On April 22 (Earth Day), Larry and Brenda Potterfield finalized their donation of 160 acres of Missouri Riverfront property to The Nature Conservancy of Missouri (TNC).
Missouri River Relief is beyond excited and grateful to be part of the future vision for this beautiful property at Huntsdale. The fact that this special place is protected forever because of the generosity and vision of the Potterfields and the dedication of TNC is truly stunning. The property is bounded by one mile of Missouri River frontage along the west, Katy Trail State Park to the east, Terrapin Creek to the north and Grocery Branch Creek to the south.
Now comes the exciting phase of visioning and planning with our partners and community to make this beautiful place a river outreach, research and conservation center on the Missouri River.
At this point, we have more dreams than answers! We are so grateful that part of TNC’s future vision is for public use of the boat ramp which accesses one of our favorite reaches of the river – the Manitou Bluffs, the Big Muddy Refuge and some stunning sandbars. The ramp is currently open to the public.
The Nature Conservancy will partner with Missouri River Relief, other partners, and community stakeholders to vision out the highest and best use for the property as it relates to our mission and the needs of the surrounding community. Floodplain restoration and native plantings will most certainly be a part of the plan for the property itself- making it a valuable asset for the river, the plants and animals that rely on floodplain habitat, and lovers of nature and wildlife.
The building and associated infrastructure will also be part of the visioning process. Missouri River Relief and The Nature Conservancy will utilize the space for advancing their missions via education, outreach, research, and deeply engaging the community with the beauty and importance of the Missouri River.
Larry and Brenda Potterfield discuss river dreams with MRR Development Manager Lisa Cole.
The property is bounded by one mile of Missouri River frontage along the west, Katy Trail State Park to the East, Terrapin Creek to the north and Grocery Branch Creek to the south.
Click each photo to see full size.