A new wetland preserve designed to highlight stream restoration and environmental recovery is expected to open to the public within the next year.
Work continues at the Andrew James Wetland Preserve, located near the headwaters of the Bon Secour River. The Foley City Council recently approved construction of an access road that will allow visitors to reach the site once the project is complete.
The preserve is being developed as a publicly accessible passive recreation area within constructed stormwater wetlands. The project began as an effort to remove debris left by Hurricane Sally in 2020. Following cleanup efforts, the city moved forward with plans to establish a permanent wetlands reserve at the location.
The site serves multiple purposes, including floodwater mitigation, natural water quality treatment and wildlife habitat. The project is fully funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and is scheduled for completion in the 2027 fiscal year.
Leslie Gahagan, Foley sustainability and natural resources director, said the preserve is already demonstrating significant environmental benefits.
During heavy rains, the Bon Secour River flows into the wetlands, where natural processes help remove pollutants from the water. Over time, improved water quality has supported a thriving ecosystem that now includes waterfowl nesting areas, native wildflowers and a pond supporting fish populations.
Gahagan said the preserve will provide visitors with an opportunity to observe wildlife and learn about stream restoration and ecological recovery following a major storm event.
“This is a great opportunity to see stream restoration and the after effects,” she said. “This is probably one of the key ones that people come to see in the county.”
The approved access road project will include a small parking area capable of accommodating up to two buses, making the site accessible for educational groups and visitors.
The preserve is named in honor of Andrew James, an engineer who helped design the project and passed away in 2023.