All Things Outdoors at the Ames Public Library
by Ben Schrag
As February comes to an end, Spring feels tantalizingly close. Whether you are a fan of the outdoors, are conservation-minded, or just love a good road trip, this week the Ames Public Library has several events for you!
Come to the library Wednesday night at 7pm for Adventures Along the Lincoln Highway, presented in partnership with the Ames Historical Society. Iowa journalist and historian Darcy Maulsby will talk about an amazing slice of Iowa history. Travelers on interstates (or any paved road) owe a debt of gratitude to the visionaries who promoted the Lincoln Highway as a way to connect the country.
On Thursday, February 27th at 7pm, join Mike Cox, Story County Conservation Director, to discuss the Story County Water and Land Legacy bond. The bond passed last November with nearly 78% approval. This program, presented in partnership with the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, will discuss the work included in the project and how to stay informed of the progress.
On Saturday, March 1st, we have two conservation themed events!
From 10 to 12, enjoy Creating Buzz: The Joy, Ease, and Challenge of Supporting Pollinators. This lively presentation dives into the fun of planting beautiful, nectar-rich flowers, the ease of simple steps like reducing sprays and mowing less, and the rewarding challenge of shifting attitudes about weeds and wild spaces. This event features Jamie Beyer, Lifetime Master Gardener; President, Central Iowa Beekeepers Association; Recipient, Spencer Award, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture. The Ames Seed Library will be on site, stocked with native and pollinator-friendly seeds and resources. Provided in partnership with Ames Public Library, Story County Conservation, and the City of Ames Pollinator Committee.
And, from 1:30 to 4:00 pm, join your friends and neighbors at this year’s Ames Reads Leopold event and hear the thought-provoking words of Iowa’s own Aldo Leopold, widely acknowledged as the father of wildlife conservation and a strong advocate for a “Land Ethic” in America. Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac was first published in 1949. These essays continue to be as poignant today as then. Presented in partnership with Ames Public Library and Outdoor Alliance of Story County.
Sure, we could always get more snow. But with these educational and fun events, spring will be in our hearts and on our minds!