Join Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and Polk County Conservation for a moonlit evening restoring the prairie at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt. We will harvest native prairie seed to diversify and expand the prairie under the setting sun and rising Hunter’s Moon.
Following the harvest, we’ll gather around a campfire to enjoy s’mores and celebrate autumn in good company under the waxing moon. Ages 0 – 99 are encouraged to don a costume and partake in Trunk or Treat activities, with a conservation spin, at the bonfire for candy!
It is recommended to bring a headlamp or flashlight for this event. Free group tent camping is provided for all registered participants.
*exact directions to the harvest location and free group camping will be provided to those who have registered.
REGISTRATION: Required; Registration opens Sept. 4 and ends noon the day before.
DEADLINE: Noon the day before
COST: Free
AGES: All ages welcome
PLEASE NOTE: we will be working in the dark and walking on uneven terrain. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, long pants and bring a headlamp or flashlight – if you have one.
Partners
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, Polk County Conservation
About Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt encompasses nearly ten miles of reconstructed and remnant prairie, oxbows, marshes and wetlands along the Skunk River in Polk and Jasper Counties. It is home to a diverse mix of plants, wildlife and an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Since 1993, INHF has helped the Polk County Conservation Board (PCCB) and Iowa Department of Natural (DNR) expand Chichaqua Bottoms, adding nearly 5,000 acres. The property is now owned and managed by the PCCB in Polk County, and the DNR in Jasper County.
Please bring/wear:
- Sturdy shoes or hiking boots, long pants and layers
- Headlamps and flashlights, if you have them (we will have some extras)
- Water bottle
- Insect repellent
- All other equipment provided
Details:
- No experience necessary
- Families welcome
- Please note that we will be working in the dark on uneven terrain
- Volunteers are encouraged to work at their own pace
- You will be asked to sign a liability waiver
Questions?
Contact Melanie Schmidt at mschmidt@inhf.org or 515-288-1846, ext. 35.
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central iowa
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chichaqua bottoms greenbelt
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family friendly
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prairie