News and Announcements
Conservation Promoted
Jester Park Nature Center Closed Until Further Notice
The Jester Park Nature Center will remain closed until further notice to align with Polk County’s COVID public facility operations plan. However, the Jester Park Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center is open due to the open air nature of this facility.
Conservation Promoted
Controlled Bowhunt Application & Information
This fall, special use permits allowing bowhunters to participate in a controlled bowhunt for antlerless deer will be issued by the organizations listed at the bottom of this information.
Conservation Promoted
COVID-19 Operations Update
UPDATE: JULY 27, 2020 | Parks, trails, and campgrounds are open! Read below for the most up-to-date COVID-19 notifications.
Conservation News
Derecho Wind Storm Creates Hazards in Parks & Trails
The Derecho wind storm that blew through the state of Iowa on Monday, August 10th, left behind a substantial amount of debris in our parks and on our trails.
Conservation News
All Parks and Trails Temporarily Closed
ALL parks and trails are closed until tree damage can be removed and power can be restored.
Conservation News
Canoes Rentals at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt are Currently Suspended Due to Low Water
CANOE RENTALS AT CHICHAQUA ARE CURRENTLY SUSPENDED UNTIL WATER LEVELS ARE BACK UP
Conservation News
Lauridsen Skatepark Update
View the latest construction update on the Lauridsen Skatepark here!
Conservation News
Trestle to Trestle Trail Re-Route & Bridge Reconstruction
UPDATED: June, 4, 2020 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.
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
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.