Profile of a Local Natural Area: Lapping Park in Clarksville, Indiana

Beyond the hustle and bustle of the holiday shopping scene in Clarksville, there is a park that provides sanctuary for both man and animal. Just minutes from Highway 131, you can find the Clarksville Parks Department Recreation Complex known as Lapping Park. The park is home to an 18-hole golf course, two softball diamonds, and a children’s playground. Among these recreational facilities is a wonderful woodland habitat. This natural area is along the banks of Silver Creek, and serves as a buffer for wildlife moving along the threatened waterway. With numerous beech snags, mature oaks, and fallen trees, the diverse structure of this woodland provides critical habitat to dozens of wildlife species.

Lapping Park has been a favorite among birding enthusiasts for many years. In the late 1970s, Knob and Valley Audubon Society (KAVAS) developed a bird checklist for Lapping Park. This extensive list attests to the variety of wildlife and habitat found in the park. With more than 30 species of wood warbler, seven different flycatchers, and seven woodpecker species found in the park, it is easy to understand the importance of this natural habitat to local and migratory birds. The diversity of habitat and bird species in Lapping Park makes it a regular stop on the annual KAVAS May Birdathon.

In 2001, KAVAS hopes to regenerate interest in Lapping Park with several chapter activities throughout the year. The first of these activities will be a Winter Woodpecker Hunt and Wildlife Hike on January 13. We hope you will bring your family for this short hike through the diverse habitat of Lapping Park as we search for winter wildlife. See the January Calendar of Events for more details.

Also in 2001, the KAVAS Conservation Committee is planning to develop a trail of nest boxes through Lapping Park that will include bluebird, wood duck, and screech owl boxes. We are looking for KAVAS members to assist with building the nest boxes, placing boxes in the park, and maintaining the nest boxes. If you are interested in assisting with this project, please contact Conservation Chair Rod Goforth at 812-945-6129.