Williams Prairie State Preserve is a well known site to local prairie enthusiasts. It is a diverse wet sedge meadow and sand prairie. It contains more than 320 species of vascular plants and eight mosses and liverworts. It is also home to numerous animals, including the ornate box turtle. It was acquired by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in 1973 and it was dedicated as a State Preserve in 1976. Historically, it served as a wet hayfield, until it was discovered by University of Iowa botanists in the 1960's. The location of the Johnson County Conservtion Department in proximity to Williams Prairie and the increase of TNC resposibilities in the lower Cedar River Watershed and other parts of the state prompted the JCC to enter into a Land Management and Transfer Agreement with the TNC in 2010. The ultimate goal of protecting and preserving this rare ecological gem will continue regardless of the managing agency and both agencies are very proud of that fact.
Location
The Williams Prairie State Preserve is located six miles northwest of F.W. Kent Park.
Features
Wet sedge meadow and sand prairie. 320 species of vasular plants, as well as eight mosses and liverworts.