J.D. Willson runs the Willson Lab at the University of Arkansas, overseeing various research projects across NWA. On the afternoon of Friday, April 25th, J.D. will lead up to 10 participants through two ongoing research projects at Woolsey Wet Prairie: one monitoring the snake species that can be found in this unique and scarce habitat, the other monitoring the impact of solar arrays on wildlife communities. The trip involves extensive walking along mowed grass paths and frequent trips off trial through tall brush to flip boards for snakes. Expect up to 2 miles of walking taking roughly two hours.
<aside> 📍
Field trips will meet at Mount Sequoyah Retreat Center outside of Millar Lodge (GPS 36.064169, -94.146958). Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your departure time to allow time for parking, finding your group, and checking in with your trip leader. We encourage carpooling. If you wish to meet at the site, or have any other accommodation requests please contact Taylor Long at [email protected] or text 479-530-9084.
</aside>
J.D. Willson will lead the caravan from Mt Sequoyah, leaving at 1:00 PM on Friday afternoon. The drive to Woolsey Wet Prairie is ~15 minutes. Participants can expect to return to Mt. Sequoyah by 4:00 PM.
From Mt. Sequoyah, take Mission Blvd north then turn left at North St. Follow North St ~1.5 miles until it turns into Wedington Dr. and follow that ~3.2 miles. Turn left onto N. Broyles Ave and keep heading south ~1 mile until you see the sewage treatment plant on the right. Turn right into the treatment plant’s driveway, then park in the small turn-off on the right. The trailhead for the Woolsey Wet Prairie trails begins here. GPS: 36.064387, -94.232421