January Activities At Mahaska County Conservation
Check out some of the upcoming programs with Mahaska County Conservation!
Knee-High Naturalists “Nature Clues”
January 7, 2026
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center
This is a free program for kids ages 5 and younger. This month, the kids will learn how animals make tracks with their feet. We will also take off our shoes and make a few tracks of our own! An adult needs to accompany the participating child. A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program. Pre-registration is needed, and you can sign up using this link: Knee-High Naturalists “Nature Clues” – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
Coffee Club
January 9, 2026
9:00-10:00 am
Environmental Learning Center Drop in and join us for fresh coffee and tasty treats on a Coffee Club day. We talk about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities with Mahaska County Conservation, and about everything in nature. This month, bring a coffee cup or mug that has a winter theme on it to take part in a door prize. Registration is not needed, and we meet upstairs in the Discovery Lab.
Homeschool Science Lab “Draw My Picture”
January 14, 2026
10:00-11:00 am
Environmental Learning Center
This free program is open to homeschool and online students of all ages. This month, kids will explore animal drawing through a fun, interactive format. Students will receive playful clues to help them guess which animal they’ll sketch next, making the session both creative and engaging. Join us for an imaginative art experience designed to spark curiosity and artistic expression! A minimum of 5 kids is needed to hold the program.Pre-registration is needed, and you can sign up using this link: Homeschool Science Lab “Draw My Picture” – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
Owl Prowl at Eveland Access
January 16, 2026
7:00-8:00 pm
Eveland Access Campground Parking Lot
2890 Galeston Ave., Oskaloosa, IA 52577
Join us for a guided nighttime walk as we search for owls in their natural habitat. Learn about local owl species, their calls, and nighttime behaviors while enjoying a peaceful outdoor adventure. Perfect for all ages—dress warm, bring a flashlight and your sense of curiosity! Pre-registration is needed. Sign up with this link: Owl Prowl – Eveland Access , Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
Volunteer Training
January 19, 2026
1-2 pm or 5-6 pm
Environmental Learning Center
If you would like to join our volunteer team or renew your volunteer status, come to our one-hour training on January 19, 2026 at the Environmental Learning Center. Volunteers are asked to attend a training once every three years.Please sign up for one of two sessions by contacting our office at (641)673-9327, or emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov. Or using this link:
For 1:00-2:00 pm session: Volunteer Training (Afternoon Session) – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
For 5:00-6:00 pm session: Volunteer Training (Evening Session) – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
Nature Documentary “Oceans”
January 20, 2026
1:00-2:300 pm
Environmental Learning Center
Join Sir David Attenborough as he explores the wonders of the ocean and the threats it faces, like destructive fishing practices. With stunning underwater footage, this documentary highlights the ocean’s role in life on Earth and its fight against climate change. It also shows how marine ecosystems can recover if we take action now. Feel free to bring a drink and snack. Pre-registration is needed to reserve a seat. Save your seat by signing up with this link: Nature Documentary “Oceans” – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
O.W.L.S. “Backyard Bird Treats”
January 23, 2026
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Environmental Learning Center
In this hands-on program, participants will make easy-to-follow bird food cakes to take home and hang outdoors. These treats are perfect for attracting winter birds and adding a little extra nourishment during the colder months. Come enjoy a relaxed crafting session and leave with something your feathered friends will love! Pre-registration is needed. You can sign up by calling (641)673-9327, emailing decook@mahakacountyia.gov, or by using this link: OWLS Program “Backyard Bird Treats” – Caldwell Park, Mahaska County, IA – MyCountyPark.com
