Lyon County, Iowa

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Octoberfest is October 10th!  Come join the fun!

Conservation

Craig Van Otterloo

Director

 

Emily Ostrander

Naturalist

 

Kyle Ciesielski

Operations Supervisor

 

Justin Smith

Park Ranger

 

Kayla Gerloff

Office Manager

Phone:  (712) 472-2217

 

Mailing Address:

Lyon County Conservation Board

300 S. 4th Avenue, Suite 200

Rock Rapids, IA  51246

Forms & Documents

Lake Pahoja Cabin Rental Form

 

Lake Pahoja Full Amenity

Cabin Rental Form

 

Lyon County Wildlife Areas

 

Scout Area Request Form

 

West Shelter House Reservation Form

 

East Shelter House Reservation Form

 

Become a Foundation Member

 

Geocache Placement Permit

 

Education Center Information/Donation Form

Online Cabin Reservations

Now Available!

Reservations can be made at www.mycountyparks.com

 

Nature Center Funds Raised

GOAL: $1.7 Million

Raised: $1.35 Million

History & Purpose

In 1955 the Iowa State Legislature passed a law permitting counties to establish County Conservation Boards. (CCB) The Lyon County Conservation Board was formed in 1963, for the purpose of acquiring, conserving, and developing natural resource projects of the county.  The Conservation Board program is supported by a property tax levy, user fees, and grants.

 

The five person board is appointed by the Board of Supervisors for a period of five years in staggered terms.  The members serve without pay, but may receive their actual expenses for mileage, etc. while carrying out official duties.  Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are open to the public.

 

According to the Code of Iowa, Chapter 350, the CCB is empowered to study and acquire land for museums, parks, preserves, parkways, playgrounds, recreation centers, forests, wildlife, and other conservation purposes and for participation in watershed, drainage, and floor control programs for the purpose of increasing the recreational resources in the county.  The CCB may accept a transfer of land from the Department of Natural Resources, County Board of Supervisors, or City Government as long as due consideration is given to its scenic, historic, archaeological, recreational, or other special features.

 

The CCB is also empowered to employ and fix the compensation of a Director who shall be responsible to the CCB for the carrying out of policies.  The Director, subject to the approval of the Board, may employ and fix the compensation of assistants and employees as necessary for carrying out the operations associated with the organization.

 

With leisure time becoming more of a treasured aspect to all segments of our society, the result has been a growing demand for public outdoor recreational opportunities.  In coming years, the Conservation Board program seeks to insure ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational potential within the county.

Environmental Education

The Environmental Education Department has many programs available for Lyon County.  Programs range from Animals of Northwest Iowa to the Water Cycle.  We have a variety of skins and mounts that are used for educational purposes.  We also have a live snake, turtle, and salamander that come out for programs as well.

 

Programs are set up for each group individually so we can accommodate all ages.  Programs are given at schools, nursing homes, libraries, Lake Pahoja, and our classroom in Rock Rapids.  If your group/organization would like to see an environmental education program call our office today at (712) 472-2217.