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The US Department of Interior announced today that two projects in the state of Iowa will become part of the America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) Initiative, the Loess Hills and the establishment of a wildlife refuge in the Southern Prairie Pothole region. The plan seeks to encourage a healthy and active population, conserve wildlife and create jobs through travel and tourism. The Mississippi Bluffs region, which includes Iowa, was also named as one of seven national multi-state priorities for the AGO initiative. The report highlights a new approach to conservation for the federal government. As Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar explains, “Rather than dictate policies or conservation strategies from Washington, it supports grassroots, locally driven initiatives.” The Department of Interior recognized that this approach is already working in areas like the Loess Hills. “A strong foundation of advancing this project has been laid with conservation organizations like Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation…” Mark Ackelson, President of the INHF agrees with this approach to conservation. “I am excited about the partnership approach that the federal government is taking. Although I’m honored that INHF is mentioned in this report, our work, like that done in the Loess Hills and the Blufflands, has been successful thanks to great partnerships with local organizations and willing landowners.” Find more details about Iowa's Great Outdoors or read the AGO press release about Iowa projects (10-27-2011): Read more about the Loess Hills.
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