State Wildlife Action Plans

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Iowa

Led by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Teaming with Wildlife Coalition includes wildlife biologists, hunters & anglers, birdwatchers, hikers, nature-based businesses and other conservationists.

Iowa's Diverse Lands, Waters, and Wildlife

At the heart of America’s farmbelt, Iowa’s agricultural reputation is reflected in a landscape of row crops and livestock. But bordered by two mighty rivers and hiding pockets of scenic hills, remnant grand prairies, prairie pothole wetlands and hardwood forests, the state holds an unexpected diversity of wildlife, including coldwater streams teeming with brook trout and one of the largest wintering bald eagle populations south of Alaska.

When dozens of scientists, sportsmen, government agencies and other conservationists came together to develop the Iowa Wildlife Action Plan, they identified conservation issues like habitat fragmentation, invasive species and loss of streamside vegetation which could threaten this incredible wildlife heritage. Fortunately, if we invest in this proactive plan today, we can conserve wildlife and vital natural areas for future generations.

A Powerful Coalition to Conserve our Wildlife Heritage

More than 180 organizations and businesses from across Iowa have come together to spread the word about the Iowa Wildlife Action Plan and to secure the funding it needs for success. YOU CAN HELP by joining the coalition, engaging organizations in your community and urging our elected officials to support the federal State Wildlife Grants Program and legislation providing long-term, dedicated funding for wildlife conservation and related education and recreation.

In Action

Iowa Funding Study Committee to Develop Legislative Proposal

In January, Iowa's Sustainable Natural Resource Funding Advisory Committee submitted a report to the legislature proposing an additional $150 million annually to fund Iowa's Natural Resources. Unfortunately, only small gain of $4.5 M was subsequently realized in the state's Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) funding, without any dedicated protection. The committee was reauthorized for another year and may now focus upon formulating bill language to appropriate and dedicate full funding. Multiple funding sources will be examined in more detail, including a fractional percentage of state sales tax, increased lottery or gaming (casino) revenues, and other ideas suggested in the first report.

• How You Can Help
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources Website
   

• Endorsement Form
• Summary of Iowa's Wildlife Action Plan
   

• State Wildlife Grants in Action: On the Boone River
• State Wildlife Grants in Action: Helping Reptiles & Amphibians