Iowa Department of Natural Resources Updates

Migratory bird hunters reminded to register for HIP

All hunters who pursue migratory game birds are required to register for Harvest Information Program (HIP) either through the Go Outdoors Iowa app on their smartphone, through a link at www.iowadnr.gov/waterfowl or at www.gooutdoorsiowa. com.

Migratory game birds mean more than ducks and geese; in Iowa it includes mourning doves, ducks, geese, coots, doves, woodcock, rails, and snipe.

Once registered, hunters will need to write a confirmation number on their license, print an updated copy of their license with the confirmation or take a screenshot of their confirmation on their phone to show proof of registration.

Requiring a confirmation number will allow the DNR to better track migratory bird hunters – a federal requirement

Fall community trout stocking starts October 18

stockings are a great place to take kids to catch their first fish. A small hook with a night crawler or corn under a small bobber or small simple spinners, such as a Panther Martin or Mepps, is all you need to get in on the fun.

Bringing trout to cities and towns offers a “close to home” option for Iowans who might not travel to northeast Iowa to discover trout fishing. A family-friendly event is often paired with the stocking to help anglers have success and fun while fishing. Check the Iowa DNR Trout Fishing website to see which lakes are having events.

The popular program is supported by the sales of the trout fee. Anglers need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. The daily limit is five trout per licensed angler with a possession limit of 10.

Children age 15 or younger can fish for trout with a properly licensed adult, but they must limit their catch to one daily limit. The child can purchase a trout fee which will allow them to catch their own limit.

Area 2024 Fall Community Trout Stocking Schedule:

Oct. 18, Moorland Pond, Fort Dodge, Noon

Nov. 5, Scharnberg Pond, Spencer, Noon

Nov. 5, Bacon Creek, Sioux City, 1:30 p.m.

Find more information about trout fishing in community lakes on the DNR trout fishing webpage.

Grants available for community tree plantings

Through the USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received funds for tree planting grants for communities.

The Iowa Tree Planting Grant provides reimbursable grants to purchase trees, mulch, tree staking/protection and supplemental watering by contractor or city staff. The grant is a two-year program allowing for planting to take place in the spring and fall of 2025 and 2026.

Grant funding is competitive, non-match, and awarded in amounts between $10,000 to $30,000 per applicant.

The Iowa Tree Planting grants are available to community governmental entities, volunteer organizations, and service organizations involved with local urban and community forest services, to plant trees on publicly owned properties within the community to diversify the tree canopy, increase tree benefits, and help disadvantaged populations with energy costs and health disparities, and increase access to parks and nature.

To apply, go to the Iowa DNR Urban Forestry website. Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. Award recipients will be notified by Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025.