Planting the Seeds of Conservation in Iowa

Overview

The Master Conservationist Program is a collaborative program offered by ISU Extension and Outreach, County Conservation Boards, and local conservation leaders and professionals. The intensive blended online and in-person curriculum is developed to equip Iowans interested in natural resource conservation with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about natural resources and to become local leaders and educators. Master Conservationists are individuals that share an interest in the sustainability of Iowa's natural resources and in becoming better stewards of those resources.

The curriculum is structured into four online modules that combine technical information presented and curated by Iowa State University researchers and educators with in-person sessions (field trips) led by local conservation leaders, practitioners, and experts. Module 1 'sets the stage' for the course, exploring the history and current structure of conservation in Iowa and also exploring the landforms and waterways that make up the state's land area. Module 2 digs deep into the structure, function, and challenges facing Iowa's natural prairie, forest, and aquatic ecosystems. Module 3 explores the wide range of conservation practices developed and implemented to address conservation challenges in Iowa. The final and fourth module then examines the human elements of conservation and explores how to communicate the importance of conservation to Iowa and Iowans. The online modules are self-paced and will be assigned during the first session. Participants may review the modules and resources at their own pace. 

Course graduates are awarded a certificate and encouraged to get engaged locally to apply the information they learn and continue to build their local connections to conservation professionals and other passionate conservationists.

Anyone over 18, regardless of state residency is welcome to sign up for the program.

Field Trips

Nahant Marsh Education Center has offered the Master Conservationist program since 2012 with more than 170 participants. Our experienced naturalists, along with field experts will be leading the field trips. These guided trips are a wonderful way to take the lessons learned from the online modules and apply them in the field. Dressing for the weather is vital for a more enjoyable experience. Hats, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, bug spray, snacks, and a water bottle are highly recommended. Trails are moderate to difficult.

Travel

If allowable, Nahant Marsh will provide transportation for field trips. Please note, some sites are 1-1.5 hours from the Quad Cities area. 

2024 Schedule

Wednesday, April 17 - 5:30-7:00 pm - Meet-n-Greet
Introductions and review of the online materials and resources for the course. The online modules and resources are self-led and participants may view them at their own pace. Location: Nahant Marsh  1.5 hours

Saturday, May 4 - 8:00 am-3:00 pm - Prairies, Woodlands, and Geology
Learn natural history and to identify local flora and fauna identification with field trips to Manikowski Prairie, a 185-acre limestone prairie. In the afternoon, we will explore the woodlands at Mississippi Palisades State Park. Lunch provided. Location: Meet at Scott Community College; from there we will caravan the preserves. 7 hours

Saturday June 1 - 9:00-2:00 pm  - Aquatic and Woodlands
Learn about water quality, conservation practices, and restoration efforts at Nahant Marsh. This session includes a guided tour of the marsh, a macroinvertebrate study, and water testing. Location: Nahant Marsh and Wild Cat Den. 5 hours

Saturday, July 6 - 9:00am-2:00 pm Prairie and Geology
Guided Tour of Ozark Wildlife Area, a 323-acre wildlife area on one of Iowa's most scenic waterways, with steep limestone bluffs and rolling hills. Location: Meet at Hurstville Interpretive Center, from there we will caravan to Ozark. 5 hours

Wednesday, July 17 -  6:00-7:30 pm - Land and Water Conservation
This session includes a visit to a local farm to discuss conservation practices implemented on the farm. Location: Robb Ewolt’s Farm 1.5 hours

Wednesday, August 14 - 5:30-7:00 pm - Planting the Seeds of Conservation
For our final meeting, we will reflect upon the course and harvest seed from Nahant’s prairie. Harvested seed will be used in future and ongoing restoration projects. We will also discuss opportunities to volunteer in the community. 1.5 hours 

Directions to the field trip locations will be provided 7-10 days prior to the field trip. Please contact Amy with any questions or concerns.

Contact info
Amy Loving, aloving@eicc.edu
563-336-3373 (office), 309-360-1454 (cell)
All classes and locations are subject to change due to inclement weather.

Course fee
Nahant Marsh Members receive a discount. Non-members will receive an individual membership in their fee.
$160 Members | $200 Guests (includes Individual Membership)