CHICKASAW BLUFFS
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This is a picture of Big Hill Pond state park near
Selmer, Tenn. A similarly-scaled boardwark is intended
for the Chickasaw Bluffs exhibit at the Memphis Zoo. |
There are approximately 175 acres of forest land in Memphis' Overton Park, of which 17 acres are designated for the Memphis Zoo to provide a low-impact forest trail. This trail will provide unparelled access for all segments of the community to enjoy the natural plant life and animal wildlife that reside in one of Memphis' finest parks.
The concept calls for a simple, raised boardwalk that will guide Zoo guests through the forest. This forest land is located on the Zoo's existing campus footprint.
Click here to view an image that has this land highlighted in the Zoo's master plan.
There will be no large-scale buildings or animal exhibits constructed in this area. Instead, the Zoo will partner with forestry experts to provide a safe path through the forest while maintaining its delicate ecosystem.
Chickasaw Bluffs will feature small signs that educate guests on the forest, and Zoo staff, volunteers and docents will provide classes and other educational opportunities on the trail.
Other successful examples of similar forest trails include those seen at Big Hill Pond near Selmer, TN, the William B. Clark Conservation Area in Rossville, TN, and W.C. Johnson Park in Collierville, TN.
The Memphis Zoo is committed to working with forestry experts to build a low impact boardwalk through 17 of the 175 acres of the great forest of Overton Park. This boardwalk will not only bring more people into the forest while preserving its native plants and ecosystem, but also educate our community of the forest's history and awe-inspiring beauty.
Exhibit Timetable
 | Temporary GIS survey markers, like the one above, help mark locations for exhibit designers.
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| Over
the next few years, the Zoo will continue to investigate the project to
understand the full composition of the 17 acres, the scope of the
trail, and fundraising needed to put it all together.
All
of these plans will be completed and will have received city approval
before the Zoo begins any construction of paths or infrastructure for
Chickasaw Bluffs.
Current Progress A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Survey of the
site is currently underway, to map out the species and location of trees, and existing landmarks in the area.
The survey will help exhibit designers and forestry experts determine how to weave the trail through the forest. This survey is the first step in providing scope to the project.
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Check this page often for progress updates.
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| The William B. Clark Conservation Area in Rossville, TN. |