Wapsi River Environmental Education Center

The staff of the the Wapsi River Environmental Education Center would like to welcome and invite you to take advantage of the environmental education opportunities at the center. This beautiful area borders the Wapsipinicon River and is diverse in ecosystems and wildlife.

The 225-acre Wapsi River Center is the result of the combined efforts of various organizations. The Center is jointly managed by the Clinton and Scott County Conservations Boards. The area was acquired through cooperation of the Clinton and Scott County Conservation Boards, the Quad City Conservation Alliance and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. St. Ambrose University is also involved with the Center. They have completed construction of the Monsignor Menke Astronomical Observatory, and are conduction biological field classes and special projects at the Center. These organizations have helped develop an area with numerous educational opportunities.

The primary purpose of the Wapsi River Center is to provide environmental education. Programs for the public, schools, and other groups are being held regularly at the Center.

HISTORY

The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center was previously owned by the Boy Scouts of America. The Boy Scouts began acquiring the land in the 1920's and named the area Camp Minneyata, meaning "beside happy waters." During the spring of 1995, the Quad City Conservation Alliance and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation purchased the property from the Illowa Boy Scout Council. Title to the property has been transferred to Scott County. Development and management of the Center is being coordinated by the Scott and Clinton County Conservation Boards. The Scott County Conservation Board is managing the day-to-day operation, maintenance and development of the Center.

LOCATION

The Wapsi River Center is located two miles northwest of Dixon, Iowa, at the north end of 52nd Avenue on the county line between Clinton and Scott Counties. The Center is approximately ten miles north of Interstate 80 (Walcott Exit 284) and 6 miles south of Highway 30 from Wheatland. Directly across the river is Clinton County's Sherman Park.

Rules & Regulations

Wapsi Center Photo Album

Eagle View Eco Center Photo Album

Facilities & User Fees