Polk

It’s about the people.

Serving a diverse Central Iowa community, Polk County is among the nation’s most innovative public institutions. We bring together creative leaders, collaborative organizations and key resources to empower our communities and make life better for all people in Polk County.

5 Points of Progress

Prairie Seed Harvest
Conservation Events
Prairie Seed Harvest

Join us for a rewarding day in the great outdoors as we work together to protect one of the most endangered ecosystems on planet Earth – Iowa’s tallgrass prairies.

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9/13/2024

Election News
Polk County - General Election

Presidential General Election Tuesday, November 5 Polls Open 7:00a - 8:00p Absentee Ballot Requests

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9/13/2024

Veteran Affairs News
Veterans Mobile Food Pantry

October Veterans Mobile Food Pantry

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9/12/2024

Homeschool Programs
Conservation Events
Homeschool Programs

Join us for a season of learning at the Jester Park Nature Center. This program series will be delivered in a flexible format that is designed for homeschool students. Each month we will explore a new theme related to the natural world.

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9/13/2024

County Attorney News
Des Moines man sentenced to 60 years in prison for death and injury of infants

Keyontay’s mother, Keonna, told the court that her child’s organs were donated to other children. “His life won’t go in vain,” she wrote.

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9/11/2024

Homeschool Programs
Conservation Events
Homeschool Programs

Join us for a season of learning at the Jester Park Nature Center. This program series will be delivered in a flexible format that is designed for homeschool students. Each month we will explore a new theme related to the natural world.

read more

9/13/2024

Polk County Health Department Director Helen Eddy Announces Retirement
Health Department News
Polk County Health Department Director Helen Eddy Announces Retirement

After seven years of dedicated service, Helen Eddy, Director of the Polk County Health Department (PCHD), will be retiring on January 17, 2025.

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9/10/2024

RESCHEDULED - Sustainable Trails Training
Conservation Events
RESCHEDULED - Sustainable Trails Training

Join us for a hands-on sustainable "Trails 101" training event at Easter Lake Park.

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9/14/2024

Monitoring Water Quality at Easter Lake
Conservation News
Monitoring Water Quality at Easter Lake

During the summer recreation season, Polk County Conservation staff are regularly monitoring the water in Easter Lake, taking samples weekly for testing. Every week on Thursday or Friday, weekly results will be posted here.

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9/5/2024

Intro to Photography
Conservation Events
Intro to Photography

Join us for a morning at Jester Park to learn some tips and tricks for taking pictures outside. All experience levels and camera types (yes, even phones) are welcome!

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9/14/2024

Appointments Encouraged for All Services - Required for Title Transfer
Treasurer News
Appointments Encouraged for All Services - Required for Title Transfer

Appointments save time and are given priority.

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9/5/2024

Introduction to Water Color
Conservation Events
Introduction to Water Color

This class is for those who may have never painted a day in their life or may have dabbled a little with watercolor but would like to learn more. We will start with the basics, discussing paints, brushes, paper, and technique before moving on to painting our first work of art.

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9/14/2024