Click to see Past Projects
Current Projects
Building Renovation
The east wing of the Hartman Interpretive Center was originally built in the early 1940's. In 2018 construction finished on a newly rebuilt east wing and a renovated west wing. This $2.3 million project vastly improved the community spaces such as the exhibit room and also the education area downstairs. We have provided a cutting edge educational area for school field trips and summer camps.
Blue Spotted Salamander Reintroduction
We were recently granted a permit to begin collection of this endangered salamander to reintroduce at Hartman Reserve.The project is coordinated by Hartman Reserve in cooperation with The State Preserve Advisory Board, NRCS, Iowa DNR, and Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and many volunteers including the Student Nature Society at UNI. This project was funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Cedar Valley Stormwater Education Initiative
Hartman Reserve educators have initiated a partnership with five of our local cities (Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Elk Run, Hudson, and Evensdale ) to provide stormwater and watershed education targeted to their respective residences. These municipalities are currently collecting stormwater funds from residences and businesses and are required to spend a portion of these fees on education. We have offered to provide this education through our already established outdoor education program. We believe that working together at this local level will allow our message to reach more citizens. These five local municipalities have pooled funds together to compensate a Hartman naturalist for their time dedicated to this one issue. Hartman itself is also contributing a significant portion of time and resources into this initiative. This partnership is the first of its kind in Iowa.
Learn More here.
Learn More here.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
STEM Recognition at Hartman! The Hartman educational program recently was designated a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) Contracted Service Provider with Waterloo Community Schools--the first of such recognition in the Cedar Valley. (We've been doing STEM programming all along--it's nice to be recognized!)
Artist in Residence
We provide the inspiration and studio space to let you create. One artist is chosen every year to demonstrate their art as inspired by Hartman and the natural beauty that surrounds this area. We work with other local artists from the Waterloo Center of the arts and University Book & Supply provides well..supplies!
Urban Youth Corps
Local youth who have experienced barriers to learning are given an opportunity to work for 3 weeks on various projects related to the maintenance of the park. It may be rebuilding a bridge, installing interpretive signs, or replacing steps. The goal is to create something the group can look back on years later with pride. Another goal is to coach the individual with the soft skills and experience needed to begin looking for employment. Grants from Iowa DOT and The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa fund the majority of this project. For over 30 years Hartman has given urban youth the chance to gain work experience maintaining trails, building foot bridges and learning job skills.
Waste Reduction Education
Funded by the Black Hawk County Solid Waste Commission, the Waste Trac Education Team provides free programs for school groups and adults. Go to http://www.wastetrac.org/education.html
The Field Trip Trust
For over 15 years donors have provided funding for school field trips to Hartman. This fund pays for half of the cost to have a classroom outdoor experience. This fund is exclusively for schools who need it most, namely those with a high percentage of students that qualify as low income. This fund continues to grow and every year we are able to provide more opportunities for more students!
Internship Program
Hartman employs up to seven interns per year. These interns train in a variety of skills including outdoor education and event planning. This program is made possible through a grant from the Max and Helen Guernsey Charitable Foundation.
The Hartman Future Fund
Part endowment, part privately invested. This diversified fund is in place to see that Hartman Reserve's future is bright. Your contribution will help carry out the mission and provide outdoor experiences at Hartman Reserve.
AARP Worksite
Hartman Reserve is a designated AARP WorkSearch site. Select individuals are able to learn new skills and keep resumes current. WorkSearch provides a variety of services, including web based interest and ability inventories, skills assessments, information about the community job market, and connections to both on-line and community based training. The program also provides links to employers that have job openings.