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DNR Issues 2010 State of the Environment Report
Posted: April 20, 2010

WINDSOR HEIGHTS - Iowa is making progress in water quality and getting Iowans outdoors, but challenges remain for pheasants in the state. This according to the 2010 State of the Environment report, released Tuesday by the DNR.

The DNR evaluated the health of the state's natural resources in eight areas: Iowans outdoors, land protection, deer, game birds, wildlife diversity, clean air, clean lakes and water quality. DNR Director Richard Leopold announced the results at Tuesday's Environmental Protection Commission meeting in Windsor Heights.

"We're pleased to see improvements in a number of areas. Yet, we have a number of challenges and much work to do, especially for wildlife habitat," said Leopold. "We'll continue to work with Iowans to build on our successes and see real changes on the landscape in the future."

Leopold pointed to a historical investment in environmental protection and natural resource development that will bolster improvement efforts.

"We've invested more than $100 million in 2009, largely a result of federal stimulus funding and the Resource Enhancement and Protection program, and it will no doubt have positive effects on our environment," Leopold added.

The report notes more Iowans are fishing, camping, boating and paddling in the state, likely a result of improved outdoor opportunities and the economy.

"Iowans have been rediscovering the beauty in their own backyards, staying close to home for vacations and weekend getaways," said DNR Deputy Director Pat Boddy. "When Iowans have the chance to experience the outdoors, they develop an appreciation for our natural resources and better understand the need to preserve and protect them."

However, fewer Iowans hunted pheasants in 2009, as the number of birds in the state continued to drop. While historically harsh winters and wet springs have taken a toll, the real issue is a major loss of habitat for pheasants. The same habitat is critical for improving ever-dwindling populations of jackrabbits, prairie chickens and other wildlife in the state.

Iowa's streams saw a slight improvement in 2009. The streams scored a 46 on the Water Quality Index, up over 40 in 2008. However, the score still remains in the "poor" category of the index. The Iowa Water Quality Index works by measuring different factors that affect fish and aquatic life, drinking water, recreation and aesthetics. Monitors collect data monthly from 75 sites on major Iowa rivers.

The full State of the Environment report is available on the DNR Web site at www.iowadnr.gov/status.html.