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Landowner Recognition Ceremony Slated for Monday, April 6th at Iowa Capitol
Posted: April 3, 2009

DES MOINES - More than 40 landowners in Iowa have committed to conservation-related protection of 3,500 acres of land representing contributions valued at more than $4 million in 2008.

Most impressive of all is the length of their commitment: forever.

"It's hard to know where to even start thanking these landowners and what they have contributed to Iowa's citizens and natural resources," said Mark Ackelson, president of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.

At least one small step of gratitude will be taken on Monday, April 6th when the landowners will be recognized by state officials at a landowner recognition ceremony in Room 116 of the Iowa Capitol, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ackelson said the recognition of landowners making donations to permanently protect vital natural resources is long overdue.

"Many, many citizens have stepped up over the years to make significant donations of land for the benefit of all Iowa's citizens and future generations. We are eternally grateful for their vision, leadership and selflessness in providing permanent conservation protection to some of the most environmentally significant land in our state," said Ackelson.

In all, 41 landowners chose to permanently protect their natural lands in 2008, contributing some or all of their land value. Land contributions last year included:\

• Additions to current parks and wildlife areas at nine sites by 14 different landowners.
  
  
• New trails, preservation of native prairie and creation of new wildlife areas were accomplished through contributions by seven landowners.
  
  
• 20 landowners permanently protected 13 sites that will remain in private ownership. (Even though most of these private conservation easements are not open to public use, they still provide substantial public benefit in terms of wildlife habitat, improvement to water quality and preservation of scenic views).