The W. R. Kearn Memorial tract was named for William R. “Ted” Kearn, who donated this 120acre tract in 1987. Management of the area is primarily for upland wildlife species. The terrain is gently rolling open fields. Area managers use prescribed fire, grazing, and other management practices to maintain healthy grasslands, simulate disturbances, and limit the negative impacts of invasive species. High quality grasslands are important habitat for many species.
The W. R. Kearn Memorial Conservation area is being intensely managed for prairie chickens. Crop fields have been converted to native warm-season and cool-season grasses to provide both nesting and brood-rearing cover for prairie chickens. Many species of grassland wildlife, including Northern Harriers, Upland Sandpipers, and Shortear Owls are commonly seen on this area.
