Soil is made up of many different types of particles. Oftentimes we avoid getting “dirty,” but if we take the time to look at, feel and even smell the soil that we walk on, we may gain a whole new perspective of the place that we live.

Prairies are marked by grasses, flowers and a lack of trees. In Stone State Park, prairies can be found on top of hills made of loess soil. Why might prairies form here? What prevents trees from growing at the top of these hills? What unique life might these prairies support? You might be surprised to find out.

Iowa is known for its nutrient-rich soil, but it isn’t found all across the state. Along the western edge of the state, loess soil covers the ground. What makes this soil different from most of the other soil in the state? How did it get here? Why is it piled into the rolling hills of western Iowa?

In Iowa, we often see birds flying, squirrels climbing or deer grazing. Have you ever wondered what areas these and other animals call home? What do their homes look like? Do they have to build it? What purpose does it serve? Check out this video to get an idea of where you might find animal homes near the place that you live.

While exploring the park, you might catch a glimpse of some familiar critters and some very unique plants. One plant you'll find is typically found in the southwest United States and Mexico than western Iowa. What could allow for this plant to grow such out of its typical home?

Compare the eastern brown bat's sound to the other bats.

Goldenrod is a very important plant for a lot of different insects that can be found at Nahant Marsh. In what unique ways do insects rely on this plant?

The water at Nahant Marsh is home to a wide variety of fish, insects, other animals and plants. Check out some of the unique creatures that can be found! What might you be able to find near you if you stopped and looked closely?

Nahant Marsh is home to a very special kind of turtle, the Blanding's turtle. What makes these turtles so special? Check out how the naturalists at Nahant Marsh keep track and teach us about these amphibians. 

Nahant Marsh is full of life. During the day you can see, hear and smell a wide variety of creatures. When the sun goes down, a whole new community of animals come out. You guessed it! Bats. Check out how naturalists keep track of which bats live at Nahant Marsh.