Conservation Connection
Can Things That Don’t Matter Make a Difference?
The “Skunk River Navy” removed 80 tons of trash from rivers in central Iowa from 1998-2017. Trash isn’t the main problem affecting streams, so these kinds of efforts may not “matter” in the big picture but they can inspire us to work together to make a difference.
A Good Day for Volunteerism, A Bad Day For Water Quality
On May 20, volunteers tested water quality at 162 sites in central Iowa! We backed that up with lab testing and measured the highest nitrate levels that have been seen in Skunk River for at least a decade.
Thirsty Wings: How to Add a Pollinator Oasis to Your Garden
Pollinators and wildlife get thirsty too! Find out how to help them during these hot, dry months.
Subtle Spring
By Jim Colbert:
The beauty of an Iowa woodland in early spring is subtle, but once you get to be on a first-name-basis with spring ephemerals, they’re impossible to ignore!
More Bees, Please – Creating a Pollinator Friendly Ames!
By Lisa Kuehl
An introduction to the Pollinator Friendly 10 year plan and why you should join in the effort.
Don’t Pull Those Weeds and Help the Bees!
Spring is one of the most important foraging times for pollinators. Let’s help them get off to a great start!
Calibrate Your Disgust
There is a 100-fold difference in E. coli levels between Iowa’s cleanest lakes and Iowa’s dirtiest rivers, and between new and outdated sewage treatment systems. That leaves a lot of wiggle room to enjoy Iowa’s waters while protecting your health, and to make things a little better by repairing our infrastructure.
Troubleshooting a Rain Garden
Rain gardens are a stormwater management solution that’s simple enough to tackle as a DIY project. However, I’ve noticed a few things that can go wrong. Here are some tips to avoid them!
Create a Native Plant Sensory Garden!
A sensory garden involves all of your senses (taste, touch, smell, sound, and sight) making it a great learning opportunity for young children, adults with mental disabilities, or really anyone! These are the plants I would use if I wanted to create an Iowa native sensory garden!