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The Preserve consists of nine land units and six water corridors encompassing 86,428 federal and 10,766 non-federal acres (97,191 total acres). The Preserve was established October 11, 1974 to protect an area of rich biological diversity.
A convergence of ecosystems occurred here during the last Ice Age. It brought together, in one geographical location, the eastern hardwood forests, the Gulf coastal plains, and the midwest prairies.
In 1981, the Preserve was designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program.Desginations
October 11, 1974 - National Preserve
December 15, 1981 - UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
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