OSKALOOSA — The Friends of Mahaska County Conservation is a private non-profit organization that was created in 2011 to  assist with fundraising efforts to support the Mahaska County Conservation Board and to support  Conservation education throughout Mahaska County. Recently the Friends group has been an integral part of  fundraising efforts for the Natural Playscape that is going to be built on the west side of the Environmental  Learning Center.  

Over the course of the last year the Friends group has raised approximately $11,000 in donations to go  towards the project. Recently the Friends received a $97,000 grant through the Iowa Arts Council which exists  within the Iowa Economic Development Authority for the Strengthening Communities Grant. The  Strengthening Communities Grant was created to help support rural non-profit organizations that are  committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. 

Most recently on February 27th, 2024, United Way of Mahaska County which works to empower local  communities by promoting education, promoting healthy living, and strengthening financial stability, granted  the Friends of Mahaska County Conservation $25,000 to go toward the playscape project.  

These fundraising efforts are being led by the Friends President Rodney Anderson and Ashley Utt from  Pathfinders RC&D. Rodney’s leadership and hard work has tremendously moved the project forward.  

The Friends of Mahaska County is always looking for new members to join their group to work towards  enhancing the park systems and outdoor opportunities in Mahaska County.