Conard Environmental Research Area

The Conard Environmental Research Area is a protected nature reserve with over 360 acres of restored prairie, woodland, and oak savanna near Grinnell. The property includes hiking trails, an education center, and research areas dedicated to studying local ecosystems.

Grinnell College acquired the land in 1968 and transformed former farmland into a protected research facility. It was named after a botany professor at the college who devoted his career to studying native plants.

The Environmental Education Center features a stone cairn installation created by a renowned sculptor that blends into the landscape around it. Visitors can discover this art as they walk through and see how contemporary works interact with the natural surroundings.

Visitors can hike on marked trails, watch birds, or take photos and should wear sturdy shoes for walking. The best time to explore is in spring and fall when conditions are pleasant and wildlife is most active.

The education center was the first building in Iowa to receive LEED Gold certification for sustainable construction. This recognition shows how modern building methods support environmental education at the site.

Location: Iowa

GPS coordinates: 41.68330,-92.86440

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:22