Sustainability Efforts in Des Moines

Our earth is the only one we are going to get, and there are countless environment sustainability organizations in Des Moines who are determined to make it last. Searching for grassroots non-profits to volunteer for or financially support? Here is a list of the top local sustainability organizations in the area.

Jackson Street Bridge

Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

From establishing Iowa’s multi-use trails to protecting untouched prairie, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation works to protect and restore Iowa’s land, water and wildlife. Their mission is bound by the idea that together, we can do more.

Click here to volunteer!

INHF Team Members

Volunteers can share their enthusiasm for the natural world by connecting with guests, nurturing plants, educating, or supporting events and activities.


The Brenton Arboretum

The Brenton Arboretum

The mission of The Brenton Arboretum is to inspire joy through the beauty and knowledge of the natural world of trees. It is home to more than 2,500 trees and miles of hiking trails just minutes west of the Des Moines metro. 

Click here to donate or sign up to volunteer today!


Trees Forever

Trees Forever Volunteers

Trees Forever was established in Marion, IA in 1989. Year round, the non-profit works with landowners and communities to improve water quality, aid in wildlife conservation, manage stormwater, reduce soil erosion and decrease pollutants runoff…

Simply by planting trees on road and riversides.

Sign up to volunteer today!


Greater DSM Botanical Gardens

Join a dynamic team helping the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden become one of the most beautiful attractions in Iowa!

Share your enthusiasm for the natural world by connecting with guests, nurturing plants, educating, or supporting events and activities.

Waterfall inside DSM Botanical Gardens

Volunteers are essential to the success. Join the team today!


Friends of Des Moines Parks

DSM Park

This non-profit works closely with the community and the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department to enhance parks and expand recreation opportunities for all residents and visitors of Des Moines.

Their current fundraising efforts are focused on the projects listed on their website which aim to create vibrant, accessible spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Click here to donate!


Volunteer Today

As you can see, Des Moines offers more than the vibrant city life and diverse cultural experiences. Especially for sustainability projects, local non-profits consistently need all the hands they can get! Many organizations invite the public to donate or volunteer for their activities and events.

Find a local non-profit that interests you, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Share in the fun and the stewarding of our beloved environment!

Des Moines’ Top 4 Pizza Spots

Looking for a quick slice or bite to kick off your week (or weekend)? Here’s our top 5 places in Des Moines for a good pizza fix!

Fong’s Pizza

A Des Moines classic, this is a must for anyone new to the city or coming again for a quick visit. Some fan favorites include the Crab Rangoon pizza, General Tso’s chicken pizza, and the Street Taco pizza. This Asian-Italian fusion has proven to be a success amongst Des Moines natives and visitors alike!

Eatery A

This Mediterranean-inspired spot has become known and beloved for their selection of wood-fired pizzas. Customers strongly recommend trying their non traditional flavors such as the savory-sweet #14, which features smoky bits of chorizo and tart pineapple with a hint of heat from jalapeño jam. 

Blaze Pizza

If your dream pizza is one that happens to be light, fresh, and quick, Blaze is your pizza soulmate. This popular pizza chain has 800 degree ovens guarantee a perfectly blazing hot pie just about any time you order from them. Flavors that won customers over include the Green Stripe and the traditional mozzarella and red pepper.

Franka Pizzeria 

Another wood-fired find, this restaurant is owned by the same company behind St. Kilda Cafe and Bakery. Their feel and atmosphere are great, but what sold their customers was their simple, yet excellent quality pizza. Fan favorites here are the grilled corn, margherita, and pancetta pizzas! Their sweet inclusion of hot honey is what makes the place stand out from the rest here.

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