Water Quality: Axios Digs Deep
Today (September 9), Axios did a deep dive on central Iowa’s nitrate problem, comparing outcomes to neighboring state Minnesota, which has much stronger water quality laws. You can read the entire article here. Here are the highlights:
- Iowa’s nitrate levels regularly exceed 5 mg/L for decades; Minnsota’s average is at or below 3 mg/L.
- Federal mandates require less than 10 mg/L, but public health agencies say 5 mg/L is too high.
- Minnesota requires buffer strips, restricts fall fertilizer application, and strict permitting for large animal operations. Iowa’s nitrate reduction plan includes these suggestions, but it is voluntary.
- Iowa has the largest number of acres that are tile drained in the country, a process that can quickly move nitrates to water sources.
LWVIA has included a stronger water quality statement in its 2026 legislative priorities, so the information in this article can help you with your messaging to state and federal lawmakers.
- Prioritizing, protecting and improving Iowa water quality and ensuring its sustainable management.
- Enact policies that safeguard clean water and address challenges of health risks, pollution, overuse and climate change.