Dubuque Nature Everywhere Request for Approval of Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR)City of Dubuque
City Council
ACTION ITEMS # 1.
Copyrighted
November 17, 2025
ITEM TITLE: Dubuque Nature Everywhere Request for Approval of
Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR)
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council approval of a
Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights based upon the
feedback of the City Council at their work session as well as
the feedback from meetings held with community members
including youth and organizations since July 2025. Dubuque
Nature Everywhere will make a presentation.
RESOLUTION Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill Of Rights
Approval And Adoption By City Council
SUGGUESTED Receive and File; Adopt Resolution(s); Presentation
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo
2. Staff Memo
3. Dubuque Nature Everywhere Request Letter to Council
4. Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights
5. Resolution
6. Dubuque Nature Everywhere Draft Vision and Implementation Plan
7. Dubuque Nature Everywhere Vision/Mission 1-pager
8. Work Session Slides —Dubuque Nature Everywhere_July 21, 2025
9. Presentation
Page 501 of 750
Dubuque
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TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Dubuque Nature Everywhere Request for Approval of Children's Outdoor
Bill of Rights (COBOR)
DATE: November 10, 2025
Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Kalcevich is recommending City Council
approval of a Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights based upon the feedback of the
City Council at their work session as well as the feedback from meetings held with
community members including youth and organizations since July 2025.
The creation of a Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what access to
nature should look like and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for
nature connection in a community. What is a COBOR? It is a list of outdoor
experiences that every child has a right to experience. It is a public -facing symbol of the
overarching goals a city has for its children's outdoor experiences. It creates a shared
vision for children's access to the outdoors. It is a messaging tool that raises awareness
of the importance of children's connection to nature. It is a values statement and a
framework for future activities, programs and opportunities within our community.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Y
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:sv
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Matthew Kalcevich, Parks and Recreation Director
Marie L. Ware, Acting Project and Facilities Manager and member of Dubuque
Nature Everywhere
Jared McGovern, Wanderwood Gardens and Dubuque Forward Recreation
Spaces and Natural Areas Passion Team
Page 502 of 750
Lisa TeBockhorst, Director of Early Childhood Education Dubuque Community
School District
Daniele Willis and Kaitlin Schmidt, St. Mark Youth Enrichment
Dee Althoff, Hills and Dales
Tara Roddick, Child Care Resource and Referral of Northeast Iowa
Kaytlan Moeller, Dubuque County Conservation
Colleen McKenna, Dubuque Nature Everywhere Coordinator
2
Page 503 of 750
THE COF
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Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Matthew K. Kalcevich, Parks and Recreation Director
Dubuque
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SUBJECT: Dubuque Nature Everywhere Request for Approval of Children's Outdoor
Bill of Rights (COBOR)
DATE: November 10, 2025
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memorandum is to request Mayor and City Council consideration
and approval of the Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR).
BACKGROUND
The following outlines Dubuque Nature Everywhere's work to date.
September 3, 2024 The Council approved the City of Dubuque becoming applying for
Nature Everywhere Accelerator Community Technical Assistance, approved a letter of
support signed to be signed by the Mayor, and appointed Parks and Recreation Director
Marie Ware as the City representative on the local leadership team.
Nature Everywhere is an initiative of Children & Nature Network (C&NN), National
League of Cities, and the KABOOM! Foundation. The application for the Nature
Everywhere Accelerator Community Technical Assistance committed to development of
a community -wide Nature Everywhere vision and implementation plan using a systems -
change approach that focuses on nature connection strategies such as early childhood
nature connections at a community -wide scale; elevating equitable access; and
engaging BIPOC partners.' It was further committed to activate city government, school
districts, and grassroots to build momentum for nature access. C&NN would provide
access to tools and resources (specifically mapping and community engagement tools),
peer learning events, technical assistance, and attendance at an in -person lab focusing
on successful nature connection and community engagement along with access to a
national peer learning network.
The application outlined the assistance areas of equitable access in August of 2024. The work in the
implementation phase of the Nature Everywhere Accelerator Community is focused on removing barriers,
success for all, welcoming and supportive environments, and community engagement.
Page 504 of 750
Mid -September 2024 Dubuque was chosen to become a Nature Everywhere
Accelerator Community Technical Assistance program sponsored by the Children &
Nature Network, National League of Cities, and KABOOM! Foundation after a
competitive application process. Dubuque was the first city in Iowa to be chosen.
October 28-30, 2024 The Dubuque Nature Everywhere team attended the Nature
Everywhere Vision Lab where we learned about proven nature connection strategies
from technical experts and data from the sponsors, in addition to touring some on the
ground successes in Milwaukee.
The Dubuque Nature Everywhere team identified their area of focus as early Childhood
Nature Connection with the following goal and definitions.
Goal: Development of an Early Childhood Nature Connection Strategy and
Implementation Plan
1. Early Childhood: For this strategic planning effort Dubuque Nature Everywhere
defined early childhood as being children ages 0-6.
2. Audiences: Children ages 0-6 and their caregivers, childcare providers, early
childhood educators, other early childhood stakeholders.
October 2024 to present The local team has been meeting bi-weekly and working on
the commitments made above with the assistance of the Technical Assistance Team
from Children & Nature Network and the National League of Cities. The local Dubuque
Nature Everywhere team is Jared McGovern from Wanderwood Gardens and Dubuque
Forward Recreation Spaces & Natural Areas Passion Team, Lisa TeBockhorst, Director
of Early Childhood Education Dubuque Community School District, Daniele Willis and
Kaitlin Schmidt of St. Mark Youth Enrichment, Dee Althoff of Hills and Dales, Tara
Roddick of Child Care Resource and Referral, Kaytlan Moeller of Dubuque County
Conservation, and Marie Ware (near retirement) and Matt Kalcevich of the City of
Dubuque. Interested community members continue to be recruited at the events and
activities attended by Dubuque Nature Everywhere.
The local team has monthly technical assistance calls from the staff of Nature
Everywhere and the League of Cities. The calls have focused on the community scan
of programs and partners, policies and initiatives, coalition and movement building, case
making and guiding decisions, equity mapping, community engagement, developing an
implementation plan, and sustaining Dubuque's Nature Everywhere initiative. Each call
and in between calls the team receives potential funding opportunities.
December 2024 The team adopted a vision and mission.
Vision Statement: Inspiring meaningful nature connections for all young children to be
happy, healthy, and hopeful
Mission Statement: Dubuque Children and Nature's mission is to connect all young
children aged 0-6 with nature every day by
1. Inspiring a community movement to foster awareness and buy -in for Nature
Everywhere
2. Empowering households, caregivers, and educators with tools, trainings,
continuing education, and resources
2
Page 505 of 750
3. Collaboratively bridging gaps in equitable access
4. Focusing on nature space improvements that support community climate
resilience
January 2025 Dubuque Nature Everywhere teamed up with Dubuque Forward as the
fiscal agent with connection to their Recreation Spaces & Natural Areas Passion Team.
The Team is supported by Wendy Scardino, Director of Dubuque Forward, Claira
Sieverding Kapraun and Debi Butler of Dubuque Forward.
The team applied for and received a seed funding grant of $50,000 from Children &
Nature Network, National League of Cities, and KABOOM! Foundation. This grant
included hiring Colleen McKenna part-time to work on the initiative and community
engagement and purchase of supplies to assist with meetings, gatherings, and give
giveaways. This allowed a focused effort on community engagement.
January 2025 to present The team developed a one -pager to explain the Dubuque
Nature Everywhere initiative (attached). Branding for Dubuque Nature Everywhere was
developed and is now being used. The team created our community's assessment
using a workbook provided by Children & Nature Network which includes a policy scan,
review of relevant organizational plans, research for relevant stakeholders, programs/
experiences, policies. Community focus engaged many community experts in their
expertise area as well as nature play advocates and interested parents. The team
attended community events, meeting people where they are and hearing their input.
Each of these activities was used in the development of an action plan.
The team determined an early action step was to engage the community, develop, gain
support for, and bring forward for adoption by City Council and other organizations and
individuals a Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights. SPREL_
May 2025 The team brought the Kids to Parks
Proclamation to May 5 City Council meeting and hosted a
table at the Parks and Recreation kite event on May 17 at
Allison Henderson to celebrate Kids to Parks Day.
The national Nature Everywhere Conference was attended
by Daniele Willis and Kaitlin Schmidt of St. Mark Youth Enrichment as well as Tara
Roddick, Child Care Consultant Supervisor for Childcare Resource and Referral of
Northeast Iowa. Tara works with childcare providers across the community and was
excited to be invited to this opportunity as childcare providers (0-6) have been asking for
more nature connection resources. Tara's registration was paid for by the Children and
Nature Network.
June -Present 2025 The Dubuque Nature Everywhere Team planned and executed
community engagement with over 10 focus groups, had an open survey on-line and
promoted input through it and attended various community events to engage the
community in the vision, give input and share perspectives. A Technical Assistance Visit
3
Page 506 of 750
by Children & Nature Network and National League of Cities took place in July. A
website presence was developed on the Dubuque Forward website,
https://dubugueforward.com/nature-everywhere connecting people to their work and
efforts. Volunteers have been stepping up to become a part of the work moving
forward. A City Council Work Session was held on July 21 with the Dubuque Nature
Everywhere Team that shared their progress to date and desire to present in the future
to the City Council for consideration of adopting a Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights for
Dubuque.
The team coordinated mapping and data discovery that is being used in the
implementation planning. The mapping will be a continuing work in progress as we dig
deeper into the data. Many thanks to the City's GIS team for assisting in this app with
data mapping work.
https://dubugue.maps.arcgis.com/apes/instant/atlas/index.html?appid=fOf23316172e4d3
0968e1637e4d2579b&webmap=6ebbd63d861342e8b4f27f6edb679b39
Dubuque Nature Everywhere had a booth at the National Night Out event at Comiskey
Park and hosted a butterfly tent that allowed the event goers to go into a tent and
experience live butterflies close up. It was an opportunity to connect with neighbors and
ask them for input into the importance of nature from their perspective.
DISCUSSION
The Dubuque Nature Everywhere team is requesting the City Council's approval of a
Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights based upon the feedback of the City Council
at their work session as well as the feedback from meetings held with community
members including youth and organizations since July. Their request is a part of this
City Council action item.
The creation of a Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what access to
nature should look like and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for
nature connection in a community. What is a COBOR? It is a list of outdoor
experiences that every child has a right to experience. It is a public -facing symbol of the
overarching goals a city has for its children's outdoor experiences. It creates a shared
vision for children's access to the outdoors. It is a messaging tool that raises awareness
of the importance of children's connection to nature. It is a values statement and a
framework for future activities, programs and opportunities within our community.
Dubuque Nature Everywhere researched other community's COBOR. From this
research, the team drafted the COBOR and began sharing it at various community
events including the Lincoln Elementary School Carnival, Kids Expo (sponsored by
Dubuque County Early Childhood, and Dubuque County Conservation's Haunted Habits
Halloween hike. Individuals took time out of their busy schedule to stop by the Dubuque
Forward office to sign it as they felt so strongly about this work.
0
Page 507 of 750
The feedback at each event from both children, parents and other adults with children
under their care. Many of the adults as they signed the COBOR talked about how
important nature is to them and the children in their lives. They talked about the benefits
to their children and their family. The children talked about the activities that they loved
in nature. Some of them put their name specifically next to the activity (specific right on
the Bill of Rights) they enjoyed or pointed
3, an arrow at it. Others talked about the
Ilk friends they did the activity with. One
child wrote "mother nature rocks". Each
Dubuque Nature Everywhere team
i$ member has a story of their interactions
at the events. The support across the
events that Dubuque Nature Everywhere
attended was universal.
This community feedback mirrors what
�
91'lJ Parks and Recreation has heard. There
9C> %vs have been more calls for nature/outdoor
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play beginning with Reimagine Comiskey
and most recently with the Rustic Point Park development project. The community
engagement identified nature play as their top choice and as such the park being
constructed in 2026 is a nature themed park development.
The COBOR meets the City Council goals of Healthy and Safe Community, Sustainable
Environment, and Diverse Arts, Culture, Parks, and Recreation Experiences and
Activities. Partnerships have been active throughout the processes of bringing support
Page 508 of 750
and signatures for the COBOR and discussions and potential activities and
opportunities to further the opportunities to allow children to have activities available that
are outlined in the COBOR.
Adoption of the COBOR kicks off the next phase of work for Dubuque Nature
Everywhere. The draft Vision and Implementation Plan is attached. The draft shares
research behind the work, community voices the team heard, barriers and opportunities,
as well as a strategic implementation plan outlining goals and potential implementation
projects. This is a draft document as the team continues to finalize the next step of their
work.
The technical advisors from Children & Nature Network and National League of Cities
shared the following feedback about Dubuque throughout the technical assistance time:
• The entire local team is "so passionate" about the work of Children and Nature
and moving it forward "getting it done". The quality of agendas has moved the
work forward.
• "The City Council is so engaged and supportive." (From the technical visit and
work session in July.)
• "Dubuque is a beautiful community". They were very impressed by numerous
locations including Comiskey Park, Bee Branch Creek Greenway, and the
Miracle League facilities at Veterans Memorial Park.
• They were impressed and commented on the "collaborative nature" of Dubuque
that they do not experience in other communities.
o The representation of the team from major stakeholders' organizations.
Dubuque had the most diverse, well represented team of stakeholders
they had experienced in the cohort that worked very well together.
o The engagement of many different stakeholders throughout the process
of engagement.
o The high level of engagement of invited additional stakeholders
attending focus groups and the relationships that were evident amongst
the team and all those present.
• The draft implementation plan (end of year report) is "far beyond" other
communities.
As the technical assistance through the Nature Everywhere Accelerator Community
Technical Assistance program nears an end, many thanks for the work and dedication
of every member of the Dubuque Nature Everywhere team for their enthusiasm,
expertise, and passion that accelerated the work and brought us to the presentation of
the Dubuque Children's Bill of Rights and the next steps. The draft Vision and
Implementation Plan (soon to be final document), a committed team, and enthusiastic
volunteers will keep Dubuque Nature Everywhere's momentum moving forward into the
coming years.
0
Page 509 of 750
ACTION REQUESTED
I respectfully request Mayor and City Council consideration of the Dubuque Children's
Outdoor Bill of Rights and recommend approval and adoption of the resolution.
Prepared by: Marie L. Ware, Acting Project and Facilities Manager and member of
Dubuque Nature Everywhere
cc: Jared McGovern, Wanderwood Gardens and Dubuque Forward Recreation
Spaces and Natural Areas Passion Team
Lisa TeBockhorst, Director of Early Childhood Education Dubuque Community
School District
Daniele Willis and Kaitlin Schmidt, St. Mark Youth Enrichment
Dee Althoff, Hills and Dales
Tara Roddick, Child Care Resource and Referral of Northeast Iowa
Kaytlan Moeller, Dubuque County Conservation
Colleen McKenna, Dubuque Nature Everywhere Coordinator
Steve Fehsal, Park Division Manager
Dan Kroger, Recreation Division Manager
7
Page 510 of 750
OU9000E
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EUERYWHERE
To: The Honorable Mayor and Members of the Dubuque City Council
From: Colleen McKenna on behalf of Dubuque Nature Everywhere
Date: November 7, 2025
Subject: Request for Adoption of Dubuque's Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights
Dear Mayor and Members of the Dubuque City Council,
On behalf of Dubuque Nature Everywhere, we extend our sincere gratitude for your
continued partnership. We are writing to formally request that the Dubuque City Council
adopt the Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) as a guiding document for
our community at the upcoming meeting on November 17, 2025.
We are deeply appreciative of your support for our application to become a Nature
Everywhere Accelerator Community and for the productive and insightful working session
we held together on July 21, 2025. In that session, we were proud to present our mission,
vision, and early findings from our community engagement, which directly led to the
COBOR we are now presenting.
Since we last met, our team has been deeply engaged in the community, listening to the
voices of hundreds of children and parents through surveys and at events like the Lincoln
Elementary School Carnival, Kids Expo, Open Closet at St. John's Lutheran, and the
Western Dubuque Family Wellness Event. We have also conducted numerous focus groups
with community leaders in early childhood education, conservation, faith, brain health,
public health, accessibility, and, most importantly, with parents.
We also hosted an inspiring and productive on -site visit from leaders at the Children &
Nature Network and the National League of Cities. During their visit, we met with a
broad coalition of stakeholders, including leaders from United Way, HACAP/Head Start,
the Community Foundation, Dubuque County (Health, Planning, and Conservation), the
Page 511 of 750
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Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Envision 2030, Dubuque Community School District,
Holy Family Catholic Schools, Crescent Community Health Center, and more.
After completing and analyzing this extensive outreach, we are thrilled to provide you
with a sneak peek of our draft Vision & Implementation Plan for your review. This plan
details our research and outlines a clear, actionable path forward. A foundational
component of this plan, which we shared as our primary next step during the July 21 work
session, is the Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights. We have completed that work,
and the attached poster represents the 10 fundamental rights that Dubuque children and
families have identified as most important for a healthy, happy childhood.
A children's outdoor bill of rights is more than a poster; it is a public commitment to the
physical, mental, and emotional health of our youngest residents. It signals that Dubuque
is a city that values its families and is dedicated to building a happier, healthier, and more
hopeful future for all. By adopting this measure, Dubuque would be one of the very first
cities in Iowa to do so —a truly momentous event that would set a new standard for the
state.
Thank you for your time, your leadership, and your consideration of this critical initiative.
Sincerely,
—The Dubuque Nature Everywhere Leadership Team
Deanne Althoff (Hills & Dales)
Lisa Feltes (Dubuque Community School
District)
Jared McGovern (Wanderwood Gardens)
Colleen McKenna (Lock Eleven)
Kaytlan Moeller (Dubuque County
Conservation)
Tara Roddick (Child Care Resource & Referral)
Kaitlin Schmidt (St. Mark Youth Enrichment)
Matt Kalcevich, Marie Ware (City of Dubuque)
Danielle Willis (St. Mark Youth Enrichment)
2
Page 512 of 750
Dubuque Children's
i?#LL OF 9#614T5
ALL CHILDREN IN DUBUQUE HAVE THE RIGHT TO:
Safely explore vibrant neighborhoods,
parks, and school yards.
Play in the mud and sand, and get dirty.
Splash in clean creeks and rivers.
Climb a tree and scale a rock.
Hike or bike a trail.
Watch bugs, birds, and other wildlife as they crawl,
fly, hop, and transform across all four seasons.
Discover native plants and wildlife.
Plant a seed and watch it grow.
Sit quietly in nature.
OUBUOUE
Catch a fish. NATVQ�
EUERVWHERE
Prepared by Marie Ware, Acting Project and Facilities Mgr., 2200 Bunker Hill Road, Dubuque IA 52001 563-589-4263
Return to Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk, 50 W. 13"' St., Dubuque, IA 52001, (563) 589-4100
RESOLUTION NO. 376-25
DUBUQUE CHILDREN'S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS APPROVAL AND ADOPTION BY
CITY COUNCIL
Whereas, the City of Dubuque and a team of partners became a Nature Everywhere
Accelerator Community in September of 2024; and
Whereas, children are healthier, happier, and more hopeful, and perform better in school
when they learn and play in nature; and
Whereas, children are more resilient, more confident, more creative, and better problem
solvers when they have safe access to parks, nature centers, rivers, streams,
and other outdoor spaces; and
Whereas, all children feel welcome at all of Dubuque's parks, pools, trails, waterways,
and open spaces; and
Whereas, communities enjoy stronger health outcomes, including lower mortality rates
and disease, with easy and regular access to nature; and
Whereas, children who develop a positive relationship with nature are more likely to
become tomorrow's stewards of our natural heritage; and
Whereas, through its parks, trails, waterways, open spaces, and other natural spaces,
Dubuque and regional collaborators provide a wide variety of quality outdoor
opportunities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA THAT:
Section 1. The Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights is hereby approved and adopted
by the City of Dubuque.
Passed, approved, and adopted this 17th day of November 2025.
Brad avanagh, Mayor
Attest:
Adrienne N. Breitfelder,'City Clerk
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Table of Contents
3 About the Authors
4 Dubuque Nature Everywhere
5 -:cutive Summary
7 Why This Matters: A Review o`
Key Research
14 Community Voices: Feedback
From Dubuque Focus Groups
17 The Challenge: A Multi -
Layered Look at Barriers and
Opportunities
22 Our Path Forward: A Strategic
Implementation Plan
A Note on Our Evolving Work
We support the City of Dubuque's Park and
Recreation Master Plan process.
Once that data becomes available, we will
integrate those new findings into our working
groups to ensure our team's efforts are fully
aligned and as impactful as possible.
.
0
About the Authors
Deanne Althoff
Mission Advancement &
Community Relations
Director, Hills & Dales
Colleen McKenna
Founder, Head of
Marketing Strategy,
Lock Eleven
Kaitlin Schmidt
Lisa Feltes
Exec. Director of
Elementary Education,
Dubuque Community
School District
Kaytlan Moeller
Outreach Coordinator,
Dubuque County
Conservation
Marie Ware
Jared McGovern
Director, Wanderwood
Gardens
Tara Roddick
Child Care Consultant
Supervisor, Child Care
Resource & Referral
Danielle Willis
Director of Strategic Parks & Recreation Director of Early
Resources, St. Mark Director (Retired), City of Childhood, St. Mark Youth
Youth Enrichment Dubuque Enrichment
Dnbuque Nature Everywhere 3
Page 517 of 750
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About Dubuque Nature Everywhere
Who We Are
The Children & Nature Network, National
League of Cities, and Kaboom! selected
Dubuque, IA to join Nature Everywhere
Communities —a national initiative to expand
access to nature where children live, learn, and
play.
As a project team of Dubuque Forward, we
aim to spark a community -wide movement that
helps every young child grow up with
meaningful, everyday connections to nature.
We envision a joyful, nature -rich childhood
where curiosity takes root and wonder grows
wild —and we're equipping families, educators,
and local leaders with the tools, spaces, and
inspiration to make it possible.
Our Vision
I
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To inspire meaningful nature connections for
all young children to be happy, healthy, and
hopeful.
Our Mission
To connect all young children aged 0-6 with
nature every day by:
• Inspiring a community movement to foster
awareness and buy -in.
• Empowering households, caregivers, and
educators with tools, trainings, continuing
education, and resources.
• Collaboratively bridge gaps in access.
• Focusing on nature space improvements
that support community resilience.
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful Dubuque 4
Page 518 of 750
Executive Summary
A Happier, Healthier,
More Hopeful Dubuque
This report is an investment plan for
Dubuque's future. It outlines a data -driven,
community -vetted strategy to build a happier,
healthier, and more hopeful city by investing in
our most critical asset: our youngest residents.
Dubuque Nature Everywhere has a clear
mission: to connect every child aged 0-6 with
nature every day. This document is our
research, our community's feedback, and our
roadmap to make that mission a reality.
The Opportunity and
Urgency
The scale of this opportunity is immense. This
work is for the 4,818 children aged 0-6 living
in the City of Dubuque today, and for the
8,860 more who will be born here in the next
decade.
This investment is also urgent. We face a
national youth mental health crisis with the
American Academy of Pediatrics noting that
1 in 6 children under 6 years -old experiences
significant emotional or behavioral
concerns.
Initiatives that measurably improve the
quality of life for young families are no longer
optional. They are an essential strategy for
our city's long-term growth and vitality.
What We Learned: Data
and the Voices
Our research confirms that for many Dubuque
families, nature is out of reach. While our
community is rich in natural beauty, systemic
barriers prevent thousands of children from
accessing it.
• Poverty: In the City of Dubuque, 1 in 9
children (10.8%) aged 0-6 lives in poverty.
This makes the cost of gear, programs, and
even bug spray a significant barrier.
• Transportation: In our downtown and
northend census tracts, as many as 1 in 3
households have no vehicle. This barrier,
combined with our city's steep bluffs,
makes premier destinations like Mines of
Spain, Swiss Valley, and the Arboretum
completely unreachable for thousands of
families.
To build our plan, we listened. We synthesized
this data with feedback from over 10
community focus groups and hundreds of
parent surveys. This synthesis (page 14)
revealed key strengths to build on —like the
Arboretum and Miracle League Park —and
three critical barriers we must overcome:
• The Adult Mindset Gap: A lack of
confidence and experience among adults,
often the source of fear of bugs, dirt, and
risk, is the number one barrier.
Page 519 of 750
• The Information Gap: Information is
scattered. Parents don't know where to go,
what's free, or which parks have bathrooms
or stroller -friendly trails.
• The Access Gap: The cost of gear, lack of
transportation, and a critical need for
spaces for children of all abilities remain
significant hurdles.
From Insight to Impact:
Our Action Plan
Our implementation plan (page 22) directly
answers these challenges with three
community -led working groups. We are
launching these groups with a clear set of
quick -win projects to build momentum, guided
by data -driven SMART goals.
Working Group 1: Empowering
Households, Caregivers, and
Educators
This group will tackle the mindset and
information gaps. Its flagship project is the
Dubuque Nature Everywhere digital hub: a
one -stop -shop website with park audits, a
Nature Score for 0-6 year -olds, and a map of
family -friendly amenities. It will also secure
accredited professional development to build
the confidence of our childcare providers.
Working Group 2: Collaboratively
Bridging Gaps in Access,
Inclusivity, and Belonging
This group will remove systemic barriers. Its
first major win in progress the Dubuque
Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR),
which will be presented to the City Council on
November 17 to be adopted as a guiding policy
document. The group will also launch a free
community gear library and develop a
weekend nature trolley to finally connect our
downtown and northend families to our
premier parks.
Working Group 3: Focusing on
Nature Space Improvements &
Community Well -Being
This group will bring nature to where people
are. It will create a nature -expert dream team
of local stormwater, plant, and conservation
experts to provide free consultations to
schools, churches, and childcare centers. It will
also fund turnkey natural playscapes at pilot
sites through a new nature play scholarship
program.
The Path Forward: How
You Can Help
This report is our roadmap. It is data -driven,
community -vetted, and actionable. We are not
just building playgrounds; we are building a
more resilient and attractive community for
the families of today and tomorrow.
Whether you are a city leader, a business
owner, a philanthropist, or a passionate
resident, you have a role in this work.
The health of our children and the future
vitality of our city are interconnected. We
invite you to join us. Fund a project, lend your
expertise to a working group, and help us build
a happier, healthier, more hopeful Dubuque for
generations to come.
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful
Page 520 of 750
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Why This Matters: A Review of Key Research
As leaders invested in Dubuque's long-term These benefits extend beyond each individual �.
future, we have no greater responsibility than child, creating a positive ripple effect that
ensuring our children have the best possible leads to stronger families, a better -connected
start in life. community, and a more robust local economy.
This section breaks down the powerful, This is not a nice -to -have concept. It's an
science -backed reasons why one of the most essential strategy for building a thriving
effective investments we can make is in nature Dubuque for generations to come.
and outdoor play for children ages 0 to 6.
10
Dubuque Nature Everywhere 7
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By the Numbers: The Opportunity in Our Own Backyard
To understand why nature connections matter The Broader Region
so much for Dubuque children right now, let's
look at the numbers.
Looking wider at Dubuque County, the current
number of children aged 0-6 is approximately
This isn't a small issue. It impacts thousands of
8,653.1 The county as a whole sees over 1,107
children and families today, in addition to the
births annually,' meaning we can expect an
thousands more who will call our city home in
additional 5,535 children in the next five years
the near future.
and 10,000 in the next decade across the
county.
Our City
These numbers represent a profound
Right now, there are approximately 4,818
opportunity. The following sections outline the
children aged 0-6 living in the City of
clear and compelling evidence for why a
Dubuque, according to the most recent
strategic focus on nature and outdoor play is
population estimates from the U.S. Census
the key to unlocking that opportunity.
Bureau's American Community Survey.'
A Growing Need
!1
The City of Dubuque sees nearly 886 births
,
each year, according to the Iowa Health and
Human Services Statistics. Based on this
consistent annual data, we can project that
over the next five years, 4,430 more babies
will be born here, and in the next decade, that
number is expected to reach 8,860. 10
' U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey-, Table DP05 ' Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. (2024) Vital Statistics of
Iowa 2023 a Early Childhood Education Journal, Springer
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful P-1 --
Page 522 of 750
The Scale of Opportunity
Total Children (0-6) Served Over the Next Decade
Current Children N Children Born (Next 5 Years) 8 Children Born (Next 10 Years)
Dubuque County
City of Dubuque
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Number of Children
Below the Poverty Line 1 in 9 Children: Poverty Among
Dubuque's 0-6 Year -Olds
To further highlight the importance of An esurnated to.a; of cniiUren aged o b in the City of
Dubuque live below the poverty tine
bridging gaps, our community's challenges are
also clear in the data. According to the 2023
U.S. Census 5-Year Estimates,' an estimated
8.6% of children aged 0-6 in Dubuque
County —or approximately 728 children —
live in poverty.
This need is even more concentrated within
the City of Dubuque, where the poverty rate
for the same age group rises to 10.8%, or
approximately 507 of our youngest
residents. This data provides a stark,
statistical backbone to what we repeatedly
heard in our focus groups: financial hurdles
are a primary barrier to nature access for a
significant portion of our community.
This 10.8% poverty rate, representing
approximately 1 in 9 of our youngest
children, means that cost is a significant
obstacle. For these families, acquiring items
like weather -appropriate gear or paying for
programming is simply not feasible.
Without Transportation
This challenge of access is compounded by
transportation. In Dubuque's downtown and
northend census tracts, as many as 25% to
35% of households are without a car.5 This
barrier is uniquely amplified by our city's
steep bluffs, which make walking or biking
with young children nearly impossible for
those without a vehicle.
° U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5 Year Estimates, Table S1701 ' U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5 Year
Estimates, Table DP04
Dubngnt- Nature F
Page 523 of 750
Building Healthy Brains & Bodies
Smarter, More Focused Kids
Think of nature as the ultimate classroom.
Research in sources like the Early Childhood
Education Journal -'show that children who
learn and play in natural settings show
improved attention, better problem -solving
skills, and greater school readiness."
This happens as natural environments engage
all the senses and require constant adaptation.
For example, a child navigating a fallen log is
learning spatial awareness and physics.
This engagement supports what researchers
call Attention Restoration Theory,' which
suggests that nature helps recharge the
brain's ability to focus, making children
better learners when they return indoors.
Physical Health & Coordination
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)` is
clear: kids need at least 60 minutes of active
play every day.
More than just building strong muscles,
playing on varied, uneven terrain develops the
crucial vestibular system (our sense of
balance) and proprioception (our awareness of
our body in space).
Furthermore, a compelling body of research
shows that time spent outdoors is a key
factor in reducing the risk of myopia (also
known as nearsightedness)" in children.
Emotional Resilience & Well-being
Supporting the emotional health of our
children is a critical priority, especially as the
AAP also notes that approximately 16% of
children under 6 —about 1 in 6—have
clinically significant mental health
challenges. The AAP specifies these often
present as "dysregulated emotional or
behavioral patterns including anger,
aggression, or anxiety.""
Time in nature is one of the best tools we have
for raising emotionally healthy children. The
National Association for the Education of
Young Children (NAEYC)" highlights how
outdoor play helps reduce stress and anxiety
in kids.
When a child learns to navigate a "risky" but
safe challenge, they build confidence and
resilience that will serve them for their entire
lives.
' Children & Nature Network, "A systematic review of the evidence for learning in nature -based early childhood education" ' National Library of
Medicine, "The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting With Nature" ' American Academy of Pediatrics, "The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in
Enhancing Development in Young Children" ' American Academy of Ophthalmology, "To Reduce Myopia Risk, New Study Says Time Outdoors Is
Key" " American Academy of Pediatrics "Mental Health in Infants and Young Children: Pediatric Mental Health Minute Series." " National
Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), "Outdoor Play Is Essential"
Page 524 of 750
More Than Just Child's Play: Stronger Families and a
Tighter Community
Connecting Families
When a family spends time together outdoors,
they connect differently. Away from screens
and household chores, parents and children
spend more time talking and building positive
memories.
Research shows that parent -child co -play in
nature reduces parental stress and improves
mood," strengthening the entire family unit.
Teaching Kindness & Teamwork
Unstructured outdoor play is where crucial
social skills are born. In a park or natural play
area, children learn how to work together, take
turns, and include others.
Research from institutions like the Society for
Research in Child Development'' indicates
that this type of play is crucial for developing
empathy and fostering positive peer
Building a Better Dubuque
A city that invests in green spaces is a city
that invests in its people. Parks, trails, and
public gardens are a form of "social
infrastructure."
They become natural meeting spots where
families from all walks of life can connect. This
interaction builds trust and social capital,
weaving a stronger, more resilient community
fabric.
relationships.
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An Investment in Our Economic Future
Attracting & Retaining Talent
In today's competitive landscape, top talent
looks for a high quality of life. Research
from the National Recreation and Park
Association (NRPA)" shows that high -quality
parks are a key factor for families and skilled
professionals when choosing where to live.
Boosting Business & Tourism
Natural spaces are good for business. For a
city like Dubuque, situated on the magnificent
Mississippi River, this is a powerful asset.
Enhancing access to our riverfront, expanding
trail systems like the Heritage Trail, and
creating unique natural playscapes can draw
In fact, studies consistently show that homes significant tourism. These visitors, in turn,
located near well -maintained parks have spend money at local hotels, restaurants, and
higher property values," which contributes to shops, creating jobs and stimulating the local
a stronger tax base for the entire community. economy.
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A Healthy Start Begins Even Before Birth
Maternal & Infant Well-being
Time spent in nature provides a powerful,
natural way to enhance an expectant mother's
well-being by promoting a sense of calm and
relaxation. This is incredibly beneficial, as a
low -stress pregnancy environment is a key
building block for healthy fetal development.
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Research confirms this connection, showing
that mothers with easy access to green space
during pregnancy" " have improved birth
outcomes, such as healthier birth weights,
giving babies the strongest possible start to
life.
19 National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), "The Economic Impact of Parks and Recreation" is The Trust for Public Land, "The Economic
Benefits of Local Parks" " Science Daily,, "Newborns living near trees tend to be healthier"
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful P, L—,
Page 526 of 750
Putting it into Practice: What Kind of Play Helps Most?
Playing with Loose Parts
According to our local early education experts,
some of the best play materials are free. Think
of mud, sand, water, leaves, stones, and
sticks. This kind of sensory play is
fundamental for the developing brains of
infants and toddlers.
Constructive Play
This is the next step after playing with loose
parts. It involves using those natural
materials to build something —a dam in a
stream, a fort out of fallen branches, or a
sculpture from rocks and leaves. This type of
play fosters early engineering skills, creativity,
and collaboration.
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Imaginative & Creative Play
Sticks and pinecones can become a tiny village.
A big rock can become a spaceship. Nature is
the perfect backdrop for make-believe, which
is essential for developing language, creativity,
and storytelling skills.
Healthy Risk -Taking
We need to give kids the chance to test their
limits in a safe way. Risky play —a thrilling
type of free play —involves uncertainty and an
element of danger. Things like climbing,
balancing, jumping, sledding, exploring, and
using tools all help to build good judgement,
resilience, creativity, and resilience.
Page 527 of 750
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Community Voices:
Feedback From Dubuque Focus Groups
The following is a summary of the key themes that emerged from a series of more than 10 in-depth,
focus group conversations with Dubuque community members from June to September 2025. This
analysis combines the strategic insights of local experts in early childhood, early education,
conservation, accessibility, public health, and faith as well as leaders at the National League of Cities,
Children and Nature Network, and the Dubuque business community.
Additionally, it includes insights and on -the -ground perspectives of hundreds of Dubuque parents,
guardians, and caregivers gathered through targeted surveys, events, and public conversations.
Together, they provide a clear and comprehensive picture of Dubuque's strengths, challenges, and
greatest opportunities.
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful P„ -,
Page 528 of 750
What's Working: Dubuque's Strengths
Participants consistently identified a strong
set of existing parks, programs, and
community attributes that serve as a powerful
foundation for this work. There is a clear sense
that Dubuque has many of the right
ingredients for success.
Beloved Places & Why They Work
Several key locations were repeatedly praised
not just for their existence, but for specific
attributes that make them successful for
families with young children.
Accessibility & Thoughtful Design
The Dubuque Riverwalk, Miracle League of
Dubuque Complex, the arboretum, and the
Bee Branch Creek Corridor were celebrated
for features like paved walking paths, ample
parking, and wheelchair accessibility. The
connectivity of the Bee Branch was lauded as a
"greenway" that allows families to easily travel
between parks and neighborhoods.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Parents consistently value spaces where they
feel at ease. The presence of other families,
well -maintained equipment, and especially
fenced -in play areas like at Miracle League
Park were cited as critical features that reduce
parental anxiety.
A Blend of Nature and Park
Comiskey Park was held up as a model for its
integration of traditional park elements like a
splash pad with natural green space, serving
as a vital hub for residents where
transportation is a major barrier. This blend is
seen as a best practice for future development.
Opportunities for Unstructured Play
The Mines of Spain and Swiss Valley were
valued for providing a space where children
can engage in creative, free exploration with
no "rules" to dictate what they do. This echoes
the cherished childhood memories of many
participants, who recalled the freedom of
playing in creeks, woods, and on farms.
Valued Programs and Community
spirit
Beyond physical places, participants
highlighted key initiatives and cultural assets.
Successful Local Initiatives
Programs like Mowing to Monarchs and
Dubuque's Branching Out tree program are
seen as successful models for integrating
nature into the community. Educational efforts
like the "Growing Up Wild" curriculum are
being adopted by early childhood centers.
Lowering Barriers
Dubuque County Conservation was praised
for its program offering free or rentable gear
like snowshoes and kayaks, which helps
overcome the financial barrier to entry. The
city's Family Scholarship Program was also
noted as a valuable, if under -publicized,
resource.
4
A Strong Culture of Volunteerism and
Partnership
Multiple groups noted that Dubuque benefits
from a strong sense of volunteerism and a high
number of organizations dedicated to nature
and conservation.
The willingness of local organizations to
partner is a clear strength, with examples like
the Dubuque Community School District
partnering with Dubuque County
Conservation and the Dubuque Parks and
Recreation Department to bring outdoor
experiences to their elementary school
students.
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The Challenge: A Multi -Layered Look_at
Barriers and Opportunities
While the desire for nature connection is strong, Dubuque families and providers face a complex web
of interconnected barriers. These challenges, identified consistently across focus groups and surveys,
align directly with the four strategic pillars of Dubuque Nature Everywhere's mission. Understanding
these barriers in depth illuminates a clear path toward a future where every child can benefit from
daily connection to the outdoors.
Dubuque Nature Everywhere 17
Inspiring a Community Movement: Overcoming Adult
Mindsets and Cultural Norms
The most frequently cited barrier was not a lack of spaces, but the mindsets and anxieties of adults. A
community -wide movement is needed to reframe nature as an essential part of childhood, not just a
recreational option.
The Barrier: Parental Fear and
the Value Gap
Participants noted that many adults who didn't
grow up with a strong nature connection are
less likely to facilitate it for their own children.
This "experience gap" breeds fear —of bugs,
weather, dirt, strangers, and potential injuries
—and a preference for structured, clean,
indoor activities over what is perceived as the
chaos of open-ended play.
As one professional observed, this anxiety is
transferred directly to children:
"Kids mirror their parents. When a 3-year-
old says they're afraid of spiders or they
can't go outside because it's too cold,
they're echoing what they've heard."
This leads to a "value gap," where parents
often seek a tangible return on investment,
like a craft to take home, rather than seeing
the intrinsic value of unstructured time. Many
residents feel they have access to manicured
parks but not to true, immersive nature.
"I think many of our residents have access
to parks. A lot fewer have access to nature."
Why It Matters: The Science of
Unstructured Play
This hesitation to embrace unstructured
outdoor play comes at a developmental cost.
Research published by the National
Association for the Education of Young
Children (NAEYC) shows that "risky play,"
such as climbing, balancing, and exploring, is
essential for developing resilience, executive
function, and sound judgment."
When adults over -structure play or prioritize
comfort over growth, they inadvertently limit
the development of these critical life skills. As
noted by brain and health experts in our focus
groups, unstructured outdoor play is the
number one activity for fostering problem -
solving, creativity, and sustained attention.
Overcoming this cultural barrier is
fundamental to unlocking the cognitive and
emotional benefits outlined in our foundational
research.
Empowering Households and Educators: Bridging the
Knowledge and Resource Gap
Even when the desire to get outside exists, parents and educators often feel they lack the specific
tools, training, and simple resources needed to make it happen confidently and consistently.
The Barrier: Lack of Knowledge
and Practical Resources
Educators in the Early Childhood focus group
reported that staff often lack the training
and confidence to lead nature -based
activities, feeling unsure how to engage
children with an anthill or a spider.
For parents, the barrier can be even more
fundamental. Many feel that nature is a
special destination rather than a part of
everyday life, not realizing the immense
learning opportunities right outside their door
"Nature is in your own backyard. If you
have a tree, a mud pile, an anthill —kids are
learning from that."
Furthermore, logistical hurdles like finding
non -toxic plants for a childcare center,
knowing how to safely anchor a log for a
natural playground, or sourcing affordable
"loose parts" (sticks, rocks, etc.) can halt
project before it starts.
Why It Matters: The Power of an
Empowered Adult
The Children & Nature Network research
library consistently shows that the confidence
and engagement of the adult caregiver are
primary predictors of a child's connection to
nature. When educators are trained in nature
pedagogy, it leads to improved educational
outcomes and deeper engagement from
students."
For parents, simple tools and resources can
demystify the outdoors and reduce the effort
required to go outside. By empowering adults
with knowledge —from activity ideas to how-to
guides for creating backyard nature spaces —
we equip them to become the most effective
champions for their children's development.
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Bridging Gaps in Access:
Addressing Deeper, Systemic Barriers
While some barriers are about mindset, others are deeply rooted in social, economic, and physical
systems that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
The Barrier: Social, Economic,
and Physical Hurdles
Transportation was a major recurring theme
across nearly all focus groups, with many
nature areas being inaccessible without a
personal vehicle.
The cost of weather -appropriate gear,
especially clothing that children quickly
outgrow, is another major issue.
However, the most profound barriers are often
social. For families with children with
disabilities, the biggest obstacle is not physical
access, but the fear of social judgment and
the need to protect their child's dignity in
public spaces.
"It's his dignity. If he struggles, I can get
him through it. We can decide whether to
try it again. But if he struggles and
somebody else sees it, I feel like a terrible
parent because I set him up to fail.
Somebody else has a bad image of him, and
that's not his fault."
This is compounded by a critical information
gap; under -publicized resources like the Park
& Rec scholarship or the county's free gear
library are not reaching the families who need
them most.
" Razani, N., et al. (2018). Clinic- and Community -Based
Nature Prescription Programs: A Call to Action. Journal of
Pediatrics, 203, 13-14
Why It Matters: Nature as a Social
Determinant of Health
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
and numerous public health studies identify
access to green space as a key social
determinant of health. A study in the Journal
of Pediatrics confirms that disparities in access
to nature are linked to poorer health and
developmental outcomes, particularly in low-
income and minority communities."'
Bridging these gaps is not just about fairness;
it is a direct investment in community -wide
public health, mood stability, and stronger
child development. Ensuring all families can
access nature safely and with dignity is
essential for building a truly healthy and
equitable community.
Nature Space Improvements: Designing for
Conservation, Resilience and Early Childhood
Finally, barriers exist in the design and maintenance of our public spaces. There's need for intentional
improvements that serve both our youngest children and our long-term nature resilience goals.
The Barrier: Mismatched Design
and Lack of Natural Elements
Early childhood professionals noted that many
public playgrounds are designed for school -
aged children (5-12) and are not
developmentally appropriate or safe for
toddlers and preschoolers. Many parks also
lack essential amenities like shade from trees,
which is a significant barrier in extreme heat.
Even when natural playgrounds are installed,
they can fall into disrepair without a clear
maintenance plan. Faith communities also cited
a lack of volunteers and resources to
maintain their own grounds, limiting their
ability to create new natural spaces.
Why It Matters: The Benefits of
Natural, Resilient Spaces
Research in environmental psychology
demonstrates that play in diverse, natural
environments offers superior cognitive and
emotional benefits compared to play on static,
manufactured equipment.)
Natural playscapes with native plants, trees,
and water features support greater
biodiversity, which in turn supports community
resilience by managing stormwater and
reducing urban heat island effects.
By intentionally designing parks with native
tree canopies, pollinator gardens, and
"stormwater play bowls," we can create spaces
that are more engaging for children, more
adaptive, and less expensive to maintain over
the long term.
Interested in more studies on
children and nature? Visit the
Children & Nature Network
Research Library.
Page 535 of 750
Our Path Forward:
A Strategic Implementation Plan
The research and community feedback have We will channel our efforts through three
provided a clear mandate: Dubuque is ready to dedicated working groups, each aligned with a
pillar of our mission.
invest in its youngest children by connecting core p -
them to nature. The challenges identified are, _ _ _ _OW '
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focused, collaborative action. aspirations into tangible, fundable projects
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Collaborative Action: Our Vision for Sustained Impact
To ensure this work is both effective and sustainable, we are establishing a shared -purpose model,
much like a corporation with multiple, interconnected departments. This structure will be powered by
three initial working groups. Each group will focus on a part of our mission, bringing together a
diverse mix of community experts, partners, and parents who work with children 0-6.
Our Launch Strategy
This model is designed for cross -collaboration.
We fully expect and encourage projects to be
co -owned by multiple working groups,
ensuring our efforts are integrated, efficient,
and never siloed.
Year One: Guided Action
The Dubuque Nature Everywhere leadership
team will guide these working groups for the
first year. We have developed the initial project
ideas outlined in the following pages to serve
as a clear roadmap, allowing us to secure quick
wins and build momentum.
Ongoing Evaluation
As these groups evolve, they will be
empowered to develop their own goals,
projects, and ideas based on their unique
focus, expertise, and our community's
changing needs.
Quarterly, Annual Alignment
A Phased Approach to Our Goals
We are adopting a two-phase SMART goal
strategy. Our Year I goals are foundational.
They are focused on building the essential
infrastructure, audits, and partnerships
needed to create a data -driven, sustainable
movement.
The completion of these goals will provide the
baseline data required to set our long-term
impact goals for Years 2-5. For example,
improve the "nature score" of X parks or
reduce the "opportunity gap" by X%.
Our Three Working Groups
Group One: Empowering households,
caregivers, and educators with tools, trainings,
continuing education, and resources.
Group Two: Collaboratively bridging gaps in
inclusivity, access, and belonging.
We will bring all working groups together Group Three: Focusing on nature space
quarterly and annually to share successes, improvements that support a healthy and
identify new opportunities, and collaboratively
sustainable community
plan our priorities for the coming year.
A Note on Partnerships and Fundraising
Identifying and securing sustainable funding is a cross -cutting goal for all working groups. We
will also building strategic partnerships with local organizations focused on nature -based play
and community access to leverage resources and ensure our collective success.
Dubuque Nature Ewr--l—
Page 537 of 750
Empowering Households, Caregivers, Educators with
Tools, Trainings, Continuing Education, and Resources
This working group is focused on overcoming two of our most cited barriers: the adult mindset gap
and the information gap. Our goal is to make nature play the easiest and most joyful choice by
equipping parents and professionals with the confidence, knowledge, and resources they need.
Foundational SMART Goals
Goal 1: Digital Hub
By the end 2026, launch the
Dubuque Nature Everywhere
digital hub as a one -stop
shop, featuring a resource
Goal 2: Professional Dev.
By the end of 2027, work with
Child Care Resource &
Referral (CCR&R) to make
more nature -based play
directory, event calendar, and programming through
a completed Nature Score Children & Nature Network
audit for at least 10 priority count toward provider
family parks. continuing education hours.
Initial Implementation Projects
The Dubuque Nature Everywhere
Digital Hub
We'll create a one -stop website to solve the
disparate sources problem identified in our
focus groups. This site will be the go -to
resource for parents and educators, featuring
• An interactive map of local parks and
nature areas.
• "Know before you go" audits of these
spaces, including info on bathrooms, shade,
and accessibility.
• A Nature Score to help parents find the
best spots and identify improvements.
• An events calendar, play -at-home ideas,
and links to vital resources like Mowing to
Monarchs and Branching Out Dubuque.
Goal3: Resource Pipeline
By Q3 2027, design and
publish the Nature Score
rubric, providing a clear,
measurable standard that can
be used for both the digital
hub and to guide the
improvement work of other
working groups.
Early Childhood Professional
Development
We will empower our educators by:
• Working with CCR&R to make Children &
Nature Network an approved education
provider, allowing more nature -based
programming to count toward providers'
continuing education hours.
• Providing free local speakers, webinars,
and networking opportunities to build a
community of practice.
• Establishing a "Dubuque Nature
Everywhere Scholarship" to fund
professionals to attend nature -based
conferences and trainings removing the
cost barrier to continued education.
Happier, Healthier, Hopeful T'
Page 538 of 750
Collaboratively Bridging Gaps in Inclusivity,
Access, and Belonging
This group is dedicated to ensuring every child and family feels they belong in Dubuque's outdoors. It
focuses on collaboratively bridging gaps in inclusivity and access by addressing the real -world
barriers —like transportation, cost, and social comfort —that can keep a family from participating.
Foundational SMART Goals
Goal 1: Policy Foundation
By December 1, 2025, achieve the formal
adoption of the Dubuque Children's Outdoor
Bill of Rights (COBOR) by the Dubuque City
Council, establishing a guiding policy
document for the entire community.
Goal 3: Removing Cost Barriers
By the end of 2027, launch the pilot
community gear library in partnership with
the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. It should
be complete with a functional check-out system
and a volunteer -run delivery/pickup service.
L
Goal 2: Opportunity Gap Map
By the end of Q3 2027, complete and publish
the ArcGIS "Opportunity Gap" map, clearly
identifying all residential areas, schools, and
childcare centers not within a 15-minute walk
of a quality nature space.
Goal 4: Transportation Solution
By the end of 2027, present a data -backed
proposal to the city transportation department
and private donors for a "hop -on, hop -off"
weekend nature trolley, based on the findings
from our map and community focus groups.
4
Initial Implementation Projects
The Dubuque Children's Outdoor Bill
of Rights (COBOR)
We will champion the adoption of the first
COBOR in the state of Iowa. This galvanizing
document, already signed by hundreds of
community members (see image below), will be
presented to the the Dubuque City Council on
November 17, 2025.
Its adoption will provide a guiding framework
for all future city planning, ensuring children's
right to nature is embedded in public policy.
Interactive, ArcGIS "Opportunity Gap"
Mapping
In partnership with the City of Dubuque's GIS
Team, we will complete our 15-minute walk to
nature analysis. This map will be a powerful
data -driven tool to:
• Share with community leaders to guide
investment in new nature play spaces.
• Deploy mobile resources like "loose parts"
kits to high -need areas, bringing nature to
the children.
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Initial Implementation Projects
Transportation Solutions for
Residents Without Vehicles
We will address the major transportation gap
by working with the city and donors to create a
"hop -on, hop -off" weekend trolley or bus route.
This service will finally connect residents in
the downtown and northend neighborhoods to
our community's premier nature destinations,
including Mines of Spain, Eagle Point Park,
Swiss Valley, and the Arboretum.
Inclusive Nature Access Roster
We will develop a roster of accessibility
experts who can consult with organizations on
creating truly inclusive spaces.
This team will focus on a wide spectrum of
needs, including physical accessibility, sensory
considerations, and invisible disabilities to
ensure all spaces are welcoming to children
and caregivers of all abilities.
�1
Nature Gear Lending Library
To alleviate the barrier of costly outdoor gear,
we will partner with the Carnegie -Stout Public
Library to create a free lending library.
This library will stock snowsuits, boots, and
other essential items. Critically, this program
will include a delivery and pickup service to
support educators, caregivers, and families for
whom a trip to the library is its own logistical
hurdle.
Nature Play Themed Rec & Roll Trailer
We will partner with donors and the City of
Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department to
create a mobile nature play trailer, stocked
with loose parts like sand, rocks, water, and
sticks.
Additionally, we will provide the staff training
to integrate it into their existing community
programming.
At
EAGLE POINT PARK
MINES OF SPAIN 7 '
LEY
4
Focusing on Nature Space Improvements that Support
a Healthy and Sustainable Community
This working group focuses on the physical "how-to" of improving our spaces. It will connect childcare
centers, schools, and churches with the expertise and resources they need to create natural
playscapes that are safe, engaging, and support our community's health and resilience goals.
Foundational SMART Goals
Goal 1: Assemble Experts
By the end of 2026, recruit
and formalize a 5-7 person
"nature expert dream team"
and establish a clear process
for organizations seeking
consultation.
Goal 2: Clarify Guidance
By the end of 2028, hold a
formal meeting with state
school and childcare licensure
entities to clarify the rules
and regulations surrounding
natural playscapes.
Initial Implementation Projects
The "Nature -Expert Dream Team"
We will create a volunteer roster of local
stormwater, plant, and conservation experts.
This dream team will provide free, on -site
consultations to schools, churches, childcare
centers, and residents that "don't know where
to start." The experts will help them design
and plan nature -based projects while saving
their limited budgets for materials and labor.
It
4P
Goal 3: Nature -Play Sites
By the end of 2028, design
and fully fund a "nature play
space program," and select
the first two pilot sites (e.g.,
one school, one childcare
center) to receive a turnkey
natural playscape installation.
Child -Safe Native Plantings
We will widely share the child -safe "Mowing to
Monarchs" seed mixture and program,
developed by Dubuque County Conversation
for St. Mark's Youth Enrichment. We will
actively connect organizations like Lincoln
Elementary to these funding and education
resources to help them integrate native pocket
prairies into their public spaces.
e 542 of 750
Initial Implementation Projects
Nature -Play Space Scholarship
We will create a "turnkey" scholarship for
childcare centers and schools. Awardees will
receive the funding, templated designs,
materials, and labor needed to build a high -
quality natural play area on their property,
removing all financial and logistical barriers
Dubuque Nature/COBOR Passport
We will partner with Travel Dubuque and the
Parks & Recreation Department to create a
nature passport program. This passport will
gamify exploration for families, guiding them
to our community's stunning nature areas and
encouraging them to complete the experiences
outlined in the Dubuque Children's Outdoor
Bill of Rights.
State -Level Guidance Advocacy
We will work directly with state school and
childcare licensure entities to demystify the
rules around natural playscapes. By
advocating for clear guidance, we can remove
the fear of fines and empower providers to
confidently incorporate nature elements into
their spaces.
Join Dubuque Nature Everywhere
Interested in funding a project? Want to join a
working group? Have an idea or resource you
want to share?
We're all ears. Contact us at:
team(a dbgnatureeverywhere.com.
What's Inside: Vision & Implementation Plan
A Happier, Healthier, More Hopeful Dubuque
In a time of rising youth anxiety, this report investigates a critical paradox: in a city as rich in
natural beauty as Dubuque, why are so many of our children aged 0-6 disconnected from it?
This report provides a comprehensive answer, pairing national research on the profound benefits of
outdoor play with the voices of our own community. It quantifies the real -world barriers our families
face —from the 1 in 9 children in poverty to the 1 in 3 downtown households without vehicle access —
and confirms that we have a clear, urgent opportunity to build a healthier, more hopeful city.
This report is more than a study —it is an actionable plan. Inside, you will find details our strategy to
launch three community -led working groups to solve the very barriers we identified.
It lays out a clear roadmap for tangible, quick -win projects, from creating a one -stop -shop digital hub
for parents and championing of Iowa's first Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights, to developing a free
community gear library and nature trolley to bridge access gaps. This document is the blueprint for
how our community can build a happier, healthier, and more hopeful Dubuque for generations to come.
f 750
The Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities, and Kaboom! selected the
City of Dubuque, IA to join a national initiative called Nature Everywhere Communities,
designed to increase equitable access to nature everywhere children live, learn, and
play.
As a project team of Dubuque Forward, our overarching goal is to ensure every young
child in Dubuque can grow up with meaningful, everyday experiences in nature. We aim to
spark a community movement that supports families, caregivers, and educators in
making nature a vibrant and accessible part of everyday life.
We envision a joyful, nature -rich childhood for every young child —where wonder
grows wild, curiosity takes root, and hope blossoms. We will do this by equipping
families, educators, and local leaders with the inspiration, spaces, and support to
Page 545 of 750
Early Childhood
Research shows that connecting young
children to nature during the early years of life
has many long-term benefits.
C
01
"4f
S/ Inspiring a community movement to foster awareness and buy -in.
Empowering households, caregivers, and educators with tools, trainings, continuing
education, and resources.
Collaboratively bridging gaps in equitable access.
Focusing on nature space improvements that support community climate resilience.
Children NATIONAL
� Nature LEAGUE VKIABOOM! DUoB
ENLCOFCITIES A "trr.ica• onUwM......i11
n
Dubuque
Network COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Lets OM"
- * ST. MARK �Ou"l�Vl
Create
Action • • • Hills&Dales ENRICHMENT
THE �� � _�
Wz ��rwo#
GARDENS �
Page 546 of 750
OUBUOUE
IVA TV A
EVERYWHERE
CITE CI
WORK SESSION
liN
JULY 21ff 2025
GU9000E
NATVQt-
EUERYWHERE
UR WHM AND HOW
-IT
0
N
To inspire meaningful
nature connections for all
young children to be happy,
healthy, and hopeful.
Page 549 of 750
it
HOW NATURE BENEFITS CHILDREN
T Physical activity
T Eye health
T Vitamin D
T Fetal growth
T Birth weights
J, Stress
J, Anger
Aggression
T Academic performance
T Creativity
T Focus +attention
T Impulse control
T Learning engagement
T Learning enthusiasm
ADHD symptoms
Disruptive behaviors
T Social skills
T Self-esteem
T Environmental
stewardship
T Connection to people +
nature
T Relationship skills
T Satisfaction with life
See research and one-,paggers._
aye 55�f /50
-0-
•��� tea.
1
' .3-'�:' �` � � -�.... � `.,ice► .�...
witil
nature. •. • -
is A"BUInspiring I communitv�_ - _- Ham. i - _� IT
J M v
--� = If
If
-- C LC Wmovement to foster
fir- u uawareness and buy -in. W
IL
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m 0
LA
_JLLwit
i ilk?ILL
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Ik
W"'•
MISSIOH
To connect all young children aged 0-6
with nature every day by:
Empowering households,
caregivers, and
educators with tools,
training, resources.
Page 552 of 750
40
mi I N
To connect all young children aged 0-6
with nature every day by:
Collaboratively
bridging yaps in
access and belonging.
KI
MI I N
To connect all young children aged 0-6
with nature every day by:
Focusing on nature
space improvements that
support community
climate resilience.
Page 554 of 750
HOW WE GOT HERE �
SEPT Dubuque selected as Nature Everywhere Accelerator
Community!
ocT— Vision, mission, strategies. Messaging, branding.
PRESENT Community scans of stakeholders, programs, policies, and
funding.
NUY-JUN Research, preparation for focus groups and events,
and community events. Proclamation —Kids to Parks.
JUN-JUL Focus groups/community engagement meetings
and increasing every day.
10
Page 555 of 750
WHATffs NEXT?
Focus groups continue, equity mapping, parents' survey,
JUL-AUG site visit from the Children and Nature Network, and the
National League of Cities.
SEP-OCT Summarize findings, quotes, themes, maps, presentations
of community engagement.
NOV-DEC Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights, quick wins based on
engagement, action plan based on engagement, working
groups created, fundraising, and grants.
Page 556 of 750
DU9000E
NATVQt-
EUERYWHERE
Focus GROUP
I mcrima uu u �m
NIGH PR
I ES
The Arboretum, Miracle League of Dubuque Complex,
Comiskey Park, Bee Branch Creek Greenway, River
Museum, and Mowing to Monarchs are favorites
6ensory-friendly design, accessible trails, multi -use water features,
proximity to diverse neighborhoods.
Free gear and education
Dubuque County Conservation's free kayak, snowshoe, and ski lending
breaks cost barriers and improves programming. Interacting with nature
in your own backyard.
Multiuse greenways
.. Linear corridors connect splash pads and playgrounds, enabling families
(often on bikes or scooters) to discover new spaces organically.
Page 558 of 750
�r
"Nature is in your own
1
backyard. If you have
a tree, a mud pile, an
anthill kids are
learning from that,"
4 ��� •r
RRIER T
NATURE
Adult engagement + confidence
Parents hesitate to take young kids outdoors if they didn't have a
strong connection to nature as children. Parents put too much
emphasis on structure and visible outcomes.
Logistics + costs
>> Weather- appropriate clothing, transportation, and time
constraints hamper participation.
Perceived safety + liability
Fear of bugs, injury, or legal repercussions (e.g., bee stings at
schools) leads to overly structured programming.
Page 560 of 750
y
"Kids mirror their parents. When a 3-year-old says
they're afraid of spiders or they can't go outside because
it's too cold, they're echoing what they've heard."
V
rr
1
WA .� J. r
foil 0 A
RRIER TO NATURE
Information gaps
Many families don't know what's available or how to access
scholarships, gear, or new park features.
Cultural norms + social judgment
» Caregivers often worry they'll break unspoken rules of outdoor
play or be judged by neighbors and peers. "It's the adults."
Under -represented groups
Single parents, families with children with disabilities, teens (as
sibling caregivers), and 0-6-year-olds themselves.
Page 562 of 750
"It's his dignity. If he
struggles, I can get him
through it. We can decide
whether to try it again.
But if he struggles and
somebody else sees it, I feel
like a terrible parent
because I set him up to fail.
�+ Somebody else has a bad
f
image of him, and that's not
his fault."
4000
I. /-'
s
M
"I think many of our residents have access
to parks. A lot fewer have access to nature ."
0
1 " i
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Rol
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41
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'� �4 !2Ea1i��R: �-.. _ 'r.�._a�.l�" �t !f��. "4ev .YM .: L._. •._ _
IDEAS � ASPIRATIONS
Bring nature to families
Pop-up kits and small-scale urban installations (e.g., planters, play
"Puddles") in neighborhoods with limited green space.
Integrate into existing processes
» Embea nature-frienaiy aesign into routine park and city work to
reach families without new costs.
Reach underrepresented families with trusted partners
Partner with
trusted
hubs
like
the
Multicultural
Family
Center.
amain staff to
ask
for input
and
share
nature -play
resources.
Page 565 of 750
"What if we brought loose parts—pinecones, microscopes —to
parking lots? Because I think it's changing that mindset. Nature is
literally everywhere."
IDEAS � ASPIRATIONS
Demystify + destigmatize
Live -stream park tours and build detailed on -site guides. Which
paths are best for strollers/wheelchairs? Best spots to stop for
snacks? Where are kid -friendly features?
Child -centered feedback
Get more input from teens + kids most adults don't know what
they truly want. Use sticker boards with image prompts and draw -
and -tell methods to capture their preferences and interests.
Page 567 of 750
Ile
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ie
Aw
w.i•' ,. ,� i f .V F '�r^ :�1,"Y2S"t7: tr, • s y".,T . n� . , y� ?;a '.,� ..�.3 „ r.... {
♦•�- i - ,' - _ - - ! . � � I '* fr~'b=yC'- __ . � .. _tom - • �wLi�:., Y - r ?i.!'. r i!�® Y _ r � :� _ ti/��..t.
"The universal language ispictures. Everyone
-
understands it. By incorporating images,
r
.� children can communicate their needs.
IDEAS 0 ASPIRATIONS
Better connect resources to parents —and each other
Increase awareness and promotion of offerings and resources.
(Hills &Dales can train staff and families on designing truly
inclusive activities and tactful ways to assist caregivers when a
child with a disability needs extra support.)
Create stormwater "play bowls" and use natural landscape
They naturally contain little explorers, give parents 360°
sightlines, and keep kids safely away from road traffic.
it
Page 569 of 750
GU9000E
NATVQE-
EUERYWHERE
HOW CAN I HELP?
Ways to Participate and Giv
Inp
HOW CAN I HELP?
Help draft Dubuque's Children's Outdoor
of Rights (COBOR).
Bill
Sign on to the COBOR, share it, and help us
lead it to adoption.
Focus on kids 0-6 in your upcoming activities,
programming, and planning.
Take kids 0-6 outside, explore, and play!
See Austin, Baltimore, SF COBORs.
Page 571 of 750
YOUR C
R INPUT
What outdoor Dubuque experiences should
every child have the right to?
• Play
• Grow �
• Explore _
• Understand
• Feel 9
Harvest
What activities are unique to our community?
it
Page 572 of 750
t
DUBUOUE
NATUAt
EUERYWHERE
THANK M
0;1"
u�
w
r
OUBUOUE '
kEUERVW14ERE
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\ in �\•. � �'. t � ` D
o v e m b e r 1i=7 r 20
ju
- 0 / AM-
HOW NATURE BENEFITS CHILDREN
T Physical activity
Eye health
Vitamin D
Fetal growth
Birth weights
Stress
Anger
Aggression
T Academic performance
T Creativity
T Focus +attention
T Impulse control
T Learning engagement
T Learning enthusiasm
ADHD symptoms
f, Disruptive behaviors
' Social skills
' Self-esteem
Environmental
stewardship
Connection to people and
nature
Relationship skills
Satisfaction with life
See research and one -papers
age 575—of 750
,pft
&en aged 0-6
i.ay by:
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RECENT ACTIVITIES
• Site visit from the Children and Nature Network and the National
League of Cities.
JUL-SEP • Focus groups and community engagemen ,data collection and
review, community and equity mapping, parents' survey.
mmmarizing findings, quotes, themes, maps, and
presentations of community engagement.
SEP-NOV • Drafted Vision and Implementation Plai. based on engagement.
• Developed and engaged the community in Dubuque's
Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights.
Page 577 of 750
1 IB
A Note on Our Evolving Work
Z`t r
A Happier, Healthier,
More Hopeful Dubuque
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By the Numbers: The Opportunity in Our Own Backyard
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_ What's Inside: Vision & Implementation
A Happier, Healthier, More Hope
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Initial fnrPlemenrerian Prajerrs
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NE T STEPS �
TODAY Request City Council consideration of passage of the
Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR).
• Vision and implementation plan finalized.
DEC-FEB Working groups created and beginning to meet.
• Working groups focus on goals and implementation projects
ONGOING. in the vision and Implementation Plan.
Fundraising and grants for the ongoing work of Dubuque
Nature Everywhere.
Page 579 of 750
WHAT'S A COBOR70
• Outdoor experience. every child has a right to.
Public -facing symbol of the overarching goals and
aspirations acity/state has for its children's
outdoor experiences.
• Messaging tool that raises awareness around the
importance of children's connection to nature.
it
Page 580 of 750
Dubuque Children's
OUTDOOR.
8iLL of k0614T5
ALL CHILDREN IN DUBUQUE HAVE THE RIGHT TO:
Safely explore vibrant neighborhoods,
parks, and school yards.
Play in the mud and sand, and get dirty.
Splash in clean creeks and rivers.
Climb a tree and scale a rock.
Hike or bike a trail.
Watch bugs, birds, and other wildlife as they crawl,
fly, hop, and transform across all four seasons.
Discover native plants and wildlife.
Plant a seed and watch it grow.
Sit quietly in nature.
ou[uou[
Catch a fish. IVATVAE-
EY[NVMNENE
Page 581 of 750
OUBUOUE
NATUAt
EVERYWHERE
HOW CAN
Engage
in the
HELP?
Implementatio^
13ionn
NOW CAN I HELP7
Adopt the Dubuque's Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights
(CO BO R) 0
Give feedback on our Vision and Implementation Plan.
Join a working group.
Focus on kids 0-6, and nature -based play, in your
upcoming activities, programming, and planning.
Take kids 0-6 outside to explore and play!
Page 583 of 750
OUeUOUE
NAT(/)Zt-
EUERYWHERE
THANK M
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