DAVENPORT, Iowa – Nahant Marsh Education Center in Davenport, Iowa, has received official designation as a Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area (SSNHA) Site.
Ranging from working farms and museums to nature centers and historic sites, the heritage area includes a network of sites and attractions dedicated to preserving and sharing their own unique part of America's agricultural story.
In celebration of the partnership between SSNHA and Nahant Marsh, a ribbon cutting will take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Nahant Marsh in Davenport. Representatives from Nahant Marsh, Silos & Smokestacks, and area partners will gather to commemorate the occasion.
"We are excited to welcome Nahant Marsh as one of our newest Heritage Area Sites," said Candy Welch-Streed, SSNHA Managing Director. "Iowa's agricultural story is deeply connected to its natural resources, and Nahant Marsh offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between our land, water, wildlife, and agricultural heritage."
Located along the Mississippi River in Davenport, Nahant Marsh is one of the largest urban wetlands on the Upper Mississippi River. The preserve is dedicated to protecting and restoring wetland habitat while providing environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities. Through educational programs, guided tours, and hands-on experiences, Nahant Marsh connects visitors of all ages to the natural world and the importance of conservation.
"Nahant Marsh is a wonderful addition to our network of Heritage Area Sites because it helps tell an important part of Iowa's agricultural story that is sometimes overlooked," said Laura Elfers, SSNHA Program Director. "Wetlands play a vital role in protecting water quality, supporting wildlife, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. By connecting visitors with these natural resources, Nahant Marsh helps demonstrate how conservation and agriculture are closely connected."
Through a network of sites, programs, and events, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area tells the story of farm life and agribusiness—past and present. Visitors can learn about and experience agriculture at a variety of museums, historic sites, farms, and natural areas. One of 62 federally designated heritage areas in the nation, Silos & Smokestacks is a member of the National Park Service National Heritage Area System. The heritage area covers 37 counties in northeast Iowa.
To plan your visit or learn more, visit www.silosandsmokestacks.org.
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Silos & Smokestacks
National Heritage Area Headquarters