Calendar

O.W.L.S. programs are designed for "boomers" or older, but anyone can attend. No registration is required unless you would like to attend the optional luncheon that follows the program for just $7.50. If you would rather not register online, call our office at 515.232.2516. The Cats of America: Ancient History and Modern Conservation with Dr. Bill Clark, Emeritus Professor at ISU. We'll cover paleological history of cats that once roamed North America, modern cats including endangered and common species, and conclude with conservation challenges including habitat loss, climate change, conflicts, and hunting. Menu: Soup (choice of broccoli beer cheese, tomato bisque, chili), salad, bread, and mint Oreo fluff. Register and pay for lunch by 4pm on February 28.

Pause and relearn what life was before there was "an app for that." According to nationaldayofunplugging.com, March 6 is a time to commit to "a 24-hour global respite from technology. It highlights the value of disconnecting from digital devices to connect with ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities in real time." It is no secret that there has been a drastic increase in personal electronic use. U.S. consumers average five hours a day on a mobile device. And new data shows the average smartphone user checks their device 63 time a day. To show our support, we are offering a series of free programs at McFarland Park to help fill your time and mind during some of the most common times of day that we "plug in." Community Campfire, 6:30-7:30 pm: Campfires have been bringing people together for centuries. We will tell stories, sing songs, and celebrate the end of the day. You are welcome to stay after to enjoy the night! This program will be canceled if there's inclement weathe

The Story County Conservation Board invites the public to attend its monthly board meeting. Board agendas will be available at www.storycountyconservation.org the Friday prior to the meeting.

Common Ground is a statewide project that brings together people of all generations, ages, backgrounds, knowledge bases, places of residence, and political persuasions to give voice in their own words to the important role that the natural world plays in their lives. It aims to help people not only acknowledge their own connections to the natural world, but also build relationships with others who feel the same. We hope to show that—despite perceived differences—our common (though unique) experiences in nature are fertile ground for building relationships and coming together to work toward a collective goal: the protection of our natural resources. We will be collecting stories and photos from across the state and creating a public archive and exhibit. You have full control over your submissions to Common Ground and can elect how you wish to have your story and image shared publicly, if at all. Check http://bit.ly/CommonGroundProject for additional opportunities to participate.

Join Iowa DNR, Story County Conservation and Pheasants Forever for an exciting series of outdoor skills classes. 3/13, 5:30 - 7:30 PM When enjoying the outdoors, we are capable of altering each other’s experiences the for better or worse. Friday night at Hickory Grove Park will introduce you to Leave No Trace principles though hands-on activities and interactive discussions. Experience how easy it is recreate without a trace. (Includes Dinner) 3/14, 1-4 PM On Saturday, we will apply some of the Leave No Trace principles learned on Friday in the activities of fire building and building a survival shelter at McFarland Park. Staying warm and dry are two very important skills to have in any survival situation. (Includes Refreshments) 3/15, 1-5 PM On Sunday, the class will travel to Olofson Shooting Range near Polk City for an afternoon on the archery (round and 3D targets) and shooting ranges (including .22). (Includes Refreshments)

CANCELED DUE TO COVID 19 Let luminaries light your way around McFarland Lake on a special walk to welcome spring. End the experience with cocoa by a campfire. Walk is self-guided; complete luminary loop is about one mile. Dress in layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Participants must arrive by 8:30 p.m.; event ends at 9:00 p.m. Fee of $5 with registration is required by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13.

CANCELED DUE TO COVID 19 Composting and vermicomposting both use natural processes to turn organic material into a dark, rich humus that is great for your soil and garden. Join Cindy Haynes, horticulture specialist and Associate Professor at Iowa State University, as she provides the information and encouragement needed to start backyard composting and vermicomposting at home. Fee of $3 per adult (kids can attend for free) required with registration by 4pm on Tuesday, March 24.