Now on display at the Eastern Iowa Airport is Wings2Water’s newest “Water Warrior” Rod
Marlatt, who served as the Executive Director of the Fayette County Conservation Board for more than 40 years and
continues to raise awareness of local, statewide, and national conservation and water quality issues.
Over the course of his tenure in Fayette County alone, Marlatt took the county from 147 acres to more than 3,000
acres set aside for conservation and water quality. Now in retirement, he continues to serve on multiple boards,
maintain involvement in projects he launched, and champion initiatives that help communities better understand
the importance of preserving our land, water, and wildlife.
“Rod’s lifelong passion for conservation and water quality is inspiring to all of us at Wings2Water,” said Rebekah
Jones, Wings2Water Board President. “He embodies the spirit of our mission and conservation altogether, and we’re
delighted to share more about his story and his impact in our local communities.”
Throughout his work to protect natural resources in northeast Iowa, Marlatt maintains a collaborative approach and
emphasis on community, one in which everyone is able to contribute to water quality improvements and resilience.
“There’s always a role for everybody, if nothing else, to just advocate for water quality and show up and be vocal that
it is important,” Marlatt said. “It is the thread that keeps us all together as a community.”
As part of the Water Warrior recognition, Marlatt is featured on custom signage throughout the Eastern Iowa Airport
for thousands of travelers and visitors to see one of Iowa’s conservation and water quality leaders. Marlatt is also
being highlighted across Wings2Water’s digital platforms and in this feature video.
“The impact Rod has made in northeast Iowa over the past forty-plus decades is truly a testament to his dedication
and love for our land and water,” said Tara Wachendorf, GreenState Credit Union VP/Community Relations Director.
“It’s our pleasure to support uplifting his voice in hopes that his story will connect with more Iowa residents and
travelers, just like it has resonated with the GreenState team.”
Interested in nominating a Water Warrior? Nominations taken here: https://www.wings2water.org/water-warrior/
Thank you to GreenState Credit Union for sponsoring the Water Warrior program: https://www.greenstate.org/