. Summer is very hot. Dogs are allowed on leash.

What to See

1) Wetlands: You are in a transitional area between two floodplain ecosystems: a bottomland hardwood forest and a tupelo swamp. The seasonal flooding that occurs in these wetlands serves many functions, including diversifying the range of habitats, renewing nutrients in the soil and filtering pollutants out of the water.

2) Dead Trees: Whether falling or still standing, dead trees are an integral part of the floodplain ecosystem. They provide important habitat for fish, birds, mammals, plants and insects. So the next time you see a dead tree, remember that it’s really just beginning a new kind of life!

3) Snakes: Snakes are quite common in wetland ecosystems. They are also among the most misunderstood creatures one can encounter in the wild. The vast majority are shy and retiring, and far from dangerous. Contrary to popular belief, only 4 of Tennessee’s 32 snake species are venomous. Even these venomous snakes generally are not aggressive and pose no threat to humans. If you see a snake, simply watch it from a safe distance and let it be. Remember: it is illegal to harm, kill, or remove snakes in Tennessee.

4) Early Days: The region's early settlers used rivers like the Wolf as aquatic highways, reliable sources of food and convenient sites for villages and trading centers. Early inhabitants of the area built large earthen mounds that still stand in many places along the Mississippi River.

5) Vegetation: In looking around you will notice both bald cypress and tupelo trees. Note the difference in the trees: tupelo have a swollen base but no visible roots, while cypress usually have a network of aerial roots called "knees." The understory is dominated by Virginia willow, which turns purple-red in the fall. Yellow pond lilies are also quite common and provide a source of food for beavers and muskrat.

6) Beavers: Beaver dams regulate flowing water and often create vast wetland systems. These wetland areas help prevent stream bank erosion, improve water quality by trapping sediment and provide safe havens for young fish and amphibians.

This is an excellent site for bird watching and wildlife viewing, so bring your binoculars and camera. In addition to the many bird species that inhabit the area, you may see beavers, otters, turtles and snakes. You'll be up on the boardwalk, while they'll be down below.

Check the local weather forecast and dress accordingly. Hat and drinking water are recommended. During warm weather, light color and light-weight clothing is suggested. Repellent, binoculars and birdwatching field guide(s) are also worth bringing. This is an excellent site for bird watching. Dogs are allowed on leash.