Fall Savanna

HRF steadily works toward the completion of several savanna restoration projects this fall.  Nearly all fall in far southwestern IA where travel has been compromised due to massive flooding nearly all summer.  These projects are slowly changing the face of the leading edge of the loess hills in western Iowa.

Heavy thinning is allowing sunlight to flood the newly opened forest floor.  It’s hopeful that native grasses and forbes will start to re-emerge as they are immersed in warm sun.  Inclusion of future prescribed fire will lend itself to a wonderful healing process within these hills with oaks and other high quality hardwoods dominating the landscape over newly restored prairie.