In keeping with the current trend of increasing community involvement in local conservation efforts, the Southern Conservation Trust (SCT) is proud to announce that the NeSmith Preserve recently received significant enhancements thanks to funding and hands-on support from the Rotary Club of Peachtree City. On Saturday, October 18, Rotary members joined SCT staff for a day of trail improvements, plantings, and installation of new amenities.

​The enhancements at NeSmith Preserve include:

• A new 0.10-mile trail
• Installation of a commercial-grade picnic table and metal trash can
• Planting of native shrubs
• Erosion control measures
• Installation of updated signage and an educational kiosk
• Trail maintenance, including boardwalk ​updates

"This project highlights the ongoing partnership between SCT and the Rotary Club of Peachtree City. These improvements will make NeSmith Preserve more welcoming, accessible, and educational for the community while preserving the natural beauty of this important wetland habitat, said Chris Doane, President & CEO, Southern Conservation Trust."

Community Support Makes a Difference

Volunteers from Starr’s Mill High School Technology Student Association and Panther Pickup also contributed to the project over the past month, helping mulch trails and support the preserve’s maintenance. Their dedication exemplifies the strong community commitment to local conservation and environmental education initiatives. 

A Legacy of Conservation at NeSmith Preserve

The NeSmith Preserve, part of a growing trend of privately donated lands for conservation, was generously donated in 2006 by the NeSmith family, protecting 120 acres of vital wetland and upland habitat near the Starr’s Mill school complex. Over the years, the Rotary Club of Peachtree City has been a steadfast supporter of the preserve and SCT, including:

• A donation in 2014 for infrastructure development
• Ribbon-cutting in 2015 for the opening of the 200-foot boardwalk, sampling platforms, spillway bridge, soft trails, and accessible entry ramps
• 2023 grant funding for field trips for Title I schools, benefiting 86 students from Spring Hill Elementary
• 2024 sponsorship of SCT's Trails for Troops program
• In 2024, volunteers helped construct a new footbridge at The Ridge Nature Area, another local preserve managed by SCT.

Enhancing Access and Visitor Experience

The preserve’s current entrance was difficult to locate, limiting access for new visitors. Revitalization activities included improved visibility and accessibility, along with amenities such as a picnic table, commercial trash bin, and clearly marked signage, ensuring that both recreational visitors and environmental education groups can enjoy the preserve safely and comfortably. The enhancements at NeSmith Preserve reinforce its role as a vital environmental resource and a Bird’s Georgia Wildlife Sanctuary, supporting both habitat preservation and community engagement. "It's a beautiful local gem'', stated Patti Kadkhodaian, past president of the Rotary Club of Peachtree City. She emphasized that outdoor areas provide numerous benefits, and collaborative, mutually beneficial partnerships are what truly enrich the community. For more information about NeSmith Preserve, visit https://www.sctlandtrust.org/nesmith-preserve.