Friends of Stone Park

Broken Toe Trail Run/Walk 2011

2011-10-19T15:36:00.005-05:00

The Broken Toe Trail Run/Walk was held on October 1st at Stone State Park. There were 93 runners and walkers that took to the trails on a crisp fall morning. The event was organized by the Friends of Stone Park, Missouri River Runners, and Morningside College. The primary goal of the event is to promote health, fitness, and appreciation of natural resources in Siouxland. Proceeds from the event benefit Stone State Park.

The Friends of Stone Park would like to thank the following sponsors of this year's event: Albrecht Cycle, Absolute Screen Art, Chesterman Co., Daily Grind, Fareway, Gelita, Just Relax, Inc., Morningside College, Missouri River Runners, Peak Performance, and St. Luke's Iowa Health System.

New Shelter Coming to Stone Park.

2011-08-13T21:26:00.003-05:00

The Friends of Stone Park have been partnering with several local businesses and non-profit groups to build a new shelter in Pammel Valley. Construction began in late May and the shelter is expected to be ready for use by Labor Day.

L&L Builders helped the Friends build the shelter, without their expertise, this project could not have been possible. The Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) helped finance the project, along with the Rotary Club, and an Iowa State Park Volunteer Support Grant. Friends members provided assistance with removing the old shelter and raising project funds.

The new shelter is more accessible to people of all abilities. Visitors can easily walk to the new shelter and carry their picnic supplies. We hope to add a large bbq grill, benches, and a sand volleyball court in the area of the new shelter.

Old Trail to Mt. Lucia

2011-05-10T15:09:00.002-05:00

An old trail sign to Mt. Lucia was recently discovered near the Park Ranger's residence. The sign was less than 30 yards from the park road. Seasonal park employee Erik Lindsay is shown next to the old sign. At this point, the park staff does not know the exact route of the original trail, or how long ago the trail was abandoned. The sign was still mounted to the original post, but obscured by vegetation which had grown up around it. The sign was taken down for safe-keeping.

Prescribed Fire Benefits the Park

2011-04-15T15:38:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday, April 13th a prescribed fire was sucessfully completed at Stone State Park. A total of 35 acres were burned with the help of wildland firefighters from the region. Fire benefits the park by controling invasive plants as well as returning nutrients to the soil. Five other fires are planned for this spring. The goal is to burn 120 acres by the middle of May.

If you are interested in joining us on a fire, please visit the fire programs webpage of the DNR forestry bureau at http://www.iowadnr.gov/. To participate, you need to take S-130/190 training. You can e-mail me for more information about this training or if you have any questions about Stone Park's fire program stone@dnr.iowa.gov

Park Deer Control Discussion

2011-02-09T10:19:00.002-06:00

Options to Control Deer Herd in Stone State Park Topic of Public Meeting

SIOUX CITY – Controlling the deer population at Stone State Park will be the topic of a public meeting on February 24, when staff with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources will discuss potential options and what has been done at other parks.
The meeting will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the Gleeson Meeting Room, Wilbur Aalfs Main Library, 529 Pierce St., in Sioux City. Topics for discussion include identifying park deer issues, discussing possible means of control, special hunts in other state parks and to receive public input on the issue.

Media Contact: Kevin Pape, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Park Ranger, Stone State Park, 712-255-4698.

Friends Plan for a new Park Shelter

2011-02-02T15:32:00.004-06:00

The Friends of Stone Park are making plans to replace a picnic shelter this year. The shelter in Pammel Valley was damaged by a storm a couple of years ago. The original shelter was constructed in 1941 by the Rotary Club. At that time, the area was part of the boy scout Camp Kellogg. The scout camp closed in the early 70's and became a part of Stone Park.

The Friends took down the old shelter roof and beams but salvaged most of the materials. The rock wall and Rotary Club plaque were left intact. The plans are to add a fire ring and park benches at the site of the old shelter.

The group applied for a State Parks Volunteer Support grant. The Friends were awarded a $25,000 grant to help build a new larger shelter nearby. The new shelter will have electrical service and be more accessible for park visitors. The total cost of the project is estimated at $45,000.

Please contact the Friends of Stone Park if you can assist with this project with cash, donation of time or in-kind services. The Friends are looking for help protecting the old wall, pouring the footings for the new shelter, running electrical service, and adding ammenities to the area. The plans are to have the new shelter built by this summer.

Winter Solitude at the Park

2011-01-11T09:02:00.004-06:00

Do you stop visiting the park after the the snow starts flying? Many people prefer to stay inside when the winter wind blows, but you may be missing some of the most beautiful and quiet times in the park.

Wildlife are often more approachable in the winter and the chances of seeing turkeys, owls, and deer are good. Fresh signs of wildlife are everywhere. Winter is the prime time to see Bald Eagles hunting in open water on the Big Sioux or flying overhead.

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are all poplular activities when we have good snow cover. Snowmobiles have to be currently registered and can ride on trails marked with the snowmobile symbol. Snowmobiles also are permitted on the unplowed park roads.

The park takes on a whole new character in the winter. You can see the landforms that are hidden during the growing season. Trees creak and crack in the winter winds. The solitude can be good for the soul.

Struggle to the Death

2010-11-01T15:45:00.002-05:00

It is annual event that has been going on since members of the deer family have been on this earth. During the rut, white-tail deer bucks battle one another for the opportunity to mate. On occasion the deer's antlers become entangled and can result in the injury or death of the warriors.

Last Friday I received a call from a neighbor to the south of the park. He had found these two bucks locked together in death, not more than 100 yards from his house and very close to the park border. The antlers of the buck on the right had pierced the neck of the buck on the left. The second buck faced a slow agonizing death with his foe still attached.

Broken Toe Run 2010, a Success

2010-10-10T12:34:00.007-05:00

   The Friends of Stone Park's annual run/walk through Stone State Park drew almost 120 participants on a perfect October morning this year.

   President Zach Cwirka, Joe Mohrhauser and Ranger Kevin Pape, pictured above riding in the park utility vehicle, work to ensure a successful event.

   Proceeds from the event go to trail improvements. Using last year's race proceeds, hundreds of feet of Geo-Grid and white rock was applied to some of the more heavily worn trails on the 4.5 mile run.

Orchid Blooming in Stone State Park

2010-09-10T13:38:00.003-05:00

A rare Great Plains Lady's Tresses Orchid blooms in late summer at Stone State Park. The latin name of the plant describes the flower "Spiranthes Magnicomporum". Although the plant is only 3-4" tall, if you look closely, you can see the flowers are arranged in a spiral around the stem. Only one plant has been found in one location at the park. The plant can also be found at Sioux City Prairie.

Get out and discover the beauty of Iowa's prairies during Iowa Prairie Week, September 12-18th. There are several special hikes and talks planned in the Sioux City area to celebrate Iowa's Prairie Heritage.

Remember it is illegal to remove flowering plants from a park or preserve. Most of Iowa's prairie heritage has been destroyed. Take a photograph, but leave the plant for others to enjoy.

Just a Day at the Beach

2010-08-21T21:57:00.007-05:00

With all the hot & humid days we've had this summer, it'd be nice to spend a day at the beach... and if it were 90 million years ago, we'd be in luck! During the late Cretaceous period (90 mil. years ago), the North American continent was split by a shallow inland sea and western Iowa was right on the edge.

If you're skeptical , take a walk along the shale & limestone bedrock outcrops, near the western entrance and also throughout the park. If you look closely among the piles of rock that have broken from the bedrock, you'll find dozens of clams! This fossil clam (known as Inoceramus) is abundantly found in the thinly bedded limestone of Cretaceous age that are found close to the land surface in the northern Loess Hills; Stone Park is a great place to view them!

If you're interested in geology, here are the names of the formations visible at the western entrance of Stone Park: At the top of the bedrock exposure, the Greenhorn Formation of Cretaceous age can be seen; the strata below include shale and thin limestones of the Graneros Formation, and below that are the sandstones of the Dakota Formation.

For more information, check the Iowa DNR's webpage.

Turtle Near Park East Entrance

2010-08-21T18:38:00.000-05:00

B. Hoversten found this turtle about 10 Aug 10 near the east entrance of Stone Park and put it in the stream under Greg's driveway. It was aprox 16inches across and tried to bite me when I picked it up. Bernie H.

STATE PARKS TRAILS CHALLENGE RUNNERS

2010-08-17T14:29:00.000-05:00

By Joe Wilkinson

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Building endurance can be an uphill battle for serious runners. But it doesn’t have to be round and round the track...or along lonely county blacktops. Throw in a few park trails and you get real hills...and various surfaces for a different and scenic workout.

Brogan Austin won the Iowa high school Class 3A cross country meet last fall, after logging 100 of his 518 summer training miles on the hills and bluffs of Ledges State Park. The Boone senior continued his hill climbs and won the 3200 and 1600 meter runs at the 2010 state track meet, in May.

He’s on to something that is far from a well kept secret. If there is a park trail in the vicinity...somebody is running it. At Lake Macbride State Park, west of Solon, there’s a steady stream of traffic. “It gets our athletes off the roads and to a softer surface,” notes Emy Williams, cross country coach at Solon High School. Her teams use it regularly; as do athletes from Prairie High School, the University of Iowa, Cornell and Coe Colleges.

A steep hill near the trailhead at the park’s north entrance challenges runners and bicyclists. From there, a crushed limestone trail winds five miles east to the Solon Nature and Recreation Area. Most of the route is flat; perfect for racking up miles, or for a family stroll. As you approach Solon, a couple rolling inclines challenge runners. “It’s the versatility. The terrain is similar to most cross country courses,” compares Williams. As I walked it Monday morning, five of her runners passed me. Earlier in the month, her boys and girls teams had summer camp there.

Throw in the 1.5 mile loop from the beach to the Macbride dam and you have a tree-shaded bonus. In all, there are about 20 miles of trails along the lake or through the parks’ steep, wooded terrain. Jog across the dam, and pick your way across the rocky spillway and you have wooded hillsides and hard dirt trails pointing toward the University of Iowa’s Macbride Field campus.

You can even do your running for college credit. Through the University of Iowa’s Lifetime Leisure Studies program, Paul Sueppel offers an eight-week, one credit hour class on Trail Running. “I’m always telling them to keep their feet underneath their body; short, quick steps,” advises Sueppel. “(Other than that), it’s good posture, body up, head up. You need to retain your balance, especially going downhill. Watch for objects lying ahead.”

With any sport, specialized equipment makes a difference. A good pair of trail running shoes does not resemble ‘stock’ Nikes, adidas or Sauconys. With trail running growing by leaps and bounds (literally) most full service shoe departments or running stores now stock trail shoes. “The thing to look for is big lugs on the bottom...and good ankle support,” urges Sueppel. He says a new generation of trail shoes features just a low cushion; almost barefoot running, but with a little protection.

Lots of flat land runners get an outdoor education in a hurry, in state parks. Sueppel’s class meets twice a week for eight weeks. With the Coralville Reservoir, Iowa River and Lake Macbride, there is a variety of terrain; Squire Point, Sugar Bottom recreation area...as well as the Solon to Macbride trail. “It’s fantastic; the kids from out of state especially--who think Iowa is flat,” notes Sueppel. “It gives them an idea of Iowa’s landscape.”

Many state park trails come with a plan. Brogan Austin took advantage of the familiar ‘box’ step design at Ledges. “The steps are designed with the same ‘rise’ in each one,” explains Angela Corio, from the DNR parks bureau. “You know each step is going to rise six inches. You can focus on the view, instead of tree roots and irregular terrain. They are also built for long term erosion control.”

The ‘tread’; the number of steps you take on each has a purpose, too. Some allow one footfall. Every once in awhile, though; a longer one requires two. “That way, you are not always leading uphill with the same leg. You have to change,” explains Corio.

It’s no coincidence that many of Iowa’s state parks have steep topography. In the first few decades of the 1900s--many were gifts to the state, or relatively cheap purchases because no one could farm them! Many of the resulting trails offer jaw-dropping beautiful vistas, as well as a great workout.

But it’s not just the family stroll or heavy-duty hikers who take advantage. Some park users go full throttle. “Surprisingly, we get quite a few runners; Briar Cliff and Morningside Colleges and area high schools come out regularly,” says Park Ranger Kevin Pape, about the steep bluffs of Stone State Park, at Sioux City. “The Missouri River Runners Club sponsors its Broken Toe Trail Run here. We do see our regulars out here.”

Some are far enough away from the nearest town that it’s a workout just to get to them. That trims the number of runners...but some still show. “We see our regulars. The trails are their network. They create their own routes,” says Matt Tschirgi, park manager at Pikes Peak State Park, high above the Mississippi River near Marquette and McGregor.

Besides the break from looking at street traffic or the same striped track surface lap after lap, many runners come for the view...as well as the softer, kind-to-the-legs surface of many state parks.

Sunday's Storm

2010-08-10T23:10:00.017-05:00

Sunday's storm did quite a number on the park. With 60 m.p.h. winds, it took down many trees. For the past two days, Ranger Pape & I have been busy clearing trees that have fallen across the roads. Today, we were fortunate to have help from two other DNR employees: Eric, from Black Hawk State Park, and John, from Beed's Lake.

However, there is still plenty of work to be done! Although the roads are cleared, there are still trees & branches down in the picnic areas. We also have yet to see the damage on the trails.

At first we thought all the buildings had been spared, but we soon discovered Monday that a large hackberry had split and fallen on Cabin #1. Fortunately, no one had been staying in the cabin that night. It was quite a fall! The metal rims on the lighting fixture over the table inside the cabin were all shaken about from the crash. Needless to say, we had to cancel Monday night's reservation...

The buckthorn/honeysuckle volunteer cutting project is still on for this Saturday, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., however we may also take some time to clean up from the storm. There are still many stray branches strew about the park.

(With a lot of patience, I managed to capture a picture of a lightning strike at my home during Sunday night's storm!)

Hope to see you Saturday!
Bethany

Volunteers needed for woody plant control

2010-08-03T09:28:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!

This is Bethany, the summer intern at Stone Park. I would like to get a group together to help cut buckthorns & honeysuckle at the park; they are non-native, invasive species. If you are free on Saturday, August 14 from 8 am - 11, we would love your help sawing/lopping/spraying these unwanted plants. We will supply all the needed tools, and I will be sure to have some refreshments! All you will need is a pair of long pants, comfortable shoes and a pair of work gloves.

We'll meet at the parking lot across from the park office at 8 a.m. on Saturday the 14th. Thank you & hope to see you there!
Bethany Murphy

Thunderhead over Stone Park

2010-07-31T17:58:00.003-05:00

Thunderheads over Stone Park have been a common occurence this summer. Heavy rains result in more picnics being washed out and more time spent mowing grass. Stone Park has faired much better than other state parks in Iowa. Several parks have experienced flooding and closing of facilities. We have had only minor trail washouts and a few fallen limbs.

A few of our staff helped out recently at Gull Point State Park. Gull Point is located on Okoboji where numerous trees were damaged from a sudden storm.

Today at Stone Park

2010-07-26T19:17:00.007-05:00

While waiting for the grass to dry this morning for mowing, I snapped some pictures at the park. The prairie grass is getting awfully tall!

There are still plenty of flowers blooming, too.

Unfortunately, a storm blew in around noon, putting photos (and mowing) on hold...

Pleased to Meet You!

2010-07-12T23:11:00.004-05:00

This is Bethany here; I'm interning this summer here at Stone State Park! I just finished my junior year at the University of Iowa, majoring in Geoscience and International Studies. I've been working at the park since June and have enjoyed getting to know the land. I'm fascinated by the earth sciences, and love hiking, running & traveling. Although I grew up in Connecticut, my mother is from Hinton, so I've been visiting Stone Park since I was a child. This past fall semester, I was able to came home from school to run in the Broken Toe Trail Run; I even won my age group! (full disclosure: I may have been the only runner in my age group...) I'm excited to have the opportunity to give back a little to the park!
I volunteered this past Spring Break at Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek, Iowa. I was able to learn about their efforts to restore native prairie and even got to spend some time clearing hillsides, even though it was still quite frosty out! It was a wonderful experience, and Mr. Redmond (who helped guide the trip) recommended that I intern at Stone Park this summer. I'm glad I took his suggestion! I look forward to learning more about the park and lending a hand in caring for the land.
Pleased to meet you all!
Bethany M.

Recent Bird Sightings

2010-05-21T02:43:00.002-05:00

Monday, 17 May, 2010, Stone State Park, Woodbury County, Iowa

1 Summer Tanager (beautiful adult male near Turtle Lake restroom)- pictured right, by Paul Roisen

1 Scarlet Tanager ( beautiful adult male at Turtle Lake trail area)

1 Yellow-throated Vireo

1 Broad-winged Hawk

1 Northern Parula (at the other shelter area before you get to Turtle Lake parking-also a pair of Scarlet Tanagers there)

Jerry V.

Many Hands Make Light Work!

2010-05-01T12:18:00.004-05:00

Perfect Spring weather and a large turn-out made the Friends of Stone Park/ Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center Spring Clean-up a big success on May Day 2010.

The two miles of Highway 12, from Riverside to the Stone Park entrance, have never looked more pristine. We made our little corner of the world a better place today!

Morel-Hunting Time is Here

2010-04-27T09:51:00.000-05:00

The Morel mushrooms are out and ready for picking. The first Morels were found 10 days ago, but there are more waiting to be found. Morel mushrooms are one of the few wild edibles that the public is allowed to remove from the park. Walnuts, acorns, and wild raspberrys can also be collected in State Parks. The season is short, so get out in the park and find your trophies today!

Letter from Stone Park Neighbor and Avid Equestrian

2010-04-21T10:38:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let you know that we had our first of 2010 ride through the park's trails yesterday afternoon. The trail work done last year looks fabulous, and the trails are in great condition.

Congratulations to you, Kevin, for your work once again to bring the park trails back into good repair. Kudos to all that helped you, either through volunteering to work with the trail crews, supplying equipment or materials, or contributing cash for the trail work done.

We were pleased to see the first Spring flowers along the trails blooming.

Thanks, Kevin, and all those responsible for trail work done in 2009 and before.

Karen Q.

Garlic Mustard, turn a forest pest into tasty pesto...

2010-04-19T08:52:00.000-05:00

Garlic mustard is an invasive plant found in Stone Park. Help eradicate this invasive plant by serving it for supper tonight!

   Garlic mustard leaves can be eaten fresh in salads or used in any recipe calling for mustard greens. Ensure the plants are clean and free of any chemical treatments. Plants may be dried or sautéed to add spice to any favorite recipes. Do not replant this invasive into your herb gardens. There is plenty to go around and many opportunities in Stone Park for collecting.
   Bon appétit!

Garlic Mustard Pesto and Pasta
Makes 4 cups
4 cloves garlic
3 tablespoons garlic mustard taproots
3/4 cup parsley
1 cup garlic mustard leaves
1 1/2 cups basil leaves
1 1/2 cups olives
2 cups walnuts or 3/4 cup pine nuts
1 1/4 cups olive oil (or as needed)
2 cups grated Parmesan

In food processor:
1. chop garlic and garlic mustard roots
2. add parsley, garlic, garlic mustard leaves and basil and chop
3. add nuts and chop coarsely
4. add olive oil and process until you've created a coarse paste. Add to cooked pasta and toss well.

   Garlic mustard was brought from Europe in the 1800s for culinary and medicinal purposes. In the wild this invasive species can quickly dominate the forest floor choking out wildflowers ferns and trees seedlings. High in vitamins a and C., the plant smells like garlic and resembles mustard plant or Creeping Charlie. While most animals dislike the taste, cooks are rediscovering its culinary roots and are biting back.
   For reclaiming the woods, the best control method is to pull and dispose of the plants prior to seed production.

   Collecting tips:
   April through June, pull the plant and its entire roots. Searches semi-shaded forests, especially along trails. Plant parts have a garlic like order when crushed. Discard uneaten portions in the garbage to help prevent the plant from spreading.
   As one plant can produce hundreds of seeds that remain viable up to five years, once seeds start shedding, stay away from the plant to help minimize spreading.

Reprinted from Iowa Outdoors Magazine, May/June 2010

Today in Stone Park

2010-04-13T15:22:00.000-05:00

Today in Stone Park

2010-04-12T15:33:00.000-05:00

The Memorial Mile

2010-04-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

Following World War I the City created, "The Memorial Mile".
Memorial Drive, as it is known today, is the mile long road leading to the gates of Stone Park. It was named to honor the 114 Sioux Citians who died in World War I. One hundred fourteen Elm Trees, one for each Sioux Citian who died, were planted along Memorial Drive sometime in the 1920's.

Today

circa 1920

Youth Group Camping Available

2010-04-06T16:03:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a place to camp with an organized youth group, check out Stone Park. Chaperoned youth groups can reserve the Coon Hollow Youth Group Camping Area through the Iowa DNR website. Groups can camp for only $15 per night for the entire group. The area is located just north of the regular campground and features a beautiful stone fire ring with water nearby.

Dakota Point

2010-04-05T21:39:00.000-05:00

Am surprised to see Dakota Point Shelter gone. Sad

The snow is gone!

2010-03-31T23:38:00.001-05:00

Dakota Point Shelter, Then and Now

2010-03-31T23:02:00.000-05:00

1960

March 31, 2010

The block in the upper right-hand area of today's picture matches that in the 1960 picture.

Red-breasted Nuthatch at feeder near Stone Park

2010-03-27T07:02:00.000-05:00

Spring Clean-up May 1, 2010

2010-03-25T17:22:00.000-05:00

   The Friends of Stone Park and the Nature Center have planned a Spring Clean-up for Stone Park and Highway 12 from Riverside to the west entrance on May 1 from 9 AM to 11 AM. Meet at the entrance to the Nature Center.
   May Day 2010 can be your opportunity to make our little corner of the world a better place!
   For more information contact Greg Hoversten, 251-0542 or Jim Henning, 258-0838.

Meeting Minutes 2-16-2010

2010-03-21T12:44:00.001-05:00

Friends of Stone Park
Meeting Minutes
2-16-2010

Present: Zac and Chris Chwirka, Ally Garthright, Bob and Phyllis Nickolson, Bernie Hoversten, Dale Brumm, Kevin Pape, Jim Redmond, Mike Moore, and Warren Dunkle.
Memorial Mile:
Zac and Ally have been talking with the city to see about restoring this project. Several avenues still to be looked into at this point. One of the next steps is to speak with the landowners along the way and see if they would support this project. Instead of the original Elms being planted again we are looking at a smaller tree such as the Prairiefire crabapple.
Botany:
A botanist from the IA DNR contacted Kevin and advised he has found information about a previous botanist named Hayden that discovered a plant in Stone Park in 1936 that is now on the endangered species list. The original plant was documented by Hayden as growing by a school house, which is believed to have been the Boys of ’68 building. Kevin advised this plant still grows in the park and is located in the newly acquired addition of the park just above Hwy 12 by Riverside.
Rezoning Issue:
On February 2, 2010 an article appeared in the Sioux City Journal about the rezoning of a section below the park on Hwy 12 right at the edge of Riverside. The city is being asked to rezone this section of land to be light commercial. A portion of the park is directly above this section of land. Concerns were raised about this affecting the aspects of the land along this area if it is changed to light industrial and what may occur in the future. Planning and Zoning are holding a meeting on March 9, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. Members from Friends are encouraged to attend and voice their concern. A motion was made to have the Friends speak. The motion carried by members present and Zac Chwirka will speak on behalf of the Friends group. The meeting was not held on Feb. 23rd.
Earth Fest:
Earth Fest will take place at Morningside College in the Greenspace on April 10th, 2010, rain or shine, from Noon until Dark. This is a free event and people are encouraged to bring picnics and blankets and enjoy the day of music and friendship. Several local bands and talent will be entertaining all through the day.
Jim Redmond and Mike Moore requested a monetary donation from the Friends to help defray the costs of sound and stage equipment. A motion was made to donate $200.00. The motion carried. The Friends will be setting up a table with Friends information and t-shirts for sale. Please stop by and visit!

Leave A Legacy Program:
Kevin suggested that the Friends group possibly look into what it takes to be placed on the Leave A Legacy Program. Chris volunteered to check it out.

Ranger Report:
They have been working on the Eco-System Management plan. They are investigating many options and possible plans.
The oldest Bur Oak tree in the park is from approximately 1796. Not many new oaks are growing due to the lack of areas with full sun. A future plan may include some clear cuttings and planting in areas to reestablish the Bur Oak population. This is discussion and no plans are under way at this time.

Hope to see you at the next meeting on April 13th, 2010, 7:00 p.m., at Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center. Please spread the word and come and see what we are about. You do not have to be a member to attend.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kevin Pape
Park Ranger
Stone State Park
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
(712) 255-4698

the Friends of Stone Park

2010-03-21T12:31:00.000-05:00

Park News

2010-03-21T12:14:00.001-05:00

It has been confirmed that a Woodcock nested in the park last Spring. We are still on the lookout for a Wood thrush.

IBA designation of Stone Park by The Audubon Society is still a possibility.

73 acres near Mt. Lucia has been burned. There was an addition 20 acres that needed burning but weather conditions did not cooperate. Ranger Pape has been assisting with other burns in the area.

Cabin and shelter reservations

2010-03-21T12:11:00.001-05:00

Cabin and shelter reservations can be made at https://eservices.iowa.gov/iowaparks/ .

Campground Improvement Project Completed

2010-03-21T12:09:00.001-05:00

Thanks to support from Regina Roth, John Gleeson, Jolly Time Popcorn, L & L Builders and numerous community supporters, our Campground Improvement Project has been totally funded.

The project includes construction of two log cabins, a separate youth campground and renovation of the original campground. Construction of the cabins and the youth campground have been completed. $137,000 from the Iowa Values Fund spearheaded the local match fundraising campaign.

No financial contributions went to administration, consultants or project design. 100% of the money donated to our campground improvement project went to construction. Call Greg Hoversten, Steering Committee Chairman at 251-0542 for more information.

The renovation of the existing campground is completed. The old shower building was demolished and a new facility has been constructed. Upgrading of improvements as well as landscaping has also been completed.

Minutes- December 2009

2009-12-01T08:39:00.000-06:00

December 2009

Attendees:

  Greg Hoversten, Kevin Pape, Bernie Hoversten, Mike Moore, Jim Redmond and Doris Swanson.

“Happy New Year!”   Another year of fun in the park.

Ranger Update:

·       Tree clearing for four days off of Malloy Road. Were able to grind the cedar trees for later use.

·       Forestry and Parks budget has been cut could be 20%. Using 30 people (seasonal) for 50 parks.

·       Iowa Parks foundation may fund seasonal workers. Requires $6000.00 per worker.

·       Volunteers will need a waiver to sign. Workmen’s comp doesn’t apply to volunteers any longer.

·       Sierra club to celebrate 40 year anniversary on April 17, 2010 at Morningside College.

·       We received a total of cash and in-kind donations of $16,018 for trails. Approximately $13,049.00 has been spent on trail improvements.

·       To repair the shelter could cost up to $25,000.00. Rotary Club has grants we can apply for.

·       University of Iowa Sierra Club to work in the Loess Hills over Spring Break in March. Would be a service trip.

Next Meeting: January 19, 2010   Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center 7:00 p.m.

Kevin Pape
Park Ranger
Stone State Park
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
(712) 255-4698

Minutes- November 2009

2009-11-01T09:01:00.000-06:00

Minutes- November 2009

Friends of Stone Park
November2009 Attendees:    Kevin Pape, Michael Moore, Bernie Hoversten, Warren Dunkle, Chris Poeckes and Doris Swanson.
Ranger Update: ·       Due to weather conditions the trail run used the roads instead of trails. All went well! ·       Kevin is weatherizing the equipment for winter.·       Sprayed for garlic mustard and had a controlled burn.
New Business:  ·       Chris Poeckes presented a check form the Missouri Runners Club.·       Brent Copple is looking for volunteers for Oct.2, 2010 for the Broken Toe Run. Mark your calendar if you can help out.·       Rotary interested in redoing the shelter. They need an estimate of damage and electricity should be included.·       Kevin is required to take five (5) furlough days due to budget cuts.

Next Meeting: December 15, 2009    Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center 7:00 p.m.

Kevin PapePark RangerStone State ParkIowa Department of Natural Resources(712) 255-4698

Minutes- October 2009

2009-10-01T09:04:00.000-05:00

Friends of Stone Park

Minutes

October 2009

Attendees:

Greg Hoversten,Zac Chwirka, Bob Moritz, Jim Redmond, Kevin Pape, Michael Moore, Herman Schultz, Bernie Hoversten, Joe Mohrhauser and Doris Swanson.

Ranger Update:

· Broken Toe Run was run on the road due to the weather conditions of the hills.

· $2000.00 of grant money left over. Kevin debating how funds should be spent. Park will be open until snow.

· Horses going from state to state need to be checked for vaccinations. Kevin to oversee this.

· Mountain bikers saw a bobcat on trail. It was confirmed!

Treasurers Report: $7964.82 balance.

New Business:

· 75^th anniversary of when Stone Park became a State park. We need to recognize this date. What type of activities would be feasible? Concert- pick a date and pick your brain to help set activities.

· Year 2012 will be the 100^th anniversary of Stone Park.

· Sierra Club will have its 40^th anniversary – could we combine with them for a program?

· Hyperion Region to discuss points with Region 8- E.P.A. questions.

· The group Missouri River would be affected. An Environmental Impact statement is needed.

Next Meeting: November 17, 2009 Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center 7:00 p.m.

Kevin Pape

Park Ranger

Stone State Park

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

(712) 255-4698

Friends of Stone Park award from Iowa DNR

2009-03-23T09:37:00.000-05:00

Trail Update from Ranger Pape

2009-03-21T12:14:00.000-05:00

March 6, 2009

Last season we had several successful volunteer work days to clear brush along the trail, construct water bars, and fill in ruts. Our department paid for a one week rental of a tracked Bobcat which helped move dirt and shape some water bars last fall.

Our neighbor Zac Chwirka was building a garage last fall and offered to dump the extra fill in the main trail parking lot. Doug Palmer and the Big Soo Terminal offered a bobcat and operator to move this dirt. By luck, the operator was Tyler Flammang a mountain biker with skill at earth-moving and erosion control. The upper one third of this trail is in much better condition thanks to this work.

The Missouri River Runners had a great turnout at their annual Broken Toe Trail Run last fall. The Missouri River Runners donated $3700 to the Friends of Stone Park for trail improvements. Over the winter, the Friends of Stone Park applied for a Loess Hills Alliance Economic Development Grant to buy materials and equipment for trail improvements. In January, the Friends were notified that they received $4,000 in grant money. The Friends recently applied for $1,000 from the Iowa Equestrian Council grant program. Several equestrian-riders made donations to the Friends for trail improvements. The grant money is being used to purchase a dump trailer to move fill dirt to some of the eroded sections of trail. Grant funds will also be used to purchase fill dirt and experiment with geosynthetic material. Check out http://www.geocheminc.com/geoweb1.htm

In 2009, we’ll move fill dirt to try to restore the trail surface in some of the problem areas, particularly the trail to Mt. Lucia. Volunteers will continue to do the shovel work and fine-grading. By late in the year, we’ll have some geosynthetic material on one or two steep portions of the trail system. Geosynthetics have been tried at other equestrian sites in the Midwest. We’ll see if it helps hold loess soil.

The grant money is not enough to pay for labor to do the work. In fact volunteer labor will provide a significant portion of the match for the grants. My park staff has been drastically cut for this season. As of today, I anticipate hiring two part-time seasonal staff (vs. six in 2008). I hope you can help us at one of the volunteer work days this summer. The first volunteer trail work day is Tuesday, May 12th, from 5-8:00 PM. Meet at the Wahkaw shelter in Pammel Valley. I will send you information about more volunteer events as the season progresses.

Happy Trails to you, until we meet again.

Kevin Pape

Park Ranger

Stone State Park

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

(712) 255-4698

1939 Tour Brochure

2009-01-22T10:12:00.001-06:00

1939 Tour Brochure, cover

2009-01-22T10:12:00.000-06:00

The Memorial Mile

2009-01-21T12:52:00.000-06:00

The Memorial Mile (later named Memorial Drive)

Several decades ago, the only entrance to Stone Park was Stone Park Blvd. Following World War I the City created, "The Memorial Mile". Memorial Drive, as it is known today, is the mile long road leading to the gates of Stone Park. It was named to honor the 114 Sioux Citians who died in World War I. One hundred fourteen Elm Trees, one for each Sioux Citian who died, were planted along Memorial Drive sometime in the 1920's.

There is a commemorative plaque placed in the concrete of Memorial Drive to honor these individuals. That plaque was covered by asphalt repairs several years ago. We need help finding this plaque.

The Friends of Stone Park would like to see this historic commemorative entrance to Stone Park, Memorial Drive, restored.

On November 8, 2004, The Friends of Stone Park met with the City Council. The Council and City Manager were very interested and will work with Friends on learning more about, and possibly restoring, "The Memorial Mile".

Historic Stone Park

2009-01-21T12:51:00.000-06:00

THE HISTORY OF STONE PARK AND VACINITY, May 15, 1936
Stone Park carries the family name of Stone, T. J. Stone and his son, Edgar H. Stone, whose widow presented his half interest in the park to the City of Sioux City.

Mt. Talbot named for Daniel H. Talbot, owner of the land from 1885 to 1895.

Mt. Lucia named for Mrs. Lucia Stone, widow of Edgar H. Stone.

Ruth Ridge named for R.M.Rickotts daughter, now Mrs. Ruth Cooper. Mr. Ricketts served for many years as superintendent of the Talbot Farm.

Mt. Edgar named for Edgar H. Stone.

Marks Glen named for the Hon. Constant R. Marks, a pioneer of Woodbury County. Mr. Marks was born in 1841 in New York State, coming to Sioux City in 1868 to practice law, after four years of service in the Civil War. He was elected to the legislature in 1869 and took an active part in both county and state affairs. The large volume in the City Library, “Past and Present of Woodbury County”, was edited by Mr. Marks. Many facts contained in this report were obtained from the volume.

Conkey Point named for the family of Conkeys, who lived where Conkey Point now stands. The Conkeys were a family of early settlers.

Camp Kellogg Boy Scout Camp - named for “Larry” Kellogg, son of Dr. and. Mrs. Ray Kellogg. During the world war, “Larry” was outstanding as a twelve year old Boy Scout in his tireless devotion to service. The Boy Scout organization carried on a large program of usefulness in aiding the Red Cross, collecting pewter and old metals for bullets, distributing posters, and helping in all ways possible. “Larry” died of influenza while he was aiding in this Scout work.

Mt. Lookout a high overlook knoll near the east entrance. Elevation 1473 feet above sea level.

Tepee Hill named from Indian days. Exact origin not known.

Broken Toe named from Indian days. Exact origin not known. [several tree roots line this trail per contemporary lore]

Razed Dakota Point Shelter, CCC Project

2008-03-26T05:53:00.000-05:00

Old Toboggan Run, near Nature Center

2008-03-26T05:48:00.000-05:00

Certificate of Existance

2008-03-23T09:35:00.000-05:00