Shaw Nature Reserve
Shaw Nature Reserve, formerly known as Shaw Arboretum, is a 2,400 acres (9.7 km2) private nature reserve located in Gray Summit, Missouri, that is operated as an extension of the Missouri Botanical Garden.
The first piece of land, 1,300 acres (5.3 km2), was purchased in 1925 when pollution from coal smoke in St. Louis threatened the Garden's live plant collection, especially the orchid collection. The orchids were moved to what was then known as the Gray Summit Extension in 1926. The pollution in St. Louis decreased with waning use of coal for heat, making it unnecessary to move the rest of the live plant collection. The Garden made five more land purchases between 1926-1977 amounting to the Nature Reserve's current size of 2,444 acres (9.89 km2). The Nature Reserve is currently dedicated to environmental education, to the maintenance and restoration of the region's native flora and fauna, and to public enjoyment of the natural world.
Shaw Nature Reserve has several historic homes (including the Joseph H. Bascom House), a large tallgrass prairie, and a wetland blind from which herons can be observed. The Nature Reserve is also home to the Whitmire Wildflower Garden, a 3 acres (0.012 km2) Missouri native garden with over 500 native plant species. Over 17 miles (27 km) of hiking trails run through the Nature Reserve.
Shaw Nature Reserve is open year-round but is closed on some major holidays. Hours of operation for September 1–30: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., October 1–March 31: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and April 1–August 31: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Visitor Center is open during the regular operating hours listed above. No pets or smoking are allowed on the grounds. No reservations are required except in the case of an organized tour and for those wishing to participate in an education program.
External links
38°28′55″N 90°49′27″W / 38.482032°N 90.824103°W
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