It was declared a National Natural Landmark in May 1976[1] and a Botanical Area by the Forest Service in 1980.

[2] There are 68 identified prairies in the National Forest, locally called cedar fields, which avoided agriculture development due to their purchase by lumber companies.

[3] The alkaline soils (pH greater than 7.5) of the Maytag series ensure unique ecosystems unlike the nearby woodlands of Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda).

), Rosepink (Sabatia angularis), Smooth Oxeye (Heliopsis helianthoides), Little-leaved Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum tenuifolium) and Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa).

[3] Since it is a nature preserve, there is a leave no trace policy to protect the rare species.