Before the implementation of the Iowa Aquatic Gap Analysis, project coordinators had no sense of the breadth of biological sampling data available for fish. However, it was considered important to have the most extensive biological data set possible. We were able to systematically compile a fish inventory database that we believe satisfies this objective. Other Aquatic GAP projects may find themselves in a similar situation and thus benefit from our approach to compiling a comprehensive biological inventory database.

The Iowa Aquatic Gap Analysis Project (IAGAP) began in 2001 to identify areas in the state where fish species richness lacked adequate protection under existing land ownership and management regimes. Another ma in goal of the project was to create fish prediction data for Iowa streams and rivers.

To accomplish these goals, the Iowa GAP team prepared an assortment of datasets that led to the creation of three main datasets: Iowa streams and rivers; Iowa fish habitat models for 157 species; Iowa land stewardship (ownership and management).

When the project began, there were few statewide datasets available that provided the type of data needed for this project. Conse quently, much effort was devoted to building the previously mentioned key data layers at a sufficiently fine scale and resolution for subsequent analysis. The exception to this statement was land stewardship; it had been created for the terrestrial GAP project. It need ed minimal editing to serve as a dataset for IAGAP. At the completion of the project, these data became freely available, with the intent that they will be used by those responsible for managing the state’s valuable natural resources, and by the public, so that everyone can be better informed. With this in mind, we emphasize that these data are dyna mic, and in some places, already out of date. Nonetheless, the data and analyses which constitute IAGAP represent an important first step toward understanding the status of fish biodiversity and conservation in Iowa.

This final project report is a compendium of 3 previously submitted progress reports and a 4th report for work accomplished from August – December, 2009.

The Iowa Gap Analysis Project (IA-GAP) began in 1997 to identify areas in the state where vertebrate species richness lacked adequate protection under existing land ownership and management regimes.

Partnering within the Great Plains states has been very important to the success of the Great Plains Regional GAP project. Over $3.5 million have been received in monetary and in-kind support from partners for the direct funding of basic layers of gap analysis as well as spin-offs of the GAP projects important to partners in the Great Plains (Table 1). Successes in basic gap analysis efforts would not have been possible without the direct and financial support of our many partners in the Great Plains. In addition to the financial aspects of partnering, contributions of partners have demonstrated their interest in our work and the value of creating high-quality, state-of-the-art products. Our partnering support, both in direct and in-kind financial aspects, also has stimulated several spin-off projects within the basic GAP effort, thereby facilitating future partnering with various agencies and organizations.

The Iowa Gap Analysis Project (IA GAP) began in 1997 to identify areas in the state where vertebrate species richness lacked adequate protection under existing land ownership and management regimes.

To accomplish this goal, the IA GAP team prepared an assortment of datasets that led to three main pieces of information: Iowa vegetation types; Iowa vertebrate/habitat relationship models for 288 species; Iowa land stewardship (ownership and management).

When the project began, there were few stat ewide datasets available that provided the type of data needed for this project. Conse quently, much effort was devoted to building the previously mentioned key da ta layers at a sufficiently fine scale and resolution for subsequent analysis. At the completion of the project, these data became freely available, with the intent that they will be used by those responsible for managing the state’s valuable natural resources, and by the public, so that every one can be better informed. With this in mind, we emphasize that these data are dynamic, and in some places, already out-of date. Nonetheless, the data and analyses that constitute IA GAP represent an important first step toward understanding the st atus of vertebrates and land cover in Iowa and planning for the conser vation of their biodiversity