Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve

Overview

Lying alongside the White River, this property offers views of glorious summer wildflowers in season, with a mix of prairie plants and oak savanna. Along the river to the south, bottomland forest is growing. These are the result of our restoration efforts in 2008, when we planted over 19,000 trees here.

From the forbs and grasses of the savanna, you might catch the raspy calling of grasshopper sparrows. From the young forest, you can hear the hoarse “fitz-bew” of willow flycatchers. This bird, which the Audubon Society lists as declining, prefers the habitat of open woods near water.

The property borders Riverside Middle School to the south. Students use the site as an outdoor educational laboratory, learning about its natural features and history.

History of the Property

The preserve was purchased with White River Restoration Trust funds in early 2006 and named Wapihani. In 2015 it was renamed the Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve, after a longtime volunteer and supporter, the late Nonie Krauss. She served as a member of CILTI’s board of directors and advisory board for eight years. During that time, she helped us protect this property, among other important contributions. Krauss is credited with driving CILTI’s evolution from an all-volunteer, informal organization to one with a professional staff and thousands of acres under stewardship.

Planning your Visit

The property is located at the southwest corner of 116th Street and Eller Road. Public parking is available in the parking lot located behind Riverside Middle School (10910 Eller Road) after 4 pm on weekdays and anytime during weekends. Park by the tennis courts and walk north to find a grassy lane into the preserve.