Forest Presents Certificate to the American Land Conservancy

The boat ramp and shoreline provides access to two major waterways.

By: Ron Scott

November 14, 2008

On October 8, 2008, the Shawnee National Forest was recognized by the American Land Conservancy (ALC) for the Forest's partnership efforts. In the joint endeavor ALC assisted the Forest in acquiring a 26-acre parcel of land near the mouth of the Big Muddy River in Union County, Illinois. This property contains riparian forest, a boat ramp and one-half mile of shore-line that provides access to the Big Muddy and Mississippi Rivers for boaters, anglers, hunters and other outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

The recognition came as part of a larger dedication event hosted by ALC for the Missouri Department of Conservation's recent purchase of the Windy Bar property on the Missouri side of the Mississippi River. The recognition event was held onboard the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's MV Pathfinder.

Becky Banker, Public Affairs Staff Officer for the Shawnee National Forest, presented ALC's Mississippi River Program Director, Jenny Frazier, with a Certificate of Appreciation for ALC's instrumental role in acquiring the Big Muddy Boat Ramp addition for the Forest. According to Banker, "The American Land Conservancy has been an essential partner to the Forest Service in acquiring key parcels of land for federal management in the past and we look forward to working with them in the future."

- more -

The joint efforts of the Forest and ALC to provide access for the public to the Mississippi and Big Muddy Rivers will help connect citizens to the land.