Buena Vista County Conservation plans raven talk and fishing derby

Buena Vista County Conservation is lining up two low-key summer outings that give families an easy reason to get outside: a noon raven talk at Storm Lake Marina on Friday and a youth fishing derby near Sioux Rapids on Saturday.

The first Naturalist Lunch Box program of the year is set for Friday, June 5, at noon at Storm Lake Marina, 207 W. Marina Road. The topic is ravens and crows, and guests are asked to pack a lunch and stop by for a short educational program with hands-on activities for younger attendees. The program is open to all ages, so it is built for kids, parents, grandparents and anyone who wants a midday nature stop without a long drive or a full-day commitment. Special guest Cassie Wendl, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, will talk about ravens and crows and bring a live raven and crow.

Families need to RSVP by Wednesday, June 3, at 4 p.m. by calling 712-295-7985. Buena Vista County Conservation also says the program can be cancelled because of inclement weather or lack of participants, making the phone call an important step before heading to the marina.

The fishing contest follows quickly on Saturday, June 6, at Gustafson Lake-Gabrielson Park near Sioux Rapids. The Buena Vista County Conservation Fishing Derby is set for children ages 6 through 15 and is split into two divisions, ages 6-10 and ages 11-15. Check-in runs from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., and the contest itself runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Children ages 6-10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration is required and must be completed by Friday, June 5, at 4 p.m. Prizes will be awarded in each division for the heaviest single fish and the heaviest stringer of three fish, giving young anglers a chance at both bragging rights and small rewards.

The derby has become a familiar part of Buena Vista County’s summer calendar. The Storm Lake Times Pilot has previously listed derby notices in multiple years, and a 2024 follow-up reported 14 youth anglers competing. Another follow-up last year said five participants caught fish and won fishing poles. Together, the marina program and the derby give county families two straightforward outdoor options: one centered on wildlife education, the other on a morning of casting lines and weighing fish.