Connecting people with nature and improving natural resources –

making Story County a great place to live, work, and recreate

Story County Conservation works to provide central Iowa with a variety of outdoor leisure opportunities and quality recreational facilities.  Story County Conservation maintains over 3,500 acres of parks and natural areas within the county.

The Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management department assists private landowners in developing and managing wildlife and habitat plantings and maintains vegetation along Story County roads.

The Environmental Education Program works with school districts and day cares to provide classroom programs and outdoor field trips that promote environmental awareness and enjoyment of our natural resources.

Only non-toxic ammunition is allowed on Story County owned public hunting land.  Public Hunting Brochure

For additional information about the services, programs and facilities offered by Story County Conservation, please utilize the following contact information:

STORY COUNTY CONSERVATION
56461 180th Street
Ames, IA 50010-9451 
PHONE: (515) 232-2516
FAX: (515)-232-6989

EMAIL: conservation@storycountyiowa.gov
WEBSITE: www.storycountyconservation.org
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/storycountyconservation

 

Permanent Protection for Deppe Property

A new park is coming soon near Ames and you can be part of it! The Deppe Property, located immediately south of McFarland Park, is a 124-acre tract recently purchased by Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. With timber, a small stream, more than 90 acres of open field, this property will complement the neighboring offerings at McFarland Park.

As a wildlife refuge, the Deppe Property will add an increased buffer for species like wild turkey and whitetail deer from development as Ames continues to grow. As permanently protected land, we hope to bring prairie and wetlands back to the landscape to hold soil, clean water, and give home to countless plants and animals... with permanent protection.

We're currently raising funds necessary for the land acquisition before we can open Deppe Family Conservation Area to the public. As of September 2023, we are more than 83% of the way there! Your gift now brings this park closer to completion and closer to opening. Your donation matters today, tomorrow, and every day into the future. Please give to be part of adding this new park to your neighborhood!

Click here to donate now.

 

Nature Connect is SCC's new Service Assistance Program

Qualifying households can now receive 50% off:

• Nature camps at McFarland Park
• Environmental education programs
• Camping at Hickory Grove Park, Dakins Lake, and Robison Wildlife Acres
• Shelter reservations

How do I get assistance? Call Mid-Iowa Community Action 515-956-3333 to verify need and receive your discount code. 

Activities in Story County

Enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences and recreational opportunities at our lakes and rivers, parks, trails, prairies, marshes, and woodlands including camping, hiking, swimming, picnicking, bird watching, kayaking/canoeing, geocaching, bicycling, fishing, and hunting.

 

A new park is coming soon near Ames and you can be part of it! The Deppe Property, located immediately south of McFarland Park, is a 124-acre tract recently purchased by Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. With timber, a small stream, more than 90 acres of open field, this property will complement the neighboring offerings at McFarland Park. As a wildlife refuge, the Deppe Property will add an increased buffer for species like wild turkey and whitetail deer from development as Ames continues to grow. As permanently protected land, we hope to bring prairie and wetlands back to the landscape to hold soil, clean water, and give home to countless plants and animals... with permanent protection. We're currently raising funds necessary for the land acquisition before we can open Deppe Family Conservation Area to the public. As of September 2023, we are more than 83% of the way there! Your gift now brings this park closer to completion and closer to opening. Your donation matters today, tomorrow, and every day into the future. Please give to be part of adding this new park to your neighborhood!

Parks in Story County

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