The Butler County Conservation Board’s long-anticipated nature center expansion is nearing completion, marking a milestone in a project that began in 2021. With initial support from the Allan and Fayette Meyer Trust, community donations and numerous grants, the first phase doubled the center’s educational space and added a classroom and meeting area.
Since then, the board has secured nearly $500,000 to complete the new Allan and Fayette Meyer Nature Center’s hands-on exhibits, thanks to continued support from the Meyer Trust, the Black Hawk Gaming Association, Guernsey Foundation, Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa and private donors. The final check was received November 7th by Conservation Director Matt Wilken, who expressed deep gratitude for the trust’s generosity.
The first new exhibit—a climbable tree with an eagle’s nest reading nook—is expected to debut in December, followed by prairie displays depicting Iowa’s natural and pioneer history.
When these exhibits are in place, the Butler County Conservation Board will host a grand re-opening and renaming celebration. Those interested in viewing the exhibit plans are invited to visit the nature center Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or call ahead Monday through Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. For questions regarding the nature center or ways to donate, you can call 319-346-6551 or email conservation@butlercounty.iowa.gov.
Photo from November 7th – Conservation Director Matt Wilken receives final fundraising check from Meyer Trustees Wendell Abkes and Dallas Schrage (not pictured is trustee Joyce Harrenstein)
Information and photo courtesy of Butler County Conservation Board
