Budget bind means parts of state parks to be shut

From 12/28/09 Des Moines Register
By PERRY BEEMAN
pbeeman@dmreg.com

The state is moving to close selected trails, parks and beaches and might close entire parks if budget cuts grow, the Department of Natural Resources' director said.

The department has lost 25 percent of its general-fund cash in the past year because of weak state revenues, Richard Leopold said. Last summer, federally paid help bolstered his crews, but that money is gone, too.

Next summer, some areas that don't generate cash will be roped off, Leopold said. Campgrounds and other spots that do bring in cash should be open, though maintenance may suffer a bit.

As it stands today, all parks will be open next summer, with selected parts of them closed.

"We're not closing anything yet," Leopold said. "We will offer fewer services everywhere. If we get further cuts, we'll probably close whole parks."

Any closures would most likely affect lesser-used parks, he said.

"It's kind of ironic because we are at record attendance but at historic lows with staffing," Leopold said.

Iowa's 85 state parks draw a combined 14 million visits a year. The DNR usually has 300 summer workers on board to help with the vacation season.

"Now, we have 40 budgeted for next summer, and we'll be lucky to hold on to those," Leopold said.

That means some beaches, playgrounds and picnic areas will simply be off-limits because the state won't be able to maintain them. The one wild card: volunteers. If a park's "friends group" can pick up the slack, its areas might stay open.

Department spokesman Kevin Baskins said several initiatives might ease the pain. The DNR has asked for $40 million in stimulus money for parks projects but has not received word on the application. That money would pay for constructing beach buildings, playgrounds and cabins, for example. There is also talk of coming up with money for volunteer coordinators at the DNR.

In the long term, there may be more cash. A private foundation is looking to raise cash for parks. Also, voters will decide in November whether to back a constitutional amendment that would clear the way for devoting $150 million a year to natural resources if lawmakers approve a sales tax increase.

IPF Request for Proposal - Research & Fundraising

The Iowa Parks Foundation issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) and a Request for Qualifications for two important projects . I both cases, IPF hosted pre-application meetings to describe the projects and answer questions from prospective vendors.

The first meeting presented the RFP for:

• Marketing Research Services


• Public Opinion & Research Services


• Audience Research, Development and Associated Services

The Board's intention is to select a consultant with experience and ability to provide the IPF with research and community engagement services that will refine and inform the foundation’s long range strategic planning efforts. The consultant will assist the foundation to acquire information from targeted groups and individuals as part of a key strategic goal to create an operationally sustainable organization and to advance the foundation’s mission.

You'll find the pre-application meeting files at these hotlinks:
Registration: http://download.yousendit.com/Z01NY05wY3lrUmwzZUE9PQ
Audio/Media Files: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01OMFhxZy9lM1RIRGc9PQ
Revised Schedule: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01OMFhqMGNlcExIRGc9PQ
Revised RFQ: http://download.yousendit.com/Z01OZFh1d0E4Q1NGa1E9PQ

These files will be available for download thru December 24, 2009.

The second meeting described the RFQ for a Fundraising Consultant.

The principle function of the fundraising counsel will be to:

• Coach and assist the IPF to design and conduct an investment campaign intended to raise $150MM for a capital investment and IPF operations for the benefit of Iowa's parks before the state park system's centennial in 2020.

You'll find the pre-application meeting files for the fundraising project at:

Registration: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01PcXl0R0Z5UkYzZUE9PQ
Audio/Media Files: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01PcXlnNDR0d0dGa1E9PQ
Revised Schedule: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01PcXlyTERvQnVGa1E9PQ

Revised RFQ for Fundraising: https://download.yousendit.com/Z01OZFhxV3IzeUtGa1E9PQ

These files will also be available for download thru December 24, 2009.

Interested????

Contact Kent at iaparks@mchsi.com or call at 515-255-0776 if you have questions.

Have a Joyous Holiday Season!

Iowa Parks Foundation - Pre-Application Meetings rescheduled

Due to the developing weather situation and winter storm, we are moving the vendor pre-application meetings scheduled for this week to next week. (Watch… now the storm will miss us).

The meetings will be at RDG Planning and Design at 301 Grand Avenue in Des Moines if you can make it in person.

Here is the remote access information that will be used for the pre-application meetings on Wednesday and on Thursday of next week.

Join us via your computer if you are interested.

The Wednesday meeting will be held at 2:30 PM (CST) and is for those firms interested in the research, public opinion and associated services (agenda attached).

The Thursday meeting will be held at 3:30 PM CST and is for those firms interested in the fundraising consultant and associated services (agenda attached).

If you are unable to attend the Wednesday December 16th IPF Pre-Application Meeting at 2:30 PM in person, you may follow the following instructions for remote access.
1. Please join IPF Pre-Application Meeting for
a. Marketing Research Services
b. Public Opinion & Research Services
c. Audience Research, Development and Associated Services
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/791695088


2. Use your microphone and speakers (VoIP) - a headset is recommended. Or, call in using your telephone.
Dial 312-878-0206
Access Code: 791-695-088
Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting
Meeting ID: 791-695-088



____________________________________________________________________________________
1. If you cannot attend the fundraising consultant services meeting in person, you may join our pre-application meeting on Thursday, December 17 at 3:30 PM Central Standard Time.
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/426485992



2. Use your microphone and speakers (VoIP) - a headset is recommended. Or, call in using your telephone.
Dial 712-338-7131
Access Code: 426-485-992
Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting
Meeting ID: 426-485-992

Here Comes Winter Bird Feeding

by Joe Wilkinson

Our balmy-at-times November so far may have misled you. Things are cooling down now, though. All that's missing is the snow and wind for Iowa's winter bird feeding season to settle down around us.

Actually, most of those winter birds are here. That's why it's a good idea to get those cold weather feeding stations up and running. "It will help establish their feeding patterns. You'll be on the 'circuit,' so to speak, for those migratory birds that are moving around right now," explains Pat Schlarbaum, nongame wildlife technician with the Department of Natural Resources.

And there are a lot of us out there. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service says one-third of Iowans watch wildlife. And more than 400,000 of us take our wildlife viewing on the road. Between serious birders traveling to hard-to-reach viewing areas and families with a pair of binoculars in the park, birds and birding make up a big share of that demand.

It all starts in your backyard. "We've definitely seen an increase in traffic; people coming in buying feeders and stuff," notes Ronda Wilson, who runs Birds Eye View in Coralville. "They're buying black oil sunflower seeds...that interests most of the native songbirds. Some of them are getting specific seed to attract specific species, though."

If you stock just one feeder, or just one type of feed, black oil sunflower seed is the standard. "It's the most widely appreciated feed for the 'more desirable' species; the cardinals, nuthatches, chickadees, the tufted titmice," said Schlarbaum.

Though you can take home seed in 25 or 50 pound bags, to get a break in the price, the spike in the seed oil market has rounded off in the past year. The continent-wide ethanol boom over the last couple years didn't just create a demand for more corn. It also hiked interest in peanuts, safflower and sunflower seeds. That sent prices higher, particularly in 2008, with flood related losses and higher transportation costs. "Prices are down significantly this fall," relays Wilson. "They had gone through the roof; sunflower seeds, nyjer and peanuts, a year or so ago."

Depending on your interest...and the size of your feeding area, you can branch out from there. Nyjer thistle seed keeps goldfinches coming back. Peanuts attract the stately gray on white titmice, perhaps even more than sunflower seeds. It took less than a day for a big sapsucker to zero in on my wire peanut feeder. Hairy and downy woodpeckers climb all over it, too. I take down my nectar feeders about mid-October after the hummingbirds clear out and pull out the wire suet feeders; which are woodpecker favorites, too. I filled one, but it's neglected until we get snow on the ground, apparently.

Overall, the message is simple. If you fill it, they will come. Still, serious backyard bird barons work a couple more 'feather factors' into their feeding regime. A water source; say a bird bath with a heating element, can multiply the bird population. A quick splash lets birds clean themselves and better regulate body heat; critical for those tiny bodies in bitter cold weather.

On the other hand, you may have too many birds. "House sparrows, grackles...some of the more undesirable species; you have some luck luring them away if you scatter some cracked corn or the cheaper feed mixes in a back corner of your property," suggests Schlarbaum.

If you're a 'no-squirrel advocate,' like me, safflower seeds do not appeal to them...but are favorites of cardinals. Most full service wildlife stores have squirrel-proof feeders...and others that discourage sparrows. Wilson says there is a big move toward 'green feeders;' those made from recycled plastic, rather than wood.

The view from your window is hard to beat, on a subzero day with the flitting reds, whites and blues...and ten shades of gray. And the time spent filling those feeders and maybe even looking a little beyond your back yard, gets you and your family outdoors, too...even it if is just watching from the window.

Getting Started? Stepping it Up?

Any full service bird supply store or counter can answer your 'getting started' questions, if you want to feed the birds or otherwise enjoy winter wildlife. It might take just an $8 dollar feeder and a small bag of sunflower seed. Most veteran feeders discourage setting out the cheap mixes which are heavy on millet. From there, though, the sky's the limit, for feeder choices and the various seeds, suet and side treats.

A variety of websites and blogs are out there, too. Hopefully, you'll remember your goal is to enjoy the outdoors...not stare at a computer screen. A few good sites to get you rolling include: www.iowabirds.org, www.icbirdss.org, www.audubon.org and the DNR's website; www.iowadnr.gov (click on nongame wildlife, left column).

Check out this great video from Iowa DNR

Call for Nominations: Iowa's Most Endangered Properties 2010

Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance's Most Endangered List Due November 23

Is a historic property near you threatened with demolition, or is it abandoned and slowly deteriorating? If so, nominate it to the 2010 list of Iowa's Most Endangered Properties.

Iowa's Most Endangered Properties is a program begun in 1995 to show Iowans the special buildings and historic sites that are slowly and gradually slipping away from us. Each year a call is placed for nominations through the IHPA membership, Main Street communities, and historic preservation commissions across the state.

A panel of judges considers four criteria in choosing the final list: geographic distribution, historic significance, nature of the threat, and variety of building type. The program provides an excellent resource for media coverage and introduces endangered property owners to preservation advocates and resources that can help preserve their historic property

IHPA's Most Endangered program showcases Iowa's historic resources that need our help the most. Find out more and download the nomination form and entry guidelines on the Most Endangered Properties page.

Iowa Preservationists: please don't let this opportunity pass to call attention to an endangered historic property in your community. The Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance (IHPA) has just extended the deadline for Iowa's Most Endangered Properties List submissions to November 23. For more information, visit http://www.iowapreservation.org/.

If you have questions, please contact George Wakeman at 712.251.7732 or Charles1525@gmail.com or Sheriffa Jones at 712.262.2083 or sjones@iowalakesrcd.org

IHPA Annual Meeting December 7, 2009
Join the IHPA Board of Directors for our annual meeting on Monday, December 7 in Valley Junction at the West Des Moines Community Center (217 5th Street, 2nd Floor, Veterans Memorial Room). Come meet the IHPA Board, learn about IHPA's activities over the last year, and learn about the exciting changes we have in store for 2010!

Green Valley State Park to Close during Special Deer Hunt

Green Valley State Park will be closed to the general public November 21, 22 and 23, in order to hold a special park deer hunt. The sixth annual hunt is designed to allow 30 hunters to harvest up to 60 does, using only muzzleloaders.

All hunters have registered and will receive two antlerless tags each, redeemable only during the special hunt at the designated areas and specified dates.

To ensure a safe event, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources will have extra staff on hand to patrol the park boundaries. For safety reasons, the park will close on Nov. 21 and reopen on Nov. 24.

“The hunt helps to keep the park’s deer population under control. We have had five successful hunts and we are hoping this year’s hunt will be just as good,” said Park Ranger Alan Carr. “All hunters have attended a special safety meeting for this hunt and we are expecting it to go just as well as in the past. We hope to harvest as close to 60 female deer as we can and do it in a safe and efficient manner.

“This has shown to be a great management tool for state parks to maintain a balance in the deer herd. People want to see deer when they come to park, but we can’t have so many deer that they destroy their habitat and create a lot of crop damage for neighboring landowners,” Carr said.
The hunt will likely remain an annual event. Research shows that if these hunts stop, the deer population tends to increase rather quickly. The number of deer that are targeted for removal may change depending on the research. The final decision is made by the depredation biologist.

For questions, contact the park office at (641) 782-5131.

Mountain bikers build their own paths

By MIKE KILEN
mkilen@dmreg.com

A small group of mountain bikers didn't sit around and whine after they were booted out of Browns Woods south of Des Moines in 1996.

They meticulously built a network of dirt trails in central Iowa.

"Our state doesn't have a lot of public land so the battle for everybody to get their own is a lose-lose. The answer is in how to improve and share these trails," said Ryan Hanser, president of the Central Iowa Trails Association.

The trail work continues Saturday with volunteer trail building. The benefits will be on display Sunday, Nov. 15, during the Des Moines Dirty Duathlon race.

"People don't understand that dirt trails don't just happen if a lot of us walk in the same place," Hanser said. "Good trails don't build themselves. When built right, they last for generations and don't require a lot of maintenance. But the construction is pretty demanding."

With 50 members, CITA helped build:
- A dirt trail system in Des Moines' Greenwood and Ashworth Parks that links to adjacent Water Works Park. (Seven miles).

- Sycamore Trail on the west side of the Des Moines River north of Euclid Avenue. (7.5 miles).
- Summerset State Park off Highway 69 between Indianola and Des Moines. (Four miles).

City officials estimate the volunteers worked 350 hours in Greenwood Park alone, estimated at $70,000 of labor.

It took a lot of toil through the woods and up and down hills with fire-fighting equipment such as hoses, axes, fire rakes and tampers.

And it took expertise.

After mountain biking popularity spread from the coasts to the Midwest in the mid-1990s, Hanser said, conflict between users developed.

But proper trail design, aided by advice from the International Mountain Biking Association, helped calm the tensions.

Well-designed trails alleviate erosion and collisions with slower-moving walkers by being tight and technical, Hanser said.

City officials say the volunteers have been vital.
"These trails not only benefit mountain bikers but also anyone who wants to get up close to nature," said Mindy Moore, city park planner.

A parks department survey of Des Moines residents found that 80 percent of households rank walking and biking trails as their greatest recreation need.

Moore said plans for more unpaved trails are in the works following a study last summer on appropriate locations. A skill-building, BMX-like dirt track is in development in Bates Park.
Area mountain bikers gather for weekly rides and competitions, linked at centraliowatrails.org.

Hanser said other dirt trail networks have formed across the state, including in the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Cedar Falls, Council Bluffs and Decorah, with a showcase system in Whiterock Conservancy near Coon Rapids under consideration.

"It's really about Iowans volunteering," he said.

Race Event on Nov. 15
Des Moines Dirty Duathlon. Greenwood Park, Des Moines. Sunday, Nov. 15. Registration, 10 a.m.; Beginner race, 11 a.m.; Free kids race, 12:30 p.m.; Open/relay race, 1 p.m. $25. centraliowatrails.com.
Additional Facts
How to volunteer
Volunteers are needed for trail work. No experience required; wear sturdy shoes, eye protection and bring water.

- Saturday, Nov. 7, 1-5 p.m., Greenwood Park, 4500 Grand Ave., Des Moines. (Meet at Ashworth Pool.) Rerouting trail.

- Saturday, Nov. 14. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Summerset State Park, east of Highway 69 between Des Moines and Indianola. Building trail.

Birding Festival makes Major Improvements for 2009

Weekends in Oct and early Nov, Lansing, Iowa

Submitted by Ric Zarwell

Enjoy awesome close-up views of 15-18,000 elegant Tundra Swans; of 15 to 20 other waterfowl species in enormous concentrations of up to 200-300,000 birds; plus scores of Bald Eagles and many other wildlife species.

This year, special "Fall Migration Cruises" will explore the wildlife-rich Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge on three consecutive weekends when wildlife numbers peak for the year: Oct. 31-Nov. 1; Nov. 7-8; and Nov. 14-15.

Cruises take place twice on Saturdays and twice on Sundays: from 9 AM to Noon, and from 1 PM to 4 PM. Enjoy a cozy ride on a large, enclosed and heated boat with windows on all sides, and the closest views of Tundra Swans available anywhere. Free hot apple cider will further sweeten the experience.

All cruises leave from the waterfront in Lansing, in gorgeous Northeast Iowa - just 35 miles east of Decorah, IA, and 35 miles upstream from McGregor and Marquette, IA. Festival organizer, Ric Zarwell, and at least one expert birder will be onboard to help visitors understand and enjoy all that they see. Pre-registration is required for "Fall Migration Cruises." Do this with a free phone call to 877-647-7397. Other details are found at http://www.mississippiexplorer.com/.

Bring cameras and binoculars!

See video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aeRaDMfBRo

An Afternoon with Frank Lloyd Wright

Lecture Event to be held in Quasqueton, Iowa at 1 p.m., Saturday, October 24th.

An Afternoon With Frank Lloyd Wright Save the date!

Plan to be in Quasqueton, Iowa on Saturday, October 24th for an event titled "An Afternoon with Frank Lloyd Wright". Why there? Well, the Wright-designed Lowell Walter House (or "Cedar Rock") is close by and this event is presented by the Cedar Rock Friends Group. Read more after the jump...

"An Afternoon with Frank Lloyd Wright" will feature two speakers: Steve Sikora and Phil Fedderson. Steve Sikora calls himself a Wright home restorationist. Mr. Sikora has an design firm in Minnesota. He and his wife are the current owner of the Wright designed Willey House. His presentation is titled "Wright to Life" and will include some first hand home-owner experiences.

Phil Feddersen is a semi-retired architect from Iowa who not only has been photographing Wright's buildings for almost 60 years he was a friend of Wright's personal secretary Eugene Masselink. His presentation is titled "Wrightian Fragments" and should be a wealth of information on many things Wright.

The Cedar Rock Friends Group is a growing group of wonderful people who are willing to volunteer their time and energies to support the Walter House at Cedar Rock State Park. Their defined mission statement is "To support and sustain the preservation, maintenance, and development of Frank Lloyd Wright's Walter House through education, promotion, and fundraising,"

The event starts at 1:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in downtown Quasqueton, IA and ends at 4:00 p.m. so that participants can catch the last tour of the day at Cedar Rock - which is at 4:30 p.m. Guests are asked to donate $7.00 to the Cedar Rock Friends Group to help defray expenses of the event. People with questions, or who want to reserve a chair are invited to e-mail Cedar_Rock@dnr.iowa.gov.

This looks like it will be a fantastic event that should not be missed! See you there!

Seating is limited, so please reserve your place today. For reservations or additional information, contact Pat Schmitz, Cedar Rock State Park by e-mail at Cedar_Rock@dnr.iowa.gov or by phone at (319) 934-3572.

Parks Group Wants Your Opinion-Public input effort begins with on-line survey

The Iowa Parks Foundation is asking park users and members of the general public to share their opinions about recent experiences in Iowa’s parks.

“Before this new organization jumps into comprehensive planning for ‘green infrastructure’ or begins a major fund-raising campaign; we want to understand how parks are used today and Iowans’ expectations for the future.” says Kent Sovern, Executive Director of the Parks Foundation.

The on-line survey is the first step in a citizen engagement process that will include community meetings that will be scheduled around the state in the late fall and early winter. The Foundation will host community forums as well as smaller targeted focus groups in each region of the state.

“We have designed an online assessment tool to help identify recreational interests, patterns of park use, quality and condition of state park facilities and user priorities for park improvements for the future.” Sovern said. “With broad-based citizen and community input, we hope to create an action plan that preserves, enhances and transforms the recreational and natural resources environment throughout Iowa.”

To participate in the survey, visit the Foundation’s web site at www.iaparks.org and click on the IPF logo on the right hand side of the page. It will take between 10 and 15 minutes to complete the survey.

Van Buren County - Scenic Drive Festival

Beautiful fall foliage will abound as visitors experience the Villages of Van Buren’s Scenic Drive Festival, Oct. 10-11.

Activities are scheduled at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park and in all 12 villages: Birmingham, Douds, Selma, Lebanon, Milton, Cantril, Farmington, Bonaparte, Bentonsport, Stockport, Keosauqua, and new this year, Mt. Sterling.

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park will again be hosting a pre-1840’s Buckskinners Rendezvous Camp to be held at Ely Ford on Saturday and Sunday. They will showcase period camping and skills, knife and hawk throwing demonstrations, a candy cannon, rope making, black powder shooting, basket making, period trade goods, a black smith, and food concession (fry bread available).

The DNR will also have exhibit booths set up.

On Sunday, the Friends of Lacey and Keosauqua Chamber of Commerce will host a 5K Run/2 Mile Trail Walk starting at 9 a.m. at the Lodge. There is a $15.00 pre-registration or $20.00 registration (day of) fee for this event.

Follow the marked “Scenic Drive” signs to each of the historic villages. There is no admission fee.

Activities will include arts, crafts, flea markets, garage sales, wine tasting/sales, Native American Pow Wow, buckskinners and family fun.

New events are the Fall Festival Rodeo at the Van Buren County Fairgrounds in Keosauqua and homemade Amish breakfast in Lebanon. Mt. Sterling’s activities include chainsaw carvers, demonstrations, tractor show, street dance and more.

Download a free brochure and map, or call 800-868-7822.

REAP Assemblies Continue throughout the State

Show support for Iowa's REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) program and help shape its future and priorities at one of the 17 assemblies coming up this fall.

REAP provides up to $20 million annually for critical conservation programs of open space protection, soil and water enhancement, land management, historical resource protection, natural roadside vegetation and conservation education.

Assemblies are held every two years in the areas of the state's 17 Councils of Government. At each public meeting, attendees learn about the overall REAP budget and recently-funded REAP projects in their region. Attendees also identify opportunities for the future regional REAP projects, recommend REAP policy changes and elect representatives to the REAP Congress.

Learn more about REAP assemblies at the DNR website.

Click here for a schedule of the remaining 2009 meetings.

Iowa's Natural Heritage: On the October 8 edition of The Iowa Journal

Thursday’s episode of The Iowa Journal takes to the great outdoors to explore Iowa’s role in the preservation and conservation of the state’s and the nation’s natural heritage. This special one-hour program airs Thursday, October 8 at 8 p.m. Portions of this program will be rebroadcast Friday, October 9 at 6:30 p.m. on statewide Iowa Public Television. The full one-hour show will air again on Saturday, October 10 at 8:30 a.m. It will also be available online at iptv.org/iowajournal.

In the first half hour of the program, Dan Kaercher takes viewers around the state to learn about people who have made and are making a difference to Iowa’s environment, in the past, the present and the future. Kaercher introduces viewers to four early Iowa conservationists: John F. Lacey, Charles Reuben Keyes, Ada Hayden, and Margo K. Frankel.

He also travels the Loess Hills in western Iowa and learns what people are doing to save the unusual topographical formation there. The program also visits Lakeside Lab on West Lake Okoboji. Founded in 1909 to teach students about “nature in nature,” Lakeside Lab offers opportunities students can’t find anywhere else.

The Thursday and Saturday broadcasts will also feature host Paul Yeager discussing environmental issues in the studio with Bill Northey, Iowa’s secretary of agriculture; Pat Boddy, deputy director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; former Congressman Neal Smith who served Iowa for 36 years in the U.S. House; Connie Mutel, from The University of Iowa, ecologist and author of Fragile Giants about Iowa’s Loess Hills and The Emerald Horizon: The History of Nature in Iowa; and Chad Graeve, natural resource specialist at the Hitchcock Nature Center near Honey Creek.

For more information about The Iowa Journal, visit www.iptv.org/iowajournal

Des Moines River Water Trail Campsite Dedication

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will designate a water trail campsite on the Des Moines River Water Trail at Yellow Banks County Park on October 2.

The Des Moines River in Polk County was designated as a state water trail earlier this spring, but the idea of a paddle-in/paddle-out campsite came as an addendum.

“It became apparent to us that there was a lack of suitable camping opportunities for paddlers along the Des Moines River between Saylorville and Red Rock,” said Loren Lown, Polk County Conservation natural resources specialist. “Yellow Banks seemed like an ideal place.”

The campsite is within 150 feet of the river and includes fire rings, picnic tables, and a shelter area. Reservations for this campsite will soon be available online through http://www.mycountyparks.com/.

The dedication will take place at 6 p.m. at the campsite. Robin Fortney, founder of Central Iowa Paddlers, will be leading a paddling excursion from Pleasant Hill Access (north side of river at Hwy. 65 and Vandalia Road) and arriving at the campsite in time for the dedication. If you are interested in floating this 4-mile stretch of the river, meet at the Pleasant Hill Access at 1 p.m. —you must have your own canoe or kayak.

“This is probably my favorite stretch of the water trail,” said Fortney. “It’s beyond the city limits and offers greater opportunities for wildlife viewing.”

“Primitive campsites accessible from the river are very popular amenities on our water trails,” said John Wenck, DNR river programs outreach coordinator. “It offers paddlers greater solitude and the opportunity for multi-day tripping without the need for daily shuttles.”

For more information on Iowa water trails, see www.iowadnr.gov/watertrails/.

Upcoming Park Programs on Iowa Public Television

In the spirit of the upcoming Ken Burns documentary, The National Parks: America's Best Idea, IPTV gave their first-ever 'Be more Awards' to three individuals who have been champions for Iowa Public Television and Iowa's natural resources.

On Wednesday evening, September 23, Former Congressman Neal Smith (Co-Chair of the Iowa Parks Foundation), Joe Crookham (President of the Iowa Parks Foundation) and Bob Jester (longtime Des Moines business leader and conservationist) were presented with the 'Be more Awards' by Dan Miller of IPTV. Following the presentation, we were entertained with a live closed circuit concert from Central Park in New York City.

Iowa Public Television is embracing the premiere broadcast of Ken Burns' The National Parks: America's Best Idea by showcasing the wide variety of natural wonders all around us. Through these programs, Iowans will be exposed to the beauty and wonder of our natural heritage on the air, on the ground, and online.

These films are a human history set against the most stunning backdrop imaginable. These films works their way chronologically through the history of the national parks featuring characters -- some famous, most not, from every walk of life -- who dedicated their lives to insuring all could enjoy these places. These films also explore how the national park system came to be and examines some -- but not all --of how these majestic places came to be national parks.

Visit the Web Site

The Iowa Parks Foundation is a proud local sponsor of The National Parks: America's Best Idea.

National Parks: America's Best Idea
The Scripture of Nature (1851-1890) (#101)
Sun, September 27, 2009 1:00 PM (IPTV)
Sun, September 27, 2009 7:00 PM (IPTV)
Sun, September 27, 2009 9:00 PM (IPTV)
Mon, September 28, 2009 7:00 AM (IPTV World)
Mon, September 28, 2009 1:00 PM (IPTV World)
In 1872, Congress acts to protect land that will become America's first national park, Yellowstone. Watch Online Play Video

THE NATIONAL PARKS: AMERICA'S BEST IDEA Schullery ... Historian Paul Schullery and former National Park Service director George Hartzog describe the power of the national parks.... 01:30 Play Video

THE NATIONAL PARKS: AMERICA'S BEST IDEA Collecting ... Tuan Luong, a climber and photographer who was so captivated by the splendor of the national parks that he decided to continue ... 03:08 Play Video

THE NATIONAL PARKS Yosemite's Buffalo Soldiers ... Yosemite ranger Shelton Johnson and his rediscovered the story of the African American soldiers who patrolled the parks ... 11:31 Play Video

THE NATIONAL PARKS Mount Rushmore: Telling America's ... Focuses on the new interpretive program at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, spearheaded by Supt. Gerard Baker. 09:33 Play Video

THE NATIONAL PARKS Manzanar: "Never Again" ... Stories of Japanese internment during World War II, Sue Kunitomi Embrey's efforts to commemorate Manzanar internment camp, ... 14:21 Watch more video from this program »

Iowa's National Parks Stories

Thu, September 24, 10:30 PM on IPTV Television producer Dayton Duncan talks with Iowa Public Television about the history of National Parks and the making of the PBS documentary series. Also featured are stories about Iowans who helped create our National Park system: John F. Lacey and William T. Hornaday. Plus, a glimpse of a wild 1921 adventure when Clinton, Iowa, boy scouts drove model T's to Yellowstone

Grand Lodges (#101)
Sun, September 27, 3:00 PM on IPTV

The story of Yellowstone's Old Faithful Lodge and Yosemite's luxurious Ahwahnee Hotel are detailed.

Canyon Lodges (#102)
Sun, September 27, 4:00 PM on IPTV

A close look at El Tovar in Grand Canyon National Park and Zion Lodge in Utah's Zion National Park.

Episode #201
Wed, September 23, 7:00 PM on IPTV

Visit Death Valley's Furnace Creek Inn and the Lake Quinault Lodge in the Olympic National Forest.

Roughing It In Style In Alaska and the Rockies (#202)

Rocky Mountain National Park is just out your back door at the grand and graceful Stanley Hotel.
Wed, September 23, 8:00 PM on IPTV

Glacier Lodges (#103)

Glacier Park Lodge, Lake McDonald, Many Glacier Lodge and Sperry Chalet in Montana are showcased. Sun, September 27, 5:00 PM on IPTV

Pacific Northwest Lodges (#104)

Visit Paradise Inn in Mount Rainier National Park and Timberline Lodge on Oregon's Mount Hood.

Sun, September 27, 6:00 PM on IPTV

The Scripture of Nature (1851-1890) (#101)

In 1872, Congress acts to protect land that will become America's first national park, Yellowstone.

Sun, September 27, 1:00 PM on IPTV

Sun, September 27, 7:00 PM on IPTV

Sun, September 27, 9:00 PM on IPTV

Mon, September 28, 7:00 AM on IPTV World

Mon, September 28, 1:00 PM on IPTV World

Mon, September 28, 5:00 PM on IPTV World

The Last Refuge (1890-1915) (#102)

At the end of the 19th century a conservation movement takes shape to protect America's wilderness.

Mon, September 28, 7:00 PM on IPTV

Mon, September 28, 9:30 PM on IPTV

Tue, September 29, 7:00 AM on IPTV World

Tue, September 29, 1:00 PM on IPTV World Tue, September 29, 5:00 PM on IPTV World

The Empire of Grandeur (1915-1919) (#103)

Established in 1916, the National Park Service protects the Grand Canyon from commercial interests.

Tue, September 29, 7:00 PM on IPTV

Tue, September 29, 9:00 PM on IPTV

“Cedar Rock Under Moonlight”

Start fall off the “Wright way” with your family by enjoying the Harvest Moon at the Walter residence Cedar Rock. Our annual Under Moonlight event will be Saturday October 3rd from 6-9pm.

Spice up your weekend with a trolley ride and an after-hours tour of the estate and then enjoy a fireside snack. The Walter House is close to home and something everyone should take the opportunity to experience.

This beautiful home perches on the Wapsipinicon River and is created mainly from brick, concrete, and glass. The grounds include a Wright designed entrance gate, the Usonian home, a boathouse, and council fire area for outdoor entertaining. This evening is an opportunity for you to view the home and grounds at your own pace. It is also your only chance to experience the typically inaccessible maid’s quarters and boathouse. For this event there are not formal tours offered but our knowledgeable staff and volunteers will be available to answer any questions you may have as you meander through the park.

This is a fund-raiser for the Walter House. Visit us at 2611 Quasqueton Diagonal Blvd (Buchanan Co. Road W-35), Independence. This State Park is funded solely through the Walter Charitable Trust Fund. Donations are never required, but are needed and appreciated. A $3.00 donation per adult will be graciously accepted. Photography is encouraged.

For more information call the visitor center at (319) 934-3572, or e-mail the park at Cedar_Rock@dnr.iowa.gov

When: Saturday, October 3, 2009
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where: Cedar Rock State Park The Walter House
2611 Quasqueton Diagonal Blvd. Independence, IA 50644
319.934.3572 Quasqueton, Iowa

Cedar Rock the Walter House - Katie Karsten, assistant manager

Pine Creek Grist Mill Heritage Day - Wildcat Den State Park

Visitors to the Pine Creek Grist Mill Heritage Day will find several new additions to the annual celebration Saturday, Sept. 19.

Tom Hanifan, president of the Friends of the Mill, coordinators of the event, said new live demonstrations will include basket-making by a weaving team, lace- making, traditionally known as tatting, and an antique tractor display by residents from the Walnut Grove area near Eldridge.

A local wood carver has also volunteered to demonstrate his craft.

In addition to the traditional offering of homemade pies and ice cream, A Guy and a Grill of Muscatine will sell freshly grilled sandwiches.

Heritage Day is an annual fundraiser staged by the Friends of the Pine Creek Grist Mill. The non-profit group, which was formed in 1996, is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the 162-year-old grist mill located at Wild Cat Den State Park.

All proceeds from the event go toward Mill-related work and preservation.

On Heritage Day, visitors can see the results of the group’s restoration efforts as the mill once again grinds corn.

Tom Hanifan, president of Friends of the Mill, said it is difficult to track the number of people who attend Heritage Day, but he estimates the count between 1,500 and 2,000.

The free event includes a free shuttle service between the Pine Creek Grist Mill and the Buckskinners’ Rendezvous, which is held throughout the weekend at the upper campground area of the park.

The Buckskinners will set up a temporary village, similar to the ones mountain men lived in during the Gold Rush-era.

The Friends of the Melpine Country School also helps organize the event. That group oversees the preservation of the 1877 one-room school house located near the Grist Mill. That historical site is also open for tours during Heritage Day.

Returning activities include canoe rides, music by the Port City Pearl Chapter of Sweet Adelines International and model steam engines.

Tin-type photographer Haven Noble of Mount Pleasant will also return this year.

Hanifan said Noble, a member of the Friends of the Mill, restored his Civil War-era camera and taught himself how to use it.

Noble uses the camera to take photos and develops them as Heritage Day visitors watch the process.

Details

What: Pine Creek Grist Mill Heritage Day

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19

Admission: Free

Where: Wild Cat Den State Park , located between Muscatine and Montpelier on Iowa Highway 22.

Contact: 563-263-4808

Information: The annual Buckskinner’s Rendezvous will be held Friday-Sunday, Sept. 18-20, in the upper deck of Wild Cat Den State Park. A free shuttle service is available between the Pine Creek Grist Mill and the Rendezvous sites.

Online at http://www.pinecreekgristmill.com/
http://www.pinecreekgristmill.com/PDF/MillHours2009.pdf

Maquoketa Caves State Park Appreciation Day

Maquoketa Caves State Park Appreciation Day

Saturday August 8 - 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Schedule of Events -

Rudy Vallejo-Native American Dance

10:30am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm

Live Music

Doug and Lisa Frey --performing from 1pm-3pm --Old Lodge Shelter

Hiking Tours -Flint Knapping - Visitor Center

10:30am & 12:30pm

Doug Gonner -Dutch Oven cooking demo

4:00-5:00 pm

Please join us in celebating our appreciation for YOU and the Maquoketa Caves. Bring your own chair. Come and enjoy free popcorn & Lemonade at the visitor's Center

9:00am - 5:00pm. For more information contact Maquoketa Caves at 563-652-5833.

Maquoketa Caves is probably Iowa’s most unique state park. Its caves, limestone formations and rugged bluffs provide visitors a chance to "step back" into geological time thousands of years. Caves vary from the 1,100′ Dancehall Cave with walkways and lighting system to Dugout Cave. The remaining caves are all different sizes and shapes. Some can be explored by walking while others can best be seen by crawling. In any case, a flashlight and old clothes and shoes are most helpful.

The caves at the state park have been found to release treasures such as tools and projectile points made of stone, hundreds of years of history just waiting to be explored by you.
Early recorded history tells of the Native Americans in the area, and that they were likely visitors to the Raccoon Creek valleys. From the discovery of the caves in the 1830’s by settlers until the present day explorers the caves have revealed the story of the past.

Beautiful milk white stalactites once hung from the ceilings and stalagmites rose from the floor. Souvenir hunters have robbed the caves of this rare beauty, but many formations remain.

The park contains more caves than any other state park in Iowa. A beautiful trail system links the caves, formations, and overlooks while providing an exciting hiking experience. Many areas on these trails have seen new construction, making the journey to the caves safer and easier. Trail highlights include the dramatic "Natural Bridge" which stands nearly 50 feet above Raccoon Creek, and the 17-ton "Balanced Rock".

The park has beauty all its own each season of the year. Spring wildflowers give way to the lush green growth of summer. Fall brings dramatic hues of yellow, gold and crimson. Snow transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Whatever the season, Maquoketa Caves has something special to offer.

TrailsHikers can enjoy the scenery along the 6 miles of trails. The trails in the eastern part of the park connect the park facilities and provide access to the caves. Trail highlights include the dramatic "Natural Bridge" which stand nearly 50 feet above Raccoon Creek, 17-ton "Balanced Rock", and "Dancehall Cave." A trail in the western area of the park takes hikers past a restored prairie, an experimental oak savanna restoration and a wildlife food plot.

Interpretive Center

The former Sager’s Museum building has been converted into an interpretive center. This new facility contains detailed information about the geology of cave formations, park history, and a background of the early "inhabitants" of the park.

It also contains a "video tour" of the park, for those who are unable to withstand the rugged terrain that the park offers. This facility will be open on the weekends during the summer and by special arrangement with the park office.

Location: Maquoketa is seven miles southeast of the park. Actual address is 10970 98th St., Maquoketa, IA 52060
Phone: 563/652-5833

DNR DIRECTOR TO HOLD PUBLIC FORUMS ACROSS IOWA

Richard Leopold, director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, will be holding public forums across Iowa again this year to discuss natural resource issues with Iowans.

The first forum will be held at Honey Creek Resort State Park on Thursday, Aug. 6.

“I really look forward to hearing from Iowa’s citizens. Last year, we got great feedback and ideas from more than 300 attendees,” said Leopold about the seven forums held last year. “Our relationship with Iowans is something we highly value within the DNR and we will work together on the things most affecting our natural resources.”

Each public forum begins at 6 p.m. with Director Leopold outlining the DNR’s top priorities, the environmental report card, providing an update on budget cuts and discussing local issues. Another hour-and-a-half will be devoted to answering questions from the public.

Public forums scheduled for Director Leopold are as follows listed by date:

Moravia
Honey Creek Resort State Park Lodge
Thursday, Aug. 6, 6 p.m.

Lehigh
Dolliver State Park Lodge
Thursday, Aug. 20, 6 p.m.

Solon
Lake Macbride State Park Main Lodge
Thursday, Aug. 27, 6 p.m.

Bellevue
Bellevue State Park Lodge
Thursday, Sept. 3, 6 p.m.

Bedford
Lake of Three Fires State Park Lodge
Tuesday, Sept. 8, 6 p.m.

Clear Lake
Clear Lake State Park Lodge
Thursday, Sept. 17, 6 p.m.

Sioux City
Stone State Park Lodge
Thursday, Sept. 24, 6 p.m.

MEDIA CONTACT: Tammie Krausman, DNR, at (515) 402-8763 or Tammie.Krausman@dnr.iowa.gov.

“Mob the Quab” Iowa Mountain Bike Champeonship Race

On Sunday, August 9, 2009 the Iowa Mountain Bike Championship Series heads south.

By Bruce Brown

Have you heard of the famous Chequamegon 40 in Wisconsin that is run on cross country ski trails, forest roads, snowmobile trails and wooded lanes? That's right!! We now have a "Cheqaumegon like" race in our very own Iowa series.

Coming for the second time is Iowa's very own “Mob the Quab” backwoods, super fast, fat tire XC race held on a course loop that rolls on the multi-use cross country ski, snowmobile, and hiking trail that circles Lake Ahquabi. The race loop utilizes backwood sections of the wooded trails throughout Lake Ahquabi State Park to make for a scenic race filled with unique challenges.

COURSE: The 6.75 mile loop includes a trip around Lake Ahquabi's multi-use trail with additional sections that include backwood trails. You will encounter gravel, dirt, roots, ruts, grass, logs, wooden bridges, railroad tie stairs, climbs, fast descents and the best nature has to offer on this scenic course. The loop will be the perfect test of one's fitness with all of the full throttle speed and all of the climbing, but will not be technical in nature to scare off the entry level racer. In fact, this will be a perfect venue for first timers and experts alike.

RACE DAY SCHEDULE: [Mass Start for 2009]

CAT 1 Expert Men/Women's Open - 12:00pm (prizes: 100% expert entry fee pay out for top 3 in Expert Open and Women's Open categories)

CAT 2 Sport Men/Sport Women/Singlespeed/Sport Junior - 12:00pm (prizes and awards for winners)

CAT 3 Beginner Men/Beginner Women/Beginner Junior - 12:00pm (prizes and awards for winners)

Awards Ceremony: After the completion of all categories (approximately 2:00 pm)

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:Registration is on the day of the race starting at 9:00am and closes 15 minutes before each race begins.Entry Fee: $20 for Expert/Sport/Singlespeed; $15 for Beginner/Junior

DIRECTIONS:Lake Ahquabi State Park is five miles south of Indianola (17 miles south of Des Moines) on Hwy. 65/69 and one mile west on G-58. Enter Lake Ahquabi State Park through the main entrance where G-58 ends and the entrance gate is located at the 4 way stop. Parking and registration will be at the Lake Ahquabi Lodge (once you enter the park, take the first left at the Lodge sign). We have the Lodge rented for the day of the race and restrooms are located inside.

MAKE IT A FAMILY OUTING:The start/finish line area below the Lodge is only a few minutes walk from the swimming beach and boat rental. Bring the entire family and let the kids swim and build sand castles. Or rent one of the many canoes, kayaks, double kayaks, row boats, or paddle boats available. There is a concession stand with food and drinks as well as lots of shade and picnic tables for those seeking to avoid the sun.

YOUR MOB the QUAB Race Director/Promoter:Bruce Brown

More Information: brown.bruce@mchsi.com

515-961-0251; 515-205-4295