Izaak Walton League of America

In 1922, a group of concerned anglers and hunters gathered in Chicago to create an organization that would stop the destruction and degradation of America’s streams, natural areas and wildlife habitat. Today, the League continues to face down increasingly dire threats to the nation’s land, waters and natural resources including climate change, pollution and loss of habitat. As League envisions a second century of work, it’s worth noting some of its achievements since 1922, which include now-established, bedrock conservation practices, policies and laws that protect outdoor America.

For nearly a century, the League has been fighting for conservation for the Upper Mississippi, including in the Driftless Area. By promoting the transition to regenerative agriculture and reducing nutrient runoff, the Driftless Area Landscape Conservation Initiative Act would improve water quality, wildlife habitat and outdoor rec throughout this unique landscape.

A comprehensive review of research on soil health and carbon sequestration from a University of Maryland scientist shows that increasing use of common agricultural practices that improve soil health will slow climate change while producing multiple other environmental and economic benefits.

Highlights from the 2021 Izaak Walton League of America Convention, July 20-22.

Over the past 100 years, the Izaak Walton League of America has advanced some of the most effective conservation ideas in the nation’s history, shaping what would become the fundamental, bedrock laws and policies that protect our natural resources now and for generations to come.