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About Us

Whiterock Conservancy is a 5,500 acre, nonprofit land trust dedicated to providing educational and recreational opportunities for the public, improving and protecting the land through conservation, and demonstrating sustainable farming methods.

Explore over 40+ miles of hiking, running, mountain biking, and equestrian; set up camp in our RV or tent camping areas; or enjoy the comforts of home in one of our vacation rentals. 

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Conservation

Our conservation land is actively managed to improve the condition of the savannas, rolling pastures, native and restored prairies, wetlands, riverside bluffs, and fishing ponds. Whiterock is restoring one of the largest areas of savanna left in Iowa. Our diverse habitats are home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and other wildlife.

Agriculture

Whiterock Conservancy also strives to continue the Garst legacy of innovative farming by demonstrating sustainable farming practices and providing farmers and non-farmers alike information on the benefits and costs of these practices.

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Recreation & Education

Whiterock Conservancy provides opportunities for the public to experience and learn from this landscape, with over 40 miles of trails for walkers, hikers, runners, mountain bikers, equestrians, and paddlers. In addition to our trails, Whiterock offers accommodations, camping, fishing, stargazing, and other outdoor activities. We hope to provide the opportunity for thousands of visitors to get up close to nature, view sustainable agriculture practices, and explore the history of the area.

History

As part of this mission to engage the public in learning about sustainable agriculture and the natural landscape, we are also proud to steward the historic Garst Farm. The farm is the cradle of hybrid seed corn and the host for Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev during his historic 1959 visit to the United States.

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