DES MOINES, IA (April 18, 2025) – ICON Water Trails Executive Director, Stephanie Oppel provided the following statement today regarding the death of Jay Byers, founding Central Iowa Water Trails board member:

“ICON Water Trails is incredibly saddened by the loss of Jay Byers. We, like so many in our region, benefited from Jay’s dedication, tenacity, and vision. His leadership played a fundamental role in developing Central Iowa Water Trails, the transformative initiative that is now ICON. We wish his family, as well as the Simpson College community, our sincerest condolences. Jay left an indelible mark on us all, and it is our hope that his vibrancy, generosity, and service will be reflected in the legacy of ICON Water Trails.”

Byers served on the Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Water Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee from 2015-2018. He then served on the Central Iowa Water Trails Executive Committee and Board of Directors from 2019-2021.

About ICON Water Trails

ICON Water Trails is a regionally inclusive recreational confluence connecting culture, conservation, and adventure by empowering our waterways. When complete, ICON will connect 50+ access points across 150 miles of rivers and creeks in Central Iowa.  This transformational initiative represents a new commitment to water safety and conservation as well as a concerted effort to drive economic development, visitor attraction, and workforce retention.