2017 Summer Prairie Horizons

May - July 2017

Prairie Horizons In this issue...

Nature Camp Schedule Pages 2-3 Programs and Events Pages 4-6 Conservation Updates Pages 7-8 Map of SCC Areas Page 9 Calendar of Events Page 10 Partners Membership Page 11 Older, Wiser, Livelier Seniors Page 12 Story County Conservation 56461 180th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

515-232-2516 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov

www.storycountyconservation.org

ners Par t g Sprin l iva Fest 5/7/17 2-5pm details page 4

Construction Phase I Is Underway!

The Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor master plan received public comment in January and was approved by the Story County Board of Supervisors in mid-February. The first of three work phases focuses on stream restoration and bank stabilization. The deeply incised stream channel was mostly forested and dominated by highly invasive understory species. The removal of select areas of forested riparian zone was recently completed in order to re-establish the historic plant community — tallgrass prairie with scattered trees. Stream restoration work will likely begin sometime this summer. Phase II, which will be geared towards trail work, will begin in 2018. Stay tuned for more updates!

Programs & Events Want a T-shirt for nature camp?

Order them online at

www.storycountyconservation.org

ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR ALL NATURE CAMPS BEGINS SATURDAY, APRIL 15 AT 8:00 A.M.

For children starting kindergarten fall 2017:

POLLIWOGS $35/session (four-day camp) Camp A - Preschoolers explore what makes each animal special, whether they have fur, feathers, fliers, or fins. On the last day, we’ll venture to the lake with nets, so be prepared to get wet and dirty!

June 26 - 29, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. or June 26 - 29, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Camp B - Children experience nature using dirt, rocks, plants, and water and get wet and dirty in the process!

July 25 - 28, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

For children completing kindergarten spring 2017:

FROGS $40/session

Camp A - Children discover what makes a habitat through exploration, games, and song. Campers connect to the world around them by investigating the five basic needs of all living things.

June 12 - 16, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. or June 12 - 16, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Camp B - Every day at Frogs camp is an adventure as children examine the natural world around them.

July 24 - 28, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. or July 31 - Aug. 4, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

For children completing grades 1 or 2 spring 2017:

WATERBUGS $40/session

Camp A - Calling all explorers! Search for nature’s treasures as we follow maps, make mini-rafts, investigate wildlife, and step into creeks and marshes. Discover Story County natural areas through hands-on activities, art, stories, games, and journaling.

June 12 - 16, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. or June 12 - 16, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

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Camp B - Children will go on expeditions to find nature’s wonders right here in Story County.

July 24 - 28, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. or July 31 - Aug. 4, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Story County Conservation • 515-232-2516

Programs & Events

FUN-LOVING OUTDOOR ADVENTURE TEAM (FLOAT) FLOAT-I $50

For youth completing grades 3 or 4 spring 2017: ... teaches campers basic outdoor skills while preparing for the higher level FLOATs. Fishing, canoeing, map reading, cooking, and other skills will be taught. Runs 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on the following dates: June 8 - 9, June 19 - 20, June 22 - 23, and June 29 - 30

FLOAT - II $50

For youth completing grades 5 or 6 spring 2017: ... teaches a variety of outdoor skills. Campers build self-confidence in camping and canoeing and will spend the night exploring McFarland Park. This is outdoor play in the best way.

August 8, 9:00 a.m. - August 9, 9:00 a.m. (overnight)

FLOAT - III $55

For youth completing grades 6 or 7 spring 2017: ... allows campers to explore an Iowa river by taking an overnight canoe trip. Campers must have prior canoe experience or have attended a previous FLOAT camp.

July 6, 9:00 a.m. - July 7, 4:00 p.m. (overnight)

FLOAT - IV $75

For youth completing grades 7 or 8 spring 2017: ... explores Iowa underground! Go caving, climbing, and hiking on a two-night experience in eastern Iowa.

Learn how cooperation and teamwork can build your own confidence and abilities. Dare to try new things and discover new places. Please note that caving involves crawling through dark, small spaces.

August 2, 9:00 a.m. - August 4, 3:00 p.m. (overnight)

FLOAT - V $300

For those completing grades 9 - 12 spring 2017: Join Story County Conservation’s F.L.O.A.T. V nature camp on an inspiring six-day backpacking adventure to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Experience three nights back-country camping in over 200,000 acres of wilderness at our nation’s highest national park. Surround yourself with rugged peaks and alpine lakes. Explore the western mountain range and discover wildness. Challenge your mind, body, and spirit and make it a summer to remember!

June 21, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (training day) July 13 - July 18 (overnight) How do you earn a spot? Go to www.storycountyconservation.org, complete an application and letter of support, and deliver it to McFarland Park or e-mail it to hhucka@storycountyiowa.gov by 4:00 p.m. on May 22. If selected, you will begin your journey with a training day on June 21 at McFarland Park. At training, you will get a glimpse of back-country camping: practice hiking with a loaded pack, learn to use the gear, and find out how to prepare for the adventure. Backpacking is a very physical activity, so you will want to be in decent shape before we leave. Space is limited! Immerse yourself in the wilderness. This is an adventure to top them all! www.storycountyconservation.org

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Programs & Events Registration for all programs and events is online at www.storycountyconservation.org unless other registration information is provided in the program description.

Call (515) 232-2516 if you have questions.

Fly Tying and Casting Class

Saturday, May 6, 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Conservation Center, McFarland Park Explore all aspects of the sport with hands-on activities including tying flies, casting a fly rod, and hopefully catching the big one! You will be tying a Woolly Bugger and Clouser Minnow. No prior experience necessary! Participants must be at least 18 years old. Teaching provided by Allen Pattillo, ISU Fisheries Extension Specialist, and the Iowa Chapter of the American Fisheries Society student subunit.

Fee of $25 with registration is required by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 28.

Partners Spring Festival

Sunday, May 7, 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

McFarland Park Enjoy an afternoon in the park canoeing and fishing, gazing at the sun and wildflowers, learning about pollinators and native plants, and participating in crowd-sourced poetry! The day will include: • Live music by the Britches & Hose Ukulele Club • Unveiling of the new Discovery Nature Playscape • Native plant sale by ISU’s EEOB Department • Solar viewing provided by the Ames Area Amateur Astronomers • Canoeing lead by the Skunk River Paddlers • Fishing poles and bait available from Story County Conservation • Booths by Iowa Bird of Mouth, Plant.Grow.

Fly., Iowa Native Plant Society, and Master Gardeners The annual photo contest entries will be on display inside the conservation center. Awards will be presented during band intermission.

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Master River Stewards Program Conservation Center, McFarland Park Iowa River Revival’s Master River Stewards Program is an eight-part, comprehensive course co-sponsored by Prairie Rivers of Iowa that focuses on riverine systems, including skills to paddle and navigate rivers, restoring aquatic habitat, improving water quality, and understanding policies related to floodplains, river protection, and restoration.

The Master River Stewards Program will build on a network of river experts in various partner agencies and organizations. It will help adult learners collaborate to protect and improve Iowa’s rivers so current and future generations can enjoy these resources.

To become a Master River Steward you need to: • have an interest in river conservation and environmental issues and concerns • complete all 8 sessions, including small homework assignments • provide at least 32 hours of volunteer efforts after the training, usually done as a watershed group with other MRSP participants • have a willingness to learn and share ideas with others Class schedule is as follows: May 11, 5:30-9:30pm: Introduction/Watersheds May 18, 5:30-9:30pm: River Form and Function May 20, 10am - 4pm: Navigating Iowa’s Waters and River Life (Paddle Trip) May 25, 5:30-9:30pm: River Chemistry and Monitoring June 1, 5:30-9:30pm: Agricultural Production, Policies, and Iowa’s Rivers June 8, 5:30-9:30pm: Stream and Riparian Zone Restoration and Impacts on Fish and Wildlife June 15, 5:30-9:30pm: Review and Potential Projects Planning August 3, 5:30-7:30pm: Final Review Session Space is limited! Fee of $100 with registration is required by Sunday, April 23.

Story County Conservation • 515-232-2516

Programs & Events TEAM Days

Evening Exploration

Saturday, May 20, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Gate installation and trail grubbing Meet at Pleasant Grove Church (56971 170th St., Ames) Saturday, June 10, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Trail clearing/vegetation removal Meet at Soper’s Mill North (56501 170th St., Ames) Be a part of our TEAM (Trail Enhancement and Management) and help make improvements to county trail systems. All volunteers are asked to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and gloves and bring a water bottle. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended. Registration is required by 4:00 p.m. the Thursday before each event to ensure enough tools and refreshments for everyone.

Evening Prairie Walks May 25, June 22, July 27, August 24, 7:00 p.m.

Doolittle Prairie (14249 560th Ave, Story City) Join Lloyd Crim at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended. Bring your camera for beautiful photographs! Doolittle Prairie is located 1.25 miles south of E-18 on 560th Avenue. These walks are free, and no registration is required.

Friday, June 2, 8:45 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.

McFarland Park Discover the mysteries of the dark at the park! Follow us on a journey to understand just what it takes to be a creature of the night. Test your senses and try your hand at talking with the owls. Capture this unique opportunity to see McFarland Park through lightless eyes. This hike is not intended to scare but to excite your imaginations! If you wish to bring a flashlight, please cover it with red tissue paper. This program is free, but registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31.

Naturalist Lunch Box

McFarland Park (behind the Conservation Center) Bring your lunch, spread a blanket, and join a naturalist for a Friday picnic in the park!

Jumping Frogs Friday, June 16, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Animal Stories and Songs Friday, July 7, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

These programs are appropriate for all ages and will be held inside in case of inclement weather. Adults are expected to remain with their children.

These programs are free, and no registration is required.

Eco Arts and Theatre Camp Wednesday, July 12, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

McFarland Park

NEW

!

Does your child enjoy arts and theatre? Check out this new eco arts nature camp!

Interpret the woodlands of McFarland Park with art and theatre. This camp provides youth a view of the natural world and their relationship with it through new eyes! Participants will explore and interact with woodland habitat through nature journaling, sketching, storytelling, and theatre games. This camp is for children completing grades 4 or 5 in spring 2017 and will be lead by SCC volunteer Navvab Munirih. Navvab has worked as a professional actor, dancer, mime, and storyteller, as well as an inter-arts educator and counselor.

Fee of $20 with registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 28. Registration begins on Saturday, April 15 at 8:00 a.m. www.storycountyconservation.org

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Programs & Events Butterfly Field Day

Saturday, June 17, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

McFarland Park Hike McFarland Park and hunt for butterflies with Reiman Gardens staff. The butterfly survey will serve as a practice session for Iowa Butterfly Survey Network volunteers, but all are welcome. Discover some of Iowa’s beautiful bugs and learn more about getting involved in a statewide citizen science project. Be prepared to hike up to 1.5 miles. Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult. Event will be canceled in the event of rain. This is program is free, and no registration is required.

Boundary Waters Adventure

September 7, 6:30 a.m. - September 11, 6:30 p.m.

BWCA Grand Marais, Minnesota We are going to Boundary Waters!

Journey with SCC to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeast Minnesota on this five-day guided excursion. As one of America’s premier canoe destinations and rated one of National Geographic’s “Top 50 Places You Must See,” you need to take this unique opportunity to experience true wildness first-hand!

Paddle Boarding Basics

Monday, July 31, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

West Peterson Park (55310 180th St., Ames) Stand-up paddle boarding is the fastest growing paddle sport in the country. Come learn about different boards and have fun trying your skills out on the water. Paddle boarding can provide an amazing full-body workout that addresses your core, cardio fitness, balance, and flexibility, all with the fluidity of a paddle sport! Get out on the water and enjoy nature! Light refreshments will be provided. Must be 18 or older to attend. Fee of $15 with registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21.

The fifth annual Wild Women of the Woods event will take place September 22-24 at Hickory Grove Park! Participants can opt to camp out and will choose from many different sessions including Tree ID, Wild Edibles, Fly Fishing/Tying, Djembe Drumming, Survival Snares, Advocacy 101, Creating Spice Blends, Wood Burning, Healing Massage, Gun Shooting Basics, Soul Collage, Wild Floral Arrangements, Backyard Urban Farming, Hiking and Hygiene, Go Birding, Edible Landscaping, and much, much more!

Watch for more information on our website in June.

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“There is magic in the feel of a paddle and the movement of a canoe, a magic compounded of distance, adventure, solitude, and peace. The way of a canoe is the way of the wilderness and of a freedom almost forgotten.” - Sigurd Olsen Spend two nights camping under the stars, immersing yourself in more than one million acres of wilderness. Explore secluded lakes, relax with silent vistas, and find yourself among the striking pines, moose, and eagles. Register early, space is limited to six participants!

A pre-trip meeting will be held on Friday, August 18, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Must be 21 or older to attend. Must register with a tentmate, be able to lift a minimum of 45 lbs, and have prior canoeing experience. Most equipment provided. Fee of $550 per person with registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, August 14.

Story County Conservation • 515-232-2516

Conservation Updates

Roadsides and Beyond By: Joe Kooiker, Roadside Biologist In February 1987, the Story County Board of Supervisors officially adopted an Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM) Program - the second in Iowa.

Since then, approximately 37 counties have followed suit. Although specific goals may vary from county to county, IRVM’s main objective is to provide safe travel to motorists by managing vegetation in the roadsides paying special attention to sight distance issues around driveways, bridge approaches, and intersections. Encroaching brush and noxious (along with obnoxious) weeds are dealt with accordingly. Stabilizing roadsides after construction projects is also a priority here in Story County. Quick establishment of a cover crop followed by a more long-term, self-sustaining, diverse mix of native plants is our goal.

Native is a recurring theme in IRVM. Why plant native species? Native plants are durable, long-lived perennials perfectly matched to Iowa’s climate and growing season. Their deep and extensive root systems provide superior erosion control. Plantings can trap blowing snow, they provide valuable habitat for a variety of birds, mammals, and insects - not to mention that they beautify the right-of-way in a manner that reflects Iowa’s historic prairie landscape. A healthy, happy, native plant community is the roadside manager’s best friend when it comes to all aspects of vegetation management.

This past February marked 30 years for our program. In that time, we’ve planted approximately 1,505 sites for a total of 1,175 acres in our roadsides! Agreed, some of the plantings look better than others, but we’ll take what we get in that harsh roadside environment. It’s estimated that Story County has 5,500 roadside acres, so we still have some ground to cover. We’ll keep chugging along in our hydroseeder! Next time you spot some bright orange butterfly milkweed or purple spikes of prairie blazing star in the ditches as you’re headed down the road, think IRVM. Here’s to the next 30 years!

Partners Fundraising Effort Update By: Jerry Keys, Environmental Education Coordinator As you know, all new Partners memberships and renewals received this year will help Story County Conservation acquire the 175-acre Ronald “Dick” Jordan Family Wildlife Area. The Partners Advisory Committee set a goal of raising $20,000. As of March 1, we have raised $12,570!

How can you help us reach this goal? Tell your friends and neighbors about Partners. Take them out to one of our parks, pass along your newsletter to them, or ask us for additional copies to hand out. Tell them how important the parks are to our community and our quality of life. Tell them you support SCC and they should, too. Renew your membership and, if you can, renew at a higher level. Then pat yourself on the back and take a walk, go fishing, or enjoy a picnic in one of SCC’s parks.

www.storycountyconservation.org

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Conservation Updates

More Staffing Updates!

Russ DeWall Conservation Technician II On October 6,2008, I joined the Story County Conservation team as a conservation technician. I was very excited to start my first full-time job stationed at Hickory Grove Park.

Over my eight years there, I learned valuable new skills and built many new relationships with not only my co-workers but our park users, too. I recently transitioned into the role of conservation technician II -- I was just as excited as when I first was hired on in 2008. Even though it meant leaving my roots at Hickory Grove, I was eager to move over to the other side of the county to continue my new journey at McFarland Park. I am looking forward to my new responsibilities!

Dustin Horne Conservation Technician My name is Dustin Horne, and I’m the new conservation technician at Hickory Grove Park. I am originally from Tama, Iowa. My family includes my parents, Don and Jo, and two younger brothers, Donovan and Dallas. I attended Iowa Lakes Community College where I wrestled and received my associate’s degree in Environmental Science, and later received a bachelor’s degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University.

I love spending time outside and particularly enjoy bow season and ice fishing. I’m very excited to start my career here at Story County Conservation.

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In Other News...

Nevada School District’s MultiAge program received the Iowa Association of Naturalists/ Iowa Conservation Education Coalition’s Sylvan Runkel Environmental Education School Award for 2016. We truly appreciate the school’s emphasis on learning about and caring for our natural resources. Pictured above are educators Maggie Davis and Kedra Hamilton.

We’re proud to announce that Story County Conservation is now certified as a Service Enterprise by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service. We’re joining a prestigious group of organizations committed to effectively delivering on their missions by strategically engaging volunteer time and talent. We’re only the 10th organization in Iowa to become certified!

Jolene Van Waus, our financial data manager, recently celebrated her 30th work anniversary!

Jolene remembers when the beach at Hickory Grove had an entrance fee of 25 cents and when there was no conservation center at McFarland Park. We don’t know how we’d get along without her skills, knowledge, and experience.

Thank you for everything you do, Jolene! Pictured right, Jolene receives her award from the Story County Board of Supervisors.

Story County Conservation • 515-232-2516

Story County Conservation Map

Having trouble locating one of our parks or areas?

Remember that you can view individual maps and 911 addresses online. www.storycountyconservation.org www.storycountyconservation.org

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Calendar of Events Date Time Event Location MAY Tuesday, May 2 11:00 a.m.

Thursday, May 4 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 6 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 7 2:00 p.m.

Monday, May 8 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 11 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 18 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 20 9:00 a.m.

Saturday, May 20 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, May 25 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 25 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 25 7:30 p.m.

Monday, May 29 Holiday

O.W.L.S.: Unconditional Surrender McFarland Park Story County Conservation Partners Meeting McFarland Park Fly Tying McFarland Park Partners Spring Festival McFarland Park Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park Master River Stewards Program: Part 1 McFarland Park Master River Stewards Program: Part 2 McFarland Park TEAM Day Pleasant Valley Church Master River Stewards Program: Part 3 McFarland Park Master River Stewards Program: Part 4 McFarland Park Evening Prairie Walk Doolittle Prairie Story County Trails Advisory Committee Meeting McFarland Park Story County Conservation Offices Closed

JUNE Thursday, June 1 Friday, June 2 Monday, June 5 Thursday, June 8 June 8 - 9 Saturday, June 10 June 12 - 16 Thursday, June 15 Friday, June 16 Saturday, June 17 June 19 - 20 Thursday, June 21 Thursday, June 22 June 22 - 23 June 26 - 29 Thursday, June 29 June 29 - 30

5:30 p.m.

8:45 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. a.m. & p.m.

5:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. a.m. & p.m.

7:30 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

Master River Stewards Program: Part 5 McFarland Park Evening Exploration McFarland Park Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park Master River Stewards Program: Part 6 McFarland Park FLOAT I McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park TEAM Day Soper’s Mill North Frogs Camp A, Waterbugs Camp A McFarland Park Master River Stewards Program: Part 7 McFarland Park Naturalist Lunch Box - Jumping Frogs McFarland Park Butterfly Field Day McFarland Park FLOAT I McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park FLOAT V Training Day McFarland Park Evening Prairie Walk Doolittle Prairie FLOAT I McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park Polliwogs Camp A McFarland Park Story County Trails Advisory Committee Meeting McFarland Park FLOAT I McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park

JULY Tuesday, July 4 Thursday, July 6 July 6 - 7 Friday, July 7 Monday, July 10 Wednesday, July 12 July 13 - 18 July 24 - 28 July 25 - 28 Thursday, July 27 July 31 - Aug 4 Monday, July 31

Holiday 6:30 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

6:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

Story County Conservation Offices Closed Story County Conservation Partners Meeting McFarland Park FLOAT III McFarland Park & throughout Story County Naturalist Lunch Box - Animal Stories and Songs McFarland Park Story County Conservation Board Meeting McFarland Park Eco Arts and Theatre Camp McFarland Park FLOAT V Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park Frogs Camp B, Waterbugs Camp B McFarland Park Polliwogs Camp B McFarland Park Evening Prairie Walk Doolittle Prairie Frogs Camp B, Waterbugs Camp B McFarland Park Paddle Boarding Basics West Peterson Park

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER *Sneak Peek* August 2 - 4 9:00 a.m.

Thursday, August 3 5:30 p.m.

August 8 - 9 9:00 a.m.

Thursday, August 24 7:00 p.m.

Friday, August 18 7:00 p.m.

September 7 - 11 6:30 a.m.

September 22 - 24

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FLOAT IV Trip to Clinton, Iowa Master River Stewards Program: Part 8 McFarland Park FLOAT II McFarland Park Evening Prairie Walk Doolittle Prairie Boundary Water Adventure Pre-trip Meeting McFarland Park Boundary Waters Adventure Grand Marais, Minnesota Wild Women of the Woods Hickory Grove Park

Story County Conservation • 515-232-2516

Give A Gift That Will Last All Year!

With the gift of a Story County Conservation Partners membership, a family or individual can enjoy a year of involvement! Recipients will receive a nature-themed magnet, a 10% discount on all programs, facility rentals, and merchandise, and the Prairie Horizons newsletter! The Red Fox membership level and above will be recognized for their support in the conservation center at McFarland Park.

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

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

Thank You!

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

Thank you to the following for their generosity: Cash donation for prairie seeding, harvest, storage Cindy Hildebrand & Roger Maddux Cash donation towards environmental education Jim Trow Cash donations in memory of Nancy Clark Numerous friends and family

Story County Conservation Board

Dr. Nancy Franz, Ames - Chair Dr. James Pease, Ames - Vice Chair Craig Meyers, Nevada - Secretary Ted Tedesco, Ames Rick Sanders, Ames - Ex Officio Member One position open

Story County Conservation Director

Cash donation Michaela Carlson

Michael Cox

Cash donation towards hiring a Conservation Corps Iowa crew Big Bluestem Audubon Society

The Story County Conservation Board meets monthly at the Story County Conservation Center at McFarland Park (56461 180th St.), northeast of Ames.

This booklet is brought to you with support from Story County Conservation Partners. Partners was formed in 1996 to help produce the newsletter. Since then, Partners has expanded its support of Story County Conservation to include funding and support of various conservation projects, spring and fall festivals, and the Partners Photo Contest. Partners members are people who continue to make a difference with financial, volunteer, and program support.

Volume 21 Number 2 www.storycountyconservation.org

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

STORY COUNTY CONSERVATION 56461 180th STREET AMES, IA 50010-9451

O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Seniors) O.W.L.S. programs are held each month at 11 a.m. at the Story County Conservation Center.

These are designed for “boomers” or older – but anyone can attend.

An optional luncheon follows the program for just $7.50.

Register for lunch at www.storycountyconservation.org or call 515-232-2516.

Unconditional Surrender: A Visit with Ulysses S. Grant Peter Grady Tuesday, May 2

Ulysses S. Grant comes to life in this informative, humorous, and touching portrayal by Peter Grady.

Meet the victorious general whose strategy and tenacity won the Civil War, the president who struggled to rebuild his country, and the husband and father whose final efforts were devoted to support of his wife and family.

Register for lunch by 4 p.m., Friday, April 28. Menu: Baked potato bar (chili, broccoli, bacon bits, warm cheese, butter, sour cream, ham, salsa), peach crisp.

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O.W.L.S. programs take a short break over the summer.

See you again in September!