Case Studies

ICON Water Trails

Along with dozens of other partners, the Great Outdoors Foundation incubated and launched this transformational quality of life initiative aimed at connecting 150 miles of water trails in Central Iowa.

Funding: $100M

Date: Ongoing

Iowa Wildlife Federation

The Great Outdoors Foundation provides backend support for other conservation nonprofits allowing for a more developed sector and strengthened partners.

Funding: In-Kind

Date: Ongoing

Wetland Wave

Strategic implementation of wetlands across private lands within targeted watersheds utilizing funding from the Great Outdoors Foundation.

Funding: $400,000

Date: Ongoing

Athene North Shore Recreation Area

The Great Outdoors Foundation acted as fiscal sponsor for this capital campaign activating one of the most universally accessible parks in the country.

Funding: In-Kind

Date: 2024

Environmental Quality Incentives Program

In partnership with Polk County Conservation, the Great Outdoors Foundation is acting as the farm tenant for a plot of land implementing conservation best practices.

Funding: In-Kind

Date: 2024

Google Grade Stabilization Portfolio

The Great Outdoors Foundation has partnered with Google to invest in a 47-site grade stabilization initiative led by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

Funding: $1.3M

Date: 2024

The Iowa Current

A comprehensive water quality resource website for the state of Iowa developed by the Great Outdoors Foundation in partnership with stakeholders up and downstream.

Funding: $100,000+

Date: 2024

Athene Pedestrian Bridge

An iconic infrastructure project increasing trail connectivity for recreators in Central Iowa made possible by a capital campaign led by the Great Outdoors Foundation.

Funding: $3M

Date: 2023

Polk County Water & Land Legacy Bond

Through initial research and support funding, the Great Outdoors Foundation aided in activating this monumental funding for conservation.

Funding: $65M

Date: 2021

Jester Park Nature Center

The Great Outdoors Foundation led the $7 million capital campaign for the activation of this signature regional amenity supporting access to conservation and recreation.

Funding: $7 million

Date: 2016