What does leadership look like when force isn't an option?
Leadership on the Landscape returns for a second field session, this time looking at leadership through the lens of water. During this device-free early morning at Starr's Cave Nature Center on August 12 from 7:00-8:30 AM, participants will explore the question, "What does leadership look like when force isn't an option?" while discovering how nature's most adaptable force can reshape the way we think about leadership.
Designed for managers, supervisors, department heads, executives, and anyone responsible for people and organizational outcomes, Leadership on the Landscape offers a refreshing alternative to traditional leadership development by taking the conversation outside.
Nothing says summer like roasting marshmallows over a campfire! Join Naturalist Shania on Friday, August 21, from 6:30–7:30 PM at the Big Hollow Campground Playground for a relaxing evening of campfire fun. Grab a s'more, enjoy a freshly made pie iron pizza, and spend time with family and friends around the fire.
Campfire treats and refreshments will be available for purchase:
S'mores – $2
Pie Iron Pizza – $4
Popsicles – $1
Bottled Water – $1
Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Register here!
Experience the beauty of the full moon from the water on Friday, August 28th, from 7:30-9:00 PM at the 4th Pumping Station.
Bring your creativity and light up the night by decorating your kayak or canoe with glow sticks, string lights, and other fun decorations as we paddle under the moonlight. Whether you keep it simple or go all out, it's sure to be a memorable evening on the water.
Cost:
$15 per person using our equipment
$10 per person bringing your own kayak or canoe
We have 4 kayaks and 4 canoes available, so registration is limited and spots will fill quickly. Reserve your place today! Register here!
Join us at JOHN H. WITTE, JR. OBSERVATORY COMPLEX on Saturday, September 5th, starting at 10:30 AM until 12:00 PM. Des Moines County Conservation is all about Monarch Butterflies! During this program, you will learn all about the beautiful Monarch Butterfly and what you can do to promote a healthy habitat for this butterfly and other pollinators in Iowa. You will also have the opportunity to participate in citizen science by tagging Monarch butterflies!
Every year, thousands of Monarch Butterflies migrate from the Midwest to overwinter in the Oyamel Fir Forests of Mexico. Citizen scientists east of the Rocky Mountains mark captured butterflies with special tags to identify individuals. When they arrive in Mexico, the tags are retrieved, giving scientists valuable information to promote the conservation of this fascinating species.
Bring the whole family and come take part in this program at JOHN H. WITTE, JR. OBSERVATORY COMPLEX 18832 152nd Avenue, Sperry, Iowa, in Big Hollow Recreation Area. Call Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808 to learn more about this free program!
Ladies 18+. Looking for a fun way to spend your Tuesday evening? Grab a friend and join the Des Moines County Conservation Ladies Adventure Group for On Target on Tuesday, September 22, from 5:30–7:00 PM at Starr's Cave Nature Center.
Challenge yourself as you learn and practice a variety of outdoor skills, including archery, hatchet throwing, tomahawks, and throwing knives. Whether you're a complete beginner or have tried these activities before, Shania, our naturalist, will provide instruction and all the equipment you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.
This program is open to women ages 18 and older. Registration is $5 per person, and space is limited to just 20 participants, so be sure to reserve your spot here. Gather your friends and join us for an evening of adventure, laughter, and trying something new!
Des Moines County was established in 1833. It's home to 5 communities and over 38,000 residents. The County is administered by a three-member Board of Supervisors who are elected for four-year terms. Other elected officials include the Attorney, Auditor, Recorder, Sheriff, and Treasurer.
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