PAST EVents
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.
2022 SPRING EVENTS
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 dhaug@prrcd.org, 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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org: (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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov.
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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 mkellner@prrcd.org.
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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org.
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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. Doolittle Prairie is at 14249 560th Ave., Story City, IA 50248.
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.
2022 SPRING EVENTS
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 dhaug@prrcd.org, 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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org.
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 info@oasco.org: (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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov.
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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 mkellner@prrcd.org.
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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org 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 info@oasco.org.
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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 conservation@storycountyiowa.gov. 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 info@oasco.org. 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.
