REAP in Your Region: Mines of Spain, Backbone State Park and more in eastern Iowa

By Haley Hodges on October 10, 2017 in Blog

For the next six weeks, INHF will be sharing the impact Iowa's REAP program has in communities throughout the state. The Iowa DNR is hosting regional REAP Assemblies until Oct. 26, local meetings that allow residents to learn more about REAP and play a role in the programs policies and projects. Find the full REAP Assembly schedule here.

REAP in your region 8

Region 8

Cedar, Clinton, Delaware, Dubuque, Jackson

REAP Assembly – Maquoketa
Oct. 11, 2017 | Open house: 6-6:30 p.m., Assembly: 6:30-8 p.m.
Hurstville Interpretive Center (18670 63rd St., North of Maquoketa on Hwy 61)

FEATURED PROJECT

Mines of Spain

History and natural beauty intertwine on Dubuque's south side at the Mines of Spain Park. This state recreation area was founded atop Iowa's first non-Indian settlement, and is home to a National Historic Landmark—Julien Dubuque’s Monument and burial site. The 1,387-acre site boasts 21 miles of hiking trails and 5 miles of ski trails. Along the way, visitors will find Indian mounds, 250-year-old bur oak trees, lead mine pits and the remnants of an 1859 farm. The park is a gem for photographers, hikers and anyone who loves the great outdoors. Over the years, REAP funding to Mines of Spain has contributed to trail development, erosion control and more.

REAP funding for this project: $159,948