little sioux wanderings - prairie heritage...

12
Little Sioux Wanderings A newsletter from the Little Sioux Valley Conservation Association and the OBrien County Conservation Board Volume 21 Issue 3 Fall 2017/Winter 2018 CORN and BEANS officially opened on July 6, 2017. Over 450 people visited the bins during the inaugural event. KMEG television filmed a story prior to the opening which started the spread of information. Our announcement of the event on Facebook was viewed by over 55,000 people! A follow-up story was written by Tim Gallagher from the Sioux City Journal. His article was picked up by the AP Press, and the information was featured in newspapers throughout the Midwest. Photos and reports about the bins have also been used as promotions for Western Iowa Tourism and other travel blogs. Weekends at the cabins were instantly booked! Weekdays were also fairly busy throughout the summer. We have had renters from as far away as Texas and as close as our backyard. The comments from visitors have been extremely positive. People love the view, and they exclaim over the uniqueness of the space. Several renters have immediately called back after their stay to book a return visit. All of this excitement is great for OBrien County. According to tourism numbers generated by Iowa tourism organizations, outdoor activities such as camping and hunting generate over $531 million dollars annually in local economic impact! With the cabins located along one of Iowa s eleven state scenic byways, travelers from across the country will be visiting the region, enjoying our local amenities, and making memories in our parks. See page 8 for more information on how to rent these unique cabins.

Upload: others

Post on 27-Jul-2020

1 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Little Sioux

Wanderings A newsletter from the Little Sioux

Valley Conservation Association and the

O’Brien County Conservation Board

Volume 21 Issue 3

Fall 2017/Winter 2018

CORN and BEANS officially opened on July 6, 2017. Over 450 people visited the bins during the inaugural event. KMEG television filmed a story prior to the opening which started the spread of information. Our announcement of the event on Facebook was viewed by over 55,000 people! A follow-up story was written by Tim Gallagher from the Sioux City Journal. His article was picked up by the AP Press, and the information was featured in newspapers throughout the Midwest. Photos and reports about the bins have also been used as promotions for Western Iowa Tourism and other travel blogs. Weekends at the cabins were instantly booked! Weekdays were also fairly busy throughout the summer. We have had renters from as far away as Texas and as close as our backyard. The comments from visitors have been extremely positive. People love the view, and they exclaim over the uniqueness of the space. Several renters have immediately called back after their stay to book a return visit. All of this excitement is great for O’Brien County. According to tourism numbers generated by Iowa tourism organizations, outdoor activities such as camping and hunting generate over $531 million dollars annually in local economic impact! With the cabins located along one of Iowa’s eleven state scenic byways, travelers from across the country will be visiting the region, enjoying our local amenities, and making memories in our parks.

See page 8 for more information on how to rent these unique cabins.

Page 2: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Working for the People

The O’Brien County Conservation Board is committed to working for the people of O’Brien County. The Iowa Code Section 360.1 that created the Conservation Board authorized the agency to acquire, develop, maintain, and make available to the inhabitants of the county, public museums, parks, preserves, parkways, playgrounds, recreational centers, county forests, wildlife and other conservation areas, and to promote and preserve the health and general welfare of the people, to encourage the orderly development and conservation of natural resources, and to cultivate good citizenship by providing adequate programs of public recreation.

In 2017, Iowa State University conducted a CyBizLab Marketing Plan and Survey Analysis in O’Brien County. It reported that improving outdoor activities ranked especially high as a priority for residents as well as a way to encourage people to return to the area. Two specific findings included: “It is clear that residents are very interested in places that have to do with outdoor activities.” “The top three reasons people left the county coincided with what they were looking for when choosing a place

to live: employment, amenities and affordable/living wages.” The O’Brien County Conservation Board provides outdoor activities and spaces for people to recreate. These opportunities provide quality of life experiences for all to enjoy. They improve the lives of those who live here, encourage economic development by providing tourism opportunities, and entice business owners to the county by providing quality amenities for employees to enjoy. As we look forward to investment returns from windmill operations in O’Brien County, there are many exciting projects that these funds could be used to accomplish. Some of the items on our five year plan include renovating Douma Park to include improved campsites and modern shower house facilities, paving the road to the Prairie Heritage Center, and assisting area organizations in creating a regional recreational trail system. The Conservation Board has a reputation for creatively funding projects. Since 2005, the Conservation Board has completed 33 projects for a total of nearly $2 million worth of improvements for the use and enjoyment of the citizens of the county. These projects were matched by around $500,000 of funds graciously contributed by donors and partners and used only around $200,000 of tax money. Funds designated to conservation use through the windmill committee could also be multiplied through grant efforts. The Conservation Board will continue to strive to make O’Brien County the best it can be for residents and those who visit our area.

We are here to create memories for a lifetime!

Terry Boltjes, Director O’Brien County Conservation Board - (712) 295-7200

[email protected] Board Members Staff Sherri Bootsma, Royd Chambers Terry Boltjes, Director Darwin Dau, Kathy Luedke Brian Schimmer, Park Ranger Jack Wallinga Ryan List, Park Ranger Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month. Andrew Kathman, Park Ranger Visit our website at: Charlene Elyea, Naturalist www.prairieheritagecenter.org Amber Wetherell, Education Center Receptionist 2

Page 3: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Hours: Wednesday - Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday - 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Need information? See our website at www.prairieheritagecenter.org 3

Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center! The grasses turn to an amber hue. The yellows and purples of autumn wildflowers compete with the oranges and golds in the trees, adding more color to a spectacular view. Some of our most popular events also occur during the months of August and September. The Bison Stampede Trail Run was held on August 12. This year there were 30 participants who completed the 3.1 mile course. Peyton Brasser was the first person crossing the finish line in a record time of 19:48.

The Bison Burger Picnic and Lawn Concert was held on August 15. Even with rain in the surrounding area, over 300 people attended our main fundraiser for the year. The music and food were excellent. It is always rewarding to see so many of our faithful friends and supporters. We are grateful to all who assist our cause. It is through your generous contributions that we are able to provide programming, improve our facilities and install new exhibits.

Proceeds from both of these fundraisers will be used as match money for an O’Brien County Community Foundation grant. The current project at the center is really MAMMOTH in size. A 12’ tall metal mammoth statue is expected to be delivered to the center in mid-November. The colossal

creature was constructed by Creative Steel/Port Neal Welding Company from Salix, IA. You can see some of the construction progress photos by looking on our Facebook site. There is still time to help with this project. We will be continuing to work on display panels and education pieces to help with interpretation. We welcome your support!

Come to the center this winter. Bald Eagles can be seen from about the middle of December through the middle of March. Our annual Bald Eagle Day will be held on Saturday, March 3. Throughout the winter, the Animal Architect exhibit will be on display in the lower level. There will be many hands-on things for young people and plenty of information for all. Consider stopping by as an outing on a winter day.

Page 4: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Sunday, November 12 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. – Nature Craft - Prairie Heritage Center Get into the holiday spirit by creating crafts made from natural items. The recipe for these holiday decorations includes a few nature items, a little creativity, some glue and sparkles. You bring the enthusiasm, and we’ll provide the rest!

Friday, November 17 & 18 - Women’s Night Out - Dog Creek Bin Cabins Call now to reserve your spot for an overnight adventure at the Bin Cabins. This event is for women 18 years old and over. Activities will include Dutch Oven cooking, night hike, crafts, birding and more. Check out our Facebook site and watch local newspapers for more information. Monday, December 4 at 7:00 p.m. - Nature’s Tree - Prairie Heritage Center Decorate a tree outdoors for the wild creatures. Participants will make some decorations to

leave at the center and some to take home with them.

Saturday, December 16 at 11:00 a.m. - Going for an Elf Hunt - Prairie Heritage Center Take a break from the mall and head outdoors for a winter adventure. Participants will use pre-programmed GPS units to find clues left behind by this elusive holiday creature. Thursday, December 21 at 5:00 p.m. - Welcome Winter - Mill Creek Park

Delight in the first day of winter with a walk around the lake on foot or with snowshoes.

Enjoy the Christmas Holidays with friends and family! The Prairie Heritage Center will be closed December 23 - 26

and December 31 - January 2.

Check out the list of Winter Library Programs on page 6 of this newsletter.

Also watch your local media for snowshoe opportunities should weather permit. Saturday, January 6 at 10:00 a.m. - Eagles on the River - Prairie Heritage Center Enjoy a short program about eagles before setting out to carpool the Bald Eagle Survey Route. Thursday, January 18 at 6:30 p.m. - Spectacular Skies - Prairie Heritage Center The indoor planetarium will be set up inside of the center. Come out to experience the solar system from the comfort of the indoors. Then we’ll head outside to check out the night sky. Saturday, January 20 at 1:00 p.m. - Snowshoe Making - Prairie Heritage Center Weave a pair of snowshoes for your use in the outdoors. See the article on page 10 of this newsletter.

Saturday, February 17 at 1:00 p.m. - We LOVE Snow! - Prairie Heritage Center Try some fun snow experiments. Weather conditions permitting, there will be opportunities to try many different snow activities such as snow snake competitions and

and snowshoe olympics! Bring your winter spirit for fun outdoors!

4

Page 5: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Monday, February 26 at 6:30 p.m. - Let Me See You Smile - Prairie Heritage Center Celebrate National Dental month by having a little fun with animal teeth. This Program is sure to make you SMILE! Saturday, March 3 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. - Bald Eagle Day - Prairie Heritage Center You won’t want to miss this annual festival! Enjoy watching eagles from the comfort of the center. Look for more information regarding a special speaker as the event comes closer.

Monday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. - Beginning Birding - Prairie Heritage Center This program is meant for the very beginning birder. Gain the basic tools to start a lifetime of adventure. Wednesday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. - Extraordinary Easter Egg Hunt - Mill Creek Park Meet at the Lodge for the annual GPS version of a holiday tradition. Sunday, April 8 at 2:00 p.m. - Pasque Flower Walk - Waterman Prairie South Join in the annual search for the first wildflower of Spring! Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to walk on steep surfaces. The view will be worth the hike!

Thursday, April 12 at 6:30 p.m. - Learn about Lichens - Prairie Heritage Center Lichens can be seen on rocks, trees and fence posts. This fascinating organism is often overlooked. You will be amazed at what is hidden in plain sight! Sunday, April 22 at 2:00 p.m. - Passion for Pollinators - Prairie Heritage Center Celebrate “Earth Day” with a look at some of the important ways that you can improve pollinator habitat in your backyard.

5

A Mammoth is Coming …. A Mammoth is Coming ... With a grant from the O’Brien County Community Foundation, a donation from the O’Brien County Soil and Water District, gifts In Memory of Wayne Olson and In Memory of Larry Feldotto, proceeds from the Bison Burger Picnic and Bison Stampede, 2017 Thrivent Choice Dollars and contributions from many others, the mammoth is on its way! The statue will soon stand on the hillside overlooking the prairie. Informational signage is being developed. You can help with this project. Purchase a mammoth donation shirt for $25 and proceeds go to the project. Contribute through Thrivent Choice. Make a donation to this display. This incredibly huge piece will soon be making memories and impacting visitors!

Page 6: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Winter Library Conservation Series

Each winter the Conservation Board teams with local libraries to bring special programming to the communities in O’Brien County. Check out this list of events and make plans to attend at your local library. All programs are suitable for participants of any age. They last approximately 45 minutes with time for questions afterwards. JANUARY – Signs of the Year

Get ready to look at 2018 from a completely different perspective! Phenology is nature’s calendar. Take a look at the study of seasonal natural phenomena especially related to plant and animal life. Preview the year looking at expected highlights. Then set out to observe the changes throughout the upcoming year! You are

guaranteed to begin looking at those calendar pages from a whole new view! Monday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m. - Sheldon Library Tuesday, January 9 at 6:30 p.m. - Archer Library Thursday, January 11 at 4:00 p.m. - Sutherland Library Tuesday, January 16 at 2:00 p.m. - Paullina Library Wednesday, January 17 at 3:00 p.m. - Hartley Library Thursday, January 18 at 2:00 p.m. - Sanborn Library Thursday, January 25 at 2:00 p.m. - Primghar Library

FEBRUARY – The Games We Played Are you looking for a way to pass a winter evening? This historical presentation focusing on games played by pioneers and Native Americans may be just the answer. Learn the history of some popular games. Determine the skill set a game improves. Then try your talents or luck at some of these historical pastimes. Thursday, February 8 at 4:00 p.m. - Sutherland Library Monday, February 12 at 6:30 p.m. - Sheldon Library Tuesday, February 13 at 6:30 p.m. - Archer Library

Thursday, February 15 at 2:00 p.m. - Sanborn Library Tuesday, February 20 at 2:00 p.m. - Paullina Library Wednesday, February 21 at 3:00 p.m. - Hartley Library Thursday, February 22 at 2:00 p.m. - Primghar Library

MARCH – Stories in Stone

Stones tell stories! This presentation is an overview of a look at rocks. It is part geology, part paleontology, and part archaeology. Whether you wander the local cemetery looking at headstones or the local main street

looking at architecture, there are even more stories hidden in stone there. Participants will take a look at the lichens that adorn the rocks. This overview of stones and their stories will change the way you look at rocks. Thursday, March 8 at 4:00 p.m. - Sutherland Library Monday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. - Sheldon Library Tuesday, March 13 at 6:30 p.m. - Archer Library Tuesday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m. - Paullina Library Wednesday, March 21 at 3:00 p.m. - Hartley Library Thursday, March 22 at 2:00 p.m. - Sanborn Library Thursday, March 29 at 2:00 p.m. - Primghar Library

6

Page 7: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

7

Crosbie Wildlife & Nature Youth Center

Staff have been hard at work transforming the Crosbie acreage into a remarkable resource for youth! This area will be one of kind in Northwest Iowa. The venue will provide opportunities to explore the outdoors and to practice various firearm disciplines including archery. The site is located at 4270 Roosevelt Avenue near Paullina. Some of the changes which occurred over the summer include planting and prairie maintenance, installation of an informational kiosk and signage, and renovation and repair of the buildings. Several new ranges are under construction. A trap range has been built and will soon be furnished with a thrower. Also planned are a pistol range, a 50 yard rifle range and an archery course. The O’Brien County Sportsmen’s Club has donated $15,000 towards the purchase of equipment. Two Muddy tower blinds were installed in September. A trap thrower will be delivered soon. Construction of a duck blind is underway. Additional indoor space was added to one of the sheds. This enclosed area will be used for educational presentations as well as hunter education classes.

Donations to the project continue to be sought! Some of the most urgent needs include monetary gifts which would aid in acquiring 3D archery targets, an archery tower, range equipment, a duck blind, tables, benches, and gun rests. If you are willing to assist with this valuable project, please contact us. Youth hunters have already been using the area! Beginning with youth deer season in September, both permit areas on the site were in use daily. It is wonderful to see so many young people have space to engage in a lifelong passion. Special use permits may be picked up at the kiosk in the parking lot. The completed form must be displayed on the dash of the vehicle. Each hunting party must include the same number of youth 15 years of age and under as adults over 21 years of age. Adults must be unarmed. Only one hunting party is allowed at a time on each area. The two areas are available on a first come-first serve basis. There are two permit times each day beginning one hour before the opening time through noon and from noon to one hour after closing time. (Shooting hours vary slightly by species.) Game animals include deer, wild turkey, pheasant, waterfowl and small game. No trapping is allowed without specific permission. The Conservation Board is happy to partner with the Crosbie family to provide this exceptional opportunity for youth in our region.

Page 8: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

8

Plan Your Next Vacation

The Dog Creek Grain Bin Cabins have been steadily rented since their opening. This is a great place to get together with friends and family throughout the year. Hunting opportunities in the Little Sioux and Waterman valleys are excellent. Consider booking a cabin as a hub for your next vacation. Both the 12-person cabins at Mill Creek as well as the Grain Bin cabins at Dog Creek can be reserved from the first weekend in April through the New Year’s holiday. The 6-person cabins at each of the parks can be reserved from the beginning of May through the end of September. Cabin reservations can be made one calendar year in advance by calling the O’Brien County Conservation Office at 712-295-7200. All cabins have a two night minimum stay with an additional night required on holidays.

Rates for the cabins are:

Book your cabins now! Consider giving a cabin stay as a Christmas gift!

REAP Works!

The REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) program works to enhance and protect Iowa’s natural and cultural resources. The REAP Alliance, a coalition that includes the Iowa Association of County Conservation Boards and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, is holding a drawing for people that get involved in recognizing the important work that REAP does. You can win a $100 gift card to Sportsman’s Warehouse and some outdoor gear by simply posting a picture of yourself at one of your favorite places to get outdoors. Here’s how it works: Enter to win by posting a photo of yourself on Facebook or Twitter with an

official “Funded by REAP” sign at a park, trail, wildlife area or project of cultural significance in your community.

Use the #REAPworks hashtag and tag the REAP Alliance so that they can track your posts and log your entries. Use a geotag or state the location of the photo in your caption. One entry per location.

Learn about the REAP projects in your community at www.iowadnr.gov/conservation/REAP. Some of the projects in O’Brien County include the Prairie Heritage Center, the Waterman Wildlife Addition, the Waterman Creek Stream Protection Project, the Austin Hill Tract and more.

You will receive one entry in the drawing for each photo you post (one photo per park, etc.). The REAP Alliance will draw the winner of the $100 Sportsman’s Warehouse gift card and outdoor gear following REAP Congress on Jan. 6, 2018. This contest is hosted by the REAP Alliance, which is a coalition of recreation, conservation, historical preservation and sporting organizations dedicated to protecting the REAP program. REAP Alliance officers are not eligible to win. Thank you to Sportsman’s Warehouse for their generous support of this project and the REAP program. The gift card can be used online or at the Sportsman's Warehouse Ankeny location. If you have questions contact Joe Jayjack, Communications Director for Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, at [email protected].

6 Person Cabin at

Mill Creek & Dog Creek

12 Person Cabin

At Mill Creek

Grain Bin Cabin

At Dog Creek

Sunday - Thursday $40/night $100/night $130/night

Friday, Saturday, Holiday $45/night $120/night $150/night

Weekly $245/week $675/week $875/week

Page 9: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

9

Hunting Regulation Updates

There are a few changes in hunting regulations to take notice of this season. Iowa hunters have a new option while hunting

deer during youth, disabled hunter and both shotgun seasons. Rifles that are capable of shooting straight wall cartridges are allowed. There are some cartridge criteria specified; so be sure to check the regulations for complete details.

A rule change during the 2017 legislative session

allows hunters who have a valid permit to carry a handgun while hunting deer under an archery tag. Hunters may not use a handgun to shoot or dispatch any deer while hunting under an archery tag. Hunters without a permit to carry may not have a handgun in their possession. Archery season closes during the two shotgun seasons and reopens after the second shotgun season closes. This coincides with the opening of late muzzleloader season where legal methods include bow, muzzleloader, crossbow (resident only) and hand gun.

House File 69 makes changes to the Iowa Code

Section 716.8 regarding trespassing. A person that knowingly trespasses on property owned by another person commits a simple misdemeanor that is punishable as a scheduled violation. This includes a person deer hunting that knowingly trespasses on property. The fine is $200 for a first violation, $500 for a second violation, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent violations.

Have a safe and successful deer hunting season!

Mill Creek Park Improvements

Several improvements are underway at Mill Creek Park. Del Walinga and Modern Woodmen have played a large role in these endeavors. A matching fund challenge went out to park patrons for playground improvements. There was a great response from supporters. As a result, Del Walinga and Modern Woodmen presented Terry Boltjes, Director with a $2,500 gift. Walinga and Modern Woodmen also contributed funds to complete the final eight camping pad extensions at Mill Creek Park. These pads were quickly poured at the end of the camping season. This concludes a multi-year effort to improve the campground. We are grateful to all of the patrons who supported the efforts.

Recognition of Service

Park Ranger, Brian Schimmer and Director, Terry Boltjes were recently recognized for longevity of service at the County Conservation Peace Officer Association Training. Schimmer has been a certified officer for 10 years while Boltjes has served for 25 years. Congratulations to both for their dedicated service to O’Brien County and the State of Iowa.

Page 10: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Check your mailing label to be sure the address is correct. Please let us know if any changes should be made. If you would like to receive the Little Sioux Wanderings free of charge, please send your name and physical or

email address to Naturalist, 4931 Yellow Ave, Peterson IA 51047. The newsletter is also available via email. See our web site at www.prairieheritagecenter.org to check out the newsletter or subscribe via email.

Environmental Protection Agency: 712-336-1840 Conservation Officers: John Sells: 712-260-1019 Joe Yarkosky: 712-2460-1004 TIP (Turn In Poachers): 1-800-532-2020

The O’Brien County Conservation Board does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, national origin, age or handicap. If anyone believes that he or she has been subjected to such a discrimination, he or she may file a complaint with either the O’Brien County Conservation Board or the Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240

10

Snowshoe Making Workshop

After the first taste of winter, we know that the change of seasons is just around the corner. The Conservation Board is again offering the opportunity to hand craft beautiful snowshoes. Several different styles will be offered including the traditional wood frames as well as the modern aluminum version.

Few experiences can compare to stomping across freshly fallen snow on a pair of snowshoes. This activity is an excellent way to relax and get exercise at the same time! Hiking across the snow takes on a new meaning when you construct your own handmade pair of snowshoes! The Conservation Board is holding a snowshoe making class on Saturday, January 20 beginning at 1:00 p.m. Three “Expedition” style snowshoes will be available to make. These include frames made out of white ash, nylon lacings and bindings. The styles available are Ojibway, Huron and Bearpaw. Each type has an advantage in different conditions, but all produce an exceptional quality product. The material cost for any of these three styles is $165. The new “Urban” style snowshoe has undergone four years of research and development & field testing. The frames are made of aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. The traditional lacing patterns are completed with nylon “TechDeck” materials and ratchet-style bindings are included. Three sizes are available depending on user body weight. The material cost for the Urban snowshoes is $85. When completed, you will only need to varnish the snowshoes annually to keep them in shape for a lifetime. The investment of time and money in the process produces a product that is a source of pride as well as a long-time use.

The kits will need to be ordered by January 5. Please call 712-295-7200 for more information or to reserve your spot in the class. Bear Paw Ojibway Good for maneuvering in tight spaces Good for traveling in open spaces

Huron “Urban” Style Good for large loads or heavy packs Aluminum frames with quick adjust bindings included

Page 11: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

11

Wish List Would you have any of these items to help with the Prairie Heritage Center and Conservation Board Programs? * Outlet safety covers * Craft supplies such as hot glue sticks, ribbon, felt, embroidery hoops, dowels, etc * Markers * 10x magnification loupes or magnifiers The Conservation Board is also looking for a disc (16-18 feet long). If you would consider selling one at a discounted price, please contact us.

Chickadee Checkoff or the

Fish/Wildlife Fund Since 1981, the Legislative Assembly has provided a means for taxpayers to help

non-game wildlife species. It helped to begin the original Wildlife Diversity Program and continues to fund it today. The checkoff provides Iowans an opportunity to donate a self-designated portion of their tax refund or add a donation amount to their outstanding tax bill. Some of the projects funded by the donation include full-time staff members in the Wildlife Diversity Program; restoration of previously lost Iowa wildlife such as Trumpeter Swans and Ospreys; educational opportunities such as Bald Eagle Days and Pelican Fest; designation of Bird Conservation Areas; research projects on birds, butterflies, bobcats and other animals; population studies; technical assistance for land managers, and many other things. You can donate on the contribution line - usually around line 57 of Iowa’s 1040 long form.

Marlys Einck - Yardsticks Ken & Rosemary Hansen - Turtle & Least Weasel Brad & Nancy Miller - Scythe In Memory of Jim Niebuhr - Binoculars Arlene Roemmich - Storage Tubs Richard Smidt - Firewood Dave & Teresa Stoll - fossil Bill Treimer - Canoe Dennis & Kathy Wacker - Storage Tubs

Volunteers for Events and Projects: Jon & Judy Bang, Sue Cullers, Darwin Dau, Margaret Dau, Joshua Hicks, Mary Hicks, Molly Hicks, Rev. Duane & Rosemary Jalas, Darin Johnson, Mardi Letzring, Theodore & Caroline Letzring, Kathy Luedke, Ken Orthmann, Bruce & Georgeann Morrison, Doris Rausch, Dave & Teresa Stoll, Beth Wilson, Dorothy Wegner

Camping Pad Extensions at Mill Creek Park: Koehlmoos Construction, Modern Woodmen, Lee Riedemann, Kevin Riedemann, Bob & Vickie Ruden, Del Walinga

Mill Creek Playground Project: Modern Woodmen, Mark Miller, Verlyn Netten, Janice Tjossem, Dale Voss, Del Walinga

Picnic Tables at Mill Creek: Gary DeJong

Quarterly Memorial Donations in Memory of: Viola Laue, Wayne Olson, Orion Thomas

Prairie Heritage Center Brick: In Honor of Arlene Roemmich, In Memory of Jeff Filkins

For Mammoth Project: Leroy Liske, O’Brien County Soil & Water District, In Memory of Wayne Olson

Monetary Donations: Susie Allgood, Mike Melampy & Nance Hicks, Brad & Nancy Miller, Leroy Reimer, Jerry & Delores Saunders, James Schaap

Thrivent Choice Dollars: Kent & Charlene Elyea, Theodore & Caroline Letzring, Kathy Luedke, Doris Rausch

Membership Renewal: Susie Allgood, Royd & Barbara Chambers, Maxine Ewoldt, Mike & Michelle Hohbach, Jim & Jolene Hultgren, David Johnson, James & Colleen Johnson, Terry & Barbara Morris, Ron & Bonnie Mueller, Neva Nolan, O’Brien County Soil & Water District, Ken & Bev Orthmann, Scott Osborn, Dr. Mark & Sue Schulz, Security State Bank, Emily Waund, Beth Wilson

Page 12: Little Sioux Wanderings - Prairie Heritage Centerprairieheritagecenter.org/wp-content/.../Fall-2017... · Fall is one of our favorite times of year at the Prairie Heritage Center!

Plan to Attend!

Bald Eagle Watch Saturday, March 3

From 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.