Some natural areas are exceptional because of their diverse plant and wildlife species. Others for their sheer size. Others for their breath-taking views. Still others for outstanding recreational potential.
The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation recently purchased one site with all these features—plus a three-mile loop of the Upper Iowa River, limestone palisades, wooded hillsides, remnant prairies and a wild-at-heart quality permeating every branch and blade.
Located in western Allamakee County, this rugged 1,224 acres likely contains many other natural treasures yet to be discovered.
Terra Incognita
The land belonged to the late Forrest and Gladys Ryan. The Ryans harvested some trees, cleared some land for crops, hunted and trapped, but left most of the land unchanged. It contains no remaining buildings and virtually no improved roads.
“In his own way, Forrest Ryan preserved the land’s inherent wildness,” says Darrel Mills, INHF’s Blufflands Coordinator. “Now INHF wants to ensure its future.”
Because the site’s natural resources have never been fully documented, INHF and the Iowa Natural History Association have scheduled a BioBlitz in May. Teams of nature experts will find and identify as many of the site’s plant and animal species as possible. Their findings will help determine future land stewardship plans.
Another BioBlitz, planned for July, will allow the public to join the experts and learn about the species.
Big habitat
The land supports its diverse wildlife. Naturalists have already spotted pileated woodpeckers and evidence of bobcat activity. Bald eagles frequently soar over the limestone outcrops and towering palisades.
“This tract is a special jewel packed with admirable and unique natural resources—goat prairies, limestone bluff overlooks, large blocks of mature oak/hickory forests, the Upper Iowa River, many aspen stands and wintering roost sites for eagles,” says Terry Haindfield, wildlife biologist at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. “All of these features are located in what is, in my mind, one of the few wild places still in Iowa.”
The property’s conservation values are multiplied by its proximity to several public areas, including the Canoe Creek Wildlife Area, Pine Creek Wildlife Area and Iverson Bottoms Wildlife Area. Added to the many wild areas on neighboring private land, they create a significant block of wildlife habitat.
Future plans
Because the land is still held privately by INHF until funding is raised, it’s not currently open for public use. According to Mark Ackelson, INHF president, the Foundation is working with IDNR staff and others to refine long-term protection, management and funding strategies.
In the short-term, INHF plans to re-vegetate small crop fields, secure some initial buffers along the river and begin prairie and oak savanna restoration. The BioBlitz and other activities will provide data needed for long-term plans.
Many hands
INHF paid approximately $4.3 million for the property and anticipates additional expenditures for management and restoration. We’re also continuing to pay property taxes. Conservation on this scale requires many partners.
“This project would not have been possible without the Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund, along with help from the Iowa Finance Authority, Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Kerndt Brothers Saving Bank,” Ackelson notes.
“We also appreciate the assistance of the estate executors, Farmers and Merchants Savings Bank of Waukon; and the estate attorney, Richard Howes,” Ackelson adds. “It’s taken persistence, patience and tenacity from all involved—including the Ryan family and the executors along with INHF’s board, members, supporters and staff team.”
To donate, please send contributions to INHF marked “Ryan property.”
