START
In early 2018, Decatur County Conservation began planning a 1.6-mile extension of the Little River Scenic Pathway, connecting Leon, IA to the Little River Recreation Area and future Savanna Hills Learning Center. Snyder & Associates was selected to provide engineering design services and assist with funding efforts.
PHASE I
ROUTE EVALUATION
Snyder & Associates joined Decatur County Conservation staff in walking the proposed route for the Little River Scenic Pathway. Together, they assessed the best alignment to preserve the mature tree canopy, ideal crossings at three existing drainage ways, and minimized the amount of grading needed throughout the corridor.
FUNDING AWARDED
Decatur County Conservation secured Wellmark and Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) grants, providing local matching funds needed to pursue additional state and federal funding opportunities. Both Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and State Recreational Trails (SRT) Funding were awarded, and the project was successfully bid in February 2021.
CONSTRUCTION BEGAN
Construction began on the 10-foot wide, 5” PCC trail in September 2021. Grading and paving activities were completed during the fall construction season.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION & MONITORING
Following construction, temporary erosion control measures were installed, including silt fence, erosion control socks (wattles), erosion control matting, and temporary seeding and mulch. The site was monitored throughout the winter to maintain compliance with Iowa DNR and NPDES requirements due to its proximity to the lake.
GRASS SEEDING
The following spring, once weather allowed, the contractor returned to complete final restoration efforts, including native grass seeding throughout the corridor.
PHASE I COMPLETE
With restoration established, Phase I was completed and opened to the public.
PHASE II
FUNDING AWARDED
Funding efforts for Phase II began, resulting in the award of SRT and local funding. The project was successfully bid in March 2025.
CLEARING & GRUBBING
To comply with Iowa DNR regulations protecting Indiana bat habitat, Decatur County Conservation staff completed tree and brush clearing within the project limits prior to the start of construction.
CONSTRUCTION BEGAN
Contractors mobilized in August of 2025, starting with grading and culvert work. Trail paving followed at the Savanna Hills Learning Center and extended approximately one-half mile southeast to connect with the Phase I trail segment. Restoration work for the project, including native grass seeding, was completed the following spring.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION & MONITORING
Temporary erosion control measures were installed and monitored throughout the winter to maintain compliance with Iowa DNR and NPDES permit requirements.
TRAIL CONNECTION COMPLETE
Following the completion of restoration efforts, Phase II opened to the public. This marked another milestone in the project's transformation.
GRAND OPENING OF THE SAVANNA HILLS LEARNING CENTER
The Decatur County Conservation Board welcomed the surrounding community to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Savanna Hills Learning Center, offering visitors their first look at the facility and its future educational opportunities.
TODAY
For nearly a decade, Snyder & Associates has partnered with Decatur County Conservation to help bring the Little River Scenic Pathway vision to life. Today, the trail spans 3.3 miles, connecting the Savanna Hills Learning Center to the north side of Leon, IA. This milestone represents an important step toward Decatur County Conservation's long-term vision of completing a trail loop around the Little River Recreation Area.
“We have seen a tremendous positive impact on, not just our community, but the whole county and surrounding areas. It’s amazing how many people use the trail every day, from leisurely walks to biking, running, and simply enjoying the outdoors. We are so lucky to have this trail in Decatur County!”
