Iowa Legislature Introduces Harmful Legislation Impacting Conservation Efforts

HF378

A bill for an act re...

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HF142

A bill for an act cr...

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SJR6

A joint resolution p...

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Bill ID

SJR 6

TITLE

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa by repealing the natural resources and outdoor recreation trust fund, and dedicating a portion of state revenue from sales and use taxes imposed for the benefit of property tax relief.

STATUS

Last Action on 02/19/2025: [legislature] Subcommittee recommends passage.

COMMITTEES

VERSIONS

INTRODUCED

email advocacy

Iowa Legislature Introduces Harmful Legislation Impacting Conservation Efforts

Dear [Your Elected Official],

I am writing to you as a concerned constituent, hunter, and advocate for Iowa’s natural resources, to urge you to vote "no" on three misguided bills currently being considered in the Iowa legislature: House Bill 378 (HB378), House Bill 142 (HB142), and Senate Joint Resolution 6 (SJR6). These bills—related to deer depredation, forest reserve protection, and the Natural Resources Trust Fund—pose serious risks to Iowa’s wildlife, habitat preservation, and long-term conservation efforts.

As a hunter in Iowa, I am deeply concerned about the potential expansion of antlerless harvests under HB378. Iowa already has one of the highest antlerless harvests in the Midwest, and there is no immediate need to increase these numbers further. This bill could destabilize the current management of deer populations, which is based on science and expert recommendations. I believe that seasons and bag limits for deer hunting should remain in agency rule, rather than being codified into statute, to allow for flexible adjustments based on the changing needs of the environment and wildlife populations.

Iowa’s forests are an essential part of our state’s ecosystem, and they play a critical role in sustaining biodiversity. With only 7% of Iowa’s land currently forested, we are already witnessing the loss of valuable timber and wildlife habitat. HB142 proposes changes that could further erode the small amount of forest we have left. I urge you to oppose this bill, as it would weaken protections for Iowa’s forests at a time when we need to preserve and enhance them for future generations. Protecting and maintaining our forests is key to maintaining a healthy environment and ensuring the survival of species that depend on these ecosystems.

Lastly, I have concerns about SJR6. While the bill proposes to allocate sales tax revenue for conservation efforts, it lacks critical provisions to effectively fund conservation programs. The bill does not include funding for public relations or outreach efforts to raise awareness about conservation, which makes the fund less effective at garnering public support. Without proper outreach and resources, this bill could limit the impact of conservation efforts and hinder future opportunities to protect Iowa’s wildlife and natural habitats.

As someone who cares deeply about Iowa’s wildlife, hunting opportunities, and natural resources, I respectfully urge you to vote "no" on these bills. Iowa’s wildlife and conservation programs are crucial for future generations, and we must ensure that any changes to these programs are carefully considered and based on sound science. I trust that you will make the best decision for the future of our state and its natural resources.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I appreciate your service to Iowa and look forward to hearing your position on these important issues.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your City & State]

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Summary

Iowa’s rich wildlife resources, including its beloved hunting opportunities, are currently under threat by three misguided bills in the state legislature—House Bill 378 (HB378), House Bill 142 (HB142), and Senate Joint Resolution 6 (SJR6). These bills address deer depredation, forest reserve protection, and the Natural Resources Trust Fund. If passed, these bills could severely undermine Iowa’s long-term conservation efforts, reduce hunting opportunities, and harm natural habitats. As a hunter and conservationist, your voice is needed now more than ever to protect Iowa’s wildlife and natural resources. Contact your local legislators today and urge them to vote "no" on these three bills. HB 378 - Deer Depredation The proposed deer depredation bill seeks to expand antlerless harvests across Iowa. However, current regulations have already resulted in Iowa having one of the highest antlerless harvests compared to other Midwestern states. There is no immediate need for further antlerless harvests, and such a change would risk destabilizing the current management of deer populations. The seasons and bag limits for deer hunting should remain in agency rule, rather than being codified in statute, so that they can be adjusted by wildlife experts in response to changing ecological conditions. Enacting this bill would undermine current efforts to manage depredation effectively and would harm the work of dedicated conservation staff. HB 142 - Forest Reserves Currently, only 7% of Iowa’s land is forested, and each year, we see more and more standing timber disappear. The Forest Reserve bill proposes changes that could make it even harder to maintain and protect the small amount of forest we have left. As habitat for countless species of wildlife, forests play a crucial role in sustaining Iowa’s biodiversity. Losing more of these vital ecosystems would have far-reaching consequences on our state’s wildlife populations. It's critical that we hold on to Iowa's remaining forests to ensure a healthy environment for future generations. The state must focus on enhancing forest protection and preservation, not weakening it. SJR 6 - Natural Resources Trust Fund The Natural Resources Trust Fund bill addresses the allocation of sales tax revenue into a designated fund for conservation efforts. However, this bill includes provisions that would not effectively fund conservation and could limit future opportunities for wildlife protection and habitat preservation. Although sales tax increases would deposit money into the fund, there are no provisions for public relations or marketing dollars tied to this fund, leaving it ineffective in driving public support. Without proper funding and outreach, the Trust Fund would not help to strengthen Iowa’s conservation efforts as intended, potentially stalling progress in our state’s natural resource management. Take Action Now The bills currently before the Iowa legislature pose significant risks to the future of Iowa’s hunting, wildlife, and conservation efforts. By voting "no" on these bills, legislators can help preserve Iowa’s natural resources for future generations. As hunters and conservationists, we must unite to protect the integrity of our state’s wildlife management and habitat preservation programs. Contact your local legislators today to urge them to vote “no” on these misguided bills, and make sure your voice is heard in the fight to protect Iowa’s future.

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Your State Senator and State Representative