University of Iowa program announces collaboration with Winneshiek County and Decorah

The University of Iowa's program called "Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities" sends professors and students to selected Iowa communities to help build a more sustainable future by addressing the economic, environmental, and socio-cultural issues of today.

The IISC has announced it will continue its sustainability work in Winneshiek County and Decorah during the 2014-15 academic year. Project details will be announced early this summer.  University of Iowa graduate students in Urban and Regional Planning completed sustainability projects in Decorah during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 academic years.  

"While Decorah has worked with students and leaders from this program in the past, we look forward to this renewed partnership because of the value of the work product the students bring from their academic environment," Decorah City Manager Chad Bird said. "We believe the students bring a fresh perspective to Decorah's projects and offer keen insight into solving our issues in a positive and energetic way."

Students likely will be working on an economic impact study of the frac sand mining industry, a trail routing and economic impact study of a regional Backbone Trail, an economic impact study of recreational trails in Winneshiek County, a storm water utility analysis, and updating building, energy and planning and zoning codes.

"Some of the studies will have long-lasting influence on public health, public safety, and quality of life for residents in Winneshiek County and its municipalities," said Winneshiek County Supervisor Dean Thompson, who will serve as Community Coordinator for the IISC project.