IOWA CITY – Iowans interested in the results of a DNR study to improve water quality in the Iowa River and its tributaries can attend one of three meetings across the basin. Citizens are encouraged to bring their questions and ideas to improve the river to the meeting for discussion.
Multiple segments of the Iowa River and many of its tributaries are on the state’s list of impaired waters for high levels of indicator bacteria. The current study, or DNR water quality improvement plan, shows where the bacteria comes from and how these problems can be addressed.
The plan explores the amounts and sources of bacteria entering the river system and offers potential solutions to reduce those levels and work toward fixing the problem. The document is designed as a guide for local resource agencies, partners, stakeholders and residents to improve the river system. Staff from the DNR’s Watershed Improvement Program will be on hand to answer questions.
The meetings will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the following dates and locations:
- Sept. 20, Eldora Public Library, 1202 10th St., Eldora
- Sept. 26, Marshalltown Public Library, 105 W. Boone St., Marshalltown
- Oct. 4, Coralville Public Library, Schwab Auditorium, 1401 5th St., Coralville
Those not able to attend the public meeting can receive more information at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environment/WaterQuality/WatershedImprovement/WatershedResearchData/WaterImprovementPlans/PublicMeetingsPlans.aspx and submit comments on the plan by Oct. 23 via:
E-mail: jeff.berckes@dnr.iowa.gov
Mail: Jeff Berckes, care of Iowa DNR, Wallace State Office Building,
502 E. Ninth St. Des Moines, Iowa 50319
After gathering Iowans’ comments, the DNR will forward the final plan, also called by its technical name of Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for approval.