Calendar
Events for July 2025
10:00 am to 11:30am
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Not so scary bats.
Montezuma, IAJuly 1, 2025
10:00 am · 11:30am
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
Come learn about Iowa's insect eating bats as well as fruit bats who live in warmer climates. We'll especially focus in on how echolocation works and play an echolocation game.
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
1:00 pm to 2:00pm
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Not so scary bats
Montezuma, IAJuly 1, 2025
1:00 pm · 2:00pm
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
Come learn about Iowa's insect eating bats as well as fruit bats who live in warmer climates. We'll especially focus in on how echolocation works and play an echolocation game.
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
5:00 pm to 7:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 3, 2025
5:00 pm · 7:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation
7:00 pm to 8:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 3, 2025
7:00 pm · 8:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation
Independence Day - County Offices Closed
Poweshiek County, IowaFriday, July 4, 2025
12:30 am to 2:30pm
Diamond Lake Park between shelters 2 and 3
Kids Kayaking Day at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 9, 2025
12:30 am · 2:30pm
Do you have elementary aged kids who might like to try kayaking, but you haven't made it out to one of our evening or weekend kayaking programs? This is for you! We'll try boats out on dry land, fit everyone with life jackets, and launch into a shallow area of the lake, We'll have plenty of adults on hand, and gear for towing younger kids while they ride in their own boat. We'll also have other lake themed activities available on shore to keep kids busy when they aren't on the water.
Grown ups are welcome to kayak or they can stay on shore with younger siblings if needed. Feel free to bring lawn chairs, snacks, or anything else you need to make it a pleasant time for grown ups and kids!
RSVP required. Call Amy to RSVP or with any questions at 319-213-5607.
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
9:30 am to 11:30am
Diamond Lake Park between shelters 2 and 3
Kids Kayaking Day at Diamond lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 9, 2025
9:30 am · 11:30am
Do you have elementary aged kids who might like to try kayaking, but you haven't made it out to one of our evening or weekend kayaking programs? This is for you! We'll try boats out on dry land, fit everyone with life jackets, and launch into a shallow area of the lake, We'll have plenty of adults on hand, and gear for towing younger kids while they ride in their own boat. We'll also have other lake themed activities available on shore to keep kids busy when they aren't on the water.
Grown ups are welcome to kayak or they can stay on shore with younger siblings if needed. Feel free to bring lawn chairs, snacks, or anything else you need to make it a pleasant time for grown ups and kids!
RSVP required. Call Amy to RSVP or with any questions at 319-213-5607.
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
6:00 pm to 7:30pm
Drake Community Library, South Patio

Prairie Walk at Drake Community Library
930 Park StreetGrinnell, IA
Map to Event
July 10, 2025
6:00 pm · 7:30pm
This library prairie "walk" series is more prairie, less walking, as the Drake Community Library prairie is locatied just off the library's south patio. We'll look at what's in bloom, and talk about using native plants in an urban landscape. This is a great way to get to know some of the plant species that have been growing in Iowa for thousands of years.
Join us in June, July, and August to watch the prairie transform through the summer!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
9:00 am to 10:45am
Hawthorne Lake WMA (Barnes City) West Boat Ramp (Urbana Ave)

Kayaking at Hawthorne Lake
Barnes City, IAJuly 11, 2025
9:00 am · 10:45am
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Enjoy a morning on the water! We'll explore the lake at the DNR's Hawthorn Lake Wildlife Management Area, just 15 minutes southeast of Diamond Lake in Barnes City. We'll meet at the west boat ramp. Amy can help give you directions when you call to RSVP.
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Website
Posted by: Conservation
9:00 am to 11:00am
West of Grinnell
Kessler Prairie Tour
(RSVP for address)Grinnell, IA
Map to Event
July 12, 2025
9:00 am · 11:00am
Jim Kessler and his family have cared for this 26-acre preserve for over 25 years. In 2018, he and his wife donated the preserve to Bur Oak Land Trust to be protected forever. Join us for a tour to see oak savanna, wetland, and of course prairie! We expect dozens of native species to be in bloom! Please bring water, wear shoes for hiking, and long pants. There is no restroom at the prairie.
This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to Poweshiek County Naturalist Amy Durbin to receive the address.
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
Hickory Hills (south of Waterloo)
Outdoor Journey for Girls - @ Hickory Hills Park
July 15, 2025 to July 17, 2025
Outdoor Journey for Girls is 3 days, 2 nights camp hosted by Iowa Women in Natural Resources for girls ages 12 to 15. Girls will have the opportunity to try various activities like kayaking, orienteering, archery, campfire cooking, and fishing, while also completing their Hunter Education Course through in person training.
Poweshiek County Pheasants Forever generously reimburses registration costs for all girls who attend. Once you have registered email proof of payment (a screenshot is fine) to aandrews@poweshiekcounty.org and after your child attends camp you will be reimbursed for the $175 registration fee. This offer is available for ALL girls from Poweshiek County.
Contact Naturalist Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org or call 319-213-5607 to learn more about this great opportunity.
Sign up and additional camp info at the link below:
https://www.iwinr.com/outdoor-journey-for-girls
For More InformationContact: Amy Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org
Posted by: Conservation
Hickory Hills (south of Waterloo)
Outdoor Journey for Girls - @ Hickory Hills Park
July 15, 2025 to July 17, 2025
Outdoor Journey for Girls is 3 days, 2 nights camp hosted by Iowa Women in Natural Resources for girls ages 12 to 15. Girls will have the opportunity to try various activities like kayaking, orienteering, archery, campfire cooking, and fishing, while also completing their Hunter Education Course through in person training.
Poweshiek County Pheasants Forever generously reimburses registration costs for all girls who attend. Once you have registered email proof of payment (a screenshot is fine) to aandrews@poweshiekcounty.org and after your child attends camp you will be reimbursed for the $175 registration fee. This offer is available for ALL girls from Poweshiek County.
Contact Naturalist Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org or call 319-213-5607 to learn more about this great opportunity.
Sign up and additional camp info at the link below:
https://www.iwinr.com/outdoor-journey-for-girls
For More InformationContact: Amy Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org
Posted by: Conservation
Hickory Hills (south of Waterloo)
Outdoor Journey for Girls - @ Hickory Hills Park
July 15, 2025 to July 17, 2025
Outdoor Journey for Girls is 3 days, 2 nights camp hosted by Iowa Women in Natural Resources for girls ages 12 to 15. Girls will have the opportunity to try various activities like kayaking, orienteering, archery, campfire cooking, and fishing, while also completing their Hunter Education Course through in person training.
Poweshiek County Pheasants Forever generously reimburses registration costs for all girls who attend. Once you have registered email proof of payment (a screenshot is fine) to aandrews@poweshiekcounty.org and after your child attends camp you will be reimbursed for the $175 registration fee. This offer is available for ALL girls from Poweshiek County.
Contact Naturalist Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org or call 319-213-5607 to learn more about this great opportunity.
Sign up and additional camp info at the link below:
https://www.iwinr.com/outdoor-journey-for-girls
For More InformationContact: Amy Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcounty.org
Posted by: Conservation
10:00 am to 11:30am

OWLS (Older Wiser Livelier Souls) - Make and Take Prairie Bouquet
Montezuma, IAJuly 17, 2025
10:00 am · 11:30am
Join us for a brand new program! This one is geared for adults. We'll have a different activity each month throughout the summer.
In July we'll use learn about prairie wildflowers in a hands on way - by making prairie bouquets! Bring a small mouth mason jar, or use one of our upcycled jars or bottles.
This program will be capped at 12 participants. If we have additional interest, we may schedule an afternoon session. RSVPS are required. Call Amy at 319-213-5607 to RSVP.
For More Information(319) 213-5607
aandrews@poweshiekcounty.org
Posted by: Conservation
5:00 pm to 7:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 17, 2025
5:00 pm · 7:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation
7:00 pm to 8:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 17, 2025
7:00 pm · 8:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation
10:00 am to 11:30am
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Water travels the world
Montezuma, IAJuly 22, 2025
10:00 am · 11:30am
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
We’ll talk about how water can travel the world and how it can affect plants.
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
1:00 pm to 2:00pm
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Water travels the world
Montezuma, IAJuly 22, 2025
1:00 pm · 2:00pm
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
We’ll talk about how water can travel the world and how it can affect plants.
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
10:00 am to 11:00am
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Amazing Ants
Montezuma, IAJuly 29, 2025
10:00 am · 11:00am
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
We will observe and learn about ants - their habitats, structures and adaptations!
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
1:00 pm to 2:00pm
Diamond Lake Park- Main Shelter
Nature Explorers - Amazing Ants
Montezuma, IAJuly 29, 2025
1:00 pm · 2:00pm
Summer Nature Explorers is a free program for preschoolers through 5th graders - though learners of all ages are always welcome! We will meet every Tuesday at Diamond Lake Park. Some weeks will be a nature story and craft, others will be a short science lesson or outdoor activity. The same program will be offered at 10 am and 1 pm, come to whichever works for your family's schedule. Feel free to bring a picnic to eat in the shelter before or after your program.
We will observe and learn about ants - their habitats, structures and adaptations!
RSVPs are not required, but they are always appreciated!
Email Amy at adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov or text 319-213-5607.
For More Information
Contact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
adurbin@poweshiekcountyiowa.gov
Posted by: Conservation
5:00 pm to 6:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 31, 2025
5:00 pm · 6:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation
7:00 pm to 8:45pm
Diamond Lake Park - Boat Ramp

Kayaking at Diamond Lake
Montezuma, IAJuly 31, 2025
7:00 pm · 8:45pm
RSVPs are required for kayaking. To RSVP, call Amy at 319-213-5607.
Meet at the Diamond Lake Boat Ramp. Beginners welcome! All sessions start with a quick lesson. Kayaks and life jackets are provided. These events will be held regularly throughout the summer, and are a great time to do something as a family, meet up with an old friend, or make new friends!
For More InformationContact: Amy Andrews Durbin
(319) 213-5607
Posted by: Conservation