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.
Water quality results for 2023 in Story County
Our annual report for the 2023 water monitoring season in Story County is now available, along with a summary of key findings. Another drought year brought high E. coli and low dissolved oxygen, but some encouraging trends.
Paddling While Impaired
Iowa’s draft 2024 Impaired Waters List is up for public comment. If you are wondering where to find cleaner lakes and rivers for recreation, we have an interactive map to help you, as well as some observations on this latest assessment.
Green Stuff in the Skunk River
No it’s not an early St. Patrick’s Day celebration! That strange color in the South Skunk River is probably a blue-green algae bloom, stimulated by unseasonably warm weather. If you see water like this, be cautious, they can produce toxins.