-THE LATESTTimely and brief updates on ongoing projects

“Workiva Day of Service” Impacts Honeysuckle, Invasives WANTED: ADOPT-APARK VOLUNTEERS

SCC would like to thank a combined group of Outdoor Alliance of Story County (OASCO) members and Workiva employees for a very productive group volunteer workday recently, utilizing Workiva’s volunteer time off (VTO) offering. They spent March 17, designated as “Workiva Day of Service,” removing honeysuckle and other invasive species from one of our properties. Sixteen volunteers put in a combined 64 hours and made a very noticeable impact.

Looking for a VTO event for employees at your workplace? Contact Outreach Coordinator Madi Nolte at mnolte@storycountyiowa.gov to discuss opportunities!

Watch for American kestrels at new boxes!

While exploring the Praerie Rail Trail (PRT), keep an eye out for American kestrel activity! Ranger Olivia VanderHart and Vegetation Management

Specialist Tyler Kelley recently installed seven nesting boxes on vacated utility poles along the trail. We hope to continue installing more boxes as well as involve volunteers moving forward!

Removal of standing dead trees has led to declining kestrel populations in North America, forcing these cavity nesters to rely on nesting boxes. Egg laying begins in April to May. You may notice these small, fierce raptors perched on power lines, waiting to swoop down to capture its prey.

Partners Update

Partners has passed the three-quarter mark for the Deppe Property fundraising goal of $40,000 for FY23! As of March 22, 186 Partners members have raised $32,459 this fiscal year to put towards the purchase of this 127-acre property. When you renew or join with Partners, you get access to 10% off program registrations and services like building or campsite reservations. Visit our website to find out how your contributions can make a lasting impact.

We’re still searching for volunteers to fill a few final slots in our AdoptA-Park Program. Upon signing up, volunteers commit to picking up trash at least once per month.

Current openings include C.J. Schreck Access as well as several individual sections at Hickory Grove Park

For more details or to sign up, visit the “Volunteering” page on our website.

In the Parks . . .

Christiansen Forest Preserve

• Walnut tree plantation thinned to improve tree health

Dakins Lake

• Native tree and shrub planting

Ronald “Dick” Jordan Wildlife Area

• Undesired tree removal performed by Conservation Corps of Iowa

Hickory Grove Park

• Removal of ash trees within Breezy Bay Campground and surrounding high-traffic areas (due to damage related to the devastating emerald ash borer)

• Emerald ash borer injections of trees in Breezy Bay Campground

• Timber stand improvement around lake performed by Conservation Corps of Iowa

Jennett Heritage Area

• Undesired trees removed by Conservation Corps of Iowa

McFarland Park

• Timber stand improvement around lake performed by Conservation Corps of Iowa

• Lake renovation in progress

Prairie Valley Preserve

• Undesired trees cleared from remnant prairie

• 1/2-acre prairie planting

Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor

• Six acres of praire seed sown/ planted

• Native tree and shrub planting

Osheim Prairie & Slough Preserve Hike

56103 130th Street, Story City, IA 50248 Thursday, May 11, 6:00 - 8:30 PM

Join us for a guided walk to see the special features and plants that live there! This hike is for SCC Partners members only. Prior owner Rosemary Osheim will speak about the area’s history and SCC’s Natural Resource Specialist Brandon Clough will share SCC’s goals. Hike will take place on mowed grass trails. Please watch for invitation via email.