Events

Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics" CANCELLED

Sorry, this program has been cancelled due to not enough registrations.

Join us for an exciting and hands-on Challenge Camp designed for youth ages 10–17!

The cost is $10 per participant, payable on the day of the event (cash or check made out to Friends of Mahaska County Conservation (FMCC). After registering online, you will receive a registration form by email. Please bring the completed form along with your payment on the day of camp.

Registration Link: Challenge Camp "Wildlife Tracking & Forensics" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

During this action-packed day, participants will:

• Learn how animals move and identify their tracks
• Create a fun (and edible!) “scat snack”
• Solve a wildlife crime scene using clues and observation skills
• Learn about trapping and wildlife management

Come put your detective skills to the test and explore the wild side of nature!

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OWLS Program "Nature: A Native Plant Walk & Drawing Session"

Adults of all ages are welcome to join the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program. This month, we will take a walk around the nature playscape, then take a closer look. After exploring native plants together, we’ll gather for a fun and low-pressure drawing session inspired by what we’ve seen. No experience needed—just curiosity! We’ll provide all the supplies and guide you through simple techniques to help you get started.

Pre-registration is needed to reserve a seat. Please call (641) 673-9327, email decook@mahaskacountyia.gov, or register online using this link: OWLS Program "Nature: A Native Plant Walk & Drawing Session" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Nature Documentary "Ghost of the Mountains"

Few animals capture the human imagination quite like the snow leopard. With its striking beauty and endangered status, this elusive creature serves as a powerful symbol of the impact humans have on the natural world. This documentary explores the life and habitat of the snow leopard, while also highlighting the challenges faced by filmmakers as they journeyed into remote landscapes to capture this remarkable animal in the wild.

Pre-registration is needed to reserve a seat.

Registration Link: Nature Documentary "Ghost of the Mountains" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Knee-High Naturalists "Water Wonders"

This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger. This month, get ready to splash and explore! Kids will enjoy hands-on water stations to discover which objects float or sink, try painting with water, and cool off with fun water play activities. Dress to get wet and come ready for a fun, interactive morning exploring the wonders of water!

Pre-registration is needed. A minimum of 5 kids are needed to hold the program.

Registration Link: Knee-High Naturalists "Water Wonders" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Paws-itively Fun Selfie Scavenger Hunt

Grab your dog and your cell phone and join us for a fun and unique outdoor adventure! As you explore, use the scavenger hunt list to find different items and snap a selfie with your dog at each stop. After the event, some of our favorite photos will be shared on Mahaska County Conservation’s Facebook page!

We will meet at the amphitheater next to the Environmental Learning Center. All dogs will receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate, and Mahaska County B.A.R.K. Ranger dog tags will also be available for purchase for $10 each (cash or check payable to FMCC).

Pre-registration is needed.

Registration Link: Paws-itively Fun Selfie Scavenger Hunt - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that has the colors RED, WHITE & BLUE on it to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing

Step back in time and try your hand at one of the oldest hunting tools in the world! Participants will learn the history of the atlatl—a spear-throwing device used by ancient cultures thousands of years ago to hunt large game—and discover how it helped early people survive. After learning the basics, kids will practice proper technique and develop their skills by throwing atlatl darts at targets. The atlatl works by extending the arm, allowing for greater speed and distance than throwing by hand alone.

Pre-registration is needed. Registration Link: Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

A minimum of 5 kids are needed to hold the program.

Note: This skill is easiest for kids ages 6 and older.

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Fun With Blank Park Zoo!

The Blank Park Zoo is returning to the Environmental Learning Center!  Join us for a fun and WILD time as we learn all about animals and how we take action for wildlife to protect their habitat. We will explore different habitats and learn about the endangered animals that live there. Discover how small actions can make big impacts on the wild.

Doors will open at 5:15 pm to help you get a seat.  Come early and enjoy the nature playscape just outside the ELC!

Registration is NOT needed.  All ages are welcome!

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Evening Fossil Hunt (all ages)

Join us for a hands-on fossil hunt and discover pieces of ancient life hidden beneath your feet! Search for fossilized horn corals, brachiopods, trilobites, and clam shells—remnants of a time when this area was once covered by water. Digging tools, collection baggies, and identification sheets will be provided. This fun, treasure-hunting experience is perfect for anyone who loves exploring and getting their hands a little dirty.

Pre-registration is needed with this link: Evening Fossil Hunt - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

DIRECTIONS: Russell Wildlife Area is located at 2254-200th Street, New Sharon, IA 50207. We will meet at the double gates next to the first pond seen by the road. Follow the lane to the south side of the pond.

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OWLS Program "Honeybees & Beekeeping"

Adults of all ages are invited to join the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program. This month, guest speaker Bri Marshall will represent the Back-to-Basics Bee Club as the Honey Queen and share her knowledge of honeybees and beekeeping. Come learn about the fascinating world of bees, their importance to our ecosystem, and what it takes to care for a hive.

Pre-registration is needed. You can sign up here, by calling (641)673-9327, or emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov.

Registration Link: OWLS Program "Honeybees & Beekeeping" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

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Knee-High Naturalists "Let's Go Fishing"

This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger.

This month, introduce your little one to the fun of fishing! Kids can enjoy time by the water with a parent or caregiver while learning the basics of fishing in a relaxed, hands-on setting. No experience is necessary! Staff will be on hand to help out. Fishing poles and bait will be provided, or you’re welcome to bring your own gear. We recommend bringing water to drink, a snack, and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on while fishing. Come enjoy a fun and memorable outdoor experience together!

Pre-registration is needed using this link: Knee-High Naturalists "Let's Go Fishing" - Russell Wildlife Area and Vos Addition, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program.

Directions to pond: Russell Wildlife Area is located at 2254-200th Street, New Sharon, IA 50207. We will meet at the double gates next to the first pond seen by the road. Follow the lane to the south side of the pond.

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Sunset Picnic at the Playscape

Grab your picnic basket and head to Nature Playscape! Enjoy a meal surrounded by nature, then join in on some fun outdoor games for all ages. This is a great way for families to unwind, play, and explore together. We'll meet at the playscape pergola by the Environmental Learning Center.

Pre-registration is not needed. Just drop in and join us with your picnic food!

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Coffee Club

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring a coffee cup or mug of your choice AND A FRIEND to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.

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