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HHU - Dove Hunt

Get ready for a great dove hunt with Hook & Hunt University! We're creating a fun and supportive environment for hunters of all skill levels, pairing experienced mentors with those who are new to the sport. It's the perfect chance to learn, practice your skills, and enjoy the season with a great group of people.

The hunt will take place on Sunday, September 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Wapello Bottoms. You can choose to meet us there directly, or if you prefer, you can follow us from Starr's Cave.

We'll be hunting in accordance with all state hunting regulations. Please be sure to have your valid Iowa small game hunting license and be registered with the Harvest Information Program (HIP). If you were born after January 1, 1972, you'll also need a hunter education certificate. For those who may need it, we have some gear and equipment available upon request.
To make sure we have enough mentors for everyone, please be sure to RSVP to attend (319-753-5808). We can't wait to see you out there!

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

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

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.

Posted by: Conservation

Hook & Hunt Clay Shoot @ Yarmouth

Hook & Hunt University is partnering with the Yarmouth Gun Club for an evening of fun and shooting sports! Whether you're gearing up for hunting season or looking to try something new, come join us for a friendly round of clay shooting.

Cost: (Pay at event)

$14 for 25 clays with shells included

$6 for 25 clays if you bring your own shells

We’ll provide firearms, ear protection, and eye protection for anyone who needs them. Open to both adults and kids—beginners welcome!

RSVP by September 16th to secure your spot.

Let’s break some clays and get ready for the season ahead!

Posted by: Conservation

DMCC Ladies Adventure Group Wildflower Hike

Join the Des Moines County Conservation Ladies Adventure Group for a relaxing Wildflower Hike on Wednesday, September 24 from 5:00–6:30 PM at Big Hollow Recreation Area!
We’ll meet at the Observatory parking lot and take a short walk while learning about the beautiful wildflowers that call Iowa home. It’s a fun and easy way to connect with nature and other women who love the outdoors.
This is a FREE event, but pre-registration is required.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water—we’ll provide the wildflowers and good company.

Posted by: Conservation

HHU Squirrel Hunt Scramble

HHU Squirrel Hunt Scramble

Hook & Hunt University is hosting the Squirrel Hunt Scramble at Gahn Recreation Area — a location with limited public use, making it a quiet and ideal setting for learning in the field.

Participants will break into small groups led by experienced mentors to hunt squirrels. This event is open to both new and experienced hunters and is designed to provide a supportive environment to build hunting skills, learn about squirrel behavior and habitat, and practice safe firearm handling.

Event Details
Location: Gahn Recreation Area
Date: September 28th
Time: 8:00am-10:00am

Requirements:

Valid small game hunting license

RSVP required

Gear is available for those who need

The Squirrel Hunt Scramble is a great opportunity for HHU mentors and mentees to connect in the field while gaining practical experience.

For more information or to RSVP, Marcus at nackm@dmcounty.com, or call 319-753-5808 

Posted by: Conservation