Trees Forever Volunteers and Partners Advocate for Critical Needs for Trees & Woodlands

Please talk with your Iowa state legislators about the need to fund $3.8 million dollars in proactive funding to address Emerald Ash Borer and other forest health issues. Funding will provide grants and help to communities along with direct assistance to landowners. To find out how to contact your legislators, click  here. A recent report from State Forester Paul Tauke’s office noted that the Iowa’s wood products industry generates over $3.9 BILLION annually in Iowa, employing a staggering 18,000 people with an annual payroll of $916 million.

Thanks to the dozens of volunteers and advocates from across Iowa who turned out last week for the annual Iowa’s Woodlands & Trees Education and Lobby Day at the State Capitol on February 10 to encourage legislators to protect Iowa's natural areas. Trees Forever co-hosted the event with the newly-formed Coalition for Iowa’s Woodlands and Trees.

We are all concerned that the Midwest is threatened by at least four major pests and diseases: Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Gypsy Moth, Thousand Cankers Disease (affects Walnut trees), and Bur Oak Blight. The advocates noted that the Coalition’s $3.8 million-request was just a drop in the bucket compared to the potential costs that the state, counties and local communities could face if these pests are allowed to ravage the state unchecked. The Emerald Ash Borer alone will cost Iowa communities over $2 billion!

Citing a recent report from the State Forester’s office showing the significant negative economic impact that these tree pests and diseases would have on the state’s wood products industry, woodland and tree advocates met with their state legislators to encourage them to reverse a trend of declining funding for forestry efforts in Iowa.

Attendees at the Capitol also specifically asked their state senators and representatives to fund a new Woodland and Tree Invasive Species Protection Program, and to invest in an existing, but long-dormant, Forest Land Enhancement Program.