Be our Partner!

Our Partners annual giving program allows dedicated individuals to make a difference by supporting conservation in Story County. Learn more here.

 Money raised by Partners during fiscal year 2026-2027 will be directed towards the purchase of 242 acres along the South Skunk River near Cambridge, IA currently owned by the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. Our goal is to raise $100,000.

           Public Support Levels

Red-tailed Hawk - $1,000+
Great Blue Heron - $275 - $999
Red Fox - $125 - $274 
Goldfinch - $70 - $124 
Otter - $1 - $69 
    

Goldfinch level and higher receive 10% off program registration fees, camping, and building rentals, as well as, invites to special events.

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Donations (Memorial and other)

The Friends of Conservation Trust Fund allows you to donate in a variety of ways. You may choose to donate a gift of money for a project, commemorate a special occasion, or remember a loved one with a gift. 

At checkout, please describe in the comments box any specific requests for how the donation is to be used. If it is in memoriam, please name the individual. 

 Your gifts to the Friends of Conservation Trust Fund are tax-deductible under U.S.C. section 170(c)(1). We recommend that you confer with your tax preparer for information on tax-deductible donations.

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Development for Deppe Property

A new park is coming soon near Ames and you can be part of it!

The Deppe Property, is a 124-acre tract recently acquired by Story County Conservation. With timber, a small stream, more than 90 open acres, next door to McFarland Park. Prairie restoration is ongoing and anticipated park opening is in 2027.

Donations will combine with funds from the Story County Water & Land Legacy Bond and grant funding to construct a picnic shelter, parking area, and develop a trail system, wayfinding signs and more.

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Walleye Rearing Pond at Hickory Grove Park

Walleye habitat was high-priority during the recent lake renovation. Walleye have been stocked, but we will not receive additional walleye until the rearing pond is completed. Managing a rearing pond will allow us to create a balanced year class structure, ensuring a healthy population of walleye into the future!

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Support Story County Trails

Story County Conservation maintains more than 93 miles of various trails throughout the county. Support ongoing trail maintenance and construction of new trails by donating today. 

We'll see you on the trail!

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