Off of FM 1988, on Recreational Road No. 5 next to Lake Livingston Dam and hydroelectric plant, you will find a 33-acre tract of uncultivated land which is the Gazebo Nature Preserve. It is sometimes mistakenly called a park.
So, what is the difference? They are different in what they are, what their purpose is, what activities they provide, and the efforts that go into maintaining them.
It can be said the primary difference is that parks are designed to provide recreation for people. They require resources and labor to build ball parks, playgrounds, or swimming pools. A nature preserve remains what it is, and our duty is to conserve, maintain, and protect the flora, fauna, and natural features of it. The features of a park entertain people.
A nature preserve provides opportunity for study, research, wildlife observations, or relaxation in its beauty. It provides habitat for wildlife. Activities include hiking, birdwatching, or walking your leashed dog.
Maintaining and improving a nature preserve requires work. Invasive plants must be removed while restoring native habitats. Natural surface trails are built and maintained.
Activities such as nature-based programs can be provided to bring people into the preserve and introduce them to its natural wonder. Parks are not typically very diverse, and you won’t find a lot of different animals and plants in them. Nature preserves, on the other hand, are filled with different kinds of birds, bugs, and plants.
The Gazebo Nature Preserve clearly falls under the nature preserve category. Our focus for it is conservation. It is home to many species of plants, flowers, insects, wildlife, and birds. An early morning visitor may be gifted with a sighting of a bald eagle and an osprey that frequent the preserve. There are more waterfowl than you can count. Bluebird boxes have attracted bluebird families. Deer have left their footprints throughout.
A quarter-mile paved loop is provided to enhance observing the preserve. The gazebo is also a great place for watching the waterfowl.
Activities such as Get Your Steps In that take place in the spring and fall, along with water ecology classes taught by the Piney Wood Lakes Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist provide excellent opportunities for folks to become acquainted with the preserve.
The people of Polk and surrounding counties are indeed fortunate to have this preserve at Lake Livingston. Come see for yourself and enjoy a little bit of nature.
