Calendar
Events for July 2024
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
5:00 pm
Starr's Cave Park and Preserve
Hike A Park - Starr's Cave
11627 Starr's Cave RdBurlington, IA
Map to Event
July 10, 2024
5:00 pm
Des Moines County Conservation invites you to Hike A Park! This hike is open to everyone and is completely free to join! There's no need to sign up; just come to Starr’s Cave Park & Preserve and be prepared to hike up to 3.5 miles.
The next hike is scheduled on Wednesday, July 10th, at 5:00 P.M. Participants should meet at the shelter at Starr’s Cave Nature Center.
This hike will be led by our experienced naturalist, Jacklyn Goodman, who will guide you through the park and answer any questions you might have. Dress appropriately for the weather—wear comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and bring a water bottle.
For more information, feel free to contact the Starr's Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808 if you have any questions. We can't wait to see you on the trails!
For More InformationContact: Jacklyn
(319) 753-5808
Posted by: Conservation
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
7:30 pm to 9:00pm
Starr's Cave Nature Center
Disability Outreach
11627 Starr's Cave RdBurlington, IA
Map to Event
July 11, 2024
7:30 pm · 9:00pm
Join Us for a Special Night at Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve!
Date: Thursday, July 11th
Time: 7:30-9:00 P.M.
Event Details: This event is designed for individuals with physical and/or cognitive special needs. We will meet at the Starr’s Cave shelter and enjoy a relaxed trail tour, observing and identifying critters, plants, flowers, and other unique sights along the way. The walk will be an out-and-back route, so participants can leave at any time.
Please stay for s’mores after the walk!
Goals: One of the aims of this event is to connect participants with support groups.
What to Bring:
Water to stay hydrated
Weather-appropriate clothing
Weather Contingency: In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled.
Registration: Registration is required for us to make the necessary preparations. Please call the Starr's Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808 and ask for Aron to register.
We look forward to having you join us!
Contact: Aron Kehoe
(319) 753-5808
dmccores@dmcounty.com
Posted by: Conservation
Skunk River
Project Aware
State Hwy 77 & 285th StRichland, IA
Map to Event
July 7, 2024 to July 12, 2024
A project that started back in 2003 with only 83 volunteers has grown into a family of over 6,223
river enthusiast volunteers that has visited over 53 counties across Iowa, paddled 1,429 river
miles, and, most astonishing of all, removed over 977,394 pounds of trash. This year, volunteers
and organizers aim to surpass 1 million pounds of trash removed from Iowa rivers. As part of
Iowa Project AWARE’s mission to improve and protect the environment and natural resources,
organizers limit contributions to landfills by recycling 81% of all river finds, including 228 tons
of scrap metal and nearly 7,000 tires.
Volunteers will embark by canoe on the Skunk River in Richland and make their way southeast
to Burlington over the course of five days. Volunteers will load their canoes with trash by day
and tent camp and participate in educational programs by night. Speakers from around the state
are coming to present on the unique features of the Iowa River, covering topics such as birding
programs with renowned birder Kelly McKay, river and lake management with Claire Hruby
(Drake University), insights into the Iowa Mussel Blitz with Scott Gritters (Iowa DNR), and the
history of the Ho-Chunk Tribe presented by Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Bill
Quakenbush, who will also showcase his traditional dug-out canoe!
For the first half of the week, July 7-10, AWARE volunteers will camp at the beautiful Lake
Darling State Park in Brighton, Iowa. This is a fitting destination for a watershed conservation
event! Nick Young, Park Manager of Lake Darling State Park, is excited to debut the newly
constructed Jay Ding Darling additions to their interpretive trail, which will be finished just
before July.
“We would just like to say that Lake Darling is proud to host Iowa Project AWARE for 2024
efforts to clean up the Skunk River and grateful for all the hard work they've done in the past.
We're glad to help make this year's project a reality by giving staff and the many amazing
volunteers a place to stay while they work hard to make Iowa a better place”. Said Lake
Darling’s very own Nick Young.
As volunteers paddle their way down to Mount Pleasant from July 11-12, campers will stay on
the outskirts of the city at Oakland Mills Water Works Area. Caleb Waters, Executive Director of
Henry County Conservation, stated, “The Henry County Conservation Department would like to
express our support for Project AWARE as they continue to improve Iowa's water quality
through annual river cleanups. When the canoes pass through, there is an immediate and visible
difference as tires, bottles, and other debris are removed. The group also encourages long-term
change by emphasizing stewardship of public lands and a deeper understanding of a river's flora
and fauna.”
Slots are still open if you are interested in joining the cleanup efforts. Registration can be found
on our website. Busy during the day and still want to be a part of the fun? No problem! Evening
educational programs at the campgrounds are free and open to the public, with no registration
required. Please note when registering that Thursday and Friday have the most availability,
and Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are full!
No matter your degree of participation in AWARE – an evening program, one day on the river, or
the whole week of cleanup – you will be sure to walk away with a renewed sense of adventure,
love for Iowa waterways, and hundreds of new river-loving family members!
Iowa Project AWARE is coordinated by N-Compass, Inc. For more information on this event,
including the daily schedule of events and evening educational programs, please visit
www.iowaprojectaware.org.
During Iowa Project AWARE, volunteers have fun and get a little muddy as they explore an Iowa river, remove trash, and learn more about watersheds, geology, archaeology, recycling, and other natural resource topics.
The expedition not only showcases a part of Iowa, but it also offers opportunities for residents and visitors alike to connect with the river and enrich their sense of place.
Discover what to expect during a typical day of Iowa Project AWARE.
How Do I Get Involved?
Volunteers can officially join the event by paddling the river, but there are opportunities for others to experience Project AWARE as well. Educational programs are held each evening and are open to the public. These programs highlight local natural resources, history, and archaeology that make Iowa unique.
Registration is not required for the general public to attend evening programs, but it is required for those who wish to volunteer for the river cleanup itself. Tent camping is included with registration and a limited number of canoes are available.
For More Informationinfo@projectaware.org
Website
Posted by: Conservation
8:00 am to 10:30am
Big Hollow Recreation Area (Hickory Shelter)
Paddle In The Park
152nd Ave, Sperry, IA 52650Burlington, IA
Map to Event
July 18, 2024
8:00 am · 10:30am
Explore Big Hollow Lake through the eyes of a paddler. For two hours we will be hosting a free paddling event that showcases boating, and the beauty that paddling exposes. Learn some new skills, hone some existing skills, and enjoy connecting with fellow paddlers. All necessary equipment, including boats, paddles, and personal flotation devices, will be provided. No experience required!
Date: Thursday, July 18th
Time: 8:00-10:30 A.M.
Event Details: This event is designed for individuals with an interest in paddling. There are a limited number of Canoes/Kayaks. We will meet at Big Hollow Playground.
What to Bring:
Water to stay hydrated
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Weather-appropriate clothing
Sunglasses
Weather Contingency: In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled.
Registration: Registration is required. Request a ride from Starr’s Cave when you register through Aron @ (319-753-5808).
We look forward to paddling with you!
For More InformationContact: Aron Kehoe
(319) 753-5808
dmccores@dmcounty.com
Posted by: Conservation
10:00 am to 12:00pm
Dankwardt Park
Disc Golf
2305 Madison Ave, Burlington, IA 52601Burlington, IA
Map to Event
July 23, 2024
10:00 am · 12:00pm
Explore beautiful Dankwardt Park through this hands-on lesson in disc golf! No experience required! This event is open to all skill and experience levels. We will play at least 9 holes to learn some new skills, hone some existing skills, and enjoy connecting with fellow disc golfers. All necessary equipment will be provided (you may bring your own equipment). Participant giveaways, including disc golf gear and accessories.
Date: Tuesday, July 23rd
Time: 10:00 A.M. to Noon
Event Details: This free event is designed for people to learn the basics of disc golf. Instruction will be provided by local, experienced disc golfers.
What to Bring:
Water to stay hydrated
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Weather-appropriate clothing
Sunglasses
Weather Contingency: In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled.
Registration: Please RSVP by calling Starr’s Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808 - ask for Aron.
We look forward to throwing with you!
For More InformationContact: Aron Kehoe
(319) 753-5808
dmccores@dmcounty.com
Posted by: Conservation
6:00 pm to 7:00pm
Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park Open House
10530 Mediapolis Rd.Mediapolis, IA
Map to Event
July 24, 2024
6:00 pm · 7:00pm
Come see the progress of our pollinator habitat at Chautauqua Park east of Mediapolis. Learn about the decline of pollinators and the decision making process behind converting a mowed park into native prairie plants. This is your opportunity to learn more and to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns about the park with our Director.
This is a free public event. All are welcome.
For More InformationContact: Chris Lee
(319) 572-1564
leec@dmcounty.com
Posted by: Conservation
9:00 am to 12:00pm
Zion School
Bike A Trail
16495 155th aveSperry, IA
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July 25, 2024
9:00 am · 12:00pm
Join us for an exciting biking adventure along the Flint River Trail! Save the date for Thursday, July 25th, from 9:00 A.M. to noon. We'll kick off at Zion School, located 16495 155th Avenue, Sperry, IA, 52650.
To ensure everyone finds the starting point easily, meet us at 8:30 A.M. at the Starr's Cave parking lot, where staff will lead a caravan to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can catch a ride in the van to the starting point.
If you prefer to meet us directly at the trailhead, here are the directions: From Highway 61, head west on Iowa City Road for approximately 1.6 miles (the road will bend north). Turn left (west) on 155th St. and go about 2 miles. At the stop sign, turn right (north) and continue for approximately 0.3 miles. The access road will be on your left.
Registration is required so we can make the necessary preparations and arrange bikes for those who need them. We have a limited number of bikes available. To register, please call the Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808.
We plan on riding for approximately two hours with breaks. The Flint River Trail and gravel roads are mostly flat, please be aware that there is no shade. The ride will be an out-and-back, allowing participants to leave at any time. Remember to bring water to stay hydrated and dress appropriately for the weather. Your safety is our priority, so helmets are mandatory during the ride. In the case of inclement weather, the ride will be canceled. Please note that no maintenance services will be provided during the program. Hope to have you join us!
For More InformationContact: Aron Kehoe
(319) 753-5808
dmccores@dmcounty.com
Posted by: Conservation
