NOTE: For most up to date events, please refer to our Facebook page

All Programs at EB Lyons Interpretive Center/Mines of Spain

Friends of the Mines of Spain present their Winter Program Series 12-1pm at the EB Lyons Center, 8991 Bellevue Heights Road, 52003. Free and open to all ages. Nature center is open 10-2 on Sundays.

2026 Events

February 22, 12 noon –  Dr. Eugene Tesdahl –To assure him the enjoyment of the mines and lands… The complex History of the Mines of Spain. We will dig a bit deeper into the history of the Mines of Spain. Dr. Tesdahl serves as associate professor of history at the University of Wisconsin – Platteville. There he teaches courses on early American history, Indigenous history, women’s history, and public history.

Mar 15, 12 noon –  Remnant Prairie Restoration with Tony Vorwald Ecologist. Working to restore remnant prairie, savanna, and oak woodland. In a part of the world where the majority of the landscape has been dramatically altered, remnant areas of Iowa’s original landscape are not commonplace. Though they are few and far between remnant areas, i.e. prairies, savannas, and oak woodlands, can still be found. Our remnant areas are ecological gems teeming with rare plants and interesting wildlife but in many cases still face threats to their ecological heath, and presence on our modern landscape. Jackson County Conservation Natural Resources Ecologist Tony Vorwald will talk about remnant area ecology basics, issues, and management used to restore these rare natural areas.

Mar 29, 12 noon – Bird Banding with David Shealer –David Shealer is a Professor at Loras College.  He will identify, weigh, measure, sex and determine their health.  Assist in the capture of song birds and identify and get familiar with birds at your feeders.  The feeders at the center have numerous birds coming and going all year long. There are over fifteen different species of songbirds utilizing the feeders during the winter.

April 12, 12 noon – Promoting pollinators and birds in your backyard – Bill Meyer This presentation will cover concepts and practices homeowners can implement to help pollinators and birds thrive in their yard. All levels of enthusiasts are welcome.

April 26, 12 noon – Mike Rouw the Big Tree Hunter – Mark Rouw is a volunteer “big tree hunter” who has documented and measured Iowa’s largest trees for the Iowa DNR’s Big Trees of Iowa program since the 1970s. He identifies, measures, and tracks champions based on a points system (circumference, height, spread), having recorded over a thousand, including several national champions. Mark will educate us on what a “Champion” tree is and why trees are so important. Free program for all ages. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the EB Lyons Interpretive Center by the Friends of the Mines of Spain

Watch social media for more events

Join us on our Youtube page to view some of our more popular winter event recordings

https://www.youtube.com/@minesofspain

EB Lyons Center 8991 Bellevue Heights Road, Dubuque, Ia 52003 563-556-0620

 Friends of The Mines of Spain, 8991 Suite B Bellevue Heights Rd., Dubuque, IA 52003-9214, 563-556-0620