The Latest

Timely and brief updates on ongoing projects

Partners

You did it... and then some! We set a goal of raising $24,000 towards the purchase of the Osheim property south of Story City, and as of the end of June, you have contributed over $30,000! You obviously see the importance of this native habitat (prairie, wetlands, floodplain timber) along the South Skunk River.

Story County Conservation still has $89,505 left on the contract purchase, so we have decided to continue designating Partners memberships towards this amazing property with a goal of raising $30,000 (1/3 of the remaining balance) in fiscal year 2022.

We will be offering a few small group tours of the area to Partners members (a special treat as it’s not yet open to public access!) once a parking lot is constructed. Thank you for your continued support of conservation in Story County.

ICCS Conference comes to Story County

It is Story County’s turn to host the annual Iowa’s County Conservation System (ICCS) Conference this September 15-17. Originally slated to take place here last year, the conference is an opportunity for board members and staff from county conservation departments across the state to learn about the hosting county’s latest advancements in natural resource protection and outdoor recreation. The exchange of ideas among county conservation professionals is invaluable, but it’s not free to put on a conference! We want to thank Shive Hattery, JEO Consulting Group, and all the other sponsors who are making it possible to provide this experience.

Hickory Grove Park • Park roads were resurfaced • Trail to island bridge was paved • Small bridge was finished to complete the trail around the lake • Fish stocking began in the recently renovated lake; more rain is needed for the lake to fill • Donated prairie phlox plugs were planted

Heart of Iowa Nature Trail • Grant applications have been submitted for future paving

McFarland Park • Hammock Hangout completed by Gabe LaFleur for his Eagle

Scout Project; hammocks available for checkout inside

Conservation Center • Retaining wall and steps installed at pergola swing • Design work on the future lake restoration is now underway

Tedesco Connector Trail • Benches and interpretive panels installed • Prairie seeding in progress

West Peterson Park Lots of updates! See page 4

Prairie seeding maintenance mowings, goat grazing, and other invasive plant control will be taking place at various parks