(Des Moines) During a press conference at Lake Ahquabi State Park near Indianola, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued an executive order establishing the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation. The office will be a branch of the Iowa Tourism Office, which is a division of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IDEA).
“Across Iowa, we’re seeing how outdoor recreation is shaping the story of our communities and driving economic growth,” said Debi Durham, director of the IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority. “Experiences like trails, parks and water access aren’t just amenities – they’re what draw visitors, support local businesses and create the kind of places where people want to live and work. By aligning this work with our tourism efforts, the Office of Outdoor Recreation will help communities turn these assets into lasting economic opportunity.”
Executive Order 19 was created to support and grow Iowa’s outdoor recreation sector while protecting the state’s natural landscape for future generations. It also creates a centralized framework for public and private stakeholders to work together, strengthen partnerships, and promote coordinated growth in outdoor recreation.
“Today is a huge moment for Iowa and a landmark moment for the outdoor recreation economy nationwide,” said Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs at Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “With Iowa becoming the 25th state to establish an outdoor recreation office, we are seeing undeniable momentum behind the idea that outdoor recreation drives economic growth, supports small businesses and rural communities, improves public health and strengthens quality of life.”
Kayla Lyon, Director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, also announced the 2026 Iowa State Passport. For the past seven years, the passport has been an interactive way for Iowans and visitors to explore state parks.
