March–a transition month, when Iowa experiences bits of winter and spring, and everything in between. The Vernal Equinox, the astronomical First Day of Spring, occurs on Mar 20. We get a March bonus this year–two full moons, Mar 1 and Mar 31.

Kudos to the Indian Creek Nature Center “Paddle Day 2018” organizers and the fantastic presenters. With 86 paid attendees and plenty of positive feedback, we’ll look forward to doing it again in 2019. FYI, they might have a couple more signed copies of Nate’s “Paddling Iowa” book (319-362-0664).

This issue is full of indoor and outdoor events, including indoor and outdoor paddling. We also included several items to pique your interest (salamanders in politics, eagle eggs, early Iowa photography) and help you prepare for Iowa adventures (Travel Iowa Guide & Map). We’re particularly pleased to see the return of the Iowa Trails Summit, set for Oct 12 (please complete the quick online survey & mark the date). And congratulations to Elgin, which was selected as the 2018 IRR River Town of the Year!

The IWTA Website 2018 Events Calendar now includes over 180 items, and has some new features. Click on any Full Moon date and you will see a complete schedule of full moon dates for the year. Ditto for Meteor Showers.

SPECIAL THANKS to those groups who have added a link to our IWTA Website on their own website or in their newsletter. We appreciate the benefits of networking!