On Nature: David Voigts

Iowa has many tracts of natural lands, both public and privately owned, scattered in a sea of corn and soybeans. These lands are important for outdoor recreation, habitat for wildlife and plants, and for scenic vistas and trails. In addition, studies by the Iowa Economic Development Authority have shown that natural landscapes and outdoor recreation are among the top five factors that influence a person’s decision of where to live. Publicly owned lands are especially important because they are accessible to everyone.

With the demonstrated importance of natural lands, the obvious question is, “Do We have enough?” According to a recent article in Iowa Natural Heritage magazine, we need more public lands to sustain our wildlife and native vegetation communities, for outdoor recreation, to improve water quality, and to attract and retain a workforce.

If additional public lands are needed, what are we to do? Iowa’s Department of Natural Resources has provided guidance in their Wildlife Action Plan. However, implementing the plan requires adequate funding. Funding could come from the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund that was established by Iowa voters in 2010 but will not be funded until the legislature increases the sales tax by $0.00375. Let’s do it.

David Voigts is a retired ecologist and the current Conservation Chair for the Prairie Rapids Audubon Society. He is a Tama County native, graduating from Dinsdale High School, and lives in rural Jesup on his wife’s family farm.