Join Des Moines Audubon and Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation for a morning with the birds in an expanse of wilderness — just 45 minutes south of the Des Moines metro — that could become a new public area.
Get a sneak peek at the proposed Jim Wooley Family Tract, a 422-acre natural area featuring woodland and grassland on the Madison/Clarke County line. Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) is fundraising jointly with Pheasants Forever to permanently protect this area and open it to the public. The tract is adjacent to Heritage Hills WMA, meaning its protection would result in a nearly 1,500-acre contiguous block of habitat, ripe with restoration potential and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Not yet open to the public, this birding hike provides a chance to see the area’s potential in the midst of the protection effort. Learn more about the project on INHF’s website:
https://www.inhf.org/what-we-do/protection/wooley-tract
What to expect
This should be a good time for fall migrants! The woodlands could hold flycatchers, vireos and warblers. The hike will be led by Dennis Thompson, member of the Des Moines Audubon.
Needed attire & equipment
- Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended
- In addition to binoculars, you may want a water bottle, sun protection, walking stick, or camera
Other details
- No experience necessary – birding experts will be on hand to help ID and share ecology information
- Children and families welcome
- There will be no restroom onsite
- Be prepared for a hike on rolling hills and uneven terrain
- The site may have ticks, poison ivy, mosquitos, plants with thorns or other natural hazards
- Parking is at 3357 Maple Lane, Lorimor, Iowa. Watch for INHF event signs
This hike is free, but registration is encouraged so we can relay any other additional details. RSVP here:
https://www.inhf.org/events/bird-hike
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