Joney Laudner Family Nature Preserve

Discover Joney Laudner Family Nature Preserve in Rockford

Joney Laudner Family Nature Preserve is located approximately one-half mile west of the Fossil & Prairie Center. Once dominated by non-native brome grass, the property has been transformed through years of habitat restoration into a diverse landscape of native prairie and reconstructed pothole wetlands.

The prairie is home to a variety of native plants, including black-eyed Susans, gray-headed coneflowers, bee balm, and other seasonal wildflowers and grasses. Reconstructed wetlands help capture water, reduce runoff, and allow moisture to soak into the ground. Cattails, bulrushes, sedges, arrowhead plants, and other wetland vegetation provide habitat for ducks, red-winged blackbirds, tree swallows, dragonflies, amphibians, reptiles, and other wildlife. Wood duck nesting boxes are also maintained and monitored throughout the area.

Although there is no developed trail system, visitors may explore the management paths and enjoy prairie wildflowers, wetland wildlife, birdwatching, and seasonal nature observation. The preserve demonstrates how careful management can successfully restore former agricultural land into valuable native habitat.