Nature preserve conservation in Martinsville, Indiana

Fred & Dorothy Meyer Nature Preserve, located at Observatory Road in Martinsville, Indiana, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that is part of the Long Ridge conservation area. Visitors can enjoy a dramatic hike through steep slopes, ridges, and valleys in a large forest block that is unbroken by roads. The forest interior habitat is home to rare native species such as hooded and worm-eating warblers, Eastern box turtle, and the state-endangered cerulean warbler. The preserve features plants that are characteristic of the acidic, sharply drained soil of the ridges, including chestnut oak, black oak, pignut hickory, greenbriar, and star chickweed. In the protected ravines, visitors can find American beech, red oak, white ash, painted sedge, yellow trout lily, and bloodroot. This special property was made possible by a generous donation from Bob Meyer and his family, with additional support from the Indiana Heritage Trust. The preserve is dedicated to Fred Meyer, who played a key role in establishing the state's first dedicated nature preserve in 1969. The original 14 acres known as Shalom Woods was donated by the Cohen family in the 1990s.

Morgan-Monroe State Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6220 Forest Rd in Martinsville, Indiana, United States. This sprawling forest offers visitors the opportunity to explore over 24,000 acres of lush woodlands, scenic hiking trails, and tranquil streams. Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching, camping, picnicking, and fishing in this picturesque setting. With its diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty, Morgan-Monroe State Forest is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.