1. The University of Iowa will form a committee to engage the community on the use of Macbride Nature Recreation Area, whose lease expires in 2029.
2. The committee will consist of representatives from departments that use the area and will gather input from the campus and broader community.
3. The goal of the review is to ensure fiscal sustainability and align with the university’s mission of providing excellent education and research opportunities.
The University of Iowa will be conducting a review of the use of the Macbride Nature Recreation Area (MNRA) over the next year. MNRA is currently leased by the university from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and this lease will expire in 2029. The review committee will include representatives from departments that use MNRA as well as shared governance. Input from the campus and broader community will also be gathered. Despite the review, UI WILD programs, such as the Iowa Raptor Project, Iowa Wildlife Camps, and School of the Wild, will continue to take place at MNRA this summer.
This review is part of a standard process that the university undertakes to evaluate its programming and centers. The goal of these reviews is to ensure that the university’s activities are financially sustainable and align with its mission of providing an excellent education and research opportunities for a wide range of students.
MNRA is a recreational area located north of Iowa City near Lake Macbride State Park. It is owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and while the university does not pay rent for its use, it is responsible for the maintenance of the area’s landscape, structures, and roads. The university has leased MNRA from the Corps of Engineers since the 1960s, and the current agreement extends until July 1, 2029.
The university emphasizes the importance of the UI WILD programs in providing conservation education and experiential learning opportunities for future teachers and K-12 students in Iowa. The university is committed to continuing these programs and recognizes their significance to both the university and the wider community.
The committee conducting the review will submit a report to President Barbara Wilson by May 1, 2025. This report will likely help inform future decisions regarding the university’s use of MNRA and ensure that it aligns with the university’s goals and mission.
In my opinion, it is encouraging to see the University of Iowa taking the initiative to review its use of the Macbride Nature Recreation Area. By conducting regular evaluations, the university can ensure that its activities remain financially viable and consistent with its educational mission. It is reassuring to know that despite the review, the UI WILD programs will continue to provide valuable conservation education and memorable experiences for students.
MNRA is a valuable resource for both the university and the broader community. It offers a unique outdoor space for recreational activities and serves as an important site for conservation education. I believe it is essential for the university to maintain its commitment to the MNRA and continue utilizing it for educational purposes.
By gathering input from various stakeholders, including the campus and broader community, the university can make informed decisions about the future use of MNRA. This collaborative approach ensures that diverse perspectives are taken into account and that the interests of the university and the community are properly balanced.
Overall, I commend the University of Iowa for undertaking this review and prioritizing the sustainability and alignment of its activities. By doing so, the university can continue to provide excellent education and research opportunities while also being responsible stewards of the resources it utilizes.
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