Oxbow Meadows' uses include research, instruction, fun

The Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is used for:

• Hands-on environmental education. (Elementary, middle and high school students from Alabama and Georgia participate in environmental studies.)
• Live animal displays, including local reptiles, insects, amphibians and pond critters (e.g. snakes, turtles, alligator, beehives, spiders, frogs, fish, crayfish).
• Mounted animal displays, including insects, birds, reptiles and mammals (e.g. wasps, butterflies, ducks, geese, owls, turtles, foxes, squirrels, bobcats, raccoons, beaver).
• Lectures.
• Workshops.
• Conferences.
• Field trips (schools, universities and colleges).
• Group outings (schools, scouts, etc.).
• Meetings for clubs, organizations, etc.
• Picnicking in the outdoor pavilion.
• Birthday parties.
• Teacher training.
• Laboratory work.

The Oxbow Meadows site offers:

• Nature discovery opportunities.
• Research opportunities (high schools, universities and colleges).
• Bird watching.
• Hiking.
• Guided trail walks.

Two nature trails have been established at Oxbow Meadows for observing plants and wildlife. The Riparian Loop Trail begins at the edge of a lake and winds for one mile through a hardwood wetland habitat. The Trail of Measurements is a half-mile trail that follows an old gravel road between a deep lake and a shallow pond. This trail is marked with signs that identify different plant species. Two docks and a bridge are located along this trail; they allow visitors to examine more closely the animals and plants that are found on and in the water.

These trails allow visitors to view the native flora and fauna of the area, observe wetland environments, see signs of wildlife and listen to animals. Wildlife that can be seen include deer, bobcats, coyotes, hawks, doves, waterfowl, turtles, fish, beaver, snakes, frogs, dragonflies and butterflies. Oxbow Meadows is also a place to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the wetland environment.

Butterfly Garden

Oxbow Meadows invites you to come see our Butterfly Garden. Established in 2002, our garden has flourished for over five years and attracts many of the 160 species of butterflies native to Georgia. Ask our staff for information about how you can start your own butterfly garden in your yard or school. We'll teach you what plants you need to attract butterflies (nectar plants) and what plants you need to feed the caterpillars (host plants).