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Build a Leopold bench

Build a Leopold bench

  • 3/10/2017 2:24:00 PM
  • View Count 185222
This model holds a functional usefulness not readily apparent. By sitting backwards with legs through the opening, the backrest now provides a sturdy support for the elbows while using binoculars or cameras to observe nature around you.
Give Old Stuff New Life with These Upcycling Projects

Give Old Stuff New Life with These Upcycling Projects

  • 7/13/2016 2:01:00 PM
  • View Count 18870
Turn a tired old DVD case into a travel-friendly art kit, transform a vinyl banner into a useful tote bag or upgrade a scratched CD into the blingiest turtle on the block.
12 Upcycling Ideas for the Savvy Outdoor Enthusiast

12 Upcycling Ideas for the Savvy Outdoor Enthusiast

  • 3/2/2016 5:00:00 AM
  • View Count 18088
Camping and relaxing outside should be great ways to spend your day and not your money. Still, accessories and new fandangled gear can get pricey pretty quick, so try these alternative upcycling options to get back to the fun instead of the store!
8 Festive Birdfeeders to Make This Winter

8 Festive Birdfeeders to Make This Winter

  • 1/19/2016 9:58:00 AM
  • View Count 12906
While you may deal with this cold season by filling up on holiday treats and game day goodies, winter can be a lean time for Iowa wildlife. To help your feathered friends find a meal, take a few minutes to create one of these festive feeders for your yard, or make a fancy batch as a gift.
Create a Cleaner, Safer House with DIY Cleaners

Create a Cleaner, Safer House with DIY Cleaners

  • 7/17/2015 5:59:00 AM
  • View Count 13008
Sure, that spray cleaner can cut through grease and grime quickly. But did you know it might be a household hazardous material? Household hazardous materials (HHMs) are found in nearly every home, under sinks, and in closets, basements and garages. They may make chores easier, but they could also pose a threat to your family’s health, safety and the environment if used or disposed improperly.
Tutorial: Learn How to Compost at Home

Tutorial: Learn How to Compost at Home

  • 5/13/2015 5:54:00 AM
  • View Count 20056
Yard waste is the second major waste generated in cities and towns – and since it’s illegal to place yard waste in the trash in Iowa, it needs to be composted. While you can send off yard waste for municipal composting, it’s also easy to do in your own backyard, saving you money and helping your yard and garden. Use this tutorial from DNR staffer Karen Grimes to start your own compost heap at home.
Build a Bluebird House [Tutorial]

Build a Bluebird House [Tutorial]

  • 3/13/2015 5:49:00 AM
  • View Count 18804
Bluebirds should be arriving soon in Iowa, so now's a great time to clean out those bluebird boxes, or if you don't have one yet, to build your own!
Tutorial: Tie Your Own Soft Hackle Fly

Tutorial: Tie Your Own Soft Hackle Fly

  • 2/12/2015 9:53:00 AM
  • View Count 13571
There are few better feelings for an angler than hooking a fish with a homemade lure. The soft hackle fly is one of the oldest and most varied patterns; tie your own orange and pheasant breast fly in minutes with these simple steps.
Make Your Own Winter Survival Kit

Make Your Own Winter Survival Kit

  • 1/9/2015 9:58:00 AM
  • View Count 8450
Winter outdoor lovers should take extra travel precautions as rural and natural areas can put you alone against the elements during emergencies. A skid into a ditch, mechanical problems, black ice, drifting snow or sudden storms can lead to unplanned, dangerous situations in areas where passersby are rare.
How to Build Your Own Rain Barrel, Step-by-Step

How to Build Your Own Rain Barrel, Step-by-Step

  • 9/2/2014 8:14:00 AM
  • View Count 94594
If you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective way to water your plants and garden without connecting the hose to the tap, a rain barrel can help you collect and recycle rainwater.
12 Iowa Camping Hacks and Tricks

12 Iowa Camping Hacks and Tricks

  • 8/25/2014 7:30:00 AM
  • View Count 27546
If you’re just getting started or are looking for some new ideas, try some of these camping tips and tricks.
Reuse and upcycle your old stuff with these simple projects

Reuse and upcycle your old stuff with these simple projects

  • 8/7/2014 9:01:00 AM
  • View Count 13699
Not going to watch those old 1980s VHS tapes? Have some unworn t-shirts lying around? Put them to good (and stylish) use with these simple projects from the DNR's Reusapalooza at the Iowa State Fair.