Dubuque County Conservation

Comprehensive Parks, Trails
and Open Spaces Plan
Update

The image features an expansive aerial view showing a vibrant landscape with dense green trees surrounding a winding river. In the foreground, there is a narrow dirt road leading to a wooden bridge crossing over the river. Fields are visible on the landscape, giving a contrast to the greenery. The golden hue of the sunset bathes the entire scene, enhancing its natural beauty.

INTRODUCTION

Overview & Process

Introduction

In 2020, Dubuque County Conservation adopted its first Comprehensive Parks, Trails, and Open Spaces Plan, serving as a strategic guide and roadmap for the county's programming, recreation, education, and management efforts. The plan has been a huge success—park usage has increased, the community is visiting more frequently, and educational programming has grown tremendously.

In response to this success, and as the board looks ahead to the next 5 years (with insights beyond that), Dubuque County Conservation commissioned a comprehensive plan update focused on receiving public input to help prioritize the next set of projects, reposition projects that are not feasible (e.g., changing financial, environmental, or management capabilities), and identify new opportunities that may be emerging.

To assist with this effort, the Conservation Board worked with RDG Planning & Design to help lead the master plan update. The process included a series of park visits, public open houses, staff work sessions, public input surveys, and Board work sessions. The findings from these efforts, along with the strategic framework and recommendations in the existing 2020 plan, directly informed the proposed improvements.

Notable differences between this update and the existing master plan include scaling back the proposed Swiss Valley Nature Center renovations and remaining neutral on the paving or not paving of Heritage Trail (this continues to be a divisive topic). Within this plan, a greater proportion of the funding is being allocated towards deferred maintenance, invasive species removal and ecological restoration, improving waterways and ponds, determining the feasibility of an ATV park, and land protection and acquisition.

Community Feedback

Community engagement was a central element of the planning process. Four community engagement events were held throughout Dubuque County to provide community members with opportunities to share their feedback and ideas for the future of the park system.

Peosta: Swiss Valley Nature Center, March 19, 2026
Asbury: Asbury Public Library, March 31, 2026
Dubuque: Backpocket Events Space, Millwork District, April 2, 2026
Cascade: Cascade Public Library, April 2, 2026

More than 200 people attended the open houses and provided feedback on the Dubuque County park system. In addition, an online public input survey was promoted on social media and other outreach channels. 586 respondents took the survey, a 270% increase from those who took the survey in 2020! Additionally, 97.2% of survey respondents strongly agree or somewhat agree that 'Funding County parks is a good use of my tax dollars,' indicating strong support for Dubuque County Conservation.

Key findings identified through the open houses and survey:

Overall satisfaction with the park system remains high. 85% of respondents rated the quality of Dubuque County Parks as "Excellent" or "Good," indicating that the system is generally well-maintained and valued by the community. The plan builds on these strengths by maintaining existing assets while identifying improvements that address unmet needs.
Some amenity needs are well met, while others are seen as limited. Respondents felt that open lawn spaces and unpaved gravel trails are the most

The pie chart displays the distribution of responses to the question of whether funding County parks is viewed as a good use of tax dollars. The largest segment, 85.5%, indicates approval, while smaller segments represent disapproval and neutral opinions, including 11.7%, 1.9%, and 0.5%. Colors differentiate the segments, but specific color meanings are not provided.

The pie chart illustrates survey responses to the statement, 'I would rather see increased taxes to support parks than see services reduced.' It is divided into segments representing various opinions, with the largest section (59.6%) indicating strong agreement. Other segments show somewhat agree (22.4%), neutral (9.1%), somewhat disagree (6.3%), and strongly disagree (2.6%). Each segment is color-coded for clarity, with the corresponding legend detailing what each color represents.

FIGURE 1: SURVEY QUESTION #5 PLEASE RATE YOUR LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH EACH OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS.

The image shows a gathering of individuals in a well-lit meeting room. Many attendees are standing and engaged in conversation, while others interact with presentation boards displaying various visuals. The room has a neutral-colored flooring and is furnished with tables. The atmosphere suggests a collaborative discussion or presentation session.

Fully met needs within the park system. In contrast, rock climbing, cabins, and archery facilities were identified as the least met needs. In response, the plan includes recommendations to evaluate the feasibility of rock climbing opportunities and potential locations for rental cabins at select parks.

Infrequent users are generally satisfied with park maintenance but seek additional reasons to visit. Among respondents who visit parks once per month or less, the most common reasons for limited use were using other city, state, or private properties and a lack of desired features. The plan focuses on adding or evaluating new amenities and programming opportunities that fulfill unmet needs that may encourage more frequent visitation.

Trail Improvements, Habitat Preservation, and Land Protection/Acquisition remain the County's highest priorities. The top three priorities in the 2026 survey were the same as those identified in 2020, highlighting the importance of recommendations that reflect these: trail improvements, habitat preservation, and land protection/acquisition. Numerous recommendations in the update include trail maintenance and expansion, ecological restoration and habitat management projects, and future opportunities for potential land acquisition and park system expansion.

Community members provided feedback at the Cascade Public Library Open House on April 2, 2026.

Heritage Trail paving remains a divisive issue. As in 2020, the future of Heritage Trail paving was one of the most divisive topics raised through the survey and open houses. While the issue remains important to many residents, this update does not make a recommendation regarding whether the Heritage Trail should be paved or remain unpaved. The topic may be considered through a future planning process.

The park system should serve a broad range of ages and household types. Survey respondents in both 2020 and 2026 were most commonly ages 35–44, and 389 respondents indicated that children age 19 or younger live in their household, with most households including children age 14 or younger. At the same time, respondents ages 55–64 increased by 14 percent compared to 2020. These findings reinforce the need for parks that serve families, older adults, and visitors of varying abilities. The plan includes recommendations for improved accessibility, restrooms, shelters, benches, sidewalks, and other amenities that support an inclusive visitor experience. The update includes recommendations for new trail opportunities, trail maintenance, and feasibility studies for additional trail connections.

Hiking trails and connectivity remain the most important amenity for households. 59% of respondents identified hiking trails as the most important park amenity for their household. This finding supports the continued emphasis on trails from the 2020 plan.
Rental cabins are a recurring interest. Rental cabins emerged as a consistent theme across the survey and open house feedback, reflecting interest in more overnight and destination-oriented recreation opportunities. The plan identifies potential locations where cabins may be considered and recommends further evaluation of their feasibility.

Water access and water-based recreation are desired across the system. Open house participants frequently requested kayak and canoe launches, improved fishing access, water trails, and better access to waterfront areas. The plan addresses these needs through recommendations for improved water access and expanded water-based recreation opportunities at parks where conditions are appropriate.
Ecological restoration and conservation are strongly supported. Community members consistently expressed support for habitat preservation, native vegetation, invasive species management, wetland and prairie restoration, and protection of natural resources. This feedback aligns with habitat preservation and land protection being among the highest survey priorities. The plan includes ecological restoration and conservation efforts.

resource management recommendations at multiple parks throughout the system.

Accessibility and Basic Amenities Remain Important to the Visitor

Accessibility and basic amenities remain important to the visitor experience. Open house participants identified needs for ADA improvements, sidewalk connections, restrooms, parking, buffering, and other basic park amenities. These improvements are integrated into park-specific recommendations to make parks more accessible and welcoming for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Residents want expanded outdoor recreation opportunities. Requests for additional mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, cabins, and other outdoor recreation opportunities were common across the engagement process. These interests are generally

consistent with the unmet amenity
needs identified in the survey. The plan
includes recommendations and feasibility
studies for these uses at locations
where they could be accommodated.

Park Visitation Analysis

While community engagement provided insight into people's priorities and perceptions of the park system, visitation analysis was used to better understand how parks are currently used. The park visitation analysis was conducted using Placer.ai to better understand visitation patterns across the park system. The analysis found that total visitation of the park system has nearly doubled since 2019, demonstrating the importance of these facilities to both residents and visitors. Approximately 66% of visitors come from

The chart displays total visitation numbers over a span of years from 2019 to 2025. Each year is represented by a vertical bar, with the height indicating the total visitation count. The bars for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 are respectively at 301,471; 467,423; 443,177; 389,388; 404,033; 451,958; and 451,749. A dotted trend line illustrates a general increase in visitation numbers over the years. The axes are labeled with total visitation on the vertical axis and years on the horizontal axis.

FIGURE 2: Total park system visitation for 2019-2025 year-over-year shows a growing trend.

family households, and most users are from Dubuque County – particularly the City of Dubuque – demonstrating strong local use. Lastly, parks with campgrounds and waterfront access tend to have higher overall visitation along with more non-local visitation. Full findings are included in the appendix.

The visitation analysis is a valuable planning tool for existing and future parks because it can identify and compare park use, understand visitor demographics, and other trends across the park system. This information can help identify amenities and experiences that are well used by the community, as well as gaps in facilities, programming, or geographic access.

All of this can also inform future investment decisions by helping the County prioritize improvements, evaluate opportunities for new amenities, and determine locations for future parks that will best serve the community.

Classifying Parks

In addition to understanding visitation patterns, it is important to understand the different types of parks within the system to develop recommendations that reflect each property's purpose, character, and primary use. Dubuque County Conservation offers a diverse array of park types. These park types, or classifications, host a variety of programming and recreation opportunities. The park classifications identified below were developed to better understand the purpose and intended use of each park. Understanding the different park types can help guide the planning for future improvements and expansion. The following classifications are influenced by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Iowa DNR but have been tailored to best suit Dubuque County Conservation. The classifications are intended to be flexible, and some properties may have characteristics of more than one category. Additionally, the principal use of a park was also considered when classifying it and may differ from its name. For example, Interstate Power Preserve is identified as a Recreation Park and not a Preserve because it primarily functions as a place for mountain biking and hiking.

The park classifications are characterized below:

Nature Preserves

Prioritize protection of ecosystems and wildlife habitats
Serve as refuges for species
Minimize human interference
Aim to conserve biodiversity
Allow for scientific study and observation
Heavily emphasize conservation over human recreation

Wildlife Areas

Support wildlife habitat and natural communities
Typically host nature-based recreation (e.g., fishing, hunting, trapping, hiking)
Limit recreation that is more disruptive to wildlife

The bar chart displays the number of visits to different parks and facilities. Recreation Park is represented by the longest orange bar with a value of 9. The Wildlife Area shows 6 visits with a green bar, followed by Marina and Nature Preserve, both with a value of 3, indicated by blue and yellow bars respectively. Special Use Park/Facility has 2 visits, shown by a purple bar, while Regional Trail has the least visits at 1, represented by a brown bar. The y-axis indicates the number of visits, ranging from 0 to 10.

Marinas

Center around prominent water features like rivers and lakes
Typically feature water-based recreation (e.g., kayaking, boating, fishing, etc.)
Offer additional forms of recreation

Regional Trails

Offer trails as the sole feature, sometimes include supporting amenities like restrooms and water fountains
Are off-street linear connectors intended to support regional recreation

Recreation Parks

Offer diverse opportunities for recreation
Developed for human recreation
Typically offer amenities like park shelters, playgrounds, etc.
May include areas for organized sports and informal natural areas for recreation
Vary in size

Special Use Parks/Facilities

Encompass a broad range of park and facility types
Designed for a single type of use, purpose, attraction, or activity

Together, the community engagement findings, visitation analysis, and park classification system provide a foundation for evaluating and prioritizing future investments in the county park system. By combining community priorities with an understanding of current park use, the recommendations on the following pages identify opportunities to enhance recreation, conservation, and visitor experience across the park system.

FIGURE 3: NUMBER OF PROPERTIES WITHIN EACH PARK CLASSIFICATION MANAGED BY DUBUQUE COUNTY CONSERVATION.

PARK PLAN UPDATES

Park Plan Legend

Refer to this general legend when reviewing the park master plans on the following pages. Icons with a black background indicate existing elements, while icons with an orange background indicate proposed elements. Each improvement recommendation is also categorized by the type of improvement it represents and its project type. See the abbreviation key below.

TR = Trail Improvements

HP = Habitat Preservation & Restoration

LP = Land Protection & Acquisition of Sensitive Natural Areas / Hunting and Fishing Land Access

WQ = Water Quality Enhancements / Floodplain Management

PK = Park Infrastructure Enhancements

N = New Improvement

D = Deferred Maintenance / Code Compliance Improvements

L = Park & Preserve Land Acquisition

Existing | Proposed

Camping symbol inside an orange square indicating a camping area or facility.

Campsite

Existing | Proposed

Icon of a faucet with a dripping water drop.

Icon depicting a faucet with a single drop of water falling from it, set against an orange background.

Water Hookup

Icon of a plug symbol against an orange background.

Electrical Hookup

Icon depicting a person disposing of waste into a trash bin.

Icon depicting a person throwing trash into a bin.

Trash Disposal

Picnic Area

An orange square icon featuring a black question mark inside a circle.

Information

Icon representing a picnic area with a roof over a table and bench.

Icon representing a covered picnic area, shown in an orange square with a roof structure and bench symbol.

Picnic Shelter

Icon representing a information kiosk or display stand.

Interpretive Signage / Exhibit

Icon of a truck with a camper attached, representing recreational vehicle transport.

Icon of a truck with a camper, depicted in black on an orange background.

RV Campground

Icon depicting a person using a telescope.

Icon indicating a telescope observation point, depicting a person using a telescope.

Viewing Area

Two icons representing a roll of toilet paper, one in black and the other in orange.

Sewer Hookup

Two icons representing a building; one in black and white, the other in orange and white.

Cabins

Existing Proposed
Fishing
Fishing Pier
Kayaking/Kayak Launch
Marina
Drinking Water
Food Service
Pit Toilet
Restrooms
Showers
Parking
Benches/Seating
Ecological Restoration
Bridge

$ Existing $ Proposed

The image shows two stylized icons of a slanted roof design. The left icon is black with a white line depicting the roof slope, while the right icon has an orange background with a white line representing the same design. The icons are similar in shape but differ in color scheme.

Shelter

The image features two icons side by side. On the left, there is a black icon with a white circular center displaying triangular rays radiating outward. On the right, an orange icon mirrors the design, with a solid black circular center and the same triangular rays extending from it. This dual representation suggests a thematic or functional variation, likely for distinction in usage or meaning.

Scenic Viewpoint

Icon depicting a hiker with a backpack and walking stick.

Symbol indicating hiking activity, featuring a person with a backpack and walking stick.

Hiking/Trailhead

Icon of a dog on a leash with a bag attached for waste disposal.

Icon of a dog on a leash against an orange background.

Dog Park

An orange safety sign depicting a person carrying a spotlight.

Icon depicting a person walking with a backpack and a headlamp.

Caving

Disc Golf

Two icons depicting a seesaw with children playing, one in black and one in orange.

Playground
Golfing

The image features two distinct golf icons side by side. On the left, a white figure is depicted in a swinging pose on a black background, representing a traditional golf icon. On the right, a colored figure in an orange box is also shown in a swinging posture, providing a more modern or alternative design. Both icons represent the action of playing golf.

Golfing
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

The image features two climbing icons: the left icon shows a stylized climber ascending against a black background, while the right icon displays the same climber in an orange color against a contrasting background. Both icons represent the activity of rock climbing and are likely used for signage or guidelines related to climbing.

Rock Climbing

Two icon illustrations of a cyclist; one in black and white and another in orange.

Biking/Parking

Two icons representing biking activities, one in black and white, the other in orange.

Mountain Biking

Bike Repair Station

Two icons depicting a boat on a ramp, one in black and white and one in orange.

Boat Launch
Bridge

County Park Locations

The image captures a scenic aerial view of a wooded area featuring a winding river flowing through it. The trees display a variety of fall colors, including orange, yellow, and green, highlighting the seasonal transition. Various patches of land are visible next to the river, with a mix of dense forest and open fields, contributing to the overall natural landscape.

This map provides an overview of the Dubuque County Conservation park locations. In addition, a table of recommendations for general county-wide improvements is below. These pertain to items such as future land acquisition, development of additional cabins, and other maintenance items.

1 Balltown Overlook 12 McCarthy Wildlife Area
2 Bankston Park 13 Massey Marina
3 Bowstring Wildlife Area 14 Miller McGrath Wildlife Area
4 Fillmore Recreation Area 15 Mud Lake Park
5 Finley's Landing 16 New Wine Park
6 Graf Park 17 Pohlman Prairie
7 Heritage Pond/Campground 18 Proving Grounds
8 Interstate Power Preserve 19 Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area
9 John Deere Marsh 20 Swiss Valley Park/Campground
10 Little Maquoketa River Mounds 21 Swiss Valley Nature Preserve
11 Locher Recreation Area 22 Whitewater Canyon

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
County Wide Improvements (Not Park Specific)			$6,000,000.00	$9,000,000.00	$3,000,000.00	$18,000,000.00
ATV park development & land acquisition.	N	PK		$3,000,000.00			Repurpose degraded lands (avoid sensitive areas).
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP	$3,000,000.00
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP		$3,000,000.00
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP			$3,000,000.00
Maintenance facility relocation.	D	PK	$3,000,000.00
Cabins.	N	PK		$3,000,000.00

The map illustrates the geographic layout of Dubuque, including major roads, landmarks, and suburbs. Labeled numbers correspond to specific locations throughout the area, connecting routes with important sites like towns and parks. The spatial relationships among the roads and locations are clearly delineated, making it easy to navigate the region.

Delaware

Jo Daviess

Heritage Trail

The image depicts a cyclist biking along a wooded trail. The pathway is flanked by trees with vibrant autumn colors, showcasing a mixture of greens and yellows. The terrain features a slight incline with rocky cliffs visible on one side, indicating a natural landscape. The cyclist is seen wearing a helmet and casual attire, illustrating an outdoor recreational activity.

The following pages provide improvement recommendations for each of the eight Heritage Trail trailheads and access points based on community and staff feedback. Note: at this time, the plan update does not make recommendations for the future of Heritage Trail regarding paving. More detailed sets of recommendations for Graf and Sageville trailheads are located on the Graf Park and Heritage Pond & Campground park pages.

Potential Acquisition
If landowner is a willing seller

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Heritage Trail			$105,000.00	$6,445,000.00	$-	$6,550,000.00
Dyersville Trailhead - Add restrooms.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Dyersville Trailhead - Plant shade trees.	N	TR	$5,000.00
Farley Access Point - Add parking lot.	N	PK		$20,000.00
Graf Trailhead - Install public water supply and drinking fountain.	N	TR	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Install a bike repair station.	N	TR	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Add a ride/hike-in camping area with tent platforms.	N	PK	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.

The map depicts a section of Beltline Road and 11th Street SE, highlighting several key features: a signalized crossing for pedestrians, an existing memorial, and areas marked for planting trees. The locations are labeled clearly, showing their spatial relationship to the surrounding roads and landmarks.

The map displays a section of land with Holy Cross Road to the right. It features a pedestrian path, a cycling path, and symbols indicating accessible areas for men, women, and a designated parking area. Spatial relationships are illustrated by the connection between pathways and parking, as well as their proximity to the road.

The map features Gun Club Road running through a wooded area. Symbols represent accessibility for hiking, biking, and strollers, indicating the main routes and activities available. The layout shows the road's placement relative to surrounding nature, helping users navigate outdoor options clearly.

The map displays a park's geographical layout featuring a winding river, outlined pathways, and designated areas for parking and fishing. Key amenities are illustrated with icons, including a fishing area, a tent symbol for camping, and a bicycle symbol. The roads and surrounding features are labeled clearly, aiding navigation and understanding of the park's offerings.

The map illustrates the Dyersville area with labeled locations such as Northside Park, Field of Dreams access, and other parks. It highlights trails, parking areas, and landmarks including the Stone Arch Culvert Exhibit and Prairie Restoration Exhibit. The layout shows key access routes and symbols indicating facilities like restrooms and pedestrian paths.

Heritage Trail

The image depicts a paved pathway winding along a riverbank, with benches and trees displaying vibrant autumn foliage on either side. The path is well-maintained and lined with grass, offering a peaceful setting for walking or biking. In the distance, there are signs indicating amenities and the continuation of the pathway. The overall atmosphere is tranquil, highlighting nature's beauty in the fall.

The legend outlines city limits, parks, and planned regional trails, differentiating between various trail types such as multi-use, shared roads, and unpaved trails. It includes symbols for existing roads, proposed paths, and features like bridges, with a note about potential acquisition.

The legend illustrates the symbols and colors representing various parks, trails, and road types in the area. It includes details like city limits, existing and planned roads and trails, and their classifications (e.g., Multi Use Trail - Existing, Shared Road - Planned). This information helps users understand the layout and regional planning context of the map.

Potential Acquisition
If landowner is a willing seller

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Heritage Trail			$105,000.00	$6,445,000.00	$-	$6,550,000.00
Twin Springs Trailhead - Enhance kayak launch.	D	PK	$15,000.00
Budd Road Trailhead - Enhance kayak launch.	D	PK	$15,000.00
Budd Road Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		$5,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Add restrooms.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Restore kayak access.				$15,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		$5,000.00
Sageville Trailhead - Add primitive camping with tent platforms.	N	PK	$-				Sageville Trailhead improvement costs included in Heritage Pond & Campground section.
Streambank Restoration.	D	HP		$1,000,000.00
Replace bridges #3 and #6.	D	TR		$4,000,000.00
Replace bridge #11.	D	TR		$700,000.00
Replace bridges #20 and #24.	D	TR		$700,000.00

The map highlights various parks, trails, and roads in the area. It includes labeled icons for rest areas, parking locations, and recreational facilities. Important landmarks include F. Budd Road, E. Twin Springs, G. Durango, and H. Sageville. The spatial relationships among these locations are indicated through distinct pathways and road layouts, supporting navigation and exploration of outdoor attractions.

The map displays the terrain and roads in a mountainous area, featuring winding roads, rivers, and a lake. Elevation markings are provided at the bottom, indicating the scale of 10,000 feet. The map illustrates spatial relationships among natural and constructed landmarks, emphasizing the geographical layout.

E. Twin Springs Trailhead

F. Budd Road Trailhead

The map depicts an aerial view of an area along Asbury Road, marking two notable points: a kayaking launch area symbolized by an orange icon with a paddler and a parking area indicated by a black 'P' symbol. The map provides context to their spatial relationship within the surrounding wooded land and paths leading to them.

The map provides an aerial view of the area near Budd Road, marking the road, a parking area denoted by a 'P', and symbols indicating activities such as climbing, kayaking, and fishing. These landmarks and icons help users understand the layout and recreational options available.

G. Durango Trailhead

H. Sageville Trailhead

The map displays a kayak access point with key features such as parking, restrooms, and fishing. It is located along Burton's Furnace Road, which is marked, and IA-3 is also indicated nearby. Icons represent kayaking, parking availability, restroom locations, and fishing, providing essential information for visitors.

The map depicts an area around a pond with various amenities marked by icons including camping, drinking water, parking, restroom facilities, bicycle access, and fishing areas. Roads are labeled, including Rupp Hollow Road and Sageville Road, providing context to the location of features.

Balltown Overlook

600 Balltown Road | 0.06 Acres

Special Use Park

The Balltown Overlook is situated in Balltown in northwest Dubuque County. This scenic overlook provides viewers with a vast view of the Driftless Region. The overlook includes amphitheater-style seating, a telescope for viewing, and a picnic area. It's a frequent stop for residents and visitors who want to check out the vista at all times of year. Nearby local businesses benefit from the site's popularity.

The image captures a viewpoint area equipped with two benches and a telescope positioned for observation. The surrounding landscape features lush green fields and distant hills under a partly cloudy sky. A small informational sign stands near the viewpoint, adding context to the scenery.

Recent Progress:

Completed railing maintenance
Performed sidewalk leveling

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Balltown Overlook			$25,000.00	$213,640.00	$25,000.00	$263,640.00
Complete engineering analysis to determine feasibility for creating accessible route from pulloff to overlook and barrier separation from road.	D	PK	$25,000.00				Evaluate roadway changes to accommodate vertical separation and sidewalk.
Replace barrier railings.	D	PK		$75,000.00
Create an accessible route from the vehicular pulloff to the overlook	D	TR		$38,640.00
Create a pedestrian-vehicular barrier wall.	D	PK		$100,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of creating interpretive exhibits about the Driftless Region.	N	PK			$25,000.00		Interpretive area, shade trellises, and sunken outdoor classroom.

The diagram presents a detailed layout of an outdoor space plan. It includes proposed additions such as a sunken outdoor classroom, an area for seating or picnicking, and an interpretive area labeled as 'Driftless Region.' The layout illustrates the spatial relationships between these features, emphasizing their arrangement in the overall design.

The map outlines an area near Ridge Road, highlighting features such as the park boundary, potential acquisitions, regulatory floodway, 100-year and 500-year flood zones, and a pedestrian-vehicular separation barrier. The marked routes and labels help to comprehend the spatial relationships and critical locations in the area.

Bankston Park

17826 Bankston Park Road | 142 Acres

Recreation Park

Bankston Park is a rural woodland and meadow in northwest Dubuque County that offers an isolated getaway for primitive campers. The park also maintains a network of hiking trails with stream access for trout fishing. The wooded hilltop on the south side of Bankston Park has a high concentration of karst depressions, a sinkhole feature of the local geology, which feeds underground water reserves and cools the ground temperature. These unique conditions support a population of the endangered Pleistocene snail.

The image shows an aerial view of a park landscape featuring rolling grassy areas, clusters of trees, and clear winding paths that navigate through the terrain. The park appears to have several open spaces and a few benches scattered throughout the area, providing a serene natural environment.

Recent Progress:

Trail construction
Installed a group campfire at the north side of the park
Raised outlet structure to improve the pond

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Bankston Park			$651,556.47	$60,000.00	$888,000.00	$1,599,556.47
Install a pedestrian bridge.	N	PK	$225,000.00				Pre-engineered steel bridge over stream.
Add a new shower house.	N	PK			$600,000.00
Add primitive group camping area and crushed stone on the east end of the park.	N	PK	$75,000.00
Improve existing primitive campground.	D	PK			$288,000.00		Add gravel drives, formalize the camping area.
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Forest restoration.	D	HP	$44,077.13
Retire picnic area; maintain access to pump pit.	D	PK	$5,000.00
Establish oak savanna interior to primitive camping area.	D	HP	$2,479.34				Shade and reduce mowing at campsite.
Connect trail system.	N	TR		$60,000.00
Stream stabilization, fishing improvements.	D	WQ	$300,000.00

This image represents a scale bar for measurement, showing distances ranging from 0 feet to 600 feet in increments of 150 feet. A north arrow is also included, indicating direction.

Legend
Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions
Regulatory Floodway
100-Year Floodplain
500-Year Floodplain

Retire Picnic Area;
Maintain Access to Pump Pit

Establish Proposed Trail Loops

Stabilize Stream
Add Primitive Group Camping
& Crushed Stone

A triangular tent symbol on an orange background, indicating a camping or outdoor area.

Create Oxbow Interpretive Area

Icon representing a bench with a backrest in orange and black.

Add Gravel Campground Drives

Primitive Group Camping

Establish a Savanna at
Campsite

Preservation Area

Bowstring Wildlife Area

727 Creekbranch Lane | 88 Acres
Wildlife Area

Bowstring Wildlife Area is one of Dubuque County Conservation’s newest park areas, a rugged hunting and hiking area in southern Dubuque County between Bernard and Zwingle, with Lytle Creek meandering along the edge of the property. The park entrance is home to a unique "bowstring," historic tied arch bridge which sits at its original location over Lytle Creek.

The image depicts a serene water scene with two individuals in kayaks, navigating the calm waters of a river. The kayakers are surrounded by lush green trees on both sides of the waterway. In the background, a distinctive, old iron bridge spans the river, adding a sense of depth and perspective to the scene. The sky is overcast, suggesting a moderately cloudy day.

Recent Progress

Created gravel parking lot

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Bowstring Wildlife Area			$458,402.20	$100,000.00	$-	$558,402.20
Install primitive toilet. Add a small shelter. Improve kayak launch site.	N N D	PK PK PK		$35,000.00 $50,000.00 $15,000.00
Restore historic bridge for pedestrian access.	D	TR	$225,000.00				Evaluation underway at time of publication.
Remove trash from the park. Ecological restoration.	D D	PK HP	$75,000.00 $158,402.20

The map outlines the park boundary in green and indicates potential acquisitions with dashed lines. It visually represents the regulatory floodway, as well as the 100-year and 500-year floodplain areas, distinguished by different colored lines. The contour lines indicate varying elevation across the terrain. A North arrow is included for orientation, along with a scale bar at the bottom showing measurement units.

Remove Trash

The image features two related icons on an orange background. The left icon shows a person in a kayak paddling on water, symbolizing kayaking activities. The right icon depicts a fishing hook positioned near a fish, indicating fishing activities. These icons are commonly used to represent water sports and activities.

Improve Kayak Launch Site

Restore Historic Bridge
for Pedestrian Access

This image features three distinct icons: the first icon depicts a slanted roof often associated with buildings, the second shows a house silhouette with a crescent moon that may indicate lodging or nighttime accommodation, and the third icon represents a parking area, outlined with a bold 'P'. These icons are typically used in signage to convey information about building types, lodging, and parking facilities.

Fillmore Recreation Area

21655 Highway 151 | 105 Acres

Recreation Park

This recreation area offers a nine-hole golf course. The clubhouse supports golfing and serves food and drinks as well as provides showers and restrooms. In addition to the golf course, park amenities like a playground, campground, and kayak launch area along White Water Creek provide a pleasant recreation experience.

The image depicts a golf course layout from above, showcasing multiple green areas, fairways, and walking paths throughout the course. There are several circular greens, densely wooded areas, and a parking facility located at the top right of the image. The clear paths and layout provide an overview of the terrain and its spatial relationships.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Fillmore Recreation Area			$225,000.00	$1,862,220.39	$350,000.00	$2,437,220.39
Expand and make campground improvements.	D	PK			$350,000.00		Upgrade electrical service, water, add restroom and shower house.
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$90,220.39			Woodland/stream bank on bluff west of the golf course; handwork only.
Pave gravel drive and pads within campground.	D	PK		$192,000.00
Install kayak access point and create water trails.	N	TR	$25,000.00
Install a new roof for the clubhouse.	D	PK		$80,000.00			Evaluate replacing with a steel roof in the future.
Irrigation system renovation.	D	PK		$1,500,000.00
Renovate existing golf course maintenance building.	D	PK	$200,000.00

Scale indicator showing distance measurements from 0 to 800 feet with a north directional arrow.

The map details the Fillmore Recreation Area, highlighting areas for campground expansion, renovation of existing buildings, and paving sections of gravel drive. Key features include pathways and landmarks marked with icons and descriptions, showing spatial relationships across the area. The legend includes symbols for restrooms, maintenance buildings, and recreational paths, which are crucial for navigating the site.

The map illustrates the geographical layout of an area with contours and floodplain designations. It includes a legend that explains the markings for park boundaries, potential acquisitions, regulatory floodway, 100-year floodplain, 500-year floodplain, and paved drive. Major features like 'HIGHWAY 151' are marked, along with directional indicators and scale bars to assist in navigation.

Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions

Regulatory Floodway

100-Year Floodplain

500-Year Floodplain

Paved Drive

HIGHWAY 151

Finley's Landing Park

24709 Finley's Landing Road | 107 Acres
Marina

Finley's Landing is a remote park, beach, and marina located on the north end of Dubuque County. Its primary attraction is a large sandbar which offers close-up, immersive views of the Mississippi River. The park also hosts a small marina and boat ramp, making it a popular launching point for boats and fishermen. The campground, equipped with restrooms and electric sites, is an excellent addition for boaters and beachgoers alike, allowing for an extended stay at the isolated park. Additionally, an archaeological site exists at the northwest side of the park, providing opportunity for a future interpretive exhibit.

The image shows an aerial view of a park near a river. To the left, there is a sandy beach area. In the center, a parking lot accommodates several vehicles, leading to a series of structures possibly used for park services. The area is surrounded by greenery, indicating wooded regions that provide a natural habitat. The spatial arrangement includes the river forming one boundary of the park and the beach providing access to water activities.

Recent Progress:

Installed new bridge and bridge lighting
Updated electric lines
Repaved the roads

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Finley's Landing Park			$391,500.00	$75,000.00	$780,000.00	$1,246,500.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$60,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell. Explore land protection for threatened and endangered species through private and/or public means.
Stabilize primitive trail system.	D	TR	$98,000.00				Trail maintenance; add wood chips.
Add primitive trails.	N	TR	$196,000.00
Add ADA route for beach access.	D	TR	$19,500.00				Mobi-mat system - two 6.5' x 100' mats, plus staple extractor, plus shipping.
Add ADA parking for sandbar access.	D	PK	$18,000.00
Add tent platforms at the hike-in campsite.	N	PK		$15,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ			$180,000.00
Replace the showerhouse.	D	PK			$600,000.00
Habitat improvements, restoration.	D	HP	$60,000.00				Ruffed grouse and woodland habitat.

The map illustrates Finley's Landing Park with contour lines indicating elevation changes. It highlights various features and proposed improvements such as gathering spaces, trail networks, and accessible routes for beach access. Key landmarks like Bastwood Creek and Finley's Landing Road are noted, along with icons representing activities and facilities. The spatial relationships between features are outlined with dashed lines and annotations explaining each point of interest.

The map illustrates the layout of the park, highlighting areas such as the park boundary, potential acquisitions, and regulatory floodplain zones. Labeling includes features like accessible beach mats, ADA access from the parking lot to the railroad, woodland habitat removal, access road repavement, stream restoration, and a proposed stepping stone crossing. The legend provides symbol meanings for better understanding of the designated areas and proposed work.

Add an Accessible Route for Beach Access

Add Interpretive Signage to Archaeological Site

Add Gathering Space

Create ADA Access from Proposed Parking Lot to Railroad

Add Stepping Stone Crossing

Improve Trail Network

Improve Woodland Habitat

Repave the Access Road

Add Tent Platforms at Primitive Group Camping

Perform Stream Restoration

An icon depicting a sprout growing out of soil, set against an orange background.

Add Stepping Stone Crossing

Graf Park

490 Graf Road | 8 Acres

Recreation Park

Graf Park is situated along the midpoint of Heritage Trail. The general-use park includes a playground, restrooms, rentable pavilion, and open space along the Little Maquoketa River.

The image shows an aerial view of a large grassy area marked by a few trees, two small dirt patches, and a creek flowing along one side of the space. The natural layout is open with a mix of greenery, providing a sense of the land's openness and topography.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks

Graf Park			$600,000.00	$5,000.00	$-	$605,000.00
Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		$5,000.00
Expand access throughout the park by adding trails.	N	TR	$20,000.00
Add a ride/hike-in camping area with tent platforms.	N	PK	$15,000.00
Install public water supply and drinking fountain.	N	PK	$250,000.00				Enhance regional appeal of Heritage Trail.
Install a bike repair station.	N	PK	$15,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	$300,000.00

The map depicts Graf Park with marked trails, a parking area labeled 'P', and icons indicating facilities like restrooms and bicycle access. The Little Maquoketa River is shown winding through the park. Spatial relationships between features are clear, and routes are indicated by dashed lines, which connect various points of interest. The yellow lines denote roads and pathways, while the icons provide key information about available amenities.

The map displays the layout of a park area, illustrating the park boundary marked by a dashed yellow line, potential acquisition areas indicated in red, and various floodplain zones highlighted in blue. The 100-year floodplain and the 500-year floodplain are both denoted, along with a legend that explains the color coding. The map's orientation is indicated with a north arrow at the bottom, and scale markers show distance measurements.

Create Ride/Hike-In Camping Area with Tent Platforms

Heritage Pond & Campground

11330 Rupp Hollow Road | 16 Acres
Recreation Park

Located north of Dubuque in Sageville, Heritage Pond is the most highly frequented trailhead of the Heritage Trail, with easy access from Dubuque. This is where the Heritage Trail transitions from pavement to crushed limestone, moving from a more urban to a more rural feel. The pond is a popular fishing spot and offers easy waters for kayakers or stand-up paddleboarders. The campground and picnic pavilions make extended stays and long rides on the trail a breeze for locals and visitors. As a trailhead, Heritage Pond is a central hub connecting to other parks in this region of the county, including Sageville Marsh, Proving Grounds Recreation Area, John Deere Marsh, and The Little Maquoketa River Mounds.

The image showcases an aerial perspective of a landscape featuring a small lake. Surrounding the lake are areas of greenery and a visible road network that includes intersections. A parking area is located on the bottom left, with several parked vehicles, while the upper part of the image shows additional buildings and areas of vegetation. The layout highlights the relationship between the parking, roadways, and natural features in the vicinity.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Heritage Pond & Campground			$1,135,000.00	$975,000.00	$-	$2,110,000.00
Plant trees, buffer campground and pond.	N	HP	$50,000.00				Overstory and understory trees for campground and highway buffering.
Improve campground, renovate drive lanes, parking areas.	D	PK		$750,000.00			Repave/Redo individual sites (gravel or new concrete), add shower house.
Install a nature playground.	N	PK		$225,000.00
Expand and renovate the existing parking lot.	D	PK	$455,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration and erosion control along the south side of the pond.	D	WQ	$86,000.00
Add pedestrian pathway along south and west side of pond.	N	TR	$168,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of rock climbing at the west side	N	PK		$-
Re-route trail around parking area.	N	TR	$42,000.00
Add tent platforms, steps and formalize bike/hike and camping.	N	TR	$60,000.00				Camping around the base of the west side bluff, facing Sageville Marsh.
Add parking at tent platform area, remove shelter that is in disrepair.	N	PK	$49,000.00
Create "Gateway to Heritage Trail" & interpretive exhibits.	N	TR	$225,000.00				Work with local partner to re-evaluate; create an immersive experience that explores the history of the former railroad.

Legend

Orange icon with a white outline of the letter 'P', indicating parking.

Expand & Renovate the Parking Lot

P↑

Improve the Gateway to the Heritage Trail

Icon depicting a climber on a rope against an orange background.

Three symbols indicating outdoor activities: a question mark for information, a hiker with a staff, and a cyclist.

Plant Tree Buffer

Refurbish & Relocate Interpretive Signage Along Heritage Trail

Orange triangular camping sign indicating a campsite area.

Add Primitive Group Camping & Tent Platforms

Parking symbol in orange background with a black letter 'P'.

Pull back parking area; Remove the Existing Shelter; Add Tent Platform Parking

Heritage Pond

Renovate & Repave Campsites

Icon indicating a shower with a person using it.

Shower Facility

Plant Tree Buffer

INTERSTATE POWER PRESERVE

7523 Olde Davenport Road | 83 acres

Recreation Park

Interstate Power Company (IPC) Forest Preserve is in southeast Dubuque County between Highway 61 and Highway 52. Hiking trails have been used locally since the property was donated by the Interstate Power Company in 1988. More recently, a network of mountain biking trails has been built by the Tri-State Mountain Bike Riders and immensely increased use of the park. As a forest preserve, woodland management is a key priority, and installing bat houses would also be a positive improvement at this park. The county also maintains an 8-acre swath of restored prairie here.

The image presents a scenic landscape featuring curving dirt paths that weave through a field of tall grass. The grass appears golden and textured, indicating it may be late in the growing season. In the background, there are trees that provide a natural border to the scene, suggesting an outdoor recreational area. This layout could indicate walking or biking trails, with the visual paths showing various routes available to visitors.

Recent Progress:

Installed a restroom

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Interstate Power Preserve			$154,435.26	-	$530,200.00	$684,635.26
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Expand parking lot.	N	PK			$130,200.00
Add more mountain bike trails as park expands.	N	TR			$320,000.00
Add shade shelter.	N	PK			$80,000.00
Woodland restoration.	D	HP	$120,000.00				Remove invasive species.
Maintain existing prairie.	D	HP	$34,435.26

The map illustrates the topographical features of Interstate Power Preserve with contour lines indicating elevation changes. It includes a secured boundary around the power facility, labeled elevation points, and designated areas for biking and parking. The boundary and landmarks are marked to help navigate the preserve's terrain effectively.

The map outlines the park area with marked boundaries, illustrating different floodplain zones (100-Year and 500-Year) and potential acquisition areas. Paths, existing features, and a prominent prairie area are labeled. The legend indicates what each line and color represents, aiding navigation and understanding of environmental contexts.

Legend

50 Ft

Maintain Existing Prairie

Olde Davenport Road

Secured Boundary Around Power Facility

Parking

John Deere Marsh

18714 Riverside Road | 81 Acres

Wildlife Area

John Deere Marsh is managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and assisted by the Dubuque County Conservation Board. The marsh attracts many bird and waterfowl species, making it a prime location for birding. Additionally, there is a hiking trail that goes through the area and a gravel boat ramp that allows small watercraft to access the Mississippi River.

Two cranes wading through shallow water amidst tall brown grass and reeds.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
John Deere Marsh			$-	22,000.00	$-	22,000.00
Ecological restoration. Improve water trail access.	D D	HP TR		$18,000.00 $4,000.00

The map displays an area with marked park boundaries, including indicators for potential acquisitions, regulatory floodways, and different floodplain zones (100-year and 500-year). The legend provides details on these markings, aiding in understanding the spatial layout and significance of each area.

LITTLE MAQUOKETA RIVER

A

Little Maquoketa River Mounds

18062 Walking Way | 41 Acres

Nature Preserve

Protection of the Little Maquoketa River Mounds represents an effort to preserve and conserve the extraordinarily beautiful lands along the Little Maquoketa River, stretching from Durango to the Mississippi River, and to help connect the Heritage Trail to additional significant historical, cultural, and natural areas.

The image shows a birds-eye view of a rural landscape featuring a road that runs along the right side. A circular clearing is visible at the bottom center of the image, with a house and trees to the left, indicating a wooded area. The clearing appears to be under construction or excavation, while the surrounding area includes grassy fields and tree cover. The spatial layout indicates a transition from natural forested land to developed clearing and roadway.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Little Maquoketa River Mounds			$603,000.00	$288,000.00	$-	$891,000.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$72,000.00			Anticipate hand removal, spot spray, etc. over mounds; remove invasive species and woody vegetation; put on a cycle of prescribed burning; restore prairie.
Refurbish educational signage about the cultural significance and history of the mounds.	D	PK		$4,000.00
Remove the fencing.	D	PK	$87,000.00
Improve parking lot.	D	PK	$66,000.00
Re-align trail to mounds.	D	TR		$28,000.00			Minimize structural/steps to mounds.
Create a trail loop that goes around the mounds.	N	TR		$72,000.00
Remove the wood timbers along the trail, stabilize grade with wood chips.	D	TR		$112,000.00
Improve the trailhead and connection to Heritage Pond & Trail.	D	TR	$450,000.00

The map displays a geographic layout showing the park boundary marked in red, areas designated for potential acquisitions, regulatory floodway, and floodplain areas identified as 100-year and 500-year floodplains. An existing fence is also indicated. The map includes a parking lot labeled 'P' and the road name W John Deere Road at the bottom. A north arrow and scale bar are provided for orientation, aiding in spatial understanding.

LITTLE MAQUOKETA RIVER

Locher Recreation Area

116 Acres

Recreation Park

Locher Recreation Area is a 116-acre parcel of land that has recently been acquired by Dubuque County Conservation, who was the benefactor of Eastern Iowa Conservation Foundation's efforts, as well as Pheasants Forever and the Department of Natural Resources. The area will become a new park space for the public featuring more nature-based recreation and activities.

The image captures a tranquil lakeside scene with a sandy shoreline. On the left, there is a well-maintained grassy area with a few trees in the background. The water appears clear and calm, and the sky is bright blue, indicating a sunny day. The sandy beach in the foreground transitions to the grass further back, providing a natural setting for recreation or relaxation.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Locher Recreation Area			$6,684,355.37	$280,000.00	$395,000.00	$7,359,355.37
Add parking lots.	N	PK	$672,000.00
Add paved access drives.	N	PK	$546,000.00
Establish prairie.	N	HP	$42,355.37
Add a large pavilion with restrooms and fire pits.	N	PK	$1,050,000.00
Add public water supply.	N	PK	$225,000.00
Add a small shelter.	N	PK		$80,000.00
Add riprap fishing nodes/fish habitat.	N	WQ	$180,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration around Locher Lake.	N	WQ	$2,100,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration at the North Fork Maquoketa River.	N	WQ	$300,000.00
Install bird blinds.	N	HP			$20,000.00
Install boardwalk overlook.	N	PK			$150,000.00
Add a pedestrian bridge across the river.	N	PK			$225,000.00
Establish a self-serve kayak rental stand.	N	PK		$50,000.00
Add a boat launch.	N	PK	$125,000.00
Add an ADA-accessible kayak launch.	N	PK	$60,000.00
Add pit toilets near the boat launch.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Add a 10' wide path around Locher Lake.	N	TR	$1,120,000.00
Add a single-track companion trail around lake.	N	TR	$80,000.00
Create walking trails to the south of the lake.	N	TR	$124,000.00
Create an additional access drive on the southwest side of the property off HWY 136.	N	PK		$150,000.00
Evaluate and study alternative routes, future trail connection to Cascade.	N	TR	$25,000.00

The image provides a scale for a map, featuring measurement markers for distances in feet, ranging from 0 to 200, along with a north arrow indicating orientation. This scale can be used to understand distances on a corresponding map.

100-Year Floodplain

500-Year Floodplain

Self-Serve Kayak Rental

Add Additional Access Drive

Install Bird Blinds

Add Trail Connection to Cascade

LOCHER RECREATION AREA

116 acres

Several potential trail routes to connect to Cascade are presented on the following page. Specifically, a trail that connects to the Cascade Riverfront Trail would create a connection into town. As the park is developed, a more thorough feasibility study to evaluate a connection should be completed to understand the potential costs, strengths, and weaknesses of each route.

Massey Marina

9526 Massey Station Road | 36 acres
Marina

Massey Marina is a riverfront park on the eastern edge of Dubuque County. The park is primarily used as a marina and has many amenities for boats including two harbors and a gas dock. The expansive campground makes it easy for tent and RV campers to spend a night on the river. Fishing accommodations include piers and a fish cleaning station. A concession stand and shelter make Massey Marina the ideal spot for a picnic on the river.

The image depicts a wooden dock with a series of supports extending over a calm body of water. The dock appears to have space for multiple boats and is framed by lush greenery on either side, indicating a tranquil outdoor setting. No specific text or labels are visible in the image.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Massey Marina			$292,330.58	$62,000.00	$264,000.00	$618,330.58
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	$102,000.00
Conduct trail feasibility study to link Massey Marina to Mines of Spain.	N	TR	$25,000.00				Conduct a study with State of Iowa to create a trail connection to Mines of Spain.
Install more inland trails at bottomland hardwood forest.	N	TR		$62,000.00
Campground improvements.	D	PK	$155,000.00				Paving, upgrade electrical service, fix water lines, add tent platforms, reconfigure the dump station.
New parking lot and boat ramp.	D	PK			$264,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Woodland restoration.	D	HP	$10,330.58				At the bottomland hardwood site.

Icon of a sprouting plant on an orange background.

The image includes a north arrow pointing upwards with a scale bar, displaying distances of 0, 150, and 300 feet. The scale helps in understanding the distances represented on the accompanying map.

Park Boundary

Potential Acquisitions

Regulatory Floodway

100-Year Floodplain

500-Year Floodplain

Icons indicating parking, boat launch, camping area, and restrooms with gender symbols.

Make Campground Improvements

Remove Flood Debris and Trash

Conduct Trail Feasibility Study for a Trail Connection to Mines of Spain

This topographic map features contour lines indicating changes in elevation across the terrain. The marked elevation points, such as 650, 700, and 750, help discern the landscape's gradient and altitude changes. The spatial relationships between the contours illustrate the topography effectively, aiding in understanding the landform features and elevation changes.

MASSEY STATION ROAD

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

McCarthy Wildlife Area

100 Acres

This wildlife area is open to public hunting during state hunting seasons. The area was a former crop field and was recently planted with native prairie. Additionally, there is a shelterbelt to prevent wind erosion. Future goals include planting trees and establishing wetlands.

The image shows a wooden entrance gate located at the edge of a grassy area. Beyond the gate lies a dirt road that stretches out into the distant landscape, framed by fields under a clear blue sky. A sign is positioned next to the gate, providing information about the area, but the visible text on the sign is not clear.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
McCarthy Wildlife Area			$25,000.00	$160,000.00	$-	$185,000.00
Wetland design & permitting.	N	WQ	$25,000.00
Wetland development.	N	WQ		$160,000.00

The map illustrates a geographic area delineating the park boundary, areas designated for potential acquisitions, and the locations of regulatory floodways along with the 100-year and 500-year floodplain boundaries. The legend clarifies the meaning of each marking, including the color codes for the different floodplain designations. The north directional arrow confirms the orientation of the map, and the scale provides a reference for distance.

MCCARTHY ROAD

Develop Seasonal Wetland

Miller McGrath Wildlife Area

20909 Millville Road | 93 acres

Wildlife Area

This wildlife area is adjacent to the Heritage Trail and is comprised of prairies and wooded ravines. The pond is stocked with game fish and provides good opportunities for anglers. Additionally, the area is open to public hunting during designated hunting seasons.

The image captures a scenic view from an elevated perspective, showcasing a house in the foreground with a sloped roof and wooden exterior. Surrounding the house, there are expansive fields with varying shades of green and brown, indicative of autumn. In the background, rolling hills create a picturesque landscape, and a small pond is visible amidst the terrain.

Recent Progress:

Installed an ADA-accessible path to the cabin

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Miller McGrath Wildlife Area			$925,000.00	$133,200.00	$-	$1,058,200.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Develop trails throughout the park.	N	TR		$83,200.00
Evaluate feasibility for more cabins.	N	PK	$10,000.00
Evaluate trail connections to Heritage Trail.	N	TR	$10,000.00
Evaluate feasibility of adding public water supply.	N	PK	$5,000.00
Add additional cabins.	N	PK	$900,000.00
Forest restoration. Prairie restoration.	D D	HP HP		$20,000.00 $30,000.00

The map provides a layout of the park area, indicating the boundaries of the park, potential land acquisitions, areas at risk for flooding, and contour lines that depict the topography. The yellow dashed line represents the regulatory floodway, while the blue lines indicate 100-year and 500-year floodplain areas. A directional compass is located at the bottom, showing north towards the top of the image.

Icon of a small plant growing from soil, set against an orange background.

Forest Restoration

Evaluate Feasibility for More Cabins & Public Water Supply

LEGEND

Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions
Regulatory Floodway
100-Year Floodplain
500-Year Floodplain

Dubuque County Law
Enforcement Shooting Range

MILLVILLE ROAD

Icon depicting a small plant with two leaves on an orange background.

Prairie Restoration

Evaluate Connections to Heritage Trail

HERITAGE TRAIL

010

Mud Lake Park

22312 Golf Lake Road | 30 acres

Marina

Mud Lake Park is a popular riverside campground and marina in northwest Dubuque County, with grand views of the Mississippi. Several shelters and a playground make it a wonderful location to picnic and camp right next to the river. Boat ramps and fishing piers also offer opportunities for anglers. The View Bar & Grill, located within the park, helps make the marina a lively destination during the boating season, and the parking lot and boat slips are often full of RV campers and leisure boats. A long dike paralleling the Mississippi River holds back Mud Lake, the park's namesake, which becomes a popular destination for ice fishing in the winter.

The image depicts a park area with lush green grass and numerous tall trees. The sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a pleasant atmosphere. In the background, there is a glimpse of a body of water, suggesting proximity to a lake or river. A concrete pathway is visible, leading through the park.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Mud Lake Park			$-	$699,000.00	$-	$699,000.00
Replace the old tower.	D	PK		$325,000.00
Convert the former park ranger house into a rentable cabin.	D	PK		$300,000.00
Dredge at fishing access pier to remove sediment.	D	WQ		$50,000.00
Add a parking lot at Playground.	N	PK		$24,000.00

Icon of a camper van in white on a black background.

Icon representing a building structure with a triangular roof and horizontal lines.

The map depicts a geographical area with defined park boundaries, locations for potential acquisitions, and markings for various floodplain zones including the 100-Year and 500-Year floodplains. The legend describes the meaning of different line styles and colors. A north arrow and scale bar indicate directional orientation and the measurement scale.

Dredge to Remove Sediment

Replace the Old Tower

LEGEND
Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions
Regulatory Floodway
100-Year Floodplain
500-Year Floodplain

Picnic Area

P

الله
الحمدلله

GOLF LAKE ROAD

MUD LAKE ROAD

♠ 🌳 🌳 🌳

Convert Former Ranger House to Cabin

New Wine Park

15971 New Wine Park Lane | 170 acres

Recreation Park

Just north of Dyersville on the western end of the county is New Wine Park. This park has a diverse program that attracts campers, picnickers, hikers, and more. An expansive mown lawn area with several shelters and playgrounds provides plenty of room for family picnics. A network of trails guides hikers over the North Fork Little Maquoketa River and up into the dense, wooded slopes. The large campground is fully equipped with restrooms, showers, and RV hookups. Disc golfers also frequent the course located at the park.

The image captures an aerial view of a park showcasing winding pathways, a creek flowing through the area, and scattered trees. In the background, there are fields alongside signs of agricultural activity. The arrangement of paths indicates routes for exploration, and the vegetation provides a natural setting, contributing to the park’s ambiance.

Recent Progress:

Installed additional campsites
New road paving is underway
Added an ADA-accessible pavilion

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
New Wine Park			$1,332,000.00	$2,580,000.00	$-	$3,912,000.00
Evaluate a trail connection into Dyersville and Field of Dreams.	N	TR	$100,000.00				Planning only.
Install a bridge.	N	PK		$225,000.00
Develop water trails and hiking trailhead.	N	TR	$10,000.00
Install a river crossing.	N	TR		$25,000.00
Replace turf with native ground cover.	N	HP	$2,000.00
Replace the shelter.	D	PK	$80,000.00
Install cabins.	N	PK		$2,250,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Improve the shower house.	D	PK	$600,000.00
Forest restoration.	D	HP		$80,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	$540,000.00

The map details New Wine Park, marking specific areas designated for improvements like the shower house and park shelter replacement. It also indicates restoration efforts for the streambank, forest, and the planned installation of a river crossing. Paths and parking areas for visitors are highlighted, with relevant icons for facilities like restrooms and waste disposal, enhancing the spatial understanding of the park layout.

The map outlines the park's spatial layout, highlighting the park boundary, areas designated for potential acquisitions, and floodplain delineations for the 100-year and 500-year floodplains. A legend indicates the meaning of the colors used for different features, while directional indicators help understand orientation, with a connection marked for a private trail leading to Dyersville.

Pohlman Prairie Preserve

13 Acres

Nature Preserve

Pohlman Prairie Preserve contains native prairie remnants, bottomland forest, and it overlooks the Little Maquoketa River Valley. Additionally, there is a 0.4 mile trail that leads to the top of the limestone bluffs. Hunting is prohibited at the preserve.

The image captures a broad view of a lush, green field filled with grass and wildflowers, particularly orange blooms in the foreground. In the background, a treeline is visible against a bright blue sky with scattered clouds, suggesting a pleasant outdoor setting. The perspective is from a dirt path leading into the field.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Pohlman Prairie Preserve			$15,000.00	$-	$-	$15,000.00
Improve trail access into prairie.	N	TR	$15,000.00				Widen or improve the surface of the trail.
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.

The image displays a scale bar frequently used in maps to represent distance, with markings at 0, 50, 100, and 200 feet. A north arrow is also present, indicating the direction of north, essential for navigation and orientation on maps.

The map illustrates the Pohlman Prairie Preserve, featuring elevation contours that denote terrain changes, marked trails such as Heritage Trail, and specific access points including improvements for trail access into the prairie. The map outlines important geographical features and routes, aiding in navigation and understanding of the area.

The image depicts a park area with identified boundaries and floodplain designations. It includes a legend that explains the lines representing the Park Boundary, Potential Acquisitions, Regulatory Floodway, 100-Year Floodplain, and 500-Year Floodplain, aiding interpretation of the layout. The North direction and a scale are also indicated for orientation.

LEGEND
Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions
Regulatory Floodway
100-Year Floodplain
500-Year Floodplain

Improve Trail Access
into Prairie

A large white letter 'P' on a black background, indicating parking.

LITTLE MAQUOKETA RIVER

Proving Grounds

10616 West John Deere Road | 145 Acres

Recreation Park

The Proving Grounds is located north of Dubuque between Heritage Pond and John Deere Marsh. Trails take park goers from the lowland prairies up the wooded slopes to a restored upland prairie where walking trails guide hikers across the ridge of the bluff. Single track trails built by the Tri-State Mountain Bike Riders have made this park a popular destination for mountain bikers. Established on land donated by John Deere corporation, the 145-acre Proving Grounds area will eventually be a contributor to the Little Maquoketa Greenway.

Trail winding through a wooded area with trees and foliage.

Recent Progress:

Installed a new park shelter
Performed prairie restoration
Created mountain biking trails
Added connection to Heritage Trail via West John Deere Road

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Proving Grounds			$110,000.00	$75,000.00	$200,000.00	$385,000.00
Add public water supply.	N	PK			$200,000.00
Create a dog park.	N	PK	$50,000.00
Create gathering areas on the hilltops.	N	PK	$60,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of rock climbing.	N	PK	$–
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$75,000.00

This map illustrates the area surrounding Highway 53 and West John Deere, highlighting the connection to the Heritage Trail and Little Maquoketa River Mounds. Key points include the locations for restrooms, parking, and gathering areas, with marked trails and roads indicating routes for walking and biking. Landmark features and landmarks are visually represented with annotated point markers providing additional context.

The map details the park boundaries indicated by a yellow dashed line, potential acquisition areas, and various floodplain zones (100-Year and 500-Year) with different line styles. It also shows a proposed gathering area marked next to the designated paths along Peru Road and South John Deere Road.

Park Boundary

Potential Acquisitions

Regulatory Floodway

100-Year Floodplain

500-Year Floodplain

Vision Plan

Connection to Heritage Trail & Little Maquoketa River Mounds

Create Gathering Area

HERITAGE TRAIL

Create Gathering Area

SOUTH JOHN DEERE ROAD

Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area

158 Acres

Wildlife Area

This wildlife area contains vast restored prairie. The pond on the south side of the area offers fishing access, and it attracts waterfowl. The area is open to public hunting during designated hunting seasons.

The image depicts a tranquil pond situated in a rural setting, with lush green grass and trees surrounding it. The pond is calm, reflecting the sky above, and there are patches of vegetation along its banks. The area appears to be part of a larger agricultural landscape, with fields visible in the background.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area			$ -	$60,000.00	$ -	$60,000.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$60,000.00

The map depicts the Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area with contour lines indicating elevation changes, marked parking area (P) on the eastern edge, and visible land features such as fields and wooded areas. The boundaries of the area are outlined in a dashed yellow line, which helps to identify the limits of the wildlife region.

The map illustrates the layout of a park area, highlighting the park boundary, regulatory floodway, and various floodplain areas, specifically the 100-year and 500-year floodplains. These features are delineated with contour lines and clearly marked within the legend, which identifies each element and its meaning. The north direction is indicated, along with scale markers for distance.

Swiss Valley Park / Campgrounds

13069 Swiss Valley Road | 66 Acres

Recreation Park

Most Dubuque area people know Swiss Valley. In fact, the Swiss Valley complex is often the one place residents think of when considering Dubuque County Conservation. It is in many ways the gateway to the county's park system: people often come first as one of the 2,000 school children who visit annually on field trips. Swiss Valley includes miles of hiking trails and includes one of the top five destination trout fisheries in Iowa. Swiss Valley Park is located just down the road from Swiss Valley Nature Center and Preserve. While the Preserve focuses on conservation, Swiss Valley Park provides more opportunity for recreation. Across the park there are several shelters, picnic areas, playgrounds, and plenty of flexible lawn space. Disc golfers often come to play the nine-hole course on site. The north side of the park has a sizeable, highly popular campground.

The image depicts a sunny scene at a shallow stream where several children are playing. Some are wading in the water, while others stand on rocks. In the background, a line of children can be seen standing with their feet in the water, and greenery surrounds the area, adding a natural backdrop to the playful scene.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Swiss Valley Park/Campgrounds			$2,450,000.00	$1,050,000.00	$1,300,000.00	$4,800,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Add a 10' wide recreation trail connecting the park, nature preserve, and nature center.	N	TR			$960,000.00
Add a natural playscape.	N	PK	$350,000.00
Add benches.	N	PK			$15,000.00
Update the shower house.	D	PK	$1,200,000.00
Add landscape and buffering around campground.	N	HP		$50,000.00
Campground expansion.	N	PK	$800,000.00
Reconfigure the dump station.	D	PK	$100,000.00				Relocate to accommodate expansion and improved turning radius.
Install an underpass for connecting recreation trail.	N	TR		$1,000,000.00
Replace / Install pedestrian bridge.	N	PK			$325,000.00

Reconfigure Dump Station & Update Shower House

Connect Park, Nature Preserve & Nature Center with 10' Wide Recreation Trail

Swiss Valley Nature Preserve

13606 Swiss Valley Road | 418 Acres

Nature Preserve

Swiss Valley Nature Preserve is Dubuque County Conservation's premiere attraction and the front door to the county park system. Its 10 miles of hiking trails provide endless entertainment for the hikers who frequent the park. Trails are groomed for cross-country skis in the winter to provide year-round appeal. The spring-fed Catfish Creek, which runs through the preserve, is a favorite spot for trout fishing and is regularly stocked. To improve the park system, this plan proposes to link the preserve with Swiss Valley Park, a half mile down the road, with an accessible paved trail. This link will make the resources in both parks easier to access and help promote the idea of a unified park system. Additional improvements in the preserve include addressing parking issues, replacing bridges to minimize flood washouts, and offering opportunities for backcountry hike-in camping.

This image depicts an aerial view of a wooden structure featuring a prominent dome on its roof. The building is situated amidst a natural landscape filled with trees displaying autumn colors. A winding path leads up to the front of the building, surrounded by vegetation, which creates a serene setting. The paths are not labeled, but they appear to provide access to the building from various directions.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Swiss Valley Nature Preserve			$450,000.00	$735,000.00	$0.00	$1,185,000.00
Streambank restoration.	D	HP		$550,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Prairie restoration. Forest restoration. Create outdoor learning lab.	D D N	HP HP PK		$60,000.00 $100,000.00 $25,000.00
Replace pedestrian bridges in the preserve.	D	TR	$450,000.00

P

SWISS VALLEY ROAD

Pond

Create Outdoor Learning Lab

Icon of a bus stop, depicted as a simple outline with lines indicating a roof.

LEGEND
---

Park Boundary

Potential Acquisitions

Replace the Bridge

Forest Restoration

Icon of a small plant emerging from a mound of soil against an orange background.

Icon depicting a plant with three leaves on an orange background.

Existing Fen

Streambank Restoration

Icon of a small plant with two leaves above a soil mound on an orange background.

Prairie Restoration

Icon featuring a sprouting plant on an orange background.

Replace the Bridge

Whitewater Canyon

29912 9th Avenue | 557 acres

Wildlife Area

Whitewater Canyon is at the convergence of Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones Counties and is home to some of the grandest views in the region. It is one of three true canyons in the state of Iowa. Hiking trails guide parkgoers through the upland prairie, onto the wooded slopes, and down into the canyon where one can find a historic Civilian Conservation Corps dam, unique landforms, several caves, and Whitewater Creek, which carves through the base of the valley. Most of the park is undeveloped and will stay that way – it remains one of the last great escapes from civilization in Dubuque County. Currently, it is a popular spot for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation.

The image depicts a narrow trail alongside a rocky cliff. Two hikers can be seen walking on the path, with lush greenery and autumn foliage framing the scene. The cliff appears rugged, composed of exposed rock, while the trees on either side display a mix of green and yellow leaves, indicative of the fall season.

Recent Progress:

Installed a restroom
Developed a new forestry management plan

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Whitewater Canyon			$122,000.00	$320,000.00	$-	$442,000.00
Prairie restoration.	D	HP		$60,000.00
Woodland restoration.	D	HP		$240,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Improve the road and entry signage.	D	PK		$20,000.00
Add rock climbing access.	N	PK		$-
Land acquisition - to be determined.	N	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Perform trail maintenance.	D	TR	$60,000.00				Repair / reroute trails in erodible areas.
Fix the drainage at the entry road to prevent washing out.	D	WQ	$50,000.00
Add switchbacks to the trail system to overlook (reduce trail maintenance, erosion).	D	TR	$12,000.00

Wetland Mitigation

LEGEND
Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions

An icon depicting a plant sprouting from soil against an orange background.

Perform Woodland Savanna Restoration

Icon representing agriculture with a sprout on an orange background.

Perform Woodland Savanna Restoration

天
天

Improve the Road,
Drainage & Entry Signage

CUROE ROAD

Whitewater Canyon Road

Add Trail Switchbacks to Prevent Erosion

Revitalize the Prairie

LEGEND
Park Boundary
Potential Acquisitions

Potential Land Acquisition

Existing Historic CCC Spillway

Lost Canyon; Valley of 13 Caves

Two icons representing climbing and caving activities.

PROPOSED BUDGET

Budget Process

Several factors drove the budget and prioritization process. These included:

Public Input: Feedback from both the public input survey and community open houses offered insight into what community members want and value most in the park system. Additionally, it identified need gaps and opportunities for new amenities.
Visitation Analysis: The analysis using Placer.ai helped to determine which parks have high visitation and therefore might warrant more investment in amenities and routine maintenance.
State of Repair: Park visits and conversations with the Conservation Board gave insight into current park conditions and provided an understanding of necessary maintenance and amenity lifecycles.
Sequence: Certain improvement recommendations, especially those that are larger and more costly, were separated into phases. This helps to make large projects more manageable and realistic to undertake, doing so in a way that makes chronological sense for a park's development.

Investment by Park Classification

The majority of infrastructure and capital expenditures occur at properties classified as Recreation Parks, Regional Trails, and Marinas. More expensive recommendations include campground improvements, nature center renovations, trail improvements, and new cabins. Additionally, countywide improvements were allocated a large portion of the budget to encompass items like short-, medium-, and long-term land acquisition, new cabins, and a new maintenance facility.

Investment by Project Type

Improvement recommendations were also identified as either a New Improvement (N), a Deferred Maintenance/Code Compliance Improvement (D), or a Park and Preserve Land Acquisition (L) improvement. This resulted in a relatively even split between New and Deferred Improvements (both totaled 42%), and 16% of costs designated to Park and Preserve Land Acquisition.

The bar chart illustrates the data regarding environmental enhancements. It features categories such as 'Trail Improvements/Connections', 'Habitat Preservation & Restoration', 'Land Protection & Acquisition of Sensitive Nat. Areas', 'Water Quality Enhancements', 'Park Infrastructure Enhancements', 'Floodplain Management/Flood Reduction Measures', and 'Hunting and Fishing Land Access'. Each category is represented by three bars, indicating values for measures #1, #2, and #3, marked with progressively lighter shades of red. The vertical axis measures a numerical value from 0 to 180.

Investment by Improvement Category

The budget priorities generally align well with the public’s priorities as confirmed in the 2026 and 2020 surveys. The survey asked respondents to rank their priorities for the future. Figure 4 above shows the results of the survey in 2026, revealing the top three priorities to be Trail Improvements/Connections, Habitat Preservation & Restoration, and Land Protection & Acquisition of Sensitive Natural Areas.
Each improvement was categorized based on which priority it responds to as a way to generally understand how public input corresponds with the budget*. However, these categories do not factor in that different categories will inherently differ in cost. For example, Park Infrastructure Enhancements received the largest portion of funding, but ranked lower in the public input. This is because improvements within this category generally are more costly than improvements within some of the other categories. Additionally, the

Figure 4: Survey Question 4 - What are your priorities for the future? Please rank the following from 1-7 (most to least important).

categories do not factor in that opportunities for certain improvements will differ across the park system. For example, there is less opportunity for Water Quality Enhancements across the park system than there is for Trail Improvements. Given this, the budget priorities overall align with the public's priorities.

See corresponding figures on pgs. 77-79.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Baltown Overlook			$25,000.00	$213,640.00	$25,000.00	$263,640.00
Complete engineering analysis to determine feasibility for creating accessible route from pulloff to overlook and barrier separation from road.	D	PK	$25,000.00				Evaluate roadway changes to accommodate vertical separation and sidewalk.
Replace barrier railings.	D	PK		$75,000.00
Create an accessible route from the vehicular pulloff to the overlook	D	TR		$38,640.00
Create a pedestrian-vehicular barrier wall.	D	PK		$100,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of creating interpretive exhibits about the Driftless Region.	N	PK			$25,000.00		Interpretive area, shade trellises, and sunken outdoor classroom.

Bankston Park			$651,556.47	$60,000.00	$888,000.00	$1,599,556.47
Install a pedestrian bridge.	N	PK	$225,000.00				Pre-engineered steel bridge over stream.
Add a new shower house.	N	PK			$600,000.00
Add primitive group camping area and crushed stone on the East end of the park.	N	PK	$75,000.00
Improve existing primitive campground.	D	PK			$288,000.00		Add gravel drives, formalize the camping area.
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Forest restoration.	D	HP	$44,077.13
Retire picnic area; maintain access to pump pit.	D PK		$5,000.00
Establish oak savanna interior to primitive camping area.	D	HP	$2,479.34				Shade and reduce mowing at campsite.
Connect trail system.	N	TR		$60,000.00
Stream stabilization, fishing improvements.	D	WQ	$300,000.00

Bowstring Wildlife Area			$458,402.20	$100,000.00	$-	$558,402.20
Install primitive toilet.	N	PK		$35,000.00
Add a small shelter.	N	PK		$50,000.00
Improve kayak launch site.	D	PK		$15,000.00
Restore historic bridge for pedestrian access.	D	TR	$225,000.00				Evaluation underway at time of the sale
Remove trash from the park.	D	PK	$75,000.00
Ecological Restoration.	D	HP	$158,402.20

Fillmore Recreation Area			$225,000.00	$1,862,220.39	$350,000.00	$2,437,220.39
Expand and make campground improvements.	D	PK			$350,000.00		Upgrade electrical service, water, add restroom and shower house.
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$90,220.39			Woodland/stream bank on bluff west of the golf course; handwork only.
Pave gravel drive and pads within campground.	D	PK		$192,000.00
Install kayak access point and create water trails.	N	TR	$25,000.00
Install a new roof for the clubhouse.	D	PK		$80,000.00			Evaluate replacing with a steel roof in the future.

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Irrigation system renovation.	D	PK		1,500,000.00
Renovate existing golf course maintenance building.	D	PK	200,000.00

Finley's Landing Park			391,500.00	75,000.00	780,000.00	1,246,500.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		60,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell. Explore land protection for threatened and endangered species through private and/or public means.
Stabilize primitive trail system.	D	TR	98,000.00				Trail maintenance; add wood chips.
Add primitive trails.	N	TR	196,000.00
Add ADA route for beach access.	D	TR	19,500.00				Mobi-mat system - two 6.5' × 100' mats, plus staple extractor, plus shipping.
Add ADA parking for sand bar access.	D	PK	18,000.00
Add tent platforms at the hike-in campsite.	N	PK		15,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ			180,000.00
Replace the showerhouse.	D	PK			600,000.00
Habitat improvements, restoration.	D	HP	60,000.00				Ruffed grouse and woodland habitat.

Graf Park			600,000.00	5,000.00	-	605,000.00
Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		5,000.00
Expand access throughout the park by adding trails.	N	TR	20,000.00
Add a ride/hike-in camping area with tent platforms.	N	PK	15,000.00
Install public water supply and drinking fountain.	N	PK	250,000.00				Enhance regional appeal of Heritage Trail.
Install a bike repair station.	N	PK	15,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	300,000.00

Heritage Pond & Campground			1,135,000.00	975,000.00	-	2,110,000.00
Plant trees, buffer campground and pond.	N	HP	50,000.00				Overstory and understory trees for campground and highway buffering.
Improve campground, renovate drive lanes, parking areas.	D	PK		750,000.00			Repave/Redo individual sites (gravel or new concrete), add shower house.
Install a nature playground.	N	PK		225,000.00
Expand and renovate the existing parking lot.	D	PK	455,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration and erosion control along the south side of the pond.	D	WQ	86,000.00
Add pedestrian pathway along south and west side of pond.	N	TR	168,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of rock climbing at the west side	N	PK		-

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Re-route trail around parking area.	N	TR	$42,000.00
Add tent platforms, steps and formalize bike/hike and camping.	N	TR	$60,000.00				Camping around the base of the west side bluff, facing Sageville Marsh.
Add parking at tent platform area, remove shelter that is in disrepair.	N	PK	$49,000.00
Create "Gateway to Heritage Trail" & interpretive exhibits.	N	TR	$225,000.00				Work with local partner to re-evaluate; create an immersive experience that explores the history of the former railroad.

Heritage Trail			$105,000.00	$6,445,000.00	$-	$6,550,000.00
Dyersville Trailhead - Add restrooms.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Dyersville Trailhead - Plant shade trees.	N	TR	$5,000.00
Farley Access Point - Add parking lot.	N	PK		$20,000.00
Graf Trailhead - Install public water supply and drinking fountain.	N	TR	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Install a bike repair station.	N	TR	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Graf Trailhead - Add a ride/hike-in camping area with tent platforms.	N	PK	$-				Graf Trailhead line item costs included in Graf Park section.
Twin Springs Trailhead - Enhance kayak launch.	D	PK	$15,000.00
Budd Road Trailhead - Enhance kayak launch.	D	PK	$15,000.00
Budd Road Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		$5,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Add restrooms.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Restore kayak access.				$15,000.00
Durango Trailhead - Enhance fishing access.	D	PK		$5,000.00
Sageville Trailhead - Add primitive camping with tent platforms.	N	PK	$-				Sageville Trailhead improvement costs included in Heritage Pond & Campground section.
Streambank Restoration.	D	HP		$1,000,000.00
Replace bridges #3 and #6.	D	TR		$4,000,000.00
Replace bridge #11.	D	TR		$700,000.00
Replace bridges #20 and #24.	D	TR		$700,000.00

Interstate Power Preserve			$154,435.26	$-	$530,200.00	$684,635.26
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Expand parking lot.	N	PK			$130,200.00
Add more mountain bike trails as park expands.	N	TR			$320,000.00
Add shade shelter.	N	PK			$80,000.00

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Woodland restoration.	D	HP	$120,000.00				Remove invasive species.
Maintain existing prairie.	D	HP	$34,435.26
John Deere Marsh				$22,000.00		$22,000.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$18,000.00
Improve water trail access.	D	TR		$4,000.00
Little Maquoketa River Mounds			$603,000.00	$288,000.00		$891,000.00
Ecological restoration.							Anticipate hand removal, spot spray, etc. over mounds; remove invasive species and woody vegetation; put on a cycle of prescribed burning; restore prairie.
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$72,000.00
Refurbish educational signage about the cultural significance and history of the mounds.	D	PK		$4,000.00
Remove the fencing.	D	PK	$87,000.00
Improve parking lot.	D	PK	$66,000.00
Re-align trail to mounds.	D	TR		$28,000.00			Minimize structural/steps to Mounds.
Create a trail loop that goes around the mounds.	N	TR		$72,000.00
Remove the wood timbers along the trail, stabilize grade with wood chips.	D	TR		$112,000.00
Improve the trailhead and connection to Heritage Pond & Trail.	D	TR	$450,000.00

Locher Recreation Area			$6,684,355.37	$280,000.00	$395,000.00	$7,359,355.37
Add parking lots.	N	PK	$672,000.00
Add paved access drives.	N	PK	$546,000.00
Establish prairie.	N	HP	$42,355.37
Add a large pavilion with restrooms and fire pits.	N	PK	$1,050,000.00
Add public water supply.	N	PK	$225,000.00
Add a small shelter.	N	PK		$80,000.00
Add riprap fishing nodes/fish habitat.	N	WQ	$180,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration around Locher Lake.	N	WQ	$2,100,000.00
Perform shoreline restoration at the North Fork Maquoketa River.	N	WQ	$300,000.00
Install bird blinds.	N	HP			$20,000.00
Install boardwalk overlook.	N	PK			$150,000.00
Add a pedestrian bridge across the river.	N	PK			$225,000.00
Establish a self-serve kayak rental stand.	N	PK		$50,000.00
Add a boat launch.	N	PK	$125,000.00
Add an ADA-accessible kayak launch.	N	PK	$60,000.00
Add pit toilets near the boat launch.	N	PK	$35,000.00
Add a 10' wide path around Locher Lake.	N	TR	$1,120,000.00
Add a single-track companion trail around lake	N	TR	$80,000.00

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Create walking trails to the south of the lake.	N	TR	$124,000.00
Create an additional access drive on the southwest side of the property off HWY 136.	N	PK		$150,000.00
Evaluate and study alternative routes, future trail connection to Cascade.	N	TR	$25,000.00

Massey Marina			$292,330.58	$62,000.00	$264,000.00	$618,330.58
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	$102,000.00
Conduct trail feasibility study to link Massey Marina to Mines of Spain.	N	TR	$25,000.00				Conduct a study with State of Iowa to create a trail connection to Mines of Spain.
Install more inland trails at bottomland hardwood forest.	N	TR		$62,000.00
Campground improvements.	D	PK	$155,000.00				Paving, upgrade electrical service, fix water lines, add tent platforms, reconfigure the dump station.
New parking lot and boat ramp.	D	PK			$264,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Woodland restoration.	D	HP	$10,330.58				At the bottomland hardwood site.

McCarthy Wildlife Area			$25,000.00	$160,000.00	-	$185,000.00
Wetland design & permitting.	N	WQ	$25,000.00
Wetland development.	N	WQ		$160,000.00

Miller McGrath Wildlife Area			$925,000.00	$133,200.00	-	$1,058,200.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Develop trails throughout the park.	N	TR		$83,200.00
Evaluate feasibility for more cabins.	N	PK	$10,000.00
Evaluate trail connections to Heritage Trail.	N	TR	$10,000.00
Evaluate feasibility of adding public water supply.	N	PK	$5,000.00
Add additional cabins.	N	PK	$900,000.00
Forest restoration.	D	HP		$20,000.00
Prairie restoration.	D	HP		$30,000.00

Mud Lake Park			-	$699,000.00	-	$699,000.00
Replace the old tower.	D	PK		$325,000.00
Convert the former park ranger house into a rentable cabin.	D	PK		$300,000.00
Dredge at fishing access pier to remove sediment.	D	WQ		$50,000.00
Add a parking lot at playground.	N	PK		$24,000.00

New Wine Park			$1,332,000.00	$2,580,000.00	-	$3,912,000.00
Evaluate a trail connection into Dyersville and Field of Dreams.	N	TR	$100,000.00				Planning only.
Install a bridge.	N	PK		$225,000.00

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Develop water trails and hiking trailhead.	N	TR	$10,000.00
Install a river crossing.	N	TR		$25,000.00
Replace turf with native ground cover.	N	HP	$2,000.00
Replace the shelter.	D	PK	$80,000.00
Install cabins.	N	PK		$2,250,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Improve the shower house.	D	PK	$600,000.00
Forest restoration.	D	HP		$80,000.00
Stream restoration.	D	WQ	$540,000.00

Pohlman Prairie Preserve			$15,000.00			$15,000.00
Improve trail access into prairie.	N	TR	$15,000.00				Widen or improve the surface of the
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.

Proving Grounds			$110,000.00	$75,000.00	$200,000.00	$385,000.00
Add public water supply.	N	PK			$200,000.00
Create a dog park.	N	PK	$50,000.00
Create gathering areas on the hilltops.	N	PK	$60,000.00
Evaluate the feasibility of rock climbing.	N	PK
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$75,000.00

Ringneck Ridge Wildlife Area				$60,000.00		$60,000.00
Ecological restoration.	D	HP		$60,000.00

Swiss Valley Park/Campgrounds			$2,450,000.00	$1,050,000.00	$1,300,000.00	$4,800,000.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Add a 10' wide recreation trail connecting the park, nature preserve, and nature center.	N	TR			$960,000.00
Add a natural playscape.	N	PK	$350,000.00
Add benches.	N	PK			$15,000.00
Update the shower house.	D	PK	$1,200,000.00
Add landscape and buffering around campground.	N	HP		$50,000.00
Campground expansion.	N	PK	$800,000.00
Reconfigure the dump station.	D	PK	$100,000.00				Relocate to accommodate expansion and improved turning radius.

Install an underpass for connecting recreation trail.	N	TR		$1,000,000.00
Replace / Install pedestrian bridge.	N	PK			$325,000.00

Swiss Valley Nature Center			$1,701,600.00	$474,000.00		$2,175,600.00
Land acquisition - to be determined.	L	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.

Create a small parking lot and additional access point to the west.	N	PK		$74,000.00
Parking lot maintenance/improvements.	D	PK	$201,600.00

Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	Prioritization (in years)				Remarks
Project Description	Project Type	Improvement Category	0-5	6-10	11+	Total Cost	Remarks
Nature center deferred maintenance.	D	PK	$1,500,000.00				Siding, roof, and windows, restrooms
Nature center exhibit refresh.	D	PK		$400,000.00			Interpretive exhibit refresh.

Swiss Valley Nature Preserve			$450,000.00	$735,000.00		$1,185,000.00
Streambank restoration.	D	HP		$550,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Prairie restoration. Forest restoration.	D D	HP HP		$60,000.00 $100,000.00
Create outdoor learning lab.	N	PK		$25,000.00
Replace pedestrian bridges in the preserve.	D	TR	$450,000.00

Whitewater Canyon			$122,000.00	$320,000.00		$442,000.00
Prairie restoration.	D	HP		$60,000.00
Woodland restoration.	D	HP		$240,000.00			Remove invasive species.
Improve the road and entry signage.	D	PK		$20,000.00
Add rock climbing access.	N	PK
Land acquisition - to be determined.	N	LP					To be determined if adjacent landowner is willing to sell.
Perform trail maintenance.	D	TR	$60,000.00				Repair / reroute trails in erodible areas.
Fix the drainage at the entry road to prevent washing out.	D	WQ	$50,000.00
Add switchbacks to the trail system to overlook (reduce trail maintenance, erosion).	D	TR	$12,000.00

County Wide Improvements (Not Park Specific)			$6,000,000.00	$9,000,000.00	$3,000,000.00	$18,000,000.00
ATV park development & land acquisition.	N	PK		$3,000,000.00			Repurpose degraded lands (avoid sensitive areas).
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP	$3,000,000.00
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP		$3,000,000.00
Park & preserve land acquisition.	L	LP			$3,000,000.00
Maintenance facility relocation.	D	PK	$3,000,000.00
Cabins.	N	PK		$3,000,000.00

The following tables and graphs provide greater clarity into how the improvements are classified, where the budget is allocated, and how they impact each facility.

The pie chart displays the financial distribution with three segments. The 0-5 years segment is in blue and represents $7.7 million, making up 13% of the total. The 6-10 years segment is in green, showing $24.5 million, which is 42% of the total. The 11+ years segment is in orange, accounting for $25.7 million, representing 45% of the total. Each segment is labeled with its corresponding dollar amount and percentage, illustrating the financial allocation clearly.

Improvements were budgeted/allocated in five-year blocks, providing clarity to those necessary in the short-, medium-, and long-term.

This pie chart illustrates the distribution of financial amounts across various categories. The largest segment represents $23.9 million (41%), followed by $18.0 million (31%), $6.6 million (11%), and smaller amounts represented in various colors: $2.4 million (4%), $2.1 million (4%), $2.6 million (5%), and $2.3 million (4%). Each segment is labeled with the amount and percentage to demonstrate relative sizes clearly.

Figure 6: Investment by Park/Facility Type

Parks with more amenities and infrastructure (also those that typically receive the most visits) often require more maintenance and investment.

Figure 5: Investment Prioritization

Regional Trail Special Use Park/Facility Nature Preserve Marina Wildlife Area Recreation Park County Wide

The pie chart illustrates the distribution of a budget with three segments: Deferred Maintenance/Code Compliance Improvements (16%, $9.0 M), New Improvement (42%, $24.3 M), and Park & Preserve Land Acquisition (42%, $24.5 M). Color coding indicates each category, with a legend for clarity.

Maintaining the current assets and investing in new amenities are proposed to be nearly equal.

The pie chart illustrates the funding distribution for several environmental initiatives. The largest segment represents Trail Improvements at $29.7 million (51%). Habitat Preservation & Restoration accounts for $11.7 million (20%). Land Protection and Acquisition of Sensitive Natural Areas, including hunting and fishing land access, is allocated $9.0 million (16%). Water Quality Enhancements and Floodplain Management receive $4.4 million (8%), while Park Infrastructure Enhancements are allocated $3.1 million (5%). Each segment is color-coded and includes dollar amounts alongside percentage figures.

Given the age of many parks, along with the condition and amenity location, investing in infrastructure to support use is the largest category.

FIGURE 7: INVESTMENT BY PROJECT TYPE.

FIGURE 8: INVESTMENT BY IMPROVEMENT CATEGORY.

The bar chart presents funding allocations in millions of dollars for different recreational areas and improvements. The tallest bar indicates 'County Wide Improvements' at $180M, followed by 'Locher Recreation Area' at $7.4M, and 'Heritage Trail' at $6.6M. Other funding amounts for parks and areas vary, with lower values represented across various parks, nature preserves, and wildlife areas. The chart visualizes disparities in funding, showing prominent projects against the smaller allocations.

Investments across the county, followed by Locher Recreation Area (a new park) and the Heritage Trail (including trailheads and Heritage Pond/Campground), have been allocated the largest portion of the budget.

Figure 9: Investment by Park.

APPENDIX

Visitation Analysis
Public Input Survey Results
Open House Boards
Maintenance Building Existing Conditions

VISITATION ANALYSIS

VISITATION ANALYSIS PROCESS

Step 1:
RDG uses GIS software to geofence the park locations and sends them as shapefiles to Placer.ai.

Step 2: Placer.ai returns visitation data on the geofenced park locations.

Step 3:
RDG reviewed and projected the visitation data.

Step 4:
High-level conclusions were distilled from the data for consideration in park improvement planning.

WHAT IS PLACER.AI?

Placer.ai
An AI-powered location analytics platform that uses anonymized mobile location data
Apps in partnership with Placer.ai pick up users' locations and send them to nearby cell towers
Helps businesses and entities make informed decisions based on things like visitation trends and visitor demographics
Example: Target could use Placer.ai to determine which stores need more marketing and investment or which areas are prime locations for new store openings.

The image features a blurred silhouette of a person holding a smartphone, indicating interaction with technology. To the left, there is a logo for Placer.ai, which includes an owl symbol, and to the right, a radio tower icon with signal waves emanating from it. The overall composition suggests a theme of technology and connectivity.

VISITOR VS. VISITATION: HOW ARE THEY DEFINED?

RDG used Placer.ai to analyze total
visitation to Dubuque County Parks.

Visitor:

The number of people who travel to a destination.
1 visitor

Total Visitation (over 10 minutes):

The number of times people travel to a destination. Visits that lasted over 10 minutes were counted.
3 visits

Example: A single visitor who goes to a park 3 times made 3 visits - 3 is the total visitation.

The top section shows a single visitor represented by an icon with three trees in a landscaped area, indicating minimal impact or growth. The bottom half depicts three visits, represented similarly but with more trees and denser vegetation, suggesting greater ecological influence. The visual conveys a comparison of visitor impact on natural landscapes over time.

All Parks, Yearly Visitation

Since 2019, park usage has increased 50%.

$79K

66%

Household Median Income
of visitors come from family households

31.9%

of visitors have a Bachelor's degree or higher

Total Park System Visitation

The bar chart displays total visitation numbers across seven years, with each bar representing a specific year's visitation. The years 2019 to 2025 are labeled along the x-axis. The y-axis indicates total visitation numbers ranging from 0 to 500,000. Each bar is color-coded in shades of yellow, showing fluctuations in visitation, and a dotted trend line indicates a general upward trend over the years.

2025 PARK VISITATION RANKINGS

The bar chart presents visitor counts for multiple parks and recreation areas, with Mud Lake Park having the highest at 114,245 visits, followed by Heritage Trail and Swisher Valley Park. Each bar represents a different location, and the lengths of the bars indicate the number of visitors.

TOP 9 VISITED PARKS YEAR-OVER-YEAR

Notable Observations:
- Swiss Valley Nature Preserve
visitation has decreased in recent years

The bar chart illustrates the visitation trends of the top 9 parks from 2023 to 2025. Each bar corresponds to a park and displays the number of visitors, with categories for year-on-year changes. The chart is color-coded to indicate varying levels of visitation and trends over time. A legend provides clarity on what the colors represent.

2023 2024 2025

VISITS PER ACRE

Park Visits Per Acre

Visits per acre provides insight into park use intensity, related to size and potentially amenity demand.

The chart illustrates the number of visitors to different parks and recreational areas, with Balliot Overlook having the highest at 36,940. Other notable parks include Mud Lake Park with 3,764 visitors and Heritage Pond and Parking with 2,724 visitors. The remaining bars show decreasing visitor counts across other parks, such as Mason Park and Swiss Valley Park, down to marginal visitors at the least frequented locations.

YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGE PARK VISITATION

Parks with campgrounds and access to the Mississippi River are showing increasing usage.

2024-2025 Park Visitation Trends

The chart visualizes the visitation trends for various parks in 2024-2025, indicating percentage changes from previous data. Each bar represents a park with positive or negative visitation trends, showing fluctuations in popularity. Values range from a significant drop of -45% for one park to increases as high as 35% for another, reflecting diverse visitor patterns across different locations.

YEAR-OVER-YEAR CHANGE PARK VISITATION

Visit duration over the past couple of years has remained relatively steady.

2024-2025 Average Visit Duration

The bar chart shows time spent in minutes at different parks and wildlife areas. Each bar represents a specific location with values ranging from approximately 17 minutes to a peak of 487 minutes. The bars are color-coded in shades of orange and yellow, indicating different time categories. Locations include Balloon Checkout, Bankton Park, Fins Lake Park, Golf Fossil Site, and others, with a clear visual comparison of the time spent at each site.

2024 2025

TRADE AREA MAP

Trade Area:

A Trade Area refers to the geographic region or zone from which properties or businesses draw their visitors.

Most visitors traveled to Dubuque County Parks from within Dubuque County.

The map displays a trade area outlined in a shaded brown color and markers indicating the locations of parks. A dashed circle represents a 50-mile radius from a central point. The map provides an overview of spatial relationships between parks and the trade area, helping users understand their proximity and distribution.

Local vs. Non-Local Visits

Evaluating local versus non-local visits shows that parks with campgrounds and marinas have the greatest demand from non-local users.

2025 Local vs. Non-Local Park Visits

The chart illustrates different parks with their names listed on the y-axis and corresponding numeric values on the x-axis. Each park has a bar indicating its percentage, along with a contrasting color highlighting specific data points. The data includes parks like New Wine Park with 28.8%, Heritage Pond and Parking with 6.0%, and others with varying percentages. The chart effectively shows the distribution of park usage or characteristics across these locations.

Local Visits Non-Local Visits

CONCLUSION & TAKEAWAYS

The Dubuque County Park System has seen a steady rise in usage over the past 6 years with visitation increasing over 50%!
Most park users come from Dubuque County and specifically Dubuque.
Parks that contain campgrounds and provide waterfront access tended to have higher visitation overall along with more non-local visitation.
Most non-overnight visits last about an hour.

PUBLIC INPUT SURVEY RESULTS

Overview

586 survey respondents in 2024
~170% increase from 2020
219 survey respondents in 2020
86% of respondents rated the quality of Dubuque County parks "Excellent" or "Good"

Total Park System Visitation

1a. How would you rate the overall quality of Dubuque County parks (that you have visited)?

The pie chart illustrates the distribution of performance ratings: 66% is classified as Excellent (green), 20% as Good (light green), 13% as Fair (yellow), and 1% as Poor (red). The chart visually communicates the majority of ratings as Excellent, with a smaller portion for the other categories.

[p102.8.1] Percentages on the following graphs represent those who answered the survey question; it omits those who skipped the question from the total count.

Visitation Comparison 2020 vs. 2026

Percentage of respondents who visit daily and weekly has remained the same (38% vs. 38%).
There was a slightly lower percentage of 2026 respondents who visit monthly (43% vs. 55%).
There was an increase in respondents who visit a few times a year (18% vs. 5%).

1. How often do you visit Dubuque County's park system?

The bar chart presents data on how often individuals visit county parks. It shows five categories: 'Daily' with a low count of 31 visits (5%), 'Weekly' representing the highest count at 190 visits (33%), 'A few times a month' at 178 visits (31%), 'Once a month' with 68 visits (12%), 'A few times a year' at 106 visits (18%), and 'I have not been to a County park' with 9 visits (2%). Each bar's height corresponds to the number of responses in each category.

The bar chart presents data on how frequently activities are engaged in, with categories ranging from daily to none. Each bar is labeled with the corresponding percentage and number of respondents. The highest activity frequency is '1-2 days a month' at 29% (55), followed by '3-4 days a month' at 26% (49). Other categories include '3-4 days a week' with 23% (44), '1-2 days a week' at 11% (22), 'daily' at 4% (8), '1-2 days a year' at 5% (10), and 'none' at 2% (4).

2026

2020

Barriers to Visitation

Top factors for those who visit parks once per month or less are using other outdoor spaces, lack of desired features, lack of awareness, and 'other' reasons.
Park maintenance and parking availability were not top barriers to visitation.
Distance to parks, outdated facilities, lack of programs, and restrooms were medium barriers to visitation.

BARRIERS TO VISITATION

Other factors that prevent people from visiting are:
Time constraints
Distance/location of parks
Awareness & information gaps
Lack of specific amenities/activities (climbing, paved trails)

"When hunting is allowed within the park system, it doesn't feel like a safe place to 'get out in nature'. I don't know when the different types of hunting seasons begin and end. That information isn't readily posted."

"Would use Heritage often if it was paved."

"I am 80 years old... I am reluctant to drive 25 miles to Mines of Spain or another venue unless I have a carful of people."

"Afraid to get lost - would love to see more signage."

"I work a lot of hours so I don't get a lot of time to visit as often as I would like."

DEMOGRAPHICS COMPARISON 2020 VS. 2026

Most survey takers in 2026 and 2020 live in Dubuque County, meaning that audience is still primarily local

9. What is your home zip code?

The chart displays two groups of vertical bar graphs representing values for different categories labeled from 52001 to 52068 across two years, 2026 and 2020. Each bar's height corresponds to the quantitative data, with 2026 showing higher values compared to 2020. The bars are colored red, and the graph visually emphasizes the differences in data for the individual categories between the two years.

TRADE AREA MAP

Trade Area:

A Trade Area refers to the geographic region or zone from which properties or businesses draw their visitors.

Most visitors traveled to Dubuque County Parks from within Dubuque County.

The map illustrates a trade area outlined in brown with parks marked as orange points scattered throughout the region. A dashed line indicates a 50-mile radius from the central point, represented by a white circle. The map provides spatial context for understanding the distribution of parks in relation to the trade area, enhancing the visibility of nearby recreational areas.

Demographics Comparison 2020 vs. 2026

Most survey takers in 2026 and 2020 are ages 35-44.
There was a 14% increase in respondents ages 55-64, and a slight decrease in ages 0-24.

The pie chart displays the projected age distribution for 2026, divided into segments representing different age groups. The largest segment is for ages 35-44, accounting for 27%, followed by 25-34 at 21%, and 45-54 at 20%. The age groups 55-64, 65-74, 18-24, 0-17, and 75 or older account for 16%, 11%, 3%, 1%, and 2% respectively. Each segment is color-coded to visually distinguish the proportions.

10. What is your age?

Demographics

97% of respondents are White, compared to 91.4% of Dubuque County residents.
Survey respondents were mostly representative of Dubuque County's racial makeup.

11. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity?

Demographics

Most respondents earn more than the median household income for Dubuque County ($77,630).
Respondent demographics are not representative of the average Dubuque County resident.

12. Which of the following best describes your total annual household income?

The bar chart illustrates the distribution of respondents across various income brackets. The bar for 'Under $35,000' shows 4%, '35,000 to $59,999' shows 11%, '60,000 to $99,999' shows 31%, and 'More than $100,000' shows 55%. Each bar represents the percentage of total respondents within each specified income range, visually demonstrating the difference in income distribution.

Demographics

13. Your Gender

The bar chart represents gender distribution among respondents, showing 53.7% identifying as female, 43.9% as male, with smaller groups preferring to self-describe (0.2%) or preferring not to answer (2.3%). The vertical axis indicates percentage values ranging from 0% to 60%.

Demographics

389 age responses indicate children 19 and under are present in households, with a majority of these children being 14 and under.

14. Including yourself, which age groups are represented in your household?

The bar chart illustrates the distribution of a population across various age groups. It displays percentages for each age group, indicating that the highest percentage is within the 35-44 age range at 31%, followed by 25-34 at 26%. The distribution decreases for older age categories, with the lowest percentage of 1% for those aged 80 years and older. Each bar is represented in purple with corresponding percentage labels above them.

FACILITY/AMENITY NEEDS

Open lawn spaces and unpaved gravel trails are most fully met, while rock climbing, cabins, and archery facilities are least met

Please indicate how well your needs for each facility/amenity are met on a scale of "Fully Met" to "Not Met", or Select "No Need"

The chart presents data on different recreational features, illustrating the percentage satisfaction regarding how fully or partially accessible these amenities are. Each feature is listed, such as restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails, and more, with corresponding color-coded bars indicating whether needs are fully met, mostly met, partially met, not met, or no need. This visual representation helps understand areas requiring improvement in accessibility.

TOP MOST IMPORTANT FACILITIES/AMENITIES

59% of respondents selected Hiking Trails as the most important amenity to their households
Top choices are for supporting park amenities like restrooms and shelters, while middle choices are primarily active recreation/activities

Which FOUR of the facilities/amenities from the list in Question #2 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household?

The bar chart illustrates the percentage preferences for various outdoor activities and areas, with 'Hiking trails' being the most favored at 59%. Other options include 'Unpaved gravel trails' (36%), 'Restrooms' (35%), 'Playground areas' (22%), and 'Fishing' (19%). Each category is color-coded to indicate preference rank: dark green for 1st choice, medium green for 2nd, light green for 3rd, and gray for 4th. The chart effectively visualizes comparative popularity among options.

Priorities Comparison 2026 vs. 2020

Top three priorities remained the same for both 2026 and 2020 (Trail Improvements, Habitat Preservation, Land Protection/Acquisition).
There has been an increase in 2026 respondents who prioritize environmental protection (Water Quality, Land Protection, and Floodplain Management).
What are your priorities for the future? Please rank the following from 1–7, with 1 being the MOST important and 7 being the LEAST important.

The bar chart displays data for three categories (#1, #2, #3) related to environmental management measures. The categories include 'Trail Improvements/Connections', 'Natural Preservation & Acquisition of Sensitive Natural Areas', 'Water Quality Enhancements', 'Park Infrastructure Enhancements', 'Floodplain Management/ Flood Reduction Measures', and 'Hunting and Fishing Access'. Each category has corresponding bar lengths indicating their values, with #1 represented in a darker red, #2 in a lighter red, and #3 in a pale red. The y-axis indicates values, while the x-axis lists the different measures.

FUNDING SUPPORT

Funding County parks is a good use of my tax dollars

The pie chart displays various categories with their respective percentages. The largest segment, 85.5%, is represented in dark green, followed by a smaller segment of 11.7% in a lighter green. Other segments are minimal, including 1.9%, 0.5%, and 0.5%, which are represented in gray and red. The percentage labels are clearly marked directly on or near each segment, indicating the composition of the whole. This breakdown visually represents the proportional data.

The pie chart displays several segments representing percentage distributions of different categories. The largest segment, colored green, occupies 59.6% of the chart, followed by segments of 22.4% (light green), 9.1% (grey), 6.3% (orange), and 2.6% (red). Each segment's size corresponds to its respective percentage.

I would rather see increased taxes to support parks than see services reduced

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

"If there was more climbing access in Dubuque county I would regularly use the park system. I think it's a beautiful part of the state but as I think is the case with most climbers in the area I know little about where / whether climbing is allowed within the county."

"Hire more staff to give the team the resources they need to do more programming and environmental stewardship. Better publicize events and programming."

"More summer sessions for children. I completely understand small group sizes to ensure safety and engagement. Maybe two sessions a month instead of one?"

"Keep the off leash dog park cleaner... people don't clean up after themselves... And maybe offer another one closer to the west end."

"I would love to see more signage when walking the trails. Every time I go, I feel like if I make a wrong turn, I will get lost."

"More programming for families and children. You do a great job and I love it so much that I want more of it."

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Main takeaways from comments:

Heritage Trail paving is the most divisive topic — strong opinions on both sides; supporters cite tourism, safety, and accessibility while opponents value its use for snowmobiling, fat biking, cross-country skiing, and running on soft surfaces
Rock climbing access is a major unmet need — a large, organized group of respondents advocate for climbing at Whitewater Canyon and other areas
Trail connectivity is a top priority — residents want trail connections between parks, communities, and downtown Dubuque
Facility improvements needed — more restrooms, better signage, updated infrastructure at Swiss Valley and EB Lyons
Dog policy — both sides represented; some want more off-leash areas, others want stronger leash law enforcement
Staffing, programming, and awareness — residents want more family/youth programming, better marketing, and more staff

OPEN HOUSE BOARDS

Dubuque County
Conservation

The map illustrates the city of Dubuque, highlighting recreational areas such as parks and trails with marked pathways. It contains sticky notes that provide feedback on specific locations, suggesting improvements like the addition of indoor swimming or rock climbing facilities and notes on paving trails. The map features numbered sites and uses color coding for comments.

Project Overview

Since 2020, Dubuque County Conservation has completed numerous projects—ranging from improving fishing access and enhancing campgrounds to restoring streams and expanding natural areas. These efforts have been guided by the Comprehensive Parks, Trails, and Open Spaces Plan. As the County Conservation Board looks ahead to the next five years, your feedback on the priorities, improvements, and actions is desired.
Public engagement is an important part of any community. That's why we need to hear from you!

Public engagement is an important part of any community.
That's why we need to hear from you!

Vision

A network of high quality parks,
habitats, trails, and waters
supported by communities
passionate about nature.

Mission

To engage the community's stewardship and enjoyment of its natural resources.

Identifying interactive opportunities for interaction.
Think storybook trails, self stations, digital companion experiences.

What Is Placer.ai?

An AI-powered location analytics platform that utilizes location data. It helps businesses and entities make decisions based on things like visitation trends and visitor demographics.

Since 2019, park system usage has increased 50%.

The bar chart displays total park system visitation from the years 2019 to 2025, with the following figures: 301,471 in 2019, 467,423 in 2020, 443,177 in 2021, 389,388 in 2022, 404,033 in 2023, and 451,958 in 2025. Handwritten notes on sticky notes provide suggestions for improving accessibility, such as adding resources and trails. This context helps understand the chart's implications and intentions.

The map displays a layout featuring an existing memorial and a signalized crossing at Beltline Rd and 11th St SE. Nearby, there are indications of bathrooms, a water station, and trees, with notations highlighting these amenities as priorities based on community voting.

The map displays an aerial view of Holy Cross Rd, surrounded by agricultural fields and some buildings. The road extends through a rural area, with forested regions adjacent to the east and notable landmarks like a blue roof structure visible in the lower section of the image. This layout provides insight into the spatial relationships in the vicinity of Holy Cross Rd.

The map provides a layout of a camping area with a river winding through it. It marks specific locations including Primitive Camping, the Council Ring, and Stone Crossing, along with the Pave Parking Lot. The spatial relationships between these areas are illustrated distinctly, helping users navigate the campsite effectively.

A colorful diagram showing five circles in different colors with the label 'Trees.'

The map displays the Dyersville area, highlighting several parks (such as Northside Park and Prairie Restoration Exhibit) and trails with routes marked. Colorful sticky notes indicate additional information and instructions related to certain locations, including reminders and tasks related to the trails and parks. Spatial relationships are illustrated through lines connecting the parks and areas of interest, providing a visual guide to access within the region.

What would you like to see at this trailhead?

What would you like to see at this access point?

What would you like to see at this trailhead?

Field of Dreams access

Heritage Trail - Overall Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes
"Water along trail"	0
"Clean up remnant prairies"	1
Pave	30
Do Not Pave	30
Combination	13
"Remove snowmobile from the trail"	0 Multi Use Trail
Key Takeaways Shared Road
Paving the trail is the most divisive system-wide issue - Pave and Do Not Pave each received 30 votes, showing the community is equally split, with Combination receiving 13 votes as a compromise.

The map details the Heritage Trail area with various features such as camping spots, restrooms, parking, and trails. It includes a section for user comments and voting results on desired improvements, highlighting community feedback. Visual markers denote locations of interest, and there's a sticky note indicating a request for sidewalks and outdoor spaces. The layout indicates relationships among different facilities and paths.

The map illustrates various recreational areas, including parks, trails, and golf courses, marked with colored dots and sticky notes highlighting points of interest. Key routes and landmarks such as E. Twin Springs, F. Budd Road, and the 1872 Bridge are labeled. The legend features icons indicating amenities like parking and trails, providing spatial relationships between these areas.

G. Durango Trailhead

F. Budd Road Trailhead

E. Twin Springs Trailhead

The image features an aerial view of an area with Burtons Furnace Rd clearly labeled. Additional annotations include sticky note comments regarding amenities such as restrooms and trail conditions. The comments indicate a total of 5 votes for adding restrooms and water, along with other suggestions for trail improvements. The spatial layout displays the relationship of the roads and nearby water features.

What would you like to see at this trailhead?

The image features a blue square indicating the location of restrooms and water, marked with red circles denoting their positions. There are yellow circles with handwritten notes stating 'Fix Bridges' and 'Have a Portable' near the blue square, suggesting additional information or tasks related to those areas.

What would you like to see at this trailhead?

The image presents a plan view of an outdoor area featuring various sections: at the top is a sunken outdoor classroom, next to a shaded turf area, and further down includes the 'Driftless Region' interpretive area. Below, there is a ramp leading to the main facilities with designated seating areas and parking. Spatial relationships and key functions of each area are visually represented.

The map outlines a neighborhood along a curved road with various properties, indicated by numbered labels (1180, 1190, 1200). It includes a pink sticky note that reads 'Sidewalk connection to Breidbaut' and colored circles that may represent points of interest or priority. The layout displays how properties relate spatially to the road and surrounding areas.

The map depicts a geographic layout featuring outlined properties and roads. It includes labeled buildings such as 'Bredtbach's Country Dining,' and other house numbers like '1200' and '1210.' The orientation and spatial relationships among the properties and streets are clearly marked, aiding the user in navigating the area.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes2
"Sidewalk connection to Breitbach's"	4	Create interpretive exhibit(s) about the Driftless region	6
"Outdoor classroom not needed it's on the side of the road. What groups would go here for a lesson?"	3	Improve ADA-compliant accessibility, improve parking	2
"Do a classroom at the second pullover spot for the buses"	0
"Shade would be nice"	1
Key Takeaways

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Completed railing maintenance and sidewalk leveling

Potential Projects

Illustration showing a yellow circle with an arrow pointing towards a blue circle.

Improve outdoor classroom/seating and add shade structures

Red circle, likely indicating a point of interest or highlight.

Improve ADA-compliant accessibility, improve parking

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

……

PLAN VIEW

Interpretive exhibits are the top priority - Creating exhibits about the Driftless region received 6 votes, the highest of any project
Sidewalk connectivity and accessibility are desired - Sidewalk connection to Breitbach's received 4 votes and ADA improvements received 2 votes

Currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map illustrates a designated park area featuring trails, proposed new bridge locations, camping areas, and other amenities. Comments appear on sticky notes indicating areas of interest, modifications, or suggestions, such as adding a new bridge. The boundaries, key landmarks, and spatial layout of the park are clearly marked, including paths for accessibility, primitive camping spots, and restoration areas.

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Potential

Trails are currently being constructed
Installed a group campfire at the north of the park
Raised outlet structure to improve pond

Add a new bridge
Improve campground, add a group camping area, and consider adding cabins
Add ADA-compliant walking route to provide access to fishing for all people
Vegetation management in flood plain, meadow and woodland
Stream and prairie restoration
No. 1.

The image features two circles: one blue and one yellow. They overlap partially, forming a green area in the intersection, illustrating color mixing visually.

Add interpretive displays about Karst Depressions
Acquire surrounding properties to protect drinking water and preserve sensitive ecological areas, including Karst Depressions

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Bridge across creek so that you don't have to walk along the road"	0	Add a new bridge	3
"Yes!" [primitive group camping]	2	Vegetation management in flood plain, meadow and woodland	2
"Shower House"	2	Stream and prairie restoration	2
"No mtn bike trails - protect the algific talus slope from traffic"	2	Add interpretive displays about Karst Depressions	1
"I'm a mountain biker and agree no trails in this area"	0	Acquire surrounding properties to protect drinking water and preserve sensitive ecological areas, including Karst Depressions	2
"Mountain bike trails?"	2	Improve campground, add a group camping area, and consider adding cabins	1
		Primitive group camping	2
		Proposed cabins	1
		Paved accessible loop	1
		Improved stream access	1
Key Takeaways
Bridge and vegetation management are top priorities – Both received 3 and 2 votes respectively
Protection of sensitive ecological areas is valued – Acquiring surrounding properties to protect Karst Depressions received 2 votes
Mountain biking is controversial – Two sticky notes oppose mountain bike trails while one supports them, suggesting a divided community

Bankston Park

Represents amenities that were proposed in 2020.

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Remove trash & junk"	5	Repair the historic bridge for pedestrian access	3
"Improve kayak launch area"	2	Install a bridge for pedestrians and staff UTV access	1
"More wildlife support - bird & bat houses"	1	Develop and maintain soft trail system	2
"Pit toilet & small shelter"	2	Improve parking, add a kayak launch site	3
"Camping"	1
"Some benches or picnic tables along the trails would be helpful. When hiking w/ kids we need places to stop for breaks."	0
Key Takeaways
Trail development and kayak access are top priorities – Improve parking/kayak launch received 3 votes and develop soft trail system received 2 votes.
Trash removal is a concern – Remove trash & junk received 5 votes, the highest of any sticky note.
Other amenities that support recreation area desired here

The map displays a park layout with contour lines indicating elevation changes. Key features include designated camping areas, proposed soft trail systems, and various restoration zones labeled such as Payne, Woodland, and Prairie Restoration. The pink sticky note labeled 'Camping' marks a specific campsite location. Symbols in black represent existing amenities, while symbols in white indicate proposed amenities from 2020. The layout illustrates spatial relationships among the features and areas designed for visitors.

Potential Projects

What would you like to see at this park? Leave your comments below:

Repair the historic bridge for pedestrian access

Bowstring Wildlife Area

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

——

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"Blacktop the gravel loop for kids' bikes"	2	Create a water trail	2
"More native plantings and wetland management"	3
"Kayak launch"	8
"Real bathrooms"	1
"Blacktop loop for bikes"	1
Key Takeaways
Kayak launch is overwhelmingly the top priority – received 8 votes on sticky note, the highest of any comment at this park
Native plantings and wetland management are highly valued – received 3 votes, suggesting strong interest in ecological improvements

This map outlines the park's layout, highlighting the park boundaries with a yellow dashed line and showing existing amenities marked with black symbols. Proposed amenities from 2020 are indicated with white symbols. Key takeaways about user preferences are noted in a table on the top left. The layout emphasizes the topographic contours of the park and key routes, helping users navigate and understand the spatial arrangement of the landscape.

Potential Projects

What Would You Like to See at This Park?
Leave Your Comments Below:

Upgrade electric lines to 50A

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

1

The map illustrates a recreational area with various features such as parking lots, boat access points, proposed enhancements, existing amenities, and pathways. Key areas include the Gathering Space, improvements for beach users, and a Wetland Restoration area. Symbols indicate both current facilities and suggestions for future developments, providing context for spatial relationships within the site. The surrounding landscape includes water bodies and wooded areas, illustrating the natural setting.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"New Volleyball net"	3	Improve trail system while keeping it primitive	4
"Remove Japanese hops from completely taking over"	3	Improve parking and beach access, and re-pave the road to the Landing	1
"Large bat houses for the species of concern"	1	Restore landscape for rough grouse and other species	1
"Regular cleaning of the beach"	1	Consider adding cabins that look out over the Mississippi	3
		Acquire land to the west to protect sensitive archaeological sites	3
		Wetland Restoration	1
		Stepping Stone Crossing	1
Key Takeaways
Cabin development and land acquisition are top priorities - Consider adding cabins received 3 votes and Acquire land to protect archaeological sites received 3 votes
Ecological restoration is a priority - Removing invasive species and restoring landscape for rough grouse both received votes
Trail improvements are highly desired - Improving the trail system received 4 votes GA

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Bridge has been installed and lit
Electric lines have been updated

Potential Projects

Improve trail system while keeping it primitive
Improve parking and beach access, and re-pave the road to the Landing
Restore landscape for rough grouse and other species
Acquire land to the west to protect sensitive archaeological sites
Consider adding cabins that look out over the Mississippi

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Finley's Landing

Amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

This map displays the layout of a park, including labeled trails such as Heritage Trail, the Park Boundary outlined in yellow, parking areas marked with a 'P', and the Little Maquoketa River forming part of the landscape. Symbols indicate existing amenities in black and proposed amenities in white, providing a visual reference for park features and accessibility routes.

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"Ride/Hike in - Camp Spot"	2	Improve stream access for fishing	4
"Water please"	3	Expanding permanent camping facilities	1
"Didn't know this park was so big!"	1
"Access to entire property - trails?"	5
"Hiking trails"	1
Key Takeaways
Stream access for fishing is the top priority - Received 4 votes, the highest of any project
Trail access to entire property is highly desired - Access to entire property - trails! received 5 votes, the highest sticky note
Water availability is a concern - Water please received 3 votes, suggesting lack of water access at the park

Potential Projects

Remove the old pavilion
Add a council ring
Pave the parking lot

A vertical arrangement of a green and red circular traffic signal indicator.

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map illustrates a recreational area featuring Heritage Pond at the center, with paths for walking and biking. Key landmarks include the existing accessible fishing pier and the proposed rental pavilion for paddle boards, bikes, and kayaks. Parking areas are marked, along with a park boundary and labels for various features and planned updates. Additionally, annotations in colored sticky notes provide comments and suggestions regarding the area’s development.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Rock climbing"	4	Install more fixed parking	2
"Update/Develop Nature Play Area!"	1	Install a playground	1
"Bike Rentals: Yes / Boat Rentals: No"	1	Screen the campground from the pond to create more distinct areas	1
"Trees to block some of the heavy noise"	3	Pavilion offering bike, kayak and paddleboard rentals	3
"Restock fish more often, for fishing"	1	Acquire adjacent brownfield	2
"Bike rentals connect w/ city; more interactive activities"	1	Proposed rental pavilion: Stand-up paddle boards, bikes and kayaks	2
"Needs more trees throughout"	2	Native Plantings to screen RV campground from trail and pond	1
"More trees, fix 'waterfall'"	0	Create/enhance interpretive signage about fish varieties and fishing in the area	1
"Mud Lake or a stream may be better for kayak rental"	0
"Kayak Lessons"	0
"Kayak Rental"	1
Key Takeaways
Rental amenities are a top priority - Pavilion offering bike, kayak and paddleboard rentals received 3 votes consistently across both map and project list
Tree planting and noise buffering is a key concern - Trees to block noise received 3 votes and multiple comments mentioned adding more trees
Rock climbing interest is noted - Received 4 votes suggesting community interest in adding climbing amenities
Community wants separation between campground and pond - Both sticky notes and potential projects reference screening the RV campground

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Potential Projects

Kayak
Lessons

Repair the south side of the pond bank
Install a playground

• Install a playground

• Add a maintenance facility
⚫️ 🔍 📞 📊 📊 📊 📊 📉 📉

Create/enhance interpretive signage about fish varieties and fishing in the area
Pavilion offering bike, kayak and paddleboard rentals

In-stream restoration
Acquire adjacent brownfield

A bright yellow highlighter marker with a chisel tip design.

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities proposed or planned.

The map depicts the layout of a park with highlighted boundaries, trails for pedestrians and cyclists, and designated maintenance areas, particularly showing a secured boundary around a power facility. The visual layout indicates various routes and their relationships to the park's features, providing valuable spatial context for navigation within the area.

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Added a restroom

The map legend illustrates three different colored circles: a blue circle signifies bike trails, a red circle denotes hiking trails, and green circles represent other trail types. Additionally, a blue rectangular shape is used, possibly addressing trail types or directions. The legend aids in understanding the map's symbols and their meanings.

Potential Projects

Add more mountain bike trails

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"This is one of my favorite parks, let's get more property from ITC and add more trails!"	3	Add more mountain bike trails	5
"Wildlife support such as bird and bat houses"	3
"Create open grass space – this is what prevents our youth MTN Bike team from practicing here"	0
"Overflow parking area; more access; green/pavilions for other use"	0
Key Takeaways
Mountain biking is the clear top priority – Adding more mountain bike trails received 5 votes, the only potential project listed
Wildlife habitat support is valued – Bird and bat houses received 3 votes
Open grass space is desired – Community notes lack of open space prevents youth mountain bike team from practicing

Interstate Power Preserve

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

Remove invasives	1	Install a bird blind or other bird observation areas	4
Acquire land on the other side of the trail and protect from boats	0
Lights from John Deere to turn off; impacts migration	4
As one of the only walk-in hunting (duck) spots in DBQ Co - Can we pump water into the NE end of the marsh on dry years? Would open 1-2 more for people	1
No more duck decoys	0
Add bathroom	0
If this [bird blind] becomes a reality - need to be cautious on placement as to not impact any of the best hunting spots at the property	1
Thanks for the new Kayak launch!	0
Key Takeaways
Bird observation is the top priority - Installing a bird blind received 4 votes, the highest of any project
Lights from John Deere impacting migration is a top concern - Received 4 votes, the highest of any sticky note
Hunting access is valued - Comments reference importance of maintaining walk-in duck hunting spots

This map illustrates the layout of the area surrounding the John Deere Factory, with distinct boundaries, paths, and various amenities. Symbols in black indicate the amenities that are currently available, while those in white reflect proposed amenities from 2020. Key landmarks are labeled, including the 'Park Boundary' and 'Recreade Rd.' The visual spatial relationships conveyed by the map allow for navigation and understanding of the area's features.

Potential Projects

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Install a bird blind or other bird observation areas

John Deere Marsh

2

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Remove woody vegetation from mounds. Establish native prairie on mounds."	4	Perform trail maintenance	1
"New signs & education about the cultural significance. Wetland protection. Remove fence."	6
"Clean up mounds area. Remove/replace/repair fencing."	2
"Connect bike trail to Heritage Trail."	1
"Remove fence."	2
"Stream access."	0
"Connect to trail."	0
"Repair fence."	0
Key Takeaways
Cultural significance and education is the top priority – New signs & education about cultural significance received 6 votes, the highest of any comment.
Vegetation management and ecological restoration is highly valued – Removing woody vegetation and establishing native prairie received 4 votes.
Fencing is a major concern – Multiple sticky notes reference removing, repairing, or replacing fencing.

The map depicts a park layout with a outlined 'Park Boundary', trails such as 'Connect bike trail to Heritage Trail', and amenities indicated with symbols. Annotations detail maintenance tasks like 'Remove woody vegetation from mounds' and 'Repair fence'. The park features marked trails, maintenance priorities, and a parking area, providing a comprehensive overview of the site layout and maintenance requirements.

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Potential Projects

Little Maquoketa River Mounds

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map depicts a river area with existing amenities indicated by black symbols and proposed amenities shown by white symbols, including a proposed soft trail labeled on the map. Colorful note stickers are placed around the map with text messages that suggest planning and brainstorming activities. The spatial layout includes the river, nearby land features, and the concept design for future developments in the area.

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Connection to Mines of Spain - yeah!"	2	Pave camping sites	1
"Great idea [connection to Mines of Spain] - let's make this happen!"	7	Update RV electrical service lines to 50 Amps	1
"Prairie rather than turf, more education on wildlife for the recreation-focused people"	0	Reconfigure the dump station	1
"Include more showers"	0	Plant trees	2
		Long term: collaborate with State of Iowa to connect park with trails to Mines of Spain	8
		Add hiking trails toward inland areas of park	2
		Add tent platforms to keep campers in the floodplain dry	1
		Proposed soft trail	1
Key Takeaways
Trail connection to Mines of Spain is overwhelmingly the top priority – Received 8 votes on potential projects list and 7 votes on sticky note
Planting trees is moderately desired – Received 2 votes suggesting community wants more greenery
Campground improvements are moderately desired – Multiple campground upgrades received votes

Potential Projects

Pave camping sites
Update RV electrical service lines to 50 Amps
Reconfigure the dump station
Restore the land along the southeast bank
Plant trees
Install fishing access and trail at southeast bank
Add a new boat ramp

Long term: collaborate with State of Iowa to connect park with trails to Mines of Spain

Improvements to marina

I agree to the declaration

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map illustrates the boundaries of a park, including roads and trails such as Millville Rd, and features like the Little Maquoketa River. It includes labeled cabins and sticky note comments from community members discussing trail access and park development. The map also has a legend indicating symbols used to identify sites and trails, enhancing understanding of the spatial layout.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes
"Our family loves renting this cabin!"	2
"Why did you stop mowing trails to the northern area of the property? Most of the property is difficult to access w/ small kids"	0
"Tent platforms & Stream Access"	0
"Maybe develop some trails"	0
"UTV Trails connect to Graf & Bankston Park"	0
"Buy more land"	4
"Interpretive Signage about the wildlife @ the pond"	0
"Thoughtfully done cabins with little visibility to each other"	0
Key Takeaways
Land acquisition is the top community interest - Buy more land
Trail access and development is desired - Multiple sticky notes reference developing and improving trails throughout the property

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Potential Projects

Installed ADA accessible path to the cabin
Build more cabins
Dig a well for water access
Tear down the house

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"Fishing pier is unusable by about mid/late June due to weeds & lily pads today"	Expand parking lot	1
"Improve canoe/kayak launch area"	Establish a network of hiking trails around Mud Lake and along the Mississippi River dike	13
"Maintain or tear down rickety tower. Add bike/bike trail"
"Yes, access kayak [refer to map]"
"Dig it deeper - not able to use [water, refer to map]"

The map showcases the layout of a recreational area along a river, indicating fishing spots, parking areas, and proposed walking trails. Key features include a marked launch area for canoes/kayaks and hiking trails. A yellow sticky note attached to the map mentions the need for deepening a fishing pier that is currently unusable. The visual legend explains symbols for amenities present at the site, such as picnic areas and restrooms. Spatial relationships between pathways and water access points are also indicated.

What Would You Like To See At This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Potential Projects

A solid blue circle next to the label 'Blue.'

Expand parking lot

The image includes several post-it notes with handwritten notes discussing issues such as fishing conditions and maintenance of a tower. To the right, there is a diagram with colored circles representing different elements like proposed trails and parking areas. The visible connections imply a spatial arrangement of the proposed improvements around Mud Lake and the Mississippi River.

Hiking trails are overwhelmingly the top priority - Establishing a network of hiking trails received 13 votes, by far the highest of any project across all parks.
Water access and usability is a concern - Comments about unusable fishing pier and need for canoe/kayak launch suggest water access needs improvement.

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map illustrates the layout of a park with distinct areas, including the boundary marked in green, existing amenities depicted by black symbols, and proposed developments identified with red circles. Key features are labeled, including improved stream access, prairie restoration areas, and proposed cabin locations. The map's legend describes the meaning of symbols and colors used throughout, enhancing understanding of current and future park plans.

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Installed additional campsites
New road paving is underway
Added an ADA-accessible pavilion

Potential Projects

Shelter needs to be replaced/removed
Evaluate need to fix the shower house
Fix the stream banks at the south side of the park
Add a new bridge at the south side of the park
Evaluate the park as a possible location for cabins
Add access to the stream for water trails
Create as a trailhead for hiking and paddling
Manage flood plain vegetation with riverbank cleanup

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes
"Trail connection into Dyersville"	2	Create as a trailhead for hiking and paddling	3
"Trail to Dyersville"	0	Proposed new bridges	4
"Plant more native ground cover instead of turf"	3	Prairie restoration	2
"Make property larger. Too much corn around"	0	Proposed cabin locations	1
Key Takeaways
Water trail and trailhead development are top priorities - Create as a trailhead for hiking and paddling received 3 votes and proposed new bridges received 4 votes
Trail connectivity to Dyersville is desired - Multiple sticky notes reference connecting to Dyersville via trail
Native ground cover is preferred over turf - Received 3 votes suggesting strong interest in ecological improvements

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Connect to Heritage Pond"	1	Add running water	1
"Add hike/ride in camping!"	1	Create mountain biking trails – connect to Heritage Trail via West John Deere Road instead of current path	2
"Add a pump track"	2	Add a dog park, rock climbing program and disc golf	3
"Climbing/Bouldering!"	0	Establish trail connection with John Deere Marsh and Heritage Pond	2
"Rock Climbing!"	11	Heritage trail connector options	6
"Clearer signs for difficulty levels of bike trails. More medium level at bottom of hill"	0	Proposed Dog Park	5
"No disc golf"	1	Future wetland	3
"Clean up remnant prairies"	1	Prairie	2
"Hard to mobilize at top up in prairies"	0	Prairie restoration	1
"Add camping in parking lot"	0
"Add water"	1
Key Takeaways
Rock climbing and bouldering is the top community interest – Rock Climbing!! received 11 votes, the highest of any sticky note at this park
Dog park is highly desired – Proposed Dog Park received 5 votes, the highest of any map project
Heritage Trail connectivity is valued – Heritage trail connector options received 6 votes

The map depicts the park layout with various symbols indicating proposed projects such as a dog park, prairie restoration, and connector trails. Key routes and notable areas are highlighted, including the Little Maquoketa River Mounds and park boundaries. Color-coded dots represent community interest in various projects, with accompanying labels explaining their significance.

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Installed a park shelter
Expand parking lot

Potential Projects

Add running water
Create mountain biking trails – connect to Heritage Trail via West John Deere Road instead of current path
Add a dog park, rock climbing program and disc golf
Establish trail connection with John Deere Marsh and Heritage Pond

Diagram showing colored circles, including one blue circle situated between two green circles.

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The map illustrates the layout of the park, including campground areas, vegetation restoration sites, and current amenities represented by symbols. It features a stream running through the park and highlights potential projects, such as campground expansion and nature center development. Nearby post-it notes display community suggestions for park improvements, labeled with various feedback topics, appearing in different colors. The layout guides the reader through the spatial relationships of the amenities and proposed developments.

The map displays a park layout featuring the park boundary and symbols indicating existing amenities in black, while proposed amenities from 2020 are shown in white. The map includes color-coded notes that highlight proposed new features, such as a new bridge and boardwalk, along with comments about camping regulations. Symbols suggest hiking trails and other features, enhancing understanding of the area's spatial layout and suggestions for improvement.

The map displays a layout of a park area, highlighting current and proposed amenities. Key features include a service drive, bus drop-off area, and a bird blind. Proposed amenities are marked with color-coded circles: yellow, green, and blue. The map includes paths connecting the park to a nature center, represented by arrows. The key at the bottom explains symbols for existing and proposed amenities.

SWISS VALLEY NATURE PRESERVE, PARK, AND CAMP

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

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..

Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes	Potential Projects	# of Votes

"Rock Climbing"	5	Perform trail maintenance	1
"Improve road and entry signage"	3	Acquire land if feasible	6
"Kestrel boxes accessible to volunteer citizen scientists"	1	Fix the drainage at the entry road to prevent washing out	1
"Outdoor classroom/small stone amphitheater"	0	Evaluate feasibility of rock climbing	2
"Picnic tables yes! Selfie stations no"	4	Add basic amenities: pit latrines, potable water, park shelter(s) for school/group visits	3
"Keep Whitewater Wild/primitive please!"	6	Include a drop from Whitewater Creek Water Trail	3
"More benches"	0	Potential interpretive exhibits	1
"Improve road for winter driving to encourage winter hiking and cross-country skiing"	0	Some restoration of the canyon area	3
"CLIMBING! BOULDERING!"	2	Woodland savanna restoration and trail connection	2
"Rock Climbing"	0	Rock climbing [see map]	8
"Printable map with trails & attractions caves"	0
"Is this area possible to climb @? Topography looks great [see map, SW of park]"	0
Key Takeaways
Acquiring land and rock climbing are the top priorities – Acquire land if feasible received 6 votes and rock climbing on map received 8 votes
Keeping the canyon wild and natural is important – Keep Whitewater Wild/primitive please! received 6 votes
Basic amenities are desired – Add basic amenities received 3 votes suggesting facilities are lacking

This detailed map outlines the park's boundaries, including the Woodland Savanna Restoration area, trails marked for use, and various amenities such as parking areas. It indicates locations for rock climbing, picnic areas, and other potential additions. Key symbols represent existing amenities in black and proposed amenities in white. The layout visually illustrates the spatial relationships between these features across the park's terrain.

Recently Completed Park Improvements

Potential Projects

• Installed a restroom

Image showing colored circles with a label indicating the installation of a restroom.

Perform trail maintenance
Acquire land if feasible
Fix the drainage at the entry road to prevent washing out

• Evaluate feasibility of rock climbing
Add basic amenities: pit latrines, potable water, park shelter(s) for school/group visits

Some restoration of the canyon area
Add a series of Selfie Stations

What Would You Like to See at This Park? Leave Your Comments Below:

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Symbols in black represent amenities that currently exist. Symbols in white represent amenities that were proposed in 2020.

The image depicts a scenic view along a stream with trees lining the banks. Various colored dots (blue, yellow, red, green) are scattered across the lower section, possibly indicating points of interest or locations. A bright pink post-it note has handwritten text indicating 'More good fishing holes access county wide!' This text might be providing additional context or information. The layout includes a clear space for this text and the visual elements assist in understanding fishing access in the area.

The image depicts a vibrant field of flowers under a blue sky. Various colored circles (red, yellow, green, and blue) are scattered across the image. At the top left, there is a green box displaying the number 24. The colorful circles may represent data points or highlights within the floral landscape.

The image features a serene pond framed by lush green vegetation. There are colored circles in blue, green, and yellow positioned along the edge, likely indicating specific points of interest or features relevant to the pond area. The top left corner includes a green box with the number '9' prominently displayed, suggesting it may mark a significant location or label.

The image depicts a serene water body with tall grasses surrounding it. A light blue boat is visible on the water's surface. Various sticky notes of different colors are placed on the right side of the image. One sticky note is purple with handwritten text stating 'All wildlife Habitat,' and there are several round colored sticky notes in green, yellow, and red arranged on the photo. The number '11' is displayed prominently in a green box at the upper left.

The image features a scenic backdrop of a lake surrounded by trees. In the foreground, a blue paper with handwritten text saying 'Inner tubing' is showcased. Various colorful shapes are placed around it, including circles and arrows in different colors. These shapes are likely intended to highlight features or activities related to the location.

The image features a paved trail where individuals are seen walking with a stroller. Colorful circles in red, green, and yellow are affixed to the image. A prominent yellow sticky note contains handwritten text that reads, 'NOT Heritage Trail please,' indicating clarification about the trail's designation. Below, another note highlights 'Paved Trail.' The layout and details assist in understanding the context of the trail and its proper identification.

The image features a lush pond filled with water lilies and a heron in the foreground, with a wooden bridge partially visible in the background. Colorful dots in green, red, yellow, and blue are scattered over the image, alongside the number '9' in a rectangular box. The arrangement of the colored dots and the number suggests a possible game or activity related to the pond's environment.

The image depicts a forest trail with a variety of colored circles placed throughout the scene. The circles are blue, green, yellow, and red. The trail appears to be surrounded by tall trees and grass, suggesting a natural setting. The number '25' is displayed in a green box at the top left corner, possibly indicating a point of interest or location along the trail.

The image depicts a large shelter structure situated on a grassy area. It has a metal frame and is equipped with tables underneath. A paved path leads towards the structure, which is in an open environment with some green grass and scattered flowers. In the top left corner, there are circles colored red, yellow, and blue, with the number '4' contained in a green square.

The image shows an outdoor seating area featuring several wooden Adirondack chairs positioned around a central fire pit, which is made of stone. The seating area is set on a gravel-like surface with concrete pads below each chair. Around the seating area, there are green trees and grassy areas. There is a numbered sign in a green box on the left side of the image, and colored circles at the bottom which may represent some kind of key or legend.

The image depicts a picnic pavilion situated in a grassy park area. The pavilion has a wooden roof supported by four columns and features multiple picnic tables underneath. Two blue circles are placed on the image, indicating specific points of interest. The background shows trees and a parking area, providing context to the location.

The image shows a dock by a calm water body, where two individuals are preparing to kayak. One person in a blue outfit with a life jacket is on the dock, while another person is adjusting equipment on a kayak. Colored circles (red, yellow, green, blue) are scattered around the image, possibly indicating areas of interest or destinations. There is also a sign present, indicating directions or information about the areas.

The image depicts a scene of a man standing on a wooden dock near a river, fishing with a rod. A young child is beside him, also engaged in the activity. In the foreground, there are several colored circles and a pink sticky note that has some handwritten text. The background features a cloudy sky and green trees along the riverside.

The image captures an outdoor disc golf scene featuring a person in motion throwing a disc towards a metallic disc golf basket. The background is filled with greenery, indicating a natural setting. Below the main action, there are colored markers: blue, red, and green circles, possibly indicating scores or positions. The top left section has a green box with the number '6', which seems to denote a hole number.

The image depicts a stream with several children engaged in play, including walking through water and exploring the surroundings. There are various colored circles overlaid on the image—red, blue, green, and yellow—that may represent areas for different activities or markers related to play zones. The circles are positioned around the children and rocks in the stream, enhancing the visual experience without detracting from the scene.

The image depicts three people riding mountain bikes through a grassy field. Two cyclists are positioned in the background, while one is in the foreground. Colorful circles in red, blue, green, and yellow overlay parts of the image, adding visual emphasis. The landscape features trees with autumn foliage, indicating a scenic outdoor setting.

Colorful paper circles and shapes surrounding handwritten text stating 'Rock Climbing' on a yellow sticky note.

Sticky Note Comments	# of Votes
"Rock Climbing!"	20
"Climbing/Bouldering!"	1
"Encourage wildlife viewing/appreciation with bird + bat houses, fish hides, undeveloped shoreline"	2
"Maintain hunting/fishing at existing sites"
"Spaced out camping/group camping/more electric tent camping. More woodsy camping but can still drive to"
"Focus more on conservation than recreation"	4
"Restrooms! Everywhere - easier to go with kids"
"Private land access partnerships! Park watershed partnerships"
"More places with day-use fire pits for picnics. Mines of Spain? Swiss Valley Park?"
"More good fishing holes and access county wide!"	2
"All wildlife habitat"
"[small boat launch] with inner tubing"	9
"Mississippi River! [fishing pier]"
"Natural dog park i.e wooded or prairie grass area with trails that is fenced in. Janesville, WI or Bloomington MN have great examples 15+ acres"
"No dog parks on DCCB areas"
"Please more fenced dog parks, close to Dbq City"	2
"Single track MTB trails"	1

Stream Restoration

Prairie Restoration

Shoreline Restoration

Fish Habitat

Small Boat Launch

Paved Trail

Bird Watching

Hiking Trails

Fire Pits

Large Shelter

Kayak Launch

Small Shelter

Fishing Pier

Disc Golf

Stream Play

Encourage wildlife viewing opportunities with bird + bat houses, fish hides, undeveloped shoreline

Fenced Dog Park

Write Your Own

Mountain Bike Trails

Image of a paper clip attached to a document.

The map illustrates the terrain surrounding a lake, with contour lines indicating elevation changes. Key features include a marked kayak launch area, trails labeled as good routes for hiking, and various notes about environmental considerations. The lake and surrounding paths are colored, enhancing visibility of routes and features, while sticky notes provide additional context about accessibility and activities. This detailed description conveys the spatial layout and important landmarks for users navigating the area.

Baseball/Softball Fields	3
Please monitor water quality wherever fishing or swimming is allowed - thanks	1
Walk bridge from town to get there over river	4
A trail loop around park	0
Bathroom water fountain	1
Trails, prairie restoration, camping!	2
Limit development and alteration as much as possible	4
Kayak launch, beach for kids, fishing	13
Swim access	4
Beverages/edible landscape	0
Single track trails, hike and potentially bike	6
City/county trail connection	11
Keep as natural as possible - add handicap access for fishing - plant remainder of crop land in prairie	3
Mountain bike trails w/ master plan to connect various areas - check out Bentonville, Arkansas	0
A great area to include ATV riding	5
Boat ramp and dock, trees, lots out here	3
Cut across? W/ kayaks [see map]	1
Kayak launch	0
Key Takeaways
Stream Play and Prairie Restoration are the top precedent votes - Stream Play received 28 votes and Prairie Restoration received 24 votes, the highest of any precedents
Hiking Trails and Mountain Bike Trails are highly desired - Hiking Trails received 25 votes and Mountain Bike Trails received 21 votes
Kayak launch is a top priority - Kayak Launch received 16 votes on precedents and 13 votes on sticky note
City/county trail connection is highly desired - Received 11 votes, the highest of any write-in sticky note

About Locher Recreation Area

Locher Recreation Area is a 117-acre parcel of land that has recently been acquired by Dubuque County Conservation, who was the benefactor of Eastern Iowa Conservation Foundation's efforts, as well as Pheasants Forever and the Department of Natural Resources. The area will become a new park space for the public, featuring more nature-based recreation and activities. Please leave any ideas you have on a sticky note, and use sticky dots to share your preference on elements that you would like to see in this new park space!

Location

The map illustrates the Dubuque region, featuring major roads and geographical landmarks. A notable visual element is a star marker indicating a specific location in the southern part of the map. Additionally, there are annotations on sticky notes indicating 'Boat ramp & dock' and 'TREES LOT OW HOUSE.' This information helps navigate and understand the layout and significant points of interest in the area.

What Would You Like to See at This Park?
Leave Your Comments Below:

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ཁེ་ཐི

Prawn

ཚང་མ་ཤི་རྒྱལ

A great area to include RTV riding

Bathroom water fountain

Limit development

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MAINTENANCE BUILDING EXISTING CONDITIONS

Maintenance Building

The existing facility does not adequately support current operational needs of the Dubuque County Conservation Board. Limited heating, no air conditioning, and insufficient on-site storage require materials and equipment to be housed at multiple locations throughout the county. In addition, the narrow driveway creates circulation issues and makes maneuvering multiple trailers difficult. The following images document these existing conditions and demonstrate the need for a new, centrally located county maintenance building.

The image depicts a cluttered office environment that includes a wooden desk with an office chair, a printer on the desk, and several papers scattered across the work surface. Above the desk is a wall-mounted clock and a bulletin board with multiple documents pinned to it. A window is visible on the left side, and a refrigerator is located on the far left. The floor appears to be bare concrete, adding to the utilitarian look of the space.

Current office space consists of one desk shared by nine employees, with inadequate room for paperwork. Future improvements should provide separate workstations or offices for park ranger and maintenance staff with appropriate storage.

The image shows a small restroom featuring a white toilet and a dirty sink. On the wall are several shelves with cleaning supplies, a mirror, and a yellow safety sign indicating eye wash station. The flooring is concrete, and the overall environment appears utilitarian and functional.

THE RESTROOM CONTAINS THE ONLY EYEWASH STATION, HANDWASHING STATION, AND CHEMICAL WASH AREA. THIS PRESENTS AN EMERGENCY ACCESS CONCERN IF THE RESTROOM IS OCCUPIED. THIS IS ALSO THE ONLY TOILET SERVING NINE FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES AND UP TO FIVE SEASONAL EMPLOYEES DURING THE SUMMER.

The image captures an interior garage space with two parked vehicles. A silver pickup truck occupies the center, its bed filled with tools and equipment, while a green utility vehicle is parked to the right. The garage has overhead lighting and wooden paneling, with scattered tools and equipment visible in the surroundings. The layout indicates a functional working environment.

VEHICLES ARE PARKED END-TO-END, WHICH CREATES OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES WHEN A VEHICLE OR PIECE OF EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED. THE FACILITY ALSO HAS NO FLOOR DRAINS OR DESIGNATED WASH BAY, WHICH SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A FUTURE FACILITY.

The image depicts a garage space with a gray Toyota truck parked inside. In the foreground, there is a wooden picnic table cluttered with various items such as bags, beverages, and equipment. An office chair is seen in the left corner. The garage background includes storage units and tools, indicating a workspace environment.

A single picnic table within the facility serves as the staff break area; however, vehicles and equipment are parked tightly end to end, which leaves little room for employees to comfortably sit or take lunch breaks.

The image shows a locker area in a building. There are several brown metal lockers lined up against the wall. On top of the lockers, there are helmets, a jacket, and other safety gear. Visible notices and signs on the walls indicate various instructions and rules for the area, including notices about noise and fishing restrictions. The flooring appears to be concrete with vehicles parked nearby, indicating this might be a utility or maintenance space.

EXISTING STORAGE SPACE IS INSUFFICIENT FOR STAFF EQUIPMENT, WITH GEAR STORED ON TOP OF LOCKERS DUE TO LIMITED CAPACITY. THERE IS NO SPACE AVAILABLE FOR PART-TIME OR SEASONAL EMPLOYEES.

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RDG... PLANNING DESIGN

Dubuque County Conservation

INTRODUCTION

Overview & Process

Introduction

Community Feedback

Accessibility and Basic Amenities Remain Important to the Visitor

Park Visitation Analysis

Classifying Parks

Nature Preserves

Wildlife Areas

Marinas

Regional Trails

Recreation Parks

Special Use Parks/Facilities

PARK PLAN UPDATES

Park Plan Legend

Existing | Proposed

Existing | Proposed

County Park Locations

Heritage Trail

Heritage Trail

Balltown Overlook

600 Balltown Road | 0.06 Acres

Special Use Park

Recent Progress:

Bankston Park

17826 Bankston Park Road | 142 Acres

Recreation Park

Recent Progress:

Bowstring Wildlife Area

727 Creekbranch Lane | 88 AcresWildlife Area

Recent Progress

Fillmore Recreation Area

21655 Highway 151 | 105 Acres

Recreation Park

Finley's Landing Park

24709 Finley's Landing Road | 107 AcresMarina

Recent Progress:

Graf Park

490 Graf Road | 8 Acres

Recreation Park

Heritage Pond & Campground

11330 Rupp Hollow Road | 16 AcresRecreation Park

INTERSTATE POWER PRESERVE

7523 Olde Davenport Road | 83 acres

Recent Progress:

50 Ft

Parking

John Deere Marsh

18714 Riverside Road | 81 Acres

Wildlife Area

Little Maquoketa River Mounds

18062 Walking Way | 41 Acres

Nature Preserve

LITTLE MAQUOKETA RIVER

Locher Recreation Area

116 Acres

Recreation Park

LOCHER RECREATION AREA

116 acres

Massey Marina

9526 Massey Station Road | 36 acresMarina

McCarthy Wildlife Area

100 Acres

Miller McGrath Wildlife Area

20909 Millville Road | 93 acres

Recent Progress:

Mud Lake Park

22312 Golf Lake Road | 30 acres

Picnic Area

♠ 🌳 🌳 🌳

New Wine Park

15971 New Wine Park Lane | 170 acres

Recent Progress:

Pohlman Prairie Preserve

13 Acres

Nature Preserve

Proving Grounds

10616 West John Deere Road | 145 Acres

Recent Progress:

727 Creekbranch Lane | 88 Acres
Wildlife Area

24709 Finley's Landing Road | 107 Acres
Marina

11330 Rupp Hollow Road | 16 Acres
Recreation Park

9526 Massey Station Road | 36 acres
Marina

天
天

Dubuque County
Conservation