Governor Branstad recognizes Winneshiek County family for their donation

(Left to right): Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, Mary Neste, Ingrid Neste, Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa DNR Director Chuck Gipp (Photo by Jessica Rilling)

Iowa Governor Terry Branstad has recognized Ingrid Neste and Mary Neste, both of Decorah for their land donation to the State of Iowa.

The Neste family donated a portion of the value of their family farm near Decorah through a bargain sale to the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. The property includes Dry Run Creek, woodlands, hay fields and tree plantings. A mile of abandoned railroad corridor bisects the woodland.

The Winneshiek County Conservation Board plans to develop a trail on the former rail corridor to connect Prairie Farmer Trail and Trout Run Trail. This property will be one of the most scenic segments along the proposed trail.