"We've always been impressed with DU and how effective they are with using the money given to them to improve the environment and habitat. DU gets it done like they say they will," said Rick Young, YFF president.

The foundation has been a supporter of DU for more than a decade, according to an Outdoor Wire news release.

The 330-acre Zirbel Slough Wildlife Management Area is in need of new renovations to its wetland complex. DU, the Cerro-Gordo County Conservation Board and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources plan to build and install a permanent pumping station, water control structure and fish barrier.

"Like many shallow lakes and large marshes in north-central Iowa, the waterfowl and migratory bird use at Zirbel Slough has declined significantly due to poor habitat conditions and a recent proliferation of exotic rough fish," said Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist in Iowa. "We're deeply grateful for the Young family's continued support over the past decade. We look forward to continuing this strong conservation partnership with them to ensure that projects like Zirbel Slough are possible for many years to come."