PAST EVents
2024 WINTER EVENTS: Besides the annual January winter walks, there are also two winter presentations: The Birds and Wildlife of Ada Hayden Heritage Park by Wolfgang Oesterreich; and, Dan Haug on Story County’s rivers and creeks. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library at 515 Douglas Avenue, will have a Zoom option and are co-sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation. These events are free, open to the public and do not require registration.
The Iowa Prairie Network will also host its Winter Seminar in Ames this year. Presentations, a silent auction, conservation exhibits, and food for purchase or donation are part of this annual event.The event is open to the public and does not require pre-preregistration. Look for more details on the web at Iowa Prairie Network.
The first quarter of 2024 will wrap up with the annual Ames Reads Leopold where we celebrate and reflect on the land ethic of Aldo Leopold and other conservationists.
WINTER WALKS: Shake off the holidays with a walk in a park. It can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles, a walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothing is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
We’ll walk as long as the weather or other conditions are safe, and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. All walks end with a "picnic" of whatever the walkers bring. The walks are open to the public, free and do not require registration. The winter walks are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and are led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Thursday, January 4, 2024 Winter Walk: Anderson Access - The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City. We will meet at the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 11, 2024 Winter Walk: Peterson Park West - The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010. We will meet at the west edge of the parking lot near the woods. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 18, 2024 Winter Walk: Heart of Iowa Trail Cambridge - We will meet where the trail crosses S Main Avenue, Cambridge, across from the grain bins. Park on the east side of the road only. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Library Presentation: Story County’s Waterways by Dan Haug. Dan is a Water Quality Specialist at Prairie Rivers of Iowa and will speak on watersheds, water and water monitoring. The presentation is at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue in the Farrell T Brown Room.
Thursday, January 25, 2024 Winter Walk: McFarland Park - 56461 180th St., Ames. Park in the southwest area of the parking lot. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Saturday, February 24th, 2024 Iowa Prairie Network Winter Seminar: A day long series of presentations, conservation displays and a silent auction will be held at Ames High School, 1801 Ridgewood Ave, Ames. Details will be posted as they are finalized at Iowa Prairie Network. The Outdoor Alliance is a sponsor of this event led by Iowa Prairie Network as part of our commitment to support others that are also enhancing outdoor recreation, education and conservation.
Thursday, February 29th, 2024 Library Presentation: The Birds of Ada Hayden Heritage Park by Wolfgang Oesterreich. Wolfgang’s passion is made tangible for all of us after his years of observing, photographing and recording birds and other animals. He rides his trike at Ada Hayden daily and records the wildlife he sees. The presentation is at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue in the Farrell T Brown Auditorium. After the February presentation, there will be a break, followed by the annual meeting.
Saturday, March 23, 2024 Ames Reads Leopold: Join our guests as they read selections from the land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, continues to be relevant today. Readers share essays from this book, his other books and from other conservation writers. The readings will be from 1:30-4:00 p.m. at the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor of the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue.
2023 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles or a walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothes is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
Besides the winter hikes, there are also two winter presentations: Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will talk about recent, current, and upcoming projects; and, Jim Pease will take us across Iowa and down its rivers highlighting the plants and animals along the way. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library, have a Zoom option and are co-sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes Thursdays 1:30 - 3:30 in January The hikes are a great way to get out and explore public lands with others. Unless otherwise notified, the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. Please leave your dog warm at home for these winter hikes. All hikes end with a "picnic" of shared food.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Hike - Thursday, January 5, 2023 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 12, 2023 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area on the south side of E 18 and west of I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City before you get to the river from the interstate.
Presentation - Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will update us about some of the many parks, trails, and other projects recently completed as well as current and anticipated projects.
A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar at: https:// www.amespubliclibrary.org/event/winter-presentation-outdoor-alliance-story-county. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 19, 2023 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. It is the side of the river closes to Highway 69 and is the lane to the boat launch on the river.
Hike - Thursday, January 26, 2023 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010. The park remains open even though the trail around the lake is closed.
Presentation - Tuesday, January February 7, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Jim Pease will present Paddling for Plants and Critters, stories of his paddles on over 2,200 miles of Iowa rivers in the last eight years. Jim has travelled to many wild places all over the world, but Iowa rivers have always been his home. He'll share his enthusiasm for that home with us.
Jim is the most recent recipient of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundations Hagie Award for his many contributions to conservation, education, and outdoor recreation over the years. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar at: https:// www.amespubliclibrary.org/event/annual-meeting-outdoor-alliance-story-county. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. Jim’s presentation will be followed by a short break and the annual meeting.
Ames Reads Leopold - Sunday March 19, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Ames Public Library Join Neil Hamilton and other guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, is still relevance and afavorite of naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers.
Ames Reads Leopold is a community wide event will be in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor of the Ames Public Library at 515 Douglas Avenue. The readings and program are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and Ames Public Library, Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Iowa State University (ISU) Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Environment, ISU Bioethics Program, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Office of Sustainability/Live Green! Initiative, ISU Sustainable Agriculture Graduate Student Association.
2024 SPRING & EARLY SUMMER EVENTS
Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 9 AM - 2 PM, Ames Creek Cleanup: Be a volunteer and get wet, dirty and tired and feel good about it. The City of Ames, Story County Conservation, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, the Skunk River Paddlers, Outdoor Alliance as well as other groups and individuals. Registration is required so we can plan for canoes and supplies and contact you with updates on water levels and logistics. Meet at Ames City Hall (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA 50010) in the west parking lot.
Spring Wildflower Walks Enjoy a series of spring walk as we explore our local public parks and the ephemeral blooms of spring wildflowers in the woods. The walks are free and registration is not required. The walks are led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Thursday, April 25, 2024, Spring Wildflower Walk, Story City Swinging Bridge: The Swinging Bridge is accessed from Broad Street just east of the river. We will begin our walk from the gravel parking lot near the Swinging Bridge at 1:30.
Thursday, May 2, 2024 Spring Wildflower Walk, McFarland Park: McFarland is at 56461180th St, Ames IA 50010. We will begin our walk from the west edge of the gravel parking lot at 1:30.
Thursday, May 9, 2024 Spring Wildflower Walk, Robinson Wildlife Area: Robinson is at 29490 632nd Avenue, Maxwell IA 50161. We will begin our walk from the parking lot at 1:30.
Tuesday, May 21 2024, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks beginning at 7 PM: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg lead a prairie walk at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddles at Ada Hayden Heritage Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers including the Skunk River Paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue in Ames and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
2024 SUMMER EVENTS
There are lots of ways to enjoy summer outdoors. Several community events are listed below.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddles at Ada Hayden Heritage Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers including the Skunk River Paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue in Ames and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Tuesday, June 18, Doolittle Prairie Walks beginning at 7 PM: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg as he leads a prairie walk at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. The Prairie walks are open to all and are free.
Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, June 20, 5:30pm Tree Trek and Identification: Join Emily Kucera and learn how to recognize different tree species in the park by their unique features. Meet at the North West Parking Lot off Hyde Ave in Ada Hayden Park (42.069004, -93.639929). This event is hosted by the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Wednesday, June 26, 5:30 Wild Wetlands Adventure: Join Dr. Stewart and learn about the various animals that call the park home. Meet at the SW parking lot on Stonebrook Road for a wetland adventure (42°03’50.3"N 93°38'07.3"W). This event is hosted by the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
July 16, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
July 20-27, 2024 RAGBRAI: The first and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at RAGBRAI.
Friday, July 26 - Saturday August 3, 2024, Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire in Ames and many are moving. Rummage Rampage distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campustown’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop; more information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
August 20, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
September 17, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
2023 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles or a walking stick, cleats for your
shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothes is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
There are also two winter presentations: Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will talk about recent, current, and upcoming projects; and, Jim Pease will take us across Iowa and down its rivers highlighting the plants and animals along the way. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library, have a Zoom option and are co-
sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes Thursdays 1:30 - 3:30 in January The hikes are a great way to get out and explore public lands with others. Unless otherwise notified, the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. Please leave your dog warm at home for these winter hikes. All hikes end with a "picnic" of shared food.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Hike - Thursday, January 5, 2023 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 12, 2023 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area on the south side of E 18 and west of I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City before you get to the river from the interstate.
Presentation - Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will update us about some of the many parks, trails, and other projects recently completed as well as current and anticipated projects. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of StoryCounty, and Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 19, 2023 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. It is the side of the river closes to Highway 69 and is the lane to the boat launch on the river.
Hike - Thursday, January 26, 2023 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010. The park remains open even though the trail around the lake is closed.
Presentation - Tuesday, January February 7, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Ames Public
Library Jim Pease will present Paddling for Plants and Critters, stories of his paddles on over 2,200 miles of Iowa rivers in the last eight years. Jim has travelled to many wild places all over the world, but Iowa rivers have always been his home. He'll share his enthusiasm for that home with us.
Jim is the most recent recipient of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundations Hagie Award for his many contributions to conservation, education, and outdoor recreation over the years. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. Jim’s presentation will be followed by a short break and the annual meeting.
2023 SPRING EVENTS It’s easier to get out with the longer and warmer days already. Join us for the annual woodland walk in April to see a progression of spring flowers that bloom before the trees and bushes leaf out and block sunlight from the woodland floor.
Prairie Walks A series of monthly prairie walk beginning in May is another way to enjoy a progression of prairie plants blooming as spring turns to summer. Service outings, paddling at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, bike rides and more are listed below directly in this email and on the attached pdf file.
Monday, April 10, 2023 Landscaping for Wildlife Presentation Inviting wildlife into your yard can be a rewarding experience for you and the wildlife is presented by Story County Conservation at the Neveda library on 613 K Avenue, Nevada from 6:30 to 7:30 pm; Please register by April 9 with the Nevada Public Library.
Thursday, April 27, 2023 Spring Wildflower Walk We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the the Robison Wildlife Acres parking lot at 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. We plan to end our walk at 3:30. This event is free, registration is not required and is a rain or shine event. The walk is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Saturday, April 29, 2023 Stash the Trash Stash the Trash is an annual volunteer community clean-up sponsored by the City of Ames and listed as a community service. More information will be posted at Stash the Trash.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the third Tuesday of the month prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, and begin at 7:00 The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Saturday, May 20, 2023 Mayor and City Council's Bike Ride Ames Mayor John Haila and members of the Ames City Council invite the community to participate in a family-friendly bike ride around Ames, starting and ending at City Hall.
The ride will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 20, in the west parking lot at Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. Bicyclists of all ages and experience levels are welcome to join the ride. There is no pre-registration necessary or cost to participate. Bike helmets are strongly encouraged. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Thursday, June 1, 2023 Sleepy Hollow Cleanup is a volunteer supported effort of Story County Conservation and the Skunk River Paddlers. Sleepy Hollow is 646 W Riverside Road, Ames, Iowa just across the highway on Riverside. Join paddlers and their friends remove any litter.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the third Tuesday of the month prairie walks. See Tuesday May 16 above for more details.
Sunday, Jun 25, 2023 Ames Triathlon Besides an athletic event, there are also opportunities for safety boating for the swimming event at Ada Hayden Heritage Park in Ames and other volunteer opportunities. More information is at Ames Triathlon.
Monday June 26 to Thursday June 29, 2023 North American Prairie Conference This event has field trips, symposia, keynote speakers and other events. Register for one or more days at North American Prairie Conference where you will also find more details about the conference. This event is co-hosted by our partners, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.
2023 SUMMER EVENT Nature walks, paddling, music in the park and RAGBRAI are some of the outdoor events this summer in Story County. Details about these and other events are listed below.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting a series of Thursday evening events. The time and meeting locations vary by event. Details are below by date. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 6:30pm - Make A Basket: Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE shelter to check-in.
Thursday, July 13, 2023 Meet at 8:30pm - About Bugs: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SE parking lot at Calhoun Park which is at 4300-4312 Dawes Dr, Ames.
Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 5:30pm - Prairie Walk: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 RAGBRAI in Ames: The longest and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at Ames 2023 RAGBRAI.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly evening prairie walks. See the prairie flora change each month. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm - Flying Friends: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
July 29 - August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and many are moving. Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop. More information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
Thursday August 3, 2023 at 6:30pm - Nature Photography: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 6:30pm - Faces in the Stones: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Tuesday August 15, 2023 September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at the monthly prairie walks and see the changes over the summer. See July 25, 2023 Prairie Walk above for details.
Thursday, August 17, 6:30pm - How to Find Wild Food: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 6:30pm - Pasta Night: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. A pesto pasta dish using a foraged invasive plant is the main entrée. Please bring your own plate and fork!
Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 6:30pm - Fungi: Meet at Ada Hayden’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Explore how fungi fit in the ecosystem puzzle.
Friday July 28 through Saturday August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage Volunteers This is a community garage sale that pairs unwanted items with others seeking low-cost options for furnishing a home and help keep useable items out of the landfill. Contact us by early July if you are interested in volunteering at the Rummage Rampage for The Outdoor Alliance. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames in partnership with the ISU Office of Sustainability host this event. For more information or to volunteer email .
RECAP: March 2023 Ames Reads Leopold at Ames Public Library
Ames has annually celebrated Aldo Leopold's contributions to American conservation through reading his essays in a community event since 2008. Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the early advocate of wildlife conservation and a strong advocate for a "Land Ethic” in America. Although Leopold's A Sand County Almanac was first published in 1949, his words continue to be as poignant today as then.
This year’s speakers included Erv Klaas, founder of the event; Mike Meetz, well-known local conservationist; Vivian Todd, an Ames student; Michael Cook and Gabriel Johnson, ISU Sustainable Agriculture graduate students; and Zoe Stonetree, English Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Environment graduate student. Neil Hamilton, emeritus professor of law and the former director of the Agricultural Law Center at Drake University, was the featured speaker discussing “The Land, The River and Nature.” Bruce Wight, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, was the moderator.
Partners for Ames Reads Leopold included Ames Public Library; Aldo Leopold Foundation; Creative Writing & Environment at ISU; ISU Bioethics Program; The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park; Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture; Office of Sustainability/Live Green! Initiative; Outdoor Alliance of Story County; Prairie Rivers of Iowa; Story County Conservation; The Sustainable Agriculture Student Association (SASA) at ISU; The Community Academy.
2023 SUMMER EVENT Nature walks, paddling, music in the park and RAGBRAI are some of the outdoor events this summer in Story County. Details about these and other events are listed below.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park (Ada Hayden Park) 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, and, are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service.
Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting a series of Thursday evening events. The time and meeting locations vary by event. Details are below by date. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 6:30pm - Make A Basket: Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE shelter to check-in.
Thursday, July 13, 2023 Meet at 8:30pm - About Bugs: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SE parking lot at Calhoun Park which is at 4300-4312 Dawes Dr, Ames.
Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 5:30pm - Prairie Walk: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 RAGBRAI in Ames: The longest and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at Ames 2023 RAGBRAI.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly evening prairie walks. See the prairie flora change each month. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm - Flying Friends: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
July 29 - August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and many are moving. Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop. More information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
Thursday August 3, 2023 at 6:30pm - Nature Photography: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 6:30pm - Faces in the Stones: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Tuesday August 15, 2023 September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at the monthly prairie walks and see the changes over the summer. See July 25, 2023 Prairie Walk above for details.
Thursday, August 17, 6:30pm - How to Find Wild Food: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 6:30pm - Pasta Night: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. A pesto pasta dish using a foraged invasive plant is the main entrée. Please bring your own plate and fork!
Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 6:30pm - Fungi: Meet at Ada Hayden’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Explore how fungi fit in the ecosystem puzzle.
All September - Making Change with Your Change at JAX
JAX been the go-to place for outdoor gear, long supported outdoor recreation, education and conservation and is doing so again. The Deppe Family Conservation Area by Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) from Bob and Carol Deppe, who wanted the land protected. The change round up at JAX will help raise funds for Story County Conservation to acquire this land for public use.
The Deppe acquisition will add 127 acres of upland wildlife habitat adjacent to McFarland Park’s 238 acres of existing habitat. The Deppe acquisition includes timber, a small stream, and more than 90 acres of open field which can be restored to prairie. Plans include trail links to McFarland Park.
The Outdoor Alliance has raised funds for several other land acquisitions in Story County as well as and supporting other projects and events acquisitions have supported in Story County since 2013 thanks to donors like you.
Thursday, September 7, 2023, 6:30pm - A Feathery Feature: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Bring binoculars if you have some. Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting this event. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Saturday, September 9, 2023 Monarch Magic 10am - 1pm: Experience the magic of tagging a monarch butterfly to help scientists track their migration. Participate in other fun activities to learn more about this butterfly and other pollinators. This is a free, family-friendly event led by Prairie Rivers of Iowa and the Outdoor Alliance. Ada Hayden Heritage Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. More information is at Prairie Rivers of Iowa
Friday & Saturday, Sept 15 and 16, 2023, Wild Women of the Woods: Story County Conservation’s Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills and network with women with similar interests. The Outdoor Alliance is again supporting this annual program. Details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
Sunday, September 17, 2023 - The Great Ames Adventure Race (GAAR): hosted by the Ames Jaycees has been cancelled.
Tuesday September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the last of this year’s monthly prairie walks. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation County Conservation.
Collecting Prairie Seed - Saturday, Sept 23, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Join other volunteers to collect local prairie seeds. Collecting local seed is the first step to prairie restorations on public lands.This event is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteer, Steve Lekwa. This event is free and registration is not required.
Gear: Best to dress for time in a prairie with long sleeve shirt and pants, socks and shoes as well as gloves to protect yourself from scratches and any hungry insects. Tucking your long pants into your socks and spraying with Deet is more than a good idea to consider. Directions: Hickory Grove is at 67464 250th Street, Colo IA 50056. We will meet at the Meadowlark Hill shelter. Turning into the park from 250th Street, go past the campground and the beach area until you see a sign for the Meadowlark Hill Shelter.
Saturday, September 30, Ames EcoFair 2023 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM The Ecofair is hosted by the City of Ames in the parking lot west of City Hall at 515 Clark Ave, Ames, as well as on Fifth Street (on the south side of City Hall). Learn more about City rebates, programs, and services that encourage conservation, as well as the community groups working with the city.
2023 FALL EVENTS Fall kicks off with another large full moon, cooler morning and nights and shorter days. Fall also ushers in a series of three Thursday afternoon fall foliage walks sponsors by the Outdoor Alliance.
Three other events from Story County Conservation and other groups are also listed as a community service including a night hike, Dr. Neil Hamilton’s talk about his new book and a silent auction, as well as a nature summit with its own speakers and workshops.
Thursday Afternoon Fall Foliage Walks: Enjoy a series of three fall walks as we explore our local public parks. These walks are free and do not require registration. All walks begin at 1:30 and wrap up by 3:30. We end our walks sharing a light snack brought by the hikers. The fall walks are led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Thursday, October 12, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at the South Skunk River Trail at Anderson’s Access at 56743 150th Street, Story City. We will begin our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river.
Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 6:45 p.m: Dr. Neil Hamilton’s Presentation and Silent Auction: Central Iowa Sierra Club will be holding this event at the Northwest Community Center at 5110 Franklin Avenue, Des Moines.
Dr Neil Hamilton, author, educator, environmentalist and a farmer, has had many roles in government and on non-profit boards. Dr. Neil Hamilton, emeritus professor of law and former director of the Agricultural Law Center at Drake will speak about his new book, The River Knows: How Water and Land Can Shape our Future.
Please note that payment for auction items will be by check or cash only. Proceeds to benefit the Iowa Chapter of Sierra Club for their environmental work. More information is at https://www.sierraclub.org/iowa/central-iowa and is listed here as a community service.
Thursday, October 19, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at Robison Wildlife Area at 29490 632nd Avenue, Maxwell IA 50161. We will begin our walk from the parking lot at 1:30.
Thursday October 26, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at West Peterson Park at 55310 180th St., Ames IA 50010. We will gather at the east end of the park past the boat ramp near the tree line and begin our walk at 1:30.
Friday, Oct. 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m: Creatures of the Night at McFarland Park: Join Story County Conservation staff for a night hike through the woods where you will learn about Iowa animal tracks and creatures of the night. Each group will get a blacklight flashlight to use to find glowing animal tracks and will navigate the woods by full moon light. Afterwards, relax beside a campfire and enjoy the full moon. Register online by October 25 with Story County Conservation. McFarland Park is at 56461 180th St, Ames.
Thursday & Friday, November 16 – 17, 2023: Nature Summit at Drake University: Nature advocates and organizations share a common goal: to enhance, protect and preserve nature's diversity. The summit will engage, energize, and empower Iowans whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting to explore the great outdoors that we depend on and that now depends on us.
Connecting with like-minded individuals is both encouraging and an informal learning opportunity. You will also learn from experts in the field and discover new ways to make a positive impact on the environment. With a variety of workshops, presentations, and activities, there’s something for everyone at this event that will leave you inspired and empowered. Drake University is at 2507 University Ave, Des Moines. information is at https://www.iowanature.org/ and is listed as a community service.
2022 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions.
There are also two winter presentations: Story County’s Watershed; and, Land Protection in a Changing Environment. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library and have a Zoom option. Both presentations are also co-sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes All the hikes require registration. Unless otherwise notified; the hikes go on as long as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. Please leave your dog warm and at home for these winter hikes.
All hikes would normally end with a "picnic" of shared food, but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it would be best to bring your own treats or store bought individually packaged treats.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Thursday, January 6, 2022 Winter Hike Anderson Access The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City. Registration is required and limited. We will meet at the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 Winter Hike Peterson Park - West, Story County The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010. Registration is required and limited. We will meet at the west edge of the parking lot near the lake. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 20, 2022 Winter Hike Heart of Iowa Trail, Cambridge. Registration is required and limited. We will meet where the trail crosses S Main Avenue, Cambridge, across from the grain bins. Park on the east side of the road only. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 27, 2022 Winter Hike McFarland Park, 56461 180th St., Ames. Registration is required and limited. Park in the southwest area of the parking lot. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, Jan 27, 2022 Presentation: Story County Watersheds, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option. Sara Carmichael, Watershed Coordinator for Story County, will be discussing the county’s water quality efforts. She will review practices like the volunteer water quality monitoring program, new edge of field nutrient program, and stream restoration efforts. She will also highlight how the county’s different partnerships including with city, state, and federal agencies will help Story County achieve goals identified in the Countywide Watershed Assessment. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. A Zoom link will be posted two weeks in advance of the program on the Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/story-county-watersheds.
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 Presentation & Annual Meeting: Land Protection in a Changing Climate, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option. Joe McGovern is the President of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. is a nonprofit conservation organization protecting and restoring Iowa’s land, water and wildlife across the state. Joe will give an update on INHF’s work statewide. Joe is a graduate of Iowa State University in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology. He will explore the opportunities and challenges in permanently protecting large blocks of wildlife habitat in central Iowa. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation. A Zoom link will be posted two weeks in advance of the program on the Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/land-protection-changing-climate.
Thursday, March 24, 2022 EcoChats: Watersheds at the Ames Public Library on 515 Douglas Avenue beginning at 6 PM and ending at 7:30 PM. EcoChats focus is on sustainability practices in Ames and Story County. This month, join Dan Haug of Prairie Rivers of Iowa, Catherine De Long of ISU Extension and Outreach, and representatives of the City of Ames to learn about watershed management in Story County. A Zoom link will be posted on Prairie Rivers of Iowa website the day of the event. This event is presented in partnership with Ames Public Library, the City of Ames, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Monday, March 28, 2022 Presentation: Story County Watersheds, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option.
Sara Carmichael, Watershed Coordinator for Story County, will be discussing the county’s water quality efforts. She will review practices like the volunteer water quality monitoring program, new edge of field nutrient program, and stream restoration efforts. She will also highlight how the county’s different partnerships including with city, state, and federal agencies will help Story County achieve goals identified in the Countywide Watershed Assessment.
This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation.
Participate in person or online. Join by Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88561051568 or go to the Ames Public Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/story-county-watersheds for the link.
Tuesday, April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10 - Walk the Trails Join Story County Conservation's Jerry Keys and explore county parks and meet other hikers. All hikes begin at 9 am and end at 11 am. The hikes are free but do require registration by clicking the link "More Details" below for that walk. These hikes are for ages 16 and up.
Tuesday, April 12, 2022 Walk the Trails at Hertz Family Woods & Nature Preserve - More Details
Tuesday, April 19, 2022, Walk the Trails at Christiansen Forest Preserve - More Detail
Saturday, April 23, 2022 Climate Conversation With Story County Conservation at McFarland Park, 56461 180th Street, Ames. The conversation is from 1:00 PM -to 2:30 PM. Find out why it is important to start the conversation, develop stories and strategies to communicate effectively, and feel empowered by community-based solutions. This conversation is best suited for high-school age and up. This program is free but registration is required by clicking the link Register here.
Sunday April 24, 2022, Ames Reads Leopold Community Story Walk We will meet at Brookside Park at the Hickory Shelter. Brookside Park is at 1325 6th St., Ames, from 1:00 pm to 3:30.
Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the founders of wildlife conservation in America. A book on Leopold's contribution will guide the walk.This event is sponsored by several groups including the Outdoor Alliance, Story County Conservation, Iowa State University and many others.
Tuesday, April 26, 2022, Walk the Trails at Peterson Park East - More Details
Tuesday May 3, 2022, Walk the Trails at Robison Wildlife Acres - More Details
Thursday, May 5, 2022 Spring Wildflower Walk at Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot and plan to end our walk at 3:30. Registation is required and limited with Story County Conservation on their event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register. This event is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 PM at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, from May through September. These Wednesday evening paddles are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers. More information is at Skunk River Paddlers.
Tuesday, May 10, 2022, Walk the Trails at McFarland Park - More Details
Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Citizen Science: Spring Water Quality Snapshot This volunteer event is free but registration is required at Prairie Rivers of Iowa. Once you register, instructions and your testing site will be identified. Testing can take place anytime from sunrise (6 am to sunset 8:30 pm and takes one or two hours). Pick up and return your kit at 1835 Coolidge Drive, Ames, IA 50010. Contact: Watershed Educator Dan Haug [email protected], 515-232-0048.
Thursday, May 19, 2022 Evening Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month, and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves, sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bug spray are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water. These walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation and are free, but registration is required by the day prior to each walk.
Saturday May 21, 2022 Ioway Creek Trash Cleanup Prairie Rivers of Iowa is leading this service project and will post more details later on their website. Registration is required; the link will be posted on their website as the date approaches. Expect to get wet, dirty, tired and feel good about what you have helped to do.
Summer Wednesday Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames. This event is co-listed by Outdoor Alliance as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
June 16, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walks are free but require registration. Dr. Thomas Rosburg leads these informative hikes as the prairie changes each month.
Long pants, sturdy shoes, water and bug spray are recommended. All the summer prairie walks will be at Doolittle Prairie at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248 and begin at 7:00. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and do not require registration. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
July Healthy Food, Clean Water at Wheatsfield During July, Wheatsfield Change for Community is supporting the Outdoor Alliance. Wheatsfield is at 413 Northwestern Ave.Ames. After your expenditures are totaled at the cash register, the cashier will ask if you want to round-up which funds the donations. Wheatsfield’s has been supporting water quality and the supply we rely on since 2016. They go together: healthy food, clean water. Thanks, to all those shopping at Wheatsfield and rounding up. We accomplish more when we pull together.
Butterflies, Bees & Brew Friday, July 15th 5:00 – 7 pm at Alluvial Brewing: Join our partners at Prairie Rivers of Iowa as they raise funds for the work they do and that we rely upon, including water monitoring and waterway cleanups. Details are on their website, Prairie Rivers of Iowa.
July 21, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walk is free but does require registration. See June 16 above for other details.
July 29 - August 6, 2022 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and so many are moving. The Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. So stop by and see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support the community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community. The hours vary from day to day and commonly are from at least 12 noon to 6 pm. More information is at https://www.cityofames.org/living/rummage-rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability.
August 18, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walk is free but does require registration June 16 above for additional details.
Trash to Cash - Rummage Rampage Wrapup: Outdoor Alliance volunteers joined the City of Ames, Iowa State University and volunteers from 40 other organizations July 29 through August 6 at the Ames Annual Rummage Rampage. This community garage sale diverts usable items from the waste stream that people no longer want when renters move at the end of their leases. Rummage Rampage gives new life to these donated items and offers a low-cost way to furnish apartments and homes.
The Rummage Rampage also funds community organizations. All profits are distributed to the local non-profit groups based on the hours their volunteers helped unload, load, weigh, price and even deliver furniture. This year, a record setting $49,000 was raised and a record setting 144,000 pounds of waste was diverted. Thanks to everyone that made so much possible.
Adventure Race - Sunday September 11, 2022 7 AM - 11AM - The Great Ames Adventure Race is a community paddle, bike and run event initiated by local runners, bikers and paddlers at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Ames, Iowa. More details and registration can be found at Ames Great Adventure Race.
Children’s Event - Saturday Sept 17, 2022 10 AM to 1 PM - Bees & Berries
Bees and Berries is an exploration for children at the Berry Patch at 62785 280th Street, Nevada IA. This event is sponsored by our partner, Iowa Prairie Rivers with support from the Outdoor Alliance. Additional information is on their website.
Dedication - Wednesday Sept. 21, 2022 at 5:30 PM - Ada Hayden Heritage Park ADA Accessible Dock The dock is in and usable. The Outdoor Alliance partnered with local paddlers and others to raise the funds needed for the community match and make it possible for more people to have access to the lake. Thanks to the Friends of Ada Hayden, JAX, Skunk River Paddlers, the City of Ames and all the other groups who pulled together.
Women Outdoors - September 23 - 25, 2022 - Wild Women of the Woods Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women of similar interests. The Outdoor Alliance is again supporting this annual program. More details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
Harvesting Prairie Seed - Tuesday, Sept 27, 2022 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM.
Join other volunteers at the Hertz Family Woods & Nature Preserve to collect local prairie seeds. Collecting the seed is the first step that leads to prairie restorations on public lands. The Hertz Family Woods and Nature Preserve is at 25401 Club Road, Nevada, IA 50201.
This event is free and registration is not required. This event is led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information at [email protected].
Bike Ride - Tuesday October 4, 2022, 6:00 - 7:30 PM An evening bike ride at West Peterson Park is a great way to appreciate the fall. Besides your bike and helmet, bring drinking water since none is available at the park. We will meet at West Peterson Park at the east end of the parking lot at 6:00 PM. West Peterson Park is at 55310 180th, St. Ames, IA, 50010. The bike ride is free and registration is not required. This bike ride is led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information [email protected].
Hike - Tuesday October 11, 2022 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM - Fall Foliage Hike Enjoy a fall walk in the woods by the river at Soper’s Mill and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves and the season. Soper’s Mill address is 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. Turn into the park at the Soper’s Mill sign on the west side of the river and continue down the gravel lane until you get to the first parking area on your left. The walk is free and registration is not required.
Please leave your dog at home for this hike. This walk is led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information [email protected].
2021 EVENTS
2021 Winter Hikes Special Note. Given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, participants should expect to wear their masks whenever a space of six feet might not be possible on the hikes or at the cars. The hikes are open to the public, but space is limited and does require pre-registration. Register here with Story County Conservation so we can better plan a safe outing together. All hikes will begin at 1:30 from the parking area for that hike.
Cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Please leave your dog warm and at home for these winter hikes.
Unless otherwise notified; the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. All hikes would end with a "picnic" of shared food, but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it would be best bring your own treats for now. The winter hikes are led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 7, 2021 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 14, 2021 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area is on the south side of E 18 and west of the I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City and before you get to the river.
Board Meeting on Zoom – Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 5:15 pm on the second Thursday of the month. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on joining us, please contact [email protected].
Presentation on Zoom – Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7 pm Keith Abraham, Director, Ames Parks & Rec, will update us on recent, current and upcoming projects and plans. You can join us at this event by Zoom by clicking the link or with your phone: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/96557750613 Or, go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 965 5775 0613. You can also listen to the meeting on your phone by dialing: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 and entering the Meeting ID: 965 5775 0613 when prompted.
Hike - Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river. at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 28, 2021 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010.
Board Meeting on Zoom – Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 5:15 pm on the second Thursday of the month. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on joining us, please contact [email protected].
AMES READS LEOPOLD WALK & READINGS, Sunday March 21, at 1:30 pm outside at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Registration is required and limited. You can follow this link or go to Story County Conservation's event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register.
About the Walk The walk will start at the Ada Hayden stone near the shelter on the north side of the lake. The walk progresses west and then around the north lake, stopping at the stones along the way with a brief reading. In total, this will be about 1 mile walk ending with the Aldo Leopold stone near the north shelter.
Although we will be outside, everyone will need to wear a mask and social distancing will be maintained. As we walk the trail of the park, we will pause periodically at the “Faces on the Stones” for someone to read Leopold’s words. We will also briefly talk about the “Faces on the Stones” since many of these individuals were contemporaries of Leopold and made their own contributions to conservation in Iowa and the nation.
About Ames Reads Leopold Ames has celebrated Aldo Leopold’s contributions to American conservation through reading his essays as a community event, “Ames Reads Leopold” for the past 12 years and will so again this year, albeit, outside and with other precautions as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the founders of wildlife conservation in America. Although Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac was first published in 1949, his words continue to be as poignant today as then.
This event is sponsored by several groups including the Outdoor Alliance, Story County Conservation, Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and many others.
Walk the Trails in Story County Parks Tuesdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27, 2021, from 9 to 11 am. Locations vary and registation is require with Story County Conservation on their event page.
Saturday May 1, 2021, Celebration and Ribbon Cutting: Reconnecting the River Low Head Dam Project at North River Valley Park at 725 East 13th Street, Ames. Celebrate completion of this project with a ribbon cutting and open house is from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. There will be several displays from the groups that have supported this project including the Outdoor Alliance. Other plans are being finalized. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames.
Walk the Trails in Story County Parks Tuesdays, May 4, 11, and 18 from 9 to 11 am. Locations vary and registation is require with Story County Conservation on their event page.
Spring Wildflower Walk, Thursday, May 6, 2021, from 1:30 to 3:30. Registration is required and limited. We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot at Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. Registation is required with Story County Conservation on their event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register. This event is led by the Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Summer Paddling on Wednesdays Evening at Ada Hayden Heritage Park with the Skunk River Padders beginning around 5:30 when the water is warmer and safer generally before Memorial Day. Skunk River Paddlers is an informal group of mostly local paddlers.
Board Meetings The board is currently schedules a Zoom meeting on the second Thursday of the month. When the pandemic is behind us, we hope to again have in-person board meetings. Sometimes there is a last minute change, so let us know if you are interested in attending by emailing [email protected].
2021 Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers. For more information is at www.skunkriverpaddlers.org.
Sunday Morning SUP Stand Up Paddling: Enjoy morning paddling your SUP with other area paddlers beginning around 10 am starting Memorial Day. The Sunday SUP paddlers are an informal group and are listed as a community service.
June 7, Monday 5k Runs & Walks: Have some fun, get exercise and support outdoor recreation in the area. JAX Outdoor Gear is working with Home Team Wellness and Recovery to organize these runs and walks. JAX chose to support the Outdoor Alliance with the proceeds from the weekly June events. More information is at https://hometeamwr.com/events/
June 14 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 for more information.
June 21 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 for more information.
June 24, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The Doolittle Prairie walks are on the fourth Thursday evening of the month in June, July & August. Dr. Thomas Rosburg leads these informative hikes. See prairie flora changes each month. Long pants, sturdy shoes, water and bug spray are recommended. All the summer prairie walks will be at Doolittle Prairie at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248 and begin at 7:00. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and do not require registration. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
June 28 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 above for more information
July 22, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: See June 24 above for details.
August 26, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: See June 24 above for details.
July 30 - August 7, 2021 Rummage & Volunteer Opportunity: The Outdoor Alliance would like you to volunteer on our behalf, preferably, with a friend. You can volunteer for the Outdoor Alliance by emailing [email protected]: (1) Name, (2) Email, (3) Cell Phone number, (4) Zip code, (5a) Dates, and (5b) Shifts (3 consecutive hours beginning at noon until 6 pm (August 1-6).
More About the Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the waste stream and out of the landfill. The Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to the participating nonprofit groups which supports their community efforts.
The Rummage Rampage is held during the community's annual summer lease changeover. Because many leases in Ames terminate at the end of July, relocating ISU students and community members often discard items that may still be useable. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability. The event is held in Ames's Campus Intermodal Facility. The hours vary from day to day and commonly are from at least 12 noon to 6 pm. More information is at https://www.cityofames.org/living/rummage-rampage.
Rummage Rampage Volunteers: If you are interested in volunteering email [email protected] and provide: (1) Name, (2) Email, (3) Cell Phone number, (4) Zip code, (5a) Dates, and (5b) Shift, (5c) 2nd Choice Shift and (6) Depending on the job, ability to lift 10, 25 or 50 pounds.
Access Ada Hayden Project Update: Fundraising is now complete with the raffling off of the wooden canoe on Memorial Day at Ada Hayden. The community raised $35,000 towards to the expected $85,000 cost to purchase and install a dock that will assist access to the water for more people.
The Outdoor Alliance partnered with the Access Ada Hayden group which includes the Skunk River Paddlers, a local paddling group, Friends of Ada Hayden and others. As part of this community effort, the Outdoor Alliance jointly submitted a successful grant proposal to the Story County Community Foundation, raising $6,000 as well as additional grants totaling $1,000 from Walmart. The Outdoor Alliance also worked with the Access Ada Hayden’s GoFundMe effort to raise the money needed for this project.
Sunday September 12, 2021 - The Great Ames Adventure Race: The adventure race is a community paddle, bike and run event initiated by local runners, bikers and paddlers. More details and registration can be found at GAAR Adventure Race.
Friday, October 1, 2021 - Wild & Scenic Film Festival – A Celebration of Our Environment: The festival is hosted by our partner, Prairie Rivers of Iowa. The festival includes several documentary style films including the Iowa PBS documentary Iowa Land and Sky: Iowa Cities, Towns and Waterways. The film’s producer will also talk about his documentary.
The film festival will be held at the Ames City Auditorium beginning at 6:30 and ending at 10. Tickets are $20. Tickets, details about the films and other information are at Film Festival. As an added bonus, five days of online streaming the festival is included for ticket holders.
Saturday, October 2, 2021 - Volunteer River and Stream Cleanup: Prairie Rivers of Iowa and the City of Ames has scheduled a river cleanup from 9 am to 1 pm and the Outdoor Alliance working to help them to be successful.
In the water, wet, dirty, tired and knowing you lent a hand, are some of what you can expect if you volunteer by clicking here to register. Registration is required to insure enough materials for all the volunteers and is limited 40; so, if this works for you, click the link above soon.
October 8 & 9, 2021 - Wild Women of the Woods: Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women of similar interests. The program will follow COVID-19 best practices. Registration ends September 18. More details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
October 28, 2021 - Fall Foliage Hike & Cemetery Walk: The hike will begin at 1:30 followed by a short walk or drive to a local cemetery where history will be explored in a series of brief readings. We expect to wrap up our cemetery walk no later than 4:30. Participants will be limited to 15 and pre-registration is required. Details will be sent to those who registered early. To register your interest in the fall foliage hike and cemetery walk, email [email protected] with the following information: name, cell phone and how many adults and people under 18 are with you, and your mailing address.
2020 EVENTS
2020: New Year's Winter Events Start the new year with a winter hike along the South Skunk River on Thursday, January 2. This hike is the first of five Thursday afternoon winter hikes in January. Details about the hikes are below and on our website. These hikes are co-sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation.
The first of three winter presentations begin this year on Wednesday, January 22, 2019, at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library with Sam Wormley on Our Changing Climate: Science and Psychology.
Ty Smedes, photographer, will present Winter and Wildlife, Wednesday, February,19, 2020, at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library. After Ty's presentation, we will take a break and resume for the Outdoor Alliance's annual meeting.
Ames Reads Leopold is Sunday, March 8, 2020, at 2 pm at the Ames Public Library. This is a community event with many groups taking part in the readings and commentary on conservation and part of a national commemoration.
These presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library and are held at the library. Details about the hikes, presentations and other events are on the web at oasco.org and are also provided below.
We hope you can join us for some of these events and that you have a great new year. Registration is not required for any of these winter events and is open to the public.
2020 Winter Hikes Special Note All hikes will begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. These events are open to the public and do not require pre-registration.
Cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions.
These hikes are co-sponsor with Story County Conservation. Story County Conservation could decide to cancel if conditions are considered too dangerous, so you may want to check before you leave if the weather or roads are particularly nasty. Story County Conservation can be reached at [email protected].
Hike – Thursday, January 2, 2020, Anderson Access Meet at 1:30 in the parking lot located on the Northeast side of the river. The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City, 50248.
Hike – Thursday, January 9, 2020, Soper's Mill Meet at 1:30 on the Southwest side of the river in the first parking area inside the park. The address is 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010.
Board Meeting – Thursday, January 9, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Hike – Thursday, January 16, 2020, Heart of Iowa Nature Trail Meet at 1:30 in front of Cambridge’s city hall and we will drive to the trail a few minutes away. The address is 515 N. Main Avenue, Cambridge. 50046.
Presentation – Wednesday, January 22, 2020, Our Changing Climate: Science and Psychology, Sam Wormley The Climatology community now warns that we are running out of options to slow and reverse run-away-global-warming. We will explore the basic science of the earth’s energy imbalance and the psychology of denial. Resources handout will be provided.
Sam will be speaking at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
Sam Wormley is a retired associate scientist and principal investigator, CNDE/IPRT/AL at Iowa State and retired as an adjunct professor of astronomy at Marshalltown Community College after 17 years. Among many other interest and community service, Sam regularly teaches science and technology classes for OLLI at Iowa State.
Hike – Thursday, January 23, 2020, Peterson Park-West Meet at 1:30 on the west edge of the parking lot near the lake. The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010.
Iowa Prairie Network Winter Seminar Saturday, January 25, 2020 The day's events start at 9:30am and will go to 5:00 pm at Ames High School, 1921 Ames High Dr, Ames, IA 50010. Presentations, silent auction, conservation exhibits, and food for purchase or donation are part of this annual event.
The event is open to the public, does not require pre-preregistration, membership or fees. Look for more details on Iowa Prairie Network's website at www.iowaprairienetwork.org. The Outdoor Alliance is promoting this event as part of our commitment to support others that are also are enhancing outdoor recreation, education and conservation in Story County.
Hike – Thursday, January 31, 2020, McFarland Park Meet at 1:30 at the west end of the parking lot. The address is 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010.
Presentation & Afterwards Annual Meeting - February 19, 2020: Ty Smede, Photographer, Winter and Wildlife While spring is a time of renewal, summer a time of plenty, and fall a season of transition, winter is a challenging time for Midwestern wildlife. This presentation will discuss the many challenges faced by wintering wildlife and their adaptability.
Ty will be speaking at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
A lifelong interest in nature and wildlife led to Ty’s first 35 mm camera in 1980. As a hunter, he loved being in the field, and the camera allowed him to be out all year long. In 1983, the Iowa DNR published his waterfowl photos. From there, Ty's interest expanded to include more of Iowa's wildlife, prairies, scenic vistas and far beyond. Ty has taken his camera across the Midwest, west and the globe. Ty’s photographs are his way to let others enjoy, appreciate, and value our threatened natural heritage. Just perhaps, his photos will inspire us to make important choices which will save declining habitats and improve our natural world.
After Ty’s presentation, there will be brief break and light snacks. The Outdoor Alliance will then make a brief presentation as part of this year’s annual meeting which is open to the public.
Board Meeting – Thursday, February 13, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Presentation - Sunday, March 8, 2020, Ames Reads Leopold. Join us, our many partners and guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, still resonates with naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers. This event is part of a long established nationwide commemorative.
Ames Reads Leopold will be at 2 pm and wrap up at 4 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
Board Meeting – Thursday, March 12, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Looking Ahead - Other events open to the public are added as the year's plans are finalized. We are hoping to make last years river cleanup an annual event later this year and need volunteers to help us in late July, early August, to keep reusable goods out of the landfill. You efforts will also help us raises funds. Thanks for your interest.
FALL 2020 UPDATE & EVENTS - OUTDOOR ALLIANCE OF STORY COUNTY On-going events listed below address the Covid-19 health issues. Events listed below require registration and participants are limited to better keep the participants safe. Masks should be expected to be worn for your own and other participants safety as needed.
TEDESCO CORRIDOR TRAIL UPDATE The long abandoned Ames to Kelly railroad line is now a new-off-road trail linking Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor on the South side of Ames to Kelly and the R38 roadside trail to Slater. Slater is a hub of paved, off-road trails: The Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, the High Trestle Trail and the Ankeny Trail.
Story County Conservation’s new Tedesco Corridor Trail also connects public and private efforts: Story County Conservation, the Outdoor Alliance of Story County and the dedicated volunteers who have been instrumental in making this project possible.
The planned trail enhancements will allow the corridor's native plants to take root, habitat become established, and wildlife flourish. Native plantings and the wildlife will invite a pause in our busy days. Benches will echo that invitation. With these enhancements, the Ames to Kelly railroad line will again be a welcoming gateway into Ames.
The trail enhancements are expected to cost about $32,000. Thanks to the generous donors, more than $8,500 has been raised by late September. Fundraising is ongoing and is another way to support Story County Conservation's work on the Tedesco Corridor Trail.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, PRAIRIE RIVERS OF IOWA’S THE WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVALPrairie Rivers of Iowa (Prairie Rivers) is a non-profit partnering with Story County Conservation in monitoring water quality in the county. This event will support this and other ongoing projects. More information about Prairie River is on their web site at www.prrcd.org
Attendees will get access to the Livestream event on Friday, from 7:30 - 9 pm CDT. A waiting room with a countdown to the film fest will start at 7 pm for those that login early. There will also be streaming available online for 5 days after the Livestream event. A link will be sent to ticket holders nearer to the time of the Livestream event they'll use to access it. Tickets are $20 each. More information about this event is on their website: www.prrcd.org/events. Contact Prairie Rivers of Iowa if you have questions at [email protected].
SATURDAY OCTOBER 10, 2020 WILD WOMEN OF THE WOODS The Outdoor Alliance is one of many groups and businesses that help support Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods. The event is designed to give women the opportunity to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women with similar interests. This event is intended for anyone who identifies as a woman, 18 or older. This year's format will be different than in the past in an effort to ensure participant safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event has been abbreviated to one day, and unlike previous years, meals will not be provided. Details, including fees, are included in the registration packet: 2020 Wild Women of the Woods Registration Packet.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 29, 2020 FALL FOLIAGE WALK Our walk begins at 1:30 in the woods and may be a chance to enjoy the changing fall colors at Soper's Mill. We'll meet at 56364 170th Street, Ames. The hike will end with snacks of whatever the hikers bring to share and reflect the on-going pandemic by being prepackaged, or at least, in separate serving baggies. Register here with Story County Conservation; space is limited and registration is required so we can better plan a safe outing together. The hike will be canceled if the weather or other conditions are unsafe. Please leave your dog at home. This event is led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
2019 EVENTS
Jan 3, 2019 Thurs E18 Greenbelt Trail, 56342 130th St., Story City. Those that want to carpool will meet for carpooling at Ada Hayden on the north parking lot by the shelter, leaving at 1:00. Directions: Drive north from Ames on I-35 and take the E18 exit just south of Story City. Turn left (west) and cross I-35, then turn left (south) into the trailhead a few hundred feet west of Hwy 35.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 10, 2019 Thurs Reactor Woods/Peggy’s Trail, Iowa State University, Ames., 2098 Scholl Rd, Ames. Directions: From Ontario Street in west Ames, turn north on Scholl Road. Cross the railroad tracks, follow Scholl Rd to the right, and take the first right turn after Kingman Road. Go straight on this road (it becomes unpaved) until it dead-ends at a small trailhead.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 17, 2019 Thurs Dakin’s Lake, 12635 710th Ave., Zearing. Those that want to carpool will meet at the baseball parking lot at the north side of 13thStreet and the west side of the Skunk River leaving at 1:00. Directions: From Ames, drive north on I-35 to the E-18 exit (Exit 123) and turn right (east) toward Roland and Zearing. Continue on E-18 for 14 miles and drive through most of Zearing. Turn left (north) into the park.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 24, 2019 Thurs McFarland Park, 56461 180th St., Ames.Directions: from 13thStreet and west of I35, drive north on Dayton Road four miles. The road ends at 180thStreet; turn right (east) and go a bit less than one mile to the where we will meet at the west end of the parking lot.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 24, 2019 Thurs Winter Skies: Constellations, Stories and Folklore What one can see in the sky this time of year is explored by Dr. Sam Wormley who earned degrees in mathematics and electrical engineering and taught astronomy at Marshalltown Community College. Sam regularly teaches at OLLI, Iowa State University's college for seniors.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
Jan 31, 2019 Thurs Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada.Those that want to carpool can meet at Cinemark movie theater on S. Duff in the area between the movie theater and Staples, leaving at 1:00.Directions:Travel east from Ames on Highway 30; turn right (south) on S-14 just before Nevada, go on S-14 for 5.5 miles, then turn left (east) on 295th Street and go one mile to the parking lot.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Feb 7, 2019 Thurs Winter Hike Soper’s Mill- South, 56364 170th Street, Ames. Directions from highway 69 turn east towards the river at the Gilbert Casey’s. We will meet southwest of river at intersection of 170th Street and 563rd Avenue in the parking area by the river.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Feb 20 2019 Wed, The “Famous” history of the 13th Street DamThe buried alluvial aquifer that provides the community its source water for drinking has long been studied and analyzed by professors and graduate students at Iowa State University. Their research on the aquifer helped determine how water travels underground and reaches the downtown well field. Ms. Christina Murphy, Assistant Director for Ames Water and Pollution Control, will explore how the dam came about and explore it future.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
March 13 2019 Wed 7-8 Floral Jewels of the Tallgrass Prairie Prairies and other ecosystems, are recognized by their vegetation. Many types of tallgrass prairie communities can be observed in Iowa depending on moisture and fertility, how much disturbance there has been, and biogeography. The role of forbs in the many prairies of Iowa will be presented by Dr. Tom Rosburg.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
March 18-22, 2019 ISU Spring Break
April 10, 2019 Wed 6-8 Annual and Five Year Celebration at the Ames Public Library Tom Hazelton, CEO at My County Parks, will give a presentation on the economics of investing in the outdoors as part of this years' celebration. And yes, there will be cake and other hospitality. For more information contact [email protected].
April 14, 2019 Sun 2 - 4 Ames Reads Leopold, Ames Public Library, Farwell T Brown Room.Join guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, is still popular with naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers.
Ames Reads Leopold is sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library, Ames Historical Society and many other community organizations.
April 22, 2019 Mon Story County Conservation's Carroll Prairie Dedication Details are still being worked out for more information go to Story County Conservation's calendar. Carroll Prairie is a 49-acre property with remnant prairie and oxbow wetlands. The land is bisected by West Indian Creek, a watershed that Iowa Nature Heritage Foundation, Story County Conservation Board and Iowa Prairie Network have been actively protecting and restoring since 2011. Jennette Heritage Area is just downstream.
April 29, 2019 Mon 5:00 - 6:30 Evening Spring Wildflower Walk with Steve Lekwa at Hertz Woods 25401 Country Club Road Located 2 miles south of Nevada. Join us as we explore the spring ephemerals that bloom before the trees and other plants leaf out, blocking much of the sun on the ground.
May 23, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Prairie Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
June 27, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
July 25, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
August 22, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
The Iowa Prairie Network will also host its Winter Seminar in Ames this year. Presentations, a silent auction, conservation exhibits, and food for purchase or donation are part of this annual event.The event is open to the public and does not require pre-preregistration. Look for more details on the web at Iowa Prairie Network.
The first quarter of 2024 will wrap up with the annual Ames Reads Leopold where we celebrate and reflect on the land ethic of Aldo Leopold and other conservationists.
WINTER WALKS: Shake off the holidays with a walk in a park. It can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles, a walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothing is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
We’ll walk as long as the weather or other conditions are safe, and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. All walks end with a "picnic" of whatever the walkers bring. The walks are open to the public, free and do not require registration. The winter walks are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and are led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Thursday, January 4, 2024 Winter Walk: Anderson Access - The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City. We will meet at the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 11, 2024 Winter Walk: Peterson Park West - The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010. We will meet at the west edge of the parking lot near the woods. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 18, 2024 Winter Walk: Heart of Iowa Trail Cambridge - We will meet where the trail crosses S Main Avenue, Cambridge, across from the grain bins. Park on the east side of the road only. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Library Presentation: Story County’s Waterways by Dan Haug. Dan is a Water Quality Specialist at Prairie Rivers of Iowa and will speak on watersheds, water and water monitoring. The presentation is at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue in the Farrell T Brown Room.
Thursday, January 25, 2024 Winter Walk: McFarland Park - 56461 180th St., Ames. Park in the southwest area of the parking lot. All walks and departures are from the meeting area and begin at 1:30 PM.
Saturday, February 24th, 2024 Iowa Prairie Network Winter Seminar: A day long series of presentations, conservation displays and a silent auction will be held at Ames High School, 1801 Ridgewood Ave, Ames. Details will be posted as they are finalized at Iowa Prairie Network. The Outdoor Alliance is a sponsor of this event led by Iowa Prairie Network as part of our commitment to support others that are also enhancing outdoor recreation, education and conservation.
Thursday, February 29th, 2024 Library Presentation: The Birds of Ada Hayden Heritage Park by Wolfgang Oesterreich. Wolfgang’s passion is made tangible for all of us after his years of observing, photographing and recording birds and other animals. He rides his trike at Ada Hayden daily and records the wildlife he sees. The presentation is at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue in the Farrell T Brown Auditorium. After the February presentation, there will be a break, followed by the annual meeting.
Saturday, March 23, 2024 Ames Reads Leopold: Join our guests as they read selections from the land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, continues to be relevant today. Readers share essays from this book, his other books and from other conservation writers. The readings will be from 1:30-4:00 p.m. at the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor of the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Avenue.
2023 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles or a walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothes is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
Besides the winter hikes, there are also two winter presentations: Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will talk about recent, current, and upcoming projects; and, Jim Pease will take us across Iowa and down its rivers highlighting the plants and animals along the way. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library, have a Zoom option and are co-sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes Thursdays 1:30 - 3:30 in January The hikes are a great way to get out and explore public lands with others. Unless otherwise notified, the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. Please leave your dog warm at home for these winter hikes. All hikes end with a "picnic" of shared food.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Hike - Thursday, January 5, 2023 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 12, 2023 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area on the south side of E 18 and west of I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City before you get to the river from the interstate.
Presentation - Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will update us about some of the many parks, trails, and other projects recently completed as well as current and anticipated projects.
A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar at: https:// www.amespubliclibrary.org/event/winter-presentation-outdoor-alliance-story-county. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 19, 2023 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. It is the side of the river closes to Highway 69 and is the lane to the boat launch on the river.
Hike - Thursday, January 26, 2023 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010. The park remains open even though the trail around the lake is closed.
Presentation - Tuesday, January February 7, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Jim Pease will present Paddling for Plants and Critters, stories of his paddles on over 2,200 miles of Iowa rivers in the last eight years. Jim has travelled to many wild places all over the world, but Iowa rivers have always been his home. He'll share his enthusiasm for that home with us.
Jim is the most recent recipient of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundations Hagie Award for his many contributions to conservation, education, and outdoor recreation over the years. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar at: https:// www.amespubliclibrary.org/event/annual-meeting-outdoor-alliance-story-county. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. Jim’s presentation will be followed by a short break and the annual meeting.
Ames Reads Leopold - Sunday March 19, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Ames Public Library Join Neil Hamilton and other guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, is still relevance and afavorite of naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers.
Ames Reads Leopold is a community wide event will be in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor of the Ames Public Library at 515 Douglas Avenue. The readings and program are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and Ames Public Library, Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Iowa State University (ISU) Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Environment, ISU Bioethics Program, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Office of Sustainability/Live Green! Initiative, ISU Sustainable Agriculture Graduate Student Association.
2024 SPRING & EARLY SUMMER EVENTS
Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 9 AM - 2 PM, Ames Creek Cleanup: Be a volunteer and get wet, dirty and tired and feel good about it. The City of Ames, Story County Conservation, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, the Skunk River Paddlers, Outdoor Alliance as well as other groups and individuals. Registration is required so we can plan for canoes and supplies and contact you with updates on water levels and logistics. Meet at Ames City Hall (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA 50010) in the west parking lot.
Spring Wildflower Walks Enjoy a series of spring walk as we explore our local public parks and the ephemeral blooms of spring wildflowers in the woods. The walks are free and registration is not required. The walks are led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Thursday, April 25, 2024, Spring Wildflower Walk, Story City Swinging Bridge: The Swinging Bridge is accessed from Broad Street just east of the river. We will begin our walk from the gravel parking lot near the Swinging Bridge at 1:30.
Thursday, May 2, 2024 Spring Wildflower Walk, McFarland Park: McFarland is at 56461180th St, Ames IA 50010. We will begin our walk from the west edge of the gravel parking lot at 1:30.
Thursday, May 9, 2024 Spring Wildflower Walk, Robinson Wildlife Area: Robinson is at 29490 632nd Avenue, Maxwell IA 50161. We will begin our walk from the parking lot at 1:30.
Tuesday, May 21 2024, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks beginning at 7 PM: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg lead a prairie walk at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddles at Ada Hayden Heritage Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers including the Skunk River Paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue in Ames and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
2024 SUMMER EVENTS
There are lots of ways to enjoy summer outdoors. Several community events are listed below.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddles at Ada Hayden Heritage Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers including the Skunk River Paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue in Ames and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Tuesday, June 18, Doolittle Prairie Walks beginning at 7 PM: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg as he leads a prairie walk at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. The Prairie walks are open to all and are free.
Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, June 20, 5:30pm Tree Trek and Identification: Join Emily Kucera and learn how to recognize different tree species in the park by their unique features. Meet at the North West Parking Lot off Hyde Ave in Ada Hayden Park (42.069004, -93.639929). This event is hosted by the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Wednesday, June 26, 5:30 Wild Wetlands Adventure: Join Dr. Stewart and learn about the various animals that call the park home. Meet at the SW parking lot on Stonebrook Road for a wetland adventure (42°03’50.3"N 93°38'07.3"W). This event is hosted by the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
July 16, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
July 20-27, 2024 RAGBRAI: The first and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at RAGBRAI.
Friday, July 26 - Saturday August 3, 2024, Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire in Ames and many are moving. Rummage Rampage distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campustown’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop; more information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
August 20, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
September 17, Monthly Doolittle Prairie Walks at 7 PM: See June 18 above for details.
2023 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold and windy; icy and wet conditions should be expected too. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, and using ski poles or a walking stick, cleats for your
shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Wearing orange outer clothes is a good idea since some public lands are also hunting areas.
There are also two winter presentations: Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will talk about recent, current, and upcoming projects; and, Jim Pease will take us across Iowa and down its rivers highlighting the plants and animals along the way. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library, have a Zoom option and are co-
sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes Thursdays 1:30 - 3:30 in January The hikes are a great way to get out and explore public lands with others. Unless otherwise notified, the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. Please leave your dog warm at home for these winter hikes. All hikes end with a "picnic" of shared food.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Hike - Thursday, January 5, 2023 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 12, 2023 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area on the south side of E 18 and west of I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City before you get to the river from the interstate.
Presentation - Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, will update us about some of the many parks, trails, and other projects recently completed as well as current and anticipated projects. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of StoryCounty, and Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 19, 2023 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. It is the side of the river closes to Highway 69 and is the lane to the boat launch on the river.
Hike - Thursday, January 26, 2023 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010. The park remains open even though the trail around the lake is closed.
Presentation - Tuesday, January February 7, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Ames Public
Library Jim Pease will present Paddling for Plants and Critters, stories of his paddles on over 2,200 miles of Iowa rivers in the last eight years. Jim has travelled to many wild places all over the world, but Iowa rivers have always been his home. He'll share his enthusiasm for that home with us.
Jim is the most recent recipient of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundations Hagie Award for his many contributions to conservation, education, and outdoor recreation over the years. A Zoom link will be posted on the Library's Event Calendar. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. Jim’s presentation will be followed by a short break and the annual meeting.
2023 SPRING EVENTS It’s easier to get out with the longer and warmer days already. Join us for the annual woodland walk in April to see a progression of spring flowers that bloom before the trees and bushes leaf out and block sunlight from the woodland floor.
Prairie Walks A series of monthly prairie walk beginning in May is another way to enjoy a progression of prairie plants blooming as spring turns to summer. Service outings, paddling at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, bike rides and more are listed below directly in this email and on the attached pdf file.
Monday, April 10, 2023 Landscaping for Wildlife Presentation Inviting wildlife into your yard can be a rewarding experience for you and the wildlife is presented by Story County Conservation at the Neveda library on 613 K Avenue, Nevada from 6:30 to 7:30 pm; Please register by April 9 with the Nevada Public Library.
Thursday, April 27, 2023 Spring Wildflower Walk We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the the Robison Wildlife Acres parking lot at 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. We plan to end our walk at 3:30. This event is free, registration is not required and is a rain or shine event. The walk is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Saturday, April 29, 2023 Stash the Trash Stash the Trash is an annual volunteer community clean-up sponsored by the City of Ames and listed as a community service. More information will be posted at Stash the Trash.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the third Tuesday of the month prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, and begin at 7:00 The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Saturday, May 20, 2023 Mayor and City Council's Bike Ride Ames Mayor John Haila and members of the Ames City Council invite the community to participate in a family-friendly bike ride around Ames, starting and ending at City Hall.
The ride will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 20, in the west parking lot at Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. Bicyclists of all ages and experience levels are welcome to join the ride. There is no pre-registration necessary or cost to participate. Bike helmets are strongly encouraged. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Thursday, June 1, 2023 Sleepy Hollow Cleanup is a volunteer supported effort of Story County Conservation and the Skunk River Paddlers. Sleepy Hollow is 646 W Riverside Road, Ames, Iowa just across the highway on Riverside. Join paddlers and their friends remove any litter.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the third Tuesday of the month prairie walks. See Tuesday May 16 above for more details.
Sunday, Jun 25, 2023 Ames Triathlon Besides an athletic event, there are also opportunities for safety boating for the swimming event at Ada Hayden Heritage Park in Ames and other volunteer opportunities. More information is at Ames Triathlon.
Monday June 26 to Thursday June 29, 2023 North American Prairie Conference This event has field trips, symposia, keynote speakers and other events. Register for one or more days at North American Prairie Conference where you will also find more details about the conference. This event is co-hosted by our partners, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.
2023 SUMMER EVENT Nature walks, paddling, music in the park and RAGBRAI are some of the outdoor events this summer in Story County. Details about these and other events are listed below.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting a series of Thursday evening events. The time and meeting locations vary by event. Details are below by date. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 6:30pm - Make A Basket: Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE shelter to check-in.
Thursday, July 13, 2023 Meet at 8:30pm - About Bugs: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SE parking lot at Calhoun Park which is at 4300-4312 Dawes Dr, Ames.
Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 5:30pm - Prairie Walk: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 RAGBRAI in Ames: The longest and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at Ames 2023 RAGBRAI.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly evening prairie walks. See the prairie flora change each month. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm - Flying Friends: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
July 29 - August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and many are moving. Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop. More information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
Thursday August 3, 2023 at 6:30pm - Nature Photography: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 6:30pm - Faces in the Stones: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Tuesday August 15, 2023 September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at the monthly prairie walks and see the changes over the summer. See July 25, 2023 Prairie Walk above for details.
Thursday, August 17, 6:30pm - How to Find Wild Food: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 6:30pm - Pasta Night: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. A pesto pasta dish using a foraged invasive plant is the main entrée. Please bring your own plate and fork!
Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 6:30pm - Fungi: Meet at Ada Hayden’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Explore how fungi fit in the ecosystem puzzle.
Friday July 28 through Saturday August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage Volunteers This is a community garage sale that pairs unwanted items with others seeking low-cost options for furnishing a home and help keep useable items out of the landfill. Contact us by early July if you are interested in volunteering at the Rummage Rampage for The Outdoor Alliance. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames in partnership with the ISU Office of Sustainability host this event. For more information or to volunteer email .
RECAP: March 2023 Ames Reads Leopold at Ames Public Library
Ames has annually celebrated Aldo Leopold's contributions to American conservation through reading his essays in a community event since 2008. Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the early advocate of wildlife conservation and a strong advocate for a "Land Ethic” in America. Although Leopold's A Sand County Almanac was first published in 1949, his words continue to be as poignant today as then.
This year’s speakers included Erv Klaas, founder of the event; Mike Meetz, well-known local conservationist; Vivian Todd, an Ames student; Michael Cook and Gabriel Johnson, ISU Sustainable Agriculture graduate students; and Zoe Stonetree, English Fine Arts in Creative Writing & Environment graduate student. Neil Hamilton, emeritus professor of law and the former director of the Agricultural Law Center at Drake University, was the featured speaker discussing “The Land, The River and Nature.” Bruce Wight, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, was the moderator.
Partners for Ames Reads Leopold included Ames Public Library; Aldo Leopold Foundation; Creative Writing & Environment at ISU; ISU Bioethics Program; The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park; Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture; Office of Sustainability/Live Green! Initiative; Outdoor Alliance of Story County; Prairie Rivers of Iowa; Story County Conservation; The Sustainable Agriculture Student Association (SASA) at ISU; The Community Academy.
2023 SUMMER EVENT Nature walks, paddling, music in the park and RAGBRAI are some of the outdoor events this summer in Story County. Details about these and other events are listed below.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park (Ada Hayden Park) 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, and, are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service.
Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting a series of Thursday evening events. The time and meeting locations vary by event. Details are below by date. All ages are welcome to these free events. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Sunday Summer Evening Music at Roosevelt Park, Ames: The music starts at 7pm and goes to 8:30. Roosevelt Park is at 9th Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Ames. This event is sponsored by Friends of Roosevelt Park. The music is free, family-friendly and outdoors. More information, including the band that night, is at Summer Sundays.
Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 6:30pm - Make A Basket: Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE shelter to check-in.
Thursday, July 13, 2023 Meet at 8:30pm - About Bugs: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SE parking lot at Calhoun Park which is at 4300-4312 Dawes Dr, Ames.
Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 5:30pm - Prairie Walk: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s main parking lot is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 RAGBRAI in Ames: The longest and largest statewide bike ride in the country. More information is at Ames 2023 RAGBRAI.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly evening prairie walks. See the prairie flora change each month. Long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes are recommend. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water.
Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm - Flying Friends: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
July 29 - August 5, 2023 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and many are moving. Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. Stop by to see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community.
The hours vary from day to day when you can drop off donated goods and shop. More information is at Rummage Rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability and listed here as a community service.
Thursday August 3, 2023 at 6:30pm - Nature Photography: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in.
Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 6:30pm - Faces in the Stones: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Tuesday August 15, 2023 September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at the monthly prairie walks and see the changes over the summer. See July 25, 2023 Prairie Walk above for details.
Thursday, August 17, 6:30pm - How to Find Wild Food: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames.
Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 6:30pm - Pasta Night: Ada Hayden Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. A pesto pasta dish using a foraged invasive plant is the main entrée. Please bring your own plate and fork!
Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 6:30pm - Fungi: Meet at Ada Hayden’s SW parking lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Explore how fungi fit in the ecosystem puzzle.
All September - Making Change with Your Change at JAX
JAX been the go-to place for outdoor gear, long supported outdoor recreation, education and conservation and is doing so again. The Deppe Family Conservation Area by Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) from Bob and Carol Deppe, who wanted the land protected. The change round up at JAX will help raise funds for Story County Conservation to acquire this land for public use.
The Deppe acquisition will add 127 acres of upland wildlife habitat adjacent to McFarland Park’s 238 acres of existing habitat. The Deppe acquisition includes timber, a small stream, and more than 90 acres of open field which can be restored to prairie. Plans include trail links to McFarland Park.
The Outdoor Alliance has raised funds for several other land acquisitions in Story County as well as and supporting other projects and events acquisitions have supported in Story County since 2013 thanks to donors like you.
Thursday, September 7, 2023, 6:30pm - A Feathery Feature: Meet at Ada Hayden Park’s lot at 1905 Harrison Rd, Ames. Bring binoculars if you have some. Thursday Summer Evenings at Ada Hayden Park, Ames: The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the City of Ames are hosting this event. Most events will last an hour but stay as long as you want. Bring water and dress for the weather.
Saturday, September 9, 2023 Monarch Magic 10am - 1pm: Experience the magic of tagging a monarch butterfly to help scientists track their migration. Participate in other fun activities to learn more about this butterfly and other pollinators. This is a free, family-friendly event led by Prairie Rivers of Iowa and the Outdoor Alliance. Ada Hayden Heritage Park is at 5205 Grand Ave, Ames. Meet at the NE parking lot shelter to check-in. More information is at Prairie Rivers of Iowa
Friday & Saturday, Sept 15 and 16, 2023, Wild Women of the Woods: Story County Conservation’s Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills and network with women with similar interests. The Outdoor Alliance is again supporting this annual program. Details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
Sunday, September 17, 2023 - The Great Ames Adventure Race (GAAR): hosted by the Ames Jaycees has been cancelled.
Tuesday September 19, 2023 Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on the last of this year’s monthly prairie walks. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and begin at 7:00. More information is available at Story County Conservation County Conservation.
Collecting Prairie Seed - Saturday, Sept 23, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Join other volunteers to collect local prairie seeds. Collecting local seed is the first step to prairie restorations on public lands.This event is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteer, Steve Lekwa. This event is free and registration is not required.
Gear: Best to dress for time in a prairie with long sleeve shirt and pants, socks and shoes as well as gloves to protect yourself from scratches and any hungry insects. Tucking your long pants into your socks and spraying with Deet is more than a good idea to consider. Directions: Hickory Grove is at 67464 250th Street, Colo IA 50056. We will meet at the Meadowlark Hill shelter. Turning into the park from 250th Street, go past the campground and the beach area until you see a sign for the Meadowlark Hill Shelter.
Saturday, September 30, Ames EcoFair 2023 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM The Ecofair is hosted by the City of Ames in the parking lot west of City Hall at 515 Clark Ave, Ames, as well as on Fifth Street (on the south side of City Hall). Learn more about City rebates, programs, and services that encourage conservation, as well as the community groups working with the city.
2023 FALL EVENTS Fall kicks off with another large full moon, cooler morning and nights and shorter days. Fall also ushers in a series of three Thursday afternoon fall foliage walks sponsors by the Outdoor Alliance.
Three other events from Story County Conservation and other groups are also listed as a community service including a night hike, Dr. Neil Hamilton’s talk about his new book and a silent auction, as well as a nature summit with its own speakers and workshops.
Thursday Afternoon Fall Foliage Walks: Enjoy a series of three fall walks as we explore our local public parks. These walks are free and do not require registration. All walks begin at 1:30 and wrap up by 3:30. We end our walks sharing a light snack brought by the hikers. The fall walks are led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Thursday, October 12, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at the South Skunk River Trail at Anderson’s Access at 56743 150th Street, Story City. We will begin our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river.
Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 6:45 p.m: Dr. Neil Hamilton’s Presentation and Silent Auction: Central Iowa Sierra Club will be holding this event at the Northwest Community Center at 5110 Franklin Avenue, Des Moines.
Dr Neil Hamilton, author, educator, environmentalist and a farmer, has had many roles in government and on non-profit boards. Dr. Neil Hamilton, emeritus professor of law and former director of the Agricultural Law Center at Drake will speak about his new book, The River Knows: How Water and Land Can Shape our Future.
Please note that payment for auction items will be by check or cash only. Proceeds to benefit the Iowa Chapter of Sierra Club for their environmental work. More information is at https://www.sierraclub.org/iowa/central-iowa and is listed here as a community service.
Thursday, October 19, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at Robison Wildlife Area at 29490 632nd Avenue, Maxwell IA 50161. We will begin our walk from the parking lot at 1:30.
Thursday October 26, 2023 Fall Foliage Walk: Meet at West Peterson Park at 55310 180th St., Ames IA 50010. We will gather at the east end of the park past the boat ramp near the tree line and begin our walk at 1:30.
Friday, Oct. 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m: Creatures of the Night at McFarland Park: Join Story County Conservation staff for a night hike through the woods where you will learn about Iowa animal tracks and creatures of the night. Each group will get a blacklight flashlight to use to find glowing animal tracks and will navigate the woods by full moon light. Afterwards, relax beside a campfire and enjoy the full moon. Register online by October 25 with Story County Conservation. McFarland Park is at 56461 180th St, Ames.
Thursday & Friday, November 16 – 17, 2023: Nature Summit at Drake University: Nature advocates and organizations share a common goal: to enhance, protect and preserve nature's diversity. The summit will engage, energize, and empower Iowans whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting to explore the great outdoors that we depend on and that now depends on us.
Connecting with like-minded individuals is both encouraging and an informal learning opportunity. You will also learn from experts in the field and discover new ways to make a positive impact on the environment. With a variety of workshops, presentations, and activities, there’s something for everyone at this event that will leave you inspired and empowered. Drake University is at 2507 University Ave, Des Moines. information is at https://www.iowanature.org/ and is listed as a community service.
2022 WINTER EVENTS Taking a hike is a great way to start the new year, shake off cabin fever and get exercise. Yes, it can be cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions.
There are also two winter presentations: Story County’s Watershed; and, Land Protection in a Changing Environment. Both presentations are at the Ames Public Library and have a Zoom option. Both presentations are also co-sponsored by the Ames Public Library and Story County Conservation.
Winter Hikes All the hikes require registration. Unless otherwise notified; the hikes go on as long as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. Please leave your dog warm and at home for these winter hikes.
All hikes would normally end with a "picnic" of shared food, but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it would be best to bring your own treats or store bought individually packaged treats.
The winter hikes are co-sponsored with Story County Conservation and led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer.
Thursday, January 6, 2022 Winter Hike Anderson Access The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City. Registration is required and limited. We will meet at the parking lot on the Northeast side of the river. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 Winter Hike Peterson Park - West, Story County The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010. Registration is required and limited. We will meet at the west edge of the parking lot near the lake. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 20, 2022 Winter Hike Heart of Iowa Trail, Cambridge. Registration is required and limited. We will meet where the trail crosses S Main Avenue, Cambridge, across from the grain bins. Park on the east side of the road only. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 27, 2022 Winter Hike McFarland Park, 56461 180th St., Ames. Registration is required and limited. Park in the southwest area of the parking lot. All hikes and departures are from the meeting areas and begin at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, Jan 27, 2022 Presentation: Story County Watersheds, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option. Sara Carmichael, Watershed Coordinator for Story County, will be discussing the county’s water quality efforts. She will review practices like the volunteer water quality monitoring program, new edge of field nutrient program, and stream restoration efforts. She will also highlight how the county’s different partnerships including with city, state, and federal agencies will help Story County achieve goals identified in the Countywide Watershed Assessment. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation. A Zoom link will be posted two weeks in advance of the program on the Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/story-county-watersheds.
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 Presentation & Annual Meeting: Land Protection in a Changing Climate, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option. Joe McGovern is the President of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. is a nonprofit conservation organization protecting and restoring Iowa’s land, water and wildlife across the state. Joe will give an update on INHF’s work statewide. Joe is a graduate of Iowa State University in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology. He will explore the opportunities and challenges in permanently protecting large blocks of wildlife habitat in central Iowa. This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation. A Zoom link will be posted two weeks in advance of the program on the Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/land-protection-changing-climate.
Thursday, March 24, 2022 EcoChats: Watersheds at the Ames Public Library on 515 Douglas Avenue beginning at 6 PM and ending at 7:30 PM. EcoChats focus is on sustainability practices in Ames and Story County. This month, join Dan Haug of Prairie Rivers of Iowa, Catherine De Long of ISU Extension and Outreach, and representatives of the City of Ames to learn about watershed management in Story County. A Zoom link will be posted on Prairie Rivers of Iowa website the day of the event. This event is presented in partnership with Ames Public Library, the City of Ames, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Monday, March 28, 2022 Presentation: Story County Watersheds, 7:00 pm at Ames Public Library and with a Zoom option.
Sara Carmichael, Watershed Coordinator for Story County, will be discussing the county’s water quality efforts. She will review practices like the volunteer water quality monitoring program, new edge of field nutrient program, and stream restoration efforts. She will also highlight how the county’s different partnerships including with city, state, and federal agencies will help Story County achieve goals identified in the Countywide Watershed Assessment.
This presentation is sponsored by the Ames Public Library, Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and Story County Conservation.
Participate in person or online. Join by Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88561051568 or go to the Ames Public Library's Event Calendar at https://www.amespubliclibrary.org/events/story-county-watersheds for the link.
Tuesday, April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10 - Walk the Trails Join Story County Conservation's Jerry Keys and explore county parks and meet other hikers. All hikes begin at 9 am and end at 11 am. The hikes are free but do require registration by clicking the link "More Details" below for that walk. These hikes are for ages 16 and up.
Tuesday, April 12, 2022 Walk the Trails at Hertz Family Woods & Nature Preserve - More Details
Tuesday, April 19, 2022, Walk the Trails at Christiansen Forest Preserve - More Detail
Saturday, April 23, 2022 Climate Conversation With Story County Conservation at McFarland Park, 56461 180th Street, Ames. The conversation is from 1:00 PM -to 2:30 PM. Find out why it is important to start the conversation, develop stories and strategies to communicate effectively, and feel empowered by community-based solutions. This conversation is best suited for high-school age and up. This program is free but registration is required by clicking the link Register here.
Sunday April 24, 2022, Ames Reads Leopold Community Story Walk We will meet at Brookside Park at the Hickory Shelter. Brookside Park is at 1325 6th St., Ames, from 1:00 pm to 3:30.
Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the founders of wildlife conservation in America. A book on Leopold's contribution will guide the walk.This event is sponsored by several groups including the Outdoor Alliance, Story County Conservation, Iowa State University and many others.
Tuesday, April 26, 2022, Walk the Trails at Peterson Park East - More Details
Tuesday May 3, 2022, Walk the Trails at Robison Wildlife Acres - More Details
Thursday, May 5, 2022 Spring Wildflower Walk at Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot and plan to end our walk at 3:30. Registation is required and limited with Story County Conservation on their event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register. This event is led by Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 PM at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, from May through September. These Wednesday evening paddles are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers. More information is at Skunk River Paddlers.
Tuesday, May 10, 2022, Walk the Trails at McFarland Park - More Details
Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Citizen Science: Spring Water Quality Snapshot This volunteer event is free but registration is required at Prairie Rivers of Iowa. Once you register, instructions and your testing site will be identified. Testing can take place anytime from sunrise (6 am to sunset 8:30 pm and takes one or two hours). Pick up and return your kit at 1835 Coolidge Drive, Ames, IA 50010. Contact: Watershed Educator Dan Haug [email protected], 515-232-0048.
Thursday, May 19, 2022 Evening Prairie Walks Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg on monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare and common prairie flora that change each month, and learn about the Central Iowa prairies. Long pants, long sleeves, sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bug spray are recommended. You may also want sunscreen, bug spray, hat and water. These walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation and are free, but registration is required by the day prior to each walk.
Saturday May 21, 2022 Ioway Creek Trash Cleanup Prairie Rivers of Iowa is leading this service project and will post more details later on their website. Registration is required; the link will be posted on their website as the date approaches. Expect to get wet, dirty, tired and feel good about what you have helped to do.
Summer Wednesday Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames. This event is co-listed by Outdoor Alliance as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers.
June 16, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walks are free but require registration. Dr. Thomas Rosburg leads these informative hikes as the prairie changes each month.
Long pants, sturdy shoes, water and bug spray are recommended. All the summer prairie walks will be at Doolittle Prairie at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248 and begin at 7:00. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and do not require registration. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
July Healthy Food, Clean Water at Wheatsfield During July, Wheatsfield Change for Community is supporting the Outdoor Alliance. Wheatsfield is at 413 Northwestern Ave.Ames. After your expenditures are totaled at the cash register, the cashier will ask if you want to round-up which funds the donations. Wheatsfield’s has been supporting water quality and the supply we rely on since 2016. They go together: healthy food, clean water. Thanks, to all those shopping at Wheatsfield and rounding up. We accomplish more when we pull together.
Butterflies, Bees & Brew Friday, July 15th 5:00 – 7 pm at Alluvial Brewing: Join our partners at Prairie Rivers of Iowa as they raise funds for the work they do and that we rely upon, including water monitoring and waterway cleanups. Details are on their website, Prairie Rivers of Iowa.
July 21, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walk is free but does require registration. See June 16 above for other details.
July 29 - August 6, 2022 Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the landfill when leases expire and so many are moving. The Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to participating nonprofit groups like the Outdoor Alliance whose volunteers help staff the event and raise funds which supports their community efforts.
The event is held in Campus Town’s Intermodal Facility at 129 Hayward Avenue, Ames. So stop by and see if there is something you can rescue from the landfill and support the community nonprofits like the Outdoor Alliance that, in turn, support our community. The hours vary from day to day and commonly are from at least 12 noon to 6 pm. More information is at https://www.cityofames.org/living/rummage-rampage. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability.
August 18, 2022 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The guided walk is free but does require registration June 16 above for additional details.
Trash to Cash - Rummage Rampage Wrapup: Outdoor Alliance volunteers joined the City of Ames, Iowa State University and volunteers from 40 other organizations July 29 through August 6 at the Ames Annual Rummage Rampage. This community garage sale diverts usable items from the waste stream that people no longer want when renters move at the end of their leases. Rummage Rampage gives new life to these donated items and offers a low-cost way to furnish apartments and homes.
The Rummage Rampage also funds community organizations. All profits are distributed to the local non-profit groups based on the hours their volunteers helped unload, load, weigh, price and even deliver furniture. This year, a record setting $49,000 was raised and a record setting 144,000 pounds of waste was diverted. Thanks to everyone that made so much possible.
Adventure Race - Sunday September 11, 2022 7 AM - 11AM - The Great Ames Adventure Race is a community paddle, bike and run event initiated by local runners, bikers and paddlers at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Ames, Iowa. More details and registration can be found at Ames Great Adventure Race.
Children’s Event - Saturday Sept 17, 2022 10 AM to 1 PM - Bees & Berries
Bees and Berries is an exploration for children at the Berry Patch at 62785 280th Street, Nevada IA. This event is sponsored by our partner, Iowa Prairie Rivers with support from the Outdoor Alliance. Additional information is on their website.
Dedication - Wednesday Sept. 21, 2022 at 5:30 PM - Ada Hayden Heritage Park ADA Accessible Dock The dock is in and usable. The Outdoor Alliance partnered with local paddlers and others to raise the funds needed for the community match and make it possible for more people to have access to the lake. Thanks to the Friends of Ada Hayden, JAX, Skunk River Paddlers, the City of Ames and all the other groups who pulled together.
Women Outdoors - September 23 - 25, 2022 - Wild Women of the Woods Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women of similar interests. The Outdoor Alliance is again supporting this annual program. More details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
Harvesting Prairie Seed - Tuesday, Sept 27, 2022 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM.
Join other volunteers at the Hertz Family Woods & Nature Preserve to collect local prairie seeds. Collecting the seed is the first step that leads to prairie restorations on public lands. The Hertz Family Woods and Nature Preserve is at 25401 Club Road, Nevada, IA 50201.
This event is free and registration is not required. This event is led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information at [email protected].
Bike Ride - Tuesday October 4, 2022, 6:00 - 7:30 PM An evening bike ride at West Peterson Park is a great way to appreciate the fall. Besides your bike and helmet, bring drinking water since none is available at the park. We will meet at West Peterson Park at the east end of the parking lot at 6:00 PM. West Peterson Park is at 55310 180th, St. Ames, IA, 50010. The bike ride is free and registration is not required. This bike ride is led by Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information [email protected].
Hike - Tuesday October 11, 2022 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM - Fall Foliage Hike Enjoy a fall walk in the woods by the river at Soper’s Mill and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves and the season. Soper’s Mill address is 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010. Turn into the park at the Soper’s Mill sign on the west side of the river and continue down the gravel lane until you get to the first parking area on your left. The walk is free and registration is not required.
Please leave your dog at home for this hike. This walk is led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and cosponsored by Story County Conservation. Contact Story County Conservation for more information [email protected].
2021 EVENTS
2021 Winter Hikes Special Note. Given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, participants should expect to wear their masks whenever a space of six feet might not be possible on the hikes or at the cars. The hikes are open to the public, but space is limited and does require pre-registration. Register here with Story County Conservation so we can better plan a safe outing together. All hikes will begin at 1:30 from the parking area for that hike.
Cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions. Please leave your dog warm and at home for these winter hikes.
Unless otherwise notified; the hikes go on as long as the weather or other conditions are safe and the roads are open. We may however, wrap things up earlier than 3:30 PM under harsh conditions. All hikes would end with a "picnic" of shared food, but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it would be best bring your own treats for now. The winter hikes are led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and are cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Hike - Thursday, January 7, 2021 at Ronald "Dick" Jordan Family Wildlife Area. We will meet in the parking area on the NE side of the South Skunk River bridge at 56091 265th Street, Ames IA 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 14, 2021 at E18 Greenbelt Trail. We will meet in the parking area is on the south side of E 18 and west of the I 35 at 56342 130th St., Story City and before you get to the river.
Board Meeting on Zoom – Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 5:15 pm on the second Thursday of the month. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on joining us, please contact [email protected].
Presentation on Zoom – Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7 pm Keith Abraham, Director, Ames Parks & Rec, will update us on recent, current and upcoming projects and plans. You can join us at this event by Zoom by clicking the link or with your phone: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/96557750613 Or, go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 965 5775 0613. You can also listen to the meeting on your phone by dialing: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 and entering the Meeting ID: 965 5775 0613 when prompted.
Hike - Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Soper's Mill. We will meet on the SW side of the river. at 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010.
Hike - Thursday, January 28, 2021 at McFarland Park. We will meet at the west end of the parking lot at 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010.
Board Meeting on Zoom – Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 5:15 pm on the second Thursday of the month. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on joining us, please contact [email protected].
AMES READS LEOPOLD WALK & READINGS, Sunday March 21, at 1:30 pm outside at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Registration is required and limited. You can follow this link or go to Story County Conservation's event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register.
About the Walk The walk will start at the Ada Hayden stone near the shelter on the north side of the lake. The walk progresses west and then around the north lake, stopping at the stones along the way with a brief reading. In total, this will be about 1 mile walk ending with the Aldo Leopold stone near the north shelter.
Although we will be outside, everyone will need to wear a mask and social distancing will be maintained. As we walk the trail of the park, we will pause periodically at the “Faces on the Stones” for someone to read Leopold’s words. We will also briefly talk about the “Faces on the Stones” since many of these individuals were contemporaries of Leopold and made their own contributions to conservation in Iowa and the nation.
About Ames Reads Leopold Ames has celebrated Aldo Leopold’s contributions to American conservation through reading his essays as a community event, “Ames Reads Leopold” for the past 12 years and will so again this year, albeit, outside and with other precautions as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Aldo Leopold is widely acknowledged as one of the founders of wildlife conservation in America. Although Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac was first published in 1949, his words continue to be as poignant today as then.
This event is sponsored by several groups including the Outdoor Alliance, Story County Conservation, Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park and many others.
Walk the Trails in Story County Parks Tuesdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27, 2021, from 9 to 11 am. Locations vary and registation is require with Story County Conservation on their event page.
Saturday May 1, 2021, Celebration and Ribbon Cutting: Reconnecting the River Low Head Dam Project at North River Valley Park at 725 East 13th Street, Ames. Celebrate completion of this project with a ribbon cutting and open house is from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. There will be several displays from the groups that have supported this project including the Outdoor Alliance. Other plans are being finalized. This event is sponsored by the City of Ames.
Walk the Trails in Story County Parks Tuesdays, May 4, 11, and 18 from 9 to 11 am. Locations vary and registation is require with Story County Conservation on their event page.
Spring Wildflower Walk, Thursday, May 6, 2021, from 1:30 to 3:30. Registration is required and limited. We’ll start our walk at 1:30 from the parking lot at Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada. Registation is required with Story County Conservation on their event page. Choose the month and date of the event and click the link on their calendar to register. This event is led by the Outdoor Alliance volunteers and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
Summer Paddling on Wednesdays Evening at Ada Hayden Heritage Park with the Skunk River Padders beginning around 5:30 when the water is warmer and safer generally before Memorial Day. Skunk River Paddlers is an informal group of mostly local paddlers.
Board Meetings The board is currently schedules a Zoom meeting on the second Thursday of the month. When the pandemic is behind us, we hope to again have in-person board meetings. Sometimes there is a last minute change, so let us know if you are interested in attending by emailing [email protected].
2021 Wednesday Summer Evening Paddle at the Park: Enjoy an evening paddling your canoe, kayak or stand up paddling (SUP) with other area paddlers beginning around 6:30 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Wednesday evening paddles are at Ada Hayden Heritage Park at 5205 Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 and are listed by the Outdoor Alliance as a community service and as a service for our partners at the Skunk River Paddlers. For more information is at www.skunkriverpaddlers.org.
Sunday Morning SUP Stand Up Paddling: Enjoy morning paddling your SUP with other area paddlers beginning around 10 am starting Memorial Day. The Sunday SUP paddlers are an informal group and are listed as a community service.
June 7, Monday 5k Runs & Walks: Have some fun, get exercise and support outdoor recreation in the area. JAX Outdoor Gear is working with Home Team Wellness and Recovery to organize these runs and walks. JAX chose to support the Outdoor Alliance with the proceeds from the weekly June events. More information is at https://hometeamwr.com/events/
June 14 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 for more information.
June 21 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 for more information.
June 24, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: The Doolittle Prairie walks are on the fourth Thursday evening of the month in June, July & August. Dr. Thomas Rosburg leads these informative hikes. See prairie flora changes each month. Long pants, sturdy shoes, water and bug spray are recommended. All the summer prairie walks will be at Doolittle Prairie at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248 and begin at 7:00. The summer prairie walks are sponsored by Story County Conservation, Iowa Native Plant Society and are co-listed by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County. The walks are free and do not require registration. More information is available at Story County Conservation.
June 28 Monday 5k Runs & Walks: See June 7 above for more information
July 22, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: See June 24 above for details.
August 26, 2021 Thursday Evening Doolittle Prairie Walks: See June 24 above for details.
July 30 - August 7, 2021 Rummage & Volunteer Opportunity: The Outdoor Alliance would like you to volunteer on our behalf, preferably, with a friend. You can volunteer for the Outdoor Alliance by emailing [email protected]: (1) Name, (2) Email, (3) Cell Phone number, (4) Zip code, (5a) Dates, and (5b) Shifts (3 consecutive hours beginning at noon until 6 pm (August 1-6).
More About the Rummage Rampage: The Rummage Rampage is a community garage sale of donated goods designed to keep reusable items out of the waste stream and out of the landfill. The Rummage Rampage also distributes the proceeds to the participating nonprofit groups which supports their community efforts.
The Rummage Rampage is held during the community's annual summer lease changeover. Because many leases in Ames terminate at the end of July, relocating ISU students and community members often discard items that may still be useable. Rummage Rampage is a partnership with the City of Ames and ISU Office of Sustainability. The event is held in Ames's Campus Intermodal Facility. The hours vary from day to day and commonly are from at least 12 noon to 6 pm. More information is at https://www.cityofames.org/living/rummage-rampage.
Rummage Rampage Volunteers: If you are interested in volunteering email [email protected] and provide: (1) Name, (2) Email, (3) Cell Phone number, (4) Zip code, (5a) Dates, and (5b) Shift, (5c) 2nd Choice Shift and (6) Depending on the job, ability to lift 10, 25 or 50 pounds.
Access Ada Hayden Project Update: Fundraising is now complete with the raffling off of the wooden canoe on Memorial Day at Ada Hayden. The community raised $35,000 towards to the expected $85,000 cost to purchase and install a dock that will assist access to the water for more people.
The Outdoor Alliance partnered with the Access Ada Hayden group which includes the Skunk River Paddlers, a local paddling group, Friends of Ada Hayden and others. As part of this community effort, the Outdoor Alliance jointly submitted a successful grant proposal to the Story County Community Foundation, raising $6,000 as well as additional grants totaling $1,000 from Walmart. The Outdoor Alliance also worked with the Access Ada Hayden’s GoFundMe effort to raise the money needed for this project.
Sunday September 12, 2021 - The Great Ames Adventure Race: The adventure race is a community paddle, bike and run event initiated by local runners, bikers and paddlers. More details and registration can be found at GAAR Adventure Race.
Friday, October 1, 2021 - Wild & Scenic Film Festival – A Celebration of Our Environment: The festival is hosted by our partner, Prairie Rivers of Iowa. The festival includes several documentary style films including the Iowa PBS documentary Iowa Land and Sky: Iowa Cities, Towns and Waterways. The film’s producer will also talk about his documentary.
The film festival will be held at the Ames City Auditorium beginning at 6:30 and ending at 10. Tickets are $20. Tickets, details about the films and other information are at Film Festival. As an added bonus, five days of online streaming the festival is included for ticket holders.
Saturday, October 2, 2021 - Volunteer River and Stream Cleanup: Prairie Rivers of Iowa and the City of Ames has scheduled a river cleanup from 9 am to 1 pm and the Outdoor Alliance working to help them to be successful.
In the water, wet, dirty, tired and knowing you lent a hand, are some of what you can expect if you volunteer by clicking here to register. Registration is required to insure enough materials for all the volunteers and is limited 40; so, if this works for you, click the link above soon.
October 8 & 9, 2021 - Wild Women of the Woods: Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods program is designed for women to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women of similar interests. The program will follow COVID-19 best practices. Registration ends September 18. More details including registration are on Story County Conservation's Event Calendar on their website.
October 28, 2021 - Fall Foliage Hike & Cemetery Walk: The hike will begin at 1:30 followed by a short walk or drive to a local cemetery where history will be explored in a series of brief readings. We expect to wrap up our cemetery walk no later than 4:30. Participants will be limited to 15 and pre-registration is required. Details will be sent to those who registered early. To register your interest in the fall foliage hike and cemetery walk, email [email protected] with the following information: name, cell phone and how many adults and people under 18 are with you, and your mailing address.
2020 EVENTS
2020: New Year's Winter Events Start the new year with a winter hike along the South Skunk River on Thursday, January 2. This hike is the first of five Thursday afternoon winter hikes in January. Details about the hikes are below and on our website. These hikes are co-sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County and Story County Conservation.
The first of three winter presentations begin this year on Wednesday, January 22, 2019, at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library with Sam Wormley on Our Changing Climate: Science and Psychology.
Ty Smedes, photographer, will present Winter and Wildlife, Wednesday, February,19, 2020, at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library. After Ty's presentation, we will take a break and resume for the Outdoor Alliance's annual meeting.
Ames Reads Leopold is Sunday, March 8, 2020, at 2 pm at the Ames Public Library. This is a community event with many groups taking part in the readings and commentary on conservation and part of a national commemoration.
These presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library and are held at the library. Details about the hikes, presentations and other events are on the web at oasco.org and are also provided below.
We hope you can join us for some of these events and that you have a great new year. Registration is not required for any of these winter events and is open to the public.
2020 Winter Hikes Special Note All hikes will begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. These events are open to the public and do not require pre-registration.
Cold, windy and sometimes wet or icy conditions should be expected. Layering with wicking clothes, wearing a wind and water resistant jacket, gloves and hat, ski poles or walking stick, cleats for your shoes or even snowshoes can be useful depending on conditions.
These hikes are co-sponsor with Story County Conservation. Story County Conservation could decide to cancel if conditions are considered too dangerous, so you may want to check before you leave if the weather or roads are particularly nasty. Story County Conservation can be reached at [email protected].
Hike – Thursday, January 2, 2020, Anderson Access Meet at 1:30 in the parking lot located on the Northeast side of the river. The address is 56743 150th Street, Story City, 50248.
Hike – Thursday, January 9, 2020, Soper's Mill Meet at 1:30 on the Southwest side of the river in the first parking area inside the park. The address is 56364 170th Street, Ames, 50010.
Board Meeting – Thursday, January 9, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Hike – Thursday, January 16, 2020, Heart of Iowa Nature Trail Meet at 1:30 in front of Cambridge’s city hall and we will drive to the trail a few minutes away. The address is 515 N. Main Avenue, Cambridge. 50046.
Presentation – Wednesday, January 22, 2020, Our Changing Climate: Science and Psychology, Sam Wormley The Climatology community now warns that we are running out of options to slow and reverse run-away-global-warming. We will explore the basic science of the earth’s energy imbalance and the psychology of denial. Resources handout will be provided.
Sam will be speaking at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
Sam Wormley is a retired associate scientist and principal investigator, CNDE/IPRT/AL at Iowa State and retired as an adjunct professor of astronomy at Marshalltown Community College after 17 years. Among many other interest and community service, Sam regularly teaches science and technology classes for OLLI at Iowa State.
Hike – Thursday, January 23, 2020, Peterson Park-West Meet at 1:30 on the west edge of the parking lot near the lake. The address is 55310 180th Street, Ames, 50010.
Iowa Prairie Network Winter Seminar Saturday, January 25, 2020 The day's events start at 9:30am and will go to 5:00 pm at Ames High School, 1921 Ames High Dr, Ames, IA 50010. Presentations, silent auction, conservation exhibits, and food for purchase or donation are part of this annual event.
The event is open to the public, does not require pre-preregistration, membership or fees. Look for more details on Iowa Prairie Network's website at www.iowaprairienetwork.org. The Outdoor Alliance is promoting this event as part of our commitment to support others that are also are enhancing outdoor recreation, education and conservation in Story County.
Hike – Thursday, January 31, 2020, McFarland Park Meet at 1:30 at the west end of the parking lot. The address is 56461 180th St., Ames, 50010.
Presentation & Afterwards Annual Meeting - February 19, 2020: Ty Smede, Photographer, Winter and Wildlife While spring is a time of renewal, summer a time of plenty, and fall a season of transition, winter is a challenging time for Midwestern wildlife. This presentation will discuss the many challenges faced by wintering wildlife and their adaptability.
Ty will be speaking at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
A lifelong interest in nature and wildlife led to Ty’s first 35 mm camera in 1980. As a hunter, he loved being in the field, and the camera allowed him to be out all year long. In 1983, the Iowa DNR published his waterfowl photos. From there, Ty's interest expanded to include more of Iowa's wildlife, prairies, scenic vistas and far beyond. Ty has taken his camera across the Midwest, west and the globe. Ty’s photographs are his way to let others enjoy, appreciate, and value our threatened natural heritage. Just perhaps, his photos will inspire us to make important choices which will save declining habitats and improve our natural world.
After Ty’s presentation, there will be brief break and light snacks. The Outdoor Alliance will then make a brief presentation as part of this year’s annual meeting which is open to the public.
Board Meeting – Thursday, February 13, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Presentation - Sunday, March 8, 2020, Ames Reads Leopold. Join us, our many partners and guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, still resonates with naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers. This event is part of a long established nationwide commemorative.
Ames Reads Leopold will be at 2 pm and wrap up at 4 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor. The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation and the Ames Public Library. The address is 515 Douglas Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
Board Meeting – Thursday, March 12, 2020 Meetings are at 5:15 on the second Thursday of the month and are held in the Ames Public Library in the meeting rooms upstairs. Meetings are open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please contact [email protected] to be sure there were no last minute changes.
Looking Ahead - Other events open to the public are added as the year's plans are finalized. We are hoping to make last years river cleanup an annual event later this year and need volunteers to help us in late July, early August, to keep reusable goods out of the landfill. You efforts will also help us raises funds. Thanks for your interest.
FALL 2020 UPDATE & EVENTS - OUTDOOR ALLIANCE OF STORY COUNTY On-going events listed below address the Covid-19 health issues. Events listed below require registration and participants are limited to better keep the participants safe. Masks should be expected to be worn for your own and other participants safety as needed.
TEDESCO CORRIDOR TRAIL UPDATE The long abandoned Ames to Kelly railroad line is now a new-off-road trail linking Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor on the South side of Ames to Kelly and the R38 roadside trail to Slater. Slater is a hub of paved, off-road trails: The Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, the High Trestle Trail and the Ankeny Trail.
Story County Conservation’s new Tedesco Corridor Trail also connects public and private efforts: Story County Conservation, the Outdoor Alliance of Story County and the dedicated volunteers who have been instrumental in making this project possible.
The planned trail enhancements will allow the corridor's native plants to take root, habitat become established, and wildlife flourish. Native plantings and the wildlife will invite a pause in our busy days. Benches will echo that invitation. With these enhancements, the Ames to Kelly railroad line will again be a welcoming gateway into Ames.
The trail enhancements are expected to cost about $32,000. Thanks to the generous donors, more than $8,500 has been raised by late September. Fundraising is ongoing and is another way to support Story County Conservation's work on the Tedesco Corridor Trail.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, PRAIRIE RIVERS OF IOWA’S THE WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVALPrairie Rivers of Iowa (Prairie Rivers) is a non-profit partnering with Story County Conservation in monitoring water quality in the county. This event will support this and other ongoing projects. More information about Prairie River is on their web site at www.prrcd.org
Attendees will get access to the Livestream event on Friday, from 7:30 - 9 pm CDT. A waiting room with a countdown to the film fest will start at 7 pm for those that login early. There will also be streaming available online for 5 days after the Livestream event. A link will be sent to ticket holders nearer to the time of the Livestream event they'll use to access it. Tickets are $20 each. More information about this event is on their website: www.prrcd.org/events. Contact Prairie Rivers of Iowa if you have questions at [email protected].
SATURDAY OCTOBER 10, 2020 WILD WOMEN OF THE WOODS The Outdoor Alliance is one of many groups and businesses that help support Story County Conservation’s Wild Women of the Woods. The event is designed to give women the opportunity to explore the outdoors, learn or improve skills, and network with women with similar interests. This event is intended for anyone who identifies as a woman, 18 or older. This year's format will be different than in the past in an effort to ensure participant safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event has been abbreviated to one day, and unlike previous years, meals will not be provided. Details, including fees, are included in the registration packet: 2020 Wild Women of the Woods Registration Packet.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 29, 2020 FALL FOLIAGE WALK Our walk begins at 1:30 in the woods and may be a chance to enjoy the changing fall colors at Soper's Mill. We'll meet at 56364 170th Street, Ames. The hike will end with snacks of whatever the hikers bring to share and reflect the on-going pandemic by being prepackaged, or at least, in separate serving baggies. Register here with Story County Conservation; space is limited and registration is required so we can better plan a safe outing together. The hike will be canceled if the weather or other conditions are unsafe. Please leave your dog at home. This event is led by an Outdoor Alliance of Story County volunteer and is cosponsored by Story County Conservation.
2019 EVENTS
Jan 3, 2019 Thurs E18 Greenbelt Trail, 56342 130th St., Story City. Those that want to carpool will meet for carpooling at Ada Hayden on the north parking lot by the shelter, leaving at 1:00. Directions: Drive north from Ames on I-35 and take the E18 exit just south of Story City. Turn left (west) and cross I-35, then turn left (south) into the trailhead a few hundred feet west of Hwy 35.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 10, 2019 Thurs Reactor Woods/Peggy’s Trail, Iowa State University, Ames., 2098 Scholl Rd, Ames. Directions: From Ontario Street in west Ames, turn north on Scholl Road. Cross the railroad tracks, follow Scholl Rd to the right, and take the first right turn after Kingman Road. Go straight on this road (it becomes unpaved) until it dead-ends at a small trailhead.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 17, 2019 Thurs Dakin’s Lake, 12635 710th Ave., Zearing. Those that want to carpool will meet at the baseball parking lot at the north side of 13thStreet and the west side of the Skunk River leaving at 1:00. Directions: From Ames, drive north on I-35 to the E-18 exit (Exit 123) and turn right (east) toward Roland and Zearing. Continue on E-18 for 14 miles and drive through most of Zearing. Turn left (north) into the park.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 24, 2019 Thurs McFarland Park, 56461 180th St., Ames.Directions: from 13thStreet and west of I35, drive north on Dayton Road four miles. The road ends at 180thStreet; turn right (east) and go a bit less than one mile to the where we will meet at the west end of the parking lot.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Jan 24, 2019 Thurs Winter Skies: Constellations, Stories and Folklore What one can see in the sky this time of year is explored by Dr. Sam Wormley who earned degrees in mathematics and electrical engineering and taught astronomy at Marshalltown Community College. Sam regularly teaches at OLLI, Iowa State University's college for seniors.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
Jan 31, 2019 Thurs Robison Wildlife Acres, 29490 632nd Ave., Nevada.Those that want to carpool can meet at Cinemark movie theater on S. Duff in the area between the movie theater and Staples, leaving at 1:00.Directions:Travel east from Ames on Highway 30; turn right (south) on S-14 just before Nevada, go on S-14 for 5.5 miles, then turn left (east) on 295th Street and go one mile to the parking lot.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Feb 7, 2019 Thurs Winter Hike Soper’s Mill- South, 56364 170th Street, Ames. Directions from highway 69 turn east towards the river at the Gilbert Casey’s. We will meet southwest of river at intersection of 170th Street and 563rd Avenue in the parking area by the river.
Hikes begin at 1:30 from the parking area and end in a picnic of whatever the hikers bring to share. For more information contact [email protected] or Story County Conservation who is cosponsoring these hikes with the Outdoor Alliance.
Feb 20 2019 Wed, The “Famous” history of the 13th Street DamThe buried alluvial aquifer that provides the community its source water for drinking has long been studied and analyzed by professors and graduate students at Iowa State University. Their research on the aquifer helped determine how water travels underground and reaches the downtown well field. Ms. Christina Murphy, Assistant Director for Ames Water and Pollution Control, will explore how the dam came about and explore it future.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
March 13 2019 Wed 7-8 Floral Jewels of the Tallgrass Prairie Prairies and other ecosystems, are recognized by their vegetation. Many types of tallgrass prairie communities can be observed in Iowa depending on moisture and fertility, how much disturbance there has been, and biogeography. The role of forbs in the many prairies of Iowa will be presented by Dr. Tom Rosburg.
Presentations begin at 7 pm at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium on the first floor.
The presentations are sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story, County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library and Ames Historical Society.
March 18-22, 2019 ISU Spring Break
April 10, 2019 Wed 6-8 Annual and Five Year Celebration at the Ames Public Library Tom Hazelton, CEO at My County Parks, will give a presentation on the economics of investing in the outdoors as part of this years' celebration. And yes, there will be cake and other hospitality. For more information contact [email protected].
April 14, 2019 Sun 2 - 4 Ames Reads Leopold, Ames Public Library, Farwell T Brown Room.Join guest readers as we explore the conservation and land ethic writings of Aldo Leopold. His most famous work, A Sand County Almanac, published in 1949, is still popular with naturalists and writers alike. Readers will share essays from this book, his other books and from other like-minded writers.
Ames Reads Leopold is sponsored by the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, Story County Conservation, Ames Public Library, Ames Historical Society and many other community organizations.
April 22, 2019 Mon Story County Conservation's Carroll Prairie Dedication Details are still being worked out for more information go to Story County Conservation's calendar. Carroll Prairie is a 49-acre property with remnant prairie and oxbow wetlands. The land is bisected by West Indian Creek, a watershed that Iowa Nature Heritage Foundation, Story County Conservation Board and Iowa Prairie Network have been actively protecting and restoring since 2011. Jennette Heritage Area is just downstream.
April 29, 2019 Mon 5:00 - 6:30 Evening Spring Wildflower Walk with Steve Lekwa at Hertz Woods 25401 Country Club Road Located 2 miles south of Nevada. Join us as we explore the spring ephemerals that bloom before the trees and other plants leaf out, blocking much of the sun on the ground.
May 23, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Prairie Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
June 27, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
July 25, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
August 22, 2019 Thurs 7 pm Evening Doolittle Walk
Join Dr. Thomas Rosburg at monthly prairie walks at the largest prairie remnant in Story County. See rare prairie flora that changes each month and learn the history of central Iowa prairies from a prairie enthusiast. Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug spray are recommended.
This program is cosponsored by Iowa Prairie Network and Story County Conservation, is free and does not require registration. Story County Conservation can be contacted at [email protected]. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
Updates
If you would like to receive information about upcoming events, send us an email at [email protected]. All events are open to the public. And no, we won't be flooding your inbox with emails; currently, a quarterly update is sent. Your information will only be used for Outdoor Alliance of Story County and will never be given or sold to others.
The board generally schedules a meeting on the second Thursday of the month at the Ames Public Library for 5:15. Sometimes there is a last minute change, so let us know if you are interested in attending.
The board generally schedules a meeting on the second Thursday of the month at the Ames Public Library for 5:15. Sometimes there is a last minute change, so let us know if you are interested in attending.
