Nature Playscape Grand Opening & 50th Anniversary for Mahaska Co. Conservation

You’re invited to join us in celebrating two exciting milestones — the Grand Opening of the Nature Playscape at the Environmental Learning Center and the 50th Anniversary of Mahaska County Conservation!
 Saturday, November 8th
 Celebration begins promptly at 10:00 a.m.
 Environmental Learning Center
Come celebrate with the Mahaska County Conservation Board staff and community members as we cut the ribbon on our long-awaited outdoor all- inclusive Nature Playscape and commemorate 50 years of conservation, education, and outdoor adventure in Mahaska County.

Enjoy:
Refreshments

A festive parade featuring the Oskaloosa Middle School Band and a puppet parade

Tram rides along the bike trail

Plenty of time to explore and play in the new Nature Playscape

Bring your family and friends to be part of this special day in our county’s history — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Knee-High Naturalists "Wild About Animals"

Knee-High Naturalists “Wild About Animals!”
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center

This free program is designed for kids ages 5 and younger. This month, little learners will explore many different kinds of animals and have fun with animal aerobics, story time and coloring. Bring one of your own stuffed animals from home with you if you want one to hang out with you!

Pre-registration is needed, and you can sign up using this link:  Knee-High Naturalists "Wild About Animals" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

Coffee Club

Coffee Club
9:00-10:00 am
Environmental Learning Center

Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats during Coffee Club. We have fun talking about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.

This month, bring your "newest" coffee cup or mug in the cupboard to take part in a door prize.

Registration is NOT needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab. 

STEM Lab for Kids "Paper Airplanes"

STEM Lab for Kids “Paper Airplanes”
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center

Grab your friends and head to the ELC for a FREE and fun, hands-on science activity—making paper airplanes! Discover how airplanes fly and tricks to making them soar through the air.

A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program.
Pre-registration is needed, and you can sign up using this link:  STEM Lab for Kids "Paper Airplanes" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

Tracks & Trails

Tracks & Trails
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center

Come take a relaxing stroll with us on the bike trail next to the Environmental Learning Center! This outdoor walk is open to all ages and is a great way to enjoy nature together. Along the way, we'll explore topics like plant and wildlife identification, try nature scavenger hunts, and discover other fun activities. If the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll head inside to check out the exhibits instead.

Pre-registration is needed, and you can sign up using this link:  Tracks & Trails - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

Nature Documentary "Planet of the Birds"

Birds inhabit nearly every environment on Earth—from the Arctic tundra to secluded tropical isles. This documentary explores the fascinating adaptations that allow them to survive and thrive: their bodies, feathers, flight, and song. Embark on a worldwide exploration of the planet’s most adaptable travelers.

We will watch the documentary in the Discovery Lab. Feel free to bring a drink and snacks.

Save your seat by signing up with this link:  Planet of the Birds Documentary - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

Homeschool Science Lab "Critter Cafe"

Kids will explore what different animals eat by designing a fun “restaurant menu” for carnivores, herbivores, omnivores, and insectivores. As a special treat, participants will get to help feed some of the live animals that call the Environmental Learning Center home!

Don't miss out on this tasty program! Sign now using this link:  Homeschool Science Lab "Critter Cafe" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com

OWLS Program "Storytelling by Linda Fox"

The Mahaska County Conservation invites adults of any age to the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program on Friday, November 21 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm for "Storytelling by Linda Fox".

Bring a friend and settle in for a delightful time with local storyteller Linda Fox. Get ready to laugh, imagine, and be whisked away by her fun-loving and charming tales! We will top of the great stories with a hot chocolate bar!

***RESERVATIONS are needed so give us a call at (641)673-9327 or email decook@mahaskacountyia.gov by November 19. Reservations are also taken online using this link:  OWLS Program "Storytelling by Linda Fox" - Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA - MyCountyPark.com