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North American Prairie Conference
Field Trip Information Summary
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
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Garvin Heights Savannah
Restoration |
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Brief
description of site and highlights of site (habitat, flora, fauna): |
- Garvin Heights Park is located
in Winona Minnesota. The land is owned by Winona State University.
- The bluffs consist of both an
oak savanna and prairie land.
- Prairies that are found on the
south and southwest facing sides of steep hills in Minnesota are known as
bluff prairies, xeric prairies or goat prairies.
- The locations of these types of
prairies receive more direct sun shine, making them warmer and drier. This
gives them their own unique microhabitat.
- The prairies and savannas of
Garvin Heights grow on a dry thin soil that is on top of flat lying
dolomite and sandstone rocks.
- The scenic outlook provides an overview of Winona, Mississippi
River Valley. Bring your binoculars and camera.
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| Walking distance,
rigor, potential hazards: |
- ~1 mile if you go the full route
- Rigor of field
trip: moderate.
- Bluff top is paved and
handicapped accessible.
- Steps have been constructed into
the side of the bluff for easier access in some places.
- Potential
hazards at site (steep or rough terrain, cliffs, snakes, insect
pests,
noxious plants). Poison ivy and sandburs are likely to be encountered so
dress accordingly.
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Area
of site (approximate acreage): |
~30 acres |
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Duration of field trip: |
~ Two hours |
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Access
for charter bus loading/unloading/parking: |
Yes |
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Availability of drinking water, rest rooms, shade: |
No drinking water or rest rooms. Shade
is available. |
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General location (direction/distance from nearest town):
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South edge of Winona City proper, atop the
bluff ridge |
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Distance from Winona, MN: |
~ two miles from WSU main campus |
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Potential leader(s)/guide(s): |
Dr. Carol Jefferson,
Restoration Supervisor, WSU Professor Emeritus
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