February 2026 Department Updates

Winter is in full swing, and there’s plenty happening at Des Moines County Conservation! From cozy cabin stays to hands-on outdoor adventures, February is the perfect time to enjoy your county parks.

Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician

I Heart County Parks Banquet

Save the date for the annual I Heart County Parks Banquet on April 4th! Enjoy a BBQ dinner, raffles, auctions, and an evening of FUNdraising with family and friends. All proceeds support Des Moines County Conservation parks and programs. Tickets and sponsorships are now available!

Upcoming February Events

Ladies Adventure Group: Owl Prowl – February 12
Ladies 18+ are invited to explore the nighttime world of owls. This guided evening begins with a short presentation, followed by a night hike using recorded owl calls. January and February are peak months for Barred Owl activity, so with a little luck, you may hear these birds.
Space is limited. Register on RecDesk.

Ice Fishing Clinic – February 14
Learn the basics of ice fishing at Big Hollow Recreation Area! For just $5, this hands-on clinic covers ice safety, equipment, and fishing techniques. All fishing gear is provided—just dress warmly and come ready for a fun winter morning outdoors.
Note: This event is weather and ice-condition dependent. Register on RecDesk.

Public Owl Prowls – February 19 & 26
Join a naturalist for an evening adventure for all ages! Participants will learn about local owls and call for owls during a 2-mile night hike. With Barred Owls actively searching for mates, this is a great time to listen and look for owls in the wild.
Registration required via RecDesk or by calling 319-753-5808.

Starr’s Cave Field Day – February 28
Help care for your parks by assisting with invasive species removal and trail care at Starr’s Cave! More details coming soon! Watch the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page for updates.

Office Closures

Our office will be closed:

February 2 for a staff work day
February 16 in observance of Presidents Day

Meetings

Des Moines County Conservation Board Meeting
February 4 | 5:30 PM
Starr’s Cave Nature Center
The public is welcome to attend.

Friends of Des Moines County Parks Meeting
February 17 | 6:00 PM
Starr’s Cave Nature Center
This volunteer group supports local parks and trails and is always looking to welcome new members! Fourteen people attended the most recent meeting. The group meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM, typically at Starr’s Cave Nature Center. Their primary focus right now is raising funds to repair the Hickory Shelter House at Big Hollow.

Ice Conditions at Big Hollow

As of late January, ice thickness at Big Hollow Lake measured approximately 5-6 inches in most areas. Anglers are reporting catches of black crappie. Remember to always check ice thickness yourself as conditions can change within just a few steps.

Cabin Stays at Big Hollow

Big Hollow Recreation Area offers two unique cabin experiences:

Ranger Cabin – Full amenities, available year-round
Wilson Foundation Off Grid Cabin – Primitive stay available April through October

Make your reservations for 2026 now and plan your next county park adventure!

published Thursday, January 29, 2026