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.
Unexpected Friends: Bugs Are Not Invading Your Home
This time of year we seem to notice more bugs indoors. In this article we discuss accurate sources of information about bugs, common misconceptions, and bugs you may see in your home this time of year.
Five Stages of Watershed Awareness
October is Watershed Awareness Month, by proclamation of Story County Conservation Board and city councils in Ames, Nevada, and Gilbert. Okay, so what exactly do we want people to be aware of?
How to Have a Delightful Halloween Hike
While most people will be putting up lights and hoarding candy for Halloween, you can hit the trails to see some of the most interesting and spooky beings found naturally, right here in Iowa! Here we compile all-things-October to give you the best time to hike, where to find fairy fires and ghostly plants, and tips to spotting curious birds this autumn.