(Guthrie County, IA) — The Iowa Natural Resource Commission has approved the demolition of the former Conservation Education Center at Springbrook State Park just north of Lake Panorama in Guthrie County, bringing an end to a facility that served generations of Iowa students and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources closed the center in 2017 because of budget constraints and declining use. Since then, officials say the buildings have continued to deteriorate, making demolition the safest option.
According to Iowa Public Radio, during Thursday’s commission meeting, NRC Commissioner K.R. Buck called the decision a “sad day,” recalling the impact the center had on thousands of children over the years. Buck said he had hoped the facility could be preserved when he joined the commission three years ago.
The education center welcomed thousands of students, teachers and DNR staff during its more than 50 years of operation. Iowa Conservation Director for the Izaak Walton League, Mike Delaney, said the center created lasting memories for visitors, praising the park setting, dormitories, meals and the facility’s well-known cinnamon rolls.
Conservationist Liz Garst also expressed disappointment that the buildings could not be saved. However, she said the property has fallen into severe disrepair, noting that trees have begun growing through the parking lot and describing the site as beyond restoration.
The DNR says demolishing the education center and four deteriorating storage sheds will eliminate safety hazards and allow the area to be restored to its natural condition. The demolition project is expected to be completed by April 2027
