The Whalen site is just north of New Albin, IA. It is dominated by reed canary grass and was previously managed for hay production before the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge acquired the property.

Various styles of tree planting are being done on the site to help shade out Reed Canary Grass and re-establish floodplain forests. Among the different methods being utilized, we have planted a stand of 2- to 4-inch diameter Cottonwood trees. This planting requires no herbicidal site preparation and should effectively produce an instantaneous cover of cottonwood trees. 

In total nearly 52 acres will be planted and improved on the site.   

Funding is being provided by the Outdoor Heritage Fund, McKnight Foundation, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Aveda Corporation.