Working with a coalition of stakeholders, we are enacting a broad spectrum of urban low impact development and agricultural best management practices. Protecting and enhancing water quality for our area lakes will ensure they remain an economic and recreational focal point for Northwest Iowa. Our communities are incorporating green infrastructure into most new development and major renovations, and our agricultural landowners are working to ensure the water leaving their fields is carrying as little sediment and excess nutrients as possible.
For assistance on urban practices, click here.
For assistance on rural practices, click here.
Practices implemented so far:
- Over 200 urban low impact development structures installed since 1992.
- Over 10,000 feet of shoreline currently being restored to a native shortgrass prairie.
- Over 500 acres of wetlands and 2000 acres of prairie restored thorough the conservation reserve program.
Project Partners
- Financial Contributions
- Landowner contributions—$4.8 million
- Partner matches—Over $37 million
- Resulting Reductions
- 59,169 tons of sediment
- 32,872 pounds of phosphorous
- Economic Impacts
- Tourism centered around the lakes generates over $300 million annually.
