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Iowa Nature Summit 2026

Threats and Opportunities for Our Nature

November 18-19, 2026 at Drake University - Des Moines, IA. 

Join Iowa's leading conservationists, scientists, farmers, policymakers, educators, and nature advocates for two days of meaningful conversations about the future of Iowa's natural resources.

Why This Summit? 

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Nature in Iowa is facing unprecedented challenges, from water quality and habitat loss to changing land use, emerging technologies, and a changing climate. But alongside these challenges are incredible opportunities.

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The Iowa Nature Summit brings together the people working to protect, restore, and strengthen Iowa's natural heritage. Through inspiring speakers, practical discussions, and meaningful collaboration, attendees leave with fresh ideas, valuable connections, and renewed optimism for Iowa's future.

Featured Topics: 

Water Quality

Public Health & Nature

Regenerative Agriculture

Technology & Conservation

Policy & Leadership

The Next Generation

Nature Champion Awards

Celebrating Iowa's Conservation Leaders

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Each year, the Iowa Nature Summit recognizes individuals whose dedication has made a lasting impact on Iowa's natural heritage.

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SEE PHOTOS FROM THE 2025 SUMMIT

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🌿Thank you for joining us for the 2025 Iowa Nature Summit! 🌿

We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s summit was a record-breaking success with over 230 passionate attendees! Your energy and dedication to preserving Iowa's natural beauty made this event truly unforgettable.

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View all 2025 Iowa Nature Summit event photos here

​​​​2025 Iowa Nature Summit Highlights:

  • Panels:

    • Navigating How Shifting State & National Policies Impact Nature

    • The Role of Local Governments as Nature's Advocates

    • Nature & Public Health: Cancer, Water Quality & More. 

    • Measuring Nature's Economic Impacts

    • Loving Nature to Death: Land Use Tensions & Lessons from the Great Lakes

    • Local Efforts to Protect Water Quality: Iowa's Newest Civils Rights Issue

    • Policy Opportunities for Nature in the 2026 General Assembly

    • Promoting & Protecting Wildlife in Urban Iowa

    • How Federal Farm Policy Impacts Nature, CRP, Soil Erosion, Wetlands & More​

  • 2025 Iowa Nature Champion Awards

  • Networking​​​​​​​​​​

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