Story County voters showed large support for conservation in November, voting to pass the Story County Water and Land Legacy (SCWLL) bond initiative with 77.75% approval! Story County Conservation (SCC) is thankful to have such strong support across the community. The $25 million bond initiative is dedicated to enhancing water quality, improving parks and trails, and preserving natural resources.
SCC is committed to maximizing impacts of the investment Story County residents voted to provide. SCC will leverage the bond by utilizing contributions from private donors, grant funding and community partnerships. Excited to keep the momentum alive, SCC took no pause between election day and project progress. SCC has matching grants and funding for initial projects, and several are already moving forward:
Restoration of oxbows near Story City will provide increased flood retention along the South Skunk River during times of heavy rain, an impact of climate change Iowa is seeing more frequently. Natural resource restorations on site will improve water quality, increase biodiversity and provide valuable habitat for waterfowl and other aquatic species during times of drought.
Funding (and technical assistance): U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, SCWLL and SCC Partners.
Hannum’s Mill
The north half of this dam will be removed, creating a safer passage along this section for both paddlers and wildlife, like fish and mussels. Streambank stabilization and natural resource improvements will also be a part of this project. This partial dam removal project is in the design engineering phase.
Funding: Iowa DNR, SCWLL and private donations.
SCC took title to this family legacy property in early 2024 and began prairie restoration and resource enhancements last summer. Grant funding will now combine with bond funds to construct a picnic shelter, parking area and eventually a trail system. SCC anticipates the park opening to the public in 2027.
Funding: Land and Water Conservation Fund, SC General Basic, USFWS, and SCWLL.
Plans are being drawn for a year-round rental cabin with room for 6-8 guests at this multi-use recreational park in Zearing. SCC is in the design engineering phase of this project and hopes to complete it in 2025-26. Funding: SCC camping revenue, SCC Partners and SCWLL.
For more information or a complete list of bond projects, click here.
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