Meet Our Board: Doug Pooch
Bringing the Voice of Agriculture to Conservation
A Lifetime Rooted in Iowa’s Soil, Streams, and Community
This week, we’re proud to introduce our newly elected Iowa Division Board Member, National Director, and Des Moines Chapter President!
With a lifetime of production agriculture experience and an "all-in" dedication to the Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA), he is on a mission to ensure the voices of farmers and conservationists work hand-in-hand to protect Iowa’s natural resources.
Here is a look at his incredible story:
Growing Up Outdoors
His connection to the League runs deep. His earliest memory of the IWLA is accompanying his dad to the trap shooting range at the Oakdale Chapter in Renwick, in northern Iowa.
This was just down the road from his family’s Wright County farm, where he was lucky to grow up with a 10-acre man-made pond, a running creek, and the Boone River winding straight through their pastures. He and his siblings spent their childhood completely outdoors—fishing in the pond, wading in the creek, and searching for clams in the river.
Later, his grandfather Leonard—a farmer and the Humboldt County Conservation Director—taught him the vital mechanics of land stewardship. From Leonard, he learned how to control wind and water erosion in the fields, how to properly fertilize crops, and how to rotate pastures sustainably for hogs, sheep, cattle, and dairy cows.
A 50-Year Legacy in Agriculture
After spending four years at Iowa State University studying Agricultural Education, he transitioned into the seed business. This launched a distinguished 50-year career working with some of the biggest, baddest, and best seed companies in the world.
In 2018, his connection to the League came full circle when his son, John, was married at the Des Moines Chapter House. Being back at the chapter house rekindled his lifelong passion for combining agriculture and conservation, prompting him to officially join.
True to his nature, when he joins something, he goes completely all-in:
- 2019: Elected to the Des Moines Chapter Board as Secretary
- 2021: Elected Chapter President (a role he proudly holds today)
- Spring 2026: Elected to the Iowa Division Board and named National Director
Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide
While the Des Moines Chapter is highly urban, he has worked hard to keep it connected to its agricultural roots. Under his leadership, the chapter has strengthened its tradition of Farmer Appreciation Night.
During this special event, the chapter invites local farmers who have cooperated in hunting, fishing, and conservation efforts to attend as guests. It serves as a powerful way to promote and celebrate farmers who are doing the right things for our water, wildlife, woodlands, and open spaces.
As National Director, his ultimate goal is to bring the voice of Farmers and Agriculture to the table alongside the diverse experiences of all other members. Together, we make a difference!
Spotlight on Service: Thank You, Doug Pooch!
The Hands-On Heart of the Des Moines Chapter
A strong chapter relies on incredible leadership, but it truly thrives because of the hands-on dedication of our volunteer members. Along with celebrating our board leadership, we want to extend a massive thank you to Doug Pooch, an amazing volunteer who dedicates countless hours to the physical structure of the Des Moines Chapter House!
Keeping an active chapter facility beautiful, safe, and sustainable takes an immense amount of behind-the-scenes care. By working closely with the Des Moines Chapter staff to maintain and improve our physical facilities, Doug's tireless hard work ensures our chapter remains welcoming and strong for generations to come.
Thank you, Doug, for being the hands-on force behind our mission!
Join the conversation, see upcoming events, and find out how you can get plugged in on our Iowa Ikes Facebook Group!
This is the story of an Iowa Ike. And this is the heart of our conservation community.
Our story is a reminder that conservation is built from the ground up—through protecting our land and waters, celebrating the farmers who steward the soil, and honoring the dedicated volunteers who maintain the places we gather.
Thank you for your continued membership and support of the Iowa Division of the Izaak Walton League of America!