Iowa DNR Little Sioux River Visitor Trends

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources needed information about recreation use to guide water trail planning along the Little Sioux River. Radbridge used mobile location data to study a 200-mile corridor across six counties. We examined visit timing, repeat use, visitor origins, and travel distances to understand how river segments and access sites serve surrounding communities.

The findings inform access improvements and discussions with county conservation boards and local partners. According to Iowa DNR, the City of Spencer used the analysis to help secure a $250,000 grant for improvements at Stolley Park and West Leach North. A follow-up online survey lets people identify river segments, describe access and safety concerns, and attach comments to places on a map. The survey adds direct feedback to the Little Sioux River and Inkpaduta Canoe Trail planning process.