Little Rock’s newest cultural destination opened last Friday.  The William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands is an immersive urban wetland (which sounds like an oxymoron).  On the banks of the Arkansas River, the Bill Clark Wetlands allows visitors to meander through nature as well as witness the natural restorative process of water purification.  Nestled between two bridges, it is a serene break from the hustle and bustle that surrounds it.  It is named in memory of Bill Clark, who was a builder of physical structures as well as character and good causes.  A statue of Mr. Clark in hunting attire is placed on the edge of the wetlands.  In this statue he is not only looking for birds on a hunt but also at one his projects, the Clinton Library.

To the west of the Clark wetlands is another relatively new cultural institution which celebrates nature: the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, which is a project of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.  Opened in December 2008 and named in honor of a former G&FC commissioner, this nature center highlights the many outdoor recreational opportunities provided by Arkansas’ fish and wildlife resources provide. There are several interactive exhibits, aquariums, a theatre and educational programs.  The Stephens Nature Center is open from 8:30 to 4:30 on Tuesdays through Saturdays and from 1:00 to 5:00 on Sundays.   Admission is free; the Center is funded through the 1/8 cent Conservation sales tax.

This month the Nature Center is offering the following programs:

Saturday, October 8 at 2pm

• Li’l Wild Ones: Nature Stories and Activities

Saturday, October 15 from 10am to 3pm

• Wildlife Photography