The Friends of Lake Darling invited the public to celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony of their new educational trail, and the anniversary of 75 years of Lake Darling State Park over the weekend. 

Friends of Lake Darling board member Dr. Fay Vittetoe shared more on what visitors to the trail can expect to learn, “The panels will have five themes, nature made for man, inspiring passion in understanding conservation for future generations. A call to action where little steps and habits we each can take everyday that collectively ensure nature’s ability to support our future generations. Impacts on the landscape, efforts of Iowa’s historic conservation leaders weaving the conservation efforts of today’s Iowans. Science-based decision making, nature speaks to us everyday inspiring action and shows us the way to heal. The natural world connects us, from trees, the air we breathe, and the wetlands and the water we drink, and from the land, the bounty we eat.” 

The ribbon cutting took place at 1 p.m. Saturday at the head of the trail. A small group then took the trail to learn more about conservation, and to share stories of their time at the park which is named after Ding Darling. 

Later that afternoon the Friends of Lake Darling hosted a 75th celebration at the lodge. They discussed recent and upcoming events and projects at the park. The trail project was supported by Jerry B Robinson, Friends of Lake Darling, the Washington County Riverboat Foundation, and the Brinton Educational and Charitable Trust.