Wapello County Trails Council
Not-For-Profit 501(c)(3) Corporation
Formed in 2006, the council is a non-profit community organization whose purpose is to create and coordinate a trail system that promotes health, recreation, and safety while maintaining the natural beauty of this historic area.
A master trail plan has been approved by the council, with support from the City of Ottumwa. The plan includes completion of several trail sections along the Des Moines River levee, including the north levee from Market Street east to Gray Eagle Nature Preserve; the north levee from Market Street west to Turkey Island; the south levee from the Wabash Bridge along an abandoned rail line and then west along the levee; and Ottumwa Park loops, incorporating any necessary bridges and connectors.
The completed system along the Des Moines River will be approximately eight miles. Eventually, the council hopes to expand to the outer limits of Ottumwa and beyond. Conversations have been held with representatives from other trail councils, including Eldon and Fairfield. The hope is to connect the Ottumwa system to Wapello County and beyond.
Fundraising efforts are on-going. The council continues to seek grant funds to supplement local efforts to pave the eight-mile trail.
The trail features unique natural areas at either end, Gray Eagle to the east and Turkey Island to the west. Both offer opportunities for interpretive trail development, allowing users the opportunity to explore these unique ecosystems; view a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife; and simply enjoy nature.
A master trail plan has been approved by the council, with support from the City of Ottumwa. The plan includes completion of several trail sections along the Des Moines River levee, including the north levee from Market Street east to Gray Eagle Nature Preserve; the north levee from Market Street west to Turkey Island; the south levee from the Wabash Bridge along an abandoned rail line and then west along the levee; and Ottumwa Park loops, incorporating any necessary bridges and connectors.
The completed system along the Des Moines River will be approximately eight miles. Eventually, the council hopes to expand to the outer limits of Ottumwa and beyond. Conversations have been held with representatives from other trail councils, including Eldon and Fairfield. The hope is to connect the Ottumwa system to Wapello County and beyond.
Fundraising efforts are on-going. The council continues to seek grant funds to supplement local efforts to pave the eight-mile trail.
The trail features unique natural areas at either end, Gray Eagle to the east and Turkey Island to the west. Both offer opportunities for interpretive trail development, allowing users the opportunity to explore these unique ecosystems; view a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife; and simply enjoy nature.