Dallas County Conservation is getting ready to wrap up the month of September with a pair of free programs.

It’s been a busy month for Conservation, with several different programs throughout the County, and their last two will take place in Perry and Woodward. First, this Saturday, the public is invited to an event Forest Park Museum Curator Pete Malmberg is calling an “Arboretum Amble.” From 1:30-2:30 p.m., attendees will be taken on a guided walk through the Forest Park Arboretum, learning the history of the trees and shrubs planted on the grounds. Malmberg says you may even see some specimens you never thought to look for in central Iowa. Pre-registration is requested for the program, as it’s weather dependent.

The second program will be this Sunday, and is the annual High Trestle Hawk Watch. The free event will run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the High Trestle Trail overlook at the Des Moines River near Woodward, and people are free to come and go as they like. There will be some experienced “hawkers” on hand to help attendees identify the raptors that pass by. A half mile walk on level ground is required to get to the event location from the trailhead. For more information on either event or to sign up, stop in or call Forest Park Museum at 515-465-3577.