THE WILLIAM M. AND DONNA J. HOAGLIN FOUNDATION, INC. (Foundation)

  

                                        Shimek State Forest Wet Weather Trails                                     

This Project was begun after the completion in 2019 of a separate project funded by the Lee County Charitable Fund, and FOS to repair several areas with major weather damage on the Wet Weather Trails at Shimek. The complete re-rocking of over six miles of trails to prolong the life of the trails was begun in fall 2019 and concluded by the end of November 2020. Forester Byrd planned and scheduled the project to perform the work at the best possible time for protecting the trail surfaces. He selected a smaller grind lime-chip size rock for the flatter trails which will be easier on the horses feet and used road rock on the more sloping, vulnerable areas. All work has been completed as documented in the photo page attached.

 All Wet Weather Trails are entering the 2020-21 winter in excellent condition. Never has this been more valuable for the Forest and for the equestrian community in southeast Iowa. Due to the impact of COVID-19 in 2020, the usage of the trails has rocketed as people turned to more outdoor activities for recreation. Forester Byrd estimates that the usage on the trails has at least quadrupled as compared to last year. (There are no precise numbers as so many riders are day-riders.) FOS Board members and Forester Byrd express their appreciation to the Foundation for the support to provide area citizens a high quality, safer trail system for riding in wetter weather.

Documentation and pictures

by Lora Conrad

Editor

Kathy

Shimek State Forest Hike on Your Own First Day Hike 2021 Recommendation

 

Join the First Day Hike Challenge in Iowa State Parks DES MOINES – The Iowa DNR and Travel Iowa invite Iowans to participate in the 2021 First Day Hike Challenge to ring in the New Year through the digital State Park Passport. The challenge takes the place of traditional guided hikes due to COVID-19. “We are looking for ways to encourage both outdoor fun and social distancing,” said Todd Coffelt, Bureau Chief of Parks, Forests and Preserves. “First Day Hikes are a popular tradition in state parks, and the passport is a great way for people to enjoy winter hikes on their own or with their families.” With the First Day Hike Challenge, park visitors can check into any of the more than 50 participating state parks on the passport from Friday, Jan. 1 through the end of Sunday, Jan. 3. Every check-in will qualify for a prize drawing of a 2-night stay at a 2-bedroom cabin at Lake Darling State Park near Brighton. Restrictions will apply on the cabin stay, with reservation fees and other business rules applying. Visitors can go to as many parks as they wish during the weekend -- every check-in counts as a contest entry.  Additionally, visitors will find trail suggestions and directions from park staff under the “More Info” tab for each park entry on the passport. Last year, more than 4,300 people participated in hikes on New Year’s Day across Iowa. Hikers can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, and experience spectacular views, beautiful settings and the cultural treasures offered by Iowa’s State Parks. Participants should dress for the weather, including warm, sturdy boots for winter conditions. For more details on First Day Hikes in Iowa’s State Parks, and to find links to sign up for the Parks Passport, visit www.iowadnr.gov/firstdayhikes.

Trail Status Change at Lick Creek Unit-WWT Only 11/24/20

Paint Iowa Beautiful Project at Shimek Forest

 

 
Paint Iowa Beautiful Project at Shimek Forest

 

  

Picnic Table before pressure washing

Diamond Vogel, through the Paint Iowa Beautiful Project, awarded Friends of Shimek a grant of 5 gallons of stain in 2020. The stain was to be used to refurbish picnic table tops and benches, beginning with those in the Shimek Forest Lick Creek Unit. The stain was awarded to Ringo Covert, President of Friends of Shimek, by Nick Wittenmyer at the Diamond Vogel Store in Burlington. Due to the COVID pandemic, work was delayed, seeking a way to safely accomplish the task. Under the leadership of Patrick Thomas, DNR Technician at Shimek, DNR staff  began the project by pressure washing the tables to remove soil and mold from the old but sturdy tables. A test project showed that one gallon of stain would only cover a few tables!! The wood had been untreated for so long that it is very absorbent. With sufficient tables cleaned for the stain available, on the Iowa DNR Parks Volunteer Day, Patrick and a group of five Volunteers completed the staining of tables until all five gallons of awarded stain and three additional gallons purchased by DNR were used. The result was tables that look like new! A remarkable transformation occurs and hopefully the useful life of the tables will be extended. There are many more tables yet to do! Hopefully with volunteers, DNR staff, and additional stain, more can be refurbished next year.

 

 The first step of the Paint Iowa Beautiful Project at Shimek Forest  was to pressure wash the tables. On the DNR State Parks Volunteer Day, a small group of volunteers, following COVID guidance, worked with DNR Technician Patrick Thomas to stain the tables.  Volunteers shown, left to right, Marvin and Doris Thomas, Bruce Huddleston, Jo Watson and Marsha Achenbach assisted Patrick with the staining.

   

  

The results of pressure washing tables and applying Diamond-Vogel stain is spectacular!  The tables look new again though they are well over 20 years old, thanks to the Paint Iowa Beautiful Project at Shimek Forest.  This project has only done a small number of the tables, but more are planned in the future, when funds are available.

 

 Thank you for your support of our project.

on behalf of Friends of Shimek

Lora Conrad, Secretary

Kathy, Editor 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DNR crew completing work on the Wet Weather Trails

The Shimek DNR crew have been spreading lime chips and road rock on the Wet Weather Trails--getting them ready for another year of trail riding even in wet conditions. The rock has been provided by a grant from the William M and Donna J Hoaglin Foundation. The Foundation has been the major benefactor in the development of the Wet Weather Trails at Shimek. The DNR Crew have provided most of the ...labor. As riders, our responsibilities are two-fold --- 1)do no harm: Follow the regulations about riding only on trails that are open --trails can be all open, or only Wet Weather Trails open or all closed--depending on weather conditions. 2)leave no trash: If you carry it in, carry it out--maybe be extra nice and pickup and remove any trash you see. Much appreciation to both the Foundation and the DNR Crew from all the Friends of Shimek. (Photo by Jo Watson)

 

As a reminder hunting season is upon us.  Please use caution by wearing your reflective clothing while out riding. 

 

We hope you are enjoying these beautiful fall days. Winter will soon be upon us and we will be wishing for the warm riding weather.

 

May your trails be blessed with beauty and enjoyment.

 

Kathy

 

Editor

 

 

 

DNR Director Kayla Lyon and Assistant Director Alex Moon visit Shimek

State Director Kayla Lyon and Assistant Director Alex Moon 

 
Ann Bennett, Bonnie Moothart and hubby Doug, were hosts to the Iowa DNR Director Kayla Lyon and Assistant Director Alex Moon for a trail ride in Shimek. Ann (past president of Friends of Shimek) provided horses for our guests, and Bonnie (board member) and Doug (valued volunteer) rode along to assist the riders. After our lovely ride in 70+ degree temperatures thru the lovely fall foliage and sunshine, Bonnie and Doug provided lunch of drinks and snack style foods.

  

 

 

 

 

 

Shimek Forest hosted a DNR Volunteer Day

Shimek Forest hosted a DNR Volunteer Day on Saturday 9/26 as part of the Iowa State Parks Centennial Celebration. DNR Technician Patrick Thomas was joined by five volunteers that morning who helped stain picnic tables as part of the Friends of Shimek 2020 Paint Iowa Beautiful grant. DNR staff had already pressure washed and dried the tables in preparation for staining. After staining the tables look like new! Thanks all for the help. The newly built manure bunker was also stained. All 5 gallons of stain awarded by Diamond Vogel Paints as well as three more gallons bought by DNR have been used. The tables are so dry they really soak up the stain so quite a lot more will be needed to do all 57 tables in the forest. However, this should greatly lengthen the life of the tables as well as make them look much better. Many thanks from all of us that will enjoy those tables for years to come to Patrick, the volunteers and Diamond Vogel. (Photo by Jo Watson

 

Virtual Shimek Forestry Field Day October 1, 2020

Attend the Virtual Shimek Forestry Field Day on October 1, 2020, 11am -12pm. Shimek Forester John Byrd announced that the virtual field day will be held instead of the in-person Shimek Forestry Field Day. The theme is “Forestry For the Birds.” Forestry professionals will take you through timber harvesting management and wildlife-avian professionals will evaluate how this affects birds/wildlife. Timber market updates and forest health issues will also be discussed.

The Virtual Shimek Forestry Field Day is FREE. You will access it from your computer via ZOOM.** For more information and to pre-register, go to https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/forestry-virtual-field-day-planned-shimek-state-forest

You can ask questions live the day of the event.

Please put the date on your calendar so you do not miss this educational opportunity. **You will need ZOOM to enjoy (and participate in) the field day. If you do not already have it, download the free “Zoom Client for Meetings” from https://zoom.us/download to your computer. Do this in advance of the date and run a demo to be sure your camera/ speaker/ microphone are working.

For additional info, you can contact

Forester Byrd: John Byrd Area Forester, Shimek State Forest

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

P 319-878-3811 | Fax 319-878-3821

33653 Rte J56, Farmington, IA 52626

 www.iowadnr.gov

 

Dirt Trails have Opened

This information is a few days behind.  For those who do not know:

 

As of 9/18/20 all Shimek Forest Lick Creek trails are open for riding per Forester Byrd.

There are few areas that are still muddy.  Please avoid this if it is at all possible

Enjoy your next ride.

Happy Trails

Kathy

Editor

 

Annual Volunteer Day Event

Trail Status Change - Dirt Trails are Closed 9-10-20

TRAIL STATUS CHANGE! As of 9/10/20, the Shimek Forest Lick Creek dirt trails are closed to riding due to the recent rainfall. The Wet Weather Trails (rocked trails) are still open for riding at this time. (However, rain continues in the area).

We will keep you updated as the trail conditions become available.  This has definitely been a challenging year for riding.

Stay Safe and Healthy

Kathy

Editor

 

 

Cancellation of September Workday and Potluck.

Friends of Shimek work day and potluck cancelled for September 26, 2020.

As we to work through this Coronavirus pandemic, Friends of Shimek have decided to cancel all events scheduled through the end of the year. We feel it is best to do our part to ensure we do not contribute to the possible spread of the virus. Your safety and health is important to all of us.

On a lighter note the trails are open and are in pretty good shape. It is important to be mindful of fellow riders. Give them plenty of room on the trail to allow for social distancing.

May the trails you ride be full of fun and laughter, may the sun shine fully on your face, and may you find some peace and tranquility on the journey through the forest.

Kathy

Editor

The Dirt Trails Are OPEN

GOOD News!! ALL Shimek Lick Creek equestrian trails are open for riding as of today. However, there are still some wet boggy spots---please avoid those if possible. We will advise as we learn where these are. I was out riding this morning. There are a few logs to cross, some muddy areas, and some quite tall foliage. But over all the trails are in nice shape considering the amount of rain we have had. Enjoy your ride! For any DNR changes to trail status see: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Pla…/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures Kathy Editor

FOS July 2020 Update: Holiday Riding and Camping and Cancellation of Work Day

Cancellation of July 8 Group Work Day.

The FOS Board and the Shimek DNR staff have decided to cancel the July 8th scheduled FOS Work Day.  The wet conditions we are currently experiencing make it unlikely that we can do any work on the dirt trails nor can we paint or stain unless the wooden tables and posts have thoroughly dried.  These issues combined with the continuing risk of COVID-19 mean we are cancelling this group work day.

Holiday Camping and Riding

If you are camping and riding over the holiday at Shimek, please stay off the dirt trails which are closed to avoid damage to them while they are so wet.  Right now the Wet Weather Trails are open, but rains are still in the forecast.  The trails status is posted by DNR  at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures In addition a phone message is left on the DNR Shimek Headquarters phone at 1-319-878-3811 regarding trail status.  FOS also posts this information on Facebook as quickly as we learn of any changes, but our posts are unofficial.

Do your Part to Keep your Friends and Family Safe.

As you camp and enjoy the forest over this holiday weekend , please remember to follow the CDC guidelines to keep a safe distance from others and to wear face masks when around others as well.  Bring your hand sanitizer and use it often! We are all being asked to help slow the spread of this dangerous disease by not unknowingly infecting others when near them.  Many people have few if any symptoms while in the the early, highly contagious stages of the disease.  The person you save from COVID may be your best friend.

Dirt Trails are closed as of 6-10-20

Attention: June 10, 2020

Equestrians trail are CLOSED at Shimek Lick Creek due to HEAVY RAIN.

 Wet Weather Trails are OPEN. 

 PROTECT THE DIRT TRAILS--PLEASE STAY OFF THEM!

 

 

 

 

Kathy

 

 

Editor

 

 

 

 

 



Trails Open 6-1-20

6/3/20 Note: Please be aware the Dirt trails while open are still wet in low areas. Some places have damage from riders and are still soggy.

The summer heat is upon us.  Please remember to hydrate your horse and yourself.  Take a break under many of the beautiful trees and rest.  Let the summer breeze (if you can find one) cool you down during your ride.

Here are a few things to consider while out enjoying your ride, hike, or drive.

Please be courteous to anyone you meet along your path.  Share a smile, a tip of the hat, or even a brief conversation while observing their and your social distance.  Be mindful of each others needs or concerns.

 It's been a long stressful few months of uncertain times.  Let's help everyone feel good about being out and enjoy your time in the forest.

May the sun shine fully in your face, may the breeze softly blow against your back, and may you find peace in your venture throughout the forest.

Happy Trails

Kathy

Editor 

Campground Updates from DNR 5-20-20

Update from DNR Shimek Technician Patrick Thomas and Forester John Byrd:

Lick Creek Equestrian Trails continue as Wet Weather Trails Only open. It is very wet at Shimek. Dirt trails closed.
Pit toilets to open in Shimek on Friday May 22, Bitternut and White Oak campgrounds will have one pit toilet open only all other pit toilets will reopen.

Forest visitors are reminded to avoid gatherings of groups larger than 10. DNR staff will continue to remind and educate visitors to practice physical distancing while enjoying the Forest. Visitors should also be aware of the following guidelines:

In campgrounds, only campers with overnight reservations will be allowed. NO CAMPGROUND VISITORS.
Only six overnight occupants per campsite will be allowed, unless immediate family contains more than six.
Communal picnic tables and grills are open for use at your own risk.

Reminder everyone: no visitors will be allowed in the campgrounds.

Day riders can use the day parking areas.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support of Iowa state forests and parks as we all work together to keep each other safe.

Kathy

Editor

DNR Trail closure 5-15-2020

 

 

Heavy Rain has closed the dirt trails at this time.

 

 

FOS MAY 19 Workday Cancelled due to COVID-19 Concerns.



The FOS Board of Directors has cancelled the May 19th Work Day scheduled at Shimek Forest's Lick Creek Unit. We thank everyone that was planning to come work and help our DNR staff with cleanup and maintenance that day. However, with concerns about COVID-19 and its transmission, we are choosing not to have any group gatherings, even out-door work days at this time.

We would encourage those of you going to Shimek to ride horses or hike, for birding or mushrooming or viewing wildflowers while social distancing to please take along a trash bag and help pickup cans/trash that have been tossed along the paths or into the woods.

 An hour doing this by everyone who goes out to the forest and we would have all that trash gone! If you do--be sure to wear disposable gloves when handling trash/bottles/cans. If you do, let us know--even send pics! Send to FOShimek@gmail.com.


 

 

 

 



We appreciate your help and will let you know when a FOS Group Work Day is scheduled.

  Stay safe. 

 

 

Kathy

 

Editor

Changes Regarding Campgrounds at Shimek

PLEASE CONTINUE TO USE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND PRECAUTIONS. 

CHANGES Regarding Campgrounds in Shimek and all state forests and parks effective May 8th.
Today, Governor Reynolds issued a new proclamation opening campgrounds in the state of Iowa, effective Friday, May 8, 2020.
The Iowa DNR will open state campgrounds at 8:00am on Friday, May 8 to campers with self-contained restrooms only. Self-contained is defined as a tent or pop-up camper with a portable toilet or an RV with a functioning, self-contained bathroom. Walk-in campers may begin registering at 8 am.
Friday, May 8 - Sunday, May 10: walk-in only, first come, first served basis
Monday, May, 11: reservations will go into effect
The DNR’s campground reservation system will begin accepting reservations starting Friday, May 8 at 9:00am.
All other reservations will continue as reserved beginning May 15, unless otherwise notified directly by the DNR. The DNR extends an apology to those that had reservations scheduled during the May 8 – May 14 time period. Those reservations will not be honored because refunds have already been issued and the transactions are complete.
While state parks have seen a great influx of visitors at our parks, it is expected to see the same at the campgrounds. Parks staff will be closely monitoring these areas to avoid gatherings of groups larger than 10. Staff presence throughout the parks and campgrounds will remind and educate visitors to continue physical distancing while enjoying some of Iowa’s most beautiful public places. Campers should also abide by the following guidelines:
Visitors will not be allowed in the campgrounds, only those occupying the campsites
Campfires at the individual campsites will be limited to campers occupying that campsite
Six occupants per campsite, unless immediate family contains more than six
Some pit latrines are now open in busier day use areas
All modern restrooms and shower buildings, including water fountains, remain closed
Communal picnic tables and grills are open for use at your own risk
Playgrounds, day-use rental lodges and shelter houses will remain closed
Cabins, yurts and shelter houses will remain closed
Visitors centers, nature centers and museums within state parks will remain closed
Beaches remain open, but will be monitored closely
Some campgrounds may be closed due to construction or maintenance issues, so please check the specific closure information below for each park before planning a camping trip.
For the latest closure information for state parks, campgrounds and trails, visit: www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures
The DNR highly recommends practicing physical distancing so that the parks and campgrounds remain open as a viable option for recreational opportunity. Campers should assume personal responsibility and abide by the guidelines set forth.
Iowa has 68 state parks and 4 state forests for visitors to enjoy with hiking trails, lake recreation and camping, to learn more visit: www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks or www.iowadnr.gov/Things-to-Do/Camping

Review the below Iowa State Parks alerts, closures, and important information.

 

 

Kathy

 

Editor

 

All equestrian trails are OPEN as of 5/1/20.

Update from Forester John Byrd and Technician Patrick Thomas.

All equestrian trails are OPEN as of 5/1/20.  Due to the expected high number of riders on the weekends, we are opening the Upper Day Use Parking area each day from 8:00 AM until 8 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Not open during the week and not at night).  The Lower Day Use Parking area will continue to remain open as it is now. There is still NO CAMPING in any campground at this time.  Please park your trailers in a manner that makes the day use areas conducive for use by other trailers. 

Effective May 1, 2020 one pit toilet in the Lower and Upper Campgrounds, along with Martin Pond will be open for use. These toilets will be unisex.

Here’s how you can help protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

• According to State of Iowa recommendations, limit your group size and stay at least 6 feet away from other visitors.
• If you have been sick in the last two weeks, please stay at home for your health and the safety of others.
• Avoid popular areas where people may congregate 
• Please maintain distance between you and other visitors according to guidelines and recommendations by health officials. Please take into consideration the health of others when spending time outdoors.  
• Pack extra hand sanitizer. Sanitizer will not be easily available due to limited supplies. Be sure and bring your own and use frequently.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support as we all work together to keep each other safe.

April 24, 2020 Iowa state parks extend closures into May The DNR is extending closures of campgrounds and other park facilities through May 14, 2020 to help protect the health of visitors and staff during the COVID-19 health emergency. State parks and forests remain open for day-use opportunities, but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. Facilities that will remain closed through May 14 include: Campgrounds, including youth and group camps Bathrooms, including pit latrines and port-a-potties Playgrounds  Cabins, shelters and lodges Visitor centers and museums All programs and events at state parks are cancelled or postponed through at least May 14, 2020. Watch for updates at iowadnr.gov Please be aware that as conditions change, so may policies on park visitation and overnight stays. The DNR will work with guests to cancel reservations affected by this extension. If you have reservations for the month of May after the closure dates and feel cancelling your stay is the safest choice, we will waive the cancellation fee for visits (cabins, campsites, lodges, shelters) with arrival dates through May 31, 2020. A transaction fee of $4.00 ($6.00 for reservations originally made by phone) will still apply. To cancel your May reservation, call (877) 427-2757. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and other hygiene products. We will keep you informed of any changes moving forward. Please visit the DNR's COVID-19 web page for more information about how COVID-19 is affecting DNR events, facilities and services. Thanks for your continued assistance.

No Additinals Campground Reservations through May 31, 2020

Update re COVID-19 Policies effective now for Shimek Forest Campgrounds (4/13/20).
We learned yesterday that people could not make new May campground reservations at Shimek, so Technician Patrick Thomas has obtained clarification for us. The DNR campgrounds are closed through April 30 as previously described. In addition, there is now a closure for ADDITIONAL RESERVATIONS for all campgrounds and all facilities through May 31. At this time, DNR is expecting to honor all May reservations already made, but does want to prevent any additional reservations from being made. As you can tell from the media, the situation with COVID in Iowa is changing rapidly so be patient, stay safe. Trails are still open for day use, with the lower campground day parking lot available. PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING - see the post on the FOS FB site about how to do that when riding or walking! We will let you know if there are any further changes.

Update from Forester John Byrd re Trails 4/8/20

      

Great News from Forester John Byrd as of 4/8/20!

ALL equestrian trails are open EXCEPT 2 short sections of dirt trail that are temporarily closed due to recent trail work. These are marked on the map attached. They are blocked with flagging and a sign. Please stay off these closed trail sections to let them settle. Riding these short sections now will cause much damage and undo the work we have done.
Please check the trail status before coming to ride as there are chances of rain in the forecast. The trail status message will be on our office phone at 319-878-3811. Thank you for your cooperation--enjoy riding. (Reminder: Campgrounds and toilets remain closed.)

John Byrd
Shimek Forester

 

All Shimek Campgrounds CLOSED immediately

ALERT!!! ALL SHIMEK FOREST CAMPGROUNDS ARE NOW CLOSED

 Per the Governor's orders this morning, all DNR campgrounds are closed immediately and will stay closed at least until the end of April. At Shimek, the campground drive through roads are blocked. Toilets are locked shut. The DAY PARKING Lot on the way to the Lower Campground is OPEN. Day riders are welcome to come ride. The Wet Weather Trails are open. Day hikers are welcome. Please abide by the social distancing guidelines from CDC. (Information provided by Patrick Thomas, DNR Technician) Please share this information with all the campers and riders you know!

Please stay safe everyone! 

Kathy

Editor

Tidbits from the Friends of Shimek Annual Banquet 2020

As I sit here thinking about all the uncertainties the COVID - 19 has brought into play ,  I realize the many joys and blessings we have been giving.  I would like to reflect on these positive moments that has touched our lives in so many ways.

Friends of Shimek is composed of an outstanding group of volunteers that give so much of themselves to better Shimek Forest for all to enjoy.  It is selfless act of kindness given by so many devoted people who care deeply about preserving our trails for many years to come.  Let's take a look at the accomplishments this past year.

The Bennett Volunteers of the Year Award for 2019 was presented to

Denise & Gary Schieffer.

 



 
 

Shown are Denise Schieffer, Gary Schieffer, Bob Achenbach, John Bennett and Ann Bennett. The Schieffers were presented with a certificate of appreciation and the beautiful spalted elm hand turned bowl made by Bob Achenbach that Denise is holding.

 

 

FOS Past-President Ann Bennett was honored by the Board of Directors

 



Ann has served nine years on the Board and her service as founding President. Bonnie Moothart presented her with a letter of appreciation for the leadership she provided and the inspiration she gives to others. She was also presented with a winter vest with a custom made Friends of Shimek Hero patch , as well as a photo album of her nine years with FOS. She will continue to volunteer with FOS but she is no longer serving on the Board.



　Friends of Shimek expressed their appreciation to Forester Byrd

He was given an award at the March 7th Dinner for his vision of the Wet Weather Trail when FOS was formed in 2011. FOS also thanked him for the leadership and hard work that he and his forest crew have put into making the Wet Weather Trail a reality for us to enjoy in all but the worst of weather. If you missed the dinner, and have read the report he submitted here--you can send John a Thank You or an "Atta-boy!" to john.byrd@dnr.iowa.gov.

 

 

 

 

 

Judy and Art Duke donated a vintage saddle for FOS fundraiser.

 

FOS Board member Bonnie Moothart presented Judy Duke with FOS cups in appreciation of the donation by her and Art Duke of a fine vintage saddle for the November Fundraiser. It was the highest valued item sold! Over $4,100 was raised at the fundraiser thanks to the help of many people. The cups were donated by Cassie Graber.





Volunteer Recognition

 



FOS recognized 31 volunteers on March 7th. Jo Watson, Volunteer Hours Coordinator, is shown providing each volunteer present at the dinner with a Thank You card and a green FOS pen as a token of our appreciation for their hours of time working to raise money and working to improve Shimek trails and campgrounds.







FOS is always looking for new enthusiastic volunteers help with or continue the betterment of the forest.  We need to preserve this beautiful land that has been bestowed to us to enjoy.  It is not just for people to ride horses on the many trails, but for EVERYONE to enjoy.  There is so much beauty to be found within the forest walls.  Please consider joining us for a work day, trail ride, hiking, fishing, or just sitting on a picnic table soaking in the sun.  Thank you for being a part of Shimek!

May the trails your ride or hike be smooth, May the sun shine fully in your face, and May you find the peace and tranquility only found in the quietness of the forest.

Happy Trails

Kathy
Editor.

COVID_19 Response in IA State Forests as of 3/27/20

 

Update received today-3/27/20: REVISED AT NOON:::::
Forest not closed to public but Bring your own porta-potties!!

"Due to Covid19, ALL pit toilets throughout Shimek Forest are temporarily closed. All toilet facilities at all state parks and forests are now closed. Please check these sites frequently for the latest closures, postponements and updates:
https://www.iowadnr.gov/events

https://www.iowadnr.gov/Pla…/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures

 Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support as we all work together to keep each other safe."

Patrick Thomas, DNR Technician at Shimek
 

Friends Update on Campgrounds

Update from Shimek DNR Technician Patrick Thomas: Shimek campgrounds 2019 and Current COVID-19 Guidance…….

 

 

At the Friends of Shimek Volunteer Recognition dinner held shortly before COVID-19 arrived in Iowa, I spoke of the past years work of DNR staff and FOS as well as activities in the campgrounds.

 

 

 

 

 In summary: We had 1,454 individuals stay in the Shimek campgrounds, which is slightly up from la...st year. They came from 10 states. (Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Wisconsin)
FOS had three workdays scheduled however wet weather only permitted us to get together July 10th. Attending were twenty-one Friends of Shimek volunteers, the DNR full time employees include Ben Hassman, Heath Fraise, Eric Martin and myself, along with our seasonal staff Ross O’Day and Susan Meinhardt. The group was able to clear trails from downed trees, pick up litter, replace a hitching rail, clean fire pits, and paint the insides of all the Lick Creek unit pit toilets and two of the outsides.
The FOS obtained 10 gallons of paint thanks to a Vogel Paint grant through Paint Iowa Beautiful. We will use the paint up this year, finishing painting pit toilets in the other campgrounds and posts.
The hydrant at the Upper Campground was replaced due to damage. The hydrant was bent and finally developed a leak. Following current specs set for DNR, a new Woodford Sanitary Yard Hydrant Model S3 was installed. It is designed for use anywhere potable water is located. The hydrant is completely sealed to prevent surface and ground water from entering reservoir or service line. This hydrant protects users from any contamination entering into the hydrant from above ground or below. An anonoymus donor provided funds to replace the hydrant.
Dan Hull who built the trail and bridge system around Black Oak Lake as an eagle scout project in the late 1980’s shared his experience in that project with me and shared a photo album about that major construction project with the FOS, which is posted on their FB page. I used this information to help prepare for the First Day Hike on Jan. 1, 2020. We hope to meet this summer to discuss more about the trail.
The DNR crew spread rock on all of the camp pads throughout the four campgrounds to level and widen them.

 The State DNR office has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with guidance for the operation of all park and forest facilities. This guidance is in accordance with CDC guidelines and state recommendations pertaining to COVID-19.
At this point, Shimek State Forest campgrounds are open as are all Iowa State Parks. Our highest priority is the health and well-being of our visitors, volunteers and employees. During this time, we remain diligent in taking steps to make your visit as safe and enjoyable as possible. We are implementing additional cleaning procedures, according to CDC guidelines, such as more stringent and frequent cleaning of public areas.
Please check these sites frequently for the latest closures, postponements and updates: https://www.iowadnr.gov/events https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures
Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support as we all work together to keep each other safe.

Thank you,
Patrick Thomas
DNR Technician

 

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Kathy

Editor