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.
The Open Spaces Protection component of the REAP program, which constitutes 28% of REAP funds, is dedicated to the acquisition and development of lands and waters by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the state of Iowa. A policy mandates that half of these funds are directed towards land acquisition and the other half towards facility developments. Additionally, 10% of this allocation supports a cost-share arrangement for land acquisitions with private organizations, where REAP covers 75% of the costs and the remaining 25% is supplemented by private contributions, fostering collaboration with private conservation organizations in expanding outdoor recreation opportunities and protecting critical habitats. A portion of the funds is also reserved for the state's Protected Water Areas (PWA) program, aimed at preserving the scenic and natural qualities of land along designated rivers.