Myrna J. Newgent Nature Preserve is an upland forest habitat that is dominated by second-growth sugar maples, hickories, beeches, and elms. Most 19th- and 20th-century farms had a woodlot like this, a quiet space where nature was permitted to endure as it had existed prior to settlement.

The forest floor in spring offers a breathtaking display of wildflowers that may be one of the most pristine in Indiana: large-flowered trillium, yellow trout lily, blue cohosh, Dutchman’s breeches, bloodroot, toothwort and many others. Blue-eyed Mary and purple larkspur are found nowhere else on Shirley Heinze properties. The woods attracts migrant and nesting birdlife, including the pileated woodpecker, North America’s largest.

Access to the preserve is by special permission or guided tour only, due to the extremely sensitive nature of the forest floor. Contact us to learn more about visiting Myrna J. Newgent Nature Preserve.