E.L. Huie Ponds
The E. L. Huie Jr. Holding Pond Complex is a storage area for excess treated wastewater that the Huie constructed wetlands site cannot handle. There are five ponds, four of which have varying levels of water depending on the time of year and recent rainfall events. The habitat is used by a variety of waterfowl species in the winter including Blue and Green-winged Teal, Northern Shovelers, Northern Pintails, American Wigeons, Mallards, and Gadwall.
About This Site
Hours
Amenities
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Admission Fee | ✕ |
| Lodging | ✕ |
| Visitor or Nature Center | ✕ |
| Restrooms | ✕ |
| Drinking Fountain or Potable Water | ✕ |
| Trails | ✕ |
| Boardwalk | ✕ |
| Camping | ✕ |
| RV Hookups | ✕ |
| Picnic Area | ✕ |
| Kayaking or Canoeing | ✕ |
It is a foraging ground for raptor species such as Bald Eagle, Osprey, Merlin, American Kestrel, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Great Horned Owl. Be on the lookout for shorebirds, various wading birds, and the occasional rarity when visiting. Some lucky visitors also see river otters, coyotes, grey foxes, and many, many turtles.
Newman Wetlands Center is an excellent place to see wildlife. We maintain our facility with wildlife viewing as a top priority. We want our visitors to experience wildlife in a wild setting, which is why we have strict site rules. Visiting NWC is always free. If you’re looking for details about wildlife viewing on our other properties, scroll down.
Featured Birds
American Kestrel
Bald Eagle
Blue-winged Teal
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Eastern Meadowlark
Hooded Merganser
Little Blue Heron
Loggerhead Shrike
Marsh Wren
Red-headed Woodpecker
Sandhill Crane
Wood Duck
Yellow-breasted Chat
On the average day, a guest might see painted turtles basking on a log, dragonflies showing off their flight skills, or a Great Egret foraging along Pate’s Creek. Some guests are lucky enough to spot a deer or a Belted Kingfisher. Even luckier visitors might spot a river otter playing or a beaver repairing their dam.
We recommend bringing binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. If you don’t have either, you can still enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife. When staff is available, guests may borrow a pair of 8 x 10 Vortex binoculars to use on site.
CCWA Wildlife Viewing Permits Pricing
The CCWA Wildlife Viewing Permits allow permit holders to observe wildlife at E.L. Huie Holding Ponds and Shamrock, Blalock, & JW Smith Reservoirs. Wildlife Viewing Plus Permit holders are invited on private tours of the Huie Constructed Treatment Wetlands and other non-public areas for birding and wildlife photography opportunities. Permit holders may not enter closed or non-public areas on CCWA. Permits are valid for one year from month of purchase (Ex: If purchased March 3, 2024, a permit would be valid through March 31, 2025). Purchase at Newman Wetlands Center during open hours.
Wildlife Viewing – Day
Access only
Wildlife Viewing
Access only
Wildlife Viewing Plus
Access + guided field trips
Payments
Cash or credit card accepted.
Usage
Each permit can be used for up to five people in one vehicle. The permit holder must be in the vehicle.
Liability
Each permit holder must read and complete a hold harmless form.
Display
Permits must be hanging from the rear view mirror with information facing out.
Photo Gallery
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