During the summer recreation season, Polk County Conservation staff are regularly monitoring the water in Easter Lake, taking samples weekly for testing. Every week on Thursday or Friday, weekly results will be posted here.
About ten years ago, much community attention and public dialogue was swirling around the topic of Iowa’s water quality. Polk County Conservation (PCC) launched its water quality monitoring program in 2015 to fill the data gap.
In its fourth year, the overwhelming popular music series is adding a new location and three more shows! Relax to the rhythm of incredible, local music and nature's own melody in the middle of two beautiful Polk County Parks.
Polk County Conservation manages more than 16,000 acres of prairies, wetlands, woodlands, trails, and parks! Come learn more about your local parks and programs while we will peek into conservation past, present and future.
Established in September of 2016, Horses Helping Heroes (H3) is an Equine-Assisted Activity Learning and Therapy (EAAL/T) program offered free of charge to military Veterans, Active Service Members, First Responders, and National Guard Members.
Come lend a hand in our native pollinator and rain gardens and help make our gardens thrive this season!
A collaborative restoration effort is now underway at Brown's Woods. Under the guidance of Dr. Keith Summerville, a professor at Drake University, and with support of researchers, students, and community volunteers, the state's largest urban woodland is growing strong.
If you have a young experience paddler looking for a challenge, then this camp is for them. We will explore two different Central Iowa rivers and test their paddling skills. We’ll also learn about river ethics, safety, geology, ecology, and take time to just play.
Polk County Conservation is implementing a Callery (Bradford) Pear and Burning Bush “buy-back” program for residents of Polk County, Iowa.
Ever wonder what goes on at the Jester Park Nature Center after dark? This indoor campout will let you explore behind the scenes and sleep out in the exhibit hall. This overnight experience will include games, a night hike, and cooking dinner over the fire.
From groundbreakings for new projects to ribbon cuttings for completed parks, this summer will be filled with new beginnings and new spots for you to explore.
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.