Rocks of Iowa and Grand Opening of the Iowa Rocks Display

What is in a name? Would a rock by any name feel as smooth? Explore silicates, sandstones and shales in this hands on program led by a local rock expert. On Tuesday, July 23, 6 – 7:30 p.m. come to the Henry County Conservation Nature Center at Oakland Mills and find out. Mike Messer, President of the Sac and Fox Lapidary Club, will try to answer some of these questions. Discover how Iowa’s rocks came to be in our fields, streams and parking lots.

A major change in the Nature Center has occurred over the past few weeks. The puppet theater has been removed and in its place a new display of Iowa Rocks and artifacts has taken its place. Tuesday’s presentation will describe how the display came to be.

The collection contains some important rocks and artifacts preserved from the Iowa Wesleyan collection. With help from many sources, the Sac and Fox Lapidary Club has donated ideas, time, labor, display cases and equipment to make this area reflect an important part of Iowa geologic history.

When arriving at the nature center, take some time to admire the new plantings that surround the entrance. This is the second year for the pollinator planting. The plot also demonstrates how one can combine the perennial pollinators with nursery annuals to create a pleasing yard.