Brayton Research Forest

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Location Delhi, Delaware County Directions: From Hopkinton, go north on Highway 38, take the first gravel road left and go .2 mile and turn east past a building site. Go about half a mile to the end of the road. The farm begins at the end of the road and lies to the east. Size 322 acres Owner Iowa State University History The research forest was donated to ISU in 1949 by Emma L. Brayton. The university purchased an additional 10 acres in 1951. Agro-Climatic Zone Northeast Iowa Soils The area has a complex glacial history. The terrain is marked by limestone outcroppings, steep side-slopes and narrow ridges. The forest is in the Fayette-Dubuque-Storyland soil association. Research and Demonstrations Researchers use the native forest to study and demonstrate a variety of topics of interest to woodland owners. Studies and demonstrations include walnut establishment and fertilization, production of firewood, undergrowth management, desirable species establishment and lumber and veneer wood production. Researchers also study and demonstrate methods for re-establishing oak trees.