Wetland Programs Wetlands are an important component of the Iowa natural resources. Wetlands perform several important economic, recreational, cultural and aesthetic functions. The Iowa Tribal people have historically used wetland plants for crafts, construction, food, medicines and ceremonial practices. Currently, the OES is seeking for new funds to evaluate the quality of the Iowa wetlands, monitor their conditions, and implement strategies through our wetland management plan. Projects Description: The Iowa Wetlands Education, Enrichment and Outreach Program is based on the development of a wetland habitat to illustrate the environmental functions and cultural values of wetlands. The wetland habitat will be used as "outdoor" classroom to conduct educational/outreach activities during spring and summer months for the area schools and community groups. Iowa Nature Center Our center is a wildscape demonstration site that illustrates the environmental functions and cultural values of wetlands. Wetlands are ecosystems dominated by water, either periodically, or all year round. Water lilies, reeds, rushes, and mosses characterize the landscape of these particular habitats. Their ecological and economic value is increasingly appreciated. An obvious value is the importance to wildlife and the natural products for human uses such as fish, timber, wild rice, and fiber. In fact, these environments are nature's nurseries for many plants and animals, including threatened or endangered species that live and reproduce in wetlands.    General Assistance Program Solid Waste Program Surface Water Sampling Program Cattle and Bison Program Wetland Program Air Quality Program Eagle Aviary and Rehabilitation OES Historical Background Dena Hartzell, Director of Environmental Services email: dhartzell@iowanation.org