CENTERVILLE – Iowans interested in the results of a DNR study to improve water quality in the Chariton River can view a presentation on the Iowa DNR’s YouTube channel.
Chariton River is on the state’s list of impaired waters for high levels of bacteria in 15 stream segments of the river. The current study, or DNR water quality improvement plan, shows how these problems are caused by a wide variety of sources in the watershed (the area of land that drains to the river). The problems impact recreation on the streams and river.
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.
The presentation is available now at youtube.com/iowadnr through Oct. 26. The full document can be downloaded on the Iowa DNR’s website at the following: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environment/WaterQuality/WatershedImprovement/WatershedResearchData/WaterImprovementPlans/PublicMeetingsPlans.aspx.
Public comments on the plan must be submitted by Oct. 26 to the following:
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.