Watersheds and Wildlife
Many creeks and lakes are not monitored by state agencies. Water quality monitoring with our local partners is filling the gap in Story County and is guiding conservation efforts. The drought made 2021 a challenging year for monitoring but we’re learning how to control for weather in order to better see the influence of land management on water. Read our annual report or a quick summary of our findings.
Over 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of bees, along with many other species found in Iowa, need your attention.
Our goal is to create diverse habitats, and plant native prairies and grasslands to restore pollinator, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian populations while improving soil health.
We are working with landowners to provide for Iowa’s pollinators and wildlife by mapping and cataloging flyways and ecosystems, assisting with small to large landowner habitat design, providing conservation assistance, harvesting and providing native seeds while conducting environmental outreach and education.
What matters is the actions we are taking plus the information and relationships we have assembled puts local government, landowners, and our many partners in a good position to tackle these challenges!
Volunteers in the Creek All Week
Fourteen people tested water quality in Ioway Creek and its tributaries on Tuesday. Twenty-one people hauled trash out the creek on Saturday.
Take it Easy for Pollinators This Spring!
Signs of spring and warmer weather can be energizing, motivating us to start spring-cleaning our homes inside and out. However, some pollinators are still resting in their winter homes and cleaning up your lawn too soon can be detrimental to the new generation.
Rivers Routinely Ruin Riprap Revetments
A paddling trip on the South Skunk River uncovers some interesting history. Hopefully we’re getting smarter about how to handle eroding banks!
Jessica Butters
Pollinator Conservation Specialist
jbutters@prrcd.org
Dan Haug
Water Quality Specialist
dhaug@prrcd.org