Margaret Naetzker sought to permanently protect this site in memory of her husband, David. The intact forest on this site provide wildlife habitat, water filtration, and excellent opportunities for the public to enjoy a peaceful hike through the gallery of old mature oaks.

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• Size:  72.9 acres

• Year Conserved by CWC: 2016

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Conservation Values: The preserve’s forests allow rainwater to collect and slowly infiltrate, minimizing erosion and sedimentation downstream.  Trees protect and stabilize the bank of the unnamed creek that enters Goose Creek shortly after leaving the property. Water is filtered through riparian vegetation, improving water quality in the watershed.

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Recreational Use: A loop trail takes hikers up the slope, through the oaks and near the ravine. The Preserve is of interest for birders and botanists, with excellent diversity of both. Bowhunting is permitted, but permanent tree stands are prohibited.

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Location and Parking: Located on Route 474 west of Ashville Center

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Features of Interest: The gallery of large, mature oaks creates an excellent experience for visitors. Starting from the parking area, users can traverse the somewhat steep but thankfully short hike up the slope to the upland area of the Preserve where they will find an artificial wetland pond created in 2017. A large project was completed in 2017, where more than 1,000 native plants were installed, a parking area was created, and the trails were laid out.