Polk County Conservation
Join staff on select evenings this fall as we gather native prairie seed ready to harvest at Chichaqua. Seed harvesting is both a relaxing and rewarding volunteer experience that directly benefits Iowa’s critically endangered tallgrass prairie ecosystem. It provides participants with an introduction to the beauty of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem as well as its historical and ecological importance, and is a valuable way to contribute to land restoration efforts across Polk County. Upcoming Dates Fall Equinox Celebration: Friday, September 20 @ 6 – 8:30 PM | Volunteer check-in @ 5:45 PM Join us for a bonfire following the evening seed harvest as we say goodbye to summer and usher in the fall season. *Free overnight group tent camping provided for all registered participants. Meet at the Youth Camp Area located at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt | 8700 NE 126th Avenue, Maxwell, Iowa 50161 Indigenous Peoples Day: Monday, October 14 @ 5:30 -7:30 PM | Volunteer check-in @ 5:15 PM This seed harvest event will be held in celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day, where we’ll honor the land, its people, and the traditions that have sustained prairies for generations by collecting seeds to help restore this endangered ecosystem. Meet at the Natural Resources Headquarters located at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt | 11204 NE 118th Ave, Maxwell, Iowa 50161
For questions please contact: conservationvolunteers@polkcountyiowa.gov For day of event questions, please contact our volunteer coordinators: Melissa Dempsey | 515-323-5396 Julie Perreault | 515-323-5351 Polk County Conservation strives to host inclusive, accessible events and meetings that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-323-5300 or pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.
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.
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