Iowans' support for natural resources has become more evident after a significant fee increase for their favorite specialty license plate is resulting in about 90 percent of them keeping the plate on their vehicles.

Legislation in 2004 increased the annual renewal of the 'goldfinch and rose' license plate from $10 per year to $25. The one-time purchase price went from $35 to $45. Prices went up to help the state take advantage of federal funding for wildlife species of special conservation concern.

The new prices put Iowa's natural resource plate closer to those of other states. Income from the plate will double the DNR's Wildlife Diversity Program budget for those species that are not funded by hunting and fishing license income. The plate also continues to fund the Resource Enhancement and Protection program for public conservation land, habitat, historical activities and outdoor education.

"We were a little concerned that the license plate pricing increase would see a serious drop in plate renewals," said Dale Garner, DNR wildlife bureau chief. "However, for the first four months of the year, renewal rates are down only about 11 percent. And first-time buyers of the plate are actually 50% up from a year ago. We are very, very grateful for the support from our wildlife enthusiasts," he said.

For more information on the natural resource license plate, go to www.iowareap.com, or contact the Wildlife Diversity Program at the Boone Wildlife Research Station 515-432-2823.
 

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