Events

OWLS Program "Inventions Inspired by Nature"

Nature has inspired many of the inventions we use every day. In this program, discover how people have looked to plants, animals, and natural systems for creative ideas and solutions. We’ll also explore how people learned to make maple syrup from tree sap and finish with a sample of homemade maple syrup!

You can also sign up by calling (641)673-9327 or emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov. You can also sign up using this link:

OWLS Program "Inventions Inspired by Nature" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Knee-High Naturalists "Nature Hike"

This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger.

This month, get ready to splash and explore! Kids will enjoy hands-on water stations to discover which objects float or sink, try painting with water, and cool off with fun water play activities. Dress to get wet and come ready for a fun, interactive morning exploring the wonders of water!

Pre-registration is needed by using this link: Knee-High Naturalists "Nature Hike" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com.

A minimum of 5 kids are needed to hold the program.

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that is the WIERDEST one you own to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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"The Feather Wars" Meet Author James H. McCommons

Note:  Doors will open at 6:00 pm to help guests find a seat.

We’re excited to announce that Book Vault & Mahaska County Conservation are partnering to bring author James H. McCommons to Mahaska County!

McCommons is the author of the newly released “The Feather Wars”. When food, fashion, market forces, and even scientific inquiry demanded the deaths of birds, a colorful cast of turn-of-the-century Americans rose up in protest. James H. McCommons’ insightful history chronicles battles for bird protection in every corner of the country, waged with words and images and sometimes with guns. The Feather Wars is a reminder of the power of grassroots conservation and a plea to continue the fight.”—Melissa L. Sevigny, author of Brave the Wild River. The list of characters of this conservation movement includes Oskaloosan John F. Lacey, William T. Hornaday & Ding Darling. Books are available now at Book Vault and will be available at the event.

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OWLS Program

OWLS Program "Playscape Picnic"

Adults of all ages are invited to join O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) for a relaxing picnic lunch at the Nature Playscape gazebo.

Bring your own lunch and drink, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others. After lunch, learn about upcoming projects and events from the Mahaska County Conservation Board—we’re excited to share what’s happening in our parks!

In case of rain, the picnic will move indoors. Pre-registration is needed. You can sign up online here, call (641)673-9327, or email decook@mahakacountyia.gov.

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Nature Playscape Lunch & Learn "Frog-tastic Facts"

Bring your lunch and join us outdoors in the Nature Playscape pergola!

Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly program while discovering fun and fascinating facts about frogs - like how they absorb water through their skin, use their powerful legs to jump up to 20 times their body length, and serve as important indicators of environmental health. All ages are welcome. Pre-registration is NOT needed. Just hop on over and join us with your lunch!

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B.A.R.K. Ranger Hike

Join us for a fun, dog-friendly hike at Caldwell Park!

We’ll meet in the amphitheater area next to the Environmental Learning Center before heading out on the trail. Please remember that all dogs must remain on a leash at all times. All dogs will receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate, and Mahaska County B.A.R.K. Ranger dog tags will also be available for purchase for $10 each (cash or check payable to FMCC).

Pre-registration is needed.  Sign up using this link: B.A.R.K. Ranger Hike @ Caldwell Park - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that has a story to why you have it to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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Reel In the Fun Fishing Event @ Lacey Sports Complex

Meet us at the ponds at Lacey Recreation Complex for a friendly competition with awards for the longest fish, smallest fish, and most fish caught!

No fishing license is needed since it is Free Fishing Weekend in Iowa, making this a perfect opportunity for families and beginners to give fishing a try.

Fishing poles and bait will be provided, or you’re welcome to bring your own gear.  Look for our awning and tables to find us and sign up on site.

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Volunteer Training (afternoon session)

If you would like to join the Mahaska County Conservation's volunteer team, come to our one-hour training on Monday, June 8th at the Environmental Learning Center. Please sign up for one of two sessions by calling us at (641)673-9327, email decook@mahaskacountyia.gov or sign up online using this link: Volunteer Training (Afternoon Session) - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

The afternoon session will be held from 1:00-2:00 pm and the evening session from 5:30-6:30 pm.

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Volunteer Training (evening session)

If you would like to join the Mahaska County Conservation's volunteer team, come to our one-hour training on Monday, June 8th at the Environmental Learning Center. Please sign up for one of two sessions by calling us at (641)673-9327, email decook@mahaskacountyia.gov or sign up online with this link: Volunteer Training (Evening Session) - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

The afternoon session will be held from 1:00-2:00 pm and the evening session from 5:30-6:30 pm.

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Nature Playscape Lunch & Learn "Plants to Know: Invasive & Toxic Plants"

Bring your lunch and join us outdoors in the Nature Playscape pergola!

Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly program while learning about invasive and toxic plants—like how some invasive species spread quickly and outcompete native plants, how certain plants can be harmful to people and pets, and how to identify common species found in our area. All ages are welcome. Pre-registration is NOT needed. Just drop in and join us with your lunch!

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Discovery Camp "Animal Adventures"

Join us for a fun and engaging Discovery Camp designed especially for children ages 5 and younger! Each child must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $10 per child, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC).

After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration Link: Discovery Camp "Animal Adventures" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this exciting day, kids will:

• Learn about animals and their habitats,
• Go on an adventure hike to look for animals
• Discover how animals move
• Play fun, interactive games Enjoy stories and nature-based activities

Come explore, learn, and have fun in the great outdoors!

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Discovery Camp "Pollinator Party"

Join us for a fun and engaging Pollinator Party at Discovery Camp designed especially for children ages 5 and younger!

Each child must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $10 per child, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC).  Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.  After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email.

Registration Link: Discovery Camp "Pollinator Party" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this exciting day, kids will:

• Learn about the importance of pollinators 
• Discover how pollination works and who pollinates
• Explore the world of insects
• Create a fun craft
• Enjoy stories

Come celebrate pollinators and have a buzzing good time!

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Playscape Lunch & Learn "Mammals of Iowa"

Bring your lunch and join us outdoors in the Nature Playscape pergola!

After lunch stick around to learn about the fascinating mammals that call Iowa home! Participants will have the opportunity to see and touch real pelts from a variety of local wildlife while learning about each animal’s habitat, behavior, and role in the ecosystem. This hands-on program is a great way to connect with Iowa’s wildlife and gain a deeper appreciation for the animals around us.

Pre-registration is NOT needed. Just drop in and join us with your lunch!

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Challenge Camp "Field to Table: Fishing Edition"

Join us for an exciting and hands-on Challenge Camp designed for youth ages 10–17!

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration Link: Challenge Camp "Field to Table: Fishing Edition" - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this action-packed day, participants will:

• Go fishing and learn how to catch fish
• Practice different casting techniques
• Learn how to properly fillet a fish
• Cook and enjoy the fish they catch

All fishing equipment and bait will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own gear if they prefer. Come experience the full journey from field to table and enjoy a day of outdoor adventure!

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Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics"

Join us for an exciting and hands-on Challenge Camp designed for youth ages 10–17!

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration link: Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this action-packed day, participants will:

• Learn how animals move and identify their tracks
• Create a fun (and edible!) “scat snack”
• Solve a wildlife crime scene using clues and observation skills
• Learn about trapping and wildlife management

Come put your detective skills to the test and explore the wild side of nature!

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Jr. Naturalist Camp "Nature Detectives"

Jr. Naturalist Camp: Nature Detectives (Ages 6–9)

Get ready to become a nature detective! This fun and hands-on camp is designed for youth ages 6–9 who are curious about the outdoors.

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration Link: Jr. Naturalist Camp "Nature Detectives" - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this exciting day, kids will:

• Learn how to identify which animals made different tracks
• Discover how to “read” tracks to understand what animals were doing
• Dig for fossils like real paleontologists
• Create a fun (and edible!) “scat snack”

Join us for a day of exploring, investigating, and uncovering the secrets of nature!

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Jr. Naturalist Camp "Predators & Prey"

Jr. Naturalist Camp: Predators & Prey (Ages 6–9)

Get ready to explore the wild world of predators and prey! This fun and hands-on camp is designed for youth ages 6–9 who are curious about how animals survive in nature.

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email.  Please bring your completed form and payment to camp.

Registration Link: Jr. Naturalist Camp "Predators & Prey" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this exciting day, kids will:

• Learn about the relationships between predators and prey animals
• Discover how camouflage and animal senses help animals survive 
• Test their skills in a fun obstacle course to escape a predator
• Play interactive games that bring these concepts to life

Join us for a day of adventure, learning, and wild fun in nature!

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Nature Playscape Lunch & Learn "Firefly Magic: Bioluminescence"

Bring your lunch and join us outdoors in the Nature Playscape pergola!

After lunch, discover the magic behind nature’s glowing lights! We’ll explore the basics of fireflies and learn how and why they glow. Participants will be introduced to bioluminescence—the natural ability of living things to produce light—and how fireflies use their flashes to communicate. We’ll also learn about the firefly life cycle, their habitat, and why they are important to our ecosystem. Through fun activities and demonstrations, we’ll bring the glow of fireflies to life—even in the daytime!

Pre-registration is NOT needed. Just drop in and join us with your lunch!

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Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics"

Join us for an exciting and hands-on Challenge Camp designed for youth ages 10–17!

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration Link: Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this action-packed day, participants will:

• Learn how animals move and identify their tracks
• Create a fun (and edible!) “scat snack”
• Solve a wildlife crime scene using clues and observation skills
• Learn about trapping and wildlife management

Come put your detective skills to the test and explore the wild side of nature!

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OWLS Program "Nature: A Native Plant Walk & Drawing Session"

Adults of all ages are welcome to join the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program. This month, we will take a walk around the nature playscape, then take a closer look. After exploring native plants together, we’ll gather for a fun and low-pressure drawing session inspired by what we’ve seen. No experience needed—just curiosity! We’ll provide all the supplies and guide you through simple techniques to help you get started.

Pre-registration is needed to reserve a seat. Please call (641) 673-9327, email decook@mahaskacountyia.gov, or register online using this link: OWLS Program "Nature: A Native Plant Walk & Drawing Session" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Nature Documentary "Ghost of the Mountains"

Few animals capture the human imagination quite like the snow leopard. With its striking beauty and endangered status, this elusive creature serves as a powerful symbol of the impact humans have on the natural world. This documentary explores the life and habitat of the snow leopard, while also highlighting the challenges faced by filmmakers as they journeyed into remote landscapes to capture this remarkable animal in the wild.

Pre-registration is needed to reserve a seat.

Registration Link: Nature Documentary "Ghost of the Mountains" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Knee-High Naturalists "Water Wonders"

This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger. This month, get ready to splash and explore! Kids will enjoy hands-on water stations to discover which objects float or sink, try painting with water, and cool off with fun water play activities. Dress to get wet and come ready for a fun, interactive morning exploring the wonders of water!

Pre-registration is needed. A minimum of 5 kids are needed to hold the program.

Registration Link: Knee-High Naturalists "Water Wonders" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Paws-itively Fun Selfie Scavenger Hunt

Grab your dog and your cell phone and join us for a fun and unique outdoor adventure! As you explore, use the scavenger hunt list to find different items and snap a selfie with your dog at each stop. After the event, some of our favorite photos will be shared on Mahaska County Conservation’s Facebook page!

We will meet at the amphitheater next to the Environmental Learning Center. All dogs will receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate, and Mahaska County B.A.R.K. Ranger dog tags will also be available for purchase for $10 each (cash or check payable to FMCC).

Pre-registration is needed.

Registration Link: Paws-itively Fun Selfie Scavenger Hunt - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that has the colors RED, WHITE & BLUE on it to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing

Step back in time and try your hand at one of the oldest hunting tools in the world! Participants will learn the history of the atlatl—a spear-throwing device used by ancient cultures thousands of years ago to hunt large game—and discover how it helped early people survive. After learning the basics, kids will practice proper technique and develop their skills by throwing atlatl darts at targets. The atlatl works by extending the arm, allowing for greater speed and distance than throwing by hand alone.

Pre-registration is needed. Registration Link: Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

A minimum of 5 kids are needed to hold the program.

Note: This skill is easiest for kids ages 6 and older.

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Fun With Blank Park Zoo!

The Blank Park Zoo is returning to the Environmental Learning Center!  Join us for a fun and WILD time as we learn all about animals and how we take action for wildlife to protect their habitat. We will explore different habitats and learn about the endangered animals that live there. Discover how small actions can make big impacts on the wild.

Doors will open at 5:15 pm to help you get a seat.  Come early and enjoy the nature playscape just outside the ELC!

Registration is NOT needed.  All ages are welcome!

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Evening Fossil Hunt (all ages)

Join us for a hands-on fossil hunt and discover pieces of ancient life hidden beneath your feet! Search for fossilized horn corals, brachiopods, trilobites, and clam shells—remnants of a time when this area was once covered by water. Digging tools, collection baggies, and identification sheets will be provided. This fun, treasure-hunting experience is perfect for anyone who loves exploring and getting their hands a little dirty.

Pre-registration is needed with this link: Evening Fossil Hunt - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

DIRECTIONS: Russell Wildlife Area is located at 2254-200th Street, New Sharon, IA 50207. We will meet at the double gates next to the first pond seen by the road. Follow the lane to the south side of the pond.

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OWLS Program "Honeybees & Beekeeping"

Adults of all ages are invited to join the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program. This month, guest speaker Bri Marshall will represent the Back-to-Basics Bee Club as the Honey Queen and share her knowledge of honeybees and beekeeping. Come learn about the fascinating world of bees, their importance to our ecosystem, and what it takes to care for a hive.

Pre-registration is needed. You can sign up here, by calling (641)673-9327, or emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov.

Registration Link: OWLS Program "Honeybees & Beekeeping" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Knee-High Naturalists "Let's Go Fishing"

This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger.

This month, introduce your little one to the fun of fishing! Kids can enjoy time by the water with a parent or caregiver while learning the basics of fishing in a relaxed, hands-on setting. No experience is necessary! Staff will be on hand to help out. Fishing poles and bait will be provided, or you’re welcome to bring your own gear. We recommend bringing water to drink, a snack, and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on while fishing. Come enjoy a fun and memorable outdoor experience together!

Pre-registration is needed using this link: Knee-High Naturalists "Let's Go Fishing" - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program.

Directions to pond: Russell Wildlife Area is located at 2254-200th Street, New Sharon, IA 50207. We will meet at the double gates next to the first pond seen by the road. Follow the lane to the south side of the pond.

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Sunset Picnic at the Playscape

Grab your picnic basket and head to Nature Playscape! Enjoy a meal surrounded by nature, then join in on some fun outdoor games for all ages. This is a great way for families to unwind, play, and explore together. We'll meet at the playscape pergola by the Environmental Learning Center.

Pre-registration is not needed. Just drop in and join us with your picnic food!

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug of your choice AND A FRIEND to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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