Critical Woodland Conserved in Hancock County

Posted Wednesday May 31, 2017 by wf_admin

The Hancock County Conservation Board acquired 64 acres of upland habitats thanks in part to Wildlife Forever. With the acquisition of the Eldred Sherwood Timber, adjacent to the Iowa DNR Goodell Wildlife Area, a 235 acre outdoor recreation/wildlife complex has been created. The acquired parcel is one of the last remaining stands of native woodland in the county, and will provide birding and pheasant, deer, and turkey hunting opportunities for the public. The acquisition will also ensure the future protection of a small portion of the east branch of the Iowa River and its watershed. Local conservationists plan to convert a large portion of the 10 acre pasture to a mixed grass and forb tallgrass prairie. A small portion of the pasture will be converted to a wildlife food plot, and various native shrubs and trees will also be planted to provide additional food and cover for wildlife.