Our Nature Preserve

Wannamaker Nature Preserve is a 529 +/- acre tract in Calhoun County, SC that is owned and managed by Midlands Nature and Bird Alliance. The property has many features that attract a wide range of flora and fauna. The preserve was assembled from an bequest from John Wannamaker of 422 acres plus a subsequent arms-length purchase of 107 adjoining acres.

With land ownership, we are also responsible for being good stewards of the land. We have plenty of special and recurring tasks that require volunteer participation from all of our members. We constantly work toward the goal of making our Preserve a pristine environment for all wildlife. 

Routine management decisions are made by the Wannamaker Working Group, which is open to anyone interested in participating. If you are interested in volunteering, email us at midlandsnaturebirdalliance@gmail.com

Wannamaker Ground Rules:

• Access to this property is limited to active dues-paying Members of Midlands Nature and Bird Alliance(“MNBA”). Guests and Associates must be accompanied by a dues-paying Member. Associates are encouraged to become Members if they plan on or find themselves to be repeat visitors.

• Absolutely no pets are allowed. Service animals are allowed, but emotional support animals are not allowed. Any service animal must remain on a leash at all times and is expected to respect wildlife.

• Permissible activities on the property include:

  • Scientific research approved by the MNBA Board

  • Observing nature, which includes birdwatching and other observation of plants and animals. Removal of any materials other than trash from the property requires MNBA Board approval.

  • Productive work such as trail maintenance, organized trash pickup, forestry management, and other activities. All such activities require advance approval from the MNBA Board.

  • Conservation themed community events and MNBA sponsored meetings. Any such event must have prior approval by the MNBA Board and require the MNBA Board’s involvement in planning.

• Gates should remain locked at all times.

• The road system is to be used for maintenance vehicles only. Visitors should park outside of the locked gates and proceed on foot. If there is a need to gain access through any locked gate, a MNBA Board member may grant access. No motorized vehicles (including motorbikes, ATV, golf carts, etc) are allowed on the property without express consent of the MNBA Board.

• You are responsible for your own safety. This is a wild place and is home to hazardous plants and animals. By entering this property, you assume all risks. MNBA and the MNBA Board shall bear no responsibility for any bodily harm to any member or guest.

• Any violation of these rules should be reported to the MNBA Board.

This property is maintained for the benefit of wildlife. Respect this place as their home in which you are a visitor. It is not a park. Our objective is to maintain a property for birdwatchers by birdwatchers. Make every effort to minimize your impact on the resident flora and fauna. Harassing, hunting, or injuring animals, even animals considered dangerous, is strictly forbidden.

The MNBA Board reserves the right to revoke visitation privileges to any individual or the entire membership for any reason, including disrespect or abuse of this property. Egregious conduct could further result in loss of MNBA membership or recourse at the discretion of the MNBA Board. The foremost priorities of the MNBA Board are to respect the wishes in the original property bequest and maintain the property for the benefit of wildlife.

Revised January 10, 2023