TUPELO– Experience the history and ecology of the people, plants, and animals that are part of the Mississippi Blackland Prairie. Join a ranger on Saturday, June 13, 2015, at 9:00 a.m. at the Chickasaw Village Site. Delve into the beauty of Mississippi’s native Blackland Prairie on this one hour program that will take participants on a short walk through a prairie remnant and hardwood forest.
“The Blackland Prairie is one of the many wonderful natural resources protected within 
the park boundary. Fire and ash have helped form the rich top layer of soil which contributes to the beautiful array of prairie flowers,” said Park Ranger Kathryn Davis, who will lead the hike. “Bring your own binoculars to get a chance to see brilliant blue indigo buntings, or a camera to capture the royal purple of prairie clover.”
Participants may borrow one of a limited number of binoculars. There is no shade on the prairie. Visitors are encouraged to bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Comfortable, close-toed shoes are also recommended.
This program is free. The Chickasaw Village Site is located at milepost 261.8 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, near Tupelo, Mississippi. For more information about this and other Parkway programs, please visit our website at www.nps.gov/natr, or call 1-800-305-7417.
MEDIA RELEASE/Office of the Superintendent, Natchez Trace Parkway
