Outdoor Recreation & Tourism Business Development
Friday, February 28, 2025 8:30am-3pm Iowa Western - Council Bluffs campus Learn from industry leaders as they share their success stories, strategies for growth, and the impact of outdoor recreation & eco-tourism on western Iowa’s rural communities. View the draft agenda here. Cost: $50. Register here. |
Classes start Tuesday, March 11, 2025 from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm and continue one Tuesday evening per month until November.
This hands-on series is designed for landowners, natural resource professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge of managing Iowa’s unique ecosystems. Participants will explore topics such as tree and plant identification, invasive species management, herbicide application, equipment operation, trail design, tree and shrub removal, wildfire planning, and ecosystem restoration. Some classes will include fieldwork at off-site locations, offering real-world application and insights. Each class is $65, or register for all classes in the series for a total of $499. |
Wildland Fire Planning & Management
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm Hitchcock Nature Center This course covers the fundamentals of wildland fire planning and management. Participants will learn how to develop fire management plans, assess wildfire risk, and implement strategies for fire prevention and response. Topics include fire behavior, safety protocols, prescribed burning, and managing fire-prone landscapes to protect ecosystems and communities. Register here. $65. |
Tree & Shrub Removal
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 - 5:30pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus This course covers the essential techniques for removing trees and shrubs, focusing on best practices for clearing invasive species and managing woody encroachment. Learn about proper tools, safety measures, and effective methods for removal in diverse landscapes. Ideal for land managers, conservationists, and anyone interested in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Register here. $65. |
Herbicide Use
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus - Looft Hall This course covers the safe and effective application of herbicides in land management. Learn how to identify invasive plant species, select appropriate herbicides, and apply them using best practices to minimize environmental impact. Topics include safety protocols, equipment use, and integrated pest management strategies for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Register here. $65. |
Tree & Plant Identification
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus - Looft Hall This course is part of the Land Stewardship Series. Learn to identify native and invasive trees, plants, and shrubs that impact western Iowa’s prairie and savanna ecosystems. This hands-on course will teach you how to recognize species that need protection and those that require management or removal to preserve fragile landscapes. Gain practical skills to support effective land stewardship and conservation efforts. Register here. $65. |
Equipment Operations
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm Council Bluffs Learn the basics of operating essential equipment for effective land management. This hands-on course covers the use of machinery like Bobcats for shearing, grinding, and mulching; Bush Hogs for mowing and shrub removal; brush cutters; and other tools. Gain practical skills for maintaining and restoring landscapes safely and efficiently. Register here. $65. |
Soft Trail Planning & Development
Tuesday, August 5, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm Hitchcock Nature Center This course focuses on the principles of designing sustainable soft trails in natural landscapes. Learn how to plan, layout, and build trails that minimize environmental impact while providing access for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. Topics include trail alignment, erosion control, and long-term maintenance strategies, with an emphasis on creating trails that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Register here. $65. |
Intro to OSHA
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 5:30 pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus - Looft Hall This course provides an overview of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they apply to land management and stewardship activities. Learn about safety standards for working with heavy equipment, herbicides, and in the field, as well as proper risk management practices. Ideal for land managers and those involved in outdoor conservation work, this course helps ensure a safe and compliant work environment. Register here. $65. |
Seed Harvesting, Processing, & Cleaning
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus Discover the techniques and tools needed to harvest, process, and clean native seeds for restoration projects. This hands-on course covers best practices for collecting seeds, ensuring quality through proper processing, and preparing them for planting or storage. Perfect for anyone interested in conservation or land restoration efforts. Register here. $65. |
Business Basics
Tuesday, November 4, 2025 5:30pm - 8:30pm IWCC Council Bluffs Campus Learn the foundational skills and strategies needed to start and manage a successful business. This course covers essential topics such as creating a business plan, understanding finances, marketing your services, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Ideal for aspiring business owners or those looking to strengthen their business knowledge. Register here. $65. |
Address712 South Highway Street
P.O. Box 189 Oakland, IA 51560 |
ContactPhone: 712-482-3029
General inquiries: [email protected] Visit our Staff Page for email addresses and office hours. |