SPARE America's Wildlands

Ozark Headwaters, Arkansas

The headwaters of two of Arkansas' nationally recognized Wild and Scenic Rivers, the Buffalo and Mulberry Rivers, flow from the Ozark Mountains in the heart of the Ozark National Forest. In this last remaining patch of old growth forest, drops of rainwater and gushing springs join forces to form the headwaters of these spectacular rivers.

Carpets of wildflowers grace the forest floor each spring and over forty species of hardwood trees arch over the hundreds of creeks, springs, rivulets and seeps that drain this huge uplifted and weathered landscape. The headwaters is home to black bear, mink, fox, bobcat, deer, coyotes and migratory songbirds. Located less than a one-hour drive from one of the fastest growing regions in the South, the headwaters area is an easily accessible escape for hikers, anglers and other river users.

Unfortunately, this headwaters area is threatened by logging and roadbuilding. The Forest Service insists on continued timber industry logging in the sensitive watersheds of the Buffalo and Mulberry Rivers. Some of the most scenic areas in the Ozark National Forest have already been logged, right up to the boundaries of the Upper Buffalo Wilderness.

The way to protect the Ozark headwaters is to designate the area as a Special Interest and Natural Research Area. The designation would end logging and road building in this wild and special place. The Sierra Club supports an end to all commercial logging in our National Forests, to protect water quality, fish and wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.

Photo courtesy Tom McKinney

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