With tax season closely approaching, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants to remind taxpayers of the opportunity to donate to the Fish and Wildlife Fund on their state tax form. Commonly referred to as the “Chickadee Check-off,” the donations from Iowa taxpayers have declined from previous years, totaling a little under $147,000 this year, resulting in an $8,000 decrease from the previous year. The number of donors has also declined by 50 percent over the last 20 years, and only about .4 percent of Iowa taxpayers make any donations to the program. The contributions assist in funding non-game wildlife by improving habitat, restoring wildlife, creating learning opportunities for citizens, and more. The Chickadee Check-off is one of the only funding sources for Iowa DNR’s Wildlife Diversity program, which makes the decrease in donors have such an impact. Stephanie Shepherd, a wildlife biologist with the program, says, “If every Iowa taxpayer donated just $1, it would mean $1.6 million for wildlife and nature conservation.” Those interested in donating can simply write the donation amount next to Fish/Wildlife, on line 21 on their 1040 form, or to let their tax preparer know they are wanting to contribute. New this year, in case hopeful donors miss writing their donation on the tax form, donations can be made online, and the link has been included below.
