— THE LATEST —
Timely and brief updates on ongoing projects
Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor Connector Trail
Travel is again possible on the former Ames to Kelly railroad line. The new off-road trail links the Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor on the south side of Ames to the R38 roadside trail to Slater. Slater is a hub of paved, off-road trails: The Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, the High Trestle Trail, and the Ankeny Trail. A private fundraising effort is helping to further enhance the newly opened Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor Connector Trail. This public/private partnership will boost the corridor’s value for people and wildlife alike. The corridor will be enhanced over time as native plants take root, habitat becomes established, and wildlife flourishes. Benches, bird houses, and interpretive signs will also be added. The trail enhancements are expected to cost about $32,000. Find out more about this effort on our website or search for Tedesco Connector Trail Enhancements on GoFundMe.
McFarland Park
The park saw some changes this last fall! New trail markers make it easier to navigate through the park, goats did some great work at knocking back invasive species and thick understory along the Touch-A-Life Trail, park users can enjoy a new water fountain/water bottle filling station. We began the process of creating a watershed management plan for McFarland Lake, which is the first step in working towards lake restoration efforts. Visit our website for more information about how we plan to tackle the challenges the lake faces. While the conservation center has been closed to the public, environmental education displays have been revamped and new LED lights were installed in the lobby Grew up and multi-purpose hunting with room. his dad
Hunter Simmons
Savors time with his family
Retired from the US Air Force Likes to do woodworking
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Jake Smith
Served in the Marine Corps Reserves
Enjoys cooking and rock wall climbing
Welcome our two new Conservation Technicians! They will be based at Hickory Grove Park.
