“I come out to McFarland Park with my kids; this is our favorite park to go to because of the kid-friendly features” 

“Kaitlyn

“Not enough people know about the beauty of our Parks; we have people come in all the time that have lived in Ames for years and never knew we existed.”

Jessica- Conservation employee

"I can't say enough about the outstanding service I received from your company. Their team went above and beyond to meet our needs and exceeded our expectations."

Oliver Hartman

“I’ve been coming to McFarland Park weekly for the past three to four years. I really enjoy the exercise and peaceful environment I get while I’m here.”

Robert

We have a Capital Improvement Plan that we create for all the things we want to do, which includes park maintenance and community outreach. However, our board of directors decides what we will actually do because of budget restrictions”

Marianne- Conservation Employee

“When I walk through the parks, I always hear the ruffling of the trees and the sounds of the birds and frogs.”

Anonymous

"I love bringing both my family and friends here! It is a great experience to come here and be out in nature"

Anonymous

"Help from community is always appreciated. Whether it is in the form of volunteer work or donations it all helps. "

Mike Cox

Conservation Director

Student Survey

According to a poll directed towards Iowa State University Students approximately only 14% of the students questioned had been to a county park. Yet overwhelmingly 93% of the students believed that parks and nature positively affect their mental wellbeing. But of the 14% that do go to the parks they tend to visit at least once a month if not more. These number are surprising since there are approximately 30,000 students enrolled at Iowa State University.