Valuable Sand Art
In the late 1800s, a man from McGregor used colorful sand from what is now Pikes Peak State Park to create art that astonishes. Those works ae now worth staggering sums.
Story by Brian Button
Love from Ledges
A deeply personal, impactful story of youth, growing up, loss of an aging parent and renewal. Learn how nature connects, strengthens and heals. Then get your family outside.
Story and Photos by Brian Gibbs
American Master
An Arizona-based photographer is on a mission to photograph all 420 remaining Frank Lloyd Wright structures. See his impressive images and thoughts about the Walter House at Cedar Rock State Park
Story by Brian Button, Photos by Andrew Pielage
Quest for Big Snappers
For almost 50 years, Mark Rouw has been fascinated by snapping turtles and on a quest ot doument Iowa's largest. See why its a tough task as some people erroneously dislike these remarkable creatures.
Story by Brian Button
Making a Difference
After retiring, a couple wanted to stay active, so they bought some land. Then they discovered a few strange looking plants which launched a 25-year adventure to rescue and restore a prairie remnant, oak savanna and woodlands.
Story and Photos by Ronald Eckoff
Outdoor Skills
Master a super-useful knot, learn to identify female versus male monarchs and how to save slow moving turtles.
Mythbusters
Are snapping turtles mean, aggressive creatures that some fear them to be? Or should this myth "turn turtle."
Lost in Iowa
It's summer! Explore and visit state parks to soak up their relaxing, refreshing beauty.
Bryozoa - Weird Blobs
Its an acient water creature unlike anything else. Found in warm, still water it also graces Iowa bedrock as fossils form days of salty seas.
Notes from the Field
We pulled our archives for this column that first appeared in 1999. Unfortunately, after 25 years, the message still needs repeating for those on the water.