Programs & Events

Discover Fly Fishing

Muscatine County Conservation is partnering with First Watch Fly Co. to offer Fly Casting and Fly Tying Classes designed for beginners and anyone looking to spend intentional time outdoors.

Join us for a hands-on, 4-hour morning session where you will learn the fundamentals of fly fishing in a relaxed, supportive environment.

What You Will Learn
Fly casting fundamentals and techniques
Gear setup including rod, reel, line, and leader
Introduction to reading water
Fly tying basics with step-by-step instruction

Class Details
Duration: 4-hour morning sessions
Skill Level: Beginner friendly
All equipment provided (or bring your own)

Whether you are new to fly fishing or looking to build your skills, this class is a great way to get started and connect with the outdoors right here in Muscatine County.

Spots are limited. Registration required.

September Twilight Paddle

Let’s watch the sun set and the moon rise from Lake Chester.  Canoes, kayaks, and lifejackets are available to borrow, or bring your own.  Please bring a light that can be attached to your boat.  Sign up for any number of the upcoming Twilight Paddles.

Pre-registration is required by calling 563-264-5922 or by email at conservation@muscatinecountyiowa.gov.

Halloween at Saulsbury

A fun, entertaining, and safe Halloween event. Visitors will follow a drive through the campground at Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area where the campsites and other areas will be decorated with a Halloween theme (not scary) by campers.

A suggested $10 per vehicle donation will be collected to support the Muscatine County Conservation Foundation.

The first 300 children, 2-12 years of age, will receive a treat bag before they leave the event.

For More Information
Contact: Michelle Berns

Discover Fly Fishing

Muscatine County Conservation is partnering with First Watch Fly Co. to offer Fly Casting and Fly Tying Classes designed for beginners and anyone looking to spend intentional time outdoors.

Join us for a hands-on, 4-hour morning session where you will learn the fundamentals of fly fishing in a relaxed, supportive environment.

What You Will Learn
Fly casting fundamentals and techniques
Gear setup including rod, reel, line, and leader
Introduction to reading water
Fly tying basics with step-by-step instruction

Class Details
Duration: 4-hour morning sessions
Skill Level: Beginner friendly
All equipment provided (or bring your own)

Whether you are new to fly fishing or looking to build your skills, this class is a great way to get started and connect with the outdoors right here in Muscatine County.

Spots are limited. Registration required.

Winter Wreath Making

Want to spruce up that front door or fireplace? Kick off winter by creating your own homemade wreath using hand-foraged greenery from Discovery Park.

Bring a pair of gardening gloves and your creativity and we’ll provide the rest.

Pre-registration is required.

For More Information
Contact: Michelle Berns

Bald Eagle Watch

Join our naturalists at the Pearl City Station for eagle viewing outside on the deck overlooking the Mississippi River.

Exhibitor booths and activities for kids will be located inside the Pearl City Station. Coffee and cocoa will be served while supplies last.

For More Information
Contact: Michelle Berns

Winter Sowing: Native Wildflower Seed Workshop

Ever started a garden in the middle of winter? Come join us and learn how to start a pollinator garden right in your own yard.

Seeds and soil will be provided, but please bring gallon milk or water jugs for planting if you are able.

Prescribed Fire Workshop for Landowners

Landowners interested in using prescribed fire as a management tool for prairies and woodlands should attend this class. Participants can expect to be learning in an indoor classroom setting, as well as a few outdoor sessions. There will NOT be a prescribed burn.

$40 Registration fees cover the cost of food and a materials packet.

Register Now  (*Note - this link will take you to the Tri-Rivers.org website for payment and registration)

Topics to be covered:

Benefits of fire on prairies and forests

• Setting goals and objectives for a burn

• Creating and using burn plans

• Fire weather

• Constructing fire breaks

• Firefighting tools and techniques

• Safety, Safety, Safety!!!

This event is provide by the Great Rivers Alliance of Southeast Iowa. A partnership of both public and private conservation agencies who work together to improve the ability of all people to care for the naturals resources in Southeast Iowa. There will be a diversity of presenters at the workshop, each sharing their experience and expertise.

Disclaimer: This workshop is NOT a certification. It is an educational training to make attendees safer and more knowledgeable about using prescribed fire as a management tool.

Attending this workshop makes you eligible to check out a fire cache containing wildland firefighting equipment such as bladder bags, drip torches, Nomex suits, and other fire specific tools.

For More Information
Contact: Katie Hammond

Full Moon Owl Prowl

“WHO” do you think we will hear?

Let’s go wander through Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area and listen for owls.

We will follow the trail guided by the light of the Snow Moon!

Be sure to dress for the weather and we’ll meet at the Lodge parking lot.

For More Information
Contact: Michelle Berns