Hartman Reserve covers 340 acres of woodlands in metropolitan Black Hawk County. The main habitats within the reserve are forest, wetland and prairie.
The majority of Hartman Reserve is covered with forest. White Oak, Red Oak, Bur Oak trees, some over 100 years old can be found in the upland forest.
A portion of the Hartman Reserve forest grows on the floodplain of the Cedar River. This lowland forest is composed of Hackberry, Walnut, Silver Maple, and other trees tolerant to flooding.
The wetland portion of Hartman Reserve is on the north side. The Cedar River and its backwaters, including two old gravel pits, are found in this area and provide aquatic habitat for geese, wood ducks, mallards, and red shouldered hawks.
A native tall prairie grass area is located in the southwestern portion of the reserve. Native prairie plants are also being restored near the Hartman Interpretive building.
A beautiful modern Interpretive Center is located near the parking area and is the site of many events and public programs throughout the year for both adults and children. Restrooms are located in the interpretive center. It is common to see school buses in the parking area and groups of children enjoying the many trails and natural beauty of the area. To find more information about the programs and activities going on at the reserve you can go to www.hartmanreserve.org.
I have created several geocaches that depict some of the animals and insects that you might encounter in this type of habitat. There were seven original caches placed in 2019 and I am adding to the "herd" this year. These caches have been placed with permission from the Hartman Reserve Staff.
These are hidden in various parts of the reserve that can be accessed by hiking the many trails that wind through the area. Part of the challenge will be deciding which trails to follow to reach the caches. Some may require detours, or may even be inaccessible during wet seasons. Long pants are recommended since the caches are located a little off of the main trails. Hiking boots are also a good idea during wet seasons.
I have purposely left out of the description the type of “wildlife” that you will find at each hide. I have provided a “hint” to the type of creature you will find in the encrypted hint, but if you want to be surprised when reaching ground zero, do not read the hint.
Enjoy the hunt as well as the beauty of this natural area!