A Weekend with Fall Youth Corps (Part II – Yellow Banks Park)

A service day, nighttime catfishing, stargazing, and learning about Iowa’s natural and cultural history. Hear from our second fall crew as they reflect on their recent camping trip to Yellow Banks Park.

North Crew – Yellow Banks Park | Saturday Service Day

We were working at Yellow Banks Park, a park set along the river outside of Pleasant Hill. The relaxing woodland and prairie rejuvenates you. We worked on removal of aggressive native species, cutting down Smooth Sumac and Dogwood so it can be burned at a later date. These projects help better the prairie environment, keeping Iowa beautiful.

Saturday Evening

Saturday night we set up our tents, made dinner, went catfishing, and stargazed. It was epic. It was the perfect end to the day. We also learned how to start a fire using various different techniques, including using flint and steel, and a battery and steel wool. My favorite part of Saturday night was stargazing because it was really relaxing and interesting.

Sunday Recreation & Learning Day

On Sunday, we went on a hike around Yellow Banks, learned about Iowa natural and Native American history, and practiced throwing atlatls. The most fun part of the day was seeing how far we could throw the atlatls in the field and learning about the tools Native Americans used to survive. It was really interesting and engaging. Camping is super enjoyable when you are out with your friends!

Polk County Conservation Youth Corps aims to engage and inspire diverse youth through hands-on environmental stewardship projects, outdoor recreation, and conservation education. Ages 15+ can earn a stipend while engaging in a season of conservation service learning.