Celebrate 50 years of creating Champions of Nature.
In 1973, B.B. Stamats and Jean O’Donnell shared a vision of a nature center that would promote a more sustainable world. Their vision soon came to life as Indian Creek Nature Center, Iowa’s first private nonprofit nature center. Its new home was 120 acres of land surrounding the Penningroth Barn, which is still being used for programs 50 years later.
Over the years, the Nature Center has transformed to meet the needs of our community throughout our history thanks to generous donors and dedicated staff and volunteers. In our 50th year, we’re looking to carry on the legacy of immersive outdoor education, land restoration, and sustainable leadership that began in 1973.
During our 50th year, we are honoring our past and celebrating our future in 4 distinct ways.
BioBlitz
This June, ICNC is inviting the community to become citizen scientists as we conduct the first BioBlitz in our 50 year history. This free weeklong event will create a collective snapshot of the biodiversity of the Nature Center to inform future land management projects.
50 Donors Celebrating 50 Years
As a nonprofit nature center, donors large and small are essential to sustain our mission into the future. We will recognize 50 Donors who are investing in Indian Creek Nature Center’s next 50 years.
50th Celebration Event
October 14th, we’re inviting everyone to come celebrate 50 years with live music, delicious food and drink from local producers, a live auction and more at our 50th Celebration Event. Tickets will be on sale January 20th.
50 Stories for 50 Years
Throughout the year, we will be sharing perspectives from many of the people who have impacted the Nature Center in our 50 Stories for 50 Years blog series, sponsored by New Leader Manufacturing. You can share your story with us at our 50th Anniversary page.