523 - Cross Ranch Preserve

The Cross Ranch Nature Preserve is located here along the only free-flowing section of the Missouri River in North Dakota. The river is bordered by some of the most extensive floodplain forests left in our state. Farther away from the river are uplands that are covered by mixed-grass prairie that is similar to what was viewed by Lewis and Clark when the Corps of Discovery passed through the area in 1804. Although the Natural flow of the river has been greatly altered by the operation of Lake Sakakawea, several endangered species are found in the river and along its banks. Least terns, piping plovers, and fall-migrating whooping cranes still use the sandbars in the river, pallid sturgeon cruise it’s channels and bald eagles fish the waters.

The total size of the Cross Ranch Preserve is 5,593 acres. Adjacent to the Missouri River and within its former floodplain are riparian woodlands and forest. This community is dominated by declining populations of cottonwoods and willows, and needs regular flooding to reproduce and renew, but management of the river’s flow largely prevents spring flooding. Green ash, boxelder, and American elm are increasing in abundance as the cottonwoods die off.

The Nature Conservancy maintains bison herds in the central and south units of the ranch. These are wild animals and should not be approached. Birdwatchers should be on the lookout for Sprague’s Pipit and Baird’s sparrows, both are declining grassland species.

They say if you look deep into nature, you will understand everything better. Enjoy it.