Planting the Seeds of Conservation in Iowa
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.
2025 Schedule
Wednesday, April 16 - 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. Refreshments provided.
Location: Nahant Marsh
Class time: 1.5 hours
Saturday, May 3 - 8:00 am-3:00 pm - Prairies, Forests, and Geology
Learn natural history and identify local flora and fauna identification with field trips to Manikowski Prairie, a 185-acre limestone prairie. We will explore the woodlands at Mississippi Palisades State Park in the afternoon. Lunch and snacks provided.
Location: Meet at Scott Community College, Lot F
Class time: 7 hours
Saturday, May 31 - 9:00 am - 2:00 pm - Aquatics and Geology
Learn about water quality, conservation practices, and restoration efforts at Nahant Marsh. This session starts at Nahant Marsh with a guided marsh tour, a macroinvertebrate study, and water testing. A tour of the Pine Grist Mill at Wild Cat Den TBD. Lunch and snacks provided.
Location: Nahant Marsh and Wild Cat Den
Class time: 5 hours
Saturday, June 28 - 9:00 am - 2:00 pm - Prairie and Geology
Guided Tour Codfish Hollow Hill Prairie. This is a high-quality, privately-owned prairie remnant.
Location: Meet at Hurstville Interpretive Center, 18670 63rd St, Maquoketa, IA 52060, From there we will caravan to the prairie. Lunch and snacks provided.
Class time: 5 hours
Wednesday, July 16 - 5:30-7:00 pm - Land and Water Conservation
This session includes a visit to a local farm to discuss conservation practices implemented on the farm.
Location: Meet at Robb Ewolt’s Farm - address will be provided before class.
Class time: 1.5 hours
Wednesday, August 13 - 5:30-7:00 pm - Planting the Seeds of Conservation
We will reflect upon the course and harvest seed from Nahant’s prairie for our final meeting. Harvested seed will be used in future and ongoing restoration projects. We will also discuss opportunities to volunteer in the community.
Location: Nahant Marsh
Class time: 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, amy@nahantmarsh.org
563-888-3173 (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)
