John Deere Marsh

Discover John Deere Marsh in Dubuque

This 35 acre cattail marsh complex lies at the confluence of the Little Maquoketa River and the Mississippi River. John Deere Inc. leased this area decades ago from the United States Army Corp of Engineers.  John Deere Inc. then constructed a water inlet from the Mississippi River in order to draw fresh water to cool its coal-fired plant.  When the John Deere plant switched to natural gas it no longer needed the water source and the area was returned to the Corp of Engineers.  The area is currently managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service for public recreation and access to the Mississippi River.  The Dubuque County Conservation Board assists with the management of the area. 

John Deere Marsh attracts numerous species of shore birds and waterfowl throughout the year making it a favorite area for bird enthusiasts.  There is a one and a half mile, crushed limestone hiking trail that provides great access to the entire area.  A small, one lane, gravel boat ramp is available for canoes, kayaks, and small vessels to access the Mississippi River.