Events and Activities : Benton County Conservation Calendar of Events Summer 2022

All programs are FREE of charge unless a price is listed.
Registration is required and masks are strongly encouraged when indoors.

**Please note that September 3rd's Monarch Tagging program has moved to September 2nd**

Pond Study - Blairstown Library Program
June 28th, 6pm at Hannen Lake Park - 1949 Ben/Ia Rd, Blairstown, IA 52209
Join Benton County Conservation Naturalists to explore macroinvertebrates that live in Hannen Lake. Macroinvertebrates are aquatic insects that tell us about water quality. Come out to Hannen Lake on June 28th to get first-hand experience at catching macroinvertebrates with nets and view them up close! This program is in conjunction with Blairstown Public Library's Summer Reading Program. Registration is not required.

Firefly Magic
July 1st, 8:30pm at Rodgers Park Enclosed Shelter
Come join Naturalist Faith for a night of exploration into the magical world of fireflies. Learn about some of Iowa's most unique bioluminescent insects that can be found right in your very own backyard! Participants will then make their own insect observation container then go on a firefly catching adventure to see what fireflies live here! Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight, bug spray and an upcycled glass jar with a lid. This program is suitable for all ages and is weather dependent. Registration is required by calling 319-472-4942 or by emailing info@bentoncountyparks.com.

Nature Kids: Frogs
July 8th, 10am at Benton County Nature Center
Ribbit! Ribbit! Who was that?! Come learn about Iowa frogs and who makes what sounds! Kids going into preschool through 3rd grade can enjoy this program with an adult. Program will include learning about frog calls, a book and a frog-catching adventure! Registration is required by calling 319-472-4942 or by emailing info@bentoncountyparks.com.

Habitat for the Bees
July 13th, 5:30pm at Benton County Nature Center
Help the bees by creating habitat! This program will include a brief overview of bees, why they are important, and how anyone can help. Participants are encouraged to bring their own empty food can to make a bee hotel. We will provide cans for those who need one. This program is free and family-friendly. Registration is required by calling 319-472-4942 or by emailing info@bentoncountyparks.com

Benton County Conservation Adventure Camp
August 9th - 11th for kids going into 6th, 7th and 8th grade
$80 per child - includes travel, food and lodging
Join us on a 3 day, 2 night trip to Eden Valley Refuge in Clinton County. Adventures include: a pontoon ride on the Blue Heron to explore the Mississippi River, view birds and find mussels, paddle on the 13 passenger voyager canoe, go caving and rock climbing and much more! Participants will meet at the Benton County Nature Center on August 9th and travel together to Eden Valley Refuge. Kids will learn valuable camping and survival skills along the way. If you are interested in signing up for this event, please visit https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Benton.aspx or call us at 319-472-4942 for more information. All registrations must be done online and be made ONE WEEK PRIOR to start of camp.

Monarch Tagging
August 26th, 2:30pm at Hannen Lake Park
Contribute to monarch citizen science by catching monarch butterflies on their amazing migration back south! Participants will get a chance to catch monarch butterflies, tag them for monitoring and test their health. This program is free, weather dependent and family-friendly. Participants should meet at the beach parking lot. Please call 319-472-4942 to register or email info@bentoncountyparks.com

Monarch Tagging
August 31st, 11am at Benton County Nature Center
Contribute to monarch citizen science by catching monarch butterflies on their amazing migration back south! Participants will get a chance to catch monarch butterflies, tag them for monitoring and test their health. This program is free, weather dependent and family-friendly. Please call 319-472-4942 to register or email info@bentoncountyparks.com

Monarch Tagging
September 2nd, 1:00pm at Hoefle-Dulin Area Park: 5901 27th Ave, Vinton, IA
Contribute to monarch citizen science by catching monarch butterflies on their amazing migration back south! Participants will get a chance to catch monarch butterflies, tag them for monitoring and test their health. This program is free, weather dependent and family-friendly. Participants should park by the boat ramp and meet at the playground. Please call 319-472-4942 to register or email info@bentoncountyparks.com