MN Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America

About MN Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America

Minnesota Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton LeagueA National Leader in Conservation, Education, and Community EngagementHistoric Roots, Future FocusFounded in 1926, just four years after the national Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA) was established in 1922, the Minnesota Valley Chapter has a nearly century-long legacy of conservation leadership. From the beginning, our chapter played a pioneering role in participatory science, water quality monitoring, and habitat restoration—efforts that shaped the IWLA’s reputation nationally.In the 1960s, we relocated to a scenic property in the Minnesota River Valley to more directly engage in local ecosystem conservation. Today, our chapter continues to build on that legacy as a flagship leader in the IWLA’s national revitalization.Youth-Led ConservationOur chapter is home to the award-winning Green Crew (www.GreenCrew.club), widely recognized as IWLA’s top youth leadership and conservation program. This innovative initiative combines service learning, real-world science, and civic engagement to empower young conservationists. The Green Crew was recognized by the New York Times in May 2025 as part of their 50-States 50-Fixes series. Notable youth achievements include:A pioneering American Elm restoration study and ongoing reforestation efforts in Dutch Elm Disease-impacted communities.Leadership in water science and Leave No Trace ethics, engaging over 1,000 youth each summer.Three consecutive winners of the IWLA’s Outdoor America Futures Award, all from our chapter.Best Youth Program in the IWLA the last 2 of 3 yearsArt and Creative ExpressionThe Chapter is the home and host of the Kouba Gallery (KoubaGallery.org). The all-volunteer gallery is a vibrant arts space that showcases photography, painting, watercolor, sculpture, and much more—all centered on the human relationship with nature. Each month, we host a public open house featuring new exhibits that highlight both emerging artists and collaborative works with estab