President's Note: Please excuse the look of the far west end of the preserve. We are under "de-construction" to reduce the amount of invasive buckthorn that has grown up over the years. There will be more removal activities in the fall of 2024.
A BRIEF HISTORY
In December of 1987 a 10-acre plot of land was given to the Albert Lea Audubon Society by the estate of Myron and Stephanie Pederson. One year later an additional 6 lots adjacent to this land were purchased by the Albert Lea Audubon Society for payment of back taxes. Thus was born the Albert Lea Audubon Nature Preserve. It is tucked away in the southwestern part of Albert Lea off the end of Oregon Street. After years of just basic trail maintenance, things began to change in 2005. Paul Moore, president of the Society at that time, wanted to make the Preserve a place to be proud of. With advice from Emily Hutchins of the Minnesota DNR, the work began with dead tree and shrub removal, invasive weed control, park bench installation, trail expansion, and new plantings added.
A BRIEF HISTORY
In December of 1987 a 10-acre plot of land was given to the Albert Lea Audubon Society by the estate of Myron and Stephanie Pederson. One year later an additional 6 lots adjacent to this land were purchased by the Albert Lea Audubon Society for payment of back taxes. Thus was born the Albert Lea Audubon Nature Preserve. It is tucked away in the southwestern part of Albert Lea off the end of Oregon Street. After years of just basic trail maintenance, things began to change in 2005. Paul Moore, president of the Society at that time, wanted to make the Preserve a place to be proud of. With advice from Emily Hutchins of the Minnesota DNR, the work began with dead tree and shrub removal, invasive weed control, park bench installation, trail expansion, and new plantings added.
|
|
Today there are about 2 miles of mowed trails, and the birds and wildlife are abundant. We host private bee hives from a local beekeeper and share the honey. Please come and enjoy the fruits of the generosity of so many people by walking the trails and observing the natural world. In order to maintain the quiet and serenity of this little piece of nature, motorized vehicles and picnicking are not allowed, and dogs must always be controlled on leash. Take only memories or photos and leave only gentle footprints. If you would like to contribute to the beauty of the Albert Lea Audubon Nature Preserve through financial donations, plant donations, or a few hours of satisfying work, please contact Karen at 507-433-2701 or Loren at 507-383-9704. It continues to be a work in progress. |
Here's where to find our Preserve...