HAWKINS — Jarvis Christian College cut the ribbon on its new nature trail Friday and got a boost with sunny skies and warm temperatures to encourage walkers. The two-mile trail cuts through woods with native plants, trees, wildlife and marsh lands.

"We hope this is going to be a teaching and research center," said Dr. James Goodwin. "Biology and science students can meet in the outdoor classroom, and area schools will be invited to use the facility. Scouts can enjoy the nature trail and study the plants and wildlife, too," he added.

The nature trail was named after Goodwin, who was instrumental in obtaining the $200,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department on behalf of Jarvis Christian College. The college has to match 25 percent of the grant. Goodwin said about $190,000 has been spent building the boardwalk, walking trail and outdoor classroom/pavilion.

The pavilion is adjacent to the north side of the Meyer Science and Math Building.

Jarvis officials said the trail is a work in progress, and this is just the beginning. The most outstanding feature is the 1,600-foot boardwalk over the marshland.

It is believed to be the longest boardwalk in Texas. There are several landings for enjoying water views and one is near the natural artesian well with a historic marker dedicated in 2008.

This project began in October. It took 19 months to get the permits from the Corp of Engineers. The gravel for the trail was brought in several weeks ago.

Master gardeners from Wood County are helping plan the installation of flowers. An Urban Medicinal Garden is planned and area native plants will be planted as well.

Rogers Creek runs beside part of the trail. Mesh insect traps hang in the trees. Visitors who hear a gobble, gobble, shouldn’t be surprised.

A pair of turkeys were spotted in the area, and Jarvis plans to protect them.

Posters on the pavilion walls show pictures of snakes and wildlife native to the area.

Jarvis plans to have the trail open to the public from 8 a.m. to approximately two hours before dark. The trail takes about an hour to walk. Hikers may need to sign in at the gate for a record of visitors entering.

Juan Merriweather, with the Texas Forest Service spoke at the event.