Jared McGovern, a Peosta, IA native, is a devoted husband, father, and nature enthusiast. Jared's passion for environmental education led to him studying Conservation and Environmental Interpretation/Education at Iowa State University and later receiving Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Clarke University in 2018.

Throughout his career, Jared worked at various organizations nationwide. Most notably in Dubuque, Jared was the Director of Conservation Programs at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. Holding many positions and responsibilities throughout the years at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, he was highly valued and demonstrated his dedication to conservation and education for a total of 14 wonderful years.

His commitment earned him the 2021 Bohemil Shimek Environmental Educator Award for Outstanding Efforts by an Environmental Educator by the Iowa Conservation Education Coalition and the Iowa Association of Naturalists for his work engaging youth with freshwater mussel restoration. Also in 2021 Jared was recognized as a “Rising Star'' in Dubuque by the Telegraph Herald Biz Times.

As Director, Jared McGovern will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful development and seamless operation of The Wanderwood Gardens. His extensive experience in education and conservation makes him the ideal candidate to curate an enriching experience for visitors while maintaining a strong commitment to ecological sustainability.

The Wanderwood Gardens is set to open its gates in Spring 2026, welcoming adventurers and day-dreamers of all ages to embark on an unforgettable play experience. This unique destination will feature interactive art, nature-inspired play areas, and educational programs to encourage a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Coming Spring 2026, The Wanderwood Gardens is an enchanting setting for discovery and imaginative play. This new children’s garden will cultivate children’s relationships with the outdoors through interacting with the natural and manmade playgrounds surrounding them. The gardens are filled with a variety of flowers, trees, and plants, with magical activity areas and winding paths that lead to hidden nooks and crannies, creating an active nature’s playground for all ages. The Wanderwood Gardens will be connected to The Dubuque Arboretum and located at 3800 Arboretum Dr in Dubuque, Iowa. For more information, please visit wanderwoodgardens.com and follow @wanderwoodgardens on Facebook and Instagram.

The Dubuque Arboretum is a 56-acre botanical garden located in Dubuque, Iowa. The arboretum is home to a variety of plants and trees, as well as a number of educational programs and events. The Dubuque Arboretum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the education and enjoyment of plants and nature. For more information, please visit https://dubuquearboretum.net/

Jared McGovern, a Peosta, IA native, is a devoted husband, father, and nature enthusiast. Jared's passion for environmental education led to him studying Conservation and Environmental Interpretation/Education at Iowa State University and later receiving Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Clarke University in 2018.

Throughout his career, Jared worked at various organizations nationwide. Most notably in Dubuque, Jared was the Director of Conservation Programs at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. Holding many positions and responsibilities throughout the years at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, he was highly valued and demonstrated his dedication to conservation and education for a total of 14 wonderful years.

His commitment earned him the 2021 Bohemil Shimek Environmental Educator Award for Outstanding Efforts by an Environmental Educator by the Iowa Conservation Education Coalition and the Iowa Association of Naturalists for his work engaging youth with freshwater mussel restoration. Also in 2021 Jared was recognized as a “Rising Star'' in Dubuque by the Telegraph Herald Biz Times.

As Director, Jared McGovern will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful development and seamless operation of The Wanderwood Gardens. His extensive experience in education and conservation makes him the ideal candidate to curate an enriching experience for visitors while maintaining a strong commitment to ecological sustainability.

The Wanderwood Gardens is set to open its gates in Spring 2026, welcoming adventurers and day-dreamers of all ages to embark on an unforgettable play experience. This unique destination will feature interactive art, nature-inspired play areas, and educational programs to encourage a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Coming Spring 2026, The Wanderwood Gardens is an enchanting setting for discovery and imaginative play. This new children’s garden will cultivate children’s relationships with the outdoors through interacting with the natural and manmade playgrounds surrounding them. The gardens are filled with a variety of flowers, trees, and plants, with magical activity areas and winding paths that lead to hidden nooks and crannies, creating an active nature’s playground for all ages. The Wanderwood Gardens will be connected to The Dubuque Arboretum and located at 3800 Arboretum Dr in Dubuque, Iowa. For more information, please visit wanderwoodgardens.com and follow @wanderwoodgardens on Facebook and Instagram.

The Dubuque Arboretum is a 56-acre botanical garden located in Dubuque, Iowa. The arboretum is home to a variety of plants and trees, as well as a number of educational programs and events. The Dubuque Arboretum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the education and enjoyment of plants and nature. For more information, please visit https://dubuquearboretum.net/