2021 Winter Prairie Horizons

STORY COUNTY CONSERVATION • NATURE PROGRAMS AND NEWS

November 2021 - January 2022

IN THIS ISSUE. . .

The Latest......................... 2 Updates & Stories............. 3 Programs & Events.............7 Calendar..........................10

Photo by Christina Campbell

Partners Membership.......11

— THE LATEST —

Timely and brief updates on ongoing projects

Bioassessment of Grant Creek

We contracted with the State Hygienic Lab to conduct a bioassessment of Grant Creek as it flows through Jennett Heritage Area. They looked at stream dimensions, substrate composition, in-stream cover, bank condition, and vegetation, and collected water quality, benthic macroinvertebrate, and fish samples. The lab will analyze the data to determine the health of the stream. Both fish and macroinvertebrates are great biological indicators to estimate stream health.

Analyzed metrics include species diversity, relative abundance of sensitive and tolerant organisms, and proportion of individuals belonging to specific feeding and habitat groups. The baseline data will be extremely useful as we move forward, helping us understand the effectiveness of water quality improvement efforts. We won’t get most of the data back until sometime this winter, but the preliminary results include 362 fish from 13 species.

Partners Update

We cannot hide our excitement about the amazing year that Partners just had! Your contributions in the last fiscal year came in at about $33,000, which was $9,000 above our initial goal. This year, we challenge you to exceed the goal once more. We have $89,505 left on the contract purchase for the Osheim property, and we have designated this year’s Partners contribution to go towards that purchase.

We are almost to the finish line, and we can get there with your help! This year’s goal is $30,000 and we are off to a promising start. When you renew or join with Partners, you get access to 10% off program registrations and services like building rentals or campsite reservations. You will also have access to a tour of the Osheim property before it is open to the public! Thank you for your continued support of conservation in Story County.

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In the parks...

Christiansen Forest Preserve • Natural Resource Steward, Bob Hartzler, removing honeysuckle • Oriental bittersweet control Dakins Lake • New dock ramp • Painted interior of shower buildings • Prairie seeding maintenance mowing Doolittle Prairie • Reed canary grass and brush removal East & West Peterson Park • Wayfinding signage Hertz Woods • Trimming back trail in preparation for rock resurfacing Heart of Iowa Nature Trail • Trimming back trail Hickory Grove Park • Prep work for future walleye brood rearing pond • Prairie seeding maintenance mowing Jim Ketelsen Greenwing Marsh • Undesired brush control McFarland Park • Replaced box steps on George Clark Trail; backfilling and shoulder regrading still underway • New dock approach • Natural Resource Steward, Rick Dietz, removing undesired brush along lakeshore • Watch for opportunities to provide input on lake restoration plan Robison Wildife Acres • Wayfinding signage • Goats are busy eating!

Tedesco Connector Trail • Bike repair station installed • Prairie seeding maintenance mowing Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor • Undesired brush control Wicks Wildlife Area • Prairie seeding maintenance mowing • Undesired brush removal

Restoration Efforts Continue Brandon Clough, Natural Resource Specialist

Wildlife habitat restoration efforts are underway at Jennett Heritage Area! Jennett is a 171-acre property approximately three miles south of Nevada. Its diverse ecosystems and wildlife make this a truly special spot; it contains prairie remnants and reconstructions, riparian woodlands, wetlands, ponds, and two creeks (West Indian Creek and Grant Creek). In 2010, a plant survey revealed 277 native species – 65 of which were prairie species. In 2019, a bird survey detected 101 species – 29 of which are categorized as Species of Greatest Conservation Need. A grassland ecosystem of this size and quality is extremely rare in Iowa, which makes it critical habitat for a number of Iowa’s wildlife. The restoration efforts underway will further improve the habitat quality and reduce threats to these plants and animals.

Currently, staff are concentrating restoration efforts along the northwest section of Grant Creek. Many of the tree and shrub species along the creek are not native to Iowa and/or are deemed invasive species and should be removed.

Some of the targeted species include Siberian elm, black locust, buckthorn, honeysuckle, multiflora rose, white mulberry, and eastern red cedar.

These undesirable species harm the native ecosystem in many ways. From a vegetative stand point, they are outcompeting native plants by rapidly growing in dense thickets. These thickets often expose bare soil underneath, which in turn leaves the area vulnerable to soil erosion and harms water quality downstream. These trees and shrubs are also starting to invade the nearby prairie remnant and prairie reconstructions. From a wildlife standpoint, they are breaking up the grassland into separate segments. Grassland birds in particular require large, contiguous suitable habitat. The trees also create perching sites and corridors for nest predators to thrive.

You may notice staff removing brush in a variety of ways. Heavy machinery is used to mow shrubs and a tree shear can efficiently remove the easily-accessible trees. Staff will collaborate with Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa to chainsaw the less accessible trees and shrubs (thank you CCI!). Brush piles will be burned in a year or two once they have had time to dry.

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The Scoop ON THE SOIL

Sara Qualley

Sara, our Outreach Assistant, is a recent gradute of the Univesity of Northern Iowa with a bachelor’s in digital journalism. She enjoys camping, hiking, and collecting houseplants.

World Soil Day is on December 5. Being an ag-centric state, the quality of Iowa’s soil is of utmost importance. We wouldn’t see those familiar fields of corn and soybean without the rich soil here. Iowa’s lands haven’t always been farmed, though.

Prairies once covered much of Iowa. These prairies were home to an abundance of wildlife and plants. As organisms died, their nutrients were absorbed by the ground, becoming part of Iowa’s rich soil. The soil nourished long prairie grasses, whose extensive root systems prevented erosion. Along with severe drought, plowing prairies, excessive tillage, and lack of conservation practices caused the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. There were fewer root systems to help hold soil in place, resulting in dust storms.

We learned some lessons from the Dust Bowl, certainly, but we did irreversable damage. Today, less than 0.1% of original prairie remains in Iowa.

Five factors contribute to soil development: climate, organisms, relief, parent material,

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Did you know . . .

One of the most productive soils in Iowa is Tama soil. It’s even been suggested as Iowa’s official soil, much like the goldfinch is the state’s official bird. The soil, which is made of loess (windblown sediment), is found in 28 counties.

and time (ClORPT). Climate, which includes precipitation and temperature, dictates how materials weather and the decomposition of dead organisms. Organisms include plants, animals, and microorganisms. Relief (landform position) describes the land’s shape. Slope direction determines how much sunlight hits soil and how much water it retains. Parent material refers to the material soil formed from. Common Iowa soil material includes glacial till, loess, and alluvium. These materials can be deposited by wind, water, volcanoes, and gravity. Time impacts the processes that develop soil.

deer with places to hide and graze. Flowers are buffets for pollinators like bees, wasps, and ants.

Through efforts such as no-till systems, mulching, increasing plant diversity, and actively growing plants to produce compounds for soil microorganisms, we can help ensure Iowa’s soil is here to stay.

There are a few ways farmers can help preserve Iowa’s soil. One way is through planting cover crops. Farmers plant cover crops after fall harvest and before spring crop planting. Cover crops reduce erosion, absorb nitrates, improve soil health, suppress weeds, and provide livestock with feed.

Without efforts to preserve our soil, Iowa’s ecosystems will be jeopardized. Erosion results in nutrients washing away, making it more difficult for plants to grow. Not only do people rely on plants, but so do wildlife for food and shelter.

Birds flock to trees for nesting and a safe place to sleep. Forests, prairies, and cornfields provide

According to a December 2017 study conducted by the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative, about 36 billion tons of soil eroded per year. Most soil loss occurs in Sub-Saharan Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. If we apply agricultural conservation practices correctly worldwide, we could save over a billion tons of soil per year.

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about how others choose to recreate outdoors.

Non-toxic ammunition is required for all hunting in SCCowned and managed areas (does not include Doolittle Prairie, Skunk River Flats, or Colo Bog).

SEASON DATES

Season Season Dates Youth Sept. 18 - Oct. 3 Disabled Hunter Sept. 18 - Oct. 3 Archery Oct. 1 - Dec. 3 AND Dec. 20 - Jan. 10, 2022 Muzzleloader Early: Oct. 16-24 Late: Dec. 20 - Jan. 10, 2022

Season Shotgun First: Second:

Season Dates Dec. 4-8 Dec. 11-19

Nonresident Holiday Dec. 24 - Jan. 2, 2022

2021 Fall Turkey Hunting License Types Season Dates Gun/Bow Oct. 11 - Dec. 3 Archery Only Oct. 1 - Dec. 3 AND Dec. 20 - Jan. 10, 2022 Shooting Hours Gun: 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset Bow: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset

Shooting hours for all deer seasons are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.

Hunters are required to report deer and turkey harvest either at iowadnr.gov or by calling the number printed on the harvest reporting tag.

2021-22 Iowa Trapping Seasons

Remember that the parks are shared spaces for all of us to use. Be courteous

2021-22 Iowa Deer Hunting Seasons

Hunting Seasons Are Here

Species Season Dates Raccoon, Muskrat, Fox (Red and Gray), Coyote, Badger, Mink, Weasel, Opossum, Striped Skunk Nov. 6 - Jan. 31, 2022 Beaver Nov. 6 - April 15, 2022 Otter* Nov. 6 - Jan. 31, 2022 Bobcat* Nov. 6 - Jan. 31, 2022 Civet Cat (Spotted Skunk) & Gray Wolf Closed

Trapping Hours

Daily/Season

8 a.m. First Day 8 a.m. First Day 8 a.m. First Day 8 a.m. First Day

No Limit No Limit 3/3 See p. 33

*Furharvesters must contact a conservation officer within 24 hours of taking an otter or bobcat to receive a CITES tag. See Iowa Hunting, Trapping & Migratory Game Bird Regulations for more information on bobcat zones and harvest restrictions.

Turn-In-Poachers 1-800-532-2020

Small Game andCENTRAL Upland HuntingZONE Seasons Bag Limits SEASON DATES NORTH ZONE NORTH ZONE ZONE SOUTH ZONE SEASON DATES CENTRAL ZONE SOUTH NORTH ZONE CENTRAL ZONE CENTRAL SOUTH ZONE SEASON DATES NORTH ZONE ZONE SOUTH ZONE Species Season Dates Shooting Hours Daily Possession

Youth Waterfowl Sept. 25-26Sept. 25-26 Oct. 2-3 Youth Waterfowl Oct. Oct. 2-39-10 Parks designated as Youth public Waterfowl Sept.

25-26 Oct.25-26 2-3 Oct. Rooster Pheasant (Youth) 23-24 8 a.m.Oct. to 4:309-10 p.m.

1 Youth Waterfowl Sept.

Oct. 2-39-10 Oct. 9-10Oct. Ducks, Coots, Mergansers Oct. 2-8 & Oct. 9-15 & Oct. 16-22 & 2022 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Rooster Pheasant Oct. -& Jan. 10, Ducks, Coots, Mergansers Oct. 2-8 & Oct. 9-15 & Oct. 16-22 & Ducks, Coots, Mergansers Oct. 2-8 & Oct. 9-15 Oct. 16-22 &3 Ducks, Coots, Mergansers Oct. Oct. 16-Dec. 2-8 & 7 Oct. 23-Dec. 9-15 & 14 Oct.30 16-22 & 21 Oct. Oct. 30-Dec. hunting areas (which means they Bobwhite Quail 21 Oct. 30 - Jan. 31, 2022 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

8 Oct. 16-Dec. 7 Oct. 23-Dec. Oct. 30-Dec. Oct. 16-Dec. 71014 Oct. 23-Dec. Oct. 30-Dec. Oct. 72-17 23-Dec. 1421 Dark & Light Geese Sept.

25-Oct. &16-Dec. Oct. & 14 Oct. Oct. Gray Partridge Oct. 9-24 9 - Jan.&31, 2022 8 a.m.Oct. to 4:3030-Dec. p.m.

8 21 Oct. 2-17 & Oct. 9-24 & Dark & Light 25-Oct. 10 & Dark & Sept.

Light Geese Sept.

25-Oct. 10 & Oct. 2-17 & Oct. 9-24 & Ruffed Grouse Oct. 2 Jan. 31, 2022 Sunrise to Sunset 3 are also open to trapping) areGeese (including Canada geese, Oct. 16-Dec. 7 & 25-Oct. Oct. 23-Dec. 14 & Oct. Oct. 30-Dec. 21 & Dark & Light Geese Sept.

10 & 2-17 & Oct. 9-24 & (including Canada geese, 16-Dec. 7geese, & Oct. 23-Dec. 14 & Oct. 30-Dec. & (including Canada geese, Oct. 16-Dec. 7& Oct. 23-Dec. 1421 & Oct. Sept.

30-Dec. 21 29 & 1/2 hour before Mourning Dove 1 - Nov. 15 brant & Oct. white-fronted Dec. 11-Jan. 8, 2022 Dec. 15, 2022 Dec. 25-Jan. (including Canada geese, Oct. 16-Dec. 718-Jan. &25-Jan. Oct. 23-Dec. 1422, &2022 Oct. 30-Dec. 21 & sunrise to sunset clearly signed at the brant entrance. & white-fronted geese, 11-Jan. 8,geese, 2022 Dec. 18-Jan. 15, 2022Dec. Dec. 2022Dec. brant &Dec. white-fronted Dec. 11-Jan. 8, 2022 18-Jan. 15,22, 2022 25-Jan. 22, 2022 white & blue phase snow

2 12 16 16 6 45

(Cottontail) 4 - Feb. 28, 2022 Sunrise to Sunset 10 20 geese, Dec. 11-Jan.Rabbit 8, 2022 Dec.Sept.

18-Jan. 15, 2022 Dec. 25-Jan. 22, 2022 Rabbit (Jack) Closed (Fox and Gray) Sept.

4 Jan. 31, 2022 No Restrictions 6 12 white & blue phase snow S t a t e wSquirrel i d e Crow i d e Oct. 15 - Nov. 30 and No Restrictions No Limit No Limit t a t e wS i t da et e w geese & SRoss’ geese) Doves Sept.

1-Nov. 29 SHOOTING HOURS: 1/2-hour Turn-in-Poachers Jan. 14 - March 31, 2022

white && blue phase snow white & blue phase snow brant & white-fronted geese Ross’ geese) geese & Ross’ geese) geese & Ross’ geese)

Blaze orange clothing provides increased visibility. Doves Teal

Doves Sept. 1-16 1-Nov. 29 before SHOOTING 1/2-hour Turn-in-Poachers HOURS: 1/2-hour Sept.

1-Nov. 29 SHOOTING sunriseHOURS: toTurn-in-Poachers sunset except Teal Sept.

1-800-532-2020 Pigeon Continuous Open Season before sunrise sunset before sunrise sunset except Teal Sept.

1-16to 30 S to1-800-532-2020 t Teal aexcept e 1-800-532-2020 w i d e Sept.

1-16 Special September andtwoodSnipe Sept.

4-Nov. Furbearer Hunting Special September Teal and wood- Seasons Special September Teal and woodSnipe Sept.

4-Nov. 30 Snipe Sept.

4-Nov. 30 cock which is sunrise to sunset Species Season Dates Rails (Virginia & Sora ) Sept.

4-Nov. 12 SHOOTING HOURS: 1/2-hour Doves Sept.

1-Nov. 29 cock which is sunrise to sunset cock which4-Nov. is sunrise to sunset Rails (Virginia ) Oct. Sept.

4-Nov. 12 & Sora Rails (Virginia & Sora) Sept.

Groundhog Continuous Open Season Woodcock 2-Nov. 15121-16 beforeCoyote, sunrise to sunset except Teal 15 Sept.

Oct. 2-Nov. 15 Raccoon and Opossum Nov. 6 - Jan. 31, 2022 Woodcock Oct.Woodcock 2-Nov.

No Restrictions

No Limit

Shooting Hours Daily Turn-in-Poachers No Restrictions

No Limit

No Limit

Possession No Limit

1-800-532-2020 Be aware of what seasons are 8 a.m. First Day No Limit No Limit See IOWA HUNTING, TRAPPING & MIGRATORY GAME BIRD more Special September Teal Fox REGULATIONS (Red and Gray) for Nov.and 6information - Jan.wood31, 2022 8 a.m. First Day No Limit No Limit Snipe Sept.

4-Nov. 30 GAME See IOWA TRAPPING & MIGRATORY See IOWA HUNTING, TRAPPING & HUNTING, MIGRATORY GAME BIRD REGULATIONS forBIRD moreREGULATIONS information for more information open; visit https://www.iowadnr.

Bobcat* Nov. 6 - Jan. 31, 2022 8 a.m. First Day *See p. 33 *See p. 33 Rails (Virginia & Sora) Sept. 4-Nov. 12 cock which is sunrise to sunset gov/hunting/hunting-seasonWoodcock Oct. 2-Nov. 15 dates for more information.

See IOWA HUNTING, TRAPPING & MIGRATORY GAME BIRD REGULATIONS for more information 6

— PROGRAMS & EVENTS — Providing people opportunities and inspiration to develop an appreciation and understanding of nature and humans as a part of it

O.W.L.S. Programs

They’re back! O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier, Souls) have returned in a new format and time. These are designed for “boomers” or older, but anyone can attend.

Program runs from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; doors will open at 10:00 a.m. for coffee/tea and chatting.

Climate Change Thursday, November 4

Nature Play: Leaves Tuesday, November 9 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

McFarland Park

During this unstructured activity, we’ll focus on leaves!

Kids will be encouraged to help make piles of leaves to play in. A fall scavenger hunt and leaf matching activity will also be provided. Let the imagination, discoveries, and friendships unfold. Participants should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. This is most appropriate for ages 3 and up, but all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is free but registration is required by 9:00 a.m. on Monday, November 8.

National Hiking Day

Wednesday, November 17 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Skunk River Greenbelt Take a hike on National Hiking Day! We will meet at Soper’s Mill North (56501 170th St., Ames) to do a short route on the Skunk River Greenbelt totaling two miles on a dirt trail. Wear good hiking shoes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated as we explore! This hike is free but registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 15.

Many places are feeling the dramatic effects of climate change with weather extremes and rising ocean levels as each new year brings record-breaking heat.

This presentation by Denise Frank, from Climate Reality, will give you up-to-date information about what is happening around the globe. We’ll look at the problem as well as hopeful solutions, especially those that apply to our own state.

The Brenton Arboretum: Past, Present, and Future Thursday, December 2 Nestled in the heart of Dallas County farmland, The Brenton Arboretum is one of Iowa’s premier botanical collections. Join Executive Director Melissa Burdick for an exploration of the Arboretum from pioneer farming days, to a seed of an idea in founder Buz Brenton’s imagination, to the stunning cultural attraction it is today. Plus, enjoy a sneak peek at the exciting projects in store for the future with a glimpse of the newly updated master plan.

STAR 1 Thursday, January 6 When you think of search and rescue, what comes to mind? Usually, it’s a dog and someone in a bright neon vest. Have you ever thought about horses, instead?

Yes, horses can scent out people similar to a good trailing dog. Sara Samms will introduce you to the mounted unit of the STAR 1 team and explain how equine scenting works.

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Geocache Elf Hunt

Sunday, December 12 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

McFarland Park Santa’s helpers have been playing in the park! Learn how to use a GPS, then go search the woods to find stockings of goodies and elves hiding nearby. Bring back an elf to claim a special prize! The hunt is limited to 20 groups, so be sure to register early to reserve your spot.

It is recommended groups not exceed 10 people. Fee of $5 per collector (children 3 - 14 years old) required with registration by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, December 6.

Luminary Walk

Friday, December 17 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

McFarland Park Let luminaries light your way around McFarland Lake on a special walk to celebrate the changing season. Walk is self-guided; complete luminary loop is about one mile.

Dress in layered clothing appropriate for the weather.

Fee of $5 is required with registration by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 10.

Story County Polar Play January 1 - February 6 countywide!

Story County Conservation has created an online family challenge that will take you from your home and into your county parks--kicking off January 1! Sign up starts December 15, but you can sign up at any time throughout the challenge. Earn points by completing weekly missions (posted each Friday). Your team will have until February 6 to complete as many missions as you can. The winner earns a $50 gift certificate for a sweet winter treat at Chocolaterie Stam in Ames! Register at www.storycountyconservation.org, and we’ll send you the code to the game on the GooseChase app. Fee is $5 per team. Ring in the new year by getting outside!

Winter Hikes

Get out of the house with other outdoor enthusiasts, and explore local public areas this winter. Hikes begin at 1:30 p.m. and are expected to last no more than two hours.

The hikes may vary from good exercise to a social stroll and will end with snacks and beverages (bring your own).

Cold, wind, snow, rain, and ice are all possible! Hikes will go on as long as the roads are safe to drive. These hikes are free, but registration is requested. Contact the Outdoor Alliance of Story County with questions at info@ oasco.org.

January 6 - Anderson Access (56743 150 St., Story City) January 13 - West Peterson Park (55310 180th St., Ames) January 20 - Heart of Iowa Nature Trail (Cambridge) January 27 - McFarland Park (56461 180th St., Ames)

STORY COUNTY CONSERVATION 515.232.2516 8

56461 180th Street • Ames, Iowa 50010 Monday - Friday • 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. conservation@storycountyiowa.gov • www.storycountyconservation.org

Environmental Literature Club

Explore Your Outdoors: Animal Tracks

Explore nature cozied up with a good book at Environmental Literature Club. Join a discussion with naturalist Rebekah Beall at 7:00 p.m. on January 25, February 22, and March 29. Location (in Ames) TBD. Each month we will discuss a different book focused on the human relationship with the environment:

Join naturalist Jess Lancial as we learn about common animal tracks and scat. Look for clues around McFarland Park trails to help us discover animal inhabitants. This program is for children ages 5 and up plus their adult.

Participants must be dressed to go and explore outdoors.

This program is free but registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, January 24.

Jan. 25, Feb. 22, March 29 7:00 p.m.

Location TBD

Lab Girl by Hope Jahren (January) What Do We Know by Mary Oliver (February) The Overstory by Richard Powers (March)

Thursday, January 27 10 - 11 a.m. OR 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

McFarland Park

The club is free (book purchase is on your own) but registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, January 10.

snowshoe THIS WINTER

WATCH OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR PROGRAMS

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— CALENDAR OF EVENTS — Date Time Event Location

November 4 10:30 a.m.

O.W.L.S.: Climate Change McFarland Park November 8 5:30 p.m.

Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park November 9 4:30 p.m. Nature Play: Leaves McFarland Park November 11 SCC Offices Closed November 17 3:00 p.m.

National Hiking Day Hike Skunk River Greenbelt November 25 - 26 SCC Offices Closed December 2 10:30 a.m.

O.W.L.S.: The Brenton Arboretum McFarland Park December 6 5:30 p.m.

Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park December 12 1:00 p.m. Geocache Elf Hunt McFarland Park December 17 6:30 p.m. Luminary Walk McFarland Park December 24 - 27 SCC Offices Closed December 31 SCC Offices Closed January 1 - February 6 Story County Polar Play Countywide!

January 6 10:30 a.m. O.W.L.S.: STAR 1 McFarland Park January 6 1:30 p.m.

Winter Hike Anderson Access January 11 5:30 p.m.

Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park January 13 1:30 p.m.

Winter Hike West Peterson Park January 20 1:30 p.m.

Winter Hike Heart of Iowa Nature Trail January 25 7:00 p.m.

Environmental Literature Club Meeting TBD January 27 10:00 a.m.

Explore Your Outdoors: Animal Tracks McFarland Park January 27 1:30 p.m. Winter Hike McFarland Park January 27 4:30 p.m.

Explore Your Outdoors: Animal Tracks McFarland Park February 22 7:00 p.m.

Environmental Literature Club Meeting TBD March 29 7:00 p.m.

Environmental Literature Club Meeting TBD Need to locate one of our parks or areas? You can view individual maps and 911 addresses online.

www.storycountyconservation.org position open that August and Heather joined SCC full-time.

I first met Heather Hucka when she was as a seasonal naturalist for SCC in summer 2005. During that short three-month time, I saw a lot of potential. In January of 2006, I convinced Heather to return to Ames for a seven-month position. As luck would have it, we had a permanent 10

During her time here she has taught thousands of programs, but most notably are the many caving and backpacking trips that ignited the spark for exploration and appreciation of wilderness in so many youth, and her guest teaching at ISU Natural Resource Ecology and Management interpretation classes as a “prairie woman.” She was recognized by the National Association for Interpretation as the 2017 Master Front-Line Interpreter.

And now it’s time for us to say goodbye and congratulations. Heather has joined Cerro Gordo County as their Conservation Education Manager. This new chapter in her life allows her to move back home and care for the family property that is so dear to her. Next time you’re driving up I-35, plan some extra time in your trip to stop by the Lime Creek Nature Center and say hi to Heather. I will. ~ Jerry Keys, Environmental Education Coordinator

BOARD & STAFF Conservation Board

Craig Meyers, Chair Christine Laumer, Vice Chair Dr. Nancy Franz, Secretary Dr. Jim Pease, Member Ted Tedesco, Member Linda Murken, Ex Officio Member

Conservation Staff Conservation Center, Ames

Michael Cox, Director Ryan Wiemold, Parks Superintendent Pat Shehan, Special Projects Ranger Marianne Harrelson, Financial Data Manager Brittany Ridgway, Administrative Assistant II Jerry Keys, Environmental Education Coordinator Vacant, Naturalist Jess Lancial, Naturalist Rebekah Beall, Naturalist Beth Waage, Naturalist Erica Place, Outreach Coordinator

McFarland Park Shop, Ames

Vacant, Park Ranger Russ DeWall, Conservation Technician II Derek Seward, Trails/Natural Resources Technician Joe Hill, Conservation Technician Dillon Schmidt, Conservation Technician

Hickory Grove Shop, Colo

Vacant, Park Ranger Jake Smith, Conservation Technician Hunter Simmons, Conservation Technician Brandon Clough, Natural Resource Specialist

HELP PURCHASE A NEW PROPERTY! Help us reach our goal of $30,000 Your Story County Conservation Partners membership will help purchase a new property along the South Skunk River south of Story City. You will receive a nature-themed magnet and a 10% discount on all programs, facility rentals, and merchandise. The Red Fox membership level and above will be recognized in the conservation center for their support.

Eagle Business Level - $1,000 or more Red-tailed Hawk - $1,000 or more Great Blue Heron - $275 to $999 Red Fox - $125 to $274

Monarch Business Level - $250 to $999 Goldfinch - $70 to $124 Otter (Family) - $35 to $69 Great Horned Owl (Individual) - $30

Name Address City State

Zip

Phone E-mail Enclosed is my check for $ My membership level is Make checks payable to: Story County Conservation Partners 56461 180th Street, Ames, IA 50010-9451; Phone (515) 232-2516 Or join online! www.mycountyparks.com/ County/Story.aspx

Thank you to all those who support Story County Conservation with donations of time, funding, and materials.

IRVM Office & Shop, Nevada

Joe Kooiker, Vegetation Management Biologist Tyler Kelley, Vegetation Management Specialist

The Story County Conservation Board typically meets the second Monday of each month at the Story County Conservation Center at McFarland Park (56461 180th St.), northeast of Ames. Meetings are open to the public.

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR GENEROSITY All Partners members John Niyo Carrie Oboyle Iowa Orntihologists’ Union Jennifer Drinkwater Art LLC Daniel Ketelsen

Outdoor Alliance of Story County Mary Finch Sue & Jack Dekkers Susan Siev

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STORY COUNTY CONSERVATION 56461 180th Street Ames, Iowa 50010-9451

Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Ames, Iowa Permit 301