Conservation Annual Report Highlights Economic Impact, Education and Volunteer Contributions
Posted October 21, 2026
Posted by Conservation and Board of Supervisors
Pottawattamie County Conservation highlighted the economic and community impact of its parks, programs and volunteers during a presentation of its 2025–26 Annual Report to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, October 20.
Executive Director Jeff Franco shared accomplishments from the past fiscal year, including an estimated $8.57 million in economic impact, nearly 10,000 environmental education participants and more than 15,000 volunteer hours.
The economic impact estimate, which excludes Crescent Hill at Hitchcock, reflects the broader benefits of county parks and outdoor recreation. Franco explained that visitors contribute to the local economy through spending at nearby businesses, including restaurants and gas stations. The report also estimates a return of $3.75 for every dollar invested in Conservation.
Environmental education remained a major focus during the fiscal year, with 9,850 participants taking part in 331 programs. Activities included school visits, field trips, summer camps and public programs designed to connect people of all ages with the county's natural resources.
Volunteers contributed 15,150 hours of service, representing an estimated $468,438 in donated labor. Franco emphasized the importance of that support in helping Conservation maintain parks, complete projects and provide recreational opportunities throughout the county.
The department also reported continued engagement with its parks and facilities, including more than 14,400 campers and 825 cabin stays. Its digital outreach reached approximately 3.1 million through social media during the fiscal year.
Franco described land stewardship, environmental education and outdoor recreation as the three primary areas guiding Conservation's work. Together, those efforts help preserve the county's natural resources while creating opportunities for residents and visitors to explore and enjoy them.
The full 2025–26 Annual Report includes additional information about park improvements, department finances, educational programming and recreational activities.