Sunday, January 29, 2017

Goldfinches and Pheasants and Brook Trout, Oh My

You've seen the colorful license plates, adorned with cheerful goldfinches and wild roses, or bald eagles, bucks, pheasants, or maybe even the rare brook trout. Heck, if you're reading this you probably already have one of these license plates.  They are "Natural Resources" license plates, formerly known as REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) plates, and they are another way citizens can contribute above and beyond to support Iowa's natural resources.
Projects funded by REAP--including the Sycamore
Greenway--are enjoyed by those with two, three, and four legs.



These decorative plates cost an additional $45 for the initial purchase and $25 per year for renewal; funds go towards the REAP program as well as the Wildlife Diversity Program (which also receives funds from the Chickadee Checkoff discussed last week). The goldfinch is far and away the most popular, chosen by 3/4 of those who purchase the Natural Resources plates. 

In addition to the license plate fees, REAP is funded by state lottery and gaming receipts. The funds are distributed annually according to a standard formula, and administered through four state departments: Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Division of Soil Conservation, Department of Cultural Affairs, State Historical Society, and Department of Transportation.

The benefits of the REAP program are concrete: since its inception in 1989, Johnson County alone has received over $7 million to support more than 250 projects. In 1999, Iowa City received $200,000 in REAP funding for the South Sycamore Greenspace. Other local projects that benefited from REAP funds include the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area ($200,000 in 2011), and Ryerson's Woods ($65,000 in 1993).

I confess I have lived here for over a decade and neglected to purchase a Natural Resources plate. Until now! I just ordered my very own pheasant plate, and I can't wait to join the fleet of vehicles doing just a little bit more to support our lovely state. 
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