Polk County Conservation

09/02/2026

Exploring nature, together because the best adventures at Easter Lake Park are the ones we share.

08/30/2026

Your nature oasis awaits. Customize your dream wedding or event at the Jester Park Lodge, where affordability meets breathtaking views. Book your date today!

Book at the link in the comments.

08/30/2026

Reduce your stress, calm your mind, track your personal growth, and process your emotions through the power of journaling. Polk County Conservation is hosting two journal-centric programs revolving around the power of expressing your emotions on paper while in nature.

Journaling events:
- Nature Quest: Nature Journaling | September 12, register by September 9
- Nature Immersion: Approaching the Equinox with Nature Journaling | September 18, register by September 15

Click the link in the comments to register for these events.

08/25/2026

August is the warm‑up act for one of nature’s greatest migrations! 🦋

Monarch movement in Iowa peaks in September, led by the “Super Generation" (monarchs that live 6–7 months instead of just a few weeks). These long‑lived travelers fuel up in our prairies and parks before beginning their incredible journey all the way to central Mexico. Keep an eye on blooming native flowers… the monarchs are gathering!

08/25/2026

Watch the progress of Hubbell Trailhead!

The Hubbell Trailhead will include a whitewater feature, kayak launch and boat ramp, along with a recreation channel, among other amenities.

A live construction camera has been installed at the site – you can follow progress here:
https://app.oxblue.com/cameras/a937e0d2592e46c030cc5703bd55fc72?openlink=multivista/ICONwatertrailsllc

08/22/2026

Take a look inside the Jester Park Nature Center with Iowa Realty 's Home Show as they explore the greatness of the outdoors with us ☀️

Cassandra Halls goes to one of Iowa's leading nature centers that i...

08/21/2026

Join the Iowa Master Naturalist course this Fall at Jester Park Nature Center!

Classes run Saturdays from 12:30pm to 3:30 pm, starting September 19 through December 5. After training, gain hands-on experience with 40 hours of nature-related volunteer work for certification.

Cost: $250 for 40 hours of instruction and materials.

For more info, email [email protected] or visit IowaMasterNaturalists.org! 🌿🦋

08/20/2026

Stay informed with Polk County Conservation's Water Ecologist, Amanda Brown, as she discusses the safety of our water 💧

08/18/2026

Athene North Shore Recreation Area is located conveniently nearby at beautiful Easter Lake Park in the southeast corner of Des Moines, Iowa.

The park features accessible single-user restrooms, including one with a child/adult universal changing station, a Wellness Room for nursing mothers and those who need quiet space, an inclusive playground with a variety of equipment and sensory experiences, and more. Plus, accessible signs and wide paved pathways make exploring the park fun for everyone.

Explore Athene North Shore Recreation Area today!

08/16/2026

Enjoy the state fair for the animals but not the crowds? Check out Polk County Conservation's Bison and Elk exhibit or Raptor Mew at Jester Park, or take a short trip to Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt to see our goats snack on invasive plants! 🐐🌿

📸:Lee Navin