Nature News | January - April 2018

January – April 2018

Nature News P O L K C O U N T Y C O N S E R VAT I O N

CONTENTS PCC News pages 2-8

Bond Updates page 3 Public Programs pages 9-11 Volunteer Opportunities page 12 Equestrian Center Calendar page 13 Map page 14 Great Outdoors Foundation page 15

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2018 N AT U R E P R O G R A M S A N D N E W S

Volunteers Needed at the Nature Center!

Opening in late summer of 2018, the highly anticipated Jester Park Nature Center will serve as central Iowa’s prominent gateway to the outdoors, providing individuals of all ages the platform from which to get outside and into nature. We are seeking dynamic volunteers to fulfill a much-needed niche at the nature center which affords volunteers the opportunity to give back to the community in a special way. Whether you are seeking an inspiring setting in which to give back to the outdoor community; are a college student looking to fulfill internship credit hours; a senior adult looking to enjoy retirement; or a teacher wishing to spend a summer, you are invited to share your unique talents and passion for the outdoors with park visitors entering into their adventure at Jester Park.

Volunteers will provide Jester Park Nature Center visitors with information regarding upcoming events and programs as well as registration, check out rental items and equipment and sell merchandise. Shifts are available year-round on both weekdays and weekends.

Recruitment is currently taking place for those interested in donating their time and talents. Contact Melissa Schmeling at 515-323-5331 or melissa.schmeling@polkcountyiowa.gov to learn more about this upcoming opportunity. Training sessions are anticipated to begin in May of 2018.

PCC NEWS

Message from the Director: Honoring the Relationships Polk County Conservations manages over 14,000 acres of public land in Polk County. The majority of this land and water is open to consumptive uses, such as hunting, fishing, and trapping. It is surprising to some that in Iowa’s most urbanized county, we have excellent resources for these traditional uses.

I grew up on a small acreage in southwestern Minnesota. My father taught me respect for guns, wildlife, and tradition. My mother was a big fishing enthusiast, if you call fishing catching a hundred bullheads in a day out of a mud hole lake (and I do!). I trapped pocket gophers and “stripees” (thirteen-lined ground squirrels) that the county actually had a bounty on at the time. I grew up respecting, educating myself, pursuing, and yes, using and eating wildlife.

This can sometimes be a sensitive subject among nature enthusiasts in an urbanized setting. I understand and empathize, yet I also understand that this is a legitimate and established use of our public lands. Hunters, anglers, and trappers are the reason we have so much land and opportunities – they have paid for much of this land and were, and are, some of our strongest conservationists.

We are fortunate to have the quantity of public lands that we do, and there is plenty of room for all in our natural areas in Polk County.

See you on the trail!

Rich Leopold, PCC Director

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PCC NEWS

The Latest

Regular Polk County Water & Land Legacy Updates TRAILS Polk County Conservation Board Members: Jill Altringer, Grimes Diana Baratta, Ankeny Jim Cataldo, Des Moines Tom Levis, West Des Moines Lance Northway, Runnells

Executive Director: Richard Leopold Deputy Director: Douglas Romig

Nature News

Volume 18, Issue 1 Editors Heidi Anderson, Naturalist Shae Rossetti, Outreach Tech Administration Office: 11407 NW Jester Park Dr. Granger, IA 50109 515-323-5300 pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov www.leadingyououtdoors.org Hours: M-F, 8 am - 4:30 pm Follow us on:

Mark C. Ackelson Trail For the complete update on the Mark C. Ackelson Trail, view page 5.

PARKS

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt Wetland construction at the former Mendenhall and Freeland properties began in mid-November with work to be completed by spring of 2018.

Natural Resources operations will be relocated to Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt from Jester Park.

Their headquarters will be built in the northwest corner of the intersection at NE 112th Street and NE 118th Avenue in Maxwell, Iowa. Design work for the Natural Resources headquarters will be finalized and go out to bid this winter.

Easter Lake Park For the complete update on Easter Lake Park restoration progress, view page 5.

Jester Park Equestrian Center The Equestrian Center has completed two major construction renovations that are assisting with better quality care for equines, more stringent control methods for storm water runoff, and more operational efficiency for the Equestrian Center as a whole. Fencing of an additional 26-acres of pasture land to the south of the Equestrian Center will allow for more grazing opportunities and healthier conditions for the horses that call JPEC home. Additionally, renovations and remodeling to the out lots directly behind the main facility will allow for cleaner conditions, easier monitoring of storm water runoff and filtration check systems, and better manure management controls. Overall, these two projects are expected to decrease operational costs an estimated 10%-15% in the upcoming years.

Jester Park Nature Center Construction Update In spring of 2017, site grading began on the Jester Park Nature Center, the building site was excavated, footings were poured for the foundation and the parking lot and new kiosk area were completed.

The concrete foundation walls, lower floor, and elevator shaft have now been completed. Electric lines, water supply, and sewer lines were placed and work on the exterior of the new Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center began in October.

The construction and installation of the many building components including walls, electric, plumbing, heating & cooling systems, doors & windows, and a myriad of other items is in progress.

Work will continue through the winter and spring as we move toward completion in the summer of 2018.

Yellow Banks Park Upcoming park improvements efforts will be focused on renovations to the newly acquired property on the east side of Yellow Banks Park. This work will include the finalization of cabin design plans, determining the future use of the existing house and storage building, finalizing the pond design and beginning the implementation of the pond restoration. The removal of invasive species and timber stand improvement around the property will also take place.

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PCC NEWS

Thank you!

Principal Financial - Granite donation During recent renovations on the Principal Financial corporate campus in Des Moines, several tons of granite were donated to Polk County Conservation. The granite will be repurposed for several projects in our parks.

Cameron Spiller - Fossils donation Over the last 50 years, Cameron Spiller, collected fossils and taught Iowans about them. He donated a large portion of his life’s fossil collection to Polk County Conservation.

We can’t wait to share them with students during our programming!

Yellow Banks Park • Place along the shoreline to support the pond restoration • Place in the park for people to sit and enjoy the scenery • Form walkways around the pond • Create fire pits Easter Lake Park • Apply to areas in need of trail and shoreline restoration • Use to support trail access and viewing Jester Park • Build shoreline and stream bank crossings • Create places to lie down/sit for meditation and reflection near the new nature center • Create stairs/platforms near the Jester Park Lodge

Studer Family - Taxidermy donation

T-shirts Available!

Park Packs Polk County Conservation and the Great Outdoors Foundation have teamed up with Twin Forks Trading Company to offer customized Polk County park and trail t-shirts.

Proceeds from the sale of these shirts benefit outdoor education and recreation projects in Polk County.

Go to Twinforkstradingco.com, select Collections, choose Polk County Conservation and order yours today!

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Lee Studer supported his family for a number of years through his taxidermy business. Lee has since passed away and left behind an extensive taxidermy collection.

Since Lee and his family spent a lot of time at Jester Park over the years, his family contacted us to see if we had any interest in the collection. Thanks to the Studer family we added 20 taxidermy mounts to our collection which will be used for education or will be on display at the new Jester Park Nature Center.

Nature-Themed Backpacks FREE two week checkout!

These backpacks come with a field guide and a variety of activities and fun facts. Themes include: Birds, Trees, Insects, Animals of Iowa, Geology, Life in a Pond, Wildflowers & Plants, Animals of the Night, Prairies, Geocaching, and Outdoors Skills. For more information, contact Lori at (515) 323-5380 or lori.foresman-kirpes@polkcountyiowa.gov.

PCC NEWS

Easter Lake Park - Capital Project Update The Easter Lake renovation is making progress toward our common goal. It is a complicated project involving but not limited to restoring the watershed, cleaning up the lake waters, renovating the fishery, and making multiple improvements to the park including a multi-use trail, sediment basins, shoreline restoration, boat ramp rebuild, invasive species control, dam infrastructure repair, and replacement of the Evergreen Avenue bridge and road located on the dam. Additionally, the feasibility of a Lodge facility is also being explored.

As with any multi-year, multi-objective project there are certain actions that have to take place before others can proceed. There are periods of time when the public doesn’t see much progress happening such as this summer. In order to do much of the on-shore work, such as the new trail segments and bridge and road replacement, the lakebed needed to be dry so it could be accessed by heavy equipment. This drying process took place throughout most of 2017.

The last phase of the Easter Lake renovation project includes additional in-lake dredging from shallow and inaccessible areas, reconstruction of the shoreline, fish habitat installation, and the completion of final phase of the Mark C. Ackelson Trail which includes a 445-foot long bridge across the west arm of the lake. This work will begin this winter and extend through the fall of 2018. Water will begin refilling the lake by the end of 2018.

By the spring of 2019, Easter Lake Park will feature a 6.2-mile trail that circles the lake and a newly renovated 172-acre lake that will provide scenic views, habitat for wildlife, and a hub for many outdoor recreation activities such as boating, paddling, fishing, and swimming.

PCC Advisory Committee Member Applications Now Being Accepted The Polk County Conservation Advisory Committee was established in 2007.

Approximately 25 members serve on the committee with a goal of providing professional feedback to Polk County Conservation staff and board members on various planning and programming issues.

The Committee meets 3-4 times per year. Members are asked to offer their ideas and professional expertise on discussion items, gather public perception on various topics, and conduct external research in order to accomplish committee goals.

Polk County Conservation is now accepting membership applications to be a part of this advisory committee. New members will begin their term in January of 2018. If you are interested in serving on the Advisory Committee, please contact Kami Rankin at (515) 323-5363 or kami.rankin@ polkcountyiowa.gov.

Connecting Individuals to the Outdoors January 21 @ 9am at Chichaqua Longhouse

The National Wild Turkey Federation in partnership with Polk County Conservation are offering a yearlong program is designed to create a community and support group, where individuals can engage with and learn from experienced hunter mentors in a safe, low stress environment. Inexperienced participants are encouraged and welcome! Registration is $135, deadline January 8. For more information, go to www.leadingyououtdoors.org.

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PCC NEWS

Jester Park Golf Course Updates Coming Soon Polk County Conservation and C-Corporation will soon invest $3.5 million dollars into the Jester Park Golf Course. Plans include replacement of the aging irrigation system, renovations to #11 and #17 holes, and expansion of the clubhouse. Due to these planned capital improvements, Jester Park Golf Course closed for the season on October 29, 2017, so work could begin in earnest.

Midwest Irrigation was awarded the golf course renovation contract. Architectural firm, Studio Melee, is finalizing the clubhouse renovation design plans which includes indoor seating for 145 people, a full-service kitchen, and renovated restrooms.

Other improvements include installation of an 18-hole miniature golf course that will be located along NW 118th Avenue just west of the Driving Range building. C-Corporation which currently manages the City of Des Moines public golf courses (Blank, Bright/Grandview and Waveland) took over management and maintenance of the course on November 1, 2017. This project is being fully funded by C-Corporation.

One of the benefits going into the 2018 golf season, besides the capital renovations, is that Season Golf Passes will be honored at Jester Park and the three City of Des Moines golf courses. Season pass rates and cart fees will remain the same and staff is recommending that greens fees be increased by $1.00 across the board as fees have not been adjusted since 2014.

Welcome Jill Altringer to the Board!

Jill Altringer was appointed to the Polk County Conservation Board in October 2017.

Jill has resided in Grimes since 2001, and has been a member of the Grimes City Council since 2006. She is an attorney, practicing in Governmental Relations at the Iowa Statehouse for the last 15 years. Jill loves exploring the outdoors with her husband and four children, and is excited to be able to continue the great work that the Conservation Board has put in place. Her goal in community involvement is to strive every day to make a positive difference.

We look forward to serving you and are excited to showcase the improvements to Jester Park Golf Course and Learning Center. If you would like more information about the golf course renovations, please contact Deputy Director, Doug Romig at doug.romig@polkcountyiowa.gov or (515) 323-5355.

Rental Skis and Snowshoes Available Interested in trying cross-country skiing or snowshoeing this winter? If so, consider renting a pair from Polk County Conservation. Cross-country skis are sized mainly for adults. Snowshoes are sized for adults and children, with a weight range of 40-250 pounds. Equipment can be reserved in advance by calling (515) 323-5339. Equipment must be picked up and dropped off at Jester Park during normal office hours, MondayFriday, 8 am - 4 pm.

Cross-country ski rental (skis, boots, poles): $10/day Snowshoe rental (snowshoes only): $10/day 6

PCC NEWS

Spotlight on the Sycamore Trail Mountain bike, trail run, hike, cross-country ski or simply enjoy the abundant wildlife and views of the Des Moines River that will motivate you to find out what’s around the next bend. Made up of 7+ miles of single-track, the Sycamore Trail is located between Johnston and Des Moines along the west side of the Des Moines River.

The trails throughout Sycamore are flowing single-track that weave through old growth forest along the west side of the Des Moines River. The trails are generally easy riding and many families frequent them on foot. Because Sycamore is made up of soft dirt trails, motorized vehicles, horseback riding and camping are not permitted.

Polk County Conservation has partnered with Central Iowa Trail Association (CITA) to help maintain Sycamore’s trails. Natural erosion combined with scores of bike tires tearing up loose single-track create the need for constant trail maintenance. Due to the vegetation and tree cover, it is best to not ride soft trails when it’s wet.

Get Involved For more information on how you can volunteer to help upkeep Sycamore Trail, visit www.centraliowatrails.com or “Like” CITA’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on trail stewardship days and more!

Sycamore Trailhead Access:

• North access is one mile east of Beaver Avenue in Johnston on NW 66th Avenue.

• South access is at the River Place office complex parking lot on Euclid Avenue in Des Moines.

Photo: Steph W.

Photo: Shawn S.

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PCC NEWS

Youth Waterfowl Hunt at Chichaqua a Success

Current River Kayak Trip May 21-25 Montauk State Park near Salem, Missouri

The 9th annual Mentored Youth Waterfowl Hunt was held at Chichaqua on September 23, 2017. It was our best attended event and we maxed out our capacity with 16 youth hunters.

Introductions, prizes and a hunter’s breakfast in the Longhouse preceded the hunt. A nice push of birds into the area the day before, gave most of the youth the chance to harvest at least one duck or goose. We are grateful to our mentors and conservation officers who give generously of their time to help guide budding youth hunters. Thank you to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Ducks Unlimited, Scheels, Mills Fleet Farm, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Randy Munson for making this event possible!

Join Polk County Conservation naturalists on this five-day paddling adventure on the Current River in Missouri. The crystal clear Current River moves through stunning Ozark landscapes, and features many caves and large springs along the way. Rated a Class 1 rapid, the Current River is enjoyable and safe for both beginners and experts. We’ll paddle three days and camp three nights. Meals will be prepared for you on the river and by the campfire while you relax and take in the scenery.

• Fee: $450; includes transportation (15 passenger van), lodging, most equipment, kayak rentals, and all food except two meals while traveling.

• Departure Jester Park at 7:00 a.m.

• Minimum age 21; must have prior paddling experience and be in good physical condition.

• Participants need to bring a tent, sleeping bag, personal items, cash for souvenirs and meals while traveling.

• Registration deadline is April 20. Registration for past kayak trip participants will be accepted after January 1, 2018 to provide opportunity for new participants to register. ALL registered individuals must attend and pass a mandatory paddling proficiency test prior to the trip. Tests will be available at Jester Park, Discovery Pond on April 17 at 10am and 6pm or April 19 at 2pm. Registered participants are responsible for contacting Lewis at lewis.major@polkcountyiowa.gov to schedule a date/time. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of the registration and the trip fee will be refunded.

Polk County Conservation Youth Corps in 2018 Polk County Conservation is ramping up for the 2018 Summer Youth Corps program! The Polk County Conservation Youth Corps (PCCYC) is a PAID non-residential summer work program that provides youth, ages 15-18 the opportunity to work on field based, service-learning projects in county parks and trails. More information can be found at leadingyououtdoors.org under the Youth Corps tab.

SUMMER SESSIONS • Session 1: June 4, 2018 – June 29, 2018 • Session 2: July 9, 2018 – August 3, 2018 PROGRAM POSITIONS • Crew Leader (19+ Years of Age| Compensation TBD) Supervise, motivate and encourage up to 10 crew members. Instruct crew members in safe operation of tools and equipment. Communicate effectively while taking a leadership initiative. Serve as a positive role model. Foster a strong work ethic. Teach environmental awareness and outdoors skills.

• Crew Member (15 – 18 Years of Age | $200/Week) Commit to work hard in a variety of outdoor settings and conditions. Driven to acquire new skills. Accept new challenges. Become a vital asset to the crew.

Develop an understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

(No experience necessary.)

Crew Leader Application Deadline: January 26, 2018 at 4:30 PM (CT) Crew Member Application Deadline: March 19, 2018 at 4:30 PM (CT) For questions or more information contact: Erika Schoenberg or Melissa Schmeling at youthcorps@polkcountyiowa.gov 8

PROGRAMS

January - April Calendar

For detailed program descriptions and specific meeting locations, visit www.leadingyououtdoors.org or call (515) 323-5339.

JANUARY 2 Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Early Nesting Iowa Owls Come learn about our early nesting owls, some owl characteristics, owl visitors to Iowa, and meet a non-releasable education screech owl from SOAR - Saving Our Avian Resources.

Tuesday, 11am-12pm, Jester Park Lodge Register for lunch only; deadline is December 29. Fee: $10.

6 Ice Fishing Learn the basics of ice fishing and get some hands-on experience.

Bait and poles will be provided.

Saturday, 1-3pm, Thomas Mitchell Park, Pond FREE. No registration required. Participants over the age of 16 need a valid fishing license.

13 Snowshoe Hikes Try snowshoeing out on the trails. Wear warm waterproof boots.

Class will be canceled without snow.

Saturday, 10-11:30am, Thomas Mitchell Park, Pond Saturday, 1-2:30pm, Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3 Pre-registration required; deadline is January 11. Minimum age 6.

Fee: $10 (includes snowshoes).

19 Owl Prowl Bundle up and join a naturalist for a campfire program to learn about owls.

Friday, 6-7pm, Yellow Banks Park, Tent Camping Area FREE. No registration required.

20 Cross-Country Ski Basics Learn the basics of cross-country skiing and practice your skills on the trails. Class will be canceled without snow.

Saturday, 10am-12pm, Raccoon River Park Nature Lodge Pre-registration required; deadline is January 17. Minimum age 12.

Fee: $10 (includes skis, boots and poles).

25 Book Worms Join our book club with Naturalist Heidi Anderson to discuss The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan.

Thursday, 7-8:30pm, Plot Twist Bookstore, 502 N Ankeny Blvd.

Pre-registration required; deadline is January 22. Fee: $5.

FEBRUARY 1 Full Moon Hike Explore the wonder and beauty of Jester Park at night under a full moon.

Thursday, 6:45-7:45pm, Jester Park, Shelter #5.

FREE. No registration required. Dress for the weather.

3 Cross-Country Ski Basics Learn the basics of cross-country skiing and practice your skills on the trails. Class will be canceled without snow.

Saturday, 10am-12pm, Chichaqua Longhouse Pre-registration required; deadline is January 31. Minimum age 12.

Fee: $10 (includes skis, boots and poles).

6 Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Prairie Restoration Keith Summerville, professor of Environmental Science & Assistant Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at Drake University will share lessons learned during his 15 years of prairie restoration research at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt.

Tuesday, 11am-12pm, Jester Park Lodge Register for lunch only; deadline is February 2. Fee: $10.

10 Ice Fishing Learn the basics of ice fishing and get some hands-on experience.

Bait and poles will be provided.

Saturday, 1-3pm, Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #1 FREE. No registration required. Participants over the age of 16 need a valid fishing license.

17 Antler Shed Hunt Learn tips on finding shed antlers and then head outside to find sheds that have been hidden around the park just for you!

Saturday, 1-2:30pm, Thomas Mitchell Park Shop FREE. No registration required.

22 Book Worms Join our book club with Naturalist Heidi Anderson to discuss Silent Spring by Rachel Carson.

Thursday, 7-8:30pm, Plot Twist Bookstore, 502 N Ankeny Blvd.

Pre-registration required; deadline is February 19. Fee: $5.

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PROGRAMS

FEBRUARY (continued) 24 Winter Hike Join us on a peaceful winter hike as we focus on what animals do to survive winter.

Saturday, 1-2pm, Brown’s Woods FREE. No registration required.

25 Bald Eagle Watch Stop by the Saylorville Visitor’s Center to learn about the bald eagle, then venture outside to view them in their natural habitat.

Jester Park Lodge will host a live eagle used for education. Hourly programs start at 1 pm.

Sunday, 12-4 pm, Saylorville Lake and Jester Park Lodge FREE. No registration required.

MARCH 1 Full Moon Hike Explore the wonder and beauty of Fort Des Moines Park at night under a full moon.

Thursday, 6:30-7:30pm, Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3 FREE. No registration required.

3 Indoor Archery Class will focus on form and safety, giving participants basics that will get them safely shooting and offer a general feel for archery with a compound bow.

Saturday, 10-11:30am, Jester Park Equestrian Center Pre-registration required; deadline is February 28. Ages 12 and up.

Fee: $5.

3 Ice Fishing Learn the basics of ice fishing and get some hands-on experience.

Bait and poles will be provided.

Saturday, 1-3pm, Jester Park, Shelter #5 FREE. No registration required. Participants over the age of 16 need a valid fishing license.

6 Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Bird Migration From warblers to terns to eagles, birds are some of the world’s greatest travelers. Migration, or the seasonal movement of an animal from one region to another and back, is an amazing life history event critical to the lives of many avian species.

Tuesday, 11am-12pm, Jester Park Lodge Register for lunch only; deadline is March 2. Fee: $10.

13 Survivor Camp Spend a day having fun and staying active. We will try archery, geocaching, and fire building! Activities will take place indoors and outdoors.

Tuesday, 9am-3pm, Jester Park Equestrian Center Pre-registration required; deadline is March 6. Ages: 10-12. Fee: $30.

15 Wild Night Life & Hike Join us for a campfire program about the wild night life in Jester Park. A short hike will follow as we search for some of these nocturnal animals.

Thursday, 7:30-9:30pm, Jester Park, Camp Area 5 Pre-registration required; deadline is March 12. Fee: $5.

16 Iowa Reptiles Come and learn about Iowa’s reptiles. We’ll discuss the fears and myths that surround these scaly creatures people love to hate. This program will feature live snakes.

Friday, 11am-12pm, Jester Park Lodge FREE. No registration required.

17 Geocache Leprechaun Hunt Learn to use a GPS and go search the woods to find the hidden pots of gold, collecting candy and prizes along the way. Keep an eye out for leprechauns along the way!

Saturday, 1-3pm, Brown’s Woods Pre-registration required; deadline is March 13. Fee: $5/child (ages 5-14).

Program Information & Registration: www.leadingyououtdoors.org or (515) 323-5339 10

PROGRAMS

MARCH (continued) 29 Book Worms Join our book club with Naturalist Heidi Anderson to discuss Hour of the Land by Terry Tempest Williams.

Thursday, 7-8:30 pm, Plot Twist Bookstore, 502 N Ankeny Blvd. Preregistration required; deadline is March 26. Fee: $5.

31 Full Moon Hike Explore the wonder and beauty of Thomas Mitchell Park at night under a full moon.

Saturday, 8-9pm, Thomas Mitchell Park, meet at pond parking lot.

FREE. No registration required.

APRIL 3 Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Des Moines Art Center Jill Featherstone, Director of Education, will deliver an illustrated presentation about the free cultural treasure in your community— the Des Moines Art Center.

Tuesday, 11am-12pm, Jester Park Lodge Register for lunch only; deadline is March 30. Fee: $10.

14 Rain Barrel Workshop Learn how to collect and use runoff water and then make your own 55-gallon rain barrel to take home.

Saturday, 10-11am, Jester Park Shop Pre-registration required; deadline April 6. Fee: $50.

20 Wild Night Life & Hike Join us for a campfire program about the wild night life in Jester Park. A short hike will follow as we search for some of these nocturnal animals.

Friday, 8-10pm, Jester Park, Camp Area 5 Pre-registration required; deadline is April 18. Fee: $5.

21 Wildflower Hike Hike through the woods to view and identify the dazzling display of spring wildflowers.

Saturday, 1:30-2:30pm, Brown’s Woods FREE. No registration required.

22 Earth Day Bike & Cache Join us on a biking and geocaching adventure! Meet at the Chichaqua Valley Trail be ready to bike a few miles as we search for geocaches hidden near the trail.

Sunday, 1-2:30pm, Chichaqua Valley Trailhead FREE. No registration required. Download the free app “c:geo” or “Geocaching” on your smart phone before you arrive. We will also have GPS units available.

29 Wildflower Hike Hike through the woods to view and identify the dazzling display of spring wildflowers.

Sunday, 1-2pm, Thomas Mitchell Park, meet at pond parking lot.

FREE. No registration required.

Program Information & Registration: www.leadingyououtdoors.org or (515) 323-5339

Eco Bus Trips...Going Wild!

Step on board with Polk County Conservation Eco-bus trips as we explore the beauty of Iowa and Iowan hospitality throughout the state. Bring a friend or come on your own and make new friends. Bring a sense of adventure and desire to reconnect with Iowa’s natural resources. Eco-bus trips take place from April to October. The trips will be posted on PCC website in February. Eco-bus trip on-line registration opens Saturday, March 24 at 8:00 am. For more information contact, Lori Foresman-Kirpes at (515) 323-5380 or lori.foresman-kirpes@polkcountyiowa.gov.

On-line Trip registration will open on Saturday, March 24 at 8:00 a.m.

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VOLUNTEER NEWS

UPCOMING VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS & EVENTS:

Woodland Restoration

Earth Day Trash Bash

Your help is needed to restore our woodlands by removing honeysuckle and other invasive species. No experience required and all supplies are provided. Dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear and bring a refillable water bottle. RSVP required. To register for this event, please email volunteer@ polkcountyiowa.gov.

Volunteers are needed for Iowa’s largest Earth Day clean up event! Trash Bash is a multi-organizational litter removal effort spread across 50 locations in the Des Moines Metro. The event kicks off with a Bash at noon downtown including sponsor and volunteer recognition, team introductions, educational booths and lunch. After the kick-off bash, team captains will lead the volunteers out to their project locations for an afternoon of giving back to the community. For more information please call 515248-6380, or email trashbash@dmgov.org.

Volunteer Appreciation Banquet

Earth Day Park Beautification

You and a guest are invited to join us at the Jester Park Lodge for a special evening to celebrate your contributions to conservation efforts in Polk County. The evening will consist of live music, hor d’oeuvres, dinner and a recognition/awards ceremony as we highlight the projects and events of 2017. Volunteers who have contributed 10+ hours are invited to attend. To confirm your hours and to RSVP, please email volunteer@polkcountyiowa.gov.

Kick off Earth Day in one of our county parks! Help beautify an urban forest preserve and adjacent roadways as we remove litter from Brown’s Woods and along 63rd Street. Wear long pants, sturdy shoes and bring gloves if you have a pair. Coffee, hot cocoa and water will be available – be sure to bring your favorite mug and refillable water bottle! All equipment provided. To register for this event, please email volunteer@polkcountyiowa.gov.

January 27 @ 10am-12pm Jester Park, meet at Shelter #5 & February 17 @ 10am-12pm Brown’s Woods

April 20 @ 8am-4pm Easter Lake Park

March 25 @ 5-7:30pm Jester Park Lodge

April 21 @ 10am-12pm Brown’s Woods

**If inclement weather is approaching and a workday must be canceled, a message indicating the cancelation will be left at 515.339.0933. In the absence of a cancelation message, the workday will proceed as planned.

Volunteer Spotlight A huge thank you to Cummins Central Power for their continued Adopt-A-Park sponsorship of Mally’s Weh-Weh-Neh-Kee Park in Berwick! Cummins Central Power had initially signed up for a one-year commitment. At the end of their first year, the group signed up for a second year, and recently committed to yet another in 2018. A diverse mix of Cummins staff participates in each workday and work quickly through our list of tasks. They have been an immense help with park and roadside clean-ups, pulling tires and debris out of Fourmile Creek, mulching trees, pouring concrete for a bike FixIt Station, grubbing and chipping new hiking trails, clearing downed trees and limbs and anything that needs to be done to help keep the park looking its best.

Last year Cummins Central Power was nominated for our Volunteer Group of the Year award. We look forward to working with them again this next year, and we are confident the park will continue to receive the best care with their continued efforts.

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JESTER PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTER

JESTER PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTER CALENDAR:

Riding Lessons

Spring Break Camp

Western and English lessons taught by our qualified and experienced instructors for students of all skill levels ages 8+. Our goal is to provide a positive atmosphere that fosters balanced horsemanship, “learning from a feel”. Pricing and scheduling availability can be found online or by emailing JPEC_lessons@ polkcountyiowa.gov.

Equestrian Camps are a wonderful way for a child to discover the world of horses. Beginner riding camps cover an introduction to horses, safety, horse care, grooming, saddling, and basic riding skills, with an emphasis on FUN! Horse and equipment are provided. Children should wear jeans and sturdy shoes.

Campers must be least 8 years old for all camps and pre-registration is required.

Starting January 29, Monday – Friday

Volunteer Opportunities

March 14 & 15 | 9am-2pm

January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14 | 10am-12pm

Spring Open House

Do you love horses and have some time to volunteer at the Jester Park Equestrian Center? We need volunteers of all types to help out with a wide variety of jobs and programs. Volunteers must be 18 and over to help with the horses but some basic barn chores and some special events can be assisted by minors over 14 year olds old with parental consent. Horse experience is great, but we love having volunteers that are willing to learn.

Come visit us and welcome spring at the barn! This is a great family friendly event to get outside and treat the kids. Jester Park will have a variety of pony related activities for families to appreciate and join in on a spring egg hunt, weather permitting! Come learn about all the upcoming events and programs at the equestrian center and enjoy the day!

Hope From Horses

January 13 & April 14 | 2-4pm “Hope from Horses” is a teen volunteer program designed to allow teenagers between 14-18-years-old to participate, under supervision, in the day to day activities and events at the Equestrian Center. This program is based off the premise of a “working student” program model, and involves training, mentorship, riding, and volunteerism. Students are required to meet certain criteria for the program, as well as be able to commit to a designated amount of time at the facility. The program is free of charge to accepted participants.

Tiny Tot Playdays

January 20, February 24, March 17, April 28 | 9am-12pm Pony Playdays are a great option for kids who are absolutely pony crazy! These day camps are designed for our Tiny Totters (ages 5-7 years old) to come out and enjoy once, twice, or as many times as they want! Each camp will have a different schedule and activities, so no two camps will be exactly alike.

Parents are welcome to stay and watch, or drop off and pick up. All camps will include an assisted riding lesson and lots of hands on pony time. Campers can expect to learn about basic horse care and how to groom, tack and lead their horses. All camps are beginner friendly, but also great for returning campers with new and exciting activities cooked up every playday.

Pre-registration required.

To register for an activity or event, go to www.jesterparkec.com

March 31 | 12-4pm

Kip Fladland Horsemanship Clinic April TBD

Come to JPEC and learn from one of the area’s top horsemanship clinicians. Kip Fladland is a nationally known clinician who has been a student of horsemanship for over 22 years, learning from Ray Hunt and Buck Brannaman. The techniques you will learn are applicable to all horse disciplines. More information regarding this clinic, including class times and pricing, can be found on our website. Auditors/spectators are welcomed with a $25/all day fee. Learn more about Kip Fladland at www. lariataranch.com.

Winter Sleigh Rides Join us when the snow flies and we’ll hitch up one of our draft horse teams and take your group out for a 45-minute sleigh ride through Jester Park. Even if there’s no snow, plan for a wagon on wheels instead of a sleigh on runners. After all, it’s about spending time with your loved ones, not the vehicle you’re riding in! Updated sleigh ride availabilities are listed on our website as well as pricing and additional information.

Jester Park Equestrian Center 11171 NW 103 Court Granger, IA 50109 (515) 999-2818 www.jesterparkec.com 13

to Woodward

PCC AREA MAP

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17

Sk

NE 96th St

69 un r

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NE 80th St

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NW 121st St

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Oralabor Rd

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NE 62nd Ave

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GRIMES

NE 112th St

NE 70th Ave NW 66th Ave

5 NE 88th St

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141

NE 78th Ave

Berwick Dr

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13

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NE 114th Ave

118th Ave

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GRANGER

NE 126th Ave

NW 118th Ave

NE 96th St

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POLK CITY

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NE 134th St

ELKHART

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ALTOONA 11 NE 46th Ave

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Browns Woods Dr

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20 SE

Easter Lake Dr

ARMY POST RD

SE 68th St

SW 63rd St

Park Ave

SE 64th Ave

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12

7. Eagle Roost Wildlife Area

357

8. Engeldinger Marsh

214

9. Fort Des Moines Park

116

Restrooms

Swimming

Snowmobiling

Showers

Playground

Picnic Shelters

Picnicking

Hunting

Horseback Riding

Historic Site

Hiking Trail

11. Gay Lea Wilson Trail 12. Great Western Trail 13. High Trestle Trail 14. Jester Park 15. Mally’s Weh Weh Neh Kee Park 16. Oralabor Gateway Trail 17. Sycamore Trail 18. Thomas Mitchell Park 19. Trestle to Trestle Trail 20. Yellow Banks Park

Fishing

Electricity

Dump Station

Drinking Water

Canoe Access

Camping

Boat Ramp

Bike Trail

1. Beaver Creek Greenbelt 2. Brown’s Woods Polk County Conservation 11407 NW Jester Park Dr. Granger, IA Marsh 50109 3. Carney (515) 323-5300 www.leadingyououtdoors.org 4. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt PUBLIC AREA ACRES 5. Chichaqua Valley Trail 1. Beaver Creek Greenbelt 123 6. Easter Lake Park 2. Brown’s Woods 484 7.

Eagle Roost Wildlife Area 3. Carney Marsh 40 8. Engeldinger Marsh 4. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt 7,300 * 20 5. Chichaqua Valley Trail 9. Fort Des Moines mi.

Park 6. Easter Lake Park 10. Four Mile Creek464 Greenbelt

Cabins

SE 5th St

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14

PLEASANT HILL 65

DES MOINES

163

UNIVERSITY AVE

NE 64th St

235

80

18

Euclid Ave

NE 108th St

URBANDALE

Merle Hay Road

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GREAT OUTDOORS FUND

BE A FRIEND

OF THE

Pledge your support today for high quality, healthy living for Greater Polk County through expanded open space, restored landscapes, and greater recreation and outdoor education opportunities.

FRIENDS ENJOY: • Having your name published in the Great Outdoors Foundation Annual Report • Receiving all current Great Outdoors Foundation and Polk County Conservation news and information • Participating in special programs, tours and events designed exclusively for our Friends • An invitation to the Annual Friends Celebration Banquet NAME:

EMAIL:

ADDRESS:

CITY, ZIP:

DAYTIME PHONE:

CELL PHONE:

FRIENDS LEVELS: ____ KIDS: $25

Receive a Birthday Card, Name recognition at our Friends Celebration

____ SENIOR CITIZENS: $50 (over age 55)

Invitation to our Friends Celebration and name recognition at the event

____ INDIVIDUAL/FAMILY: $100

Invitation to our Friends Celebration and name recognition at the event

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS:

____ BRONZE: $500

2 complimentary tickets to the Friends Celebration Name recognition at all events

____ SILVER: $1,000

4 complimentary tickets to the Friends Celebration Name recognition at all events

____ GOLD: $2,500

6 complimentary tickets to the Friends Celebration Name recognition at all events

____ PLATINUM: $5,000 and up

8 complimentary tickets to the Friends Celebration Name recognition at all events

PO Box 8071 • Des Moines, IA 50301 • Phone: 515.975.9990 • www.greatoutdoorsfoundation.org

15

Polk County Conservation 11407 NW Jester Park Dr. Granger, IA 50109

Check out the NEW Jester Park Nature Center website at: www.jesterparknaturecenter.com

More details to come as grand opening draws near!

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID AMES, IA PERMIT NO. 14