Prairie Springs and Prairie Farmer Trails

Challenge

Howard County is home to some of Iowa’s most scenic outdoor experiences, and its trails are critical for connecting communities with nature and recreation. However, two vital trail systems, the Prairie Springs and Prairie Farmer Trails, were aging and creating accessibility, safety, and drainage issues for trail users and adjacent property owners.

The Prairie Springs Trail, stretching 2.2 miles between Cresco and the Prairie’s Edge Nature Center and Turkey River Campground, had become increasingly difficult for some user groups due to steep slopes and narrow shoulders. Safety was a top concern, particularly in wooded areas with limited sight distance and deteriorating edges.

Meanwhile, the 0.78-mile Prairie Farmer Trail section faced failing drainage infrastructure. A patchwork of outdated culverts beneath the trail had caused holes, voids, and erosion, creating hazards for users and requiring regular maintenance. Crossings and access points to adjacent properties also lacked the design needed to support diverse user needs. 

Solution

SEH, as the prime consultant, partnered with Wicks Construction as the contractor, and Howard County to reimagine and reconstruct both trail systems – prioritizing safety, accessibility, longevity, and harmony with the natural environment. 

Enhanced Accessibility and Safety

On the Prairie Springs Trail, SEH redesigned slopes and shoulders to improve user safety and expand access to people of all abilities. Rather than relying on intrusive fencing or high maintenance retaining walls, the team developed solutions that fit into the existing landscape, preserving the trail’s wooded charm while improving its usability. For example, the trail was rerouted within the existing right-of-way to provide more space between the path and a steep ravine. Grading adjustments removed the need for a short retaining wall and a small culvert. In another section, culverts were realigned to eliminate steep slopes off the shoulders – an area where a person using a wheelchair had previously experienced an accident before reconstruction.

This segment now offers a more welcoming experience, linking campers, cyclists, hikers, and families between Cresco and the nature center in a safer and more inclusive way.

Stormwater and Drainage Improvements

The Prairie Farmer Trail reconstruction focused heavily on correcting drainage issues. SEH removed and replaced the makeshift system of culverts that had led to subgrade failures. This was achieved by replacing a combination of corrugated metal pipe (CMP), high-density polyethylene pipe (HDPE), and reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) with a single continuous stretch of HDPE, incorporating area intakes to drain ditches. By implementing a more robust and sustainable drainage solution, the team ensured a smoother, longer-lasting trail while mitigating erosion and water-related damage.

Trail crossings and slopes were also regraded for better connectivity, allowing users and neighboring property owners easier, safer access.

Awards

• 2023 Iowa Concrete Paving Association Award - Recreational Trails Category