Natural areas are being rapidly destroyed throughout the world and especially in Iowa with its intensive agriculture. Natural areas are valuable as sources of research materials, for documentation of accomplished research, for teaching, and for recreation. Through cooperative action between public and private organizations, many natural areas have been preserved in Iowa. However, recreational and other use of these areas may destroy their natural values. It is important that many more natural areas be preserved by such organizations as The Nature Conservancy as well as the state. Of particular value are teaching and research areas near schools, unusual habitats with rare species, and prairie remnants along railroad rights-of-way
