I have mentioned several times before about marking anni-versaries in time and reflecting back over previous years accomplishments. The MCCB recently celebrated the 10 year anniversary of the Conservation Center at the Grimes Farm. As we enter 2014, as in every year for countless rea-sons, we humans celebrate anniversaries and milestones in time. 25 years ago in 1989, also the wedding anniversary

for my wife and me, a funding mechanism to financially sup-port natural resource manage-ment was overwhelmingly enacted by the Iowa Legisla-ture. Most Iowans have had exposure to it but may not realize what it is or how sig-nificant a role it has played in natural resource management

across the state or how much of a cornerstone Resource Enhancement And Protection, better known as REAP, has become in Iowa.

Some people know REAP as the colorful license plates available to adorn their vehicles that show support for the program. Others simply know REAP for the benefits it has bestowed upon natural resource management and historic preservation in Iowa. Marshall County has benefited from REAP through the competitive grant system, as well as county allocations. These funds were used toward projects like the Grimes Farm and Conservation Center, acquisition of the Marietta Sand Prairie expansion and many behind the scenes support on projects and specialized equipment needed to perform maintenance activities on public lands.

With general operating budget belts cinched tight, it is pro-grams like REAP, in addition to private donations, that enable natural resource agencies like the IDNR and County Conservation Boards to accomplish projects and protection that quite literally would not otherwise happen. REAP is not immune to budget restrictions either. A complete histo-ry of the program can be found at http://www.iowadnr.gov/Environment/REAP.aspx and shows an up and down pat-tern of funding through time. With the 2014 25th anniver-sary of the program there is already wide support to fund

the program at a $25 million dollar level. This would be the highest ever, if funded at that level. As a beneficiary of a piece of this program, the MCCB encourages you to con-tact your legislators and call for support to fund REAP at the $25 million level in 2014. In addition to funding, it is the partnerships and collective of programs like REAP and organizations like CCB’s, Iowa DNR, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, Pheasants Forev-er, Ducks Unlimited, private donations, …and many others that enables the continued protection of the natural re-sources of Iowa for future generations to enjoy.

Where Were You 25 Years Ago? by Mike Stegmann, MCCB Director

Volume 28, Issue 4 Winter 2013

Marshall County Conservation Quarterly Newsletter

SeasonsSeasonsSeasonsSeasons

1.State Open Space 28%

2.City Parks and Open Space 15% 3.Soil and Water Enhancement 20% 4.County Conservation20% 5.Public Land Management 9% 6.Historical Resources5% 7.Roadside Vegetation 3%

*Information from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

REAP Fund Allocation

First $350,000 each year goes to

Conservation Education.

1% of balance goes for DNR

Administration.

The remaining balance is then

divided per the pie chart.*

Page 2 SEASONS

Getting Linked Using Renewable Energy By Tami Krough, Administrative Assistant

Did you know that wind has been used since the earliest civilization to grind grain, pump water, and power sail-boats? Wind is considered a renewable energy or clean energy source along with wa-ter and sunshine, because Mother Nature replaces them. MCCB decided to tap into this energy source and is now us-ing renewable energy to help power its new communication equipment. A couple of months ago, the Marshall County Information Services Department ap-

proached MCCB with an offer to update the internet connec-tivity at Grimes Farm. In the past, there had been problems with reliability and performance of the internet connection at the GrimesFarm and Conservation Center. To resolve the problem, communication equipment would be installed on the roof of the observation tower. Recently, this new wireless link to connect the Conservation Center and Landfill to the Marshall County Courthouse was installed on the Mildred Hach Grimes observation tower. This wireless link also serves as a backup link to the Sher-iff’s Department and the Court-house. You may ask, why use the observation tow-er? The reason is because of the height of the tow-er; it offers a clean line of sight from

Grimes Farm to the Courthouse.

A solar/wind power system has been installed to power the new equipment. Also installed was a new kiosk in the exhibit room of the GrimesFarm and Conserva-tion Center that shows how much energy the new system is generating, as well as, facts about solar and wind energy. This is an exciting new educa-tional tool to teach about renew-able energy.

The Marshall County Infor-mation Services thanks both the Marshall County Secondary Roads Department and Marshall County Buildings and Grounds Department for their assistance with the project.

For more information on renewable energy: http://www.alliantenergykids.com/EnergyandTheEnvironment/RenewableEnergy/022402

Ski & Snowshoe Rental

Chase away the winter blues by getting outside! The Marshall County Conservation Board has cross-

country skis and snowshoes available for rent at $5 a day per set plus a $50 deposit per set. A waiver of liability must also be signed. The deposit will be returned when the equipment is returned in good con-dition. Rented equipment may be used on the Grimes Farm trails or off site, but must be returned within

72 hours. The Marshall County Conservation Board offers many trails where cross-country skiing is allowed including: Grimes Farm, Green Castle, Timmons Grove, and Grammer Grove. During Marshall County Conservation Board sponsored events the equipment will be available for use at no charge. See

the Special Events listing on page 4 for ski and snowshoe program details.

WINTER HOURS AT NATURE CENTER

The GrimesFarm & Conservation Center will be changing to winter hours for the months of December, January, and February. Week day hours

will be Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. On Saturdays the center will be open from

9:00 a.m. - Noon on December 14, January 11, and February 8, 15, and 22.

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 4 Page 5

Reclaim Your Holidays

Reprinted from the Reclaim Your Holidays website

To stay grounded during the holiday rush, it’s helpful to be reminded of what really matters. The Pick 5 Sur-vey takes just one or two minutes to complete, yet provides a clear idea of

the factors Iowans find essential to a good quality of life. To take the survey, go to ReclaimYourHolidays.org and click on Pick 5 in the right hand column of the webpage. Another eye opener for all ages is the two minute PBS Happiness Store video found at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-otqBgCYyc. This video reminds us that quality matters far more than quantity. These resources are a part of a state Reclaim Your Holi-days initiative, a program of the University of Northern Iowa Center for Energy and Environmental Education in partnership with Iowa State University Extension and Out-reach. Two grant programs in Iowa--the Resource En-hancement and Protection Act Conservation Education Fund and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Solid Waste Alternatives Program--have provided support for this project. You can find out more about this initiative, and get many more ideas for reclaiming holidays and celebra-tions, at ReclaimYourHolidays.org. Creative Gift Ideas Have you ever felt the holiday crunch and scrambled to find that one last gift... or maybe that last dozen?! We can't buy your gifts for you, but we can help by suggesting meaningful, sustainable gift ideas. See some examples be-low, and download the pdfs for a more complete list. Gift for kids (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Hometown/gifts_for_kids.pdf)

• spend quality time just with me, not with my brothers and sisters around

• give craft supplies and help children make craft

• make a photo collage

Give gifts of experience (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Hometown/give_gifts_of_experience.pdf)

• give tickets to an upcoming production

• help fund a child’s summer camp

• treat your friends to a night out

• donate to a charitable organization or spend time serv-ing others

Spoiling grandkids: A guide for parents (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Education/spoiling_grandkids_guide_for_parents.pdf) Expressing love with gifts can be excessive and difficult to manage. Learn assertive communication skills to set limits and preserve relationships by avoiding blame, staying calm, being clear. Spoiling grandkids: A guide for generous grandparents, aunts and uncles (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Education/spoiling_grandkids_guide_for_grandparents.pdf) Passing on family values and heritage, creating traditions and strengthening relationships can be important to all gen-erations in families. Giving of our talents/skills, words, time, objects and touch are ways of strengthening the bonds of connection with family and friends. Strengthen local connections by giving Iowa-made gifts (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Hometown/iowa-made_gifts.pdf)

• find gift certificates to bed and breakfasts around Iowa

• learn about Community Supported Agriculture and how to purchase shares

• give Iowa-made wines, jellies & jams, and cheeses as host/hostess gifts

Give a green gift (http://www.uni.edu/ceee/sites/default/files/Hometown/add_some_green_to_your_holidays.pdf)

• help friends and family save money with gifts of com-pact fluorescent light bulbs, LED lights, and smart power strips

• find a container gardening system to give the gift of year-round gardening

• give bike gifts like homemade gift certificates to RAG-BRAI or bicycle trailers for families

• write a gratitude letter to lovers, family members or dear friends

GrimesFarm and Conservation Center will be closed:

• Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 for Christmas

• Wednesday, January 1 for New Years

• Monday, February 17 for Presidents’ Day

Green Castle Campground Green Castle Campground Green Castle Campground Green Castle Campground

Public MeetingPublic MeetingPublic MeetingPublic Meeting Tuesday, December 3 6:30 p.m.

GrimesFarm and Conservation Center

The public is invited to come give input about the design and amenities for the proposed campground at Green Castle Recreation Area. For further information please contact the

Conservation Board at (641)752-5490.

SEASONS Marshall County Conservation Board 2349 - 233rd Street Marshalltown, IA 50158

Return Service Requested

NON-PROFIT

U.S.POSTAGE

PAID

Marshalltown, IA

Permit No. 159

Printed on Recycled Paper

MARSHALL COUNTY CONSERVATION BOARD

2349 - 233rd Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158 (641) 752-5490

mccb@co.marshall.ia.us www.co.marshall.ia.us/departments/conservation

Conservation Center Hours Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - Noon

Board Members Jeffrey Mathis

Julie Stahl Jerry Gaffney Ray Helland

Staff

Mike Stegmann Director Diane Hall Naturalist Marty Malloy Maintenance Supervisor Jeremiah Manken Maint.Tech./Park Ranger Tami Krough Administrative Assistant Editor, Diane Hall

QR code for MCCB website.

Newsletter Collation: Kay Russell, Joan Studts, Dorothy Christensen, Kayann Lowry, Paul & Darlene Maytag, Dean & Ivadeen Proffitt, Dena Graff, Dianna Freiboth, Bob Dunham, Micki Stanley, Delores York, Irene Williams, Kenny & Patricia Long Programming: Mark Proescholdt, Carrie Barr Reception Desk: Sheila Geraghty, Janet Johnson, Jim Fitz, Ray Helland, Marian Flora, Margaret Kroener, Linnette Tuttle, Kristi Cameron, Marvis Drew Prairie Heritage Day: Ed Moore, Norm Charlton, Bill Egleston, Charlotte McGinty, Micki Stanley, Rose Wagner, Tom Kurth, Kayann Lowry, John Fritz, Sam Scafferi, Nicholas Stegmann, Irene Williams, Rachel Schrock, Sharon De-pew, Joan Studts, Sheila Geraghty, Alyssa &Vicki Fulton, Prairie Creek String Band, Dena Graff, Dianna Freiboth, Doris McCarty, Ed Savage, Paul Sams, John VanNordstrand, Keith Niedermann, Irene Elsberry, Tricia Schossow, David & Carla Young, Monte Aman, Larry Doepp, Jim Ramsey, Darrel Peterson, Matt Graesch, Ray Helland, Gary Fulton, Marilyn Willits, Julie & Haley Stahl, Allison Stegmann, Wayne Faas, Ray Steveson, Frank Roessler, Trevor Ketcham, Brenda & Jim Lee, John Hall, Leroy Jero, Nile Dielschneider, Jim Fitz, Phil Cox, Anika Lindholm, Tom & Jonathan Kirner, George & Sasha Crum, Pete Quaife, Jerry Jancik. Operation Releaf: Tim Stomwall, Conner Stomwall, Steve & Meghan Runge, Tom Ohlfest, David Mannon, Julie Stahl, Jim Fitz, Jerry Gaffney, Thomas & Steve Robinson, John Guthrie Day of Celebration: Marvis Drew, Dan & Cathy Montgomery, Sally Wilson, Janey Swartz, Denny Eige, Olivia Smith, Greg & Megan Hazen, Garry Branden-burg, Julie Stahl, Karen Bach, Carrie Barr, Prairie Creek String Band, Iowa Valley Bicycle Club, Amateur Astronomers of Central Iowa, Jerry & Cheri Gaffney, Jeff & Margie Mathis, Ray Helland, Boy Scout Troup 308 Maintenance: Tom Ohlfest, Gary Fulton Nature’s Treasures Craft Fair: Kathy Lupkes, Jeff Mathis, Gabby Reyerson, Julie and Haley Stahl, John Hall Donations : Ed Gifford (Tags), Lawrence and Mary Stewart, Sharon Depew, William Bestmann, Jay William Bestmann, Town and County Club, Mechdyne, Dean Proffitt, Steven & Karen Mroz, Martha Ellen Tye Foundation, Ronald Gam-ble, Morning Optimist Club of Marshalltown, Chapter 675 of the EAA.

If we inadvertently missed someone, our thanks to you also.

Help us keep costs down and save resources. If you would like to receive the newsletter electronically rather than having it mailed, please send an email to mccb@co.marshall.ia.us. Also

the electronic version is in color!

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 4 Page 3

December 4 & 18 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. January 15 February 5 & 19 GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd St) Preschoolers and their adult(s) are invited to listen to fun nature stories, take a walk and explore nature's wonders. Join us on the first and third Wednesdays each month.

Nature Story HourNature Story HourNature Story HourNature Story Hour

Brown Bag BunchBrown Bag BunchBrown Bag BunchBrown Bag Bunch Bring your lunch and join the naturalist for an

enjoyable outing at the GrimesFarm and Conservation Center. Monday, December 9 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m Natural Holiday Workshop Create a 3’ tall grapevine tree and pine cone garland; cost $5. Pre-register by December 5 at (641)752-5490. Space limited. Friday, January 17 11:30 a.m - 1:00 p.m. Iowa Owls Discover Iowa’s common and not so common owls. Thursday, February 6 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m The Buzz about Bees Discover the life of a bee and the beekeepers and the benefits of honey.

Calling All Junior Naturalists Do you qualify for this year’s nature badge

and certificate?

•Are you aged 6 – 12 years?

•Attended three conservation programs in 2013 anywhere in the U.S.

•Read a nature book, went hiking/camping/fishing or any other nature activity with family/friends

•Completed a Jr. Naturalist log sheet (find at the GrimesFarm

Conservation Center)

Contact Diane Hall, MCCB Naturalist at 752-5490 to register for the special 2013 Award presentation

to be held on Saturday, December 14 at 9:00 a.m. at the GrimesFarm & Conservation Center.

Uncle Ike Nature ProgramUncle Ike Nature ProgramUncle Ike Nature ProgramUncle Ike Nature Program (Grades 1-5, family members welcome) Celebrate 30 years with Uncle Ikes! This award-winning program is FREE and is co-sponsored by the MCCB and the Izaak Walton League to provide enjoyable environmen-tal learning experiences. “Wonders of Wildlife” is the theme for this year’s program that meets monthly from October - April. “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” Saturday, December 14 9 – 11 a.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd St.) Discover the world of predators and prey. Will you escape being eaten? “Bright-eyed & Bushy Tailed” Saturday, January 11 9 – 11 a.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center Explore the world of animals that are awake during daylight….hawks, squirrels, songbirds, and more.

“Whooooo Goes There?” Saturday, February 8 9 – 11 a.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center Discover the life of nocturnal wildlife...owls, bats, coyotes, raccoons, and more.

Full Moon HikeFull Moon HikeFull Moon HikeFull Moon Hike

Tuesday, December 17 6:00-7:00 p.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd Street)

Enjoy a moonlit hike through the winter woods. Dress warm-ly. Hot chocolate will be available after the hike.

Photo Contest Reminder

Remember, youth and adult entries are due by noon Friday, January 31, 2014!

Think Scenic (Natural Resources), People and Natural Resources, Native Wildlife,

and Native Plants. Perhaps you could win one of the $20 gift certificates. For contest

details call (641)752-5490 or visit www.co.marshall.ia.us click on Departments then Con-

servation Board and then Annual Photo Contest.

Page 4 SEASONS

13th Annual Photo Contest13th Annual Photo Contest13th Annual Photo Contest13th Annual Photo Contest

Awards & Bison Chili SupperAwards & Bison Chili SupperAwards & Bison Chili SupperAwards & Bison Chili Supper

Thursday, February 13 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd Street) Join us for a hot & tasty bowl of bison chili, an amazing array of nature photo entries, & (drum roll, please) an-

nouncement of this year’s winning entries! Advance tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. Don’t miss the fun!

Woodworking for WildlifeWoodworking for WildlifeWoodworking for WildlifeWoodworking for Wildlife

Saturday, February 15 12:30-2:00 p.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd Street) Think spring, bring your hammer and make a differ-ence for wildlife! Participants can build a wren or bluebird house. Pre-register by Wednesday, Feb-ruary 12 by calling (641)752-5490 and specify type of house wanted. Donations for materials will be accepted. Space is limited.

Tuesday, February 18 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center

Bring in newly harvested or old whitetail deer antlers to be measured by an official scorer. Learn general guidelines for antler measuring and work one-on-one with a scor-er to find out if you have a set of trophy cali-ber antlers.

Deer Antler ScoringDeer Antler ScoringDeer Antler ScoringDeer Antler Scoring

Sunday, February 23 Saylorville, Polk City Noon - 4:00 p.m. (515)276-4656 Discover more about this majestic national symbol and view eagles, which may be in the area. Sponsored by DNR Wildlife Diversity and Army Corps of Engineers.

Bald Eagle DaysBald Eagle DaysBald Eagle DaysBald Eagle Days

FlyFlyFlyFly----fishingfishingfishingfishing

Honeybee Workshop SeriesHoneybee Workshop SeriesHoneybee Workshop SeriesHoneybee Workshop Series

Saturday, February 15 9 a.m. to noon GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd Street) Part 1 Life cycle of the bee and beekeeping equipment.

Saturday, February 22 9 a.m. to noon GrimesFarm & Conservation Center Part 2 City ordinances, apiary locations, and hive management. Saturday, March 1 9 a.m. to noon GrimesFarm & Conservation Center Part 3 Diseases, assemble frames with pure beeswax foundation. Saturday, March 8 9 a.m. to noon GrimesFarm & Conservation Center Part 4 Health benefits of honey, honey extraction. Cost $35 per person which includes beekeeping course book. To register contact Dale or Eli at Fieldstone Farms, by phone (641)-477-8521 or email fieldstonefarms@netins.net.

Session 1: Basics of Fly Fishing Wednesdays, January 15-March 5 6:30– 8:30 p.m. Cultural Center YMCA Session 2: Fly Tying Techniques Wednesdays, January 15-Feb. 5 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cultural Center YMCA Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment, but there will be equipment and tools available if needed. This hands-on approach will assure a productive experience in the spring! Cost: Free with Y Physical or Mission Membership; Mission Membership Fee: $10 yearly ages 62+, $20 yearly under age 62. Please register in advance at Horne-Henry Cen-ter Service Desk. Class size may be limited. Contact Rita Hummel with any questions at 641-752-8658 ext. 208 or rita.hummel@ymca-ywca.org.

CrossCrossCrossCross----Country SkiingCountry SkiingCountry SkiingCountry Skiing

Saturday, January 11 1:00-3:00 p.m. GrimesFarm & Conservation Center (2359 233rd Street) Enjoy an afternoon on the trail in the winter wonderland on cross-country skis or snowshoes. Bring your own or use ours: supply limited. Basic instruction and hot chocolate will be provided.

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