posted on 7/16/24
Des Moines County Conservation will host a public open house at Chautauqua Park east of Mediapolis on July 24 at 6:00 PM. The event will highlight the efforts that the department is making to address the decline of pollinator species and take questions from the public.
It is said that one out of every three bites of food is made possible by the work of insect pollinators. Yet recent studies reveal a concerning decline in pollinator populations worldwide. Bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators are dwindling due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. This decline poses a significant threat to agriculture and biodiversity, potentially impacting global food production and ecosystem stability. Scientists urge immediate action to protect these vital species and ensure sustainable ecosystems.
In 2022, Des Moines County Conservation embarked on a project at Chautauqua Park that would convert the underutilized roadside park into a pollinator haven. Partnering with the local Aldo Leopold chapter of Pheasants Forever to purchase the Iowa-native seed, the department began what would be a years-long transformation of the park's ground cover from the traditional monoculture of turf grass to a pollinator haven.
Now, two years into the conversion, the park buzzes with life and color. Wildflowers such as black-eyed Susans, various coneflowers, and many others add color while bees and other insects flit around from plant to plant. What's more, the department saves over $2,200 annually just in mowing costs alone.
The open house on July 24 will feature a short program about pollinators, the department's decision to convert the park to a pollinator garden and details about the conversion process, followed by time for exploration and questions. Chautauqua Park is located at 10530 Mediapolis Rd., Mediapolis, IA 52637.
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Press Release: Public Opinion Needed for Hazard Mitigation Planning
Des Moines County, IA
PUBLIC OPINION NEEDED FOR HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING
Des Moines County, along with its cities, is collaborating with Des Moines County Emergency Management to revise the Des Moines County Hazard Mitigation Plan.
We are examining past instances of hazards, including drought, extreme heat, flooding, and severe weather events. Additionally, we are considering potential hazards such as disease outbreaks, hazardous material spills, and transportation incidents. Our goal is to develop recommended actions that enhance community safety and reduce the impact of these hazards.
A Public Opinion Survey is accessible at your local City Hall, County Auditors Office, Des Moines County Emergency Management and on the Des Moines County Emergency Management website.
We invite all residents of Des Moines County who are interested in Hazard Mitigation to share their thoughts about challenges your community has faced due to these hazards or suggestions that could improve safety in the County or City. We kindly request that surveys, comments, and opinions be submitted by July 15, 2025.
Thank you to everyone who participates. For any questions or comments, please reach out to Shannon Prado, Emergency Manager at prados@dmcounty.com or Gail Thomas, Planner, at grthomasplans@gmail.com, or call the planner at 641-233-8942.
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