Spring-fed watershed · Northwest Arkansas
Conservation, education, and watershed protection in Northwest Arkansas.
Friends of Healing Springs Natural Area, Inc. is an Arkansas conservation nonprofit dedicated to the long-term stewardship of Healing Springs Natural Area. We are recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
Protect and restore a spring-fed watershed ecosystem through conservation, education, and stewardship.
Healing Springs Natural Area protects a spring-fed ecosystem of statewide conservation significance in the Little Osage Creek watershed.
This natural area in Highfill, Arkansas supports rare aquatic species, spring-fed streams, Little Osage Creek, and mature forest habitat within the Ozark Highlands. Its protection benefits water quality, biodiversity, and community access to nature.
We work alongside state conservation agencies, local stakeholders, and volunteers to ensure this resource is cared for with science-informed stewardship and transparent governance.
Our work focuses on measurable outcomes for watershed health, habitat, species protection, and community engagement.
Protecting water quality and flow in the spring-fed systems and Little Osage Creek through erosion control, riparian buffer restoration, and responsible land stewardship.
Restoring native plant communities and improving habitat connectivity to support resilient ecosystems across the natural area and surrounding watershed.
Safeguarding habitat for rare native fish including the Arkansas Darter and Least Darter, whose presence reflects the health of these aquatic systems.
Engaging volunteers, educators, and local partners in hands-on conservation, environmental education, and long-term care of this special place.
News from our board, partners, and volunteer community.
Upcoming workday
Saturday, October 3, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Healing Springs Common-Area Pond
Rain date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Join Friends of Healing Springs Natural Area for a community cleanup and stewardship workday on October 3, 2026, from 9 AM–4 PM. RSVP to volunteer.
The Board of Directors met on August 10, 2026, to set initial priorities for stewardship, partnerships, community involvement, and responsible financial practices.
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On July 7, 2026, Friends of Healing Springs Natural Area, Inc. received an IRS determination of exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Read more Updates on volunteer opportunities, upcoming workdays, and how community members can participate in stewardship at Healing Springs Natural Area.
Read moreVolunteers support field work, restoration, and ongoing stewardship at Healing Springs Natural Area.