DNR seeks public input on rule revisions

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking comments on the revision of the administrative rule for threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

Executive Order 10, signed by Gov. Reynolds Jan. 10, 2023, requires all state agencies to identify which administrative rule chapters will be retained or rescinded. The EO10 process includes public engagement with the opportunity for input.

The Iowa DNR reviewed 571 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 77 titled Endangered and Threatened Plant and Animal Species consistent with Iowa Code 481B. This chapter has been revised to include only those plant and animal species that were identified as endangered or threatened and eliminates the classification of “special concern” species.

There is no change in policy or enforcement in the new rule.

The public is invited to provide informal comments on the proposed rule changes. DNR will accept written comments through July 15. Written comments or questions regarding the proposed rule should be submitted to both John Pearson and Kelly Poole at john.pearson@dnr.iowa.gov and kelly.poole@dnr.iowa.gov.

After receiving and reviewing informal comments, the DNR will create a draft Regulatory Analysis and draft Notice of Intended Action.

A “clean” copy of the revised rule can be found on the DNR website, iowadnr.gov/eo10.