An introduction to REAP (from the DNR website):
REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) is a program that Iowa invests in to enhance and protect the state's natural and cultural resources.  Depending on the individual programs, REAP provides money for projects through state agency budgets or in the form of grants.  REAP is funded by the state's general fund and receipts from the sale of the natural resource license plate.    

The program is authorized to receive $20 million per year until 2021, but it has only realized that level of funding in one year (1991) since its inception in 1989.  The state legislature sets the amount of REAP funding every year, and in recent years that level has been $9 million from the general fund.  Interest from the REAP account and receipts from the sale of natural resource license plates add about $1.5 million to this appropriation.

Currently, the REAP "formula" (fund allocation) looks like this:
First $350,000 each year goes to Conservation Education.
1% of the balance goes for DNR administration and is divided into the following areas: 15% City Parks and Open Space; 28% DNR Open Space; 3% Roadside Vegetation; 5% Historical Resources; 9% DNR Land Management; 20% County Conservation; 20% Soil and Water Enhancement.

Plan to attend your regional REAP Assembly.  These are open public meetings where all REAP programs and associated projects are presented.  Opportunities for regional REAP projects are also identified at these meetings, and participants may recommend changes to REAP policies, programs, and funding.  The schedule for 2002 Assemblies is listed below.  All meetings are scheduled for 7 to 9:30 PM.