INHF Board Spotlight: David Mackaman

Posted on November 13, 2023 in Blog

INHF Board Spotlight

This blog series highlights and acknowledges our dedicated board members. Lending their time and talents on a volunteer basis for the protection of Iowa’s land, water and wildlife, INHF’s 34-person board is an incredible show of dedication and expertise. INHF board members come from every region of the state, connecting our work with communities, landowners and organizations that help to make more conservation happen. See a full list of board members here and learn more about David Mackaman below!

David Mackaman

David Mackaman has spent his life in Des Moines, growing up and making his career as a banker in this central Iowa city. He’s been on INHF’s board since 2001, serving on various committees and holding the office of board chair.

INHF has worked on many projects in Mackaman’s tenure, but the High Trestle Trail remains a favorite for many, Mackaman included. “The High Trestle Trail — with its iconic bridge (half a mile long and 13 stories high!) spanning the Des Moines River — is a spectacular setting where people from all over the world come to experience Iowa in an unforgettable way,” Mackaman said.

The project is a good example of helping both rural and urban communities thrive, protecting nature and creating ways for people to enjoy the outdoors. All of which Mackaman cites as large components of INHF’s work.

“The bikers and walkers who use the trail are the beneficiaries of the High Trestle Trail for sure, but so are the communities that the trail passes through. It’s so gratifying to see the new businesses, restaurants, bike shops, and homes sprouting up in rural communities such as Sheldal, Slater, Madrid, and Woodward; to see the new gateway connector bridge in Ankeny link the High Trestle, Gay Lea Wilson, and Neil Smith trails; and to witness the trail’s influence on the growth of Des Moines’ workforce as a legion of young people move to the metro area because they can find both career and recreational opportunities here in central Iowa.”