(Des Moines, IA) – The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) is partnering with the Loess (Luss) Hills Preservation Society and the City of Council Bluffs to pursue the acquisition and permanent protection of a 29‑acre addition to the Vincent Bluff State Preserve.
Officials says the property includes the prominent prairie bluff visible to travelers entering Iowa on I‑80 and is a much‑loved local landmark known historically as Old Skyline Drive and Boy Scout Point. The site lies directly west of the existing Vincent Bluff State Nature Preserve and has remained in private ownership for decades, with periodic development interest over the years while also being identified in the City Masterplan as being a place to preserve if the opportunity ever arose.
Vincent Bluff is a steep loess slope of tallgrass prairie, bordered by bur oak woodlands. In a highly urban setting, it is home to many of Iowa’s endemic prairie plant and animal species.
INHF has secured an option to purchase the land that allows time to raise the funds for the acquisition. The Iowa West Foundation gave a lead gift of $387,000. INHF’s fundraising goal is $800,000 for the remainder of the purchase and initial restoration activities. As with all other INHF projects, all funds raised are directed towards the project.
More information is available HERE.
