News and Announcements
Conservation Promoted
Art Adventures
Go on an Art Adventure – visit parks and trails in Polk County with your treasure map in hand following clues to beautiful art pieces in nature! In celebration of Art Week (June 19-26)!
Conservation Promoted
COVID-19 Operations Update
UPDATE: MAY 27, 2020 | Parks, trails, and campgrounds are open! Read below for the most up-to-date COVID-19 notifications.
Conservation Promoted
Online Public Meeting Des Moines River Activation & Possible Dam Modification Project
The Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, is hosting an online public meeting for the Des Moines River Activation and Possible Dam Modification Project.
Conservation News
Nature News Hot Off the Press
Hot off the press – the newest edition of Nature News is now available online! Find out what is going on in your favorite park and what events and programs are taking place May through August here.
Conservation News
Relying on Nature Through Polk County Conservation
While the way we interact with others may be a little different right now in our world, the importance of getting outdoors and interacting with nature remains the same. Let nature become your refuge during this difficult time.
Conservation News
50 Years of Earth Day
In honor of Earth Day, we are asking park patrons to bring a garbage bag and gloves to their favorite park or trail and help us keep these areas clean and prevent this waste from entering nearby waterways.
Conservation News
Remove Garlic Mustard & Make Delicious Pesto!
Some invasives are actually quite tasty with the right recipe - like garlic mustard. Help us remove this invasive and feed yourself at the same time! Gather up what you want, take your harvest home, and make garlic mustard pesto.
Conservation News
Spring Caution on Wet Trails
Spring rains and early morning condensation creates slick conditions on trails especially near intersections.... Cyclists should be extra cautious when these conditions are present. Stay safe and enjoy the trails!
Conservation News
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. A reroute along the trail has been established until the new bridge is constructed.