Conservation

Senior Programs & Trips

OWLS - Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors

Looking for an excuse to get out of the house, make some new friends, and learn about the exciting world of nature? Join us for cookies and coffee social starting at 10:30 and program at 11:00am.

  • Date(s): These programs are held the first Tuesday of each month.
  • Time: 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Jester Park Nature Center
  • Registration: None
  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: 12+

September 5, 2023 - Polk County Conservation Volunteer Program

From harvesting prairie seed, counting sandhill cranes, collecting tons of trash…literally!…to improving hiking trails and removing invasive species, Polk County Conservation’s volunteers enable us to go above and beyond to care for our parks. Learn about the exciting improvements and projects our volunteers are working on and the many ways you too can get involved.

October 3, 2023 - DNR Urban Fisheries Program

In 2016 the Iowa DNR initiated the Community Fishing Program to partner with cities and counties to provide quality fishing opportunities within our more densely populated areas in the state. This program as continued to grow, as more urban development happens.  For instance, in 2016 in the Des Moines metro we had identified approximately 60 public fishing opportunities for anglers to utilize that were owned by cities and conservation boards. Seven years later, we are approaching 130 local public fishing areas in the metro. In this presentation you will learn about the Community Fishing Program and how it is partnering with cities and counties around the state to provide quality, local fishing opportunities. 

November 7, 2023 - Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Since their founding in 1979, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation has helped protect over 190,000 acres of Iowa prairies, woodlands, lakes and rivers and blazed the way for Iowa’s trails. Chances are, you’ve already visited an INHF project. Communications Assistant Sydney Algreen-Hunter will cover this statewide nonprofit’s main areas of focus with an emphasis on permanent land protection, multi-use trail establishment and active land stewardship. 

December 5, 2023 - Iowa Woodpeckers

Ray and Margaret Harden will share photos and information about the six woodpeckers of Iowa and the two species that have been reported as accidental occurrences in the state. They will discuss the unique anatomy of woodpeckers that allows them to hammer into trees to obtain their food. They will also discuss the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and a personal story about the extinct ivory bill.

Senior Bus Tours 2023

Step on board with Polk County Conservation as we explore the beauty of Iowa and Iowan hospitality throughout the state. Bring a sense of adventure and desire to reconnect with Iowa’s natural resources, while making new friends. Check out the 2023 Bus Trip brochure to learn more.

Senior Bus Trip registration opens up on March 25, 2023 at 8am.