Northeast Iowa Natural Beauty

This past weekend gave us another beautiful Saturday to enjoy. I took a ride to Decorah, Iowa for some shopping and got more than I bargained for. My wife and I decided to take the scenic route through many of Northeast Iowa's sleepy little communities, what a treat. The short list included Lawler, Spillville, Ridgeway, Decorah, Calmar, Festina, Eldorado, St. Lucas, Waucoma and back to New Hampton.



This is a very scenic area. While driving through the rolling hills one can look out over the valleys or be gazing up at the bluffs. We encountered all types of wildlife, especially when we stopped at the DNR fish hatcheries.





Sure there were thousands of trout in the ponds and tanks.....

But something else caught our eye.




There was a Bald Eagle soaring in the afternoon sky looking for an easy meal. I wish I had my camera. Many of the visitors watched as the predator floated over one of the ponds and snatched up a yearling trout. As the Eagle flew off we spotted it's destination, a huge nest in a tall strong oak tree about five hundred yards from the hatchery. It's like living across the street from a favorite restaurant.


It is such a privilege to be living and working in Northeast Iowa. Great people, great scenery and fresh air.