VENTURA, Iowa — Ventura Marsh has expanded with a new 70-acre addition on its southwest corner, enhancing access and environmental benefits.

The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation facilitated the donation, working with private citizens to purchase the property and fund habitat projects.

Rob Patterson, a wildlife biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Clear Lake Unit, highlighted the addition. "We restored three smaller wetlands on the parcel that will benefit shorebirds, amphibians, and other wildlife," Patterson said.

These eight-acre wetlands are surrounded by 54 acres of restored prairie, re-seeded in 2024. This new area also offers two parking lots, improving accessibility for hunters.

Efforts continue to restore the prairie and enhance water quality. "We’re going to

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