Biological Diversity Policy

Iowa does not have a formal biodiversity policy, although a bill was introduced into the 1995 legislature stating that the policy and goal of the state is to preserve biodiversity, (H.F. 467) establishing educational programs and requiring a status report from the state ecologist. The bill is currently pending. In addition, by statute, the general policy of the state is to protect its natural resources for the benefit of future and present generations. (Iowa Code Ann. 455A.16) It is also state policy by statute to conserve soil and water resources in order to preserve wildlife. (Iowa Code Ann. 161A.2)

Status of Biodiversity Science

Iowa does not have a coordinated assessment system in place. Instead, the state relies primarily on its Natural Heritage Database. Although GAP was scheduled to begin in 1995, it has not begun due to funding problems. The state also utilizes smaller scale mapping projects.

Endangered Species

Iowa has an endangered species law that protects animals and plants. (Iowa Code Ann. 481 B.1 et seq.) Listing is on the basis of scientific and commercial data. The law does not require recovery actions, agency consultation or critical habitat designation, although land acquisition is authorized. Penalties include a misdemeanor citation plus up to $1,000 in fines.

State Agency Management for Biodiversity

State-owned Lands

Several agencies plan and manage their lands to promote sustainability. The Park, Recreation and Preserves Division is preparing an ecosystem management plan to cover all state parks and recreation areas. The Wildlife Division prepares ecosystem management plans for each wildlife area, and the Forestry Division is updating ecosystem management plans for each state forest.

Cooperative Efforts

Iowa has some cooperative efforts with various entities to improve land management across ownership boundaries. For example, the Department of Natural Resources has four reservoir projects with the U.S. Corps of Engineers to increase fish and wildlife sustainability.

State Agency Training

Iowa does not have identified programs of agency personnel training for biodiversity.

Impact Assessment

Iowa does not have a "little NEPA," requiring assessment of proposed agency impacts on biological resources. However, the Department of Natural Resources generally assesses activities such as road projects, power lines, and pipelines for adverse environmental impacts. In addition, a statute provides that work on highways must not cause unnecessary destruction of the "natural or historic heritage" of the state. (Iowa Code Ann. 314.23-24)

Habitat Acquisition

Iowa has several programs designed to acquire lands important because of their wildlife values. The Resource Enhancement and Protection Act is used for wetland acquisitions, using general legislative appropriations. (Iowa Code Ann. 455A.15 et seq.) Funding for projects is currently seven million, although appropriations have been cut back. The Wildlife Habitat Stamp program generates $600,000 per year (Iowa Code Ann. 483A.3), while the State Duck Stamp program generates $150,000 per year. Finally, an income tax check-off also provides funds for wildlife habitat acquisition. (Iowa Code Ann. 456A.16)

Private Land Conservation

Iowa has some private land conservation programs. Conservation easements are authorized by statute. (Iowa Code Ann. 457A.1, .2) Three programs for farmers restore wetlands, establish wildlife habitat and leave standing corn for wildlife. In addition, landowners pay no property tax if maintaining a forest, native prairie, wetland or other wildlife habitat. Another project provides landowners with technical and cost share assistance to protect and increase wetlands.

Exotic Species

Iowa has some provisions designed to control the introduction and spread of exotic species. The importation or introduction of exotic animals requires a permit from the state and is generally not encouraged. (Iowa Code Ann. 481A.47) Stocking of native and exotic fish is also prohibited in state waters without permission. (Iowa Code Ann. 481A.83) For plants, certain species are specifically prohibited from sale or distribution. Penalties for violations range from $80 to $100.

Predator or Animal Damage Control Activities

Iowa has an animal damage control program that is operated cooperatively with the federal government. The federal agency provides technical assistance for various problems, mostly migratory birds. The state deals with local problems.

Additional Legal Protections for Biodiversity

Iowa has a citizen suit provision authorizing actions to enforce the state's natural resources laws. (Iowa Code Ann. 455B.111)

Related Issues

Iowa participates in Projcet WILD, and published a wildlife viewing guide in 1995. In addition, Nature Speaks is a graduate workshop program at the University of Northern Iowa that provides field experiences to explore the state's diversity.

Iowa does not currently have a takings law, although two bills were introduced into the 1995 legislative session and were defeated. One bill would have established a procedure for landowners to obtain compensation for a taking of more than 50 percent of their property value.

Contacts:

Department of Agriculture and Land
Stewardship, Division of Soil Conservation
Wallace State Office Bldg.
Des Moines, IA 50319
515-281-5851

Department of Natural Resources
E. 9th and Grand Ave.
Wallace Building
Des Moines, IA 50319-0034
515-281-5145

State Extension Services
103 Science II
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011
515-294-7429