Recently, my significant other took a job in Iowa as a Conservation Ecologist. We were torn on the decision whether or not she should take the job, but ultimately we think it was the best decision for her, and for us. As such, I think choosing to study a watershed out in this area and become familiar with some of the conservation practices out there will help me become familiar with the projects they have going on and hopefully increases my chances of employment out there. I'm currently a Wildlife Biologist in Northern Virginia - see my About Me section above for more info on this.
One really neat thing for me is I was actually able to visit this watershed at the end of August/beginning of September. We hiked around a bit in the area and made sure bike one of the trails associated with the watershed. I've included some photos with descriptions below.
I'm thoroughly looking forward to exploring and learning about the various aspects of this watershed and watershed management in general.
Photo Credit: Me.
The above photo depicts and overview of the watershed and various measurements taken within the watershed itself. These measurements are updated periodically to reflect current conditions.
Photo Credit: Me
This photo shows part of a modified kayak/canoe launch at Mallys Weh-Weh Neh-Kee Park, which is also adjacent to a biking trail.
Photo Credit: Me.
This photo is adjacent to the above boat launch. An old railway was repurposed as an extensive part of Polk County Conservation's Biking Trails. This is one of the old railway bridges. Polk County manages trails ranging from just under 4 miles to over 25 miles.
Photo Credit: Me
This photo depicts a revetment/riprap used as mitigation strategy for bank stabilization during high water events. This helps prevent erosion along the banks.
Photo Credit: Me
This photo shows I believe a water retention area to control runoff from impervious surfaces (roads/sidewalks). This too helps reduce erosion, prevent flooding and helps to control water flow into larger streams.
Photo Credit: Me
Both of the photos above and below are views from the plane of the Des Moines River just southeast of Des Moines and the Fourmile Creek Watershed.
is this still a conservation site? are there any protected animals and plants there?
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