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In 1989 the developers of the Riss Lake project donated 49 acres of land at the base of the dam to the City of Parkville
and $25,000 seed money to develop it as a nature Sanctuary. In 1992 Jim Reed was asked to form a Parkville Nature Sanctuary Committee to develop and manage the property
With help from a Missouri Department of Conservation naturalist, trails were laid out to make the area accessible
with minimal impact on the land and wildlife habitat. Through the help of many volunteers, Scout troops, service groups and the Sanctuary committee, the trails became a reality.
Bridges were built across White Alloe Creek, boardwalks constructed over swampy areas, and erosion control devices
incorporated in the trails to minimize damage from human activities.
During 1997 the Missouri Department of Conservation purchased 68 acres adjacent to the Sanctuary and designated
it as the White Alloe Creek Conservation Area. This added a beautiful forested area and more than doubled the area managed by the Parkville Nature Sanctuary Committee.
Later the "Bluebird Trail" was cleared according to ADA standards to facilitate access for those with moderate
restrictions on their mobility. The trail system was expanded with the "White Tail Trail" to incorporate the new Conservation area,
the longest trail at 1.3 miles. Many Eagle Scout projects have enhanced the accessibility of the White Tail Trail with trail
improvements such as graveled paths, wood steps and switchbacks.
The old Girl Scout Cabin location was preserved and restored as a gathering area and in 1999 was fitted with
an award-winning shelter roof designed by Kelly Batcheller. Still boasting its original brick fireplace, it has become a favorite location for many gatherings including the
enormously popular Halloween "Family Ghost Story Night".
Jim Reed, who became the first Director of the Parkville Nature Sanctuary regularly conducts highly successful nature walks and arranges for other naturalists to lead hikes. Come and enjoy the Parkville Nature Sanctuary with us.
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