Acadian Baptist Center is a Christian camping and retreat center located near Richard. Originally founded as Acadia Baptist Academy 1917-1974, the facility was reformed as Acadian Baptist Center in 1975. Neil and I were treated to a tour and history of the property by Director James Newsome, staff member Carson Ardoin, and volunteers Kenny Despain and Dickie Olivier. The group transformed ninety one acres of rural agricultural land into a diverse habitat connected by nature trails under the direction of James Newsome and dedicated volunteer Dickie Olivier and many others, including the Boy Scouts of America. Advice for the forest restoration was given by Andy Dolan of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Trails wind through now mature pines, hardwoods, pecan, mayhaw, hollies, and pawpaw providing habitat for local fauna and educational opportunities for all who walk them. Twelve years ago, a prairie restoration was initiated with expert advice from Drs. Malcolm Vidrine and Charles Allen. It is now a thriving pollinator habitat. More recently, the prairie restoration was expanded by including fallow land under the Entergy power lines. For ease of identification, massed plantings are labeled at focal points along the trails. Prairie grasses such as little bluestem, big bluestem, switch grass and gamma grass are highlighted as well as sturdy perennials such as Liatris, mountain mint and false indigo. Three ponds were created highlighting Louisiana iris and cypress trees. Benches are situated along the trails for rest and reflection. At the Nature Center nestled between the forest and prairie, a pavilion with picnic tables allows groups to gather surrounded by the beauty of nature. This gold level certified habitat is maintained by staff and volunteers at the center. Contact director James Newsome to see the property and walk the trails, and you can check them out on Facebook or abccamp.com. Facilities include an auditorium, cafeteria, campsites, cabins, frisbee golf course, and a swimming pool; all are available for your group at this rural oasis. Thank you Acadian Baptist Center for greauxing native!
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