Iowa

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Iowa Department of Natural Resources (http://www.iowadnr.gov)
This is the state agency responsible for the conservation and management of natural resources including wildlife and aquatic resources. Sources of information on threatened and endangered species include:

The Natural Areas Inventory (http://www.iowadnr.gov/other/inventory.html)
This program provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. County lists of threatened and endangered species are available for download. **Site-specific reviews are available free of charge.

State Wildlife Action Plan (http://www.iowadnr.gov/wildlife/diversity/plan.html)
In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan, to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

State Historical Society of Iowa (http://www.iowahistory.org/index.html)
This organization preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of Iowa. Programs of interest include:

Historic Preservation (http://www.iowahistory.org/historic-preservation/index.html)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Iowa Site Inventory contains information on architectural, historical and National Register listed archaeological properties around the state. Site inventory files are in the process of being converted digitally. For now, you can direct questions to the Inventory Coordinator.

State Archives and Records Program (http://www.iowahistory.org/archives/index.html)
The State Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Office of the State Archaeologist (http://www.uiowa.edu/~osa/)
The Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) is the primary source of information on the prehistoric and historic archaeology of Iowa. The office works to protect and preserve archaeological sites and objects, including human burial sites. The OSA works with the Historical Society of Iowa to maintain a database of archaeological sites in the state. Site information is provided to the professional and avocational archaeological community, as well as to agencies and developers on a case-by-case basis.

Natural Resources Conservation Service- Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The Cultural Resources Directory can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator.

Best Management Practices