
Tracy Sells: Guardian of Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve
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If you know about Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, you may be tempted to keep it a secret. Hidden away in the dense forests just north of the Poarch Creek Indian Reservation, Magnolia Branch offers a tranquil escape into nature. But there’s more to this place than just its natural beauty. It stands as a living testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Poarch Creek Indians, who reclaimed and revitalized this vast piece of sacred land.
Today, the reserve isn’t just a sanctuary for wildlife. It’s a living monument to the Poarch Creek Indians’ journey of survival and resurgence. Spanning over 900 acres, the reserve provides a diverse ecosystem, from hardwood forests and wetlands to open meadows. The natural landscape of Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve is wonderfully varied. It features pitcher plant bogs, which host several species of carnivorous plants, and habitats for endangered butterflies. The Poarch Creek Indians actively engage in environmental stewardship, ensuring the land stays vibrant and bountiful.
One person who takes that stewardship personally is Tracy Sells. The Tribe bought the land in 2004, and Tracy was there when it opened to the public in 2006. Now managed by the Tribe’s Natural Resources Department, Magnolia Branch welcomes more than 30,000 visitors each year. While the Natural Resources Department was formed in 2017, its roots go back hundreds of years to the Tribe’s beginnings in Alabama. Respecting natural resources and sharing them with neighbors is an integral part of the Poarch Creek Indians’ tradition.
Tracy Sells is more than just the Manager of Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve; she is its heart and soul. Her journey with the reserve began at its inception, and over the years, she has become deeply intertwined with its growth and development. “When we first started, it was tribal elder Billy Smith’s vision—a dream of what this land could become again,” Tracy recalls. “Now, seeing families enjoy the trails, children learning about nature, and people finding peace here, it’s beyond fulfilling.”
Prior to PCI repurchasing the land, it had been held in private hands for more than a century. This was the case for many Native American lands once European settlers moved into North America. Once a vibrant gathering place along the banks of Big Escambia Creek, cherished by generations of Creek people, this area eventually fell silent and sat dormant for years, to be enjoyed only by friends and family of the private owners. Today, Tracy Sells envisions improvements that will make the most remote parts of the landscape accessible to visitors from around the country. She sees a footbridge crossing the creek, leading to spectacular views that may not have been enjoyed for decades. While current improvements have made all sorts of recreational opportunities available to visitors, she also understands that overdevelopment could compromise the site’s natural beauty.
“Finding the balance is key,” Tracy explains. “We want people to experience the beauty and history of Magnolia Branch, but we also need to protect it. It’s a delicate dance between making the reserve accessible and preserving its pristine condition.” This philosophy guides every decision made at the reserve, from the maintenance of hiking trails to the introduction of new recreational activities.

Tracy leads a small team that is passionate about preserving nature and making it accessible for all. They do everything from maintaining the hiking trails to keeping the horse stable and camping areas clean. “It’s a team effort,” she emphasizes. “Everyone here cares deeply about this land and what it represents. We’re not just working; we’re honoring the cultural heritage of the Tribe.”
Under Tracy’s leadership, the reserve has flourished. Visitors can enjoy a myriad of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, and camping. “We see families come back year after year, and it’s wonderful to watch their kids grow up exploring these same woods and streams,” Tracy says with a smile. “We’ve even had local churches hold baptisms in Big Escambia Creek, continuing traditions that date back generations for Creek people along these banks.”
One of the most popular attractions at Magnolia Branch is the network of horse trails. “The horse trails are something special,” Tracy notes. “Riding through these woods, you really get a sense of the history and the beauty of this land. It’s a different kind of connection with nature.” The reserve also boasts a well-maintained stable, ensuring that riders and the horses they bring have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
For those who prefer water-based activities, Magnolia Branch offers canoeing and kayaking, both available for rent, on Big Escambia Creek. “There’s something incredibly peaceful about being on the water,” Tracy says. “Paddling along the creek, surrounded by nature, it’s easy to forget the worries of everyday life.”
Camping at Magnolia Branch is another favorite. The reserve provides facilities for both tent campers and RV travelers. “Our campgrounds are well-equipped, and we welcome everyone, from seasoned campers to those trying it for the first time,” Tracy explains. “We even see snowbirds stopping by in their RVs on the way to the beach, taking a break to enjoy the tranquility here.”
Tracy’s passion for Magnolia Branch is infectious. Her dedication to preserving this natural haven while making it accessible for others is evident in every aspect of the reserve. “This land tells a story,” she reflects. “It’s a story of resilience, of connection to the earth, and of community. We’re here to make sure that story continues for future generations.”
Through their dedication to preserving their ancestral land and sharing their rich cultural legacy, the Poarch Creek Indians invite all who visit to partake in a story of resilience and reverence for nature. Whether you’re hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, every visit to Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve is a journey through both nature and history. Tracy Sells and her team are the guardians of this remarkable place, ensuring it remains a sanctuary for all who seek solace and inspiration in its beauty.