Grinnell-area nature preserve guide available

The Center for Prairie Studies at Grinnell College recently has published “Nature Preserves Near Grinnell,” a 60-page full-color guide to five natural areas west of Grinnell that are open to the public, including Conard Environmental Research Area, Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve, Rock Creek State Park, Reichelt Unit of Rock Creek State Park and Sugar Creek Audubon Nature Sanctuary.

The guide contains an introduction and separate sections for each preserve. Maps show trails and locate features discussed in the texts. The focus is on habitat types, including typical flora and fauna (illustrated with many photos). Management history and challenges are pointed out. For each preserve aerial photos beginning from the 1930s show changes in vegetative cover.

The text of the guide was written by center volunteer Russell Tabbert. Layout and design were by Larissa Mottl and Laureen Van Wyk, center staff members. Local photographers whose images appear in the guide include Sarah Delong, Jim Heemstra, Erin Hurley, Martin Minelli and Ken Saunders.

For printed copies contact the Center for Prairie Studies at (641) 269-4720 or e-mail vanwyk@grinnell.edu. The guide can be viewed and downloaded (either entire or in sections) at http://web.grinnell.edu/cps/Resources/Publications/publications.htm

“Checklists for Iowa Wildlife: A Supplement to Nature Preserves Near Grinnell” is also available from the Center for Prairie Studies. The supplement includes checklists for Iowa amphibians and reptiles, breeding and migratory birds, butterflies, mammals and dragonflies and damselflies.