How can I help protect the
Upper Iowa River

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You can help minimize development, protect rare and endangered plant life, increase wildlife habitat, and ensure that the Upper Iowa River area remains scenic and naturally beautiful--with a gift to the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.

Right now, seven new land protection projects are in discussion, touching nearly 900 acres of the Upper Iowa River watershed. We need your help to protect:

a site downstream from Kendallville, where both sides of the river plus more than 300 acres of the land you see from the river would be protected.

  as much as 160 acres of the viewshed of the Upper Iowa  River just upstream from Decorah

  an important segment of Coldwater Creek within 2 miles of its  entry into the Upper Iowa.

We need to raise $100,000 this year from people like you for the Upper Iowa River. Gifts like yours will go into action now, to:

establish at least two new conservation easements. Most of the Upper Iowa River can best be protected through   conservation easements, which allow the land to remain in private ownership while ensuring the land will not be developed or abused in the future.

act quickly when very special lands are offered for
 sale--especially those that have endangered species,
excellent habitats, or good potential for public access to the river.

Your gift will be matched immediately, dollar for dollar, by the Alliant Energy Foundation--then leveraged many more times. With $100,000 in private contribution, we'll be able to establish conservation easements valued at many times that amount. Also, because most major grants for land purchases require private matching funds, your gift can help us attract up to four times its value in new grants for Upper Iowa River protection.

If you contribute $25 or more to the Upper Iowa River this year, you'll also receive a free introductory membership with full INHF member benefits.

To contribute, mail our Project Contribution Form with your check to the INHF office. Or, call 1-800-475-1846 during business hours to arrange a gift using your Visa or Mastercard. If you have questions about giving to the Upper Iowa, contact Anita O'Gara, INHF Director of Development and Communications, at aogara@inhf.org.

Our work is urgent, but our accomplishments are long-lasting.The natural vistas you protect and enjoy today will last for future generations. We invite you to contribute now to protect the Upper Iowa River.