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NATURAL

Natural resources are visual features in a
relatively undisturbed state. These features
predate the arrival of human populations and
may include geological formations, fossils,
landform, water bodies, vegetation, and
wildlife. There may be evidence of human
activity, but the natural features reveal minimal
disturbances.

Most IVSB natural areas enjoy use as hunting
areas or wildlife refuges, and thus were
discussed under the preceding “Recreational”
heading. The bulk of these natural areas are
managed by county conservation boards, the
Iowa Department of Natural Resources, or the
Amana Society, Inc.

There are at least 50 important natural
resource elements found along the Corridor.
The Iowa Valley Scenic Byway’s natural
resources include rare animal and plant
species and habitats; several unplowed
prairie remnants and restored prairies;
extensive forests; riverine features, including
an expansive restored wetland complex;
and a landform feature called the Bohemie
Hills or Bohemian Alps. The “Alps”––with
their incredibly long views, extending up to
20 miles––are rolling hills along the western
stretch of the Byway, named after Czech
immigrants who settled the area.

Restored or original prairies include small
roadside remnants, ones in pioneer
cemeteries and public parks, and a five-mile-
long stretch of wetland prairie between Ladora