Clark Haven Farm is a working wildlife refuge home to many plant and animal species. It offers excellent opportunities for birding, butterfly watching, photography, and insect observation, as well as several hundred plant species, many of which are uncommon to rare in the area. In May, we should be able to see Monarch Butterflies on the abundant milkweeds. The refuge is approximately 37 acres, nearly evenly divided between Post Oak woodlands with ancient oaks and open prairie spaces. The soil type varies somewhat, but the surface layer is red, acidic, sandy soil. Some areas are rocky, and others have a red clay layer under the sandy surface soils. Shirley Lusk once told us, “There are things here I see no further East, and things here I see no further West, and you have it all!” She may have exaggerated some, but there really is a lot to see.
Known hazards include insects and spiders that may sting or bite; venomous snakes; scorpions; concealed animal burrows; tripping hazards; thorns; heat exposure; barbed wire; poison ivy; and uneven terrain. Participants must agree to acknowledge and accept the personal risks of participation. This is an unmanicured wild space.
PARKING is limited at the gate and the barn, and carpooling is advised if possible. Because of the soil quality, all vehicles must stay on the white rock road and parking pads, or risk getting truly stuck. Enter the gate, and follow the only road all the way to the barn. If the barn parking spaces fill up, we’ll have someone stationed near the gate to direct you to a parking spot.
BRING / WEAR Sturdy closed-toe shoes are strongly advised, as are bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, long pants, and water. While there is a faucet for washing hands, we don’t trust that water to drink. A bathroom (inside a travel trailer) is available. Those with limited mobility may choose to stay seated and enjoy the sights and sounds near the barn. We have some chairs available, but you may bring your own.
Sign Up Registration Link:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FA8A72AA3FAC52-63764562-clark
Society Members and Potential Members Only — 25 people maximum
Carpooling
12:00 pm- Meet at Fort Worth Botanic Garden
12:30 pm – Depart
2:00 pm – Arrive at Clark Haven Farm
6:00 pm – Depart
7:30 pm – Arrive back at FWBG
Volunteer to Drive: Contact Kim Conrow kim.conrow@npsot.org or text 817-320-4162
Chapter Contact: Kim Conrow Field Trip Chair, will send email to registrants on Saturday, May 2.
May 3 @ 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
LOCATION:
Meeting point will be emailed to registrants.
Carpooling from Fort Worth – Meet at 12:00pm
Travel time to the farm is 1.5 hours from Fort Worth.
