Roberts Creek State Preserve in northeastern Iowa protects a rare algific talus slope ecosystem in the Driftless Area along Roberts Creek near St. Olaf and north of Elkader. Managed as a preserve rather than a recreation site, it is valued for the unusually cool conditions created by these slopes, which support specialized plant life. Among them is the threatened wildflower Aconitum noveboracense, also known as Northern Blue Monkshood or Northern Wild Monkshood. Because this habitat is highly sensitive and shelters a threatened species, the area is closed to the public. Its importance rests in safeguarding one of Iowa’s uncommon natural communities.