The northern part of the heritage area offers an abundance of wildlife and nature. Annual migrations of waterfowl stop over in the several large wildlife reserves here, drawing flocks of birders, too. From the beginnings of European settlement in this part of the world, there has been tension between man and nature. Its ultimate symbol is the Old River Control Structure, one of the world's top engineering marvels. The purpose of this massive set of flood gates is to keep the Mississippi from wiping out New Orleans, Baton Rouge and a lot more in times of high water. Here, most of the floodwaters get diverted to the Atchafalaya River, contained safely in levees.

Like the rest of the heritage area, the upper Atchafalaya is culturally rich, too. On beautiful False River, the town of New Roads retains its French Creole character. In Marksville, the Tunica-Biloxi tribe hosts an annual pow wow. Just about every crossroads gas station offers local delicacies - boudin balls and po boys. If the timing of your next visit is right, festivals abound. The popular Corn Festival in Bunkie is among the best.