Clean Water
We work to improve water quality in rivers and lakes found in Iowa. We accomplish this work through robust education, monitoring, and by partnering with both private landowners and local government.
Here is what we’re up to now:
Water Monitoring in Story County
Water quality in most creeks and lakes in Story County is not tested by state agencies, so in 2020, we worked with 9 partner organizations to plan for how we could sustain a monitoring program at the local level. We continue to support the effort by collecting samples, organizing volunteer events, and making sense of the data.
Creek Clean Ups
So far, we have helped organize six volunteer events that removed over 12,700 pounds of trash from Ioway Creek, the Skunk River, and other streams in central Iowa. Depending on the weather, we may be walking, wading, or paddling canoes, but it’s always a good time!
Educational Videos
FAQ
What’s a watershed? Confused about water quality? Here’s an FAQ with links to some of our most accessible resources.
Past Projects
Past projects have focused on the Ioway Creek and Skunk River watersheds in Story, Boone, and Hamilton counties.
Conservation Connection Blog
A big part of our work is telling engaging stories to help explain the science and policy behind the environmental issues we work on. Here are three of our latest posts from the Conservation Connect Blog.
Birds from Erv
Let’s raise our binoculars in memory of Erv Klaas, Prairie Rivers of Iowa board member, ornithologist, and conservation leader! Here are six birds (plus one plant and two insects) that remind me of his life and legacy.
How Big is the Elephant in the Room?
Are Iowa’s water quality woes being driven by concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs)? I analyzed correlations between livestock density and five water quality metrics across 60 watersheds in Iowa. The results suggest that manure from feedlots has less influence on E. coli bacteria but more influence on nitrate than is often assumed.
South Skunk River Cleanup – Spring 2024
During a chilly morning of paddling, 16 volunteers removed 2100 pounds of trash from the South Skunk River.