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This week I decided to feature another one of Iowa's native orchids. It is in bloom right now so I thought that would be appropriate. A few years ago, I found a small colony of these growing in a small marshy area beside a set of railroad tracks east and south of Ankeny, Iowa. I was there on other business so I couldn't get any pictures of them at the time. I figured I'd try to get back there the next year when the blossoms were fresh and get some good closeups. I was in total disbelief the following spring when I drove by and the railroad had done some constuction on a signal box and had driven heavy equipment all over the area. I've sadly checked the area each year with no luck in spotting any of the small orchids poking up through the grass. Finally, last week, I stopped by and was thrilled to find two of them growing over on the other side of the wet area. I hope they can make a steady recovery in the area.
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