On January 12, 2026, the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund (MOSTF) Board of Trustees met and unanimously approved more than $13.6 million in funding for 20 conservation and outdoor recreation projects statewide as part of the 2025 Project Application Cycle- including $2.3 million for the City of Olive Branch’s Lick Creek Conservatory and Recreational Area.
Lick Creek Conservatory and Recreational Area will be located on a 48.43-acre City-Owned property located just north of the George Harrison Soccer Complex on Church Road. This project will construct a lake with overlook, kayak facility, Raptor Education Center, access drive, and parking- bringing new water access, wildlife programming, and passive recreation to Olive Branch.
Outdoor recreation contributes $11.6 billion annually to Mississippi’s economy and this project expands equitable access to kayaking, birding, fishing, and conservation education while restoring riparian habitat and enhancing water quality.
As part of a $14.9 million four-phase master plan, this project advances the City of Olive Branch’s goals of stewardship, connection of recreation assets, and delivers lasting ecological, educational, and economic impact to North Mississippi. Over the course of development, Lick Creek Conservatory and Recreational Area will additionally add a wooden boardwalk walking trail, outdoor classroom, and an 11,000 sq. ft. education center for both educational and recreational activities.
Through a highly competitive process, state agencies, municipalities, and conservation organizations submitted proposals that were carefully scored using criteria established by the Mississippi Legislature in the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Act.
Thanks to continued legislative support, funding such as MOSTF allows Mayor Ken Adams and the Board of Aldermen to create a generational space for the greater Olive Branch community nestled in the geographical center of the City and allows continued investment in wildlife and fisheries conservation, and nature-based outdoor recreation in North Mississippi.
