Katy Heggen

Blog posts by this Author:

A Wild Idea

Half an hour east of Des Moines, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge offers a look into Iowa's prairie past - and here, present - complete with roaming bison and elk, native wildflowers, grasses and sedges. But it hasn't always been this way.
Bridge Along the Ridge

Offering opportunities for hunting, hiking and wildlife observation, Oak Ridge Conservation Area is a natural gem on the western side of the state. Now, thanks to a recent series of additions, the 2,401-acre natural area is one step closer to becoming a contiguous complex.
Homeward Bound

Three Iowans who left the state early in their conservation career reflect on their decision to return to their roots.
Seasons of Change

As the one year anniversary of the derecho approaches, the efforts of one small community in restoring Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center, a place that invites people to explore the intersection of ecology, spirituality and holistic health, is a beacon of hope.
A More Scenic Route

Iowa is home to over a dozen national and state scenic byways. The I-35 corridor isn't one of them. However, there are bits of beauty to be found along this well-traveled route, including a stretch between Ames and Story City that has been stewarded by the same couple for nearly 50 years. Thanks to a series of game-changing decisions, this stretch of I-35 is on its way to becoming more scenic.