2025 Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference

AUTHORS: David D. Hoffman, Widlife Research Technician, Iowa Department of Natural Resources

ABSTRACT: A primary mission of the Iowa DNR: To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations. A primary objective in achieving this is by protecting and restoring habitat. “Trumpet the Cause for Wetlands” is one of the wildlife and habitat restoration slogans. It is one method being utilized to connect, empower and instill an ownership with the people we serve. Trumpeter swans serve as excellent ambassadors for promoting wetland values, water quality, the environment, and enriching the quality of life. Over 450 swan releases and 40 winter swan viewing events “Swan Soiree” have been conducted by IADNR and county conservation staff. School children, media, legislators and the public have been invited to attend. The goal is to educate, engage and connect people with the Trumpeters and especially their habitat. An estimated 5,000-15,000 students and public have been impacted annually since 1995. Observed results have included a greater awareness, appreciation and empowerment. This has translated into additional wetland habitat acres being restored, improved water quality at restoration sites and increased wildlife populations including Trumpeter swans. Donations have also been received at these events to help support swan and wetland restoration. Money has come from a wide variety of swan enthusiasts, conservation groups, and charities. When combined with considerable soft match/in-kind contributions, a conservative estimate totaling over 1.5 million dollars has been raised to directly to fund swan and habitat reintroduction in Iowa. Additional outreach includes a Trumpeter swan and wetland education and activity manual. The manual was developed in 1996 has been distributed to Iowa school teachers and recently updated and offered for nationwide distribution. The public outreach effort has been a huge success by raising awareness in regards to these magnificent birds, habitat and by providing critical funding to carry out the work. It is important to engage, connect, empower and ultimately instill an ownership of our natural resources with the public. How do we measure this value? During challenging times with budget and staff cuts, outreach and education is often a low priority, plus many employees are not often skilled, educated or feel comfortable with this type of public involvement. People protect what they value. How do we better connect and empower the public and Gen Alpha to value and protect habitat?