Indian Bluffs wildlife area expanded

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This article was written and posted on INHF's website in July 2002. 

A new 40-acre addition to Indian Bluffs Wildlife Area helps protect towering "chimney rock" formations, wildlife habitat, historical sites and more. The property will be open to the public as a primitive wildlife area.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently purchased the 40-acre parcel on the west edge of Indian Bluffs State Wildlife Area in Jones County. The addition was 75% funded by state Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) grant. Though the REAP program was slashed by recent state budget cuts, this purchase was funded through the 2001 grant cycle.

"To me this project epitomizes the purpose of REAP," said Perry Thostenson, Land Conservation Specialist with INHF. "This is truly a remarkable area because of its natural, scenic, archeological, geological and historical features."

INHF assisted in landowner negotiations for the purchase and held the land for about a year while the DNR raised the REAP funds. INHF also arranged for supportive citizens-Greg and Betty Beisker of Ames and Karl and Sarah DeLong of Grinnell-to donate the 25% private match money for the project.

"Dan Guyan, the land's original owner, knew the parcel had negligible agricultural value but great natural value," added Thostenson. "We're thrilled he was willing to sell it for public enjoyment and use." The DNR intends to manage the property for wildlife habitat and as a place for a primitive, "wilderness" recreational experience.

The addition lies on Jordan Creek and contains upland timber with abrupt limestone bluffs and outcrops. Its most unusual scenic feature is a pair of dramatic twin rock towers, labeled "Chimney Rock" on area topographic maps. Though a comprehensive species list has not been compiled, early inventories reveal threatened species within a few hundred feet of the site.

The property has also been the site of exciting human history and legend. Jordan Creek is probably named for James Jordan, and Indian agent and friend of Chief Black Hawk. Though archeologists haven't studied the addition itself, a couple dozen other sites have been found within or near Jordan Creek-including ancient rock shelters, artifact scatters and old mills.

For more information, e-mail Cathy Engstrom, Director of Communications, or call (515) 288-1846.

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