Waterfowl and migrating shorebirds

The area is roughly 55% upland and 45% bottomland. There are small glades, hardwoods, and old fields. The old channel of the South Grand, intermittent streams, ponds and the 14 wetland management pools make up 2,500 acres of wetlands.

The wetlands are designated “opportunistic.” That is, there are water control structures, but no pumps. Water levels are dependent on rainfall. It is a good idea to check conditions when planning a waterfowl or shorebird focused birding trip to Settles’ Ford.

A 3.4 mile loop hiking trail through bottomland woods is accessed from a parking area near the south end of McColloh Rd. Birding can be good from along field roads (foot traffic only).