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Ralston
Eden Index
Climate
7.4
•
Recreation
2.2
•
Community
•
Safeguard
3.7/10
Ralston, Iowa is a small town located in Carroll County, in the central part of the state. It experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from around 20°F (-7°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 34 inches (86 cm) and snowfall of approximately 30 inches (76 cm).
The town's hydrology is primarily influenced by the nearby Middle Raccoon River. The river provides a source of freshwater and supports various aquatic species. Additionally, the area has several small creeks and wetlands that contribute to the local hydrological system.
Ralston offers a range of outdoor recreation opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The Middle Raccoon River provides excellent conditions for fishing, with species such as catfish, bass, and walleye attracting anglers. The surrounding forests and open fields are ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography. The town also has a municipal park with picnic areas and playgrounds, perfect for family outings and gatherings. Overall, Ralston's climate, hydrology constituents, and outdoor recreation opportunities make it an attractive destination for those seeking to connect with nature.
What is the Eden Index?
The Snoflo Eden Index serves as a comprehensive rating system for regions, evaluating their desirability through a holistic assessment of climate health, outdoor recreation opportunities, and natural disaster risk, acknowledging the profound impact of these factors on livability and well-being.
Climate Health Indicator (CHI): 7.4
Ralston receives approximately
843mm of rain per year,
with humidity levels near 83%
and air temperatures averaging around
9°C.
Ralston has a plant hardyness factor of
5, meaning
plants and agriculture in this region thrive during a short period during spring and early summer. Most
plants will die off during the colder winter months.
By considering the ideal temperature range, reliable water supplies, clean air, and stable seasonal rain or snowpacks, the Climate Health Indicator (CHI) underscores the significance of a healthy climate as the foundation for quality living.
A healthy climate is paramount for ensuring a high quality of life and livability in a region, fostering both physical well-being and environmental harmony. This can be characterized by ideal temperatures, reliable access to water supplies, clean air, and consistent seasonal rain or snowpacks.
Weather Forecast
Streamflow Conditions
Des Moines
Area Rivers
Des Moines
Snowpack Depths
Des Moines
Reservoir Storage Capacity
Des Moines
Groundwater Levels
Recreational Opportunity Index (ROI): 2.2
The Recreational Opportunity Index (ROI) recognizes the value of outdoor recreational options, such as parks, hiking trails, camping sites, and fishing spots, while acknowledging that climate plays a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and consistency of these experiences.
Access to outdoor recreational opportunities, encompassing activities such as parks, hiking, camping, and fishing, is crucial for overall well-being, and the climate plays a pivotal role in enabling and enhancing these experiences, ensuring that individuals can engage in nature-based activities comfortably and consistently.
Camping Areas
| Campground | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Watona City Park | 28 | 986 ft | |||
| St. James Municipal | 21 | 1,086 ft | |||
| Fort Ridgely State Park | 40 | 950 ft | |||
| Lake Hanska County Park | 22 | 1,027 ft | |||
| Eagle Nest Park | 20 | 1,053 ft | |||
| Voss Park City Campground | None | 1,192 ft | |||
| Sportsman Park - Sleepy Eye | 8 | 1,009 ft | |||
| Truman City Park | None | 1,104 ft | |||
| Mack Lake Co Park | None | 820 ft | |||
| Flandrau State Park | 90 | 972 ft |
Nearby Ski Areas
Catastrophe Safeguard Index (CSI):
The Catastrophe Safeguard Index (CSI) recognizes that natural disaster risk, encompassing floods, fires, hurricanes, and tornadoes, can drastically affect safety and the overall appeal of an area.
The level of natural disaster risk in a region significantly affects safety and the overall livability, with climate change amplifying these risks by potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of events like floods, fires, hurricanes, and tornadoes, thereby posing substantial challenges to community resilience and well-being.
Community Resilience Indicator (CRI):
The Community Resilience Indicator (CRI) recognizes that education, healthcare, and socioeconomics are crucial to the well-being of a region. The CRI acknowledges the profound impact of these elements on residents' overall quality of life. By evaluating educational resources, healthcare accessibility, and economic inclusivity, the index captures the essential aspects that contribute to a thriving community, fostering resident satisfaction, equity, and social cohesion.