The Jacobson Fen is part of an expansive 18,000-acre mosaic of
tallgrass prairie, pothole wetlands, perennial creeks and fen
communities and lies at the head of one Monighan Creek’s major
tributaries. At this preserve, tallgrass prairie sweeps across
this rolling land and unique wetlands communities, specifically
fens, thrive. The mineral-rich water flowing through this region
intersects with the surface of the ground, creating the unique
characteristics necessary to form a fen. There are roughly 50
fens in the area, with 10 occurring specifically at the Jacobson
Fen preserve. Each of these fens produces a unique and complex
habitat, and with 55-degree waters that never freeze, important
winter habitat for birds and small mammals is created. From
Clear Lake, SD, go one mile north on Highway 15. Turn east at
the rodeo sign and travel three miles east (road will turn from
asphalt to gravel after 1.5 miles). Turn north and go 1.2 miles.
The preserve is at the top of the hill past the “T”
intersection. Look for t