The Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA), one of the oldest and best-known environmental protection organizations in the United States, was founded in 1922 in Chicago. The mission of its original activists was the conservation of regional fish habitats. The organization’s namesake is Izaak Walton (1593-1683), one of the first fly fishermen and author of The Compleat Angler (1653). The IWLA quickly gained momentum and grew into a large movement, with over 100,000 members. Despite a decrease in total numbers today, the supporters of this grassroots network still run over 250 chapters and continue to engage in environmental protection efforts nationwide. Its mission has also expanded to include the improvement of outdoor recreation opportunities for American citizens.
- Stanwood, Paul G. Izaak Walton. New York: Twayne, 1998.