Special to the Times Vedette
Whiterock was honored to accept recognition in 3 categories for the Resilient Iowa Communities Awards on Jan. 21 at the Iowa State Capitol, presented by the University of Northern Iowa. These awards recognize the team effort it takes to strengthen sustainability, environmental health and quality of life in our community.
Whiterock received GOLD Status for 2 categories: Land Use and Environmental Management.
Whiterock received SILVER Status for 1 category: Buildings and Energy.
Whiterock has worked to focus on long-term planning, completing a Strategic Plan in 2025 and finalizing a first-ever Master Site Plan in early 2026 that will help guide land use and conservation priorities for the next 20 years. Current efforts include identifying and mapping ecological sensitive and remnant native landscapes to prioritize protection, restoration and interpretation.
Whiterock also implements hands-on land management practices, including prescribed burns, invasive species removal and habitat restoration to support native plant and wildlife communities. As one of Iowa’s only non-profit land trusts, Whiterock provides public access to conservation land and engages volunteers and community partners in stewardship and educational outreach activities that strengthen regional conservation efforts.
Improving the sustainability and diversity of our organization is always a top priority. In 2025, Whiterock focused on updating all lighting across 5,500 acres to low-wattage LED lighting to reduce light pollution through the use of dark sky-friendly fixtures.
“Whiterock is proud to continue to cohesively connect our conservation efforts with our outdoor recreational opportunities to continue to help advocate for healthy, sustainable landscapes that educate through active practice, while we protect and restore”, says Executive Director Kate Compton.
Accepting the awards are Whiterock Executive Director Kate Compton, Green Iowa AmeriCorps member Analisa, Whiterock Board Members Todd Coffelt and Nate Reagen.