Join IRR for one of two Introduction to River Restoration with along with Iowa DNR fisheries staff and other local agencies. There will be several site visits as part of the field component for the workshops including sites along the Turkey and Maquoketa Rivers to observe examples of in-progress or completed river restoration projects and examples of best practices.

Natural river restoration can be an affordable and practical solution for addressing streambank erosion issues across Iowa. Eroding streambanks can mean the loss of crop buffer areas, productive farmland, and local infrastructure. In addition, streambank erosion is a major contributor to sediment and nutrients in our water. Understanding river dynamics can lead to much more cost-effective, fish and wildlife friendly solutions to these problems. River restoration also enhances aquatic ecosystems and improves river recreation, fishing, and hunting — boosting local economies and providing public health and quality of life.

These workshops are geared toward landowners, natural resource professionals, engineers, paddlers, anglers, local NRCS and RC&D agencies, county conservation employees and other interested individuals who want to learn in a classroom setting AND get out and explore.

Registration: There is no fee to participate, but advanced registration is recommended due to limited space. Please RSVP by emailing info@iowarivers.org.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016                                    Wednesday, June 29, 2016             
9:00 am – 3:00 pm                                                    9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Iowa State Extension Office                                       Big Springs Fish Hatchery       
1417 N Franklin St, Manchester, IA                           6212 Big Spring Rd, Elkader, IA