Environmental Advocacy Day
Join environmental defenders from all over Iowa as we demand clean water, clean air, and a sustainable future. This event is for seasoned policy experts as well as first-time advocates who want to learn more about the legislative process and current bills impacting our environment. You'll build skills for talking with your legislator about environmental topics, get updates on legislation, and hear from people directly impacted by Iowa's water and air pollution challenges.
It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow environmental advocates and build our power as a community committed to positive change!
Attendance is free and open to the public. IEC member organizations are invited to set up display tables for free in the Capitol Rotunda. Non-member organizations are invited to table for a minimal fee. Registration is required for all attendees.
Agenda - Tuesday, February 19
8:30 - 11: 30 a.m. Morning Session at Iowa Genealogical Society, 628 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
8:30 - 9:00 a.m. - Networking, coffee, and pastries
9:00 - 9:30 a.m. - Advocacy 101: How to Connect with Legislators with Advocacy Strategies, IEC's Lobbying Team
9:30 - 10:15 a.m.: 2025 Environmental Policy Priorities and Current Legislation Update with IEC Staff Experts
10:15 - 10: 30 a.m.: Break
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.: Protecting Iowa's Environment: A Panel Discussion with Legislators*
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Break for Lunch
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Break for individual lunch. You can find great restaurant options in Des Moines' East Village or access a buffet and grab-and-go options at the Capitol Cafeteria located on the lower level of the Iowa State Capitol.
12:30 - 4:00 p.m. Afternoon Activities at the Iowa State Capitol, 1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319
12:30 p.m.: Exhibitors begin setting up display tables in Capitol Rotunda
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.: Networking and interacting with legislators
2:00 - 2:45 p.m: Presentation and press conference in the Capitol Rotunda - hear from environmental experts and people with lived experience navigating the challenges with Iowa's water, air, and climate
3:00 p.m.: Snack and coffee bar for attendees and legislators in the Capitol Rotunda
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.: Networking and interacting with legislators
4:00 p.m.: Event ends
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Debrief and Happy Hour Event
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.: Debrief and Environmental Happy Hour (location TBD)
Individual attendees, organizations, and businesses must pre-register to attend and have a table for Environmental Advocacy Day, even if you have participated in past years. Display table priority is given to IEC member organizations, which may reserve display space at no cost as a benefit of membership. Non-member groups may register for a small fee, or choose to be come a member of IEC!