DNR News Releases

Search for a News Release

Press/Media inquiries: PIO@dnr.iowa.gov

DNR News Releases

Archive by tag: COVID-19Return

Expiration of Public Health Proclamation & DNR’s COVID-19 Compliance and Enforcement Protocol

• 2/17/2022 8:46:00 AM
• View Count 1821

The state’s Public Health Disaster Emergency Proclamation expired at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15, 2022. Concurrently the DNR’s COVID-19 Compliance and Enforcement Protocol also expired.

Iowa State Parks open more facilities across the state

• 6/2/2020 11:43:00 AM
• View Count 4747

DES MOINES, IA – This week, more facilities are open in Iowa state parks according to the Governor’s proclamation.

DNR encourages safety for those planning to enjoy Iowa’s natural resources this holiday weekend

• 5/21/2020 11:02:00 AM
• View Count 4610

DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Memorial Day holiday weekend is fast approaching and is expected to be a busy one, despite Covid-19.

Modern restrooms, cabins will open Memorial Day weekend in Iowa state parks

• 5/20/2020 11:47:00 AM
• View Count 15119

DES MOINES, IA -- Iowa state parks will open modern restrooms, shower buildings and cabins starting Friday, May 22 in time for Memorial Day weekend. This means campgrounds will be open for all campers, including RVs, pop-ups and tent camping. Youth group campsites will remain closed.

Stay safe paddling this Memorial Day holiday weekend

• 5/19/2020 1:29:00 PM
• View Count 2932

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds paddlers to stay safe and follow physical distancing guidelines to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Getting outdoors after being indoors for such a long time is a fun and healthy option to start summer activities.

Iowa state parks extend closures into May

• 4/24/2020 3:26:00 PM
• View Count 17258

The DNR is extending closures of campgrounds and other park facilities through May 14, 2020 to help protect the health of visitors and staff during the COVID-19 health emergency. State parks and forests remain open for day-use opportunities, but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in groups.

Stay safe this spring fishing season

• 4/9/2020 10:40:00 AM
• View Count 2402

As temperatures warm up this spring, many Iowans are wondering if they can still fish in light of the COVID-19 health emergency. The answer is yes, but be careful and responsible.

New changes for Iowa state parks due to COVID-19; campgrounds close

• 4/7/2020 2:05:00 PM
• View Count 18672

With the latest closures by Governor Reynolds to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa, we are announcing new changes to park operations, including the closing of campgrounds for recreational use through April 30, 2020.

Public boats ramps and fishing accesses are still open - stay safe and keep physical distance

• 4/7/2020 12:35:00 PM
• View Count 7944

While public boat ramps and fishing accesses are still open across Iowa, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds boaters to abide by the physical distancing protocols recommended by the state to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Iowa fishing and hunting regulations not affected by COVID-19

• 3/31/2020 12:32:00 PM
• View Count 3423

Iowa's hunting and fishing regulations are not affected by the current COVID-19 health emergency in Iowa. Despite rumors on social media channels, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has no plans to eliminate seasons, relax regulations or change license prices.

Iowa state parks reduce some amenities as part of COVID-19 response

• 3/28/2020 1:42:00 PM
• View Count 10610

Iowa state parks are continuing to look at ways to help protect the health of visitors and staff during the COVID-19 health emergency. Iowa state parks are still open. However, please be aware of the following operational changes, effectively immediately, before visiting a state park.

Air Quality Bureau provides flexibility on certain requirements

• 3/27/2020 8:18:00 AM
• View Count 2202

The Air Quality Bureau will be exercising state enforcement discretion for certain regulatory requirements to assist businesses and industry in managing their operations during the coronavirus pandemic.

Staying safe during Iowa’s spring turkey seasons and spring fishing

• 3/24/2020 12:03:00 PM
• View Count 12573

Protecting yourself during the COVID-19 national pandemic starts with following the guidance from our state and national health experts – maintain at least six feet between each other, wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, cover your cough, stay home if you feel sick and avoid groups of 10 or more people. These are unprecedented times and personal health and safety takes top priority.

Iowa fishing and hunting regulations not affected by COVID-19

• 3/24/2020 12:01:00 PM
• View Count 8935

Iowa's hunting and fishing regulations are not affected by the current COVID-19 health emergency in Iowa. Despite rumors on social media channels, the DNR has no plans to eliminate seasons, relax regulations or change license prices.

Public drinking water safe to drink; Know what to and what NOT to flush down your toilet

• 3/20/2020 4:28:00 PM
• View Count 12596

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is providing this important information about COVID-19 as it relates to public drinking water to provide clarity to the public.

A message about Iowa State Parks' response to COVID-19

• 3/18/2020 3:25:00 PM
• View Count 15261

We greatly appreciate your support and trust. In accordance with CDC guidelines and state recommendations pertaining to COVID-19, we want to  share with you important information about Iowa state parks.