Clear Laker Ron is a member of the Clear Lake Earth Day Committee

Ron Andrews graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology in 1967. After a short temporary stint with the USFWS, Ron began working for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), formerly the Iowa Conservation Commission, as their Furbearer Resource Specialist. During Ron’s tenure, he spearheaded several major studies, including “Movements and Mortality Studies of Red Fox, Coyote and Sheep Interactions in Southern Iowa,” “Raccoon Population Dynamics in an Exploited Raccoon Population,” “Impacts of Nest of Nest Predators on Upland Nesting Waterfowl and Nongame,” “River Otter Restoration and Monitoring,” “Pioneer Study on the Use of Nesting Boxes Places on Interstate Signs by American Kestrels,” “Restraining Trap Testing of Iowa Raccoon” and “Trumpeter Swan Restoration in Iowa.” Several scientific and popular publications were authored and co-authored by Andrews, including “Wildlife Monograph No. 49” and a popular book on “The Red Fox in Iowa.”

Ron was with the Iowa DNR for 43 years. In addition to being involved with the aforementioned wildlife projects, he dealt with plenty of controversial topics related to furharvest regulations during years when furs were worth a lot.

Ron found it interesting that often times hunters, trappers (the consumers of the resource) were in conflict with the bird waters and other wildlife watchers (the non-consumers of the resource). His slogan for those situations was that “Habitat is the Connecting Link” between groups. Don’t quibble about petty things but focus on securing, protecting, managing wildlife habitat and both the consumptive and non-game species will all reap benefits from the results.

He helped the DNR establish two new regulated harvest seasons — one on River Otters and one on Bobcats. Ron was the contact person who attempted to determine the validity of the many reported Mountain Lion sightings in the state.

Ron always maintained a positive attitude and great sense of humor with work. He especially liked corny jokes and sayings. For example, Ron helped come up with catchy slogans for otter and trumpeter swan restoration.

  • “They Otter be in Iowa”
  • “Trumpeting the Cause for Wetland”
  • “Cat’n around for Conservation” (Mountain Lions)
  • “Whooping it up in the Wetlands” (Cranes)

Check out the “Return of the Trumpeters” documentary currently airing on Iowa PBS or stream online.

Ron has a passion for the resource and a “can-do, never give up attitude.” Combined with grit, perseverance and a true heart tat led to so many successes with the public and natural resources. And whenever things got tricky with work — and perhaps Ron go in “hot-water” a time or two — his saying was “the crazier, the better!”

Ron indicated that he would not have been able to accomplish all the things he did without the support of his wife, Martha, son, Tony, and his family, and his daughter, Tracy, and her family. He also said that he is indebted to the overwhelming support of a diverse and passionate group of outdoor enthusiasts. Iowa DNR personnel, Dave Hoffman and Vince Evelsizer and man other in-state and out-of-state professionals helped him as well.

Ron, a heartfelt thank you for your unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions throughout your career. Your leadership, expertise and positive spirit have left a lasting impact on our state — on behalf of all of us with TWS, you deserve this!