Conservation Connection
The Water (Monitoring) is Wide
Who is doing water monitoring in Iowa and where do you find that data? I’m sure this is a partial list, but the Iowa Water Summit has helped us get a clearer picture.
Rebugging our Community
Insect populations have dropped drastically over the last few decades. Bugs are the building blocks of our environment. They provide many benefits such as beautiful flowers, food sources, soil aeration, and more. We can help these little creatures flourish by rebugging our community.
Decision Guide for Undecided Boaters
It should go without saying that there are decisions on the ballot that will affect the environment, but if you need a break from election news and commentary, read this Undecided Boater Guide for some low-stakes environmental education and take an opportunity to lower your stress levels by getting out into nature!
Iowa’s Native Milkweed Species
Milkweed are important! Not only do they provide beautiful flowers, but they are the host plant of Monarch Butterflies. Iowa has 18 native species of Milkweed.
The Legacy of the IOWATER Program
The IOWATER volunteer stream monitoring program was ended years ago but its legacy of citizen science and watershed education is alive and well. This article is an invitation to the upcoming Iowa Water Summit, a reflection on this year’s river cleanup with Iowa Project A.W.A.R.E., and a cautionary tale about Lake Darling.
Say No to Neonics: What They Are and Why We Should Care
Neonicotinoid pesticides are detrimental to pollinator health. If you have never heard of Neonics, and aren’t sure why you should care; I urge you to keep reading.
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.