(Honey Creek) Iowans who are passionate about protecting the state’s natural resources are invited to set priorities for the State of Iowa’s Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program on Saturday, June 13th at 10:30 a.m. at Hitchcock Nature Center at 27792 Ski Hill Loop in Honey Creek, IA.
Attendees will learn how REAP funding has transformed communities across Cass County, Harrison County, Pottawattamie County, and Shelby County, connect with like-minded citizens who are interested in natural and cultural resource work, and have an opportunity to share how REAP can better serve their community and region. Input will form the basis of regional recommendations and inform each county’s 5-year REAP plan.
Per Iowa Law, this is also an official opportunity to review REAP expenditures and recommend changes to state policy. Those present will elect five delegates to carry these ideas to REAP Congress, held on August 29, 2026, at the Iowa State Capitol.
Pottawattamie Conservation has been the grateful recipient of more than $1.8 million in REAP program funds that have supported park expansion, environmental education, and habitat improvement projects at Hitchcock Nature Center.
“Funding from Iowa’s REAP program has been instrumental in protecting this ecologically significant area of the Loess Hills for future generations,” said Pottawattamie Conservation executive director Jeff Franco. “This assembly is an important opportunity for Iowans to share their vision for improving quality of life and the physical, ecological, and economic health of their communities.”
Those interested in attending should meet in the Goldfinch Room at Hitchcock Nature Center’s Loess Hills Lodge at 10:30 a.m. Light refreshments will be provided. Programming will conclude around noon.
Pre-registration is not required but is encouraged and will help park staff plan for seating and refreshments. Online registration is available now at www.pottconservation.com.
REAP Assembly attendees do not need to pay park entry fees.
