2. The Wehle Tract

Date of Purchase: October 28, 1994

Location: Bullock County; Township 12N, Range 22E,  Sections 28 & 29

Acreage: 1,505.5 Acres

The Wehle Tract was purchased with the reservation of a life estate from Mr. Robert and Mrs. Gatra Wehle. Eventually the property will be opened up to the public for wildlife conservation, environmental education and outdoor recreation.

The life estate means that the Wehles will be allowed to occupy, maintain, protect and improve the property until the passing of Mr. Wehle. For the time being the property is not available for unaccompanied visits or use by the public. However, the Wehles have funded the construction of the WEHLE NATURE CENTER on land they deeded to the State Lands Division. This center is currently available for use and enjoyment by appointment through the State Lands Division.

When the property is opened to the public, roughly a third of it will be added to the Barbour County Wildlife Management Area to increase acreage available for public hunting. The other 2/3rds of the property will be used for natural science education and non-consumptive recreational activities such as nature study, photography, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding and general field related activities.