experience the magic at Prairie Patch, a private 50-acre wildlife refuge and nature preserve that is dedicated to protecting Iowa’s natural heritage
Home to seven plots of tall grass prairie, an oak savanna, two creeks, and a forest reserve- the land is not farmed for agriculture & is a safe haven for wildlife
The preserve carries on the legacy of the late Steve Atherton who was a champion of conservation for the State of Iowa in fighting for the protection of wetlands, prairies, and wildlife populations.
Steve was a long time professor in Parks & Natural Resources at Kirkwood Community College and he played a vital role in reintroducing peregrine falcon populations, trumpeter swans, and was instrumental in starting the Lake MacBride Raptor Project.
He received many rewards and reclaimed thousands of acres back to natural landscapes, and after his unexpected death in 2008 The Atherton Memorial Wetland off of Ely Road was named in his honor.
the preserve is now stewarded by steve’s niece Kahle atherton who continues to care for the land in honoring her uncle’s memory and incredible accomplishments in Iowa conservation.
