The George P. Irwin Conservation Education Station (GPICES) was established in September of 1993 with the transfer of a 382 acre tract of land to the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District.      A total resource managment approach is being used to develop the property which consists of timber, bottoms, grassland and cropland - much of which is considered highly erodible land (HEL).  In 1997, most of the cropland was enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program.      Some of the demonstration sites at the Station include sustainable agriculture projects, shallow water wetlands, warm season grasses and legumes.  Prairie burns are conducted annually at the Station.  These burns have been used as training sessions for area residents.        A hunting lottery is held each July.  Wildlife hunted at GPICES include deer, turkey and upland game.  Permits for trapping can also be obtained.  For more information contact the District office at (618)548-2230 ext 3.

George P. Irwin Conservation Education Station

This shallow water wetland was created in 1995 with assistance from the US Fish and Wildlife Service

Prairie burns are completed annually at the education station.