The David Henry Hardigree Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1992, is located on Old Greensboro Road just .4 mile outside Watkinsville. It is a private, non-profit organization with 501(c)3 charity status. The Sanctuary was established by Ms. Vivian Ward and named in honor or her grandfather who was a life-long resident of Oconee County. The Sanctuary is 88 acres of natural habitat, a perfect sett
ing for outdoor education programs and a wildlife sanctuary. Amenities include restrooms, a picnic pavilion for members and guests, and a one acre pond for fishing with a foot bridge at one end. Although not fully functional at this time, programs are being conducted which include (but not limited to): fishing, archery, nature hikes, bird watching, tree identification, firearm safety, reptiles, tree climbing, conservation, building bird houses, wildlife observation, and so much more. Populated with deer, wild turkey, rabbits, possums, bobcats, many bird species, snakes, and a lot more - a true wild place for sure - bring a picnic and enjoy nature, take photographs, read, bird watch, or just do nothing. Experience Oconee's 'best kept secret'. The Sanctuary is a perfect place for school field trips, home school groups, family picnics, group camping, scouts, 4-H & FFA competitions, teacher workshops, birthday parties, youth groups, corporate outings, etc. A grass roots group of volunteers is working diligently to establish nature trails and a camping site. Several Boy Scout Eagle projects will provide seating in the outdoor chapel, benches outside the restrooms, an outdoor classroom on the nature trail, and a footbridge to cross a stream. Future projects include: parking area; outdoor classrooms; plant wildlife food plots and build viewing stations; picnic areas; butterfly gardens; houses for bluebirds, butterflies, bats, owls, and ducks; restore the old barn; landscaping; footbridge from parking to restrooms; and a Resource Education Center.
