Iowa’s Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) assembly comes to southern Iowa on October 18th, giving Iowans the opportunity to discuss their vision for outdoor recreation, soil and water enhancement, historical resources and land management and more.

Each assembly represents a region of counties and participants are required to attend the region for the county in which they reside.

The REAP meeting is Oct. 18, from 6:30-8:00 PM, at the lodge at Lake Keomah State Park, 2720 Keomah Lane, Oskaloosa, for residents of Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren and Wapello counties.

“These meetings are a great opportunity for us to meet with Iowans one-on-one and hear their ideas for their parks, trails, museums and other amenities,” said Chuck Gipp, director of the DNR. “Participation from community members is essential for all of us to work together to enhance our recreational opportunities in our state.”

REAP assemblies are locally led meetings where issues can be brought forth and voted upon. Iowans can discuss the program, recommend changes and discuss impacts in their area. Delegates may also be selected from the local meeting to attend the REAP congress in January at the State Capitol in Des Moines.

“REAP benefits every single county every year in one way or another, either through improved water quality, by preserving our historical assets or providing outdoor recreation,” said Tammie Krausman, DNR REAP coordinator. “It has and will continue to have a significant impact on the quality of life for all Iowans.”