Description
According to land-survey records from 1846, many of the same species exist today as did more than a hundred years ago.
Why You Should Visit
On this high-quality savanna, scattered oaks and hickories raise full, gnarled canopies, while tall bottlebrush grass, little bluestem and blazing stars wave beneath. The ravines and creeks are worth exploring for the chance of meeting a shy turtle, delicate ferns or elusive birds.
Conditions
The savanna is under intense study, so one might notice trees flagged to delineate test plots or other studies. The terrain is steep near the ravines. While you're never far from the highway, a topographic map and compass may be useful in navigating the ravines. There are no designated trails.
What TNC Has Done/Is Doing
Ongoing management, including the use of controlled burns, is restoring the grass/woodland complex, creating a habitat similar to that which existed prior to European settlement.
Why TNC Selected This Site
Bennett Spring Savanna is one of the last intact Ozark savannas, a globally unique landscape. It protects part of the recharge area to nearby Bennett Springs, one of the Midwest's most popular fishing destinations.
Give Nature a Hand
Volunteers offer the Conservancy a way to complete more critically important work while developing lasting friendships and having a lot of fun. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Kristy Stoyer at kstoyer@tnc.org.
