Conard Environmental Research Area Winter Hours Announced

December 2–17, Closed for Managed Deer Hunt

For two weeks this month, the Grinnell College Conard Environmental Research Area (CERA) will be closed to the public for the annual managed deer hunt. CERA will close Saturday, Dec. 2, and remain closed until Sunday, Dec. 17.

The purpose of the managed deer hunt is to reduce white-tailed deer populations at CERA and surrounding areas by selectively harvesting individuals during the annual shotgun seasons. CERA staff and volunteer hunters coordinate the hunt, which is conducted using lead-free ammunition.

December 18–22, Regular Hours

On Dec. 18, CERA will reopen to the public, resuming regular hours and activities. The field station is normally open to the public from dawn to dusk for hiking, bird watching, photography, painting, drawing, and other nature studies. CERA offers six miles of trails and has hosted various programs for the public, such as a prairie performance art, a papermaking workshop, and volunteer opportunities.

December 23–January 5, Open to Foot Traffic

CERA will be closed to vehicles but open to foot traffic during the College’s winter recess, December 23, 2017, through January 5, 2018. Visitors are welcome to park at the Main gate or River Trail gate in order to access CERA for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. The Environmental Education Center will be locked during winter recess

Directions

CERA is a 365-acre field station located 12 miles southwest of Grinnell at 11203 S. 12th Ave. E., Kellogg, IA.

Take I-80 West to Exit 173 (Kellogg/Sully).

Turn north (right) onto Highway 224 and drive 0.5 miles. Turn east (right) onto S. 12th Ave. E. (gravel road) and drive 1.5 miles.

Look for the “Henry S. Conard Environmental Research Area” sign on the south side of the road, and turn south (right) onto CERA’s main lane.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact CERA Manager Elizabeth Hill or Campus Safety 641-269-4600.