By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Water Quality Initiative (WQI) is expanding into a new phase in Howard and Winneshiek Counties, with a focus on edge-of-field conservation practices such as saturated buffers, bioreactors, and wetlands. These practices help filter water and remove nutrients before they enter waterways.
The WQI is a science and technology-based approach to protecting and improving water quality in Iowa. It brings together both point sources, such as municipal wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, and nonpoint sources, including farm fields and urban stormwater runoff.
The next phase of the WQI in Howard and Winneshiek Counties will focus on edge-of-field practices, which are installed at the edge of a field where water flows off. These practices can help reduce nutrient runoff and improve water quality.
Saturated buffers are areas of vegetation that are planted next to waterways. They filter water and remove nutrients as it flows through. Bioreactors are underground structures that contain materials that help to remove nutrients from water. Wetlands are natural areas that are saturated with water. They can help to filter water and remove nutrients, as well as provide habitat for wildlife.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is investing approximately $484,375 in the next phase of the WQI in Howard and Winneshiek Counties. Partners for the project include the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Iowa Coldwater Conservatory, Iowa Soybean Association, Turkey River Pheasants Forever, Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Howard County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Winneshiek County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Farmers and landowners in Howard and Winneshiek Counties who are interested in participating in the WQI can contact their local NRCS office.
Benefits of edge-of-field practices
Edge-of-field practices can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Reducing nutrient runoff
- Improving water quality
- Protecting waterways and wetlands
- Providing habitat for wildlife
- Enhancing the beauty of the landscape
How to get involved in the WQI
If you are a farmer or landowner in Howard or Winneshiek Counties and are interested in participating in the WQI, you can contact your local NRCS office. NRCS staff can help you to assess your needs and develop a conservation plan that includes edge-of-field practices. They can also provide financial assistance to help you implement these practices.
The Iowa Water Quality Initiative is a valuable program that is helping to protect and improve water quality in Iowa. The new phase of the WQI in Howard and Winneshiek Counties will focus on edge-of-field conservation practices, which can provide a number of benefits to farmers, landowners, and the environment.
Photo Credit: istock-dorin-s
Categories: Iowa, General