24. The Grand Bay Savanna Addition Tract

Grand Bay Savanna Addition Tract

Date of purchase: November 18, 2002

Location: T7S, R3W, parts of Sections 33 and 39; and T8S, R3W, Sections 3 and 4

Acreage: 662

THE GRAND BAY SAVANNA ADDITION TRACT in Mobile County consists of 662 acres, which were acquired with financial support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through the National Coastal Wetlands Program. This tract serves as an addition to the property acquired in 1996, all of which is being managed primarily for the preservation and restoration of species and communities endemic to or dependent upon the Coastal Lowlands of Alabama. This tract as well as the previously purchased Grand Bay Savanna Tract will compliment the existing Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

The Grand Bay Savanna Tract consists of coastal marsh, maritime forest and piney flatwoods. These habitat provide excellent food and cover for many plant and animal species. The Coastal Marsh provides essential food and cover for over 90% of marine fishes. This wetland ecosystem acts as a nursery for species like the spotted seatrout, red drum, flounder, blue crab and shrimp.

The spring and summer months present best times to view beautiful wild flowers unique to coastal lowlands. The fall and winter months provide excellent opportunity for bird watching.

The Grand Bay Savanna Tract is in Mobile County adjacent Grand Bay, Pointe Aux Pines Peninsula, and Portersville Bay. The two closest municipalities are Bayou La Batre, located immediately to the east, and Grand Bay, located to the northwest of the property. There are two public roads which provide access to the property, Henderson Camp Road on the western side, and Marine Laboratory Road to the east.

The use of all terrain vehicles is prohibited. No camping is allowed.