Junior Naturalist Program | Polk County Conservation

Allows anyone ages 6-18, to enjoy the outdoors with professional guidance and family participation. The goal of this program is to encourage children and their families to participate in environmental education programs which will increase their knowledge and enjoyment of Iowa’s natural and cultural resources. There are two age groups: Junior Naturalist Level 1 (6-12 years of age) and Junior Naturalist Level 2 (13-18 years of age). JUNIOR NATURALIST LEVEL 1 (6-12 years of age) have five requirements to complete to receive the achievement award: 1. Attend three public programs. Examples include: wildflower hikes, night hikes, mammal programs, reptile programs, stargazing programs, etc.. 2. Complete two independent activities. Examples include: reading a nature book, going fishing, camping, hiking, etc. JUNIOR NATURALIST LEVEL 2 (13-18 years of age) have five requirements to complete to receive the achievement award: 1. Attend three public programs. Examples include: wildflower hikes, night hikes, mammal programs, reptile programs, stargazing programs, etc. 2. Complete two independent activities. Examples include: reading a nature book, going fishing, camping, hiking, etc. **One of the independent activities for Level 2 must be a one hour (or more) voluntary commitment toward a public conservation event.