RELEASE: Great Outdoors Foundation, Microsoft Invest in Legacy Woods Nature Sanctuary Stormwater Wetland & Prairie Restoration
DES MOINES, IA (March 23, 2026) – The Great Outdoors Foundation (GOF) is pleased to announce a joint investment with Microsoft in the Legacy Woods Nature Sanctuary stormwater wetland and prairie restoration initiatives. This gift is a grant from the Conservation Acceleration Fund (CAF), GOF’s signature water quality investment mechanism. Private contributions from the CAF are joined by support from the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship, among other partners.
The stormwater wetland is one component of a sophisticated treatment train, managing urban water quality in West Des Moines. This infrastructure is combined with a grassed swale, bioretention cells, and native landscaping — as well as other conservation interventions — to address runoff from the surrounding 12 acres.
Prairie habitat restoration around the entire property will promote biodiversity, enhance soil health, and increase nutrient cycling. This will contribute to improved water quality and storm water management.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Microsoft on this dynamic water quality initiative, demonstrating the efficacy of stacked benefit projects,” Hannah Inman, Great Outdoors Foundation CEO, said. “Legacy Woods layers conservation, recreation, and community development, combining for an impactful amenity for the region.”
“At Microsoft, we are deeply committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we operate. Our collaboration with the Great Outdoors Foundation reflects our dedication to supporting local environmental projects in the community,” Sara Hansen, Microsoft Sr. Community Affairs Manager, said. “Together, we are addressing immediate needs and investing in initiatives that will deliver lasting benefits for people and the environment – now and for generations to come.”
To date, the CAF has yielded:
- $10+ million in private investments for water quality.
- 61,000+ drainage acres captured.
- $51+ million in unlocked capital for conservation practices.
- 100+ water quality projects activated across the state.
- 24 million pounds of nitrogen mitigated from Iowa waterways.
Partners for the Legacy Woods Nature Sanctuary stormwater wetland and prairie restoration will host a ceremonial groundbreaking this spring. The conservation elements will be completed over the next two years, in tandem with the rest of the project.
To learn more about the Conservation Acceleration Fund, click here.
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About the Great Outdoors Foundation
The Great Outdoors Foundation exists to advance conservation through innovation, collaboration, and stewardship. We are the foremost fundraising professionals in the conservation and outdoor recreation sector. Together, we activate meaningful, accessible initiatives that enhance our environment and improve quality of life. Over the last few years, we have invested more than $200 million in conservation and outdoor recreation initiatives, and we’re just getting started.
