Stephens State Forest

About Stephens State Forest

The flora of the region consists of hardwoods such as oak and hickory, prairie grasses and species such as elm, pine and birch. The plants in the prairies are so common because the forest in this area is mainly surrounded by soil that produces forest vegetation. It is home to a variety of tree species, shrubs, plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, insects, fungi, animals and birds.

It consists mainly of oak and hickory species, which are normally found in less fertile, higher altitudes. At higher altitudes, white oak, red oak or hickory are common, at lower altitudes black oak.

Species found in the forest include oak, hickory, birch, red oak and other woody species, as well as some grasses, shrubs and some shrubs.

Many areas are planted with coniferous and deciduous trees not native to the area, such as oaks, hickory, birches, red oaks and other species of trees, as well as some grasses and shrubs. Some of the most common tree species in the Stephens State Forest are oaks, birches, pines, cedars, pines, elms, hazelnuts and many other species.

The forest is home to the white-tailed deer, which are abundant in the area and inhabit a large part of the fauna, but are very rare. Non-venomous snakes are widespread, and there are also many bird species, reptiles and amphibians, as well as birds of prey such as squirrels, bats and birds.

There are a wide variety of birds in the forest and within its borders, and many songbird species use this extremely diverse habitat. Wild birds include pheasants, numerous quails and wild turkeys, woodcock are seasonal visitors to the area, as well as a number of other species.

The game turkey program, which began in 1968, was the first hunting season of modern times, held in 1974. The primary function of the forest is to serve as an example to the citizens of Iowa of forest management. There is a demonstration planting of hardwoods and conifers, conducted by the Iowa State Forest Service and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Over the years, plantations have been planted and since 1972 sawwood and other products have been sold commercially.

People from a wide range of backgrounds use the forest to explore and enjoy nature, and ongoing cultural practices have improved it for the benefit of local people and their families and communities.