Earth Month Tree Planting at Fort Des Moines Park

CANCELED: THURSDAY, APRIL 24 @ 4 - 7pm

Volunteers will make a positive impact by planting tree seedlings within Fort Des Moines Park where recent restoration efforts have focused on bringing back the native forest habitat. In 2023/2024, fifty acres of invasive species were removed from this area of degraded timber. In summer 2024, over 200 goats grazed the area to further get rid of and naturally manage invasive species. After the success of these efforts we are ready for next steps to help bring back valuable native trees to restore this local ecosystem.

Volunteers at these events will be taught about the benefits of native trees, how to properly plant trees, and how their efforts further our restoration goals at Fort Des Moines Park. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for shifts that best fit their schedule. We understand schedules may not perfectly align - volunteers are welcome to come and go as needed.

Upcoming Dates:
Thursday, April 24th @ 9am to 12pm & 1pm to 4pm 

Friday, April 25th @ 9am to 12pm & 1pm to 3pm

Volunteers should meet at Shelter #1

Project Funding: This project is in part funded by the Polk County Water & Land Legacy Bond which was used to leverege a Urban State Wildlife grant from the Iowa DNR. Funding for the Iowa DNR grants comes from the US Fish & Wildlife Service.

The Urban State Wildlife grant has helped to fund 50 acres of forestry mowing in 2023/2024 and goat grazing in summer 2024. In 2025, timber stand improvement and eventually an emphemeral seeding (2025/2026) will help to bring back native habitat to support wildlife in this urban park.

Tree planting will directly bring back native trees to this forest area that have numerous ecological benefits including wildlife habitat.

ACTIVITY: Tree Planting - trees will be seedlings

ECOLOGICAL IMPACT AREAS: Woodland ecosystem, wildlife habitat, water quality, soil health

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REGISTRATION: Required

By registering for this event, I acknowledge I am filling an open position. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to attend, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this event.

DEADLINE: Register by noon the day prior. If the event is at capacity, contact Volunteer Coordinators to inquire about participation.

COST: Free

GROUPS ALLOWED: Yes

AGES: All ages welcome. No experience necessary and all training provided.

WHAT TO BRING: It is recommended to dress for the weather. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Bring a pair of gloves, if you have them - gloves provided for those without. In an effort to promote sustainability at this event, please bring a refillable water bottle.

Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.

LOCATION DETAILS: Fort Des Moines Park | Park Map

CONTACT: ConservationVolunteers@polkcountyiowa.gov

Polk County Conservation strives to host inclusive, accessible events and meetings that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-323-5300 or pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.