This dedicated state nature preserve protects 43 acres of dune-and-swale topography
and floodplain marsh along the Grand Calumet River. The uplands feature black oak
savanna and sand prairie communities, while the wetlands feature sedge meadows,
cattail marsh and buttonbush swamps. Over 250 species of plants have been identified
on the site, including several rare species that have strict habitat requirements.
Notable plants include Wild Lupine, Harebell, Fringed Gentian, Blue Flag Iris, White
Wild Indigo, Side-oats Grama Grass, Prairie Lily, Blazing Star and many others.
The site is managed by SHLT to maintain biological diversity and to preserve the
fire dependent communities that occur here.
From I-80/94, take Kennedy Ave. north about 2.5 miles, just past the series of overpasses
that carry US 20, the South Shore RR and the Indiana Toll Road over Kennedy Ave.
Turn right (east) onto the first road, which leads to the back end of the RESCO
plant. Park at bend in road and enter, through cable gate, along dirt road that
leads east. Property extends from Toll Road to river and from fence to billboards.