While we might not be completely in the clear yet from the grasp of winter, the recent warmer weather has brought with it an increase in outdoor activity. 

Dallas County Conservation Board Outreach Coordinator Sarah Gilchrist says there is plenty of evidence that shows the recent good weather has brought more people outdoors in Dallas County. 

“A lot of people have been getting out on the Raccoon River Valley Trail lately and we have seen a big increase in our traffic on the trails and also in the numbers of trail permits that are being sold.”

Gilchrist says it’s important to remember that trail passes can now be purchased online by going to dallascountyiowa.gov/conservation which is available 24/7, or they can purchase the trail permit on the trailheads using their smartphones. Gilchrist notes that only minor projects are slated for the trail this year. 

“I am happy to report that there will some very short term maintenance projects, like you would do just to keep things safe and nice, and those will not affect trail passage for very long periods of time.”

Gilchrist says she is happy the trail will be easily passable this year even with the various maintenance projects. Gilchrist says to keep up with any closures you can check the Dallas County Conservation Board Facebook page here.