Federal dollars aim to boost Des Moines River recreation, tourism

DES MOINES, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa State Capitol Bureau) — Outdoor recreation already brings nearly $6 billion a year to Iowa’s economy, and the state’s capital city accounts for about 25 percent of all tourism, according to Catch Des Moines. New federal dollars are now aimed at pushing those numbers even higher.

A new $2 million federal appropriation will expand access to the Des Moines River, adding three fishing areas, a relocated powerboat launch, and accessible docks. The funding comes from the federal government’s Community Project Funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The project is part of the ICON Water Trails Initiative, a decade-long effort to expand recreational opportunities along a 150-mile stretch of rivers and creeks. It is one of several projects expected to be completed by 2027 on the Des Moines River.

Boating, fishing, and swimming are among Iowa’s top tourist draws, according to a survey by Iowa State University. According to the Iowa Tourism Office, recreation raised $1 billion in business sales in 2024. According to state data, nearly 50,000 jobs are supported by outdoor recreation.

Trina Flack, CEO of Catch Des Moines, said investments in outdoor recreation help attract a new type of visitor.

“Over time, investments in outdoor recreation help attract a new type of visitor, including outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, cyclers, paddlers, and others looking for experiences that our community can now offer,” Flack said.

Flack said the city’s growth potential extends beyond local residents.

“Everybody loves the opportunity to call a place home, but also recognize that this is a place where others around the country are going to want to identify. It’s a huge opportunity for our growth,” Flack said.

Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, said projects like the ICON Water Trails Initiative will deliver an economic return.

“For every dollar we’re able to bring back to Iowa, we get a 400% return on economic growth. I’m very happy to say that in just the last year, we saw nearly 250,000 folks come to Iowa and participate,” Nunn said.