Des Moines County Conservation is dedicated to the sustainability of natural resources through land stewardship, conservation education and by providing quality outdoor recreation opportunities.
History of 4th Pumping Plant
In January, 1973, the DMCCB entered into a 20-year management agreement with Drainage District #4 of Des Moines and Louisa Counties. This management agreement was renewed in February, 1994 for another twenty years.
This 17-acre area, which is adjacent to the pumping plant for the Drainage District, was developed into a camping area. In May, 1973, the Department of Natural Resources approved the development plan for the 4th PPRP which included picnicking and camping facilities, access roads, shelter house, playground equipment, volleyball court, boat ramp, toilets, and water. In 1975, the first eight double electrical camping outlets were installed. An extensive tree/shrub planting program was initiated in the ‘70’s.
When Oakville’s levee broke during the Flood of 2008, the entire site was flooded, killing many of the trees at the campground. Since then, the trees have been replaced with the help of Des Moines County Conservation, the Iowa DNR, Trees Forever and students and teachers from the Mediapolis School District.
In 1995, Rathbun Regional Water was installed in the area.