Doin' What Comes Naturally

   It's about to happen. I know it is. I saw the blueprints and the brochures. I even walked the soon-to-be trail for Mill Creek Nature Center by the Mall of Georgia. 
   Now to do this, I had to scale down a 200-foot cliff, climb over two silt fences, trample down a thousand weeds and break through a dozen spider webs. And then I was only able to do this with Andrew Schock, a conservationist from the Georgia Wildlife Federation, leading the way. So I wouldn't recommend trying this on your own just yet. However, if you'd like to be part of blazing this trail, volunteer opportunities abound.
   Five years ago when the Mall of Georgia opened, a nearby nature trail was part of the master plan. Developers Scott Hudgens and Ben Carter and the Simon Group of MOG donated 88 acres to the Georgia Wildlife Federation to develop into a "hands-on" nature center and trail. MOG also provided office space in the mall to facilitate GWF's operations. Now after years of research and planning, the project is ready for development.
   The welcome center, designed by architect Garland Reynolds, will be a "hutt" 22 feet by 22 feet that reflects the culture of the Muscogee Indians who lived on the Gwinnett side of the Chatahoochee River. A deck will overlook nature trails and boardwalks that meander through wetlands below, home to wildlife including deer, otters, herons, ducks and bobcats. At the bottom of the trail, a lookout tower will heighten visitors' appreciation of the surroundings. 
   The groundwork is in place. Projected time of opening is early 2004. But to meet the goal, GWF needs community support and involvement. Laura Bryant, Director of Education for the MCNC, has lots of opportunities for individuals or groups who want to be part of this new adventure.
   The kick off cleaning and clearing activity, led by Rivers Alive, will begin Saturday morning, October 18. About 80 people, including Cub Scout Pack 511, Boy Scout Troop 511, and Brownie troops 1414 and 145 have already stepped up figuratively-and, yes, literally-to clear away cobwebs. And Adam Owensby will put out birdhouses as part of his Eagle Scout project. If you can't make it that day, MCNC will still need volunteers until the project is complete.
   If you prefer a more glamorous role, opportunity knocks. MCNC needs speakers to educate the public about wetlands, wildlife and watersheds and to teach at special events at MOG prior to opening. If this seems more natural for you, the next training session is October 29. (If any Toastmasters are reading this, here is a great opportunity to get in some outside speeches.)
   You can see the sight for yourself at the groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, October 6 at 10:00 a.m. For more information, call 770-614-0562 or visit www.MillCreekNC.org .
   Come see what's shaping up. Or better yet, help shape it. Seems to me, that's a more natural thing to do.

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