Ask a PCC Naturalist
We were at the Des Moines Farmer's Market on August 5, and you had questions for our naturalists! Polk County Conservation Naturalist, Heidi has your answers. …
Closures and Reroutes
Below are current park and trail closures and reroutes:
Great Western Trail Re-route Begins on July 28
Development work near the Great Western Trail will resul…
Nature News- Hot Off the Press!
The newest edition of Nature News is now available online! Find out what is going on in your favorite park and what events and programs are taking place Septem…
Saturday, August 19, 2017Insect HuntFrom ladybugs to butterflies, we’ll explore the fascinating world of insects. The program will feature a large insect collection and an insect hunt. Nets will be provided.
Monday, August 21, 2017Solar Eclipse PartyFor the first time in almost 40 years a total solar eclipse will be visible in the continental United States. Here in Des Moines, a partial eclipse covering most but not all of the sun will occur. A partial solar eclipse is dangerous to look at without protection for your eyes. Stop by Fort Des Moin...
Tuesday, August 22, 2017Foraging for MushroomsThis program will cover proper Identification of your most basic edible mushrooms of Iowa. We will also focus on what time of year to start looking for specific species of Mushrooms. Proper meal preparation will be discussed and recipes will be shared. Once the informational aspect of th...
Tuesday, August 22, 2017Nature Friends - Nutty SquirrelsJoin a naturalist in a nature adventure for 3-5 year olds and an adult! We will explore a different nature topic each evening through stories, sharing time, guided exploration, and art activities. Snacks will be provided. This program is sponsored by West Des Moines Parks and Recreation.
Particip...
Saturday, August 26, 2017 - Sunday, August 27, 2017Pedaler's JamboreeThe Pedaler's Jamboree is a music festival created for bicycle riders and non-riders alike! Get a ticket for a weekend bicycle ride full of adventure or a non-rider ticket for the main stage festivities in Bondurant on August 26th. We will be visiting the Chichaqua Valley Trail (CVT) and it'...
Saturday, August 26, 2017Monarch Tagging Come learn about one of the world’s most talked about butterflies and what makes them so unique! We will also try our hand at catching and tagging monarchs as they migrate back to their winter home in Mexico.