Bird Preserve Offers Additional Connections to Nature in Linn County

A new 140-acre natural area in Linn County west of Cedar Rapids offers a place where wildlife thrives, and people enjoy a deeper connection to nature and its benefits for generations to come. The Bird Preserve features three miles of soft surface trails for hiking, a covered pavilion for a gathering space, timber shade structures, restrooms, interpretive signage, and plenty of flora and fauna along the way.

In early 2020, Rae Jeanne Kilberger contacted Linn County Conservation to share her family's long-term vision that began with her grandfather "Pa Bird". Inspired by the early development of Seminole Valley Park in Cedar Rapids, Rae Jeanne's grandfather told her, "This land too will be preserved someday."

Kilberger donated 83 acres of land near the Cedar River at 5601 Ellis Road, Cedar Rapids and funding assistance through the Kilberger Foundation for an additional 57 acres at 5441 Rogers Road, Cedar Rapids. In partnership with the Kilberger Foundation, Linn County Conservation has restored the property in developing this natural area with wetlands and an oxbow reconstruction to benefit water quality and wildlife habitat. The first phase of this low impact development near Ellis Road was completed last fall. The second phase completion near Rogers Road was commemorated on Friday with a small gathering with the Bird Family. Daniel Gibbins, Linn County Conservation Deputy Director, says the Bird Preserve offers our community a new nature-based public conservation area that protects our native habitats and promotes community connections to the outdoors.

"The Bird Preserve is a very special addition to the Linn County Conservation System that displays the value of public land for the community as a place to enjoy and explore the outdoors, "said Gibbins. "Lands held for wildlife habitat and public recreation such as the Bird Preserve offer places to enjoy our natural treasures in quietness or with a community of friends, something we need more and more for our health and well-being."

The Bird Preserve is open from 4 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. The area is designated for archery-only deer hunting during the appropriate seasons. Linn County Conservation maintains a carry-in carry-out policy, meaning no garbage cans are on site. People should take any refuse back with them after completion of their visit.