Watersheds and Wildlife

The Watersheds and Wildlife Program works to improve water quality in rivers and lakes and to restore habitat for Iowa’s imperiled pollinators and wildlife.  We accomplish this work through robust education, monitoring, and partnership-building activities.  Much of this work has been focused on Story, Boone, and Hamilton counties, but we are open to projects in other parts of the state.

Story County Water Monitoring & Interpretation Plan 2021-2030

Many creeks and lakes are not monitored by state agencies.  Water quality monitoring with our local partners is filling the gap in Story County and is guiding conservation efforts. The drought made 2021 a challenging year for monitoring but we’re learning how to control for weather in order to better see the influence of land management on water.  Read our annual report or a quick summary of our findings.

Over 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of bees, along with many other species found in Iowa, need your attention.

Our goal is to create diverse habitats, and plant native prairies and grasslands to restore pollinator, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian populations while improving soil health.

  

We are working with landowners to provide for Iowa’s pollinators and wildlife by mapping and cataloging flyways and ecosystems, assisting with small to large landowner habitat design, providing conservation assistance, harvesting and providing native seeds while conducting environmental outreach and education.

What matters is the actions we are taking plus the information and relationships we have assembled puts local government, landowners, and our many partners in a good position to tackle these challenges!

Clover Lawns: Is the Trend Lucky for Pollinators?

Clover Lawns: Is the Trend Lucky for Pollinators?

The idea of creating a pollinator-friendly yard is finally taking root, and the idea of a perfect lawn, along with its expense, is being weeded out. Clover lawns are one of the latest trends yard-owners are trying out in an effort to be more environmentally conscious. This new kind of lawn is often touted to support pollinators, require less maintenance, and lower pollution. But do they live up to the hype?

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Pollinator Conservation Specialist Jessica Butters

Jessica Butters
Pollinator Conservation Specialist

Dan Haug
Water Quality Specialist

Contact Watersheds and Wildlife
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