New Water Quality Project to Benefit Central Iowa Watersheds

A new partnership project is set to accelerate water quality improvements in ⁢central Iowa, focusing on reducing nitrate runoff into local rivers‍ and streams. The initiative, backed by over $244,100 from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, will build upon previous conservation efforts and utilize innovative approaches to protect vital waterways.

Addressing ‍water ‍Quality Concerns Through Collaboration

Iowa Secretary of ‍Agriculture Mike naig highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “This partnership project is a great example of how we can bring farmers, landowners and‍ public and private partners together to accelerate this important work and be part of the solution.” The project aims to improve water quality not only for communities within the watershed but also for those downstream,including the Des Moines metro area.

The core strategy involves implementing proven conservation practices at the edge of agricultural fields. These ‍practices act as natural filters,⁤ capturing ⁤nitrates from runoff before ‍thay can pollute waterways. Key practices include:

Bioreactors: Underground trenches filled with woodchips ⁤that remove nitrates from tile drainage water.
Saturated Buffers: Areas planted with vegetation alongside streams and rivers that filter runoff as it flows through.
Oxbows: Restored bends in ⁣rivers that provide natural ⁣filtration ⁤and habitat.
Cover Crops: Plants grown between cash crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion and nutrient loss.

Building on Past Success with an Efficient approach

This project isn’t starting from scratch. ⁣Previous implementation efforts in the watershed have already resulted in the construction of 20 saturated buffers and bioreactors, alongside 12 oxbow restorations. This ⁢new initiative will expand on this foundation, prioritizing these effective edge-of-field practices.

To maximize efficiency and impact, the project will employ a ‍”Batch and Build” model. This involves grouping ⁣multiple conservation projects together for streamlined construction,reducing costs and accelerating implementation.

“This project will showcase modern approaches to water quality improvements‍ by applying conservation practices with ⁤the help of local landowners and communities,” explained Jeremy Gustafson, a Boone County farmer and chair of ⁤the Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District. His involvement underscores the commitment of local agricultural communities to environmental stewardship.

A multi-Partner Effort for Long-Term Impact

The Iowa Department of agriculture and Land Stewardship is leading the financial investment, but the project benefits from a broad coalition ⁢of partners. These include:

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service
iowa Department of Natural⁤ Resources
⁢ Polk County Public Works
‍ The Nature Conservancy
* Additional ⁤partnerships currently in progress

This diverse partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to improving water quality and protecting Iowa’s natural resources.

Get Involved: Supporting Water Quality in Central Iowa

Farmers and landowners in the‍ project ‍area interested in participating are encouraged to reach out. Information and enrollment opportunities are available through the Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District, located in the Boone County USDA Service Center.

Contact:

Justin Grieff
Project Coordinator
justin.grieff@ia.nacdnet.net