Calendar

How To Run [In a Park]

Join us for an exciting workshop designed to boost your running performance. Our team of experienced professionals, including a marathon runner, a physical therapy assistant, and a certified running coach, will guide you through everything you need to know to become a better runner.

Program Highlights:

Training Sessions: Learn the basics of running, from proper form to effective drills. Discover stretching techniques to improve flexibility and prevent injuries.

Strength Training: Find out how to strengthen your muscles with simple exercises tailored for runners. Build the endurance and resilience needed for various running distances.

Expert Guidance: Benefit from the extensive experience of our instructors, who have coached runners at all levels. Get personalized tips to improve your running technique and performance.

Interactive Learning: Participate in hands-on sessions that mix theory with practice. Understand the best training methods and how to apply them to your own running routine.

Please RSVP at 319-753-5808

Posted by: Conservation

Shooting & Safety Basics

Date: Tuesday, August 6th 

Time: 5:30-7:30 P.M. 

Ages: 10+

Event Details: This free event is for individuals with an interest in learning shooting basics. On August 6th we will be meeting at the Big Hollow Shooting Range for some instructor led shooting. This event will be co-hosted by the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever Chapter. After our safety briefing, participants will have the opportunity to learn all about BB guns, rifles, and shotguns with hands-on experience.

What to Bring:

• Water 
• 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, (319-753-5808).

We look forward to shooting with you!

Posted by: Conservation

Shooting & Safety Basics 2

Date: Wednesday, August 14th 

Time: 5:30-7:30 P.M. 

Ages: 10+

Event Details: This free event is for individuals with an interest in learning shooting basics. On August 14th we will be meeting at the Big Hollow Shooting Range for some instructor led shooting. (This event is a continuation of Shooting Safety & Basics, August 6th). This event will be co-hosted by the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever Chapter. After our safety briefing, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their skills in BB guns, rifles, and shotguns with hands-on competition. No experience required.

What to Bring:

• Water 
• 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, (319-753-5808).

We look forward to shooting with you!

Posted by: Conservation

Hike A Park - Big Hollow Recreation Area

Des Moines County Conservation invites you to Hike A Park! The next hike will be at Big Hollow (152nd Avenue, Sperry) on Friday, August 16th, at 5:30 P.M. This hike is open to everyone and is completely free to join! Please meet at the Hickory Shelter at Big Hollow. Carpooling is available to and from Big Hollow, if you would like a ride please RSVP by calling 319-753-5808.

This hike will be led by our experienced Naturalist, Jacklyn Goodman, and our Community Outdoor Recreation Education Specialist (CORES), Aron Kehoe, 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.

If you have questions, please call Starr's Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808. We can't wait to see you on the trails!

Posted by: Conservation

Hunter Education Classroom Course

Hunter Education Classroom Course (in-person, instructor-led course). Students must register online for this course.

Mon, 19 August 2024 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (classroom program)
Thu, 22 August 2024 6:00 PM -  9:00 PM (classroom program)
Sat, 24 August 2024 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (live fire event at Big Hollow Shooting Range)

Students must attend all days to earn certification. Monday & Thursday sessions are at the First Assembly of God. Saturday's class will be held at Big Hollow Rec Area, 18851 152nd Ave, Sperry, IA 52650.

Hunter education is a mandatory program that is designed to introduce students to several life-long skills that are important to many different types of outdoor recreational opportunities. The course teaches students basic survival and first aid skills, water safety, wildlife identification, the basics of wildlife management, hunting laws and firearm/archery safety. Hunter education also stresses the importance of individual responsibility and outdoor ethics.

Iowa law requires that anyone born after January 1, 1972 must be certified in hunter education before they are eligible to purchase an Iowa hunting license.

Posted by: Conservation

Night Creek Stomp

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary nighttime adventure amidst the Flint Creek at Starr's Cave on August 21st. Prepare for an experience like no other as we invite you to join our Night Creek Stomping program. The program will be at 8:30 PM until 10:00 PM and is free to attend. Explore the hidden mysteries of the creek under the enchanting night sky, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.

Come equipped with water shoes and headlamps, you'll embark on a guided journey through the creek bed. As you traverse the cool waters, you'll discover a whole new world teeming with life after dark. Listen to the enchanting chorus of frogs, witness the mesmerizing dance of fireflies, and encounter other nocturnal creatures along the way.

This captivating adventure is suitable for all ages, providing an opportunity for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts to bond and create lasting memories. Make sure to wear proper clothing and bring a headlamp if you have one as we have a limited number for use.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness the allure of the nocturnal world and forge a deeper connection with the natural wonders that surround us. Call the Starr’s Cave Nature Center with any questions at 319-753-5808.https://fb.me/e/5rr2lYGcw

Posted by: Conservation

Hunter Education Field Day

Hunter education is a mandatory program that is designed to introduce students to several life-long skills that are important to many different types of outdoor recreational opportunities. The course teaches students basic survival and first aid skills, water safety, wildlife identification, the basics of wildlife management, hunting laws and firearm/archery safety. Hunter education also stresses the importance of individual responsibility and outdoor ethics.

Iowa law requires that anyone born after January 1, 1972 must be certified in hunter education before they are eligible to purchase an Iowa hunting license.

To attend this field day, students must complete the online course work at https://www.hunter-ed.com/iowa/. Once you've completed the online portion, print off the field day voucher and bring it with you to class.

You must register online for this field day. 

Posted by: Conservation