Welcome to Clay County Conservation
Clay County Conservation Board's goal is to promote a safe, friendly environment for all to enjoy. A multitude of activities exist within the 25 parks and areas of the Clay County Conservation Department: camping, hiking, educational programs, hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking and much, much more! For additional information about programs and how to reserve a cabin or picnic shelter in one of our parks, please call the Clay County Conservation Board.
Trout will be released at Scharnberg Park! Iowa DNR will be stocking the pond on November 5. Head out to the park and catch some trout!
This is part of the Iowa DNR's Urban Lakes Trout Program, which is an effort to introduce trout fishing to more people across the state. The lake is open to fish by all individuals with an Iowa fishing license and trout stamp.
Headlines & Events
Scharnberg Park Annual Halloween Hike
Clay County Conservation Board will be hosting the annual trick or treat night at Scharnberg Park. The Halloween Hike will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Children ages 12 and under will be able to walk around the campground where campers will be waiting with decorated campsites and…
Environmental Education Coordinator Resigns
The Clay County Conservation Board has recently accepted the resignation of Brianne Blom, Environmental Education Coordinator, and expresses its sincere appreciation for her service and dedication. During her time with Clay County, Brianne demonstrated a strong commitment to conservation, community engagement, and the mission of education in order to protect Iowa’s natural resources. The Clay…
Seasonal Livestock Grazing in the Kindlespire Complex
Click Cattle Grazing 2025 [PDF, 227.89 KB] for more information including grazing bid sheet information, special conditions and use permit. Grazing bid sheets should be submitted no later than 3:00 PM on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 to the Clay County Conservation Board, 420 10th Ave SE, Spencer, IA 51301.
Proposed Property Tax Levy Public Hearing
Clay County’s public hearing on the Proposed Property Tax Levy for fiscal year 2025/2026 is scheduled for April 1, 2025, at 8:30AM in the Board Room of the Clay County Administration Building.
Is the ice safe?
The safety of ice depends on its thickness and other factors such as cracks, inlets, and moving water. Ice begins to be “safe” at around 4 – 6 inches thickness. Do not even walk on ice 3″ or less in thickness. However, it is important to note that ice thickness can vary across a body of…