The University of Iowa has announced it will not renew its lease for the Macbride Nature Recreation Area (MNRA) when the agreement expires on July 1, 2029.
The university has operated the 485-acre property, located on land owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, since the early 1960s. The decision comes after a comprehensive review of the site’s financial and operational sustainability, university officials said.
“This was not an easy decision. But after extensive analysis, we determined that the long-term financial requirements are not feasible given the university’s current resources and the need to stay focused on our highest priorities, which include educating 30,000 students, supporting cutting-edge research, and delivering world-class patient care,” said UI President Barbara Wilson. “I very much appreciate the work of the committee and their outreach to potential partners as we explored numerous options.”
A university committee formed in June 2024 was tasked with reviewing the university’s use of the property, focusing on three key areas: finances and history, academics, and external groups.
In a report delivered to UI President Barbara Wilson in May, the 10-member committee found that maintaining operations at the site would require $14.8 million in immediate repairs and infrastructure upgrades, in addition to nearly $1 million annually in ongoing maintenance.
While the university leases the property rent-free, it is solely responsible for all maintenance and capital improvements.
School of the Wild, Wildlife Camps to continue
Located just north of Iowa City near Lake Macbride State Park, the nature area is home to several educational and recreational programs, including UI WILD initiatives like the Iowa Raptor Project, Iowa Wildlife Camps and School of the Wild. It also hosts numerous classes offered through the university’s Lifetime Leisure Skills program.
According to a release, School of the Wild and Wildlife Camps will continue beyond the MNRA lease expiration. Leaders from the College of Education and UI WILD program are actively seeking new locations to host their outdoor learning experiences for Iowa’s K–12 students. The Iowa Raptor Project will also continue at a new site.
“We are deeply proud of the impact School of the Wild has had across the state,” said Dan Clay, dean of the College of Education. “It will absolutely continue — just in a new home. Our team is working to ensure students continue to benefit from high-quality, immersive environmental learning opportunities.”
UI says it will work with its colleges, units and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to determine the next steps in winding down operations at the MNRA. The university expects to finalize these plans sometime this fall.
