Back to the River

By Katy Heggen on January 18, 2018 in Blog

“If you build it, they will come."

This familiar “Field of Dreams” reference tends to elicit eye-rolls from long-time Iowans who have heard their fair share of fictitious Shoeless Joe Jackson quotes.

But as more small towns across the state begin to look to the natural resources in their own backyard as an opportunity to revitalize their community, it’s hard not to think that perhaps Ray Kinsella was on to something.

“Most residential towns in Iowa were founded on a river or railroad,” said INHF Trails and Greenways Director Andrea Boulton. “The role of both — especially in small towns — has changed. Often you’re left with areas in the middle of town that aren’t as appealing as they could be.”

But the potential is there. And with a little vision, proper support and a lot of determination, natural features that once brought life and economic activity to these communities, can again.

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