LCCD acquires land by Heron Bend

NEW PROPERTY

By connecting these properties, we are preserving open space today while planning thoughtfully for future public use and wildlife conservation.”

Heather Huebner, Lee County Conservation Director

LEE COUNTY - The Lee County Conservation Board approved the purchase of a 58-acre tract of land at its regular board meeting on Tuesday, marking a significant step forward in expanding and connecting protected natural areas in Lee County.
The property, purchased from a private landowner for a previously agreed-upon price of $348,000, lies directly adjacent to Highway 61 just south of Fort Madison. The acquisition is uniquely important because it connects two existing Lee County Conservation properties, North Heron Bend Fishing Area (39 acres) and North Heron Bend Wildlife Area (158 acres), creating a larger, more contiguous conservation landscape.
“This purchase strengthens the integrity of the North Heron Bend area by protecting critical habitat and improving long-term land management opportunities,” said Heather Huebner, Director of Lee County Conservation. “By connecting these properties, we are preserving open space today while planning thoughtfully for future public use and wildlife conservation.”
At the time of approval, $107,000 had been committed toward the project through generous support from conservation partners, including:
• Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever - $1,500
• Twin Rivers Pheasants Forever - $2,500
• Van Buren County Pheasants Forever - $3,000
• Dubuqueland Pheasants Forever - $5,000
• Iowa Safari Club International - $5,000
• Whitetails Unlimited - $15,000
• Pheasants Forever State Council Trust - $25,000
• Lee County Pheasants Forever - $50,000
Additional funding decisions are anticipated in the coming weeks through competitive conservation grant programs, further demonstrating strong regional and statewide support for the project.
While the newly acquired property is not currently open to the public, Lee County Conservation plans to manage the land for wildlife habitat, conservation, and future public hunting opportunities. The adjacent North Heron Bend Fishing Area will remain a no-hunting area.
For more information about Lee County Conservation properties and programs, visit leecountyiowa.gov/conservation or follow Lee County Conservation on social media.