The bill establishes that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and county conservation boards have the same rights and obligations as private landowners regarding the erection and maintenance of partition fences. This includes the authority to manage costs associated with these activities under Iowa's fence law. Specifically, the bill introduces new sections that clarify the responsibilities of these entities when managing tracts of land, ensuring they can participate in the construction and upkeep of partition fences similarly to private landowners.

Additionally, the bill amends existing provisions to require that both the complaining landowner and the DNR or county conservation board deposit sufficient funds with fence viewers to cover their respective portions of costs and fees associated with fence maintenance. It also allows the DNR to finance its contributions from the open spaces account of the Iowa Resources Enhancement and Protection Fund, while county conservation boards can use funds from their respective accounts. This legislative change aims to streamline the process of managing partition fences and ensure equitable financial responsibilities among landowners and government entities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 359A.4, 455A.19, 359A.3