Located between Carroll and Jefferson, just north of Coon Rapids, Dunbar Slough is a popular destination for hunters, bird watchers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy Iowa’s natural beauty.
The nearly 2,500-acre wildlife complex features rolling prairie hills, wetlands and four separate parcels, including the main area and three smaller satellite properties. The diverse habitat provides a home for a wide variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, trumpeter swans, pheasants, sandhill cranes, deer, rabbits, muskrats, great blue herons, egrets and numerous grassland bird species.
Dunbar Slough is also considered one of the region’s premier dove hunting areas. Bird watchers have plenty to enjoy as well. About five years ago, a juvenile wood stork spent the summer at the complex, marking only the third documented sighting of the species in Iowa.
Dean Nelson, a wildlife biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Saylorville Wildlife Unit at Bays Branch, has worked on habitat management at Dunbar Slough for more than 20 years.
Nelson said the goal is to restore and maintain the landscape as close as possible to its historic condition, with a healthy mixture of native prairie and wetlands.
Prescribed burns are one of the primary tools used to maintain the prairie, control woody vegetation and keep invasive plants under control. During 2026, the Bays Branch Unit conducted prescribed burns on approximately 300 to 400 acres. Larger burns are planned for the main area in 2027.
Some areas require additional restoration work. Nelson said a 117-acre section is scheduled for renovation this winter. The plan involves farming the ground for three years before seeding it with a diverse mixture of prairie grasses and wildflowers.
Wetland management is another important part of maintaining the complex. A new water control structure was installed shortly after Labor Day, allowing wildlife managers to better regulate water levels.
According to Nelson, managing water levels helps encourage aquatic vegetation and control invasive carp. Carp can enter the marsh during flooding events, damaging aquatic plants and affecting water quality.
The wetlands provide important habitat for waterfowl, including ducks, geese and trumpeter swans. Sandhill cranes have also nested near the marsh. Visitors can even enjoy paddling on the larger slough to experience the wetlands from the water.
Agriculture also plays a role in habitat management. A local producer participating in the beginning farmer program installs and maintains the food plots, and agricultural practices at Dunbar Slough are certified organic.
Although the property has very few trees, it supports a healthy deer population and offers opportunities for shed antler hunting.
Visitors should also be aware that the area from Highway E53 north for one mile to the gravel road is designated as a waterfowl refuge. A nearby 90-acre parcel is currently being farmed as part of its preparation for future prairie restoration.
Nelson said the long-term goal is to have less than five percent of the property in agricultural production. Currently, approximately 10 percent is used for agriculture, with wildlife managers working toward reducing that amount.
Dunbar Slough offers plenty of opportunities throughout the year for outdoor recreation, wildlife observation and hunting. With seven parking lots providing public access, visitors have several places to explore the nearly 2,500-acre complex.
