Izaak Walton League of America

The Resolution recognizes the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish refuge for its “significant contributions to wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and scientific research” and “the dedication of local conservationists.” It also encourages “continued support for the conservation and management of the Upper Mississippi River ecosystem. 

Congress must pass a Farm Bill this year that meets the moment—one that prioritizes soil health, water quality and our climate. The House Agriculture Committee’s draft is a good first step and includes priorities developed by the Izaak Walton League, but the Committee can make improvements to drive adoption of conservation practices that will benefit us all.”

The Izaak Walton League is fighting for a Farm Bill that meets the moment—one that prioritizes soil health, water quality, and climate action. There is no time to wait for this important legislation.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, performer Steven Marking created a film, “A Visit from Will Dilg." In his one-man show, Marking narrates the dramatic story of the Refuge, drawing on Dilg’s own words.

The campaign to protect the upper Mississippi didn’t just establish the largest wildlife refuge of its time, it created the template for the modern conservation movement that helped produce a wave of grassroots actions that would ultimately drive dozens of major conservation achievements in the decades that followed.