Litter is on the decline
Litter in Iowa is on the decline, according to new surveys from Keep Iowa Beautiful, an organization committed to keeping our communities clean, healthy and attractive. Over the past 12 years, nearly...
View ArticleREAP preserves Iowa’s natural resources
In honor of the 25th anniversary of Iowa’s popular Resource Enhancement and Protection Program (REAP), the Legislature overwhelmingly approved a record $25 million in funding this year. Unfortunately,...
View ArticleHelp set water quality goals for Iowa
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is hosting six public input meetings as part of its three-year review of water quality standards and goals. This is your opportunity to share your views on...
View Article2015 Iowa Senate Democratic chairs and members
Democratic Members of the Iowa Senate’s Standing Committees Effective January 12, 2015 Agriculture 13 members Seng –Chair Ragan –Vice Chair Bowman Brase Hart Kinney Sodders Taylor Appropriations 21...
View ArticleCollege students can help businesses reduce pollution
College students are invited to apply for the 2015 Pollution Prevention Intern Program. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources provides funding for the summer internships and matches volunteer host...
View Article2014 Session Focus: Bipartisan work will move Iowa forward
The Democratic leaders of the Iowa Legislature toured the state on Monday to discuss their goals for the 2015 legislative session which begins on January 12th in Des Moines. “Right now in Iowa,...
View ArticleMarketing workshops to help natural resource groups
Solid waste agencies and natural resource organizations are invited to attend one of three upcoming marketing workshops. The workshops, held by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, will run from 9...
View ArticleTrees for Kids grants available for spring
Through March 2, grant applications are being accepted for “Trees for Kids” grants, which pay up to $5,000 for landscape trees and mulch for schools and communities to involve youth in planting trees...
View ArticleLandowners can improve pheasant habitat
Landowners in Iowa’s pheasant counties can get funding to restore their habitat with help from the Iowa Pheasant Recovery – State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) program. It is a new U.S....
View ArticleWater quality improvements expand, gain attention
Improving Iowa’s water quality has been a top priority for the Legislature in recent years. New updates tell us how our investments are paying off and where we need to step up our efforts. Researchers...
View ArticleEnsuring clean air for good health & economic growth
Businesses and Iowans depend on the work of the air quality bureau in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to protect the health of Iowans by ensuring that air emissions meet the standards set out...
View ArticleEnsuring clean air for good health & economic growth
Businesses and Iowans depend on the work of the air quality bureau in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to protect the health of Iowans by ensuring that air emissions meet the standards set out...
View ArticleResource guide for ash tree owners
The Emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in 21 Iowa counties, creating increasing concerns for tree owners around the state. The Emerald Ash Borer is a small, green invasive wood boring beetle...
View ArticleInvesting in natural resources, water quality
The Senate Ways & Means Committee has approved legislation to fulfill the state’s commitment to provide sustainable funding for natural resources and outdoor recreation. SF 504 would increase the...
View Article2015 Session Highlights
Download a PDF of our 2015 highlights. This year, Senate Democrats fought to provide greater economic security for Iowa families by standing up for workers and investing in skills training, job...
View ArticleExpanding outdoor recreation in Iowa
Iowa’s parks, recreation areas and open spaces contribute to our state’s environmental, physical, emotional and social wellbeing while bolstering the economy. A 2012 report on the Economic Value of...
View ArticleWidespread support for water quality improvements
Improving Iowa’s water quality has been a top priority in recent years, and investments are paying off. We have reduced sediment entering our waterways and lowered phosphorus levels, but nitrate levels...
View ArticleClean air for health & economic growth
We depend on the work of the air quality bureau at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to ensure clean Iowa air that meets standards set out in law. Iowa businesses turn to the bureau to help...
View ArticleHomegrown fuel is good for Iowa
Iowa has a generous supply of energy producing resources. In addition to wind and our emerging solar industry, Iowa is a leader in homegrown biofuels, which expand markets for farmers, support rural...
View ArticleIowa’s wind & sun create clean energy
Iowa is a leader in clean energy. Since 1983, Iowa has had laws on the books requiring major utilities to provide a portion of their energy from renewables. Over the years, clean energy has created...
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