Devon Boes, Program & Outreach Coordinator, will tell us all about the beautiful Athene Northshore Recreation Area at Easter Lake, a park owned and operated by Polk County Conservation. Tuesday, March 25, 6:45 pm, at the Des Moines Izaak Walton League, 4343 George Flagg Pkwy (intersection of Geo. Flagg & Park, Des Moines 50321. Northshore’s mission: Strive to be the most universally designed, diverse, and equitable outdoor recreational space in the country. To quote Devon “The most important thing park users should know is that it was carefully designed for EVERYONE. We have leaned on the input of design experts, service providers, individuals with disabilities, caretakers, and more to ensure best practice throughout the design and creation of the park and programming. The park features accessible single-user restrooms, including one with a child/adult universal changing station, a Wellness Room for nursing mothers and those who need quiet space, an inclusive playground with a variety of equipment and sensory experiences, and more. Plus, accessible signs and wide paved pathways make exploring the park fun for everyone. Devon Boes is a trained and experienced occupational therapist who has years of practical experience helping people of all abilities achieve small and large goals alike. In addition to her professional experience, Devon’s educational background includes studies in environmental science, making her a perfect fit! Admission to Devon’s talk is FREE and Open to the Public, with a Lasagna dinner at 6 available for purchase.

The Iowa DNR’s Kim Bogenschutz, Aquatic Invasive Species Program Coordinator, will visit the Des Moines Izaak Walton League to help us understand how we can prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasives in Iowa waters, Tuesday, April 15 at 6:45 pm. 4343 George Flagg Pkwy (Intersection Geo. Flagg & Park), Des Moines 50321. It’s good knowledge to have as we head into the spring fishing and boating season! Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are animals and plants that are not native to Iowa and cause environmental, economic, and human harm. These species can be introduced and spread through a variety of activities including boating, fishing, aquarium ownership, and water gardening. It’s also illegal to do so! In Iowa, common aquatic invasive species include zebra and quagga mussels, bighead carp, black carp and various plants like brittle naiad and curly leaf pondweed. Learn what TO do, and what NOT to do to keep our waters clean and healthy! In addition to her work with IDNR, Kim is vice-chair of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Invasive Species Committee, past chair of the Mississippi River Basin Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species, and is on the Board of Directors for the Midwest Invasive Plant Network. Admission to Kim’s talk is FREE and Open to the Public, with doors opening at 5:30 and dinner at 6 available for purchase.