August 2025 Department Updates
Get ready for a late summer packed with outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and fresh opportunities to connect with nature across Des Moines County!Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
Upcoming Events
Fishing & Trail Camera Workshop
August 8 | 12–2 PM | Gahn Recreation Area
Curious about hunting or fishing but unsure where to start? Join DMCC for a hands-on workshop at Gahn Recreation Area, part of the Hook & Hunt Mentorship Program. This low-traffic site offers a calm, welcoming space for beginners to learn fishing techniques and how to set up trail cameras. Whether you're looking to expand your outdoor skills or just getting started, this program will connect you with a mentor to guide your journey. Free to join, RSVP required. Call 319-753-5808 or email Marcus at nackm@dmcounty.com.
August 13 | 8:30–10 PM | Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve
Slip into the creek after dark and uncover the wonders of Flint Creek by moonlight! Bring a headlamp or net if you have one—we’ll have a limited supply on hand. Dress for getting wet, and be ready to discover nocturnal critters in this nighttime experience. Free and open to all!
Ladies Adventure Group: Evening Paddle
August 19 | 6–7:30 PM | Big Hollow Lake
Join our brand-new Ladies Adventure Group for an evening paddle on Big Hollow Lake! Enjoy peaceful time on the water, connect with other adventurous women, and soak in the summer evening. Open to women ages 18 and up. All experience levels are welcome.
Cost: $5 per person. Register here! Questions? Call 319-753-5808 or visit the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page.
Additional programs in this group include a Wildflower Walk on 9/24 and Archery/Hatchet Throwing on 10/9!
Hook & Hunt Clay Shoot @ Yarmouth
September 18 | 6 PM | Yarmouth Gun Club
Join 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. We’ll provide firearms, ear protection, and eye protection for anyone who needs them. RSVP by September 16th by calling 319-753-5808 or email Marcus at nackm@dmcounty.com.
July Highlights
New Handrails at Big Hollow
Thanks to Afinitas and the Mediapolis High School welding program, Big Hollow beach now features brand-new handrails! These look fantastic and will greatly improve accessibility for park visitors.
Summer Camp Adventures
From visiting the Heritage Museum to Big Sand Mound Preserve, campers had a busy July full of exploration and discovery. They paddled at Big Hollow Lake, fished at Leopold Recreation Area, and enjoyed riverside lunches at The Port of Burlington. Campers also hiked, hammocked, and stomped through Flint Creek at Starr’s Cave.
Starr’s Cave Night
About 35 visitors joined Naturalist Shania for Starr’s Cave Night, complete with s’mores by the campfire and visits from our turtle ambassadors.
New Archery Range at Starr’s Cave
The long-awaited archery range is now complete! Built with help from the Flint River Archery Club, the range debuted during Young Naturalist Camp and will be used in upcoming programs. Please note: This range is not open to the public and will only be accessible during DMCC programming.
Pollinator Garden Refresh
We’ve begun revamping the pollinator garden outside Starr’s Cave Nature Center. A weed barrier is in place to clear out invasives, and native seeds will be planted soon. The old flagpole has been removed and will be replaced. Stay tuned to watch this space bloom!
Water is Back!
We’re happy to report that running water has returned to Starr’s Cave Nature Center! Restrooms and indoor/outdoor drinking fountains are once again available for use.
Intern Send-Off
Our summer interns Grant, Kendall, and Trevor will be finishing up their terms this August. We’re so grateful for their hard work and energy this season. Best wishes to each of them in their next adventures!
We hope to see you out in YOUR county parks!
published Monday, August 4, 2025
