The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach conservation and water quality education programs Iowa Learning Farms and Water Rocks! have been recognized by the Soil and Water Conservation Society with the 2021 Conservation Innovation Award for their Conservation Station trailers. The Conservation Innovation Award recognizes an outstanding activity or service that promotes the conservation of soil, water and related natural resources.

“The Conservation Station Mobile Education Trailer Program embodies conservation innovation," says Clare Lindahl, Soil and Water Conservation Society CEO. "It marries science, practice and art to facilitate learning experiences. I have heard firsthand from farmers and youth who have been inspired and empowered to engage in conservation because of their interactions with a Conservation Station."

The Conservation Station fleet comprises four trailers, each equipped with hands-on demonstrations, educational materials and equipment. and games and activities. The trailers  are designed to provide an immersive educational experience that is uniquely relevant to Iowa.

The newest trailer, Conservation Station Marsh Madness, was launched in May and focuses on wetlands education. It features three 3D, museum-quality interactive models that demonstrate the unique landscape placement and hydrology of different wetland types in Iowa, as well as a full sensory immersion learning lab with images, sounds, 3D plants and animals, and floor-to-ceiling artwork.

"We are delighted to have our Conservation Station trailers be selected by SWCS for this innovation award," says Jaqueline Comito, Iowa Learning Farms director. "These mobile education platforms are integral to the core outreach and education mission of the Iowa Learning Farms and Water Rocks programs and make up the heart of our summer activities."

Funding for the Conservation Stations is provided by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa Department of Natural Resources (USEPA Section 319), Iowa Nutrient Research Center and the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture.

The Conservation Station trailers are fully booked for the 2021 summer season, with planned appearances at field days, community celebrations and festivals, fairs, farmers markets, youth camps and summer school events. Staffed by ISU Extension and Outreach experts, the Conservation Stations provide a comprehensive learner-centered platform to encourage multigenerational visitors to be active participants in exploring the interconnectedness of the natural resources around them.

To find a Conservation Station appearance in your area, visit the Water Rocks calendar online.

Staudt is a conservation outreach specialist with Iowa Learning Farms and director of Water Rocks.

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