The site, which provides an outdoor classroom for the college and the K - 12 schools in the area, also serves as a place where members of the college community and the community of Tifton can observe and learn about the environment in a natural-type setting. The area also represents the Forestry & Wildlife Club's commitment to natural resource conservation and its recognition of the need to educate the public on such matters.
Kevin VonSeggern, a wildlife technology major from Tucker who graduated from ABAC in May, served as the club's crew leader for the project.
"I began working at the Nature Study Area because I liked working outdoors," VonSeggern said. "I also enjoyed being part of such a special project. I have learned valuable skills and have increased my knowledge of wildlife and habitat management. This 'hands-on' experience will definitely help me in my future career endeavors."
In addition to VonSeggern, three other students have played a major role in the development and maintenance of the NSA, including Bill Bennett, a wildlife technology major from Waycross; Doug Flake, a forest technology major from Keller; and Brent Redfern, an agriculture education major from Soperton.
Dr. Doug Waid, associate professor of wildlife and forestry at ABAC and the advisor of the Forestry & Wildlife Club, estimated that more than 1,000 hours have been logged in by students during the spring semester.
"The students have really devoted a lot of time and effort working at the Nature Study Area," Waid said. "All of the work is done exclusively by students, and it is a constant effort--an ongoing process. They have to clear the weeds and shrubs that threaten to overtake the walking paths and bridges. In fact, one of the main tasks for the students is to maintain this growth and keep it under control. In addition to my four 'principal architects,' there are many other students who volunteer their time."
Although the NSA covers a large area, most people visit the four-and-a-half acre area around the duck pond and the bridges. In this area, visitors can observe wildlife in its natural environment, including several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, as well as many insect species. They can also see numerous species of trees and plants native to Georgia.
Bennett said he enjoys his time at the NSA because he loves working outdoors in the fresh air.
"I like the physical work and the feeling that I am doing something productive," Bennett said. "I also enjoy learning about the various plant and animal species and the 'hands-on' experience I am gaining."
For Waid, one of the best aspects of the NSA is the opportunity to manipulate a natural habitat and create a study area for students, a "living laboratory."
"I think people need to appreciate nature, and the NSA is one way of making nature accessible to them," Waid said. "It's a place where they can learn about plants and animals and the environment in which they live. The students have built a very special place, and in doing so, they have created a lasting legacy, something that will live on for generations to come. I encourage everyone to educate themselves about nature and visit the NSA."
In 1998, the Parker Poe Foundation awarded a grant of $30,000 to ABAC's Wildlife Technology Program for the development of the NSA. For additional information, contact the Division of Agriculture and Forest Resources at (229) 386-3255.
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