Marshall Ridge Area
The Michael Wolff Memorial Wetland at Marshall Ridge was dedicated on Friday April 28, 2006. Contributions, archery 
tournaments, candle sales, local raffles and a generous grant from North American Wetland (NAWCA) made Michael's dream a reality. Earthwork was completed during the summer, 2007 while construction of the viewing area was completed during the summer of 2008. This two year plan included a parking lot, viewing platform, interpretative signage and other infrastructure. Many trees were planted, a kiosk was placed and mother nature provided more water than anticipated. The ducks came, the shore birds came and the song birds are enjoying the new environment. Many species of wildlife have been observed in this new found habitat. Yes, the tourist have come and enjoyed this new wetland as well. No doubt, next year duck hunters will access a portion the the area.
The Michael Wolff Memorial Wetland (approximately 100 acres) is a tributary of the Little Black Slough which contains 1,400 acres of high quality bald cypress and tupelo swamp. The area is sandwiched between three natural divisions - Mississippi River alluvial plain, Ozark Hills, and the Interior Low Plateau. The results include rich wetland and aquatic habitat essential for migratory waterfowl, neotropical migrant songbirds and wading birds.
From the Illinois Birder's Forum Via eBird it is reported that an Anhinga has been sited at the Michael Wolff Memorial Wetland.. This is one of the only state records of this. Rare indeed for the anhinga to be seen this far north.
"Build it and they will come".
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