Reynolds uses executive authority to create ‘Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation’

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Sam Parsons

By O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa)

Governor Kim Reynolds has signed an executive order creating a new Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation within the Iowa Tourism Office.

“This office reflects a simple belief: Iowa should be a destination not only for business and opportunity, but also for adventure, exploration and recreation,” Reynolds said.

Reynolds will appoint a 10-member task force to come up with recommendations by early October for how this state government start-up should operate. “The creation of the Office of Outdoor Recreation sends a clear message that Iowa is commited to preserving, promoting and expanding access to outdoor experiences that contribute so much to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” Reynolds said.

According to Reynolds, about $6 billion of the state’s Gross Domestic Product is linked to outdoor pursuits, like hunting and fishing, biking and hiking the state’s hundreds of miles of trails or visiting Iowa’s 63 state parks and recreation areas. Iowa Economic Development Authority Director Debi Durham said the new office will support long term planning and help communities find funding and regional partners for projects. “This office doesn’t start the conversation. That’s already happening all across our state,” Durham said. “What is does is bring those efforts together, build more momentum and help communities realize what’s possible.”

According to the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Iowa is the 25th state to establish an outdoor recreation office. Chad Reese, a vice president for Winnebago Industries, lobbied for the move. “What we have in this state is unique and beautiful and sometimes undervalued. This beautiful land between two rivers has so much to offer to us as Iowans not only from the economic benefits that have been discussed, but from the health and wellness and to be able to get outside and do those things,” Reese said. “It’s crucial for our future.”

There is no additional state funding for the effort Reynolds announced today. The governor signed the executive order at Lake Ahquabi State Park near Indianola.

Mahaska County Conservation to Host REAP Assembly on Thursday

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Sam Parsons

OSKALOOSA — Residents from Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties are invited to attend the annual Regional Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Assembly on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Environmental Learning Center, 2342 Highway 92, Oskaloosa, Iowa.

A free meal will be provided from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The REAP Assembly offers citizens an opportunity to learn more about Iowa’s Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program, one of the state’s most successful conservation initiatives. Since 1989, REAP has helped fund projects that improve water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, protect natural areas, preserve historic resources, and expand outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Iowa.

The assembly is designed to encourage public participation in shaping the future of conservation efforts within the region. Attendees will learn about local REAP-funded projects, discuss conservation priorities, and provide recommendations on policies, programs, and funding opportunities that affect their communities.

“This meeting gives local residents a voice in how conservation funding is used and helps identify priorities for future projects,” said Chris Clingan Chair of Mahaska County REAP committee. “Whether you are interested in parks, trails, wildlife habitat, water quality, outdoor recreation, or environmental education, your input is important.”

Participants will also have the opportunity to:

Learn about local REAP-funded conservation projects.
Share ideas on how REAP can better serve local communities.
Help identify opportunities for regional conservation initiatives.
Review and recommend changes to conservation policies and funding priorities.
Select delegates to represent the region at the statewide REAP Congress held each January at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines.

REAP benefits every Iowa county by investing in projects that improve water quality, conserve natural resources, preserve cultural and historic sites, and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for future generations.

Community members with an interest in Iowa’s natural resources, including water quality, wildlife habitat, parks, recreation, conservation education, and environmental stewardship, are encouraged to attend.

For more information, contact Mahaska County Conservation at (641) 673-9327 or Email Chris Clingan at clingan@mahaskacountyia.gov.

Practical Farmers of Iowa Field Day to be Held

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Sam Parsons

LOVILIA — Mike DeCook and his sons, Joshua and Wyatt DeCook, operate DeCook Ranch in Monroe County, Iowa. Over the last 30 years, they have managed 800 acres of pasture, custom-grazing 600 head of cattle. One of their goals has been to create a welcoming habitat for grassland birds. They use fire to mimic grazing and have restored prairie, oak savanna, woodlands and wetlands. Much of that land is protected through a permanent easement with Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.

Today, Mike and his family have protected over 2,700 acres across three counties, and their land is home to birds such as sandpipers, turkeys, trumpeter swans and songbirds. Join Mike and partners from Audubon Society as they share practical ways to improve habitat for native and migratory grassland birds.

See & Discuss

Using rotational grazing to mimic natural fire as a way to foster grassland bird habitat
Introducing cool-season grasses into pasture for bird habitat
How restoring prairie, oak savanna and wetlands creates resilient grazing systems that create habitats for many species
Establishing permanent easements for migratory and year-round grassland birds

Date: Tuesday, June 23

Time: 9:00am – 11:30am

Location: 5445 105th Street, Lovilia, Iowa 50150

RSVP: Attendees can RSVP by visiting the event page or calling PFI at (515)-232-5661

Billy Ray Cyrus Announces First Album In 14 Years

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Bob Ballard

Billy Ray Cyrus is putting out his first album of new music in 14 years. “The Hill” sees Billy Ray working at length with son Braison Cyrus, who scored co-writer and co-producer credits for the upcoming collection. Two of the songs, “It’s Alright” and “You’re Not Here,” were released alongside the album announcement, and follow the release of the track “On Our Way Along” with daughter Noah Cyrus back in April. “The Hill” will be available everywhere June 16.

This day in Country Music History

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1984, Lorrie Morgan joined the Grand Ole Opry.
Today in 1989, the “River Of Time” album by the Judds was certified gold.
Today in 1989, Tammy Wynette’s album, “Tammy’s Greatest Hits,” was certified platinum.
Today in 1989, Kathy Mattea had the #1 single in the country with “Come From The Heart.”
Today in 1993, Reba McEntire and Linda Davis recorded “Does He Love You.”
Today in 1994, the “Indian Outlaw” video by Tim McGraw was certified gold.
Today in 1995, Patty Loveless’ “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am” topped the country singles charts.
Today in 1998, the “Greatest Hits” album by Clay Walker was released.
Today in 1999, Kenny Rogers received the Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award at the 30th annual Songwriter’s Hall of Fame Awards dinner.
Today in 2002, Trace Adkins performed a special benefit concert at Nashville’s Wildhorse Saloon. The concert will raise money for the charities of the BellSouth Senior Classic at Gaylord Opryland which include: Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, Middle Tennessee Council Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scout Council of Cumberland Valley, Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee, Family & Children’s Service and Tennessee Lions Charities.
Today in 2002, Cyndi Thomson’s debut album, “My World,” was certified gold.
Today in 2008, Brad Paisley’s “Waitin’ On a Woman” was released.
Today in 2009, George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” The Kingston Trio’s “Tom Dooley” and The Stanley Brothers’ “Rank Stranger” were added to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry.
Today in 2013, Carrie Underwood was pulled over for speeding directly following her performance at Nashville’s LP Field.

Police search for suspects in Ohio shooting that wounded 12 near a street festival

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Sam Parsons

TOLEDO (AP) — A search for suspects in Ohio who opened fire near a busy street festival stretched into Sunday after 12 people were wounded in the weekend shooting that sent crowds scrambling for cover in a historic Toledo neighborhood.

Each of the dozen victims — ranging from teenagers to people in their 60s — were in stable condition, the Toledo Police Department said Sunday. No arrests have been made and authorities have not identified any potential suspects.

The gunfire erupted Saturday near the Old West End Festival, a popular annual summer gathering along streets dotted with Victorian homes. Videos posted to social media showed people running at the sound of gunfire and medics tending to the wounded in a park filled with event tents and food trucks.

Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan has said it appeared that at least two people fired weapons and were “probably shooting at each other.”

As the search for the shooters wore on, Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates vowed “justice will be swift and strong.”

“Those who were frightened, traumatized or harmed by this violence will remain at the forefront of our efforts. I’ve felt outrage before, but this is personal,” Bates said in a statement. “This is my home. These are my friends and neighbors. It is not OK.”

In a brief update posted to social media Sunday, Toledo police said investigators were continuing to make progress and were following multiple leads. Authorities have urged festivalgoers to come forward with any photos or videos that might have caught a glimpse of the suspects.

Hundreds of people were at the festival, an annual two-day celebration in Toledo’s historic district featuring live music, food vendors, home tours and shopping. Located in northwest Ohio near the western edge of Lake Erie, Toledo is about 55 miles (90 kilometers) southwest of Detroit.

“As far as violence, this is over the top, right?” Toledo police Lt. Dan Gerken said Saturday. “Twelve people being shot, that’s the most I’ve been to a scene. I’ve been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top.”

The remainder of the festival was canceled Sunday. Organizers said “it would not be compassionate, responsible or possible” to continue through the weekend.

“We are heartbroken about those that were injured at the Old West End Festival,” the festival said in a statement.

The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, with most of them in their early 20s. Fire Chief Allison Armstrong said it was difficult for emergency responders to get the injured to the hospital due to closed roads and traffic leaving the festival, but all were transported within an hour.

Kevin Berry was sitting in the neighborhood arboretum listening to live music with friends when he heard gunshots ring out.

“Everybody hit the deck,” he said.

When Berry looked back up, he saw a gun being tossed to the ground less than 50 feet (15 meters) away from him. Officers who were already on site for the festival responded immediately.

Berry, who has medical training and served in the Navy, walked around looking for anyone who might need help and saw at least five people with gunshot wounds.

George Kral, the city’s safety director, said the Old West End Festival is one of the most iconic festivals in Toledo.

“And it’s a shame that something like this had to ruin it,” Kral said.

The Ohio shooting was one of at least two episodes of mass gun violence in the U.S. over the weekend.

In Kansas City, Missouri, nine adults were injured in a shooting early Saturday, police said. Officers dispatched to the area about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of downtown found a large crowd dispersing. Police said none of the victims had life-threatening injuries and that no suspects were in custody.

Iowa farmers call for renewal of US trade deal with Canada and Mexico

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Sam Parsons

By Rachel Cramer (Radio Iowa)

Livestock producers and farmers from Iowa are urging federal officials to renew a massive trade deal.

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement went into effect in 2020 and includes a mandatory review in July.

Bob Hemesath grows corn and raises hogs in northeast Iowa and moderated this week’s Farmers for Free Trade panel in Des Moines.

“At a time when global competition is intensifying and market access is more critical than ever, the USMCA agreement remains a cornerstone of North American agriculture, trade and just economic impact overall,” Hemesath says. “For Iowa, that impact is tangible.”

Around 40-percent of Iowa’s goods are exported to either Canada or Mexico, according to the Brookings Institute. Corn, soybeans, ethanol and tractors top of the list.

Randy Miller is a farmer in south-central Iowa and board member of the American Soybean Association and U.S. Soybean Export Council. Miller calls the USMCA the “gold standard” for trade and says it keeps important markets open for farmers.

“This all trickles down to our small towns and the small communities that we all live in,” Miller says. “In rural Iowa, we produce these products that are going around the world.”

Trade leaders from Canada and Mexico earlier this week said they’d like to renew the agreement through 2042.

The Iowa farmers are urging U.S. leaders to follow suit. If the U.S. opts out, the trade agreement will sunset in 2036.

Showing Horticulture Q&A To Be Held Next Month

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Sam Parsons

OSKALOOSA — Have you thought about showing the item(s) you are growing at the Southern Iowa Fair? Stop by the Extension office Wednesday July 1 9-Noon and 1-3 pm and ask Master Gardeners your questions regarding how to show Horticulture items (flowers (annuals & perennials), shrubs, roses, container grown plants, baskets and pots, container gardens, flower arrangements, vegetables in a baskets, vegetables & herbs, or fruit, containers); in 4-H or Open class at the Southern Iowa Fair.

Master Gardeners will have lots of tips and how-tos for potential open and 4-H horticulture show exhibitors.

The event with sponsored by ISU Extension and Outreach—Mahaska County and the Mahaska County Master Gardeners, There is no charge to attend and open to all interested in the topic. It is a come and go event.

Fairfield Man Arrested After Being Found Passed Out in Stopped Vehicle

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Sam Parsons

FAIRFIELD – A Fairfield man was arrested in rural Jefferson County after being found passed out in a vehicle stopped in the roadway with drugs in his possession.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reports that on Friday morning, at approximately 6:10am, deputies responded to the intersection of 120th Street and Jasmine Avenue, about 5 miles east of Packwood, regarding a vehicle sitting in the roadway. Deputies arrived 15 minutes later and observed a male subject asleep in the driver’s seat.

A probable cause search of the vehicle was then conducted, and deputies allegedly found approximately 36 grams of methamphetamine, 14 grams of marijuana, multiple empty baggies, a digital scale, and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.

The operator of the vehicle was identified as Douglas Welsh of Fairfield, and he was arrested following the incident. Welsh faces charges of Possession with Intent to Deliver More than 5 grams of Methamphetamine (class B felony), Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana (class D felony), Drug Tax Stamp Violation (class D felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (simple misdemeanor), and Driving Under Suspension (simple misdemeanor).

Ottumwa Man Arrested for Stolen Vehicles in Two Counties

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Sam Parsons

FAIRFIELD – An Ottumwa man was arrested in Fairfield in connection to multiple stolen vehicles in different counties.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, on Wednesday, June 3, at around 2:24pm, the Jefferson County Communications Center received a call from a resident in the county regarding their vehicle being stolen and located within the city limits of Fairfield. The vehicle was observed on security footage being taken from their home east of Batavia at around 1:30pm.

Minutes after the original call had been received, at 2:28pm, law enforcement located the vehicle, unoccupied, in the Bomgaars parking lot. Authorities say another abandoned vehicle was located less than a mile from where the vehicle had been taken, and it had been reported stolen out of Ottumwa earlier in the day; and the Ottumwa Police Department had a person of interest in the case of that vehicle.

At 4:34pm, law enforcement personnel were dispatched to Goodwill regarding the person of interest from the Ottumwa incident. The man was identified as 51-year-old Peter Serrer of Ottumwa, and a search of his person allegedly revealed items taken from the stolen vehicle east of Batavia as well as the stolen vehicle from Ottumwa.

Serrer was arrested and charged in Jefferson County with 1st Degree Theft of a Motor Vehicle as well as Interference with Official Acts. He also faces multiple charges out of Ottumwa, including 1st Degree Burglary, 2nd Degree Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Domestic Abuse Assault involving Display or Use of a Weapon, and Violation of a No Contact Order. Serrer is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail on a $10,000 bond.

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