Although Iowa is a state that is predominantly known for its agricultural history, there is a strong history within the conservation and preservation movements. During the fall of 2001 the Iowa Department of Natural Resources began an oral history project to document the contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps, its members, and their stories in Iowa during the 1930's and 1940's. Since that time several hundred surviving members have been identified, and to date over 125 have been interviewed. In most cases interviews were taped or even video recorded and are being transcribed to help preserve their stories for generations to come. Many of the participants have provided the photographs used in this website and countless other documents and personal mementos for the Iowa CCC Museum located at Backbone State Park in near Manchester, Iowa.

This website is the first of several ways the information and stories collected during the project will be made available to the public. In addition to the information found here, a brief video is currently in production about the CCC in Iowa. Ultimately, the information will be compiled into a book and companion CD ROM that will be available for distribution to schools and other interested parties. We hope you enjoy the opportunity to visit with some of our CCCers via their pictures and stories that are included here.