March 2026 Department Updates
March marks the official start of spring! Jump into the season with Des Moines County Conservation!Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
The I Heart County Parks Fundraising Banquet is just around the corner! Don’t miss your chance to support YOUR county parks by joining us for an evening of great food, fun company, raffles, and both live and silent auctions. Purchase your tickets today and help support parks, trails, and environmental education in Des Moines County! The banquet is on April 4th beginning at 5:30 PM at Barn on the Ridge.
Upcoming Events
Shed Hunting
Join us for a family-friendly Shed Hunting Program on Tuesday, March 17th from 4:00–5:00 PM at Leopold Recreation Area. Discover the fascinating world of shed antlers while enjoying a guided hike to search for these natural treasures. Each year, male deer naturally shed their antlers as daylight increases and hormone levels change after the breeding season. This is the peak time of year to search for sheds! This program is open to all ages, but registration is required. Please dress for the weather and stay informed about any cancellations or changes by checking the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page or by calling (319) 753-5808.
Milk Jug Greenhouse Workshop
Calling all gardeners! Learn how to extend your growing season by creating your own mini greenhouse using a recycled milk jug. This hands-on workshop will teach winter sowing and seed-starting techniques using common household materials. Participants will build and take home their own milk jug greenhouse. The program is $5 per person and requires registration. Join a naturlist on Thursday, March 19th from 6:00–7:00 PM at Starr’s Cave Nature Center.
Insect Study and Pinning
Have you ever wondered how scientists create insect displays? Join a naturalist on March 20th from 6:00-7:30 PM at Starr’s Cave Nature Center to create your own framed, preserved insect specimen. Participants will examine insect anatomy under a microscope while learning about the important roles insects play in our ecosystems. Space is limited to 12 participants. This program is $15 and is open to ages 14 and older. Register today to secure your spot!
Master Gardeners Presentation
Des Moines County Master Gardeners will present information about tree planting, tree care, and the important relationships between trees and wildlife. This program will be held on March 28th from 1:00–4:00 PM at Starr’s Cave Nature Center and is open to the public.
Hunter’s Education Field Day
Hunter education is designed to introduce participants to essential outdoor skills that support safe and responsible recreation. This course covers survival and first aid skills, water safety, wildlife identification, wildlife management basics, hunting laws, and firearm and archery safety. This class is on March 28th from 1:00–5:00 PM at the Big Hollow Recreation Area Shooting Range. Register online here, space is limited.
Starr’s Cave Nature Center Weekend Volunteers
Weekend hours at Starr’s Cave Nature Center will resume the first weekend in April and continue through the last weekend in September. Volunteers are needed to help staff the nature center on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4:00 PM. This relaxed volunteer opportunity includes greeting visitors, opening exhibits, and assisting with light cleaning. Whether you can volunteer for multiple weekends or just one day, your help makes a difference during this busy season. Interested volunteers can contact Marcus at 319-753-5808 for more information.
Meetings and Volunteer Opportunities
The monthly Conservation Board Meeting will be held March 4th at 5:30 PM at Starr’s Cave Nature Center. The public is always welcome to attend.
The Friends of Des Moines County Parks group will host a campground cleanup day on March 21 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at Welter Recreation Campground near Augusta. Volunteers will help with litter and debris cleanup, setting out picnic tables, and painting restrooms in preparation for the upcoming camping season. Everyone is welcome to help!
Plan Your Outdoor Adventures
It’s never too early to start planning your outdoor adventures! Camping and cabin reservations are beginning to fill for the year, so secure your spot now and start looking forward to your next outdoor getaway.
published Tuesday, March 3, 2026
