Programs

Since 1996, Preservation Iowa has honored outstanding preservation achievements across the state through Preservation at Its Best Awards. Each year, the program highlights exemplary projects that demonstrate excellence in protecting and revitalizing Iowa’s historic resources. Nominations are typically solicited during the winter months, with submissions due in early spring. Awards have been presented in recent years in June as part of the statewide Preserve Iowa Summit. Categories recognize excellence in residential, commercial, public, sustainability, adaptive use, and rural preservation. Additional special awards highlight exceptional community collaboration and honor individual preservationists whose dedication has made a lasting impact.

Since 1995, Preservation Iowa has drawn attention to significant historic buildings and other historic resources at risk of being lost through our annual Iowa’s Most Endangered Properties list. Over the years, Preservation Iowa has designated over 200 commercial buildings, houses, churches, landscapes, and archaeological sites in 69 Iowa counties. Many significant properties have been identified through this initiative, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by historic resources across the state. Each fall, Preservation Iowa issues a call for nominations. The list is then announced on our Facebook page, featured on our website, and shared with media outlets statewide. By spotlighting these endangered places, Preservation Iowa aims to raise public awareness, attract needed resources, and encourage meaningful action to save and rehabilitate Iowa’s historic resources.