Night Creek Stomp

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary nighttime adventure amidst the Flint Creek at Starr's Cave on Wednesday, August 13th. Prepare for an experience like no other as we invite you to join our Night Creek Stomp program. The program will be at 8:30 PM until 10:00 PM and is free to attend. Explore the hidden mysteries of the creek under the enchanting night sky, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.

Come equipped with water shoes and headlamps, you'll embark on a guided journey through the creek bed. As you traverse the cool waters, you'll discover a whole new world teeming with life after dark. Listen to the enchanting chorus of frogs, witness the mesmerizing dance of fireflies, and encounter other nocturnal creatures along the way.

This captivating adventure is suitable for all ages, providing an opportunity for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts to bond and create lasting memories. Make sure to wear proper clothing and bring a headlamp if you have one as we have a limited number for use.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness the allure of the nocturnal world and forge a deeper connection with the natural wonders that surround us!

Give us a call at Starr's Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808 with any questions. We look forward to having you join us!

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808
hansens@dmcounty.com
Website

Posted by: Conservation

DMCC Ladies Adventure Group Evening Paddle

Join the Des Moines County Conservation Ladies Adventure Group for our first-ever meeting—an evening paddling adventure at Big Hollow on Tuesday, August 19th from 6:00-7:30 PM! We’ll be meeting at the playground in the campgrounds before heading out on the water.
Enjoy a relaxing time on the water, connect with other adventurous women, and take in the beauty of Big Hollow Lake. The cost is just $5 per person, and all experience levels are welcome. Space is limited, so don’t wait—register soon or message us for more information. We can’t wait to kick off this new group with you on the water!

Space is limited, don't forget to register! Sign up today at dmcconservation.recdesk.com. For more information, call the Nature Center at 319-753-5808 or visit the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page for updates.

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808
hansens@dmcounty.com
Website

Posted by: Conservation

All About Monarchs

At Big Hollow Recreation Area's Hickory Shelter on Sunday, September 14th, starting at 11 AM till 12:30 PM, Des Moines County Conservation is all about Monarch Butterflies! During this program you will learn all about the beautiful Monarch Butterfly and what you can do to promote healthy habitat for this butterfly and other pollinators in Iowa. You will also have the opportunity to participate in citizen science by tagging Monarch butterflies!

Every year, thousands of Monarch Butterflies migrate from the Midwest to overwinter in the Oyamel Fir Forests of Mexico. Citizen scientists east of the Rocky Mountains mark captured butterflies with special tags to identify individuals. When they arrive in Mexico the tags are retrieved, giving scientists valuable information to promote the conservation of this fascinating species.

Bring the whole family and come take part in this program at Big Hollow Recreation Area's Hickory Shelter! Call Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808 to learn more about this free program! See less

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808

Posted by: Conservation

All About Monarchs

At Big Hollow Recreation Area's Hickory Shelter on Sunday, September 14th, starting at 11 AM till 12:30 PM, Des Moines County Conservation is all about Monarch Butterflies! During this program you will learn all about the beautiful Monarch Butterfly and what you can do to promote healthy habitat for this butterfly and other pollinators in Iowa. You will also have the opportunity to participate in citizen science by tagging Monarch butterflies!

Every year, thousands of Monarch Butterflies migrate from the Midwest to overwinter in the Oyamel Fir Forests of Mexico. Citizen scientists east of the Rocky Mountains mark captured butterflies with special tags to identify individuals. When they arrive in Mexico the tags are retrieved, giving scientists valuable information to promote the conservation of this fascinating species.

Bring the whole family and come take part in this program at Big Hollow Recreation Area's Hickory Shelter! Call Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808 to learn more about this free program! See less

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808

Posted by: Conservation

DMCC Ladies Adventure Group Huron Flatts Monarch Tagging

Join the Des Moines County Conservation Ladies Adventure Group for a morning of monarch butterfly tagging at Huron Flatts.Tuesday, September 16th, 2025. Van departs from Starr’s Cave at 9:30 AM and returns at 12:30 PM

Come enjoy the outdoors, learn about monarch conservation, and be part of an unforgettable experience.

This is a free event, but van space is limited to 12 participants, so be sure to preregister. Open to women 18 and older.

Sign up today at dmcconservation.recdesk.com. For more information, call the Nature Center at 319-753-5808 or visit the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page for updates.

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808
hansens@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation