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

 

Published by

 

Kathy

Editor

Friends Annual Dinner Gathering 2020

The Friends of Shimek's annual banquet was loaded with interesting information and updates.  Forester John Byrd had a lot of information about the logging operation currently being done in the Lick Creek Unit.



Update from Forester John Byrd on What is Happening in Shimek Forest....... Let's see what was or is going on in the forest!

Spring is getting closer and that means more people will be out and about in the forest. As of March 5th, the DNR Shimek Forest crew had cleared down trees from the over 6 miles of the Lick Creek Wet Weather Trail System. We are still having some very windy days, though, so please use caution when riding or hiking. We'll be clearing any down trees as they are found throughout the year.

At the Friends Volunteer Recognition Dinner on March 7th , I reported on other Lick Creek Projects that the DNR Shimek Forest crew Ben Hassman, Heath Fraise, Eric Martin and I have been hard at work on this past year. That included the following:
* A new 0.6 mile of trail in the forest was constructed by our crew to tie together two sections of the Wet Weather Trail so that riders could stay off the highway right -of-way, making for a much safer ride.
*Erosion problems in the Wet Weather Trails caused by heavy rains of the previous winter were all corrected by the crew . Both projects used rock funded by the Lee County Charitable Fund and the Friends of Shimek.
*We are now re-rocking the entire Wet Weather Trail thanks to a grant from The William M and Donna J Hoaglin Foundation. That will be completed later this year.
In addition to those trail projects, forest management practices have kept us busy all winter. Our major forest management unit was the Keosauqua Unit. It is unique in that it borders both Lacey-Keosauqua State Park and Lake Sugema Wildlife Management Area which is all managed by the Iowa DNR. We have also had a couple of forest management projects in the Lick Creek Unit. A contractor cut understory trees out of a few areas that you will see as you ride trails. There was also a clear cut timber harvest along a trail section. This timber harvest is an exciting time in forest management. It is a regeneration clear cut harvest. The overstory trees were removed in order to let the oak currently regenerating start to capture the site. Young oak seedlings will not grow and thrive in dense shade. Pre harvest inventory indicated 2,000-7,000 oak seedlings per acre! This will ensure that our next generation of Iowans will be able to enjoy oak on this site.

Kathy

Editor