By Andi Anderson
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship expects a record year in the construction of water quality wetlands. Historically, Iowa has constructed a few wetlands per year, totaling 134.
This year, one water quality wetland is complete, five are under construction, and six are in the bidding process. An additional 17 projects are expected to be offered for bid before year-end, pending permit and easement completion.
These 29 sites will add approximately 207 acres of wetlands and reduce nutrients across more than 23,600 acres of farmland, with a total state investment estimated at $16.7 million.
“By adding more water quality wetlands to the state’s landscape, we get the benefit of both improved water quality as well as more habitat for wildlife. With the help of dedicated funding, engaged partners, such as Ducks Unlimited, and strong interest from landowners, we are accelerating this important work,” said Secretary Naig. “I want to thank all the farmers and landowners who have said yes to one of these highly effective wetland projects. I would encourage anyone interested in exploring a project on their land to reach out about getting the conversation started.”
Water quality wetlands are strategically placed to intercept cropland runoff and reduce downstream nutrients. These wetlands filter water, reducing nitrogen before it reaches rivers, lakes, and streams.
Research and monitoring by Iowa State University show that strategically sited and designed water quality wetlands can remove up to 90 percent of nitrates from cropland drainage waters, providing a high return on investment.
The current projects, plus the 17 anticipated sites, are spread across 18 Iowa counties. One wetland is planned for each of Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Cerro Gordo, Emmet, Greene, Grundy, Guthrie, Jasper, Pocahontas, Sac, and Wright counties.
Two wetlands are planned for Clay, Palo Alto, Story, and Worth counties. Four wetlands will be built in Kossuth County, and five in Calhoun County. A map of constructed, under-construction, and anticipated wetlands is available here.
Landowner interest remains strong, with 42 more sites in preliminary design stages and another 64 in various stages of viability assessment. Landowners interested in constructing a wetland should contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District at their county USDA Service Center.
With continued dedication and collaboration, Iowa is set to make significant strides in water quality and environmental conservation through the construction of these vital wetlands.
Photo Credit: pexels-ron-lach
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture