Event - Prairie Seed Harvest

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

11204 NE 118th Ave Maxwell, Iowa 50161 United States

Collect native prairie seed ready to harvest from select plant species. This seed will be planted in future habitat restoration projects across Polk County.

Physical difficulty: Easy. Seed harvesting is an easy and relaxing task but note that you will be walking across uneven terrain in tall grasses and wildflowers. What to Bring: Dress for the weather. Required - closed-toe footwear. Recommended – long pants, long socks, work gloves, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Gloves provided for those without. In an effort to promote sustainability at this event, please bring a reusable water bottle. Headphones to listen to your favorite music, podcast, book, etc. are welcome for this type of activity. Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.

By registering for this event, I acknowledge I am filling an open position. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to attend, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this event.

Seed Harvesting

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt

OctoberSeptember

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Event - Prairie Seed Harvest
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