March 17, 2026

Nature Record Assessment: Why is the Trump Administration Hiding the Ball?

This first-of-its-kind assessment of the health of nature in the United States was cancelled by the Trump White House. The researchers then went ahead and compiled it on their own.

By Howard A. Learner, Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director

The independent release of The Nature Record is a clear reminder of what’s at stake here in the Midwest. Our rivers, wetlands, and freshwater ecosystems, the backbone of this region’s economy and communities, are increasingly overstressed and under-protected. Their findings are clear: degraded ecosystems, declining species, and mounting threats to clean water.

The report also highlights real “bright spots” where restoration and good policy are working! Some highlights:

We’re a Freshwater Powerhouse

The Midwest has one of the most important freshwater systems in the world.

• We’re home to the Great Lakes, major rivers like the Mississippi, and extensive wetlands.
• Providing drinking water for millions of people and supports valuable ecosystems.
• Offering national leadership in freshwater protection tools, restoration, and technological innovation.

Why it matters: Healthy freshwater systems are essential for public health, biodiversity, and economic stability nationwide. Protecting the Midwest’s waters protects America’s water future.

High-Value Conservation Lands and Wise Management Can Make a Difference.

The Midwest’s farms and landscapes can be a strength if managed well.

• Policies to protect rural lands must emphasize healthy soil, clean water, and pollinator protections.
• Solid conservation practices can improve productivity while restoring ecosystems.

Why it matters: When Midwest landscapes thrive, food security, biodiversity and ecology, rural economies, and national supply chains are more resilient.

Nature‑Based Climate Resilience

Midwest ecosystems can help alleviate climate change challenges.

• More protected wetlands and floodplains can help manage heavier rainfall and flooding.
• More green spaces cool cities and improve community health
• Nature-based solutions can offer cost‑effective protection alongside built infrastructure

Why it matters: Policies that protect nature can strengthen community resilience while lowering long‑term disaster costs.

Strong Connections Between People and Place

The Midwest’s relationship with nature runs deep.

• We have a strong tradition of land stewardship, outdoor recreation, and conservation.
• Urban, suburban and rural communities alike benefit from healthy ecosystems.
• Broad public support creates momentum for action.

Why it matters: Conservation succeeds when people value and experience nature in their daily lives.

Bottom line

The health of the Midwest’s natural resources, from the Mississippi River to the Great Lakes, and to our prairie rivers, depends on decisions grounded in evidence, not politics. This fact‑based assessment deserves to be seen. The opportunity for public comment is open until May 30th, and the final version of The Nature Record is scheduled to be published in Fall 2027.

You can submit comments here. Go for it!

Preserving nature is supported by Americans of all political stripes, and it shouldn’t be a political football. It’s good to see The Nature Record moving forward. It’s just wrong for the Trump administration to try to hide this ball.