We’ve gotten so many questions about the status of the Fannye Cook Natural Area (FCNA) in Flowood, Mississippi so we thought it was time for an update! Check back here for regular updates regarding FCNA and all the great things coming to the Jackson Metro area!
Progress at Fannye Cook
To date Wildlife Mississippi has:
- Improved 7.1 miles of road throughout the property providing access to planned non-motorized trailheads
- Installed a flat deck rail car bridge to access a portion of the property that was not previously accessible
- Constructed 13 small parking areas at planned non-motorized trailheads
- Installed 25 benches along the roads
- Constructed a maintenance facility
- Cleared and opened approximately 17 miles of non-motorized trails (not fully
developed for use)
Within the next year, Wildlife Mississippi has plans to relocate the main entrance road in preparation for facilities to be constructed, build one small craft boat ramp in the Pearl River, and develop crossings on nearly 4 miles of trails. Benches, shelters, viewing blinds, and viewing platforms will also be constructed along some trails.
Upcoming Plans
A Conservation Education Complex (CEC) will be located on about 10 acres at the entrance to the FCNA. This Complex will consist of a lake, amphitheater, visitors center with a field lab, an event pavilion, museum building to include a conservation heritage museum, museum of North American and African Wildlife, and a center for outdoor writing, photography, and art. We anticipate breaking ground on the CEC in 2026. This, however, is subject to change based on funding, city and county building permits, weather conditions, and many other unforeseen issues that may present themselves to us.
Are you interested in learning more about FCNA and all the amazing opportunities that will soon be a reality in Flowood? Don’t hesitate to reach out!
Interested in supporting the work of Wildlife Mississippi and the Fannye Cook Natural Area? Send us an email! We’d love to chat!
mhitt@wildlifemiss.org
