Polk County Conservation

Join us for a rewarding day in the great outdoors as we work together to protect one of the most endangered ecosystems on planet Earth – Iowa’s tallgrass prairies. Alongside staff and your fellow volunteers, we will spend a day collecting seed from native plants that are ready to harvest. Your efforts play a crucial role in Polk County Conservation’s mission to conserve native habitat. By diversifying local plant genetics and expanding tallgrass prairies across our parks, we contribute to carbon storage, flood control, soil loss prevention, recreational opportunities for people, and provide food and shelter for wildlife. This work not only benefits our local environment but also has far-reaching positive effects across the globe. As a volunteer, you'll enhance your plant identification skills and learn about the significance of prairies, all while contributing to the restoration of these important grasslands. By saving prairies in Iowa, we take a meaningful step toward preserving the environment on a global scale. Join us to make a difference not only in our community but across the world. Upcoming Dates: September 10, 13, 20, 24, 27 @ 10 AM - 3 PM October 11, 15, 22, 25 @ 10 AM - 3 PM Schedule: 9:45 - 10 AM: Volunteer check-in 10 - 10:15 AM: Project introduction and safety chat 10:15 - 10:30 AM: Mobilize to harvest location 10:30 AM - 12 PM: Morning harvest session 12 - 1 PM: Break 12:45 - 1 PM: Volunteer check-in for new afternoon participants *if you are returning from volunteering in the morning session, meet back at harvest location 1 - 3 PM: Afternoon harvest session Location: Meet at the Natural Resources Headquarters located at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt