Driving DirectionsWest tract: from Concordia, take Highway 23 south 5 miles.East tract north of Blackwater River: from Concordia, take Highway 23 south approximately 4 miles, then east on NE 1200, area begins where NE 1200 turns north.East tracts south of Blackwater River: from Sweet Springs, take Highwy 127 south, then Route NN west, and north on Blackwater Road, or west on Dunksburg Road. See map for additional access. HighlightsThis area contains forest, old fields, wetlands, cropland, and grassland. Facilities/features: primitive camping, firearms range, fishable ponds (13.7 acres total) and a permanent stream (Blackwater River). About This AreaThis area is named after the late Dr. Ralph Perry and his wife, Martha, who donated both land and money to create the conservation area. Unit 1 is located in southwestern Saline and northwestern Pettis counties. Unit 2 is in northeastern Johnson county with access provided by Highway 23.The area features a diversity of terrain and habitats, including crop fields, old-field habitat, wetlands, glades, woodlands, and both botomland and upland forest.Management of this 4,134-acre area includes mowing and controlled burning to maintain plant diversity in the open areas. Habitat plantings include shrubs, native grasses and trees, including two plantings of the Concordia oak, a rare three-way hybrid. Wetland management includes the seasonally flooding of more than 750 acres.A hiking trail consisting of two loops travels through varying habitats and provides access to several fishing lakes. Numerous small ponds and two lakes provide fishing opportunities. The Conservation Department stocks area waters with catfish, bass, redear sunfish and bluegill.Seasonal access to the Blackwater River is provided in Unit 1. Over seven miles of the Blackwater River flows through the area.