Port Louisa Nature Reserve

Florida isn't the only place that has nature preserves. There is one just north of Keithsburg a few miles. Take the road north, which is known as the Keithsburg Road but is officially 76th Street about 4 miles out of town. You'll see a sign that reads Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.

It is an area that is undeveloped. Country roads, likely too muddy when daily to safely travel on, it is a wilderness area that probably doesn't get a whole lot of traffic.

Mississippi tributaries with a host of things to see and photograph.

I had the distinct feeling that there were more things looking at me than I was seeing.

This was an interesting sight, an early August view of a waterway besieged with newly budding greenery. It made for as scenic but murky view of the water.

The Wombie was with me this morning. We were heading over to Mt. P for the obligatory Jerry's Pizza.

Another shot of the green waterway. I don't think this is algae. I believe it is a small green plant that proliferates in some conditions. Duckweed?

A flower revealed a busy bee.

And upon closer inspection the bee had some competition from a smaller bug.

Muddy, murky and a little on the creepy side, this is nonetheless nature at its best in the Mercer County area.

Full of life and teeming with vegetation, the area is pretty cool, and we never even made it to the marina area.

Evidence of high water.

Sightseeing done. I'm glad we made a sidetrip. Now on to Mt. P. Sure hope they let us in.

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