AGP Executive Report

Family Fun in Eastern Iowa: The Waterloo Bucks host “Touch a Truck” tonight at Riverfront Stadium, with gates opening 5:30 p.m. and the game at 6:30 p.m.; tickets include up-close vehicle access from groups like the Iowa DNR and Waterloo Fire Rescue. Outdoor Travel & Events: Live at the Lake returns to Preservation Plaza in Arnolds Park on Saturday nights through Labor Day, with free music plus fireworks starting at 7:30 p.m. Disaster Recovery: FEMA has approved nearly $2 million for Sioux County projects, including $1,993,356.75 for repairs and renovation to the Rock Valley Public Library after the 2024 flood. Wildlife & Nature: Lee County Conservation rescued two ornate box turtles after illegal pet ownership—one found in an apartment in Keokuk and another wandering in Fort Madison—moving them to other nature centers. Getting Around Des Moines: DART’s new bus network launches Sunday with 10 main routes and more frequent service along busy corridors. Summer Travel Costs: AAA reports gas prices are falling nationally for the third straight week, easing summer driving costs.

Education & Youth Sports: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed HF 2591, which could lower the age for high school sports participation so students as young as 13 may play varsity and compete against seniors—districts are waiting on state guidelines before changing plans. Transit & Getting Around: Des Moines’ new DART bus network launches Sunday with more frequent routes, 15-minute service on key corridors, and on-demand microtransit in some suburbs. Family Travel & Summer Fun: Live at the Lake returns to Preservation Plaza in Arnolds Park with free Saturday concerts (plus fireworks) running through Labor Day, starting Saturday night. Outdoor & Nature: Lee County Conservation rescued two ornate box turtles after illegal pet ownership—one found in a Keokuk apartment and another wandering in Fort Madison—now headed to other nature centers. Local Attractions: Lakeside Lab in West Okoboji is hosting a summer fundraiser Sunday night and continues hands-on research visits for thousands of K-12 students. Road Trip Costs: AAA reports domestic airfares are up 9% to 20% versus last summer, and gas prices are higher this summer, pushing travelers to look for closer, more affordable options in Iowa.

Iowa State Parks Passport: The 2026 Iowa State Park Passport is back through Oct. 31. Download the app, check in at parks, earn points, and score prizes like camping discounts, tote bags, and a chance at a three-night cabin stay at Pine Lake State Park. Severe Weather & Travel Disruptions: Tornadoes and strong storms hit communities south of Chicago, with major damage reported in Indiana and Illinois and hundreds of thousands without power; flights were also disrupted. Gas Prices Ease for Summer Trips: AAA says the national average for regular gas has fallen for three straight weeks, now about $4.13, offering some relief for road-trip planning. Dubuque Data Center Input: Dubuque is starting a public input process and drafting a local ordinance framework to set expectations for future data center development, focusing on water, electricity, noise, traffic, and emergency response. Local Outdoors Incentives: Iowa’s State Park Passport adds a new photo contest this year, aiming to get more families exploring the state’s parks. Community Spotlight: Le Mars’ The Noteables reunite for “The Final Encore” at the Primebank Ice Cream Social June 18.

Iowa State Parks Passport: Travel Iowa and the Iowa DNR have relaunched the Iowa State Park Passport for 2026. Download it to your phone, log visits to nearly 60 state parks, and earn points toward prizes like camping discounts, tote bags, and a chance at a three-night cabin stay. The program runs through Oct. 31, and it includes a new photo contest this year. Severe Weather Disruption (Midwest): Storms across the Midwest and Northeast knocked out power for hundreds of thousands, damaged buildings, and canceled flights, with tornadoes confirmed near Chicago and a fatal incident reported in Des Moines after a tree fell at a homeless encampment. Burlington River Tourism: River Days returns to the Mississippi this weekend, and Burlington is also gearing up for Viking River Cruise stops with multiple dockings scheduled from late June through September, supported by local volunteers and guided tours. Local Leadership Transition (Clear Lake): One Vision in Clear Lake announced CEO Mark Dodd will retire no later than March 2027, and the board is starting a search for his successor.

Road Construction Detour: U.S. 75 will fully close in both directions June 17–30 between Hwy. 60 (north of Le Mars) and Hwy. 10 (north of Maurice), with an official detour via Hwy. 60 and nearby Hwy. 75—plan extra time. Severe Weather Impacts: Storms brought widespread damage and outages across Iowa and the Midwest; in Iowa County, the Sheriff’s Office shared drone photos of downed power lines and major tree damage, and in Montgomery County officials reported heavy tree loss, flooding, and power outages while urging residents to avoid affected areas. State Parks Passport Adventure: Iowa DNR is pushing its State Parks Passport as a fun way to explore caves, bluffs, forests, and river valleys across the state—perfect for summer hiking and road trips. Rail History Restoration: D&RGW No. 223 is being trucked to Colorado for restoration to running condition, after decades in Ogden—rail fans may want to watch for future updates and visits. Local Events & Tourism: Burlington’s River Days returns with concerts, a BBQ competition, and family events along the riverfront, while Rock Falls welcomes Sick Summer June 15 with a downtown mini-block party tied to the drag-and-drive checkpoint. Outdoor Recreation Push: Gov. Reynolds’ new Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation continues to spotlight Iowa’s outdoor tourism growth.

Outdoor Recreation & Tourism: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating an Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, aiming to boost state park tourism and the outdoor economy. Travel Disruptions: The Iowa/Wisconsin DOT says the Iowa 9/WIS 82 Mississippi River bridge center span work at Lansing is moving to Friday, June 12, with the river channel closed 6 a.m.–6 p.m. and ferry service shut during the connection. Local Events: Lee County’s free Love Lee County Tour runs June 12–13 (self-guided, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.) highlighting local businesses, farms, artisans and history. Family-Friendly Attractions: Clinton’s famous Trolls are a ready-made road trip stop on U.S. Hwy. 30. Lodging Demand: Eastern Iowa campgrounds are nearly full as out-of-state data center workers look for affordable stays. Community & Culture: WorldFest returns to Venice Theatre June 15–20 with international community theater troupes. Weather/Travel Safety: A derecho slammed the Midwest, knocking out power for hundreds of thousands, including major outages across Illinois and Wisconsin.

America’s 250th Rail Tour: Union Pacific’s “Big Boy” steam locomotive (4014) rolled through Iowa with stops including Cedar Rapids, drawing railfans to bridges and crossings as the historic engine made its way toward Chicago. Outdoor & Family Fun: Iowa’s outdoor tourism push gets a boost with Gov. Kim Reynolds signing an executive order creating a new Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation aimed at growing state park tourism and the outdoor economy. Local Water & Parks: Burlington weighs replacing Dankwardt Park’s aging swimming pool after a second straight summer closure; a proposed $6.7M plan would go to a fall referendum. Road Trip Practicalities: A travel tech tip is making the rounds—organizing flight, bus, and train passes in Google Wallet can speed airport security and keep updates in one place. Safety Watch: Iowa continues to see serious crashes, including a fatal motorcycle crash in Jasper County on Highway 163. Community Giving: The Millie Moo Foundation highlights how families traveling for pediatric cancer care can get financial help for travel, food, and bills.

Outdoor Recreation Boost: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating an Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, housed within the Iowa Tourism Office, to coordinate state, local, and conservation partners and promote Iowa as a destination for adventure and exploration. Heritage Tourism Stop: Milton installed a new Historic Hills Scenic Byway interpretive history panel at the historic train depot, adding another self-guided stop along the 105-mile route for travelers looking for local stories. Road-Trip Disruption: The Lansing, Iowa–Wisconsin Mississippi River bridge project’s center span installation was pushed to Friday, June 12, closing the free car ferry all day and restricting river traffic; detours are advised. Local Events: Fort Dodge’s Oakland Cemetery Walk returns Saturday (2–4 p.m.) with actors portraying notable local figures and guided headstone tours. Family Outdoor Perk: Iowa State Parks Passport is back for 2026 with check-ins, points, and prizes through Oct. 31, plus a photo contest for park shots. Animal Health Alert: Iowa issued guidance on New World screwworm after cases in Texas and a dog in New Mexico—inspect pets and livestock for open wounds and report maggots immediately.

Outdoor Recreation Boost: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Executive Order 19 creating an Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, housed within the Iowa Tourism Office, aiming to coordinate public and private efforts to grow Iowa’s outdoor economy (nearly $6B annually) and tourism. State Parks Passport: The Iowa DNR launched the 2026 Iowa State Park Passport, bringing back a points-based way to check in at nearly 60 parks and forests through Oct. 31, with a new photo contest for standout park shots. Aviation & Travel Convenience: Mason City Municipal Airport is hosting its first TSA Pre-Check enrollment event this week, with appointments required and a five-year membership if approved. Tourism Event Spotlight: Keokuk Concert Association marks its 100th season with six performances at the Grand Theatre, running from October 2026 through March 2027. Animal Health Alert for Travelers: IDALS issued guidance on protecting animals from New World Screwworm after cases in Texas and New Mexico, urging wound checks and immediate reporting if maggots are found.

Outdoor Recreation Push: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Executive Order 19 creating the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, housed within the Iowa Tourism Office under the Iowa Economic Development Authority, aiming to grow Iowa’s outdoor economy (nearly $6B annually) and support about 50,000 jobs. The office will coordinate partnerships, back business development, and work with the Iowa DNR while a new task force delivers recommendations within 120 days. State Parks Passport: The Iowa DNR also launched the 2026 Iowa State Park Passport to encourage residents and visitors to explore more of the state’s parks. Travel-Related Business Moves: Hy-Vee is selling 21 standalone Fast & Fresh convenience stores to Bosselman Enterprises, which will rebrand them as Pump & Pantry locations. Road Trip Reality Check: GasBuddy reports show premium and diesel prices remain volatile across Iowa counties as summer travel ramps up.

Outdoor Recreation Boost: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, set up as an extension of the Iowa Tourism Office, with a goal of expanding trails, parks, and water access and coordinating public and private partners; officials cite nearly $6B in annual economic impact and about 50,000 jobs tied to outdoor recreation. Ames Soccer Weekend: The 2026 Iowa high school girls soccer state tournament kicks off Monday, June 8, running through Saturday, June 13, with all games in Ames (quarterfinals/semis at Lied Recreational Fields; finals at Cyclone Sports Complex) and tickets via GoBound. North Iowa Aviation Event: Mason City is set to host an Olympic-level international aerobatic championship in late August, expected to bring 100–150 pilots and visitors for about two weeks of practice and competition. Family Travel Safety Note: Des Moines police report an 8-year-old critically injured after being hit by a vehicle in a southwest-side apartment parking lot while riding a bike. Local Festival: Hampton’s 11th annual Bluegrass & Country Music Festival returns this week at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, with camping and multiple days of performances. Road Trip Planning: AAA reports Iowa regular gas averages around $4.06 statewide in the week ending May 30, with some spots lower (including $3.99 in Grundy County).

Road-Trip Deals & Local Stops: Clayton County’s Wilder Memorial Museum is the start point for a “Museum Crawl” passport—visit 8 of 17 museums across the county by June 30 for a chance at a $250 grand prize, with no admission fees and set hours. Summer Travel Reality Check: AAA and Reuters say airfare is up 9% to 20% versus last summer, and Iowa-area driving costs are higher too, with gas expected around $4.35 to $4.80 this summer—so the story pushes low-cost Iowa getaways instead. EV Charging on the Go: A new EV-only “full-service” charging station concept is popping up near the Illinois-Iowa border, with amenities like a convenience store and clear roadside pricing. Road Safety for Riders: The 37th Annual Blessing of the Bikes in the region kicked off riding season with a safety message for drivers and motorcyclists plus a canned-food drive. Iowa Win: A Mega Millions ticket sold at a Walmart in Waterloo matched five numbers for a $2 million prize. Road Improvements: A 26-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 18 (Sanborn to Spencer area) is being studied for upgrades using the DOT’s Super-2 approach with passing lanes and safety features. Weather Watch: More storms are expected Sunday before a hotter stretch next week.

Iowa Politics & Tourism Watch: Iowa’s November ballot is set after a surprising primary night, with national observers zeroing in on how Iowa’s governor and Senate races could shape the balance of power—something that can affect travel planning and event calendars statewide. Local Travel & Events: Atlantic’s Produce in the Park is set for June 11 with Gallivant, an Omaha-based band with local roots, bringing a free farmers-market concert vibe to the region. Roadside Charging Update: An EV driver shared a look at a new “full-fledged” EV-only charging stop near the Illinois-Iowa border—complete with a canopy, convenience store, restrooms, and clear pricing—an example of how road trips may feel more like traditional stops. Fuel Prices (Drive Time Matters): GasBuddy reports show diesel deals in Iowa’s Madison County hitting $4.79 (week ending May 30), plus other county-by-county lows for regular and E85, useful for travelers mapping summer routes. Wildlife Moment: The “Todd” bear that drew social media attention across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa was reportedly killed after being struck on I-90—an unexpected roadside travel story with a community impact.

EV Travel & Charging: An EV driver shared photos of a new “full-fledged” EV-only charging stop near the Illinois-Iowa border in Fulton, Illinois—complete with a canopy, convenience store, restrooms, and a big roadside price sign, aiming to make charging feel like a real roadside routine. Volleyball & Tourism Spillover: Cedar Rapids hosted the “Best in the Midwest” volleyball tournament at Sandlot Sports and Social, pulling teams from 16 states and offering AVP pro-tour points and $15,000 in prizes—good news for visitors and local sports travel. Weather for Trip Planning: Iowa is bracing for more storms Sunday before a heat-up next week, with recent downpours dumping several inches in parts of southern Iowa. Outdoor Safety: Iowa DNR is urging hikers and campers to help slow invasive species spread—clean boots, check gear for pests, and avoid bringing in out-of-county firewood. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reported some of the lowest diesel and fuel prices in Iowa counties for the week ending May 30, with multiple spots hitting notable lows for drivers heading into summer travel. Local Food Prize Spotlight: Tom Vilsack visited Le Mars to highlight the World Food Prize’s Iowa roots and the “Ice Cream Capital of World” stop at Wells production.

Invasive Species & Outdoor Safety: Iowa DNR and North Iowa Outdoors are urging hikers and outdoor lovers to help slow the spread of invasive pests by cleaning boots, checking gear for spongy moth egg masses, and not moving firewood from outside your county—steps that protect the state’s forests and summer recreation. Local Travel & Tourism Upgrade: Davenport’s Channel Cat dock in East Davenport has reopened after a $1.8 million renovation, including a new pedestrian bridge and landside improvements—aimed at making boarding easier and boosting visits to nearby shops and restaurants. Quad Cities Health Tourism (Care Access): UnityPoint Health’s Robert Young Center is launching the Quad Cities’ first intensive outpatient eating disorder program for adults, with referrals starting June 8 and treatment beginning June 22. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports Iowa fuel prices are mixed by blend and county, with E85 and regular gas deals showing up in select areas as the state average shifts week to week. Animal Health Alert: A new New World screwworm case in Texas has veterinarians warning the threat may be larger than the single confirmed find, urging year-round pet prevention and prompt reporting of suspicious wounds.

Mississippi River Bridge Update: Iowa and Wisconsin DOTs say the new Iowa 9/WIS 82 bridge center span will be floated into place June 11-12, shutting down the free car ferry and restricting boat traffic near the Lansing project site. Quad Cities Tourism & Transit: Davenport’s Channel Cat dock reopened after $1.8 million upgrades, including a new pedestrian bridge and landside improvements—aimed at making boarding easier and boosting local visits. Local Health & Community Care: UnityPoint Health’s Robert Young Center will launch the Quad Cities’ first intensive outpatient eating disorder program for adults, with referrals starting June 8 and treatment beginning June 22. Des Moines Area Travel Eats: Hy-Vee is selling 21 standalone Fast & Fresh convenience stores to Bosselman’s Pump & Pantry, with rebranding planned to roll out in July. Outdoor Safety: The Iowa DNR reports a strong start for fishing in Northwest Iowa, with interest expected to continue during the state’s Free Fishing Weekend.