Calendar

Owl Prowl

January and February are active months for barred owls because it is when they begin looking for a partner. They use sound and body language to try to impress each other in hopes of finding a mate. Those who would like to learn more about owls are invited to join an Owl Prowl in February.

This year we will be holding 3 Owl Prowls (02/14, 02/21, and 02/28), they will all be from 7-8 PM and led by a naturalist. Each will begin with a short presentation regarding owls and calling for owls using recorded calls. Then participants will head out for a 2-mile round trip night hike, and if all goes as planned, owl prowlers will hear owls talk back and might even get to see one swoop silently down for a closer look.

These programs are open to anyone, but since silent listening is required, children must be accompanied by an adult. Make sure to dress for the weather and prepare for a 2-mile hike in the dark. There is no fee to join this event, but registration is required, as space is limited. To register, contact Starr’s Cave Nature Center at (319)-753-5808. Upon registration, you will receive the location details for the Owl Prowl.

Posted by: Conservation

Ranger House Cabin Ribbon Cutting & Open House

Join us for an open house and ribbon cutting at the Big Hollow Ranger House Cabin on Feb. 15 starting at 3:00 PM. 

Since it was built in the late 1970's, the 3-bedroom, 2-bath Ranger House served as the on-site residence of conservation department Park Rangers. Following a recent retirement, the house was vacated. It is now being offered to the public as a rental cabin. Department staff will celebrate its official opening on Thursday with a ribbon cutting followed by a public open house. Those wanting to rent the house-turned-rental-cabin will be able to make reservations online at MyCountyParks.com beginning on Feb. 15.

The Ranger House Cabin is located at the north end of Big Hollow Park, just east of the department's maintenance shops. 

For more information, contact Des Moines County Conservation at (319) 753-8260 or email conservation@dmcounty.com.

Posted by: Conservation

Severe Weather Spotter Course

Posted by: Emergency Management Agency

Emergency Management Commission Budget Hearing

Posted by: Emergency Management Agency

Owl Prowl

January and February are active months for barred owls because it is when they begin looking for a partner. They use sound and body language to try to impress each other in hopes of finding a mate. Those who would like to learn more about owls are invited to join an Owl Prowl in February.

This year we will be holding 3 Owl Prowls (02/14, 02/21, and 02/28), they will all be from 7-8 PM and led by a naturalist. Each will begin with a short presentation regarding owls and calling for owls using recorded calls. Then participants will head out for a 2-mile round trip night hike, and if all goes as planned, owl prowlers will hear owls talk back and might even get to see one swoop silently down for a closer look.

These programs are open to anyone, but since silent listening is required, children must be accompanied by an adult. Make sure to dress for the weather and prepare for a 2-mile hike in the dark. There is no fee to join this event, but registration is required, as space is limited. To register, contact Starr’s Cave Nature Center at (319)-753-5808. Upon registration, you will receive the location details for the Owl Prowl.

Posted by: Conservation

Owl Prowl

January and February are active months for barred owls because it is when they begin looking for a partner. They use sound and body language to try to impress each other in hopes of finding a mate. Those who would like to learn more about owls are invited to join an Owl Prowl in February.

This year we will be holding 3 Owl Prowls (02/14, 02/21, and 02/28), they will all be from 7-8 PM and led by a naturalist. Each will begin with a short presentation regarding owls and calling for owls using recorded calls. Then participants will head out for a 2-mile round trip night hike, and if all goes as planned, owl prowlers will hear owls talk back and might even get to see one swoop silently down for a closer look.

These programs are open to anyone, but since silent listening is required, children must be accompanied by an adult. Make sure to dress for the weather and prepare for a 2-mile hike in the dark. There is no fee to join this event, but registration is required, as space is limited. To register, contact Starr’s Cave Nature Center at (319)-753-5808. Upon registration, you will receive the location details for the Owl Prowl.

Posted by: Conservation

Hike A Park - Eden Park

We're thrilled to announce our Hike A Park series for spring 2024! Des Moines County Conservation is teaming up with Louisa County Conservation, Lee County Conservation, and Van Buren County Conservation for these adventurous hikes. Our first hike will take place on February 29th at Eden Park in Louisa County from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

These hikes are open to everyone and are completely free to join. There's no need to sign up; just come to the park prepared to hike between 1 to 3 miles. If you're interested in carpooling, give us a call at the nature center. Carpooling is free; we just need to know in advance! All the hikes will take place on Thursdays, though the times will vary.

Each hike will be led by experienced naturalists who will guide you through the park and answer any questions you might have. Dress appropriately for the weather—wear comfortable walking shoes, layers for cooler days, sun protection, and bring a water bottle. For more information, feel free to contact the Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808 or reach out to our Naturalist, Jacklyn, at 319-572-1508. We can't wait to see you on the trails!

Posted by: Conservation