Polk

It’s about the people.

Serving a diverse Central Iowa community, Polk County is among the nation’s most innovative public institutions. We bring together creative leaders, collaborative organizations and key resources to empower our communities and make life better for all people in Polk County.

5 Points of Progress

Election News
2024 Polk County Primary Election

Primary Election - Tuesday, June 4 Polls Open Election Day: 7:00a - 8:00p

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4/24/2024

Earth Day Trash Bash - Strasser Woods
Conservation Events
Earth Day Trash Bash - Strasser Woods

Join us at Iowa’s largest annual Earth Day event right here in the Des Moines Metro!

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4/26/2024

Draft of 2024 Polk County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP)
Emergency Management News
Draft of 2024 Polk County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP)

Open for Public comment till May 6th.

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4/23/2024

Kites and the Science of Flight
Conservation Events
Kites and the Science of Flight

Build simple kites as we explore the science of flight. We will discuss the remarkable adaptations birds have developed in order to take flight. We will assemble and decorate a small kite and send them aloft for a fun ending. Each registered individual will receive a kite.

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4/27/2024

Board of Supervisors News
Opioid Settlement Funds Grants Available

Des Moines, IA- Applications are now open for opioid settlement funds grants for Polk County organizations that support people with lived experience of substance use.

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4/22/2024

Wildflower Hike
Conservation Events
Wildflower Hike

Join a naturalist on a lovely spring day for a walk in the woods. We’ll take a leisurely stroll and identify and discuss some of Iowa’s native woodland wildflowers. We will also discover other plants and maybe even a coveted fungus.

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4/27/2024

Invasive Buy Back Program
Conservation News
Invasive Buy Back Program

Polk County Conservation is implementing a Callery (Bradford) Pear and Burning Bush “buy-back” program for residents of Polk County, Iowa.

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4/19/2024

Toddler Tales
Conservation Events
Toddler Tales

Let your imagination run wild with this nature-themed story time! Hear a story followed by the naturalist’s choice of an activity such as an animal encounter, puppets or a craft.

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5/2/2024

Support survivors of crime with walk, resource fair
County Attorney News
Support survivors of crime with walk, resource fair

“One of the most significant victims’ rights is the right to be heard,” Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham said.

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4/17/2024

Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Osprey Recovery
Conservation Events
Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Osprey Recovery

Like all birds of prey that were devastated by DDT in mid-20th century, Ospreys have recovered. And their presence has been delighting outdoor enthusiasts in the 21st century. Learn how Polk County Conservation contributed a pivotal role in bringing these birds to Iowa.

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5/7/2024

Veteran Affairs News
Community and Camaraderie

Connections Fair May 4, 2024

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4/11/2024

Horse Whispers in the Woods
Conservation Events
Horse Whispers in the Woods

A women’s circle of self-discovery through the intuitive and healing power of horses. This on-the-ground workshop provides a real-time experience in relationship skills and increased emotional intelligence through a partnership with the horse.

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5/9/2024