Temporary Park Closures and Access
*January 17, 2019 UPDATE*
Following the late recession of the Saylorville Lake flood and the recent thaw, we will be unable to remove snow from some gravel, low…
Nature News Hot Off the Press!
The January - April 2019 Nature News has arrived! Inside you will find a complete list of our events and programs from environmental education, recreation and …
For more information about upcoming events for Jester Park Nature Center, see our calendar.
Saturday, January 19, 2019Volunteer Workshop Series - Timber Stand ImprovementCalling all Park Stewards, Trail Ambassadors, and general Conservation enthusiasts! Strengthen your impact in our parks and along our trails with this workshop devoted to cultivating healthy woodlands throughout Polk County.
The goal of timber stand improvement (TSI) is to improve the structure, ...
Saturday, January 26, 2019Trumpeter Swan SoireeThe public is invited to a Trumpeter Swan Soiree, celebrating North America’s largest waterfowl species at Walnut Woods State Park on Saturday, Jan. 26th 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Programs will be given both indoors and outdoors at the Walnut Woods State Park lodge with concurrent outdoor viewing a...
Thursday, January 31, 2019Book WormsJoin our book club with Naturalist Heidi Anderson to discuss The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. Pre-registration required; deadline is January 29. Fee: $5. To register, click here.
Friday, February 1, 2019Owl ProwlAfter a brief discussion around the campfire about these flying predators of the night, we’ll go for a hike and learn how to call three different species of owls. Pre-registration required; deadline is January 30. Fee: $5. To register, click here.
Friday, February 8, 2019VTO Woodland DaysMany amazing local companies, organizations, and schools offer Volunteer Time Off (VTO) as an added benefit for their workforce. This provides an excellent opportunity to provide those within their ranks with a unique way to create positive impact within their community. If your organization offers ...
Saturday, February 9, 2019 - Tuesday, February 12, 2019Wolves, Bears & Dogsleds: A Northwoods Adventure - CanceledThis trip has bee canceled due to low registration.
Travel with us to the town of Ely in northeastern Minnesota to experience and learn about some of our wild carnivores. Co-sponsored by Story and Polk County Conservation and co-led by Dr. Jim Pease, this trip will offer adventure in the for...