Status of Biodiversity Science Iowa does not have a coordinated assessment system in place. Instead, the state relies primarily on its Natural Heritage Database. Although GAP was scheduled to begin in 1995, it has not begun due to funding problems. The state also utilizes smaller scale mapping projects. Iowa has an endangered species law that protects animals and plants.
Listing is on the basis of scientific and commercial data.
The law does not require recovery actions, agency consultation or critical habitat designation, although land acquisition is authorized. State Agency Management for Biodiversity State-owned Lands Several agencies plan and manage their lands to promote sustainability. The Park, Recreation and Preserves Division is preparing an ecosystem management plan to cover all state parks and recreation areas. The Wildlife Division prepares ecosystem management plans for each wildlife area, and the Forestry Division is updating ecosystem management plans for each state forest. Cooperative Efforts Iowa has some cooperative efforts with various entities to improve land management across ownership boundaries.