Page 105 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Spring, 2025

While at PRAC, walk the
trails and view many species of native plants. The list can include Yaupon, holly, live oak, various marsh grasses, wax myrtle, wild azaleas, red cypress, magnolia, elderberry, water oaks, red maple, several species of pine plus American beautyberry, cattails, Virginia creepers and native flowers.
A person walking out on the bayou pier might spot alligators during the warmer months or gallinules, herons, egrets, terns, various shorebirds, and other fowl. Visitors might also see waterfowl during the winter. In the woods or along the shorelines, look for opossums, squirrels, foxes, rabbits, raccoons, turtles, and other creatures.
downstream to the sawmill. A trolley line was used to carry workers to the sawmill. Near the Arthur Street entrance, people can see a replica of an old trolley ticket booth.
“This place is all about connecting the past to the future,” Rodgers says. “This area has a long history tied to the timber industry. The owners branded their logs so that once they reached the mill, people would know who owned it. There is an original branded log at Sawmill Landing Park right around the corner from the center.”
Due to the abundance of wildlife that still exists nearby, PRAC preserves that wild heritage. Owned by the National Audubon Society, the center focuses on protecting birds and preserving their habitats.
“The center is the educational gateway to exploring nature and bayou habitats by offering educational programming while featuring local nature themes,” Rodgers says. “It’s a step back in time. Visitors can relax in nature, listen to and view many different kinds of birds, and enjoy the biodiversity.”
Besides nature, people can tour the art gallery. Many people use the facilities for reunions, rehearsal dinners, and other special events. The art gallery holds 60 people and The River Room holds another 40 guests. People can also gather outside to listen to music on a small stage at times.
The center stays open all year long except on national holidays. For more information, call 228.475.0825 or visit pascagoula.audubon.org.
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SPRING 2025 I PLAY COASTAL MISSISSIPPI 105