Hinson Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Preserve and Restore the Driftless Area

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) reintroduced bipartisan legislation alongside Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) to conserve and restore the Driftless Area across Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Driftless Area Landscape Conservation Initiative (DALCI) Act would support voluntary, farmer-led conservation efforts that reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and protect the region’s unique natural resources—while also strengthening recreation and tourism opportunities.

“DALCI was a proven conservation success during its authorization—measurably reducing soil erosion and flood risk, helping wildlife, and enhancing water quality by empowering local farmers and landowners with conservation tools. We have an opportunity to build on these successes by reauthorizing this program—at no cost to the taxpayer—and recommitting USDA resources to conservation in the Driftless Area. I’m proud to work across the aisle and across the river with Rep. Eric Sorensen to preserve this natural treasure for years to come." — Congresswoman Ashley Hinson 

"The Driftless Area is unlike anywhere else in the country, and protecting it requires smart, locally driven solutions. The DALCI Act puts farmers and landowners in the driver’s seat with the conservation help they need to reduce flooding, protect clean water, and strengthen unique rural lands. By reintroducing this bipartisan legislation, we’re building on a proven program that delivers real results for Northwestern Illinois and the entire region.” — Congressman Eric Sorensen

Background:

• Preservation of the Driftless Area is vital for flood prevention, soil health, and maintaining the natural landscape enjoyed by American families for generations.
• The original Driftless Area Landscape Conservation Initiative (DALCI) program operated from 2012 to 2017, focusing on reducing erosion and restoring streams in the Driftless Area and throughout the Upper Mississippi River Basin.

The full bill text can be found here.