Seed harvesting by moonlight

On Oct. 24, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and the Polk County Conservation Board hosted their first ever moonlight seed harvest. On a slightly spooky night, the nearly-full moon peaked out of the clouds, leaving only dancing headlamps visible (and seeds, of course).

About 25 volunteers and a few Boy Scout troops came out to Chichaqua Bottoms, armed with headlamps and glow sticks. The group was ready to collect roundhead bush clover by moonlight.

At the end of the night volunteers were treated to a cozy bonfire, complete with s’mores and apple cider.

It was a great event for children and adults alike, and INHF hopes to host more night harvests. “It was a first-of-its-kind event for us,” said Mary Runkel, INHF volunteer coordinator. “The event seemed appropriate for the time of year, and it was a fun way to get kids onto the prairie and learn about species and the prairie habitat.”

Look for more volunteer opportunities on our website, and stay up to date by checking our volunteer schedule!