Gray-Hart Preserve

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Iowa

This preserve is home to several rare fen plants.

Shooting Stars. © Carl Kurtz

About
Visit
Your Comments

Open to the Public

Yes

Get Directions

Gray-Hart Preserve is one of the state’s largest fens, which is a type of wetland that tends to be marsh-like in nature. This area is a wonderful addition to the preserves found in Iowa.

Why you should visit:

Walking in this area has been described as feeling like walking on a waterbed. These fens - basically areas of extremely spongy and water-filled land - are beautiful as well as intriguing because of their unique array of plant life.

Location:

Fayette County

Size:

14.5 acres

Why the Conservancy Selected This Site

Gray-Hart Preserve is one of the largest fen wetlands in the state and hosts a multitude of rare fen plants. The Conservancy obtained this site through a bargain sale from Marty Mihall and named it in honor of her parents.

What the Conservancy Has Done/Is Doing

The Conservancy has partnered with Fayette County Conservation Board to help manage the site. An access road, which allows public access to the preserve to the site, thanks to the support of Marty Mihall.

Things To Do

What to See: Plants

Grass-of-Parnasis, yarrow, shooting star, prairie smoke, marsh phlox, big bluestem and many other rare plants are found at this site.

What to See: Animals

There is not a complete survey of the animals located on this preserve.

Plan Your Visit

This area is extremely wet. Wear clothing that can get wet and possibly muddy. Be aware of a fence that runs through the middle of the fen. The fenced area is privately owned, so please do not walk inside the fence. Also, be careful when walking through the bog. Individuals with limited mobility should show caution.

Preserve Visitation Guidelines

Half of this preserve is privately owned. When visiting, please be aware of the boundaries of the area.

Directions

Discussion

Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.

Add Your Comments

Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!

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