Darkness Hike

Darkness Hike

November 18th, 6pm at Benton County Nature Center

Under the cover of darkness, see nature in a new light! This will be a dark hike, lit only by the moon and stars! This program will require quiet participation for ample wildlife encounters. Registration is required by visiting mycountyparks.com

Tracks & Scat

Tracks & Scat

November 20, 10am at Rodgers Park - Enclosed Shelter; Geared for PreK - 12th Grade

Get ready to step into the shoes of a wildlife detective! In this fun and educational outdoor program, participants will learn how to identify animal tracks and scat (droppings) to uncover what animals live in the area, what they eat, and how they behave. Through guided exploration and a hands-on “scat” snack activity, kids will develop observational skills and learn about the secret lives of animals. Participants MUST REGISTER in advance at mycountyparks.com. Participants do not have to be in a homeschool group to participate.

Iowa's Past & Future: Prairie Chickens & Sandhill Cranes

Iowa's Past & Future: Prairie Chickens & Sandhill Cranes

November 20th, 6pm at Vinton Public Library (510 2nd Avenue, Vinton, IA 52349)

Join us for an educational program exploring the rise and fall of two of Iowa’s most captivating bird species: the greater prairie chicken and the sandhill crane. Learn about their unique behaviors, the challenges they’ve faced, and the inspiring conservation efforts that are helping bring them back to our landscape. Get all the details on our upcoming guided bus trip to witness the great sandhill crane migration and experience the thrill of watching prairie chickens on their booming grounds! No registration required.

Registration Opens: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Youth Trek

Registration opens for Boundary Waters Canoe Area Youth Trek!

For youth who are 14-18 years old.

The trip is July 23rd - 30th, 2026 with a mandatory training date of July 19th.

This is a partnership between Benton and Buchanan County Conservation. Scholarships are available!

Register at www.mycountyparks.com/County/Buchanan/Events