Izaak Walton League Endowment, Inc.

Overview

The Izaak Walton League Endowment, Inc., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the conservation efforts of the Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA). Established in 1943 as a separate entity from the IWLA, its primary role is to provide financial backing for the League's mission to conserve, protect, and restore America's land and waters.

History and Purpose

The Izaak Walton League of America, founded in 1922, initially focused on preserving fishing habitats but soon expanded its scope to include the protection of all natural wildlife and habitats. The Endowment was created to address the League's need for a supplementary funding source to support its growing conservation initiatives. Initially, the Endowment used donations to purchase and hold land, which was later transferred to the U.S. Forest Service. Notable examples include efforts to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota from development.

In the late 1960s, the Endowment shifted its strategy, beginning to award grants to fund IWLA conservation projects rather than focusing solely on land acquisitions. These grants support a wide range of conservation activities, aligning with the IWLA's broader goals of promoting sustainable use and enjoyment of natural resources.

Funding and Operations

The Endowment relies entirely on donations and revenues from investments to fund its annual grants. It does not receive any funding from IWLA membership dues. Every member of the Izaak Walton League is also considered a member of the Endowment, though the Endowment operates independently in terms of financial management.

Conservation Impact

Through its support of IWLA projects, the Endowment contributes to initiatives such as promoting soil and water conservation, protecting wetlands and wilderness areas, and advocating for clean water legislation. These efforts align with the IWLA's long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, which includes notable achievements like the passage of the Clean Water Act of 1972 and ongoing programs such as Save Our Streams and Salt Watch.

Conclusion

The Izaak Walton League Endowment plays a critical role in advancing the conservation goals of the Izaak Walton League of America. By providing essential financial support, it helps ensure that the League can continue its mission of protecting America's natural resources for future generations.