Public Programs

Throughout the year, Des Moines County Conservation hosts or helps with numerous public programs. Below is a list of some of those programs.

Follow Des Moines County Conservation and Starr’s Cave Nature Center on Facebook to stay up to date on all our programs and events.

Other Public Programs & Events

In addition to the events listed above, we regularly offer other special one-time events or programs. The best way to find out about our upcoming events is through our Wild River Ramblings newsletter. You may sign up to receive the newsletter electronically by emailing the main office. 

Requesting an Environmental Education Program for Your Group

Interested in having the EE staff present an environmental education program to your scout group, church group, daycare center, nursing home, home school group, etc? We are happy to do so as long as you have at least five people in your group. Programs are free for in-county groups. For out-of-county groups, we charge $1 per person plus mileage to the out-of-county location (if applicable). Additional fees may apply for programs such as the climbing wall and cross-country skiing. If you cannot come to us, oftentimes we are able to present a program at your location.

Some examples of possible programs include guided hikes in our parks, the climbing wall, creek stomping, and other topics such as mammals, owls, insects, plants, the history of Starr's Cave Park, etc. Just be sure to call us at least two weeks before the date you wish to schedule your program. Please remember that we do fill up quickly so the sooner you schedule your program with us, the better your chances are of getting your preferred date. Please note that we require at least five participants to schedule a program.