PROMOTING OUR GREATEST NATURAL TREASURE
The Wapsipinicon River is Buchanan county's main habitat and wildlife corridor, and provides the bulk of outdoor recreation for area residents and visitors from outside the county. In many respects, it is Iowa's (and arguably one of the country's) best kept secrets. The Conservation Board, with assistance from the Four Seasons trail Association, Northeast Iowa RC&D, and Iowa DNR, is working to bring attention to the natural values of the Wapsi. Grant funds from a Wapsipinicon River Water Trail Grant are being used to develop a quality brochure, educational kiosks, and numerous signs - all designed to orient and educate river users about the Wapsipinicon River.

PROTECTING OUR IMPORTANT NATURAL AREAS
Protecting significant natural areas has always been a top priority of the Conservation Board. In recent weeks, the Conservation Board has been working with members of the John and Maxine Ham family to assure protection of one of the county's most unique and wonderful natural areas - the Ham Marsh. This natural splendor features one of the state's most impressive stands of wild rice, several endangered species, and one species-sandhill crane- which has not flourished in Iowa since the late 1800's. The wildlife and features of the 10-acre marsh exist due to the surrounding landscape. A 14 acre sedge meadow provides the ideal habitat for young crane and other wildlife. Adjacent hay ground is full of bobolinks and other birds. With protection in place, and a tinkering of management and conversion of some of the hay ground to prairie, the natural complex of marsh and uplands will be strengthened. the Ham Marsh has been a priority for protection for more than 20 years., and in this milestone year it appears the goal will be met. Once again, the Conservation board will be assembling numerous partners for this effort. The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is helping facilitate the project. Buchanan County Pheasants Forever and Wildlife Association have committed their support. Discussions are underway with other local groups, and with the Iowa DNR which is interested in helping assure this natural gem is protected. the Ham family has a wonderful conservation ethic, and has been a most enthusiastic player in protecting the natural features of their beloved farm. More information will be available soon - watch your local newspapers.

This year's "milestone" projects are in addition to all the onging efforts of the Conservation Board, which included a very busy year in our parks and campgrounds, an increased number of visitors to the nature center, and record attendance in environmental education programs. The conservation Department staff deserves special recognition for achieving these milestones in spite of being short-staffed due to changed in personnel and grant cycles. Special thanks also to a Board of Supervisors that recognize the value of conservation in our community.

The Conservation Board has long promoted Buchanan County's natural resources gems, and this effort was given an important boost recently when a grant was awarded to develop a Water Trail on the Wapsipinicon River. A Water Trail facilitates responsible river use by canoeists, anglers, kyakers and other water users. The grant will pay for much of the following components of the Water Trail.

Numerous signs for use both on the river and on area roads and highways. River signs will tell the rivers users distances to campgrounds, towns, dams, restrooms, and other destinations along the river. Highway signs will direct people to the entry points to the Water Trail.

Printing of a brochure, developed as a guide fro river users. It will include a detailed map and description of the River and points of interest.

Two trail head interpretive signs to explain resources along the River. points of interest, safety considerations, and other aspects of the River.

Flow-through litter bags will be provided as part of the Water Trail project through the Keep Iowa Beautiful Program.

Partners on the Water Trail Project include the Buchanan County Conservation Board, 4 Seasons Trail Association, and Northeast Iowa Rural Conservation and Development (RC & D), Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and Keep Iowa Beautiful.