This area has native and restored prairie and wetland areas. This includes a 10 acre planting of cedar, dogwood and highbush cranberry. The floodplain is home to cottonwood, silver maple and green ash trees. Pheasant and deer are abundant.

Pothole Birding

Expect to find Bald Eagles, Ring-necked Pheasant, waterfowl and shorebirds like sandpipers and plovers. The Wilson’s Phalarope has been seen here.

Location Description

Prairie Gold is located in 2 ½ miles north of Emmetsburg. From Hwy 18 go east on 360th Street, then north 2.5 miles on 450th Avenue. Parking lot is on right.

Driving Directions and other Information

• Birding drive located off of Hwy 18 Emmetsburg. Take 450th Avenue 2.5 miles north of 360th Street (street that goes past Iowa Lakes Community College) 3347 450th Avenue
• GPS location N 43 09.521 W 094. 41.914
• 231 acres, Palo Alto County Conservation Board
• Hunting, Birding, Prairie Plants

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Take a short visit to Prairie Gold Wildlife Area via the video below!