• Ancient Amphibians Discovered in Iowa
• Dinosaurs in Iowa
• Iowa's Geology
• The Flood of 1993 Reveals Fossils
• Plants and Animals of Iowa
• Clair Patterson—20th Century Geologist
• Iowa's Habitats
• Weather
• Natural Disasters
• Iowa

Think about the environment in your area of the state. Why is it important to Iowa?

 

• Seedheads of Big Bluestem
• Glaciers in Iowa
• Wetland
• Native Plants
• White-tailed Deer

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• Over many thousands of years, Iowa's land has evolved into watersheds, soil types, natural habitats, geologic deposits, and groundwater aquifers.
• The topographic features of Iowa are diverse and reflect some aspect of Iowa's geologic history.
• Research conducted at the interface of archaeology and the earth sciences is referred to as geoarchaeology.
• This map shows general areas of forests and prairie grass of Iowa.
• Early innovative residents of the McGregor area of Clayton County used of the bedrock geology of the bluffs for refrigeration.
• The Iowa Hall of Pride showcases the achievements of all Iowans, from student athletes to sports legends, movie stars to scientists.

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Environment

When people talk about “the environment” what do they mean?

The environment is made up of landforms, plants and animals. Climate and weather make up the environment.

Sometimes one part of the environment affects another part. Changes in climate whittle away at landforms. Landforms interrupt weather patterns. Animals disrupt plant habitats.

Add humans to the environment and all sorts of things happen! Iowa’s natural resources fuel our economy and our community, but this has left Iowa with one of the most altered landscapes in the entire world.

Delve into the mysteries of the earth’s beginnings. Trace the formation of Iowa’s landforms and animal habitats. Explore Iowa’s natural history and how the environment continues to be part of our Iowa story.

 

1. Environment