Description: Water resource management is full of “wicked problems” — challenges where economic growth, public access, and environmental protection all pull in different directions, and no single fix satisfies everyone. This featured panel tackles one of these head-on, exploring how communities balance growth on highly valuable and highly vulnerable lands in the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Panelists will discuss resource vulnerabilities, planning and zoning tools, and real examples of successful collaboration, along with the tradeoffs. Drawing on experience connecting recreation, conservation, and community development, the conversation will show that balancing growth and stewardship isn’t about picking a winner — it’s about making room for progress and protection.