Briarwood Nature Preserve celebrated a momentous occasion at its Spring Picnic April 1. It unveiled the plaque which will mark the 200-acre nature conservatory as a location on the National Register of Historic Places.

The nomination was drafted by Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. staff in coordination with the members of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve.

Caroline Dormon made monumental contributions to the conservation of Louisiana’s natural and cultural resources. Her passion for native plants and old-growth forests, coupled with a strong feeling of kinship with Native Americans, shaped Dormon’s life and work. In the 1920s and 1930s, she was instrumental in persuading the US Forest Service to establish a national forest, now known as Kisatchie National Forest.

The beautiful spring weather was the perfect setting for a picnic as board members visited with the community, all while being serenaded by music from the Back Porch Band. Tickets were drawn for door prizes and the grand prize of an overnight stay at the Writer’s Cabin. Prizes were donated by Maglieaux’s Riverfront Restaurant, Merci Beaucoup and other local restaurants and businesses.

Board members include Gladden Willis, Mary Guidry, Richard Johnson, Daniel Murchison, John Dillon, John Geiser III, Rose Johnson, Evelyne Taylor, Burton Weaver, Mary White, Betsy Cochran, James Durham, Julie Callihan, Marion Bienvenu, Chris Evans, Joe Stamey, Marjorie Thomas, Ginger Weaver, Arthur Williams and Emily Wofford.