Underwood June 2021
Underwood - 38.0 km from Red Deer. To reach this area head east on Highway 42 turning south on Range Road 254A right after the yield sign there is a gate with an Nature Conservancy of Canada Sign. Park in the ditch and don't block any gates. The more you explore this area the more you find! Having habitat patches of grassland, wetland and aspen forest. This natural area is rich in plant diversity with some notable flowering species: sticky and Richardson's geraniums, harebell, mountain death camas, wood lily, yellow ladys slipper, and prairie smoke. Many different species of wildlife use this area including white-tailed and mule deer, coyote, red fox, muskrat, beaver, forest birds, wetland birds and grassland birds. There are a few oil lease sites on this property so there are truck paths to walk on. Be mindful this area also leads to the Boote NCC property which needs permission to access (www.connect2nature.ca). Underwood does not need permission to access. The partners than manage this area include Alberta Fish and Game Association and Nature Conservancy of Canada. Happy Exploring! Collins June 2021
Collins - #151 in Alberta Discovery Guide and 44.6 km from Red Deer. This natural area is east on Highway 42 to the north of the road before Highway 21. I park along Range Road 240 being careful not to block any gates. This area is a oasis of wetlands nestled in a grassland habitat. There are a few truck trails but it is easy to walk through if you go off trail. This natural area is on the outskirts of a large wetland, although not part of the natural area you can watch the vast number of waterfowl swim and sit along the shoreline. Last time I was there I saw a Black Crested Cormorant patiently sitting on a fence post airing out their jet black wings. Other wildlife that use this area include white-tailed and mule deer, moose, coyote, red fox and grassland birds. The partner than manages this area is Ducks Unlimited Canada. Be cautious around open water, watch for nesting birds, wildlife in the area and changing weather conditions. Happy exploring! |