(City of Iowa City news release)
Iowa City has received a $200,000 REAP grant for ecological restoration work at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area.
The grant funds will be used to remove invasive species and promote woodland restoration in the area of Terry Trueblood, 579 McCollister Boulevard, between the lake and the Iowa River.
Similar REAP grants were received in 2017 and 2018 for ecological restoration work in Hickory Hill Park. The Iowa City 2017 Natural Areas Plan prioritized these sites as unique and important natural areas for Iowa City residents.
REAP invests in projects that enhance and protect Iowa’s natural and cultural resources: 15% of REAP is set aside for grants to cities, 20% is set aside for county conservation boards. The money assists projects that help establish natural areas, while also encouraging outdoor recreation and resource management.
In its 30 years, REAP has benefited every county in Iowa by supporting over 16,000 projects. REAP has funded these projects with nearly $300 million in state investments, leveraging two to three times the amount in private, local, and federal dollars.
Collectively, these projects have improved the quality of life for all Iowans with better soil and water quality, added outdoor recreation opportunities, sustained economic development, enhanced knowledge and understanding of our ecological and environmental assets, and preservation of our cultural and historic treasures.
To see other area projects assisted by REAP, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.
