Connections run deep between Alliant Energy and Indian Creek Nature Center (ICNC) in Cedar Rapids.
"Much like the deep roots that strengthen the soil in the prairies across its nearly 500 acres, Indian Creek Nature Center has been growing deep roots in the community over the past 50 years. This has been accomplished with the support of community partners like Alliant Energy, who has invested heavily in our mission,” said John Meyers, ICNC executive director.
For 50 years, ICNC has inspired generations to explore the outdoors and champion nature. ICNC began in 1973 with a big barn, a few trails and two environmental activists well ahead of their time. Today it’s an extended community center that welcomes tens of thousands of visitors every year.
Alliant Energy often partners with ICNC and is excited to help the center celebrate its 50th anniversary. The nature center was the site of Alliant Energy’s very first solar project in Iowa over 20 years ago. Alliant Energy has sponsored ICNC’s Maple Syrup Festival and many programs over the years.. Employees also volunteer at ICNC and serve as board and trustee members..
“I was raised in Cedar Rapids and the nature center was a place I visited as a child on school field trips,” said May Farlinger, vice president of customer and community engagement at Alliant Energy and member of the ICNC board of directors. “It’s so great to have the opportunity to be reengaged with the Nature Center in a meaningful way. The space is amazing, truly amazing. I’m just so proud of the work they do and the effect they have on the Cedar Rapids community.”
The nature center's roots are planted firmly in environmental stewardship, something Alliant Energy values too. Through the decades, education at ICNC became more structured and especially focused on introducing very young children to nature through play and immersive experiences. The nature center also holds summer camps which the Alliant Energy Foundation has helped support.
The nature center continues to expand. In 2016 it added Amazing Space, an environmentally sustainable demonstration building. In 2021, Alliant Energy provided support for the in-floor exhibit that traces Indian Creek flora and fauna across the seasons. And recently, Etzel Sugar Grove, a certified organic farm to establish sustainable permaculture farming in Iowa was started.
In 2022, ICNC honored Alliant Energy with its Outstanding Service by a Community Supporter award. The award recognized Alliant Energy's long-standing partnership with ICNC on renewable energy initiatives and its support for environmental and STEM education programs.
As a company with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Alliant Energy is a proud long-time sponsor of Indian Creek Nature Center.
