Paws-itively Fun Selfie Scavenger Hunt
Thursday, July 9
6:00-7:00 pm
Environmental Learning Center
Grab your dog and your cell phone and join us for a fun and unique outdoor adventure! As you explore, use the scavenger hunt list to find different items and snap a selfie with your dog at each stop. After the event, some of our favorite photos will be shared on Mahaska County Conservation’s Facebook page!
We will meet at the amphitheater next to the Environmental Learning Center. All dogs will receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate, and Mahaska County B.A.R.K. Ranger dog tags will also be available for purchase for $10 each (cash or check payable to FMCC). We will meet at the amphitheater in the nature playscape.
Coffee Club
Friday, July 10
9:00-10:00 am
Environmental Learning Center
Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature.
This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that has the colors RED, WHITE, and BLUEon it to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.
Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing
Wednesday, July 22
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center
Step back in time and try your hand at one of the oldest hunting tools in the world! Participants will learn the history of the atlatl—a spear-throwing device used by ancient cultures thousands of years ago to hunt large game—and discover how it helped early people survive. After learning the basics, kids will practice proper technique and develop their skills by throwing atlatl darts at targets. The atlatl works by extending the arm, allowing for greater speed and distance than throwing by hand alone.
Pre-registration is needed.
Registration Link: Prehistoric Skills: Atlatl Throwing – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program.
Note: This skill is easiest for kids ages 6 and older.
Fun with Blank Park Zoo!
Thursday, July 23
5:30-6:45 pm
Environmental Learning Center (lower level)
The Blank Park Zoo is returning to the Environmental Learning Center! Join us for a fun and WILD time as we learn all about animals and how we take action for wildlife to protect their habitat. We will explore different habitats and learn about the endangered animals that live there. Discover how small actions can make big impacts on the wild.
Doors will open at 5:15 pm to help you get a seat. Come early and enjoy the nature playscape just outside the ELC!
Registration is NOT needed and there is NO COST to attend. All ages are welcome!
Evening Fossil Hunt
Thursday, July 30
6:00-7:00 pm
Russell Wildlife Area
Join us for a hands-on fossil hunt and discover pieces of ancient life hidden beneath your feet! Search for fossilized horn corals, brachiopods, trilobites, and clam shells—remnants of a time when this area was once covered by water. Digging tools, collection baggies, and identification sheets will be provided. This fun, treasure-hunting experience is perfect for anyone who loves exploring and getting their hands a little dirty.
Pre-registration is needed.
Registration Link: https://www.mycountyparks.com/…/28954/Evening-Fossil-Hunt
Russell Wildlife Area is located at 2254-200th Street, New Sharon, IA 50207. We will meet at the double gates next to the first pond seen by the road. Follow the lane to the south side of the pond.
OWLS Program “Honeybees & Bee Keeping”
Friday, July 31
1:00-2:00 pm
Environmental Learning Center
Adults of all ages are invited to join the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program. This month, guest speaker Bri Marshall will represent the Back-to-Basics Bee Club as the Honey Queen and share her knowledge of honeybees and beekeeping. Come learn about the fascinating world of bees, their importance to our ecosystem, and what it takes to care for a hive.
Pre-registration is needed. You can sign up here, by calling (641)673-9327, or emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov.
Online registration link: OWLS Program “Honeybees & Beekeeping” – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
Sign up soon! We will need to have 5 or more people signed up to have the program.
