“Signs” of the Times By: Kevin Williams, Grundy County Conservation Director

“Signs, signs, everywhere are signs…………do this, don’t do that. Can’t you read the signs!” I remember listening to that when it was a new rock song just hitting the charts. Hard to believe that was back in 1971. Almost 50 years ago! I haven’t been sleeping the best lately which probably puts me in with a fairly large group of people given the events of the past several weeks. Such was the case when I looked at the alarm clock the other morning and it said 3 AM. And what song popped into my mind but “Signs”. Go anywhere today and there are signs posted. Our conservation department is no different. And I should say at this point that when you are in the park business, signs are a necessary evil. Do not litter. Fires in designated areas only. Campers register here. Park closes at 10:30 PM. Bass length limit 15 inches………….. We posted a sign on the door to the museum and offices back on March 18 that the buildings were closed to the public until March 30. This, of course, was revised to the current “until further notice”. Unfortunately, it looks like that will be the case for awhile yet. Business of the department continues. Bills are paid, phones are answered, and emails are sent. Meetings are by conference calls. And outside, the tree and shrub leaves are breaking bud, turkeys are gobbling, and people are appreciating the open spaces of the parks. But those parks aren’t without their new signs either. With the campground closures by the Governor, signs had to go up at our campgrounds. The Conservation Board took the action to close the campgrounds to all camping until further notice -which basically is until word from the Governor. Again, that looks like it will be awhile yet. Along with that same proclamation came playground closure. So, what else but more signs at those. And yellow caution tape, as well. Again, the words “Until further notice” placed on those signs, too. Unless something changes between this writing and the publishing in the paper, the parks are still open! That is the interpretation of the county conservation departments and the Iowa DNR. You can’t pull your camper out on one of the sites right now or unfortunately let you kids play on the equipment but the remainder of our parks are there for your well-being. Sunshine, fresh air, and communing with nature is an important piece of the mental health puzzle we continue to strive for in our daily lives right now. Just like you, I look forward to tearing down some of those signs. Can’t be too soon.