Conservation
The Lockards: Looking Back on the Legacy of Two Caretakers
Conservation Promoted
The Lockards: Looking Back on the Legacy of Two Caretakers

The story behind the couple who gave away over 8 acres of land to Polk County Conservation.

read more

3/28/2023

2023 Prescribed Burning Season
Conservation Promoted
2023 Prescribed Burning Season

Prescribed burn season is upon us! Our Natural Resource Crews will be conducting prescribed burning in our parks and trails as weather allows this week and extending through the spring season.

read more

3/27/2023

Native Prairie Day
Conservation Events
Native Prairie Day

Celebrate National Prairie Day at Yellow Banks Park learning about Iowa’s native prairie plants and animals. Explore the prairie during a short hike followed by a hands-on, interactive presentation with one of our naturalists.

read more

6/4/2023

Jr Horse Adventures Camp (ages 5-7)
Conservation Events
Jr Horse Adventures Camp (ages 5-7)

Discover nature and horsemanship at Jester Park Equestrian Center! Our beginner-friendly camps are a great introduction to horses while exploring the outdoors.

read more

6/5/2023

Crane Meadows: 300+ Acres of Potential
Conservation News
Crane Meadows: 300+ Acres of Potential

After several years of extensive restoration work, the wildlife area is now part of Polk County Conservation's family of parks.

read more

5/18/2023

Archeology and Artifacts
Conservation Events
Archeology and Artifacts

Join a Polk County Naturalist for an overview of Iowa’s geological past and the survival of early humans in Iowa. We will take a look at authentic artifacts found at Yellow Banks Park and even try our hand at throwing an atlatl.

read more

6/6/2023

Scent Detection Dogs: The Fluffy Face of Conservation
Conservation News
Scent Detection Dogs: The Fluffy Face of Conservation

How Polk County Conservation uses scent detection dogs to aid in the restoration of Ornate Box Turtles.

read more

3/28/2023

Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Trees for Bees
Conservation Events
Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Trees for Bees

Lots of people know about the importance of flowering annuals and perennials to honey bees and native pollinators, but did you know that trees play an important role in supporting these vital insects?

read more

6/6/2023

Seeking public input on updates to Riverwalk Dog Park, new parking lot.
Conservation News
Seeking public input on updates to Riverwalk Dog Park, new parking lot.

Meeting scheduled for March 7 at 5:30 pm.

read more

2/23/2023

Planting Native: Bees, Butterflies & Benefits
Conservation Events
Planting Native: Bees, Butterflies & Benefits

Come learn the many options of planting native plants in your landscaping from flowerbeds to buffer strips. Our presenter will review the benefits to the insects and best ways to maintain a native planting for the benefit of all.

read more

6/6/2023

Seeking public input on proposed mountain bike park and related re-zoning.
Conservation News
Seeking public input on proposed mountain bike park and related re-zoning.

View virtual presentation on the project.

read more

2/17/2023

Nature Story Hour - Critter Camouflage
Conservation Events
Nature Story Hour - Critter Camouflage

Pack your picnic lunch, blanket and bring our family for an hour of nature stories and activities with a naturalist from PCC. Enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, munch your lunch, listen to a story or two and discover new natural areas with your children.

read more

6/7/2023