Conservation - Polk County Iowa

Polk County Conservation

Get outside and discover a Polk County Conservation park or trail near you! Explore the 'Parks & Trails' tab.

Stay updated on park improvements to enhance recreation areas & wildlife habitat under the Polk County Water & Land Legacy Bond link.

Check out our many upcoming events and programs under the "Calendar" tab!

Volunteer opportunities are available year-round. Check the calendar of events for upcoming work days and events.

Take a look at our many programs and events at the Jester Park Nature Center at www.JesterParkNatureCenter.com. [Photo © IRIS22 Productions LLC]

The Polk County Conservation Board’s mission is to provide the citizens of Polk County with quality outdoor recreation, conservation education, and long term protection of Polk County’s natural heritage.

Leading You Outdoors

Quicklinks

Click the logo above for more information

Click the logo above to visit the nature center website.

Click the logo above for more information

Reserve a Campsite or Shelter Online at

News & Announcements

Nature News Hot off the Press

The January - April 2020 Nature News has arrived! Inside you will find a complete list of our events and programs from environmental education, recreation and w…

Great Western Trail Drainage Repairs

Great Western Trail repairs will continue into December at Willow Creek Golf Course. Drainage improvements are being made along the edge of the trail and two c…

Vegetation Removal in Easter Lake

The in-lake vegetation clearing in Easter Lake is currently underway. Vegetation will be cut 5’ below the water surface.

Trestle to Trestle Trail Re-Route & Bridge Reconstruction

In the spring of 2019, the bridge over Beaver Creek along the Trestle to Trestle Trail collapsed. Designs for the new Trestle to Trestle bridge can be found HER…

Upcoming Events

For more information about upcoming events for Jester Park Nature Center, see our calendar.

Saturday, February 8, 2020Ice Fishing Basics

Learn the basics of ice fishing and get some hands-on experience. Bait and poles will be provided. Participants over the age of 16 need a valid fishing license. REGISTRATION: None COST: Free AGES: All ages welcome

Saturday, February 8, 2020Kayak 101

Join a Polk County Conservation Naturalist to learn the basics of recreational kayaks. Kayaking is a popular and growing sport. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. We’ll shake off the winter blues with plenty of paddling time in the pool. A shor...

Friday, February 21, 2020 - Tuesday, February 25, 2020Northwoods Dog Sledding Adventure

Have the adventure of a lifetime on this five-day trip to northern Minnesota. One full day will be spent dog sledding with extensively trained dogs and staff. Experienced guides will teach you how to harness your dogs, steer the sled, and lead our trip into the wilderness. The remaining days wi...

Saturday, February 22, 2020Winter Hike

Join a naturalist for peaceful hike on a winter’s day. We will learn what animals do to survive the harsh Iowa winters and look for early signs of spring’s arrival. REGISTRATION: None COST: Free AGES: 5+

Saturday, February 22, 2020Antler Shed Hunt

Learn tips on finding shed antlers and then head outside to find sheds that have been hidden around the park just for you! REGISTRATION: None COST: Free AGES: All ages welcome

Saturday, March 7, 2020Tracks & Scat Hike

Join a naturalist to explore off the beaten path as we search for signs of wildlife in this beautiful forest. Dress for the weather. REGISTRATION: None COST: Free AGES: All ages welcome.

For more information about upcoming events, see our calendar.