Home >> Projects >> David Henry Hardigree Wildlife Sanctuary

Of all the worthwhile projects the Council is involved with, none has the emotional appeal and interest as does the David Henry Hardigree Wildlife Sanctuary.  It is quickly becoming the "Crown Jewel" of the RC&D project list simply because it belongs to the RC&D Council.

In 1992, Vivian Ward, granddaughter of David Henry Hardigree, and the Oconee River RC&D entered into an agreement that created a wildlife sanctuary on approximately 83 acres just south of Watkinsville in Oconee County.  The agreement also provides for Council funding of the Polly Hardigree Ward Scholarship, which provides college tuition to a deserving Oconee County student.  The land under agreement not only serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, but is also a working agricultural farm used to grow hay, oats, wheat, and other grasses and grains that attract wildlife to the site.  The Council has developed a wildlife management plan that will be implemented over a number of years.  

Immediate efforts in the sanctuary have focused on planning and planting wildlife habitat, and providing educational and training opportunities for youth and USDA personnel.  The Council participates in the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service's  Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) and Wildlife Incentives for Nongame and Game Species (WINGS) Project developed by Georgia's Two Rivers RC&D Council to accomplish its goals.  Current focus points include wildlife food plots, deer feeders, wildflower plots, bird and duck boxes, and a butterfly garden.  Planning is underway to construct a pavilion to provide a comfortable setting for hosting various educational and social events organized by the Council.