Posts in category Blog Posts

INHF works statewide, traveling to every corner of Iowa to protect cherished places, steward sensitive landscapes, advocate for nature. As an entirely donor-supported, nonprofit, accredited land trust, the organization’s structure and function differs from many other conservation organizations across the state. But not across the nation. As a member of the Land Trust Alliance (LTA) — a nationwide network of nearly 950 land trusts — INHF staff have the opportunity to connect with other land trusts at Rally. 

Once a vital part of survival, foraging has become more of a hobby than a necessity. Foraging is a good way to get a greater understanding of the plants that make up your local environment.

While feeding ducks and other waterfowl may seem like a peaceful, harmless outing, there are hidden dangers that come with feeding these birds. Learn about why feeding could hurt these creatures, how they find their own food, and some healthier alternatives.

Shh… Have you ever spent time outdoors and wished you could see more wildlife? Think about the way you walk, talk and smell. Learn how to move through the nature unnoticed to increase your likelihood of spotting wildlife up close.

INHF pursues an opportunity to protect a coldwater trout stream adjacent to Manchester Fish Hatchery.

As more Iowans look to us to steward their land, INHF focuses on strategic growth in our land stewardship program. 

Take a peek inside the journal notes from a conservation easement monitoring visit at Hunt Farm Prairie.

Looking for a new way to spend time outside? Grab some paper, markers or crayons and head outdoors! It’s time to become a nature poet!

Meet our 2026 summer interns! With 20 interns out in the field and four in the Des Moines office, INHF is pleased to introduce this group of young hands and voices making a difference this summer. 

Have you ever seen Iowa’s biggest native mammal, the bison? They can be hard to find even though they’re so big. If you visit one of Iowa’s bison herds this year, play this “I Spy” game with your friends and family to spot some of the ways bison keep prairies healthy. If you’re playing along at home, don’t worry! You can still spot parts of Iowa’s native prairies and imagine how a bison would help a prairie grow in your yard.

The 2026 Iowa Legislature adjourned on May 3 and throughout the session, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation worked to advocate for the land, water, and wildlife. Together, we forged connections with lawmakers, partners, and new voices to understand the ways that our natural resources impact our lives and communities.

Despite first appearances, prairies aren’t just made of grass. There’s much more out there on the wide-open plains. Broadly, prairie vegetation falls into four categories: grasses, sedges, rushes, and forbs. So, how do you tell what’s what?