Monarch Catch and Tag

Join us for a hands-on event as we work to tag monarch butterflies during their incredible migration south! By tagging these butterflies, we contribute valuable data to help track their journey and support ongoing research.

We need your help to fill our tags! This event is all about catching and tagging monarchs—no prior experience needed. We'll provide nets and tags; all you need is your enthusiasm and a love for the outdoors.

Event Details:
- Location: Big Hollow Witte Observatory Parking Lot
- Date/Time: September 14th 10:30 AM - Noon
- What to Bring: Comfortable outdoor clothing, water, and a sense of adventure! Nets will be provided.

Come join us and help make a difference as we work together to tag as many monarchs as we can!

For More Information
Contact: Jacklyn
(319) 753-5808

Posted by: Conservation

3D Archery Shoot Fundraiser for Flint River Archery Club

Whether you're looking to sharpen your archery skills for hunting season or simply enjoy shooting some foam, join us on September 15th, 2024, to help raise funds for Flint River Archery Club's youth archers! This 3D shoot is open to all ages and will feature 20 targets set along a wooded trail. Archers can choose to shoot one arrow per target (20 arrows) or upgrade for $5 more to shoot two arrows per target (40 arrows). All ages welcome!

3D Shoot Prices:
*Ages 13 & older: $10 for one arrow per target or $15 for two arrows per target.
*Ages 8-12: $5 for one arrow per target or $10 for two arrows per target.
*Ages 7 & under: Free!

Register to shoot anytime between 8 AM - 2 PM. This is a casual start 3D shoot, so archers can begin shooting the course anytime within this window and can shoot with whomever they like.
We'll have light concessions, door prizes, a fundraiser bake sale, and more! Come out and support our young archers while enjoying a fun day of shooting.
Registration table will be located next to the 300 meter shooting range. Follow the signs for the shooting ranges. 

Posted by: Conservation

Wild Game Feed

Join us for the Wild Game Feed, where you can clear out your freezer and make room for the upcoming hunting seasons! Bring your favorite wild game dish—whether it's chili, shish kabobs, sausage, jerky, potpies, or any other delicious creation. If you would like to attend , but do not have wild game meat that is ok! Call us and we can help. We'll have a firepit, Blackstone, and grills available for cooking.

Note: You can either bring your dish cooked or cook it here at the nature center. ( All food must be prepared for consumption)
Feel free to bring containers for leftovers.

This event is free, but please RSVP to ensure we have enough space for everyone.
 Call 319-753-5808 to RSVP.

We look forward to sharing a great meal and making space for new adventures!

For More Information
Contact: Marcus Nack
(319) 753-5808
Nackm@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation

Learn to Furharvest

Participants will learn basic strategies for trapping such as proper equipment, trap placement, trapping regulations and steps for preparing hides for trade.  Sessions will cover history of trapping in North America, wildlife identification, regulations and several demonstration stations. Register HERE.

For More Information
Contact: Paul Kay
(319) 759-0751
Website

Posted by: Conservation

Hike A Park - Denning Conservation Area

Des Moines County Conservation invites you to Hike A Park at Denning Conservation Area in Lee County on October 11th at 4:00 PM. Join Lee County naturalist Clay Steele to explore the reconstructed tall-grass prairie and adjacent wildlife habitat at Denning Conservation Area, a state-owned, county-managed property. Over 99.9% of Iowa’s original prairies are gone, making this a unique opportunity to experience first-hand an example of this now rare native landscape.  

This event is open to everyone, regardless of experience level—from beginners to seasoned hikers—and you’re welcome to leave the hike at any time. No registration or fee is required. Free carpooling is available; reserve your spot by calling 319-753-5808. This park is located at 1640 130th St, Donnellson, IA 52625.

Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy walking shoes, bring layers, sun protection, and a water bottle. For more information, check out the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page or contact our naturalist, Jacklyn, at 319-572-1508. We look forward to hitting the trails with you!

For More Information
Contact: Jacklyn Goodman
(319) 753-5808

Posted by: Conservation