Here is a dream setup - a cozy and practical ranch home sitting on a dead-end driveway at the base of a manicured recreational property. It’s a place where nature and comfort blend into the ultimate experience of owning a beautiful, secluded property. Located just north of Lockridge, between Mount Pleasant and Fairfield in eastern Jefferson County, it’s near the Skunk River with the incredible wildlife that southeast Iowa is known for. Every decision was made on this farm with the primary objective to benefit wildlife.

We often don’t mention the owner’s names, but in this case, it's appropriate to commend the beautiful property that Dwayne and Linda Olver have stewarded over the last twenty years. Their commitment to land stewardship is evident across this farm, and the result is a magnificent representation of what a well-cared-for property can look like.

This farm's diversity is remarkable, with dense stands of native grasses, hardwoods, early successional cover, and four ponds. The landscape draws wildlife like a magnet, designed to keep deer, turkeys, and pheasants around all year. The north-south layout of the property features rolling draws leading into the higher fields, most of which are filled with a vibrant blend of Indian, Switchgrass, Big Bluestem, and Little Bluestem—a fully restored prairie with vivid color across its canvas. Ten food plots and four ponds (three stocked with bluegill, catfish, bass, and crappie) make this place a haven for wildlife and anyone who enjoys fishing or hunting.

One of the most impressive features is the network of mowed trails that weave through the property. These trails create miles of valuable edge habitat and allow easy access to every corner of the farm. Whether checking on food plots, maintaining the land, or enjoying a peaceful ride, these trails make the farm accessible every season.

Seven homemade hunting blinds are spread across the farm, perfectly positioned for optimal views of the food plots. Though these could be replaced, they are in ideal locations. The eastern plot, known as "Triangle," is a hidden gem—a secluded spot where planting turnips and brassicas could set you up for exceptional archery hunts. With the farm's layout, you'll have stand options for any wind direction and hunting scenario throughout the season.

Another monumental achievement invaluable to the next owner will be the 5,000 oaks planted 20 years ago. The Red, White, pin, and Burr Oaks are now flourishing, maturing into a beautiful, healthy woodland that will continue to improve the habitat for years to come.

The home fits perfectly into this natural setting, tucked on the south end near two of the largest ponds. It has a great layout. Upstairs are two bedrooms, with the master featuring a walk-in closet and en suite bath, complete with a large tub that overlooks one of the ponds. Its open-concept kitchen, dining, and living areas are perfect for gathering and have updated appliances. The screened-in patio is an ideal place to start or end your day enjoying the peace of the farm. The walkout basement, largely unfinished, offers ample space to finish into a new area.

Rural water, central air, forced air heat, and propane service the home. There appears to be high-speed fiber internet at the road entrance. The landscaping surrounding the house is meticulously maintained, with retaining walls, tree plantings, shrubs, and flowers all designed to enhance the home’s curb appeal.

Less than a mile from the famous Skunk River, this area around Lockridge, Germanville, and Rome is renowned for its giant whitetails and plentiful turkeys. The attention to detail and love poured into this property by the Olvers is truly special. If you’re ready to take over the stewardship of this remarkable property, contact Land Specialist Ben Harshyne with The Southeast Iowa Land Team for Whitetail Properties Real Estate.