Conservation Board Announces New Director, Nate Young
The Buena Vista County Conservation Board would like to introduce Nate Young as the new director. Nate began his duties with the Conservation Board on June 1. He is a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology. His work experience includes an extensive background in the construction industry, seven years as a Technician with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the last six years as an Environmental Specialist with the Department of Natural Resources in Spencer. Nate's interests are riding and training horses, hunting and fishing and land conservation. He is excited to work with the people of Buena Vista County by providing and enhancing public outdoor experiences. He lives near Larrabee with his wife and son. The Conservation Board is excited to welcome Nate and his family. You may contact him at the Buena Vista County Conservation Park or by calling him at 712-295-7985.

Gary Christiansen Dedication
A large crowd turned out for a special dedication ceremony on August 23, 2009, to honor the life of Gary Christiansen and his dedication to the Buena Vista County Conservation Board. The Board honored Gary by renaming the Bur Oak Wildlife Area south of Peterson to the Gary Christiansen Wildlife Area. Gary was director of the Buena Vista County Conservation Board from 1983 to 2009 until his sudden death in March. He dedicated his life to the outdoors and under his direction, the Conservation Board created numerous wildlife habitat and park areas. Board chair, Mark Kirkholm, spoke on behalf of the Board, "We want to dedicate this property to him today, we want to recognize, celebrate and appreciate everything he did for us and the Conservation Board, the citizens of the County-he worked very hard to make this area a little better for all of us."

2009 - Spring/Summer Event Schedule
Click here to see the event schedule. As time allows, there will be more public and recreational programs planned for the summer. If your family is interested in taking part in any of the activities listed above or checking to see what has been added, please call Lisa Meusburger, the Naturalist, at 712-749-2563.